Podcast appearances and mentions of John the Baptist

Topics:  Wisdom, A Challenge From Spike, John the Baptist, Contentment, Words, Super Bowl BONUS CONTENT: Super Bowl & The Camera   Quotes: "God's wisdom comes with meekness." "We have to be careful who's actually influencing us." "You're playing from a strong hand when you trust the Lord." "So it's just always the Super Bowl?" . . . Holy Ghost Mama Pre-Order! Want more of the Oddcast? Check out our website! Watch our YouTube videos here. Connect with us on Facebook!

Today's Scripture passages are Exodus 12:31 - 14:4 | Matthew 11:1-19 | Luke 7:18-35.Read by Ekemini Uwan.Get in The Word with Truth's Table is a production of InterVarsity Press. For 75 years, IVP has published and created thoughtful Christian books for the university, church, and the world. Our Bible reading plan is adapted from Bible Study Together, and the Bible version is the New English Translation, used by permission.SPECIAL OFFER | As a listener of this podcast, use code LAUNCH30 at checkout for 30% off the ⁠Get in The Word with Truth's Table Video Bible Studies!Additional Credits:Song production: Seaux ChillSong lyrics written by: Seaux Chill, Ekemini Uwan, and Christina EdmondsonPodcast art: Kate LillardPhotography: Shelly EveBible consultant: JM SmithSound engineering: Podastery StudiosCreative producers: Ekemini Uwan and Christina EdmondsonAssistant producer: Christine Pelliccio MeloExecutive producer: Helen LeeTo reach the IVP podcast team, please use this form.Disclaimer: The comments, views, and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the host and/or the guests featured on the podcast and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of InterVarsity Press or InterVarsity Christian Fellowship.

In this episode, John the Baptist questions if Jesus is the one to come or if they should expect someone else. Jesus says "Blessed is the one who does not stumble on account of me!"

#top .av-special-heading.av-gs9o3p-275f14b541cd96bf748491de59d42bd2{ padding-bottom:10px; } body .av-special-heading.av-gs9o3p-275f14b541cd96bf748491de59d42bd2 .av-special-heading-tag .heading-char{ font-size:25px; } .av-special-heading.av-gs9o3p-275f14b541cd96bf748491de59d42bd2 .av-subheading{ font-size:15px; } Through My Bible Yr 03 – February 24Luke 9:18-36 LISTEN HERE Through My Bible – February 24 Luke 9:18-36 (EHV) https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/tmb-ehv/03-0224db.mp3 See series: Through My Bible Luke 9 Jesus Is the Christ 18 One time when Jesus was praying alone and the disciples were with him, he asked them, “Who do the crowds say that I am?” 19 They answered, “‘John the Baptist,' but others say, ‘Elijah,' and others say, ‘one of the ancient prophets come back to life.'” 20 He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” And Peter answered, “The Christ of God.” 21 He gave them a strict command not to tell this to anyone. 22 He said, “The Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders, chief priests, and experts in the law. He must be killed and be raised on the third day.” Take Up the Cross 23 Jesus said to all of them, “If anyone wants to come after me, let him deny himself, take up his cross daily, and follow me. 24 For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it. 25 After all, what will it benefit a man if he gains the whole world, but destroys himself or is lost? 26 In fact, whoever is ashamed of me and my words, the Son of Man will be ashamed of him when he comes in his glory, and the glory of the Father, and of the holy angels. 27 I am telling you the truth: There are some standing here who will certainly not taste death until they see the kingdom of God.” The Transfiguration 28 About eight days after he said these words, Jesus took Peter, John, and James and went up on the mountain to pray. 29 While he was praying, the appearance of his face changed, and his clothing became dazzling white. 30 Just then, two men, Moses and Elijah, were talking with him! 31 They appeared in glory and were talking about his departure, [1] which he was going to bring to fulfillment in Jerusalem. 32 Peter and those with him were weighed down with sleep, but when they were completely awake, they saw his glory and the two men standing with him. 33 As the men were leaving Jesus, Peter said to him, “Master, it is good for us to be here. Let's make three tents: one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” He did not realize what he was saying. 34 While he was saying these things, a cloud came and overshadowed them. They were afraid as they went into the cloud. 35 Then a voice came out of the cloud, saying, “This is my Son, whom I love. [2] Listen to him!” 36 After the voice had spoken, they found Jesus alone. They kept this secret and told no one in those days any of the things they had seen. Footnotes Luke 9:31 Or exodus Luke 9:35 A few witnesses to the text read my chosen one instead of whom I love. #top .hr.hr-invisible.av-aocsdx-89cb4ca21532423cf697fc393b6fcee0{ height:10px; } The Holy Bible, Evangelical Heritage Version®, EHV®, © 2019 Wartburg Project, Inc. All rights reserved. #top .hr.hr-invisible.av-4vzadh-3f04b370105df1fd314a2a9d83e55b26{ height:50px; } Share this entryShare on FacebookShare on LinkedInShare by MailLink to FlickrLink to InstagramLink to Vimeo

My friend Butch Briggs has been the beloved coach for the swim teams at a local high school for fifty-one years. Out of curiosity, I asked him how many state championships he’d won during his five decades. In his trademark gentle tone he quipped, “I’ve not won a single championship because I’ve never swum in a single race.” Trying again I asked him, “How many championships have your swimmers won?” He happily responded, “Thirty-nine.” Butch taught me a valuable lesson. A coach plays an important role, but he didn’t want to take credit for what his swimmers accomplished. Butch’s humility reminds me of how John the Baptist saw his role. John was tasked with pointing people to Jesus as the Messiah—the one who fulfilled God’s promise to send a rescuer. But John garnered so much attention that the religious leaders wanted to find out exactly who he was. In response, Scripture records that John “confessed freely, ‘I am not the Messiah’ ” (John 1:20). Even when they pressed him, John was clear that his role was to announce Jesus’ arrival (vv. 21-23). Jesus was the one they’d longed for (v. 27). This aspect of humility—not taking more credit than is due—is a way we can keep a proper perspective regarding our accomplishments while recognizing others for the assignments or roles they’ve been given.

Now it happened that as [Jesus] was praying alone, the disciples were with Him. And He asked them, “Who do the crowds say that I am?” And they answered, “John the Baptist. But others say, Elijah, and others, that one of the prophets of old has risen.” Then He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” And Peter answered, “The Christ of God.” And He strictly charged and commanded them to tell this to no one, saying, “The Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and on the third day be raised.” (Luke 9:18-22)

Our view of Jesus affects the way we view God, the world, ourselves, and every one of our decisions. What we do with Jesus determines where we will spend eternity. In this series, The Person of Jesus, we will get a glimpse into the life of Christ. We will come face to face with the Savior. We will learn about His attributes, His character, and His love for all mankind. No one on earth has changed the face of history like the Lord Jesus Christ. No matter your past, Jesus Christ can forgive you and change your life forever.

Fr. Michael Copenhagen is a Melkite (Eastern Catholic) priest, husband, and father at St. Nicholas the Wonderworker Melkite Catholic Church in Gates, New York. He holds a Bachelor's of Sacred Theology from the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas in Rome. Show Resources Philip Kruse's story: https://philipkru.se/my-search-for-a-living-liver-donor   In Today's Show: Recommendations for couples to turn a new leaf in marriage. How is praying with icons done from a Western perspective? Are the Ten Commandments 30% transcendental and 70% earthly? Why was Jacob chosen for God's covenant over Esau? Why did John the Baptist say he didn't know Jesus in John 1:33 when they were cousins? Why does the rosary have no beads for the Glory Be? How can a Christian survive without a church in an oppressive country? Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

This Sunday, we look at John the Baptist introducing the Lamb of God and baptizing Jesus. Looking at these passages through the gospels, we see the importance of the preparation of Jesus' ministry and how it applies to us today.

Start with a breath: Psalm 39 names the brevity of life and the only hope that holds when wealth, status, and fury fail. From that quiet center, we move into the heart of covenant—marriage as the exclusive union that reorders our priorities and pushes back against the temptation to treat a spouse like an accessory. Then we follow Jesus to Nazareth, where familiarity breeds unbelief, and watch him send the twelve two by two, a pattern of mission, accountability, and trust that still beats solo bravado and cultural noise.The story of John the Baptist's beheading exposes how vanity, spectacle, and rash vows corrode leadership. That warning sets the stage for Jonathan Mayhew's piercing read of Romans 13: the call to submit to higher powers applies to rulers who actually do the work of ruling—praising good and punishing evil. When authorities reverse that order, they forfeit any claim to Christian obedience. We connect those principles to modern examples, from ideologies that radicalize students toward violence to the way public life falters when God is cut from the moral core of education and civic vision.Against that darkness, we raise the bright courage of Sergeant First Class Nelson V. Brittin, whose Medal of Honor valor reminds us what duty, sacrifice, and honor look like in flesh and blood. Throughout, we pray for families, bless those who serve in danger, and ask hard questions about how to live faithfully: guard your words, keep your vows, hold fast to your marriage, and measure leaders by the justice they pursue. If this conversation strengthens your resolve, share it with a friend, leave a review, and subscribe so you don't miss what comes next.#MollyTibbetts #DailyScripture #JonathanMayhewSupport the showThe American Soul Podcasthttps://www.buzzsprout.com/1791934/subscribe Countryside Book Series https://www.amazon.com/Countryside-Book-J-T-Cope-IV-ebook/dp/B00MPIXOB2

We continue on with the message of John the Baptist. He has called people to turn to God and to display the fruit of Godly living. He has given the warning, the axe is at the root and the ones who don't bear fruit will be cut down and cast into the fire. The people respond with a simple question, what shall we do? Join us today as we see that John's answer must be our faithful response. Chapters (00:00:00) - A faithful response(00:02:27) - John the Baptist(00:10:42) - John 7: Faith Changes Us,(00:17:38) - Point 4, Faith Looks to Jesus(00:23:54) - John the Baptist(00:28:52) - A Moment of Invitation to Christ

“How do we know that 14:1-12 is a flashback?” "How do we know definitely that Matthew's placement of the story of John the Baptist's death before Jesus feeding 5000 and walking on water was a deliberate choice? Modern readers of course can see the contrast between the kings but are we certain this was intentional and not just a coincidence? Or forgot to write it earlier?” “At what point does the flashback end?” "If food laws don't help our spiritual problem why did God institute them in the law?" “Matthew 15: 24-28. What does it mean that the "lost sheep" is only the people of Israel and the outsiders are the "dogs"?"

Our view of Jesus affects the way we view God, the world, ourselves, and every one of our decisions. What we do with Jesus determines where we will spend eternity. In this series, The Person of Jesus, we will get a glimpse into the life of Christ. We will come face to face with the Savior. We will learn about His attributes, His character, and His love for all mankind. No one on earth has changed the face of history like the Lord Jesus Christ. No matter your past, Jesus Christ can forgive you and change your life forever.

Matthew 16:13-20 English Standard Version Peter Confesses Jesus as the Christ 13 Now when Jesus came into the district of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?”14 And they said, “Some say John the Baptist, others say Elijah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” 15 He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” 16 Simon Peter replied, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” 17 And Jesus answered him, “Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah! For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father who is in heaven. 18 And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. 19 I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.” 20 Then he strictly charged the disciples to tell no one that he was the Christ. English Standard Version (ESV) The ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.ESV Text Edition: 2025.

This week, Pastor Zach Pinkerton leads in our discussion of Chapter 11 of the Book of Matthew. We learn, like John the Baptist, that our expectations for God's salvation in our life does not always match the reality of God's plans for us.

Ephesians 4:10-13 God speaks thru prophets and apostles. Jesus loves you so much that he gave the church gifts. “The One who climbed down is the One who climbed back up, up to highest heaven. He handed out gifts above and below, filled heaven with his gifts, filled earth with his gifts. He handed out gifts of apostle, prophet, evangelist, and pastor-teacher to train Christ's followers in skilled servant work, working within Christ's body, the church, until we're all moving rhythmically and easily with each other, efficient and graceful in response to God's Son, fully mature adults, fully developed within and without, fully alive like Christ.” – Ephesians 4:10-13  The Message by Eugene Peterson “And he (Jesus) himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, to build up the body of Christ, until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of God's Son, growing into maturity with a stature measured by Christ's fullness.” – Ephesians 4:11-13  CSB 1. Prophets God speaks. Prophecy – speak on behalf of God before others Prophet – one who speaks inspired utterances on behalf of God “The name ‘prophets' (in Eph. 4:11) is given to those who, having received the Spirit of God, spoke beforehand of Christ and his advent. These were the prophets who “were until Christ.” But after he arrived, was there no reason for any further prophecy? What prophets does Paul speak of here? It is obviously those who being full of the Spirit spoke of God after his coming, continuing to expound the divine teaching.” – Marius Victorinus 280-363 Old Testament prophets spoke the message God gave them, and many pointed to Jesus Christ. “Now all this took place to fulfill what was spoken by the Lord through the prophet.” – Matthew 1:22  CSB Some New Testament prophets: John the Baptist, Anna in Luke 2:36, Agabus in Acts 11:29, 21:10,  Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen in Acts 13:1-2, Silas & Judas Barsabbas in Acts 15:32, 4 daughters of Phillip in Acts 21:8-9,  John in Revelation “the spirit of prophecy” – Revelation 19:10 “This means that prophecy at its very heart is designed to unfold the beauty and loveliness of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” – John Walvoord Training, Discernment, and Accountability:  “Two or three prophets should speak, and the others should evaluate. But if something has been revealed to another person sitting there, the first prophet should be silent. For you can all prophesy one by one, so that everyone may learn and everyone may be encouraged. And the prophets' spirits are subject to the prophets, 33 since God is not a God of disorder but of peace.” – 1 Corinthians 14:29–33   CSB  “many false prophets will appear and fool many people,” – Matthew 24:11    Elijah school of the prophets in 1 Kings 19:18, training people in understanding the Scripture, discerning God's voice, and speaking it. In 2 Kings 2 we see groups of prophets interacting with Elijah and Elisha. Paul & Barnabas – described as “prophets and teachers” then commissioned, sent in apostolic ministry “Now in the church at Antioch there were prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen, a close friend of Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. As they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, ‘Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.' Then after they had fasted, prayed, and laid hands on them, they sent them off.” – Acts 13:1-3  CSB 2. Apostle – an envoy of Jesus, a representative messenger sent, a “special” messenger (having been commissioned by Jesus Christ for a particular task or role, invested with the authority to speak on his behalf)   …borrowing and changing a Greek term for, emissaries, one who is to carry a message and is commissioned to extend the kingdom (military or naval) a commander of a naval expedition (generally restricted to the immediate followers of Jesus Christ, but also extended, as in the case of Paul, to other early Christians active in proclaiming the message of the gospel) – Louw, J. P., & Nida, E. A. (1996). In Greek-English lexicon of the New Testament “Paul, chosen by God to be an apostle and sent out to preach his Good News.” – Romans 1:1  (possible reference to a Jewish embassy in Rome that required travel by sea) Denotes God-given spiritual authority, mission and message, to be recognized by others (including leaders) Influence in more than one local church Alignment > Heirarchy  God speaks. God had spoken. God is speaking. God will speak. “This is a house set up and ordered by Jesus.… He does not do this in a casual manner. It is with the utmost discrimination and discretion: One is assigned to the rank of an apostle, one to the place of a prophet, others to look after the flock of Christ and to work at the divine instruction of others for those saints who are prepared to learn.” – Didymus the Blind a Biblical scholar 313-398 What are prophets & apostles? Gifts from Jesus to his church. Representatives and messengers. They speak when God has given them something to say. The church leaders recognize it and the church receives it. Each of the 4 Gifts function when recognized and received. What are prophets & apostles NOT? Free to do what they want, however they want. Not dictators. Not celebrities. Not gurus. What is the purpose of our interactions with the 4 Gifts? Sent to equip the church for ministry. Sent to build up the church. Sent to help the church learn about Jesus and become more like Jesus. Sent to help the church grow stronger spiritually, able to refute wrong thinking. Equipping – making, preparing, training, perfecting, making fully qualified for service, (in classical language the word was used to describe setting a bone during surgery – The Great Physician is now making all the necessary adjustments so the church will not be “out of joint”) What should we do? 1.       Read Ephesians 3:14-21 and 4:1-16. 2.       Pray, asking God for guidance. 3.       Think about what we are reading. 4.       Write down elements of God's purpose for us. 5.       Write down ways in which we should interact with the 4 Gifts. Extra notes: “the spirit of prophecy” – Revelation 19:10 Worship God, because the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.” – Revelation 19:10  CSB The word “testimony,” or witness, references someone who has seen or experienced something to be the case. John and his brothers are therefore witnesses and the bearers of testimony to the plan and purpose of God for redemption in Jesus. Consequently, God is the only appropriate object of worship. This is explained by the somewhat enigmatic statement, “For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.” Here the word “prophecy” (proph?teia), which arises from a combination of “speak” (ph?mi) and “before” (pro), an important use of the word essentially meaning “speak for God before.” Before what? is an appropriate question. One sense of the preposition (pro) would be to speak about an event before it happens. Another sense would be to speak before listeners of the purpose and acts of God. Likely in this case both of these senses are paramount. In any event, the meaning is actually reasonably clear: The spirit of both the proclamation and the telling of the future is bound up in the testimony of Jesus. Jesus the Lamb—and not just a chronology of last things—is the theme of the Revelation. As Walvoord succinctly declares, “This means that prophecy at its very heart is designed to unfold the beauty and loveliness of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” – Patterson, P. (2012). Revelation (E. R. Clendenen, Ed.; Vol. 39, pp. 345–346). B&H. Evangelist – one who announces the Good News of Jesus (in particular a function rather than an office) …such as Philip in Acts 8:4, 12, 35, 40, 21:8 and Timothy in 2 Timothy 4:5  1 Thessalonians 3:2  Philippians 2:22  and two women in Philippians 4:3  Titus in 2 Corinthians 8:18  Epaphras in Colossians 1:7  NT Evangelists – Paul/Phillip NT Church – 1 Tim 3:15, 5:1-2  1 Cor. 12:16-17 Note: not all evangelists were apostles, but all apostles were evangelists “Then he said to them, ‘Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.'” – Jesus in Mark 16:15-16  CSB All disciples – “Make disciples,” – Jesus in Matthew 28:18-20  “How, then, can they call on him they have not believed in? And how can they believe without hearing about him? And how can they hear without a preacher? And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written: How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news.” – Romans 10:14-15  CSB Preachers: Apostles, Prophets, Evangelists, Pastors/Teachers will preach. Greek definition of the word “preach” ·       To publicly proclaim or announce news. ·       To proclaim as a herald.  Matthew 4:17; 10:7; 24:14; Acts 8:5; Acts 28:31  A person who had particular responsibilities. Someone sent to say something specific. ·       To announce good tidings or good news.  Luke 3:18; Luke 4:43; Luke 9:6; Acts 8:4; Rev 14:6  Euaggelizo – good news of the gospel ·       To teach or instruct.  Matthew 4:23; 13:36; John 6:59; I Cor 4:17; 1 Tim 2:12; Rom 2:20; Acts 13:1; Rom 12:7; 1 Cor 12:28; Mt 28:19;  Mk 16:15; Eph 4:1 ·       To cause people to learn.  Mt 11:29; 28:19; Acts 14:21  ·       To place beside, as in clear presentation.  Mt 13:24; Mk 8:6 ; Acts 16:34; 1 Cor 10:27; 2 Tim 4:3; Heb 5:12-14  Paratithemi – to place beside so you can pick up again ·       To interpret and make clear and simple.  Lk 24:27; 1 Cor 12;30; 14:5,13,27 ·       To bring out the hidden meanings.  Acts 11:4; 18:26; 28:23  Scripture has obvious and non-obvious meaning. Matthew 10:7              And as you go preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand. Matthew 24:14            And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, Colossians 1:28         Him we preach, warning every man and teaching every man in all wisdom, that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus. 2 Corinthians 4:5         For we do not preach ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord, and ourselves your bondservants for Jesus’ sake. 2 Timothy 2:15            Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. Romans 10:14             How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher?

Good News People: Repentance is Good News, Luke 3:2-18, Pastor Kyle Fellows

John the Baptist preached the coming of Jesus, not as a campaign strategy but as a kingly declaration. He was letting the world know that the King has arrived.

The Ministries of Jesus and John the Baptist - Ken Rucker - 2-22-2026 by NewBranch

The Day Foretold, Judgement Day. This week we will be discussing Malachi 4. Malachi told the people to turn away from sin as they looked forward to the promised Messiah. Years later, God sent John the Baptist to prepare the way for Jesus—the Messiah. Jesus brought a message of repentance and salvation. The teacher today is Adam.

Gospel Matthew 9:14-15 The disciples of John approached Jesus and said, “Why do we and the Pharisees fast much, but your disciples do not fast?” Jesus answered them, “Can the wedding guests mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them? The days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast.” Reflection The disciples of John did not have the benefit of the teaching of Jesus, and I'm sure it was difficult for them to shift their attention away from their teacher, John the Baptist, and to Jesus the Messiah. But what is clear that Jesus is trying to say is that John's message was preparing them for who he is and who he is, is God's presence in a human being and he's here to proclaim that that is our inheritance. So Jesus underscores the fact that the goal of the Kingdom is closeness with God. And when that God is present, there is no need to be fasting. Closing Prayer Father, your presence is something that we need to pay attention to, to know that you dwell within us. We celebrate it in a beautiful way through rituals, the presence of God, in the mystery of transubstantiation coming and dwelling in our hearts as Catholics. It's a beautiful image. And he comes in so many different ways. But it's important that we not fall into the trap of not understanding fully that God truly does want to marry us. He is the bridegroom and we are the bride. And we ask this in Jesus' name, Amen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A True Minister looks at John 3:25–30 and the powerful response of John the Baptist when his following began to shift toward Jesus. Rather than seeking recognition, he embraced humility, joy, and his God-given role. This message reveals the heart of genuine ministry—serving faithfully, surrendering personal ambition, and pointing others to Christ above all.-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------DONATE: https://evidence4faith.org/give/WEBSITE: https://evidence4faith.org/NEWSLETTER: http://eepurl.com/hpazV5BOOKINGS: https://evidence4faith.org/bookings/CONTACT: Evidence 4 Faith, 349 Knights Ave Kewaskum WI 53040 , info@evidence4faith.orgMy goal is that their hearts, having been knit together in love, may be encouraged, and that they may have all the riches that assurance brings in their understanding of the knowledge of the mystery of God, namely, Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. - Colossians 2:2-3CREDITS: Developed & Hosted by Michael Lane. Produced & Edited by Isabel Kolste. Graphics & Publication by Isabel Kolste. Additional Art, Film, & Photography Credits: Stock media “Memories” provided by mv_production / Pond5 | Logo Stinger: Unsplash.com: Leinstravelier, Logan Moreno Gutierrez, Meggyn Pomerieau, Jaredd Craig, NASA, NOASS, USGS, Sam Carter, Junior REIS, Luka Vovk, Calvin Craig, Mario La Pergola, Timothy Eberly, Priscilla Du Preez, Ismael Paramo, Tingey Injury Law Firm, Dan Cristian Pădureț, Jakob Owens | Wikimedia: Darmouth University Public Domain, Kelvinsong CC0 | Stock media “A stately Story (Stiner02)” provided by lynnepublishing / Pond5

Then into the scene walk two witnesses… Who are they? Elijah? John the Baptist? We don't know. These witnesses are lights before the powers of darkness. They're filled with the Holy Spirit and have power over nature and the ability to strike the earth with plagues as often as they wish, which reveals God's confidence in them. But then why does God allow the Antichrist to kill them? You'll be so amazed at the answer.

Read OnlineThe disciples of John approached Jesus and said, “Why do we and the Pharisees fast much, but your disciples do not fast?” Jesus answered them, “Can the wedding guests mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them? The days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast.” Matthew 9:14–15Fasting is an essential spiritual discipline. It signifies humility, repentance, and a sincere turning toward God, while also strengthening the virtue of temperance. This enables us to overcome inordinate desires for food, drink, and other appetites of the flesh. Given its significance, John the Baptist's disciples were surprised to see that Jesus' disciples were not fasting. They approached Jesus with a genuine question, seeking to understand. Jesus responded with a profound truth, explaining why fasting was not yet necessary for His disciples.In His rhetorical reply, “Can the wedding guests mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them?” Jesus identifies Himself as the Bridegroom whose presence brings joy and celebration. While He was with them, fasting was not needed. However, Jesus makes it clear that a time will come when the Bridegroom will be “taken away”—referring to His Passion and death—and at that time, fasting would be essential as His disciples take up their own crosses to follow Him.This passage not only teaches us about fasting, it also offers insight into how we should respond to both spiritual consolations and times of dryness in prayer. When we experience God's closeness, we should respond with gratitude and joyful praise. However, when those consolations fade, God invites us to enter into a deeper spiritual journey—through fasting, increased prayer, and penance. God often gives us moments of consolation to prepare us for the more challenging periods when our faith is deepened and purified. Thus, we should savor the joyful moments but embrace the difficult ones as opportunities for even greater spiritual growth.It's also important to note the disposition of John's disciples in this Gospel. Unlike the Pharisees who often questioned Jesus with malicious intent, John's disciples came in humility with a sincere desire to understand. They were not trying to trap Jesus or find fault with Him; they genuinely sought clarity. John had already pointed them to Jesus, identifying Him as the Lamb of God. When they noticed a difference in practice—that Jesus' disciples were not fasting—it was difficult for them to reconcile that with their own spiritual customs. Rather than doubting or criticizing, they approached Jesus openly, and He responded to them with gentle instruction.This teaches us a vital lesson: We must approach God—and others—with humility and openness, especially when we are confused or in conflict. When misunderstandings or disagreements arise, it's easy to condemn or judge, but doing so is a lack of humility and rarely leads to peace or reconciliation. Like John's disciples, we must always seek to understand, especially in matters of faith.In our relationship with God, this humble disposition is essential. When things don't go as we expect, we can become frustrated, even feeling abandoned by God. In such moments, it's tempting to distance ourselves from Him or rely on our own understanding. However, any conflict or confusion we experience in our spiritual lives is never because God is distant or indifferent. It is often our sin, lack of trust, or misunderstanding that clouds our judgment. God's will is always perfect, and we must approach Him with faith, knowing that He never abandons us. Reflect today on the example of John's disciples who approached Jesus with a heart open to understanding. Use their example in your own life, especially when you experience confusion or conflict—whether with God or others. Embrace humility and openness, and you will be granted the grace of understanding and peace.My perfect Lord, You are always present to me, always attentive, and always leading me into Your perfect will. When I become confused, grant me the graces of humility and openness, so that I may seek Your will and come to know Your way. Help me to approach others with the same humility and charity, free from judgment and harshness, so that Your peace may reign. Jesus, I trust in You.Image via Adobe StockSource: Free RSS feed from catholic-daily-reflections.com — Copyright © 2026 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. This content is provided solely for personal, non-commercial use. Redistribution, republication, or commercial use — including use within apps with advertising — is strictly prohibited without written permission.

The next day [John the Baptist] saw Jesus coming toward Him, and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” … And John bore witness: “I saw the Spirit descend from heaven like a dove, and it remained on Him. I myself did not know Him, but He who sent me to baptize with water said to me, ‘He on whom you see the Spirit descend and remain, this is He who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.' And I have seen and have borne witness that this is the Son of God.” (John 1:29, 32-34)

He Must Increase: John 3:22–36In this episode of Divine Table Talk, Jamie and Jane explore John 3:22–36, where John the Baptist humbly declares, “He must increase, but I must decrease.” As questions of comparison and influence arise, John's response reveals a powerful model of humility, joy, and surrender.Together, they unpack what it means to live a life that points to Jesus rather than elevates self, how identity is secured in Christ—not position—and why true joy is found in making much of Him. This passage invites us to examine our motives, release comparison, and embrace a faith that celebrates Christ's increase above all.____________________________________Connect with Jamie:Website: www.jamieklusacek.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamieklusacekConnect with Jane:Website: www.janewwilliams.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/janewwilliams

"I can't recall, Senator." In the 11th chapter of his Gospel, Mark describes a scene with "the chief priests, the teachers of the law and the elders." These prominent men lied in their answer to Jesus about John the Baptist. He knew they'd lied. Everyone knew they had lied. And they knew that everyone knew they had lied. Such beacons of righteousness! But just when we're about to write them all off, there is one - just one - scribe with a good question. Listen to Right Start Radio every Monday through Friday on WCVX 1160AM (Cincinnati, OH) at 9:30am, WHKC 91.5FM (Columbus, OH) at 5:00pm, WRFD 880AM (Columbus, OH) at 9:00am. Right Start can also be heard on One Christian Radio 107.7FM & 87.6FM in New Plymouth, New Zealand. You can purchase a copy of this message, unsegmented for broadcasting and in its entirety, for $7 on a single CD by calling +1 (800) 984-2313, and of course you can always listen online or download the message for free. RS02192026_0.mp3Scripture References: Mark 12:1-12

Has Jesus lived up to your expectations? Probably not, if you're honest. And you're in good company. John the Baptist faced that same situation as he sat in a Roman prison. As you follow Jesus, living in obedience to His Word, your expectations will often be shattered by reality. And you will be faced with the dilemma: Will you be offended by Jesus or will you follow Him?  Westside Unscripted is the pastor's podcast of Westside Baptist Church in Bremerton, WA. If you have a topic you would like to hear addressed on the podcast, reach out to Pastor Josh at Josh@bibledirectionforlife.com. If you would like more information about our church, visit www.bibledirectionforlife.com .

Matthew 3  Listen to other great sleep mediations on Amen.Sign up for a 7-day free trial of Formed.Support this podcast and the Augustine Institute by becoming a member of the Mission Circle. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

#top .av-special-heading.av-gs9o3p-e36c33ac2dcab907939eb5a05a8d3503{ padding-bottom:10px; } body .av-special-heading.av-gs9o3p-e36c33ac2dcab907939eb5a05a8d3503 .av-special-heading-tag .heading-char{ font-size:25px; } .av-special-heading.av-gs9o3p-e36c33ac2dcab907939eb5a05a8d3503 .av-subheading{ font-size:15px; } Through My Bible Yr 03 – February 18Luke 7:18-35 LISTEN HERE Through My Bible – February 18 Luke 7:18-35 (EHV) https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/tmb-ehv/03-0218db.mp3 See series: Through My Bible Luke 7 John the Baptist and Christ 18 John's disciples told him about all these things. 19 Calling two of his disciples to him, he sent them to Jesus [1] to ask, “Are you the one who was to come or should we look for someone else?” 20 When the men had arrived, they said to Jesus, “John the Baptist sent us to ask you, ‘Are you the one who was to come or should we look for someone else?'” 21 At that time Jesus healed many people of their diseases, afflictions, and evil spirits. And he gave many blind people the ability to see. 22 Jesus answered them, “Go, tell John what you have seen and heard: The blind receive their sight, the lame walk, the lepers are healed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is preached to the poor. 23 Blessed is the one who does not fall away on account of me.” 24 After John's messengers had left, Jesus began to talk to the crowds about John: “What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed shaken by the wind? 25 No. Then what did you go out to see? A man dressed in soft clothing? Yet those who are dressed in splendid clothing and live in luxury are in royal palaces. 26 But what did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I tell you, and much more than a prophet. 27 This is the one about whom it is written: ‘Look, I am sending my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way before you.' [2] 28 “Yes, I tell you, [3] among those born of women there is no prophet [4] greater than John. Yet the one who is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he.” 29 When all the people (including the tax collectors) heard this, they declared that God was just, since they were baptized with the baptism of John. 30 But the Pharisees and the legal experts rejected God's purpose for themselves by not being baptized by him. 31 “To what then will I compare the people of this generation? What are they like? 32 They are like children sitting in the marketplace and calling to one another, ‘We played the flute for you, and you did not dance. We sang a dirge, and you did not weep.' 33 For John the Baptist has come without eating bread or drinking wine, and you say, ‘He has a demon.' 34 The Son of Man has come eating and drinking, and you say, ‘Look, a man who is a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!' 35 Yet wisdom is declared right by all her children.” Footnotes Luke 7:19 Some witnesses to the text read the Lord. Luke 7:27 Malachi 3:1 Luke 7:28 Some witnesses to the text read I tell you the truth. Luke 7:28 Some witnesses to the text read no one. #top .hr.hr-invisible.av-aocsdx-89cb4ca21532423cf697fc393b6fcee0{ height:10px; } The Holy Bible, Evangelical Heritage Version®, EHV®, © 2019 Wartburg Project, Inc. All rights reserved. #top .hr.hr-invisible.av-4vzadh-3f04b370105df1fd314a2a9d83e55b26{ height:50px; } Share this entryShare on FacebookShare on LinkedInShare by MailLink to FlickrLink to InstagramLink to Vimeo

In this episode of Tell Me More, hosts Dr. Wiles, Katy Reed Hodges, and Luke Stehr reflect on what it looks like to faithfully shepherd a church family in a season marked by both grief and gratitude—sharing updates on recent funerals and the lay leaders who help care so well for First Baptist Arlington.From there, the conversation pivots to Sunday's message on John the Baptist—including a lively (and clarifying) detour into Baptist history. Dr. Wiles explains why “John the Baptist” is better understood as “John the Baptizer,” unpacks the Trail of Blood idea and why it faded, and traces Baptist origins to the English Separatist movement and early figures like John Smyth and Thomas Helwys.The episode then returns to the heart of the sermon: being a faithful witness today. The hosts talk practically about personal evangelism—praying, preparing, and proclaiming in a way that's authentic, gospel-centered, and Spirit-led—along with stories from ministry that illustrate how God opens doors at the right time.Finally, they highlight important moments in the life of the church, including Ash Wednesday, Ramadan outreach, gospel conversations training, the budget presentation meeting, upcoming men's and college events, Faith at Home, youth Encounter Weekend, and the launch of the Heart of Arlington Foundation as a way to invest in the church's long-term future.

Growing In God Podcast Program Number: GIG #289 Title: Times of Refreshing   Web Description: We believe in the promise that there will be times of refreshing from the presence of the Lord. But when we look at our circumstances, we think, "This doesn't seem like refreshing to me!" That is the wrong focus because what precedes and initiates the times of refreshing is the fact that we repent and return to the Lord. Let us see the whole picture that includes our repentance as a positive progression into all that God wants us to have and be in Him.   Show Notes: The apostle Peter prophesied that there will be times of refreshing and restoration. And for many years now we have seen restoration happen in the Church. Many of the gifts, ministries, and experiences of the Holy Spirit have already been restored. Along with this restoration, we therefore anticipate the times of refreshing as well. Yet the devastating experiences we go through make it difficult to accept that we are in times of refreshing. We have to remember that this promise of restoration and refreshing occurs because we repent and return to the Lord. One of the greatest chapters on restoration is Joel 2, where we also read about the outpouring of God's Spirit on all mankind. But how do the restoration and outpourings come about? They come about because people return to the Lord with weeping and mourning and rending of their hearts. We are not immune from this in our walk with God. The most important thing God is restoring is the personal relationship with Him on a level we have not known before. As we seek for that relationship, the Holy Spirit puts us in a place of being humbled before the Lord.   This process of repentance and humility is how we experience restoration and times of refreshing. And like Job, it is certainly easy to think negatively about what God leads us through in that process. But as with Job, God's purpose is to give us the times of refreshing. His goal is the positive work He will do for us and with us. His plan is to restore us to Himself as those sons of God who shouted for joy at His creation. That is why we keep our focus on Him and return to Him with all our hearts.   Key Verses:   •       Acts 3:18–21. "Repent and return, so that your sins may be wiped away, in order that times of refreshing may come." •       Joel 2:12–13. "Return to Me with all your heart, and with fasting, weeping and mourning." •       Joel 2:28–29. "I will pour out My Spirit on all mankind." •       2 Peter 3:9. "The Lord is … patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance." •       Matthew 3:1–2. "John the Baptist came, preaching … 'Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.'" •       Matthew 4:17. "Jesus began to preach and say, 'Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.'" •       Job 38:1–7. "Where were you when … all the sons of God shouted for joy?"   Quotes:   •       "The Spirit is poured sovereignly, but He rests comfortably where there is repentance, humility, and alignment to His will." •       "Real repentance is not shame driven. Shame says, 'Hide. You are unworthy.' Repentance says, 'Return. You belong to the Father. You belong to the plan of God for this hour.'" •       "Repentance is not punishment. It's a doorway back into the love relationship with the Father." •       "God will do whatever He needs to do to get us into His eternal purpose for our existence."   Takeaways:   1.    According to Joel 2, what happens to prepare us for the global outpouring of God's Spirit and the new day of the Kingdom? It is the brokenness of our hearts and repentance that is a real return to the Lord. 2.    We must follow the roadmap to the promised restoration and outpourings. There is a divine order to God's plan as He brings us in alignment with His way of thinking and His will. 3.    God's process of humility is not to punish us. It is not to shame us. It is the path we walk on to a fully restored relationship with the Father.

Today, Paul M. Neuberger fires up the boardroom—no apologies. No watering down.The world says popularity is the prize. But Scripture? Scripture says, “If the world loves you… ask yourself why.”Leaders today are told to chase applause, likes, and comfort. But Christ called us to carry the cross, not chase the crowd.Opposition? It's not failure. It's confirmation. Ridicule, venom, backlash—those are the battle scars of obedience.You won't find easy faith here. You'll find faith that costs. Faith that stands. Faith that refuses to compromise.Jesus is still Lord—even when standing for Him draws fire from every corner.So, C-Suite leader, what will you do when your moment of truth arrives?Will you bend for applause, or stand for the King?“If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you." –John 15:18–19Episode Highlights:05:27 – Jesus draws a clear dividing line. Belonging to him automatically places you at odds with the world. There is no neutral ground. There is no option where faithfulness and universal approval coexist. If the world loves you, scripture tells us to ask why. All throughout the Bible, God's most faithful servants were rarely celebrated in their time. The prophets were ridiculed, imprisoned, threatened, and killed. Jeremiah was called a traitor. Elijah was hunted. John the Baptist was beheaded. The apostles were beaten, jailed, and executed—not because they were cruel or unkind, but because they spoke truth without compromise.12:15 – The absence of resistance isn't evidence of effectiveness. Often it's evidence of accommodation. And that's why when the world loves you, you should not celebrate. You should pause. You should reflect. You should be really, really nervous. There's a dangerous illusion in modern Christian leadership that says alignment with the world can coexist with faithfulness to God. It sounds reasonable. It feels strategic. It's often framed as wisdom. But scripture consistently rejects the idea that God shares allegiance with anyone or anything else.38:03 – Let this truth settle deep in your spirit. The goal of Christian leadership has never been to be liked. It's always been to be faithful. The applause of the world is fleeting, but the approval of God is eternal. One is going to fade, but the other will stand forever. If you're facing criticism because you refuse to compromise scripture, please, I implore you, take heart. You're not failing. You're standing.Connect with Paul M. NeubergerWebsite

In "Have You Seen the One I Love": Contemplation on Song of Solomon 1:15, Eric Tadros explores the deep spiritual relationship between the soul and God as reflected in the Song of Solomon. Eric discusses how the Lord views the soul as beautiful and desirable, even amid sin, emphasizing God's persistent desire for the soul's return. Eric highlights the importance of seeking God's testimony over worldly praise, using examples like John the Baptist, St. Mary, and others who appeared plain outwardly but were great in the sight of the Lord. He reflects on themes like labor, faith, love, confession, and humility as qualities that make the soul beautiful to God. The symbolism of “dove's eyes” is explained as representing spiritual insight and the presence of the Holy Spirit, urging believers to maintain purity, presence, and peace in their gaze and interactions. Eric encourages embracing the paradox of the Christian life where God's standards differ from the world's, seeking to hear, “Behold, you are fair, my love.”

Read OnlineThe disciples had forgotten to bring bread, and they had only one loaf with them in the boat. Jesus enjoined them, “Watch out, guard against the leaven of the Pharisees and the leaven of Herod.” Mark 8:14–15Jesus and the disciples frequently traveled by boat, visiting many towns and villages along the Sea of Galilee. After a fruitful visit to the Gentile territory of the Decapolis, Jesus and His disciples crossed to Dalmanutha. Upon disembarking, some Pharisees, who had likely heard of His miraculous feeding of the 4,000, demanded a sign from Him. Jesus, deeply grieved by their lack of faith, sighed from the depths of His spirit, refused their request, and departed again by boat. It was during this boat ride that today's Gospel took place.Jesus' holy sorrow over the Pharisees' hardness of heart deeply affected Him. His grief was not one of self-pity over their rejection of Him but stemmed from His divine compassion. He felt the weight of their lack of faith and their refusal to embrace the truth of God's love. It was this profound sorrow that prompted Jesus to caution His disciples, saying, “Watch out, guard against the leaven of the Pharisees and the leaven of Herod.”“Leaven,” in this context, symbolizes a hidden yet pervasive influence that governed both the Pharisees and Herod. Just as a small amount of yeast permeates an entire batch of dough, causing it to rise, so too the destructive influence of the Pharisees and Herod spread through their actions and teachings, corrupting others. With His sorrowful encounter with the Pharisees fresh in mind, Jesus used the moment to warn His disciples not to allow such corrupting influences to take root in their own hearts.The Pharisees' hidden, pervasive, and destructive quality lay in their excessive focus on external observances of the Law and the traditions derived from it. Their rigid legalism blinded them to the true meaning of God's Law—mercy and the inner disposition of the heart—leading to their own spiritual ruin and to the misleading of others.Herod's “leaven” likely refers to a worldly mindset characterized by a relentless pursuit of power, wealth, and pleasure. Herod chose the fleeting allure of worldly things over God's eternal truths. Herod's pride and destructive behavior epitomize this mindset, which ultimately led him to have John the Baptist executed for courageously speaking the truth about Herod's adulterous relationship with his brother's wife, Herodias.Jesus' admonition to His disciples on the boat is not only a condemnation of the Pharisees' and Herod's sins but a warning about the influence such pervasive sins can have on them. Likewise, just as Jesus cautioned His disciples, so too does He caution us today: “Watch out” and “guard against” the influences that do not arise from God's saving Truth. In our world, it is essential to recognize how pervasive societal ideologies and moralities can subtly shape our thoughts and actions. By remaining vigilant and rooted in Christ, we must discern and reject the leaven of worldliness, hypocrisy, and pride, allowing God's divine light to guide our lives.Reflect today on the influences that shape your life. Do you spend countless hours on social media, browsing the Internet, or watching television? If so, take a moment to consider the hidden yet pervasive effects of the content you consume and discern if it is subtly leading you astray. The only true remedy against such worldly influences is found in prayer and the Word of God. The Gospel must permeate our minds and hearts, acting as leaven to transform us from within. This divine leaven is nourished through prayer, the Sacraments, and an ongoing commitment to the Gospel. Heed Jesus' warning, spoken to His disciples but intended for every generation: Remain vigilant. Guard your heart and mind, ensuring they are firmly rooted in God's saving grace. My grieving Lord, Your heart was filled with holy sorrow over the sins of the Pharisees and Herod, especially as You witnessed the harmful influence they had on others. Please grant me the gift of spiritual insight, so that I may recognize the influences that shape my thoughts and actions. May Your Word and Your Truth alone guide me, and may I become a witness to that Truth, serving as a holy influence for others. Jesus, I trust in You.Image: James Tissot, Public domain, via Wikimedia CommonsSource: Free RSS feed from catholic-daily-reflections.com — Copyright © 2026 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. This content is provided solely for personal, non-commercial use. Redistribution, republication, or commercial use — including use within apps with advertising — is strictly prohibited without written permission.

As Lent begins, the Bible Savvy Podcast team reflects on John 1:19–40 where John the Baptist repeatedly points away from himself and toward Jesus, challenging us to consider how we point others to Christ, and not ourselves. Want more context for the book of John? Check out the Bible Project videos found here: John – Part 1 | John – Part 2

In this week's message, “Demolition Required,” Pastor Owen Miller invites us into the refining, renewing work of Jesus described in Matthew 3:11–12. John the Baptist paints a vivid picture of the Messiah standing with a winnowing fork in his hand—separating wheat from chaff, preserving what is good, and clearing away what cannot remain.Pastor Owen reminds us that this is the very heart of sanctification. Jesus lovingly enters the hidden corners of our lives, not to shame us, but to transform us. His work often feels like demolition—tearing down old patterns, false identities, and the debris of sin—but it is always for the sake of rebuilding something stronger, truer, and more Christlike.In this message you'll be encouraged to:Trust Jesus with the ongoing process of spiritual formationEmbrace the “winnowing” work that separates what is life-giving from what is destructiveFind hope in Christ's unwavering love and patient craftsmanshipSee sanctification not as punishment, but as purposeful renewalNo matter what Jesus is clearing away or cultivating within you, there is always hope. He is faithful to build the good and remove the harmful, shaping us into people who reflect His character and carry His light.

The story of Jesus beginning His ministry in Galilee reveals God's incredible strategy of bringing hope to the hopeless. When Jesus moved to Capernaum after John the Baptist's arrest, He chose a region that had been spiritually neglected for 700 years. This area of Zebulun and Naphtali had been the first to fall to Assyrian invasion in 732 BC, and its mixed population of Jews and Gentiles made it despised by Jerusalem's religious elite. The people there lived in comprehensive spiritual darkness - not just ignorance, but complete separation from God, with no hope beyond death and no light to guide their steps. Matthew reveals that this location was no accident but the fulfillment of Isaiah's ancient prophecy. God had been planning for 700 years to bring salvation first to the very place that experienced judgment first. The light that dawned was not a philosophy or program, but a person - Jesus Christ Himself. This light is described as great and dawning like the sun, bringing not just illumination but complete liberation from the shadow of death. Jesus' first word in His ministry was repent, which isn't merely feeling sorry but involves a complete reorientation of life toward God. This call to repentance is actually an invitation into His kingdom, demonstrating God's pattern of choosing the unlikely and despised to display His greatest works. For those living in any form of spiritual darkness today, the same light that dawned in Galilee continues to shine, offering hope, forgiveness, and new life through faith in Christ.

Pastor James Prendergast preaches a sermon from John chapter three verses 22 through 30 on John the Baptist and four demonstrations of greatness from his life.

Subscribe and Follow. Thanks! - NOTES AVAILABLE AT: https://www.gracereach.org/luke - In this teaching, Brad explains how the message of John the Baptist was a warning of judgment to the people of Israel connected to their violations of the Law of Moses. This judgment was the dreadful and terrible day of the Lord spoken of by Malachi and Jesus (the great tribulation), and was fulfilled in AD 70 when the Roman Armies destroyed Jerusalem and the temple. This teaching and other teachings are available on the Gracereach website: https://www.gracereach.org/luke - For more of Brad's resources, see below.Brad's books are all available on Amazon in Paperback.Revelation Volume 1: Judgment On First-Century Israelhttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F7GBG42CRevelation Volume 2: War On The Saintshttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FN3XR59L490 Years Determined: The Seventy Years of Daniel Explainedhttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DPX7VZY5Nebuchadnezzar's Dream and the Kingdom of Grace -https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D9YFCXC8/Toxic Discipleship: Restoring the Gospel - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CNN8PB7LAddicted To Grace: A New Life Awaits - https://www.amazon.com/Addicted-Grace-New-Life-Awaits/dp/0578407760Forgiven and Cleansed: 1 John 1:9 In Context - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08N3NBPPRReturn to Grace: A Commentary on Galatians - https://www.amazon.com/Return-Grace-Commentary-Brad-Robertson/dp/B08HV8HRTCStrategic Church: Reaching The World With Grace - https://www.amazon.com/Strategic-Church-Strategy-Reach-World/dp/B08733MRWWThe Story of Grace: Your Life Will Never Be The Same - https://www.amazon.com/dp/0692084940Website: https://www.gracereach.orgFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/Bradr1966YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClip-czxRgZbxtWg-w2YL7APodcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-gracereach-podcast-with-brad-robertson/id1503583444 (You may listen to Brad's podcast on iTunes, Spotify, Anchor, Google Podcasts, and most all podcast platforms.)If you would like to donate to Brad's ministry, Gracereach, to help reach more and more people with the good news of God's grace. click here:https://www.gracereach.org/donatetogracereachThank you!

Subscribe and Follow. Thanks! - NOTES AVAILABLE AT: https://www.gracereach.org/luke - In PART TWO of this teaching, Brad continues to explain how the message of John the Baptist was a warning of judgment to the people of first- century, old covenant Israel that was connected to their violations of the Law of Moses. This judgment was the dreadful and terrible day of the Lord spoken of by Malachi and Jesus (the great tribulation), and was fulfilled in AD 70 when the Roman Armies destroyed Jerusalem and the temple. In this teaching, Brad explains that the Pharisees and Sadducees were the offspring of Satan, the brood of vipers. This teaching and other teachings are available on the Gracereach website: https://www.gracereach.org/luke - For more of Brad's resources, see below.Brad's books are all available on Amazon in Paperback.Revelation Volume 1: Judgment On First-Century Israelhttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F7GBG42CRevelation Volume 2: War On The Saintshttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FN3XR59L490 Years Determined: The Seventy Years of Daniel Explainedhttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DPX7VZY5Nebuchadnezzar's Dream and the Kingdom of Grace -https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D9YFCXC8/Toxic Discipleship: Restoring the Gospel - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CNN8PB7LAddicted To Grace: A New Life Awaits - https://www.amazon.com/Addicted-Grace-New-Life-Awaits/dp/0578407760Forgiven and Cleansed: 1 John 1:9 In Context - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08N3NBPPRReturn to Grace: A Commentary on Galatians - https://www.amazon.com/Return-Grace-Commentary-Brad-Robertson/dp/B08HV8HRTCStrategic Church: Reaching The World With Grace - https://www.amazon.com/Strategic-Church-Strategy-Reach-World/dp/B08733MRWWThe Story of Grace: Your Life Will Never Be The Same - https://www.amazon.com/dp/0692084940Website: https://www.gracereach.orgFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/Bradr1966YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClip-czxRgZbxtWg-w2YL7APodcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-gracereach-podcast-with-brad-robertson/id1503583444 (You may listen to Brad's podcast on iTunes, Spotify, Anchor, Google Podcasts, and most all podcast platforms.)If you would like to donate to Brad's ministry, Gracereach, to help reach more and more people with the good news of God's grace. click here:https://www.gracereach.org/donatetogracereachThank you!

Matthew 16:13-20 English Standard VersionPeter Confesses Jesus as the Christ13 Now when Jesus came into the district of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?”14 And they said, “Some say John the Baptist, others say Elijah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” 15 He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” 16 Simon Peter replied, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” 17 And Jesus answered him, “Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah! For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father who is in heaven. 18 And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. 19 I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.” 20 Then he strictly charged the disciples to tell no one that he was the Christ.English Standard Version (ESV)The ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.ESV Text Edition: 2025. 

It is necessary for the orderly functioning of life for there to be those in authority to approve and oversee what is to be done.  This is essential for the proper functioning of life, but is it so in every case?  In particular, is it so with Christianity?  Jesus was the authority until he ascended to heaven.  Then the Apostles were given special Holy Spirit powers to exercise authority.   An outstanding example was the drama with Ananias and Sapphira (Acts 5 v.1-11) who told lies to the Apostles, but Peter said, “You have not lied to men but to God.” [v.4]Our thoughts on this question arose from today's reading in Mark 11 where we read, “as he (Jesus) was walking in the temple, the chief priests and the scribes and elders came to him and they said to him, ‘By what authority are you doing these things, or who gave you this authority to do them?” [v.27-28]  These men were the bosses, no one was supposed to teach unless they gave them authority, this is one reason why John the Baptist went into the wilderness to preach.    It was this exercise of authority that saw the disciples thrown into prison when they taught in the temple (Acts 4 v.1-3) although later, such was the prestige of the Apostles, created by their miracles, that dramatic scenes unfolded. (Acts 5 v.12,13,17-20), but “none of the rest dared join them.” History shows that as the early believers evolved into large established churches these churches too began to exercise an attitude of authority climaxing in the power of the Pope and the cardinal system. In the Middle Ages, if you were not appointment by church authorities to minister in a church, you had no authority to preach. Some, such as John Bunyan, were put in prison for doing so.But as we will read at the end of Mark's Gospel, Jesus said, “Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation.  Whoever believes and is baptised will be saved …” [16 v.15,16]. That authority is given to everyone, so we all have the responsibility to share our faith. Paul challenges us when he expresses this responsibility in the bluntest terms, “Woe is me if I do not preach the gospel”  [1 Cor.9 v.16]  

Join us as Pastor preaches in Luke:24-35.   

Mike and Kenny review and spot faith presented in the Academy Award nominated and latest film by director Yorgos Lanthimos. Bugonia marks another colaboration between Lanthimos and two time Best Actress winner Emma Stone, whose second Oscar was for Lanthimos's film Poor Things. Stone stars as Michelle Fuller, a powerful CEO of a pharmaceutical company. Jesse Plemons, a 2021 Best Supporting Actor nominee co-stars as conspiracy theory obsessed beekeeper Teddy Gatz. Aiden Delbis also co-stars as Teddy's autistic cousin Don.  Likening her actions to Cology Collapse Disorder where healthy beehives suddenly collapse, Teddy believes Fuller is an Andromedan alien who is intent to destroy or force humanity into subserivence. Teddy convinces Don to assist him in kidnapping and holding Fuller hostage in an effort to be transported to the Andromedan spaceship.  Faith Spotted: As with bee hives, communities, whether faith or societal, can function, grow and live for an extended period and then quickly become dysfuntional collapse and die. Typically growth happens when the wellbeing of the collective is prioritized over the needs, fears, or desires of the individual. Fracturing happens when in response to the community facing challenge or change, and individuals or portions of the community begin to act in ways that offer them comfort and assurance based on memories of past glory and success.  Teddy resembles in the description of John the Baptist who comes in from the wilderness with a new message.  While John was preparing the way for the new message that was the Gospel of Christ, not every outsider with a new message is to be followed.  The patience of God not to do away with creation or humanity even though it is likely what is derserved. Although there is the flood account in Scripture, there have been other times when God has been tempted to do away with nations or communities, yet resisted the temptation. The continued rejection by humanity of God's grace, love and righteousness (desire) is a source of unimaginable pain to God. Because God's love is complete and perfect, the loss and pain God feels when we reject and retaliate are immeasureable. Yet God continues to love.  Dysfunctional communities such as cults etc. are based on and grow out of fear of real or perceived threats and challenges facing members. Such fear leads to a desire and need to seek to control or to follow those indviduals and groups who promise stability and control over that which is unknown or unstable, regardless of the cost. The promise of the Gospel is that life does not end in death, collapse and a tomb, but rather continues through the hope and assurance of ressurection to new life. 

In this episode of The Gospel of John, we step into the moment where Jesus' growing ministry overlaps with John the Baptist's ongoing work. Centered on John 3:22–24, this passage highlights a unique season where both ministries are active at the same time, setting the stage for deeper reflection on calling, purpose, and God's unfolding plan. Join us as we explore how this powerful transition points to the introduction of the New Covenant and the shifting focus from preparation to fulfillment in Christ.-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------DONATE: https://evidence4faith.org/give/WEBSITE: https://evidence4faith.org/NEWSLETTER: http://eepurl.com/hpazV5BOOKINGS: https://evidence4faith.org/bookings/CONTACT: Evidence 4 Faith, 349 Knights Ave Kewaskum WI 53040 , info@evidence4faith.orgMy goal is that their hearts, having been knit together in love, may be encouraged, and that they may have all the riches that assurance brings in their understanding of the knowledge of the mystery of God, namely, Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. - Colossians 2:2-3CREDITS: Developed & Hosted by Michael Lane. Produced & Edited by Isabel Kolste. Graphics & Publication by Isabel Kolste. Additional Art, Film, & Photography Credits: Stock media “Memories” provided by mv_production / Pond5 | Logo Stinger: Unsplash.com: Leinstravelier, Logan Moreno Gutierrez, Meggyn Pomerieau, Jaredd Craig, NASA, NOASS, USGS, Sam Carter, Junior REIS, Luka Vovk, Calvin Craig, Mario La Pergola, Timothy Eberly, Priscilla Du Preez, Ismael Paramo, Tingey Injury Law Firm, Dan Cristian Pădureț, Jakob Owens | Wikimedia: Darmouth University Public Domain, Kelvinsong CC0 | Stock media “A stately Story (Stiner02)” provided by lynnepublishing / Pond5

This week we study John the Baptist, who was the forerunner of Jesus Christ. We learn some really good practical tips on how to tell others about Jesus, and operate in the role God has given us! Tune in and make sure to share with a friend!www.christiangirlspop.com

What if some of the most familiar Gospel stories aren't quite what we've imagined? In this episode of Michael Easley in Context, Michael is joined by renowned New Testament scholar Dr. Craig Evans to explore why historical and cultural context is essential for understanding Scripture. Drawing from his book Wow, I Didn't Know That, Dr. Evans helps everyday believers move past assumptions and into a clearer, richer reading of the Gospels. From the birth of Jesus and common nativity misconceptions, to repentance, Pharisees, John the Baptist, and the healing ministry of Jesus, this conversation shows how context doesn't complicate faith—it strengthens it. You'll discover why Jesus' call to repentance is about renewal, not escapism, and how careful scholarship serves spiritual growth, not just academic knowledge. If you love the Bible and want to understand it more deeply—without feeling overwhelmed—this episode is for you. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction & prayer 01:00 – Why Dr. Craig Evans wrote Wow, I Didn't Know That 03:45 – Making scholarship accessible for everyday believers 05:20 – Who this book (and conversation) is for 06:45 – Why misconceptions form when we ignore context 08:30 – The truth about the manger, the inn, and the nativity scene 11:15 – Why modern assumptions distort ancient texts 13:30 – Rethinking Pharisees and first-century Jewish life 16:10 – John the Baptist, family connections, and Gospel chronology 19:30 – Repentance: what Jesus really meant 22:15 – Renewal vs. end-times escapism 25:00 – The woman with the hemorrhage and ritual purity 28:10 – Jesus vs. Roman power and false healers 31:45 – Why context deepens faith instead of weakening it 34:45 – Final reflections and encouragement