Podcasts about John Bunyan

Psalm 88,O Lord, God of my salvation, I cry out day and night before you.2 Let my prayer come before you; incline your ear to my cry!3 For my soul is full of troubles, and my life draws near to Sheol.4 I am counted among those who go down to the pit; I am a man who has no strength,5 like one set loose among the dead, like the slain that lie in the grave,like those whom you remember no more, for they are cut off from your hand.6 You have put me in the depths of the pit, in the regions dark and deep.7 Your wrath lies heavy upon me, and you overwhelm me with all your waves. Selah8 You have caused my companions to shun me; you have made me a horror to them.I am shut in so that I cannot escape;9 my eye grows dim through sorrow.Every day I call upon you, O Lord; I spread out my hands to you.10 Do you work wonders for the dead? Do the departed rise up to praise you? Selah11 Is your steadfast love declared in the grave, or your faithfulness in Abaddon?12 Are your wonders known in the darkness, or your righteousness in the land of forgetfulness?13 But I, O Lord, cry to you; in the morning my prayer comes before you.14 O Lord, why do you cast my soul away? Why do you hide your face from me?15 Afflicted and close to death from my youth up, I suffer your terrors; I am helpless.16 Your wrath has swept over me; your dreadful assaults destroy me.17 They surround me like a flood all day long; they close in on me together.18 You have caused my beloved and my friend to shun me; my companions have become darkness.Psalm 88 is similar to many other psalms in that first, it's a prayer, and second, it's a lament — the psalmist is struggling. We see this often in the psalms. But Psalm 88 is dissimilar to other psalms — or really, it's unlike any other psalm in that it has no resolution. Other psalms will feature moments of disorientation and darkness, but by the last verse, they spring forward, they bounce back, they recite hope. But that's not the case in Psalm 88. The very last verse, where we're expecting the light to break through, says, verse 18:“You have caused my beloved and my friend to shun me; my companions have become darkness.” We can see it there on the page in verse 18. Darkness literally gets the last word in Psalm 88, which is why this psalm has been called “the saddest psalm of the Psalter.”It's uncomfortable to read; it's uncomfortable to preach; it's uncomfortable to listen to, but here we are this morning, and I want to know: Why does God give us Psalm 88?Now, we know the answer to that question is because somehow it's good for us. By God's grace, he loves us and he's committed to our everlasting good in Christ — we know that's true and that's where we should start any time we ask “why” about anything: God is good. He loves you. And he's sovereign. So a better question might be: Why is Psalm 88 good for us? In God's wisdom and love, why do we need Psalm 88?I think there are three reasons. We're going to look at each one, but first let's pray again and ask God for help.Father in heaven, by your grace we are here with your Word open before us, and we ask for your help. We reject any assumptions that there's nothing here for us, and we reject any pretense that thinks we can gain anything from you in our own strength. Our souls are needy and you must feed us. Do that, please, in Jesus's name, amen. The first reason we need Psalm 88 …1. Soul trouble is a real experience in Christian life.We don't know the historical details behind this psalm. The superscript tells us that it's from a son of Korah named Heman the Ezrahite — and there are a couple different “Hemans” in the Old Testament; we're not 100% sure which one this is, but he's not to be confused with He-Man, the cartoon from the 1980s. This is Heman the psalmist, but beyond that, we don't know much about what's going on. We don't know of a certain event he's responding to. And that's on purpose.It's important for us to see that the trouble in Psalm 88 is not an external physical enemy, but it's personal and spiritual … and the thing with personal, spiritual trouble is that it can happen anywhere at any time — in the Middle East in 600BC or here, today — and it can happen for all kinds of reasons, some that make sense and others that make no sense.In Need of a CategoryThe fact is it's trouble. The psalmist says in verse 3,“My soul is full of troubles.”And we can understand that … he has a troubled soul. Soul trouble. And this a category we need. There is such a thing as a condition of soul that's like being on the edge of the grave, he says in verse 3. He uses lots metaphors to describe the experience …Verse 4:“I am counted among those who go down to the pit, I am a man who has no strength.”To paraphrase him, he's saying, I've been betted against and drained of life, verse 4. I'm like a zombie and useless — discarded with the dead, verse 5. I'm forgotten and forsaken by God, verse 6.And this is the psalm. You heard it read. It's this kind of talking pretty much the whole way through, and it just goes from bad to worse, to finally darkness. This is soul trouble — it's a condition.Or, it's what some have called “spiritual depression.” That's the title that Martyn Lloyd-Jones gave it back in the 1960s (the word “depression” was not used back then like it is today). But he explained it as an experience in the Christian life when you're in a prolonged state of spiritual discouragement, heaviness, or lack of joy — and not because of some sin, but it just is. This experience has also been called “the dark night of the soul.” Or also “divine absence.”They're all talking about the same thing. It's an experience of intense spiritual dryness, disorientation, and darkness — it's when God has permitted himself to seem far from you.We need a category for this. So call it what you want — “spiritual depression” or “dark night of the soul” or “divine absence” — I'm calling it soul trouble (to use the words of verse 3). But the main thing is that you know it's a thing. It's a real experience in the Christian life, and some of you know about it all too well because you've been there … or you are there now. And we don't like to be there. We don't want to be here. But we can't just make it stop. Others Have Been There, TooWell, first thing we all should know about this experience is that when you find yourself there, you're not alone and it's not uncommon. Historically, we have lots of examples of past saints who've been there.Charles Spurgeon spoke openly of his own soul trouble. In 1858, he preached a sermon to his church titled, “The Christian's Heaviness and Rejoicing,” and in that sermon he said, I was lying upon my couch during this last week, and my spirits were sunken so low that I could weep by the hour like a child, and yet I knew not what I wept for …He battled this all throughout his ministry. Spurgeon can help us. But personally, I've been most helped by John Bunyan, another Baptist ancestor and pastor. Bunyan lived in the 1600s but we can read him today, and he talks about his struggles openly in his autobiography. He called his experience “many turnings and goings” upon his heart. That's another way to say Ups and downs. Back and forth. I want to read to you an extended quote from Bunyan, and it's in Old English, so hang with me (it's printed in the handout if you want to follow). He writes this: I have wondered much at this one thing, that though God doth visit my soul with never so blessed a discovery of himself, yet I have found again, that such hours have attended me afterwards, that I have been in my spirit so filled with darkness, that I could not so much as once conceive what that God and that comfort was with which I have been refreshed.I have sometimes seen more in a line of the Bible than I could well tell how to stand under, and yet at another time the whole Bible hath been to me as dry as a stick; or rather, my heart hath been so dead and dry unto it, that I could not conceive the least dram of refreshment, though I have looked it all over.Do you hear him? His Christian life is like a roller coaster. He sees and then he can't see. He has affections and then no affections. Rivers of refreshment; dry as a desert. And it doesn't make sense. You ever been there before?Brothers and sisters, you're not alone. As the Word of God!We can read about the experiences of past saints, but even better than that, God gave us Psalm 88. We can read the experience here as the word of God. We can walk with this psalmist as he's in the darkest part of the valley. Verse 7:“Your wrath lies heavy upon me, and you overwhelm me with all your waves.”You've isolated me, verse 8. I'm shunned.I pray to you every day but you don't listen. Why do you reject me? Why are you hiding from me?I'm overwhelmed. I'm exhausted. I'm being destroyed and I can't get a break. I'm in the dark.Soul trouble. That's what this is. And we need Psalm 88 because soul trouble is a real experience in the Christian life. God gave us this psalm so that we know what to do with it.That's the second reason we need Psalm 88.2. We learn to take our soul trouble to God. Okay, so Psalm 88 is bleak and despairing at face-value, but when we look closer, we can see that it's not without hope, and that's because of the most obvious fact of this psalm: it is a prayer. Which means, everything that is said here is said to God. Look at this with me, verse 1: “O Yahweh, God of my salvation, I cry out day and night before you. Let my prayer come before you; incline your ear to my cry!”Verse 9: “Every day I call upon you, O Yahweh; I spread out my hands to you.”Verse 13:“But I, O Yahweh, cry to you; in the morning my prayer comes before you.”Do see that? You, you, you! The psalmist is bringing his soul trouble to God even as he knows that God is the one in control of it. The God We Can TrustThat's the amazing thing of the very first line in verse 1. He starts this whole psalm with, “O Yahweh, God of my salvation.”Now why is that important? It's that he addresses God by his covenant name, Yahweh. The name “Yahweh” is the name that God revealed to Moses (and the people of Israel) as the grounds by which he can be trusted. This revelation is one of the highest moments in all the Bible. It is Exodus 34, on Mount Sinai: God passed before Moses and proclaimed his name:“Yahweh, Yahweh, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness…”God proclaimed himself to be the God who is there, and who is there to save. He is the present, saving God — Yahweh. That's his name! That's who he is! He is the present, saving God even when we can't see, even when we may not feel it. The psalmist acknowledges this reality right from the start. He's in the dark, but even in the dark he comes to the God of promise, the God of covenant faithfulness, the God of his salvation. That's what it means to call God by his name, “Yahweh” — which he does in verse 1, verse 9, and verse 13.The psalmist feels forgotten, but he has not forgotten who to tell it to. Verses 1, 9, and 13 frame this psalm. He's saying, Yahweh, I'm a mess, look at me. This is where I am. I'm a mess, but I'm your mess … And I'm coming to you. We are taught here to do the same thing. Three Possible ScenariosThere are really three possible scenarios we could be in. Track with me here:1. The best scenario — this is not to have soul trouble — this is when God is close and clear. It's what John Bunyan was talking about when he said “God doth visit my soul with blessed discoveries of himself.” We read the Bible and we can see! And we're mainly thankful! Don't you want that? It is “heaven on earth” (that's what the Puritan Thomas Brooks called it). It's the best scenario.2. The worst scenario — this is to have soul trouble, to feel all the things Psalm 88 feels, but it's to run away from God. It's to abandon God, reject God, refuse to pray. That is “hell on earth.” God, keep us from that. It's the worst scenario.So there's the best scenario and the worst scenario, and Psalm 88 is neither of those. So what is it?3. It's the second-best scenario. It's to have the soul trouble, but to bring the soul trouble to the God who ‘feels' far away. It's to call him by his name, Yahweh, the God of my salvation. It's to say, I'm a mess, but I'm your mess. It's not the best place to be, but it's the second-best place to be, and sometimes God calls us to second best.Part of Our Vocab?And again, in terms of a category, this is one that I want us to have in our church. I think it's a big problem in the local church when everyone pretends like they're in the best scenario when they're not. Everybody we see, we say, “Hey, how are you?” And it's constantly, “Great! Great! Great!” I want us all to know: we don't have to say “great” if it's not great. But then what do we say? If it's not great and somebody asks you, “Hey, how are you?” You can say, “I'm doing second-best.”Could we make that part of our vocabulary?If we're doing second-best, let's tell one another, and help one another. God loves you right there, in that valley, in second-best. He loves you. He is the God of your salvation. Take your soul trouble to him. Psalm 88 shows us how to do that.Third reason God gives us this psalm …3. Jesus has endured the darkness for us.The Book of Psalms overall is meant to be a guide for our worship. The psalms model for us how to live the life of real faith with all its ups and downs, turnings and goings. And it's amazing how we can identify with such an ancient text. We forget sometimes that this was written thousands of years ago. And yet, we can read it and we get where the writers are coming from. That's astounding. We have an ancient faith, and the psalms are for our faith. But the psalms are not about us and our faith. The psalms are mainly about the Messiah. Some psalms are more overt here than others, but every psalm, taken in context, is meant to point us to Jesus. The same goes for Psalm 88.And I think that becomes clearer the more we slow down and hear what the psalmist is saying. As dark as our own situation might be, there are parts of Psalm 88 that stretch beyond our experience. Wait, It's Not That DarkAs it turns out, I ran into my own soul trouble this past week. True story. I didn't cry for an hour like a child, like Spurgeon did, but I hit a snag, I was spinning my wheels for a bit, and providentially, I'm in Psalm 88. But the more I meditated on it, I was like, Yeah, I'm not there. It's not that dark. And I think we all have to say that by the time we get to verse 7. This is one we need to see together. Can everybody find verse 7? If you don't have a Bible, we'd love to give you one, but for now look on with a neighbor if you need to. We all need to see verse 7,“Your wrath lies heavy upon me, and you overwhelm me with all your waves. Selah”Now notice he doesn't say, “It feels like your wrath is upon me.” No, he says, “Your wrath” — ḥēmāh, your fury, your rage — “your wrath lies heavy upon me.” And I read that this week and said, I've never been there. Some of us in this room have been in some really dark places, but none of us have ever been there. When you get to Psalm 88, verse 7 — the wrath of God heavy upon me — you read that and realize: there's only one person who's ever been there and lived to talk to about it. His name is Jesus. And look, he went there for you. We can say, he went there for me.He Went There For YouHe went there, to that ultimate place of darkness, and he suffered that wrath, so that we don't have to. Which means: as dark as it might get for you, you can remember that Jesus has already gone there and beyond there — on the darkest of days, from a hill called the Skull, after he cried forsaken, after he said It was finished, after they sealed the tomb with a stone, he went there, to the grave where his companions became darkness … but then he looked Death in the face and he said You're done. … And he left. He got up.He was raised in death-defeating, indestructible life which he has right now, for you, where you are. You might feel alone, but you are not alone. He will never leave you. He will never forsake you. Jesus is not afraid of the dark, and because of him we don't have to be either. Praise him! Praise him! What a Savior!Jesus, thank you for your great love for us. And thank you that the proof of your love is in your wounds. We know that you've not abandoned us. You've not forgotten us. But you're here with us always and you hold us even when we hurt. And we can't see. You've got us. We praise you, Jesus. We praise you.

Když v Bibli čteme výzvu "Přistupte směle k trůnu milosti!", je to skutečné pozvání. Zároveň ale předstupujeme před toho, který všechno ví a vidí, není mu skryto vůbec nic. A najednou se může objevit zaváhání: Chci to vůbec? O důvodech, proč tedy k tomuto trůnu přistoupit, bude mluvit obsáhlá závěrečná kapitola z knihy Dvě úvahy o modlitbě Johna Bunyana, ze které bude ve Večeru pod lampou číst Petr Stoy.

QUOTES FOR REFLECTION“I've tried to hate myself,Thinking that's how things will change,But it never helps, piling up the blame.Fighting fire with fire, hurt with more hurt,Breaking my own heart makes everything worse.”~“Kind to Myself” by Tenth Avenue North “That is that which I seek for, even to be rid of this heavy burden; but get it off myself, I cannot; nor is there any man in our country that can take it off my shoulders; therefore am I going this way, as I told you, that I may be rid of my burden.” “I went but a little further, and I saw one, as I thought in my mind, hang bleeding upon the tree; and the very sight of him made my burden fall off my back, (for I groaned under a very heavy burden,) but then it fell down from off me.”~The Pilgrim's Progress by John Bunyan “The only way that the disciplines strengthen the Christian life is when we view them as bread, not barter. They are not trading chips to exchange for God's grace but, rather, divine manna, providing the nutrition by which our love for Christ thrives. As we meditate upon the lavishness of grace across Scripture, commune with our God in prayer, and experience many dimensions of his mercy among his people, we grow in our understanding of his love. As a consequence, our love for him grows, displacing lesser loves that attack us even as they attract us.”~Unlimited Grace by Bryan ChapellSERMON PASSAGEHebrews 10:1-18 (ESV)1 For since the law has but a shadow of the good things to come instead of the true form of these realities, it can never, by the same sacrifices that are continually offered every year, make perfect those who draw near. 2 Otherwise, would they not have ceased to be offered, since the worshipers, having once been cleansed, would no longer have any consciousness of sins? 3 But in these sacrifices there is a reminder of sins every year. 4 For it is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins.5 Consequently, when Christ came into the world, he said,“Sacrifices and offerings you have not desired,  but a body have you prepared for me;6 in burnt offerings and sin offerings  you have taken no pleasure.7 Then I said, ‘Behold, I have come to do your will, O God,  as it is written of me in the scroll of the book.'”8 When he said above, “You have neither desired nor taken pleasure in sacrifices and offerings and burnt offerings and sin offerings” (these are offered according to the law), 9 then he added, “Behold, I have come to do your will.” He does away with the first in order to establish the second. 10 And by that will we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.11 And every priest stands daily at his service, offering repeatedly the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins. 12 But when Christ had offered for all time a single sacrifice for sins, he sat down at the right hand of God, 13 waiting from that time until his enemies should be made a footstool for his feet. 14 For by a single offering he has perfected for all time those who are being sanctified.15 And the Holy Spirit also bears witness to us; for after saying,16 “This is the covenant that I will make with them   after those days, declares the Lord:   I will put my laws on their hearts,   and write them on their minds,”17 then he adds,   “I will remember their sins and their lawless deeds no more.”18 Where there is forgiveness of these, there is no longer any offering for sin.

K Bohu nevede jiná cesta, než skrze oběť jeho milovaného syna - to zdůrazňuje ve svých Dvou úvahách o modlitbě významný kazatel 17. století John Bunyan. Další kapitoly z jeho úvah uslyšíte ve Večeru pod lampou opět v podání Petra Stoye.

June 2, 2025 ZACH MAXCEY,President of Providence TheologicalInstitute of New Covenant Theology,who will address: “An OVERVIEW of the UPCOMING2025 JOHN BUNYAN CONFERENCEin FRANKLIN, TN: ISRAEL: PAST,PRESENT & FUTURE” Subscribe: Listen:

Daily QuoteIf you want your children to keep their feet on the ground, put some responsibility on their shoulders. (John Bunyan)你若希望你的孩子总是能够脚踏实地，那就要让他们承担一些责任。（约翰•班扬）Poem of the Day村居高鼎稚子弄冰杨万里Beauty of WordsThe Wind in the WillowsKenneth Grahame

Dlouhá kapitola z knihy Johna Bunyana nastoluje důležité téma rozpoznávání, tedy schopnosti, kterou potřebujeme jak v tom praktickém životě tady a teď, tak v duchovní oblasti. Večer pod lampou nabízí čtení do ucha ze spisu Dvě úvahy o modlitbě.

Would you like some advice for how to work through scrupulosity and salvation OCD from a famous Christian author? Allow me to share with you some important insights about working through salvation OCD by highlighting a statement from John Bunyan himself, who was known to have his own battle with scrupulosity. You are not alone […]

Známý kazatel 17. století John Bunyan hodně přemýšlel a často kázal o modlitbě. Dvě z jeho úvah pře nedávnem vyšly také v nakladatelství Stefanos - právě z ní teď čteme ve Večerech pod lampou na Rádiu 7.

Úsilí o modlitbu, tedy rozhovor s Bohem, má samozřejmě svá úskalí a překážky, stejně jako komunikace mezi lidmi. Na čem záleží a co jsou možná jen představy o dobré modlitbě, odhalí další části čtení z knihy Johna Bunyana Dvě úvahy o modlitbě.

Aprofunde sua devoção a Deus em fiel.in/devocionalNo início de tudoEm amor nos predestinou para ele, para a adoção de filhos, por meio de Jesus Cristo, segundo o beneplácito de sua vontade. (Efésios 1.4-5)A experiência de Charles Spurgeon não está além da capacidade de qualquer cristão comum.Spurgeon (1834-1892) foi um contemporâneo de George Mueller. Ele serviu o Tabernáculo Metropolitano, em Londres, por mais de trinta anos, como o pastor mais notável de seu tempo.Sua pregação era tão poderosa que pessoas se convertiam a Cristo todas as semanas. Seus sermões ainda são impressos hoje e ele é considerado por muitos como um modelo de ganhador de almas.Ele se lembra de uma experiência de quando tinha dezesseis anos que moldou sua vida e seu ministério pelo restante dos seus dias.Quando estava indo a Cristo, pensei que eu estava fazendo tudo sozinho, e embora buscasse o Senhor fervorosamente, não tinha ideia de que o Senhor estava me procurando. Eu não acho que o jovem convertido está ciente disso no início.Lembro-me do dia e da hora em que pela primeira vez acolhi essas verdades [a doutrina da eleição] em minha própria alma — quando, como diz John Bunyan, elas queimaram em meu coração como com um ferro quente, e posso lembrar como senti que eu tinha crescido de repente de um bebê a um homem — que eu tinha feito progressos no conhecimento bíblico por ter encontrado, de uma vez por todas, essa pista para a verdade de Deus.Uma noite da semana, quando eu estava sentado à casa de Deus, eu não estava pensando muito sobre o sermão do pregador, porque eu não cria nele.O pensamento me impressionou: Como você veio a tornar-se um cristão? Busquei o Senhor. Mas como você veio a buscar o Senhor? A verdade veio à minha mente em um momento — eu não o teria buscado, a menos que houvesse alguma influência anterior em minha mente para me fazer buscá-lo. Eu orei, pensei, mas depois perguntei a mim mesmo: Como comecei a orar? Fui estimulado a orar lendo as Escrituras. Como eu li as Escrituras? Eu as li, mas o que me levou a fazê-lo?Então, num instante, vi que Deus estava no início de tudo e que Ele era o autor da minha fé e, assim, toda a doutrina da graça se desvelou para mim, dessa doutrina não me afastei até este dia, e eu desejo fazer dessa a minha confissão constante: “Eu atribuo minha conversão completamente a Deus”.--Devocional Alegria Inabalável, por John Piper | Editora Fiel.Conteúdo oferecido em parceria entre Desiring God e Ministério Fiel.

Where do we see traces of Puritanism in today's American religious landscape? Rev. Dr. Cameron A. MacKenzie, Professor of Historical Theology at Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, Indiana, joins Andy and Sarah for our nine-episode series, “Pilgrims, Puritans, and the Founding of New England.” In episode 9, we come to the end of this series to learn about the relationship of the Quakers to the Puritans, the founding of Harvard and Yale Universities, and where we see traces of Puritanism in today's American religious landscape. Resources in this episode: All episodes in The Puritan Movement series Find more from Dr. MacKenzie here Recommended reading from Dr. MacKenzie includes: Worldly Saints by Leland Ryken, English Puritanism by John Spurr,  Reformation in England  by Peter Marshall,  Puritan Christianity in America: Religion and Life in 17th Century Massachusetts  by  John Carden, and  Pilgrim's Progress  by John Bunyan. As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

Series: Signs & GloryTitle: “Why Do People Reject Jesus?”Subtitle: Scripture: John 7:1-52 Isaiah 55:1-7Jeremiah 2:13Deuteronomy 18:15-18, Acts 3:20-22Matthew 10:34-35Look for the drama in scriptureBottom line: People reject Jesus for many reasons, but He still calls the thirsty to come and receive real life.INTRODUCTIONCONTEXTSERMON OUTLINECONCLUSIONNOTESOUTLINESQUESTIONS TO CONSIDER DISCUSSION QUESTIONSMAIN REFERENCES USEDOpening prayer: Lord God, help us grow to be and do like Jesus, while abiding in him and leading others to do the same. INTRODUCTIONSome people in history seem to split the world in two. Say their name, and you immediately stir debate. Martin Luther King Jr.—hero of justice or dangerous disruptor? Galileo—scientific genius or arrogant heretic? Nelson Mandela, Joan of Arc, Malcolm X—each one beloved by some, opposed by others. But history's most polarizing figure? Jesus. No one sparked more debate, division, or devotion. And in John 7, we see that clearly. The question is: Why do people reject Him—and could we be doing the same?John Bunyan knew all about that and wrote, "There was a man, the world did think him mad, the more he gave away, the more he had."Feast of Tabernacles...Originally a harvest festival coming at the end of the last major harvest of the year (grapes). They celebrated God who brought the rain.Became a celebration of God's deliverance of Israel through the 40 years of wandering in the wilderness where God had to supernaturally supply them water for the whole nation in the desert.It had eschatological hopesFor the restoration of the nation of IsraelFor the ingathering of all nations under GodJesus presents himself as God's agent to make these end time events a reality. He does this as the source of life--abundant (like being celebrated during this festival) and eternal (like living water).Bottom line: People reject Jesus for many reasons, but He still calls the thirsty to come and receive real life.In his last 6 months, Jesus enters Jerusalem during the Feast of Tabernacles surrounded by confusion, debate and division over who he is and why he matters. This is the context around his famous teaching about the Holy Spirit's role when he ascends and why he's called living water. OUTLINE (input from ChatGPT)1. Some reject Jesus because He doesn't follow their expectations.(John 7:1–10)Jesus' own brothers didn't believe because He didn't fit their agenda or timeline.We still wrestle with disappointment or control when Jesus won't do what we want, when we want.2. Some reject Jesus because His truth exposes their hypocrisy.(John 7:11–24)Jesus confronts those judging Him wrongly, especially for healing on the Sabbath.We resist truth when it challenges our comfort, image, or self-righteousness.3. Some reject Jesus because of assumptions and incomplete knowledge.(John 7:25–36)The crowd “knows” where Jesus is from and assumes He can't be the Christ.Spiritual blindness often comes from thinking we already understand everything.4. Some reject Jesus because they fear people more than God.(John 7:40–52)Division rises. Leaders pressure, mock, and dismiss. Nicodemus is silenced.Following Jesus means risking disapproval—but silence is a choice too.5. But Jesus still calls: If you're thirsty, come to Me and drink.(John 7:37–39)On the last and greatest day of the feast, Jesus invites all to receive living water—the Holy Spirit.Rejection isn't the end of the story. Jesus still offers Himself to anyone willing to come in faith.CONCLUSION Bottom line: People reject Jesus for many reasons, but He still calls the thirsty to come and receive real life."For decades one of the first places immigrants to America landed was Ellis Island. They came hoping for a better life, longing for a chance to find happiness. Near Ellis Island was a statue, and the statue was an invitation. A poem by Emma Lazarus captured the invitation:"Keep, ancient lands, your storied pomp!" cries she With silent lips. "Give me your tired, your poor, Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free, The wretched refuse of your teeming shore.Send these, the homeless, tempest-tossed to me, I lift my lamp beside the golden door!"What a beautiful invitation. "Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses." Jesus extends a better invitation. "Come, weary and broken. Come, thirsty and dying. Come to me and find life."" -Carter, p. 181The Lion"How are we to drink this water? Although the offer is free and open to all, there are yet some terms to be met. C. S. Lewis in his children's novel The Silver Chair puts his finger on this in the clearest of terms. Jill, seeing a lion, is scared out of her wits and runs into the forest. She runs so hard that she wears herself out and is just about to die of thirst, or so she thinks, when she hears the gurgling of a brook in the distance. She approaches it and is almost ready to go to the brook when on the grass before her is the same lion."Are you not thirsty?" said the Lion."I'm dying of thirst," said Jill."Then drink, " said the Lion."May I— could I-would you mind going away while I do?" said Jill.The Lion answered this only by a look and a very low growl. And as Jill gazed at its motionless bulk, she realized that she might as well have asked the whole mountain to move aside for her convenience. The delicious rippling noise of the stream was driving her nearly frantic."Will you promise not to — do anything to me, if I do come?" said Jill."I make no promise,'" said the Lion.Jill was so thirsty now that, without noticing it, she had come a step nearer."Do you eat girls?" she said. "I have swallowed up girls and boys, women and men, kings and em-perors, cities and realms," said the Lion. It didn't say this as if it were boasting, nor as if it were sorry, nor as if it were angry. It just said it."I daren't come and drink," said Jill."Then you will die of thirst," said the Lion."Oh dear!" said Jill, coming another step nearer."I suppose I must go and look for another stream then.""There is no other stream," said the Lion.It never occurred to Jill to disbelieve the Lion —no one who had seen his stern face could do that-and her mind suddenly made itself up. It was the worst thing she had ever had to do, but she went forward to the stream, knelt down, and began scooping up water in her hand. It was the coldest, most refreshing water she had ever tasted.Do you see what Lewis is saying? When you come to the water, you are coming to a Lion, you must come on the Lion's terms, and you have to yield yourself by faith in order to get the water. Some of us need to realize that we are thirsty, that we need that water so badly that we are going to die without it. We need to step out on faith, yielding to the Lion of the tribe of Judah, and receive the water of eternal life.INVITATIONWhat about you?Are you paralyzed by the confusion, division and debate over who Jesus is and what he came to do?““Is anyone thirsty? Come and drink— even if you have no money! Come, take your choice of wine or milk— it's all free! Why spend your money on food that does not give you strength? Why pay for food that does you no good? Listen to me, and you will eat what is good. You will enjoy the finest food. “Come to me with your ears wide open. Listen, and you will find life. I will make an everlasting covenant with you. I will give you all the unfailing love I promised to David. See how I used him to display my power among the peoples. I made him a leader among the nations. You also will command nations you do not know, and peoples unknown to you will come running to obey, because I, the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, have made you glorious.” Seek the Lord while you can find him. Call on him now while he is near. Let the wicked change their ways and banish the very thought of doing wrong. Let them turn to the Lord that he may have mercy on them. Yes, turn to our God, for he will forgive generously.”‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭55‬:‭1‬-‭7‬ ‭NLT‬‬Peter puts it all in perspective in his first sermon:““Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.” When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”” ‭‭Acts‬ ‭2‬:‭36‬-‭39‬ ‭NIV‬‬How do we respond? Answer 2 questions:Take out a card or piece of paper right now. Write down the answer to these questions: What is God saying to me right now?What am I going to do about it? Write this down on a sheet of paper. What I hear you saying, Lord, is ___________________.[my name] is going to believe/do __________________________________________________ as a result.Finally, share this with your Home or Mission group this week when you gather as a testimony about what God is doing in your life. You don't have to get too specific to give him praise.Lord's Supper, 1 Cor 11:23-26 is good passage.Also, say something like, "Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again." (past, present, and future)PrayNOTESJesus' brothers believed in Jesus but not the biblical Jesus; we see this all the timeJesus recognized that his brothers didn't believe in him as the Messiah yet though they'd lived with him for 30+ years; never sinned; Mary knowing who he was; favorite son; perfect son; resentment and sibling rivalry aboundsDoes Jesus divide people? (Yes)Family can be the toughest mission fieldFamily misunderstands when they don't believe in the biblical JesusReligious leaders miss the leader of their religion due to their self-righteousness, ambition and unbelief"Christ did not want to bring division. But because of the sinfulness of our hearts, because of our fallenness, because of our unwillingness to repent and bow to him, the Prince of Peace is Christ the Divider.When snow descends upon the Continental Divide, it melts and flows off either to the west or to the east, never to meet again. Christ is the continental divide in our lives. We will either go up with the morning stars or, to use Eliot's phrase, join the valley of the dying stars. Christ brings division to everyday life." -Hughes, p. 226Water"On the seven days of the Feast, a golden flagon was filled with water from the pool of Siloam and was carried in a procession led by the High Priest back to the temple. As the procession approached the watergate on the south side of the inner court three blasts from the shôphar - a trumpet connected with joyful occasions - were sounded. While the pilgrims watched, the priests processed around the altar with the flagon, the temple choir singing the Hallel (Pss. 113 - 118). When the choir reached Psalm 118, every male pilgrim shook a lulab (willow and myrtle twigs tied with palm) in his right hand, while his left raised a piece of citrus fruit (a sign of the ingathered harvest), and all cried 'Give thanks to the LORD!' three times. The water was offered to God at the time of the morning sacrifice, along with the daily drink-offering (of wine). The wine and the water were poured into their respective silver bowls, and then poured out before the LORD. Moreover, these ceremonies of the Feast of Tabernacles were related in Jewish thought both to the LorD's provision of water in the desert and to the Lord's pouring out of the Spirit in the last days. Pouring at the Feast of Tabernacles refers symbolically to the messianic age in which a stream from the sacred rock would flow over the whole earth." -Carson, p. 321-322"In general terms, then, Jesus' pronouncement is clear: he is the fulfil-ment of all that the Feast of Tabernacles anticipated." -Carson, p. 322OUTLINESee aboveQUESTIONS TO CONSIDERWhat do I want them to know? Why do I want them to know it?What do I want them to do?Why do I want them to do it?How do they do this?DISCUSSION QUESTIONSDiscovery Bible Study process: https://www.dbsguide.org/Read the passage together.Retell the story in your own words.Discovery the storyWhat does this story tell me about God?What does this story tell me about people?If this is really true, what should I do?What is God saying to you right now? (Write this down)What are you going to do about it? (Write this down)Who am I going to tell about this?Find our sermons, podcasts, discussion questions and notes at https://www.gracetoday.net/podcastAlternate Discussion Questions (by Jeff Vanderstelt): Based on this passage:Who is God?What has he done/is he doing/is he going to do?Who am I? (In light of 1 & 2)What do I do? (In light of who I am)How do I do it?Final Questions (Write this down)What is God saying to you right now? What are you going to do about it?MAIN REFERENCES USED“John,” by R. Kent Hughes, Preaching the Word Commentary, Edited by Kent HughesExalting Jesus in John, by Matt Carter & Josh WredbergThe Gospels & Epistles of John, FF BruceJohn, RC SproulJohn, KöstenbergerThe Gospel According to John, DA CarsonThe Light Has Come, Leslie NewbiginThe Visual Word, Patrick Schreiner“Look at the Book” by John Piper (LATB)“The Bible Knowledge Commentary” by Walvoord, Zuck (BKC)“The Bible Exposition Commentary” by Warren Wiersbe (BEC)Outline Bible, D Willmington (OB)NIV Study Bible (NIVSB) https://www.biblica.com/resources/scholar-notes/niv-study-bible/Chronological Life Application Study Bible (NLT)ESV Study Bible (ESVSB) https://www.esv.orgThe Bible Project https://bibleproject.comNicky Gumbel bible reading plan app or via YouVersionClaude.aiChatGPT Google Gemini

Who were Increase and Cotton Mather, and what happened with the Salem Witch Trials? Rev. Dr. Cameron A. MacKenzie, Professor of Historical Theology at Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, Indiana, joins Andy and Sarah for our nine-episode series, “Pilgrims, Puritans, and the Founding of New England.” In episode 8, we learn about the influence of both Increase and Cotton Mather (including how they got their names), the religious context in Salem, and what happened during the Salem Witch Trials. Resources in this episode: All episodes in The Puritan Movement series Find more from Dr. MacKenzie here Recommended reading from Dr. MacKenzie includes: Worldly Saints by Leland Ryken, English Puritanism by John Spurr,  Reformation in England  by Peter Marshall,  Puritan Christianity in America: Religion and Life in 17th Century Massachusetts  by  John Carden, and  Pilgrim's Progress  by John Bunyan. As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

Send us a textPut on your comfortable shoes and grab your walking stick because today we're embarking on the most famous allegory in the English language: John Bunyan's The Pilgrim's Progress from 1678.  We'll cross plains, endure temptations, descend valleys, fight monsters, and ford rivers in our quest for the Celestial City!  Along the way, we'll talk about how this most Puritanical of texts is, ironically, deeply indebted to the ideas of the preceding religions it rejects.  Last one there's a rotten egg!An apology: please do forgive the plosives on this episode.  Reckon I got too near the microphone's pop filter.  I shall work on my technique in future.Link to The Pilgrim's Progress: https://www.monergism.com/thethreshold/sdg/bunyan/The%20Pilgrim's%20Progress%20-%20John%20Bunyan.pdfSupport the showPlease like, subscribe, and rate the podcast on Apple, Spotify, YouTube Music, or wherever you listen. Thank you!Email: classicenglishliterature@gmail.comFollow me on Instagram, Facebook, Bluesky, and YouTube.If you enjoy the show, please consider supporting it with a small donation. Click the "Support the Show" button. So grateful!Podcast Theme Music: "Rejoice" by G.F. Handel, perf. The Advent Chamber OrchestraSubcast Theme Music: "Sons of the Brave" by Thomas Bidgood, perf. The Band of the Irish GuardsSound effects and incidental music: Freesounds.orgMy thanks and appreciation to all the generous providers!

What would America's founding father pray about? In this revealing episode, we examine George Washington's personal prayer journal, discovering a man who deeply acknowledged his sinfulness while fervently seeking God's mercy through Jesus Christ. His humble words—"I confess them, O Lord, with shame and sorrow, detestation and loathing"—paint a portrait of genuine Christian faith that shaped his worldview and leadership.Washington's explicit references to Jesus as his "only Savior" and his prayers for God to "bless our rulers in church and state" create a powerful challenge to modern narratives about America's founding. As Judge Nathaniel Freeman declared in 1802, our nation "may be considered not as a pagan but a Christian republic." The podcast explores how these primary source documents undermine revisionist histories that attempt to divorce America's governmental foundations from its Christian roots.We also journey through Jesus's Sermon on the Mount, reflecting on the seemingly impossible standards of the Beatitudes. Could their purpose be to demonstrate our absolute need for a Savior? The discussion of meekness reveals it isn't weakness, but rather "strength under control"—the capacity for action restrained by choice. This understanding transforms how we approach Jesus's challenging teachings.The episode concludes with a heartfelt call to action: use whatever time remains to strengthen our communities through faith. Starting with our own spiritual lives and marriages, then expanding outward to family, church, school, and nation, we're challenged to influence our spheres with godly principles. As John Quincy Adams wisely noted, "Duty is ours, results are God's." What duty might God be calling you to fulfill today?Support the showThe American Soul Podcasthttps://www.buzzsprout.com/1791934/subscribe

How do you prepare for suffering before it comes? In this episode of Light + Truth, John Piper examines John Bunyan's unwavering trust in God's sovereignty.

Why do the greatest lessons often come through suffering? In this episode of Light + Truth, John Piper explores how John Bunyan's time in prison made his ministry a balm for sufferers.

What sustains your faith when all is stripped away? In this episode of Light + Truth, John Piper looks at the hardships of John Bunyan to reveal how suffering teaches us to depend on God alone.

How did the fracturing of Christianity in Old England affect how churches were founded in New England? Rev. Dr. Cameron A. MacKenzie, Professor of Historical Theology at Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, Indiana, joins Andy and Sarah for our nine-episode series, “Pilgrims, Puritans, and the Founding of New England.” In episode 7, we learn about changes occuring in Old England affecting New England's religious landscape, the fracturing of Christianity in Old England, the secret Roman Catholic King of England and resulting secret partnership with France, Increase and Cotton Mather in New England, and the Church in Massachusetts. Resources in this episode: All episodes in The Puritan Movement series Find more from Dr. MacKenzie here Recommended reading from Dr. MacKenzie includes: Worldly Saints by Leland Ryken, English Puritanism by John Spurr,  Reformation in England  by Peter Marshall,  Puritan Christianity in America: Religion and Life in 17th Century Massachusetts  by  John Carden, and  Pilgrim's Progress  by John Bunyan. As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

What happens when the church in New England grows and the Halfway Covenant is established? Rev. Dr. Cameron A. MacKenzie, Professor of Historical Theology at Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, Indiana, joins Andy and Sarah for our nine-episode series, “Pilgrims, Puritans, and the Founding of New England.” In episode 6, we learn about Roger Williams and Rhode Island, declension of the church, issues that start to arise in New England, and how the Halfway Covenant was established. Resources in this episode: All episodes in The Puritan Movement series Find more from Dr. MacKenzie here Recommended reading from Dr. MacKenzie includes: Worldly Saints by Leland Ryken, English Puritanism by John Spurr,  Reformation in England  by Peter Marshall,  Puritan Christianity in America: Religion and Life in 17th Century Massachusetts  by  John Carden, and  Pilgrim's Progress  by John Bunyan. As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

How was Rhode Island founded, and what was the religious landscape like in this colony? Rev. Dr. Cameron A. MacKenzie, Professor of Historical Theology at Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, Indiana, joins Andy and Sarah for our nine-episode series, “Pilgrims, Puritans, and the Founding of New England.” In episode 5, we learn about Anne Hutchinson and her religious beliefs, Thomas Hooker and his belief in Preparation, John Cotton and his religious beliefs, Roger Williams and his championing of religious liberty, and the founding of Rhode Island. Resources in this episode: All episodes in The Puritan Movement series Find more from Dr. MacKenzie here Recommended reading from Dr. MacKenzie includes: Worldly Saints by Leland Ryken, English Puritanism by John Spurr,  Reformation in England  by Peter Marshall,  Puritan Christianity in America: Religion and Life in 17th Century Massachusetts  by  John Carden, and  Pilgrim's Progress  by John Bunyan. As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

We've now spent two weeks focusing on the corporate prayer service. It is our prayer that, if you are not participating in your church's prayer service, or if your church does not have one, you will find a way to begin this sweet means of grace. In this episode, Jeremy Walker and Teddy James discuss some helpful resources on learning to pray, both privately and corporately. Teddy also asks Jeremy for his counsel toward those in churches without a prayer service. How can a pastor begin to lead his flock toward this precious practice? How can a church member encourage his or her pastor to consider it? Next week we will wrap up this series with the second sermon from Jeremy Walker, which offers counsel to those sitting in the prayer service and not praying aloud. This is not an hour of passiveness for them. It should be a time of great, intentional activity. Show Notes: Piercing Heaven - https://www.wtsbooks.com/products/piercing-heaven-prayers-of-the-puritans-9781683593348?variant=31497830793278 Valley of Vision - https://banneroftruth.org/us/store/devotional-books/the-valley-of-vision/ Prayer by John Bunyan - https://banneroftruth.org/us/store/christian-living/prayer-by-john-bunyan/ A Way to Pray (A Method of Prayer) by Matthew Henry - https://banneroftruth.org/us/store/christian-living/way-to-pray/ Want to listen to The Whole Counsel on the go? Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast app: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts You can get The Whole Counsel a day early on the Media Gratiae App: https://subsplash.com/mediagratiae/app

Rev. Dr. Cameron A. MacKenzie, Professor of Historical Theology at Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, Indiana, joins Andy and Sarah for our nine-episode series, “Pilgrims, Puritans, and the Founding of New England.” In episode 4, we learn about the Puritans and Pilgrims settling into the New World colonies, the challenges they faced, the kind of church establishment they formed, what covenant congregationalist churches believed versus Presbyterians, and tensions between two wings of Puritans concerning the experience of grace in their lives. Resources in this episode: All episodes in The Puritan Movement series Find more from Dr. MacKenzie here Recommended reading from Dr. MacKenzie includes: Worldly Saints by Leland Ryken, English Puritanism by John Spurr,  Reformation in England  by Peter Marshall,  Puritan Christianity in America: Religion and Life in 17th Century Massachusetts  by  John Carden, and  Pilgrim's Progress  by John Bunyan. As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

Who was John Winthrop, and what was his role in the founding of the Massachusetts Bay Colony? The Rev. Dr. Cameron A. MacKenzie, Professor of Historical Theology at Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, Indiana, joins Andy and Sarah for our nine-episode series, “Pilgrims, Puritans, and the Founding of New England.” In episode 3, we discuss the context of the Puritan migration to New England during the reign of Charles I, Puritan leader John Winthrop, and the establishment of the Massachusetts Bay Colony.  Resources in this episode: All episodes in The Puritan Movement series Find more from Dr. MacKenzie here Recommended reading from Dr. MacKenzie includes: Worldly Saints by Leland Ryken, English Puritanism by John Spurr,  Reformation in England  by Peter Marshall,  Puritan Christianity in America: Religion and Life in 17th Century Massachusetts  by  John Carden, and  Pilgrim's Progress  by John Bunyan. As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

In this chapter of The Pilgrim's Progress, we follow Christian and his new companion, Hopeful, as they navigate the complexities of their pilgrimage. Their journey takes a significant turn when they encounter Mr. By-Ends, a man whose name alone evokes suspicion. As they engage in a dialogue about faith and the pursuit of worldly gain, the contrast between their steadfast commitment to truth and By-Ends' opportunistic nature becomes starkly apparent.As they travel together, they converse with By-Ends, who hails from the wealthy town of Fair Speech, and he boasts of his connections to influential figures from that town. His conversation reveals the allure of riches and status, tempting Christian and Hopeful to consider the cost of their convictions. However, Christian's discernment shines through as he recognizes the dangers of compromising faith for material gain.This part also introduces Demas, who beckons them toward a silver mine, representing the seductive pull of earthly treasures. Christian's refusal to deviate from the path underscores the importance of remaining vigilant against distractions that can lead them astray. The encounter with the pillar of salt, serves as a poignant warning against looking back and longing for the comforts of the past.Join us as we reflect on the themes of integrity, temptation, and the importance of steadfastness in the face of worldly allurements. This part encourages us to consider what we truly value on our own journeys and to remain focused on the path set before us.Minor updating has been done to make this recording more understandable.If you'd like to delve deeper into the lessons of this episode, check out the following resources (affil links):The Pilgrim's Progress Old English: https://amzn.to/4j1j3XgThe Pilgrim's Progress Modern English: https://amzn.to/3W3SNlvLittle Pilgrim's Big Journey: https://amzn.to/41YDs9GSupport our mission:▪️ Buy Me a Coffee: buymeacoffee.com/wanderingpilgrims▪️ Patreon: patreon.com/TheWanderingPilgrims▪️ Shop: teespring.com/stores/the-wandering-pilgrims▪️ Our Website: www.thewanderingpilgrims.comConnect with us for more insights and updates:▪️ Instagram: instagram.com/thewanderingpilgrims▪️ Facebook: facebook.com/The-Wandering-Pilgrims▪️ YouTube: youtube.com/channel/UCbvMuDo9dpaQ0Bu71lRRiQw▪️ Twitter: @WanderPilgrims▪️ Truth Social: @wanderingpilgrims

Some of us have heard the names of 17th-century poets like George Herbert, John Donne, and John Milton. But did you know that John Bunyan also wrote poems? And that there were many female poets too? Join Trinity, Mina, and Sean as they discuss these poets and their exciting lives with Dr. David Parry, Tutorial Fellow in English at Regent's Park College in Oxford, England.   Show Notes If you'd like to find out more about the poets Dr. Parry mentioned in this episode, here are their names: John Milton, John Bunyan, George Herbert, John Donne, Lucy Hutchinson, Mary Sydney. "Upon a Snail" by John Bunyan https://www.poetrybyheart.org.uk/poems/upon-the-snail Some articles by Simonetta Carr about some of the authors mentioned: Lucy Hutchison https://www.placefortruth.org/blog/lucy-hutchinson-%E2%80%93-puritan-woman-changing-times John Donne https://www.placefortruth.org/blog/john-donne-poet-of-grace-and-comfort George Herbert https://www.placefortruth.org/blog/george-herbert-pastor-and-poet

What happened when Separatists from the Church of England left for North America? The Rev. Dr. Cameron A. MacKenzie, Professor of Historical Theology at Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, Indiana, joins Andy and Sarah for our nine-episode series, “Pilgrims, Puritans, and the Founding of New England.” In episode 2, we move to New England and the Puritan settlements, discussing how the Separatists left for North America, the settlement at Plymouth Plantation, the difference between Pilgrims and Puritans, and the Puritans who didn't separate from the Church of England. Resources in this episode: All episodes in The Puritan Movement series Find more from Dr. MacKenzie here Recommended reading from Dr. MacKenzie includes: Worldly Saints by Leland Ryken, English Puritanism by John Spurr,  Reformation in England  by Peter Marshall,  Puritan Christianity in America: Religion and Life in 17th Century Massachusetts  by  John Carden, and  Pilgrim's Progress  by John Bunyan. As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

John Bunyan's famous allegory, "Pilgrim's Progress," described the journey of the believer from the "slough of despond" to "the celestial city." In less picturesque terms, Paul did the same for the Colossians. We, too, need to know how to get there from here. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/508/29

In this chapter of The Pilgrims Progress, we witness the profound encounter between Christian and Faithful as they navigate the treacherous wilderness and approach the ominous town of Vanity. Their journey takes a pivotal turn when they reunite with Evangelist, who offers wise counsel and warnings about the trials that lie ahead. He emphasizes the importance of steadfastness in faith, urging them to remain vigilant against the temptations that Vanity Fair represents.As they enter the fair, Christian and Faithful become targets of ridicule and hostility, their distinct attire and language marking them as outsiders. This Vanity Fair, a bustling marketplace of worldly pleasures and vanities, reveals the stark contrast between the pilgrims' heavenly aspirations and the town's base pursuits. Despite the mockery and violence they face, Faithful stands firm in his beliefs, leading to a harrowing trial where he is condemned for his faithfulness to the truth.This part delves into themes of perseverance, the cost of discipleship, and the eternal conflict between the kingdom of God and the allure of worldly distractions. As Faithful meets a tragic end, we are reminded of the ultimate reward awaiting those who remain true to their convictions. Join us as we reflect on the courage it takes to uphold one's faith in the face of adversity and the promise of eternal life beyond this earthly journey.Minor updating has been done to make this recording more understandable.If you would like to pick up a copy of The Pilgrim's Progress to add to your home library, we have listed some of our favorites below. And we were sure to include one of our favorites rewritten for children. (affil links)The Pilgrim's Progress Old English: https://amzn.to/4j1j3XgThe Pilgrim's Progress Modern English: https://amzn.to/3W3SNlvLittle Pilgrim's Big Journey: https://amzn.to/41YDs9GSupport our mission:▪️ Buy Me a Coffee: buymeacoffee.com/wanderingpilgrims▪️ Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/TheWanderingPilgrims▪️ Shop: https://shop.thewanderingpilgrims.com/▪️ Our Website: www.thewanderingpilgrims.comConnect with us for more insights and updates:▪️ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewanderingpilgrims/▪️ Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/The-Wandering-Pilgrims-581206039071736/

In this episode, Oliver Allmand-Smith returns to give a thoughtful critique of the legacy of John Bunyan, its impact on present-day evangelicalism and the importance of confessionalism. The way Bunyan's strengths led to his weaknesses is explored, alongside his weak view of Baptism and Church Membership, and his hyper-individualistic approach to the Christian life. Oliver and John-Mark stress the importance of understanding Bunyan in his own historical context, before closing with a re-emphasis of the admirable qualities of John Bunyan.Send us a textContact Broken Wharfe Tweet us @Brokenwharfe Find us on Facebook at BrokenWharfe Follow us on Instagram at BrokenWharfe Email us at info@brokenwharfe.com Thanks for listening!

Part 5 of our ongoing book discussion series about the classic work by John Bunyan, The Pilgrim's Progress, is finally here! James, Jonathan, and Jeffrey Stivason, pastor of Grace Reformed Presbyterian Church and a professor at Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary, pick up where they left off with Christian coming out of the Valley of the Shadow of Death and meeting his friend, Faithful. Their subsequent conversation covers the profound themes of temptation, discontentment, and shame, subjects that are relatable and applicable to all believers and illuminate the complexities of the Christian journey for each individual.  Two things really jump out at me as I read this…Bunyan recognizes that there are differences in the ways in which Christians are tempted, the ways in which therefore they are comforted and find hope, and that's a profound insight… This conversation with Faithful serves such an important purpose because it shows two men, walking the same pilgrim journey, yet in one sense experiencing it very differently. – Jonathan Master Don't miss this enlightening, instructive discussion! For the opportunity to win a copy of The Pilgrim's Progress, thanks to the generosity of Banner of Truth, enter here.    Show Notes: The Pilgrim's Progress: https://reformedresources.org/the-pilgrims-progress-clothbound/ Pictures from Pilgrim's Progress: https://reformedresources.org/pictures-from-pilgrims-progress-paperback/ Previous episodes in The Pilgrim's Progress book series: Episode 1: https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-xagb6-15a7cd1 Episode 2: https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-yd3a6-15e351c Episode 3: https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-etvjk-16d1999 Episode 4: https://theologyonthego.podbean.com/e/the-pilgrims-progress-part-4/

Why did the the Puritan movement start, and when did Puritans decide to travel to the New World? The Rev. Dr. Cameron A. MacKenzie, Professor of Historical Theology at Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, Indiana, joins Andy and Sarah for our nine-episode series, “Pilgrims, Puritans, and the Founding of New England.” In episode 1, we continue where our last series left off with the Puritan movement in England to revisit how that movement started, how King James played a role in the Puritan movement in Great Britain, and what led the Pilgrims and Puritans to leave England for the New World between 1620-1640. Resources in this episode: All episodes in The Puritan Movement series Find more from Dr. MacKenzie here Recommended reading from Dr. MacKenzie includes: Worldly Saints by Leland Ryken, English Puritanism by John Spurr,  Reformation in England  by Peter Marshall,  Puritan Christianity in America: Religion and Life in 17th Century Massachusetts  by  John Carden, and  Pilgrim's Progress  by John Bunyan. As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

In this part of The Pilgrim's Progress, we journey alongside Faithful and Christian as they encounter a curious character named Talkative. As they traverse the path to the heavenly country, Faithful engages Talkative in a conversation that reveals the stark contrast between mere words and genuine faith. Talkative, who appears charming and eloquent at a distance, soon exposes the emptiness of his religious profession when scrutinized closely.Through their dialogue, Faithful emphasizes the importance of authentic spirituality, urging that true religion is rooted not in talk only, but in action. The discussion becomes a profound exploration of grace, the necessity of a transformed heart, and the dangers of superficial faith. Christian shares his insights on Talkative's character, highlighting the peril of being deceived by outward appearances.Join us as we delve into the themes of sincerity, the power of genuine faith, and the call to live out our beliefs in our daily lives. This part serves as a reminder that true Christianity is marked by the fruits of the Spirit, not just the sound of eloquent words.Minor updating has been done to make this recording more understandable.If you would like to pick up a copy of The Pilgrim's Progress to add to your home library, we have listed some of our favorites below. And we were sure to include one of our favorites rewritten for children. (affil links)The Pilgrim's Progress Old English: https://amzn.to/4j1j3XgThe Pilgrim's Progress Modern English: https://amzn.to/3W3SNlvLittle Pilgrim's Big Journey: https://amzn.to/41YDs9GIf you appreciate our content and would like to support our mission, consider contributing through these platforms:▪️ Buy Me a Coffee: buymeacoffee.com/wanderingpilgrims▪️ Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/TheWanderingPilgrims▪️ Shop: https://teespring.com/stores/the-wandering-pilgrims▪️ Our Website: www.thewanderingpilgrims.comConnect with us for more insights and updates:▪️ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewanderingpilgrims/▪️ Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/The-Wandering-Pilgrims-581206039071736/

In the first episode of our weekly Lenten series, we invite you to take a moment to slow down, quiet your heart, and hear what God may be saying to you. Throughout the season of Lent, we'll be releasing weekly episodes focused on themes of reflection, prayer, and contemplation.On March 19, 2021 we were delighted to host Christian author, leader, and teacher, Ruth Haley Barton. Barton is founding President/CEO of the Transforming Center, a ministry dedicated to strengthening the souls of Christian leaders and the congregations and organizations they serve. Ruth is the author of numerous books and resources on the spiritual life, including Strengthening the Soul of Your Leadership and Sacred Rhythms. She reflects regularly on spirituality and leadership in her blog, Beyond Words, and on her podcast Strengthening the Soul of Your Leadership.We hope you enjoy this conversation around her book, Invitation to Solitude and Silence: Experiencing God's Transforming Presence. Our attention, Barton believes, has become a commodity that we must protect if we are to avoid being swept away by our distracted age. She invites listeners to engage in these ancient biblical practices to find the rest for our souls that Jesus promises. In this Lenten season, we hope this will inspire you to pursue God's transforming presence in new ways and contemplatively sit in solitude and silence with the Author and Perfecter of our faith. Learn more about Ruth Haley Barton. Watch the full Online Conversation and read the transcript from March 19, 2021. Related reading:A Shocking Lack of Solitude, Cherie Harder Authors and books mentioned in the conversation:Blaise PascalJohn MiltonC.S. LewisRichard RohrDallas WillardHenry NouwenShop Class as Soulcraft, by Matthew B. CrawfordRabbi Abraham Joshua HeschelJulian of NorwichInvitation to Solitude and Silence: Experiencing God's Transforming Presence, by Ruth Haley Barton Related Trinity Forum Readings:Confessions | A Trinity Forum Reading by St. Augustine, introduced by James K.A. Smith.Pilgrim at Tinker Creek | A Trinity Forum Reading by Annie Dillard, introduced by Tish Harrison Warren.Devotions | A Trinity Forum Reading by John Donne, introduced and paraphrased by Philip Yancey.The Long Loneliness | A Trinity Forum Reading by Dorothy Day, introduced by Anne and David Brooks.Wrestling with God | A Trinity Forum Reading by Simone Weil, introduced by Alonzo McDonald.The Pilgrim's Progress | A Trinity Forum Reading by John Bunyan, introduced by Alonzo McDonald.

In this par of The Pilgrim's Progress, we continue our journey alongside Christian and Faithful as they traverse the challenging terrain of their pilgrimage. Christian, eager to join his companion, races ahead but soon finds himself humbled by a sudden fall. Their heartfelt reunion leads to a rich exchange about their respective journeys, trials, and the dangers they have faced along the way.As they walk together, Christian learns of Faithful's encounters with the treacherous figures that sought to lead him astray, including the alluring Wanton and the cunning Adam I, who promised worldly delights but concealed a sinister agenda. Faithful's steadfast refusal to succumb to temptation serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of remaining vigilant in one's faith.The conversation deepens as they reflect on the fate of their former neighbor, Pliable, whose return to the City of Destruction has left him ridiculed and shunned. Faithful's poignant observations about the nature of shame and the societal pressures faced by pilgrims resonate deeply, illustrating the internal struggles that accompany their external journeys.Christian shares his own harrowing experience in the Valley of the Shadow of Death, where he battled the formidable Apollyon. His story of divine deliverance amidst despair highlights the overarching theme of hope and reliance on God's strength in times of trial. Together, they encourage one another to persevere, recognizing that the path of the pilgrim is fraught with challenges but ultimately leads to glory.Join us as we delve into the trials and triumphs of these two pilgrims, exploring the profound lessons of faith, temptation, and the unwavering support of fellowship that guide them on their journey.Minor updating has been done to make this recording more understandable.If you would like to pick up a copy of The Pilgrim's Progress to add to your home library, we have listed some of our favorites below. And we were sure to include one of our favorites rewritten for children. (affil links)The Pilgrim's Progress Old English: https://amzn.to/4j1j3XgThe Pilgrim's Progress Modern English: https://amzn.to/3W3SNlvLittle Pilgrim's Big Journey: https://amzn.to/41YDs9GSupport our mission:▪️ Buy Me a Coffee: buymeacoffee.com/wanderingpilgrims▪️ Patreon: patreon.com/TheWanderingPilgrims▪️ Shop: teespring.com/stores/the-wandering-pilgrims▪️ Our Website: www.thewanderingpilgrims.comConnect with us on social media for more inspiring content:▪️ Instagram: instagram.com/thewanderingpilgrims▪️ Facebook: facebook.com/The-Wandering-Pilgrims▪️ YouTube: youtube.com/channel/UCbvMuDo9dpaQ0Bu71lRRiQw▪️ Twitter: @WanderPilgrims▪️ Truth Social: @wanderingpilgrims

The Power of the Pivot #RTTBROS #Nightlight The Power of the Pivot "And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose." - Romans 8:28 (KJV)In the quiet cell of the Bedford jail, John Bunyan's quill scratched across parchment, forming what would become one of Christianity's most enduring allegories. The preacher, silenced by imprisonment, found his voice through ink and paper. When the pulpit was taken from him, he did not cease his ministry—he pivoted.The greatest ability in God's service is availability, but closely following is adaptability. When our carefully constructed plans crumble, when doors slam shut before us, the mature believer doesn't retreat in defeat but seeks new avenues of service. Spurgeon himself testified to this truth, declaring that when unable to preach through physical pain, he took up his pen to write books for Jesus, and when even that became impossible, he sought someone—anyone—with whom he could share his Master's message.Consider David Brainerd, who when bedridden with the illness that would eventually claim his life, spent his final energies teaching a Native American child his letters so the young boy might one day read Scripture for himself. He declared, "If I cannot serve God one way, I will another. I will never leave off this blessed service."The Bible is filled with such pivots. Joseph, sold into slavery and later imprisoned, never abandoned his faith. Instead, he embraced each new circumstance as an opportunity to serve. As he later told his brothers in Genesis 50:20 (KJV): "But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive."The Apostle Paul, confined to prison, penned epistles that have guided the church for centuries. His chains, rather than hindering the gospel, advanced it. "But I would ye should understand, brethren, that the things which happened unto me have fallen out rather unto the furtherance of the gospel" (Philippians 1:12, KJV).Too often, we approach God's service with conditions and limitations. We tell the Lord what we will do and what we won't, what gifts we'll use and which ones we'll keep tucked away. We imagine ourselves serving in particular ways, in specific places, with certain people—and when reality doesn't match our expectations, we grow discouraged.Yet true service to God requires surrendering not just our availability but our preferences. It means saying, "Lord, here am I," without adding, "but only if..."The pivots in our journey are not detours from God's plan but essential parts of it. When one door closes, we must look for the window God has opened. When one method becomes impossible, we search for alternatives. When we can no longer serve in ways that showcase our strengths, we humbly embrace new tasks that might reveal our weaknesses—and God's sufficiency.Perhaps today you face an unexpected change in your ministry or service. Maybe illness has confined you, relationships have shifted, or opportunities have vanished. Remember the power of the pivot. Your circumstances may change, but your calling remains. Your methods may evolve, but your mission continues.Like Bunyan, when you cannot preach, perhaps you can write. Like Brainerd, when you cannot go, perhaps you can teach. Like Spurgeon, when one avenue of service closes, perhaps another awaits your discovery.

On the first episode of Three Ravens Series 6, we are making a right old fuss about an often overlooked county when it comes to folklore - Bedfordshire, the county of John Bunyan, little blue spacemen, and mysterious Medieval serial killers... We start off chatting about both St Winwaloe's Day, which is surprisingly saucy actually, and all the madness of Shrove Monday, after which we bustle across to Bedfordshire!After chatting through some amazing aspects of Bedfordshire's history, as represented by three pretty jaw-dropping historical finds, including the Dunstable Swan Jewel, a magical Viking sword, and a bunch of long-hidden skeletons, Martin then sits us down for Afternoon Tea, revisits the topic of Clangers, and introduces us to Chocolate Toothpaste, all of which are contenders for Bedfordshire's County Dish!After that, we get stuck into some folklore, including the spooky afterlife of the airmen who died in the R101 airship disaster, the now-leveled ancient henge arena and worship ground where the Celtic god Lugh drank the wellsprings of revelation, and discuss Bedfordshire's plethora of Shucks - all supplemented by some excerpts from next Saturday's Local Legends interview with local historian David Longman, who has a very naughty rector he wants to warn you about...Then it's on to the main event: Martin's story "The Devil's Fingermarks" which combines the Dark Lord himself with horse-stealing Georgians, Horace Walpole, William Beckford, and a rather haunted gothic castle!We really hope you enjoy it, will be back on Thursday with a new Magic and Medicines bonus episode about Ley Lines (and for the Three Ravens Second Birthday Livestream on YouTube!) all before the full interview with David comes out on Saturday!The Three Ravens is an English Myth and Folklore podcast hosted by award-winning writers Martin Vaux and Eleanor Conlon.Released on Mondays, each weekly episode focuses on one of England's 39 historic counties, exploring the history, folklore and traditions of the area, from ghosts and mermaids to mythical monsters, half-forgotten heroes, bloody legends, and much, much more. Then, and most importantly, the pair take turns to tell a new version of an ancient story from that county - all before discussing what that tale might mean, where it might have come from, and the truths it reveals about England's hidden past...Bonus Episodes are released on Thursdays plus Local Legends episodes on Saturdays - interviews with acclaimed authors, folklorists, podcasters and historians with unique perspectives on that week's county.With a range of exclusive content on Patreon, too, including audio ghost tours, the Three Ravens Newsletter, and monthly Three Ravens Film Club episodes about folk horror films from across the decades, why not join us around the campfire and listen in?Learn more at www.threeravenspodcast.com, join our Patreon at www.patreon.com/threeravenspodcast, and find links to our social media channels here: https://linktr.ee/threeravenspodcast Get bonus content on Patreon Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, we accompany Christian through the harrowing Valley of the Shadow of Death, a treacherous path that tests his faith and resolve. As he ventures deeper, he encounters ominous figures and hears the chilling echoes of despair that haunt this desolate place. The valley, described as a wilderness filled with darkness and danger, serves as a metaphor for the trials we face in our own lives.Christian's journey is fraught with peril. He grapples with the haunting presence of hobgoblins, satyrs, and dragons that lurk in the shadows, and he is tormented by blasphemous thoughts that threaten to tear at his very soul. Yet, amidst the chaos, he clings to the hope inspired by a voice that reminds him of God's unwavering presence, even in the darkest of times.As dawn breaks, illuminating the path ahead, Christian reflects on the dangers he has overcome and the mercies he has received. The light reveals the snares and pitfalls that once seemed insurmountable, allowing him to navigate the treacherous terrain with newfound clarity. Join us as we explore the profound themes of faith, perseverance, and divine deliverance that resonate throughout this poignant narrative.Minor updating has been done to make this recording more understandable.If you would like to pick up a copy of The Pilgrim's Progress to add to your home library, we have listed some of our favorites below. And we were sure to include one of our favorites rewritten for children. (affil links)The Pilgrim's Progress Old English: https://amzn.to/4j1j3XgThe Pilgrim's Progress Modern English: https://amzn.to/3W3SNlvLittle Pilgrim's Big Journey: https://amzn.to/41YDs9GIf you enjoy our podcast and wish to support our mission, consider contributing through Buy Me a Coffee, Patreon, or our shop. Your support helps us continue sharing these inspiring stories.Support our mission:▪️ Buy Me a Coffee: buymeacoffee.com/wanderingpilgrims▪️ Patreon: patreon.com/TheWanderingPilgrims▪️ Shop: teespring.com/stores/the-wandering-pilgrims▪️ Our Website: www.thewanderingpilgrims.comConnect with us on social media for more inspiring content:▪️ Instagram: instagram.com/thewanderingpilgrims▪️ Facebook: facebook.com/The-Wandering-Pilgrims▪️ YouTube: youtube.com/channel/UCbvMuDo9dpaQ0Bu71lRRiQw▪️ Twitter: @WanderPilgrims▪️ Truth Social: @wanderingpilgrims

QUOTES FOR REFLECTION“Come to me, all of you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, because I am lowly and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”~Matthew 11:28-30 (CSB) “O soul, are you weary and troubled?No light in the darkness you see?There's light for a look at the Savior,And life more abundant and free! Turn your eyes upon Jesus,Look full in His wonderful face,And the things of earth will grow strangely dim,In the light of His glory and grace.”~“Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus,” by Helen Lemmel, 1922 “A man there was, though some did count him mad, the more he cast away the more he had.”~John Bunyan, The Pilgrim's ProgressSERMON PASSAGEHebrews 4:1-13 (ESV) 1 Therefore, while the promise of entering his rest still stands, let us fear lest any of you should seem to have failed to reach it. 2 For good news came to us just as to them, but the message they heard did not benefit them, because they were not united by faith with those who listened. 3 For we who have believed enter that rest, as he has said, “As I swore in my wrath, ‘They shall not enter my rest,'”  although his works were finished from the foundation of the world. 4 For he has somewhere spoken of the seventh day in this way: “And God rested on the seventh day from all his works.” 5 And again in this passage he said, “They shall not enter my rest.”6 Since therefore it remains for some to enter it, and those who formerly received the good news failed to enter because of disobedience, 7 again he appoints a certain day, “Today,” saying through David so long afterward, in the words already quoted, “Today, if you hear his voice,  do not harden your hearts.” 8 For if Joshua had given them rest, God would not have spoken of another day later on. 9 So then, there remains a Sabbath rest for the people of God, 10 for whoever has entered God's rest has also rested from his works as God did from his. 11 Let us therefore strive to enter that rest, so that no one may fall by the same sort of disobedience. 12 For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. 13 And no creature is hidden from his sight, but all are naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom we must give account.

Today, we follow Christian as he navigates the treacherous descent into the Valley of Humiliation. As he cautiously makes his way down the hill, Christian reflects on the dangers that lie ahead, knowing that the path is fraught with peril. His journey takes a dramatic turn when he encounters Apollyon, a fearsome fiend who embodies the very essence of temptation and despair. In the confrontation between Christian and Apollyon, Christian must summon all his courage to stand firm against the dark forces that seek to lead him astray. Despite the monster's hideous appearance and fiery threats, Christian's steadfast faith and determination shine through. As they engage in a fierce struggle, Christian is wounded but refuses to succumb to despair. His resilience is a testament to the transformative power of faith, as he ultimately overcomes the adversary with the help of divine strength. Join us as we explore the profound themes of faith, struggle, and redemption in this powerful narrative, reflecting on the lessons learned from Christian's harrowing encounter. If you find our content enriching and wish to support us, consider contributing through Buy Me a Coffee, Patreon, or visiting our shop. You can also connect with us on our website, Instagram, and Facebook pages. Links are provided below. *Minor modernization has been added* If you would like to pick up a copy of The Pilgrim's Progress to add to your home library, we have listed some of our favorites below. And we were sure to include one of our favorites rewritten for children. (affil links) The Pilgrim's Progress Old English: https://amzn.to/4j1j3Xg The Pilgrim's Progress Modern English: https://amzn.to/3W3SNlv Little Pilgrim's Big Journey: https://amzn.to/41YDs9G Support our mission: ▪️ Buy Me a Coffee: buymeacoffee.com/wanderingpilgrims ▪️ Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/TheWanderingPilgrims ▪️ Shop: https://teespring.com/stores/the-wandering-pilgrims ▪️ Our Website: www.thewanderingpilgrims.com Connect with us: ▪️ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewanderingpilgrims/ ▪️ Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/The-Wandering-Pilgrims-581206039071736/

It's Wednesday, February 19th, A.D. 2025. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 125 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Jonathan Clark Christians faced the most murders and abductions in Africa Global Christian Relief released the Violent Incidents Database last month in partnership with the International Institute for Religious Freedom. The publicly accessible resource records over 6,000 verified incidents of religious persecution starting from 2022. Christians faced the most murders and abductions in Africa according to the database. Europe led in terms of damage to religious buildings. Believers faced the most sentences and arrests in Asia. Asia also led in terms of attacks on houses and people being forced to leave their home or country.   Global Christian Relief reported Nigeria, India, China, and Azerbaijan were some of the worst countries for the persecution of Christians in their 2025 Red List Report.  British woman in trouble for holding pro-life sign outside abortion mill A retired medical scientist in England will face trial next month for her pro-life work. The case began when authorities confronted 63-year-old Livia Tossici-Bolt for holding a sign near an abortion mill. The sign read “Here to talk, if you want to.”  Jeremiah Igunnubole, Legal Counsel for Alliance Defending Freedom UK, noted, “Under far-reaching and vaguely-written rules, we have seen volunteers like Livia criminalized simply for offering conversations to those in need; and others dragged through courts for praying, even silently, in their minds.” Christian physician assistant fired for affirming two genders In the United States, a Christian healthcare worker is fighting for her religious freedom with the help of First Liberty. Back in 2021, the University of Michigan Health System fired Valerie Kloosterman. The physician assistant lost her job for remaining committed to the Biblical definition of male and female. She took her case to the 6th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals earlier this month. Kloosterman said, “I couldn't do this without my faith. This battle belongs to the Lord. I'm His instrument and I'm required to be faithful. I'm hoping that I do that every step of this process even though it can be difficult and hard.” 2 Chronicles 20:15 says, “Thus says the LORD to you: ‘Do not be afraid nor dismayed because of this great multitude, for the battle is not yours, but God's.” Trump announces reciprocal tariffs President Donald Trump announced reciprocal tariffs on Monday. He wrote on X, “On Trade, I have decided, for purposes of Fairness, that I will charge a RECIPROCAL Tariff -- meaning whatever Countries charge the United States of America, we will charge them. No more, no less!” A Trump administration official told The Hill the tariffs will apply equally to competitors, like communist China, or allies like the European Union or Japan or Korea. JP Morgan, Citigroup, & Morgan Stanley scrub DEI nonsense Big banks in the U.S. are reacting to President Trump's executive order against diversity, equity, and inclusion programs, also known as DEI. Banks like Morgan Stanley, JPMorgan, and Citigroup have scrubbed their public references to DEI in recent weeks, reports The Wall Street Journal.  A White House fact sheet from last month noted, “In the private sector, many corporations and universities use DEI as an excuse for biased and unlawful employment practices and illegal admissions preferences, ignoring the fact that DEI's foundational rhetoric and ideas foster intergroup hostility.” Delta plane crashed at Canadian airport, flipped upside down A Delta Air Lines jet crashed at Canada's Toronto Pearson International Airport on Monday, reports Fox News. The flight was carrying 80 people on board from Minneapolis.  The plane ended upside down on the runway, leaving passengers hanging from their seats “like bats” as one passenger described.  At least 21 people were injured, but thankfully no one died in the crash.  Republican Rep. Pete Stauber of Minnesota said, “I am praying for those involved and will continue to monitor this situation as details emerge. I am incredibly grateful for the quick response of the first responders on the ground!”  Anniversary of John Bunyan's Pilgrim's Progress And finally, this week is the 347th anniversary of the publication of John Bunyan's Pilgrim's Progress. His first volume of the book was announced on February 18, 1678. With 250 million copies sold, it's one of the best-selling books of all time.  If you don't have a copy, pick up one today. It's a must have volume for every Christian's library. Bunyan began the work from prison. He was sentenced for holding unsanctioned religious services. Despite suffering for his faith, he would produce a Christian classic that would influence the church for centuries.  The 19th century English preacher Charles Spurgeon said of Bunyan, “Read anything of his, and you will see that it is almost like reading the Bible itself. He had read it till his very soul was saturated with Scripture; and though his writings are charmingly full of poetry, yet he cannot give us his Pilgrim's Progress—that sweetest of all prose poems—without continually making us feel and say, ‘Why, this man is a living Bible!'” Jeremiah 15:16 says, “Your words were found, and I ate them, and Your word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart; for I am called by Your name, O LORD God of hosts.” Close And that's The Worldview on this Wednesday, February 19th, in the year of our Lord 2025. Subscribe by Amazon Music or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

On this segment of Discipleship for Dads, Kevin, Danny Craig, and Todd Strawser address the sensitive but important topic of sexuality. Our world is an individualized world, with more access to pornography than ever before. However, Jesus came to save us from our sin. Instead of breeding an environment of condemnation, shame, and guilt, it's important to have a culture of open communication and confession in the home, especially when it comes to sexual sin.This program includes:1. The World View in 5 Minutes with Adam McManus (Anniversary of John Bunyan's Pilgrim's Progress, Delta plane crashed at airport & flipped upside down, Christian physician assistant fired for affirming two genders)2. Generations with Kevin Swanson

Have you ever read Pilgrim's Progress? It's a book (an allegory) by John Bunyan which portrays the joys and struggles of Christian, a pilgrim. In these adventures, we see many truths of Scripture illustrated in helpful ways.

In this enchanting part of The Pilgrim's Progress, we journey alongside Christian as he navigates the path toward Mount Zion. Our narrative unfolds with Christian's encounter with the daunting lions guarding the way, a powerful metaphor for the trials of faith that every pilgrim must face. Guided by the watchful porter, Christian learns that these lions, though fearsome, are chained—representing the obstacles that test our resolve but do not ultimately harm us. As Christian arrives at the palace beautiful built by the Lord of the hill, he is welcomed by the kind-hearted family of the house, including the wise and discerning damsel, Discretion. Their warm hospitality offers him not just physical shelter but spiritual nourishment as they engage in heartfelt discussions about his pilgrimage, past struggles, and the lessons learned along the way. Through Christian's reflections, we explore the themes of redemption, the importance of community, and the relentless pursuit of a better, heavenly place. His poignant recollections of encounters with Evangelist and the Interpreter serve as reminders of God's guiding hand in our lives, even in moments of doubt and despair. Join us as we delve into the rich tapestry of Christian's journey, filled with wisdom, encouragement, and the hope of eternal fellowship. This part is a celebration of the pilgrim's path—a path fraught with challenges yet illuminated by the promise of grace. Minor updating has been done to make this recording more understandable. If you would like to pick up a copy of The Pilgrim's Progress to add to your home library, we have listed some of our favorites below. And we were sure to include one of our favorites rewritten for children. (affil links) The Pilgrim's Progress Old English: https://amzn.to/4j1j3Xg The Pilgrim's Progress Modern English: https://amzn.to/3W3SNlv Little Pilgrim's Big Journey: https://amzn.to/41YDs9G If you enjoy our podcast and wish to support our mission, consider contributing through Buy Me a Coffee, Patreon, or our shop. Your support helps us continue sharing these inspiring stories. You can support us here: ▪️Buy Me a Coffee: buymeacoffee.com/wanderingpilgrims ▪️Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/TheWanderingPilgrims ▪️Shop: https://teespring.com/stores/the-wandering-pilgrims ▪️Our Website: www.thewanderingpilgrims.com Connect with us here: ▪️Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewanderingpilgrims/ ▪️Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/The-Wandering-Pilgrims-581206039071736/ ▪️YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCbvMuDo9dpaQ0Bu71lRRiQw ▪️Twitter: @WanderPilgrims ▪️Truth Social: @wanderingpilgrims

Embark on a captivating journey with us in part 6 of The Pilgrim's Progress, as we follow Christian's arduous trek up a steep hill. Witness Christian's transition from running to clambering on hands and knees, seeking respite in a divine arbor, only to fall into a slumber that costs him dearly. His roll, a symbol of comfort and assurance, slips from his grasp, setting off a chain of introspection and regret. Awakened by a stern reminder of diligence, Christian resumes his path, only to encounter Timorous and Mistrust, who flee from the dangers ahead. Torn between fear and the promise of salvation, Christian chooses to press forward, only to realize his roll is missing. In a moment of despair, he retraces his steps, lamenting the folly of his sleep and the lost time. Join us as we explore the themes of vigilance, repentance, and perseverance. Christian's journey is a reflection of the human struggle against complacency and the quest for redemption. His eventual rediscovery of the roll brings a surge of joy and gratitude, propelling him up the hill with newfound vigor. Yet, as darkness falls, he is reminded of the lurking dangers and the consequences of his earlier lapse. Christian's encounter with the stately palace Beautiful, offers a glimmer of hope and a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. This part invites you to reflect on the trials of the pilgrim's path and the enduring pursuit of a higher truth. Minor changes have been made to the original text for readability and understanding purposes. If you would like to pick up a copy of The Pilgrim's Progress to add to your home library, we have listed some of our favorites below. And we were sure to include one of our favorites rewritten for children. (affil links) The Pilgrim's Progress Old English: https://amzn.to/4j1j3Xg The Pilgrim's Progress Modern English: https://amzn.to/3W3SNlv Little Pilgrim's Big Journey: https://amzn.to/41YDs9G If you enjoy our content and wish to support us in producing more episodes, consider supporting us through these links: ▪️ Buy Me a Coffee: buymeacoffee.com/wanderingpilgrims ▪️ Patreon: patreon.com/TheWanderingPilgrims ▪️ Shop: teespring.com/stores/the-wandering-pilgrims ▪️ Our Website: www.thewanderingpilgrims.com Connect with us on social media for more inspiring content: ▪️ Instagram: instagram.com/thewanderingpilgrims ▪️ Facebook: facebook.com/The-Wandering-Pilgrims ▪️ YouTube: youtube.com/channel/UCbvMuDo9dpaQ0Bu71lRRiQw ▪️ Twitter: @WanderPilgrims ▪️ Truth Social: @wanderingpilgrims

Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and follow us on Facebook also leave us a review If You Like To donate to this podcast you can through cashapp or email us at brothersjustsearchingpodcast@gmail.com for more info Anything is appreciated Cashapp info BJSmedia This podcast is brought to you by BJS MEDIA. A christian media production from the swamps of Louisiana. Teaching THE WORD OF GOD (The Bible) and discussing religion, cults, and other world events. Brothers Just Searching Links Check out our website https://brothersjustsearching.wordpress.com/ Check out Our Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/bjspodcast Check out our YouTube Channel https://youtube.com/channel/UCSKi3Aywyd1PQWQ5K1rrIUA https://campsite.to/bjsmedia This is where you can listen to our podcast “Brothers Just Searching”. Below me :). Apple Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/brothers-just-searching/id1490823255?uo=4 Google Podcast https://www.google.com/podcasts?feed=aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy8xMDk2MjdhMC9wb2RjYXN0L3Jzcw== Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/0xxj0itGZrlN6EvUpHnel1 Breaker https://www.breaker.audio/brothers-just-searching Overcast https://overcast.fm/itunes1490823255/brothers-just-searching Pocket Casts https://pca.st/7uduo3tz Radio Public https://radiopublic.com/brothers-just-searching-G7PLoE Brother Anthony Hayes Book The New Kingdom: with Liberty Man and The Evil Stone https://www.amazon.com/dp/1630502227/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_FY4dFbPMNKX8R New Beginning Fellowship Church New Beginning FC https://www.facebook.com/NewBeginningFellowshipChurchTB/ Coteau Holmes Fellowship Church https://www.facebook.com/coteauholmesfellowship/ Music Provided By Ultima Thule by a href="https://app.sessions.blue/browse/track/51198"Blue Dot Sessions/a - [ ]

We continue with our survey of the open and closed communion debate in preparation for a later review of John Collett Ryland's principles and practices related to it. Next I'll review the interactions of John Bunyan and William Kiffen.   For more information about CBTS, visit CBTSeminary.org

We continue with our survey of the open and closed communion debate in preparation for a later review of John Collett Ryland's principles and practices related to it. Next I'll review the interactions of John Bunyan and William Kiffen. For more information about CBTS, visit CBTSeminary.org