Podcasts about Joppa

Hey everyone,Fresh out the Reactor this week, we got new tunes from ENTA , Audio, Frosta, Double Medley & Subminderz, Instinkt and moreIn the Demo room we are looking at upcoming heat from Sindicate , Jocasta & Joppa , Lyness, Paperclip , Screamarts and NeurotikumCheck out the track list below and let's dive in!Stonx Music Annual 2025cygnusmusic.link/nanpoe3TRACKLIST AND MORE INFO: www.stonxmusic.co.uk/stonxcast-ep170

Welcome, this is the Christian's Hour. TCH is a ministry of Gospel Broadcasting Mission. Merry Christmas from all of us at The Christian's Hour and Gospel Broadcasting Mission!For most people of our culture Christmas has become so familiar; most people miss the point. Beyond the decorations and gifts in front of us, there is a much bigger story to notice, A vast forest of wonder and meaning for everyone.This Christmas season, Ben Cachiaras, the lead minister with Mountain Christian Church in Joppa, Maryland, is helping us look past the “rif-raf” of the world's version of the Holidays and the tree to see the really big picture, of the Hope Christmas represents, in this series Ben calls “Don't Miss the Forest for the Tree”.So, how are you doing with the Christmas rush? Really? Okay, together let's stop, take a deep breath, maybe take a step back and lift our eyes to the bigger picture, the meaning, the forest of what God is really doing that makes this whole thing worth celebrating in the first place. Okay, ready? Here's Ben to lead us on this journey… To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/326/29?v=20251111

On this episode of Trending with Timmerie Episode Guide Women opting out of casual sex. Saying goodbye to the hookup culture (2:07) Christmas gift ideas for adults and kids with a Catholic twist (21:14) How the fulfillment of Advent changed everything (28:45) Hope and the meaning of the Advent wreath (40:03) Resources mentioned: The State of Us: National Study on Modern Love & Dating in 2025, a survey conducted in partnership by DatingAdvice.com and the Kinsey Institute. https://www.datingadvice.com/studies/virginity-survey Book: “The incarnation, birth, and infancy of Jesus Christ” by St. Alphonsus Liguori https://tanbooks.com/products/books/the-incarnation-birth-and-infancy-of-jesus-christ-deluxe-edition/?srsltid=AfmBOorNV5eWxEhqm64wor6jTmvWR4duz9goDxv9PtMDaEByTW-r-pqx PDF of the above book https://www.saintsbooks.net/books/St.%20Alphonsus%20Maria%20de%20Liguori%20-%20Complete%20Works%20-%204%20-%20The%20Incarnation,%20Birth,%20and%20Infancy%20of%20Jesus%20Christ.pdf Christmas gift ideas - Relevant Radio Store https://relevantradio.store/ Advent/Christmas books ‘Twas the Day Before Christmas in Bethlehem Town https://amzn.to/4pFWgCZ The Wise Men Who Found Christmas https://sophiainstitute.com/product/wise-men-who-found-christmas/?srsltid=AfmBOoqbeaPvPnIgVaw3fM-g9cBe4RDr7CEQ0D0VhliSKCa55lp5WzAw Gift Ideas: Shining Light Dolls – all things Catholic kids https://shininglightdolls.com Telos Art Shop – Catholic Jewelry https://telosartshop.com/ Perfume, cologne, and more https://saltandlightbysami.com/products/perfume-sample-pack The Catholic Company https://www.catholiccompany.com My Saint My Hero – Catholic Jewelry https://mysaintmyhero.com/ House of Joppa – decor and jewelry https://www.houseofjoppa.com/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZepC159Ilur65Zk7tUfNQ4Rr477DSgnAn0ZCOV-3-hFzILn7vevlT7oNc_aem_5SiDeRO3YRWV4aEKoMIipg Chews Life – baby teething and shoes https://chewslife.com/ The Little Catholic https://thelittlecatholic.com The Protection We All Need - The Saint Benedict Medal and exorcism explained https://relevantradio.com/2025/11/the-protection-we-all-need/

TCH is a ministry of Gospel Broadcasting Mission.GBM's mission is to broadcast the message of Jesus, in their own language, to unreached people groups and tribes world-wide.For most people of our culture Christmas has become so familiar; most people miss the point. Beyond the decorations and gifts in front of us, there is a much bigger story to notice ' a vast forest of wonder and meaning for everyone.This Christmas season, Ben Cachiaras, the lead minister with Mountain Christian Church in Joppa, Maryland, is helping us look past the “rif-raf” of the world's version of the Holidays and the tree to see the really big picture, of the Hope Christmas represents, in this series Ben calls “Don't Miss the Forest for the Tree”.Years ago, I cut down a diseased tree in our front yard. I thought it was case closed. The tree, however, had other thoughts and out of that stump grew a shoot, then another and another. Today we have a beautiful… “bush”. In today's message, “Hope from the Tree Stump”, Ben shares how Jesus' birth is God making good on a promise of hope from a different kind of stump… for all of us… To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/326/29?v=20251111

In this message, Pastor Tony uses the movie Elf to frame a discussion about divine power versus secular "magic." Examining Acts 9:32-43, the sermon details two key miracles performed by Peter: the instantaneous healing of Aeneas, who had been paralyzed for eight years, and the surprising resurrection of the beloved disciple Tabitha. These acts of power lead to widespread belief in the cities of Liddah and Joppa, demonstrating that encountering Jesus's power fundamentally changes lives and communities.Subscribe to AfterWords on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Download a copy of the Exodus JournalVisit us online: rivchurch.comFollow us on InstagramSend us feedback: podcast@rivchurch.comSubscribe to AfterWords on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Visit us online: rivchurch.comFollow us on InstagramSend us feedback: podcast@rivchurch.com

In this message, the speaker Jordan reflects on the spiritual openness of young adults at the new MSU campus venue before delving into Acts 9:32-43. The sermon highlights the apostle Peter continuing the ministry of Jesus by performing two miracles: the healing of Aeneas and the resurrection of Tabitha (Dorcas). Jordan emphasizes that these physical healings and resurrections served to demonstrate Jesus's power to forgive sins and grant new life, ultimately causing many people in Liddah and Joppa to believe.Subscribe to AfterWords on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Download a copy of the Exodus JournalVisit us online: rivchurch.comFollow us on InstagramSend us feedback: podcast@rivchurch.comSubscribe to AfterWords on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.Visit us online: rivchurch.comFollow us on InstagramSend us feedback: podcast@rivchurch.com

Jonah Series: Jonah 1:3-Jonah Disobeys The Lord And Boards A Merchant Ship At Joppa Heading To Tarshish-Lesson # 6

Jonah Series: Jonah 1:3-Jonah Disobeys The Lord And Boards A Merchant Ship At Joppa Heading To Tarshish-Lesson # 6

Acts 9:32-43 demonstrates that the gospel works through us when we prioritize being present with people in their suffering, as Peter traveled strengthening believers before any miracles occurred. The transformation of Lydda and Sharon after Aeneas's healing, and Joppa after Dorcas's resurrection, shows that God uses individual encounters to spark community-wide movements. Peter staying with Simon the tanner—considered unclean by Jews—reveals another evidence: the gospel breaks down barriers we've built between ourselves and those God wants to reach.

Welcome to the TCH broadcast! TCH is a ministry of Gospel Broadcasting Mission.GBM's mission is to broadcast the message of Jesus, in their own language, to unreached people groups and tribes world-wide.There is a lot of history, a lot of meaning behind the Christmas Tree. Some would say it is pagan in its origins, others give it meaning that goes back to the original sin. But there is a danger in getting caught up in the world's version of the Christmas Tree and missing the real meaning of Christmas.This Christmas season, Ben Cachiaras, the lead minister with Mountain Christian Church in Joppa, Maryland, is helping us look past the “rif-raf” of the world's version of Christmas to see the really big picture of what Christmas represents in a series Ben calls “Don't Miss the Forest for the Tree”.Imagine with me, for a moment… in the middle of the most perfect garden you can imagine; a tree. This is no ordinary tree, it is the tree of life, eternal life. Now, imagine again, that tree made new, this time near the throne of the eternal, creator God. You know, you and I, we live in a space between those two trees. Got your attention? Here's Ben to explain… To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/326/29?v=20251111

Daily Dose of Hope December 3, 2025   Scripture - Acts 9:32-43   Prayer: Father God, hear our prayer this morning.  We are awed by your power and strength.  We are amazed by your love.  Thank you, Lord, for the many ways you show in our lives to teach us and care for us.  Help us gather our scattered thoughts right now and focus on you.  In these next few moments of silence, help us (help me) be still and know that you are God...Come Holy Spirit, and help us walk through this Scripture in a way that honors you.  Show up and help us discover whatever it is you want us to learn.  This is your Word and we want to hear from you.  In Your powerful name, Amen.   Welcome back, friends, to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that goes along with the daily Bible reading plan at New Hope Church in Brandon, Florida.  We are currently walking through the book of Acts and today we finish up Acts 9.   We learn that after Saul's conversion, there is a period of peace for the disciples of Jesus.  This allows them to move freely, share the Gospel, and do the works of healing and teaching.  In today's passage, we see the Holy Spirit working through Peter to heal a bedridden man and then resurrect a dead woman.   I would like to focus on Tabitha, also called Dorcas, a disciple in Joppa (a town that is now part of modern-day Tel Aviv).  Dorcas took care of most of the widows in that area.  Really, she had created a community of widows who had become her family. Remember, widows are some of the most vulnerable people in that society.  Without a husband or son to care for them, they have no way to care for themselves.  If it weren't for God's people, they would be doomed to a life of poverty and/or prostitution.  Dorcas cared for these women and they loved her dearly.  This is a woman whose life had significant impact on a group of women that would otherwise have been overlooked in their culture.  When Peter sees the situation, he is moved with compassion.  He prays and Dorcas is restored to life.    We serve a God of resurrection.  How do you need to see resurrection in your life today?  Let's reframe that a bit.  In the hustle and bustle of Christmas, where can you see new life and resurrection?  Where can you be a Tabitha?   Blessings, Pastor Vicki    

On this episode of Trending with Timmerie Episode Guide Women opting out of casual sex. Saying goodbye to the hookup culture (2:07) Christmas gift ideas for adults and kids with a Catholic twist (21:14) How the fulfillment of Advent changed everything (28:45) Hope and the meaning of the Advent wreath (40:03) Resources mentioned: The State of Us: National Study on Modern Love & Dating in 2025, a survey conducted in partnership by DatingAdvice.com and the Kinsey Institute. https://www.datingadvice.com/studies/virginity-survey Book: “The incarnation, birth, and infancy of Jesus Christ” by St. Alphonsus Liguori https://tanbooks.com/products/books/the-incarnation-birth-and-infancy-of-jesus-christ-deluxe-edition/?srsltid=AfmBOorNV5eWxEhqm64wor6jTmvWR4duz9goDxv9PtMDaEByTW-r-pqx PDF of the above book https://www.saintsbooks.net/books/St.%20Alphonsus%20Maria%20de%20Liguori%20-%20Complete%20Works%20-%204%20-%20The%20Incarnation,%20Birth,%20and%20Infancy%20of%20Jesus%20Christ.pdf Christmas gift ideas - Relevant Radio Store https://relevantradio.store/ Advent/Christmas books ‘Twas the Day Before Christmas in Bethlehem Town https://amzn.to/4pFWgCZ The Wise Men Who Found Christmas https://sophiainstitute.com/product/wise-men-who-found-christmas/?srsltid=AfmBOoqbeaPvPnIgVaw3fM-g9cBe4RDr7CEQ0D0VhliSKCa55lp5WzAw Gift Ideas: Shining Light Dolls – all things Catholic kids https://shininglightdolls.com Telos Art Shop – Catholic Jewelry https://telosartshop.com/ Perfume cologne and more https://saltandlightbysami.com/products/perfume-sample-pack The Catholic Company https://www.catholiccompany.com My Saint My Hero – Catholic Jewelry https://mysaintmyhero.com/ House of Joppa – decor and jewelry https://www.houseofjoppa.com/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZepC159Ilur65Zk7tUfNQ4Rr477DSgnAn0ZCOV-3-hFzILn7vevlT7oNc_aem_5SiDeRO3YRWV4aEKoMIipg Chews Life – baby teething and shoes https://chewslife.com/ The Little Catholic https://thelittlecatholic.com The Protection We All Need - The Saint Benedict Medal and exorcism explained https://relevantradio.com/2025/11/the-protection-we-all-need/

Worship Service

Discover the transformative power of the gospel as it spreads beyond cultural boundaries. Journey through the early church's pivotal moments, including Saul's dramatic conversion, Peter's vision of unclean animals, and the groundbreaking encounter with Cornelius, a Roman centurion. Witness how God breaks down barriers between Jews and Gentiles, paving the way for a unified body of believers in Christ. This episode explores themes of divine guidance, spiritual transformation, and the universal nature of God's love. Key figures like Peter, Saul (later Paul), and Cornelius demonstrate the far-reaching impact of Jesus' message. From Damascus to Jerusalem, Joppa to Caesarea, follow the apostles as they navigate cultural challenges and spread the good news. Gain insights into early Christian missionary work and the Holy Spirit's role in expanding the church beyond its Jewish roots.Support the showRead along with us in the Bible Brief App! Try the Bible Brief book for an offline experience!Get your free Bible Timeline with the 10 Steps: Timeline LinkSupport the show: Tap here to become a monthly supporter!Review the show: Tap here!Want to go deeper?...Download the Bible Brief App!iPhone: App Store LinkAndroid: Play Store LinkWant a physical book? Check out "Bible Brief" by our founder!Amazon: Amazon LinkWebsite: biblebrief.orgInstagram: @biblelitTwitter: @bible_litFacebook: @biblelitEmail the Show: biblebrief@biblelit.org Want to learn the Bible languages (Greek & Hebrew)? Check out ou...

Friday Bible Study (11/7/25) // Ezra 3:1-7- (ESV) //Rebuilding the Altar1 When the seventh month came, and the children of Israel were in the towns, the people gathered as one man to Jerusalem. 2 Then arose Jeshua the son of Jozadak, with his fellow priests, and Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel with his kinsmen, and they built the altar of the God of Israel, to offer burnt offerings on it, as it is written in the Law of Moses the man of God. 3 They set the altar in its place, for fear was on them because of the peoples of the lands, and they offered burnt offerings on it to the Lord, burnt offerings morning and evening. 4 And they kept the Feast of Booths, as it is written, and offered the daily burnt offerings by number according to the rule, as each day required, 5 and after that the regular burnt offerings, the offerings at the new moon and at all the appointed feasts of the Lord, and the offerings of everyone who made a freewill offering to the Lord. 6 From the first day of the seventh month they began to offer burnt offerings to the Lord. But the foundation of the temple of the Lord was not yet laid. 7 So they gave money to the masons and the carpenters, and food, drink, and oil to the Sidonians and the Tyrians to bring cedar trees from Lebanon to the sea, to Joppa, according to the grant that they had from Cyrus king of Persia.Website: https://mbchicago.org FOLLOW US Facebook:   / mbc.chicago   Instagram:   / mbc.chicago   TikTok:   / mbc.chicago   Podcasts: Listen on Apple, Spotify & others TO SUPPORT US Zelle to: info@mbchicago.org Website: https://mbchicago.org/give Venmo: https://venmo.com/mbchurch DAF Donations: https://every.org/mbc.chicago PayPal: https://paypal.com/donate/?hosted_but... #Ezra #DanielBatarseh #BibleStudy #mbchicago #mbcchicago #Bible #versebyverse #church #chicago #livechurch #churchlive #chicagochurch #chicagochurches #sermon #bibleexplained #bibleproject #bibleverse #bookbybook #oldtestament #explained

Pekárka Stanka alias Stanislava Obžerová je ďalšou vypadnutou súťažiacou z televíznej šou Pečie celé Slovensko. Čo pre ňu bolo šokujúcim prekvapením? Aj to povie v rozhovore. Martin Joppa, kapitán našich parahokejistov, a manažér tímu Miro Dráb budú súčasťou reprezentácie Slovenska na Zimných paralympijských hrách Miláno – Cortina 2026. Aké sú ich pocity a očakávania? Profesorka Mária Bieliková rozpráva o umelej inteligencii. Ako sa dostáva do našich životov a môže nás AI nahradiť? O čom je deň modrých svetiel? Prezradí Zuzana Chudobová, predsedníčka Správnej rady UNICEF, ktorá odpovie aj na to, čo dnes deťom vo svete najviac chýba? Pedagogička herectva Nora Czuczor rozpráva o pripravovanom detskom seriáli Slovenskej televízie Marínka Somarinka. Poradí, v akom veku by malo dieťa začať s hereckou kariérou. Vypočujte si, čo by odporučila tým, ktorí túžia stáť pred kamerou. | Hostia: Stanislava Obžerová, Martin Joppa, Miro Dráb, Mária Bieliková, Zuzana Chudobová, Nora Czuczor. | Moderujú: Gabika Angibaud a Richard Dedek. | Počúvajte rozhovory s našimi hosťami v programe Dobré ráno, Slovensko! každý pracovný deň po 8:20. Hosť DRS pripravuje Slovenský rozhlas, Rádio Slovensko, SRo1.

Jonah 1:3 (KJV) But Jonah rose up to flee unto Tarshish from the presence of the LORD, and went down to Joppa; and he found a ship going to Tarshish: so he paid the fare thereof, and went down into it, to go with them unto Tarshish from the presence of the LORD. Jonah 1:4 (KJV) But the LORD sent out a great wind into the sea, and there was a mighty tempest in the sea, so that the ship was like to be broken. Jonah 1:5 (KJV) Then the mariners were afraid, and cried every man unto his god, and cast forth the wares that were in the ship into the sea, to lighten it of them. But Jonah was gone down into the sides of the ship; and he lay, and was fast asleep. Jonah 1:13 (KJV) Nevertheless the men rowed hard to bring it to the land; but they could not: for the sea wrought, and was tempestuous against them. Jonah 2:9 (KJV) But I will sacrifice unto thee with the voice of thanksgiving; I will pay that that I have vowed. Salvation is of the LORD. Jonah 3:8 (KJV) But let man and beast be covered with sackcloth, and cry mightily unto God: yea, let them turn every one from his evil way, and from the violence that is in their hands. Jonah 4:1 (KJV) But it displeased Jonah exceedingly, and he was very angry. Jonah 4:7 (KJV) But God prepared a worm when the morning rose the next day, and it smote the gourd that it withered.

What's greater than healing the sick—or even raising the dead? When Peter prayed and Tabitha rose to life, the entire city of Joppa was shaken, and many turned to Christ. Join Jim Scudder on InGrace for part two of Are Faith Healers Fake Healers?

In this Bible Story, Peter discovers that the kingdom of God is expanding to more than just the Jews. Through his interactions with Cornelius, Peter begins to learn that God was going to extend his reach to all the nations. This story is inspired by Acts 10:1-11:18. Go to BibleinaYear.com and learn the Bible in a Year.Today's Bible verse is Acts 11:9 from the King James Version.Episode 225: In Caesarea, there was a centurion named Cornelius. He was a good man and a God-fearing man, but he was also a Roman gentile. He prayed to God daily and sought to do good to those who were less fortunate. His prayers were heard by God, and God told him in a dream to send for a man named Peter who was staying in Joppa. At the same time, Peter was praying and in a vision experienced a message from God about calling anything unclean or common. When the men sent by Cornelius arrived, he went with them, and when the whole party arrived at the house of Cornelius, Peter saw what God was trying to tell him. He then obediently preached the message of Jesus to Cornelius’ entire household. All of Cornelius’ family and friends came to believe in Jesus and were baptized.Hear the Bible come to life as Pastor Jack Graham leads you through the official BibleinaYear.com podcast. This Biblical Audio Experience will help you master wisdom from the world’s greatest book. In each episode, you will learn to apply Biblical principles to everyday life. Now understanding the Bible is easier than ever before; enjoy a cinematic audio experience full of inspirational storytelling, orchestral music, and profound commentary from world-renowned Pastor Jack Graham.Also, you can download the Pray.com app for more Christian content, including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.Visit JackGraham.org for more resources on how to tap into God's power for successful Christian living.Pray.com is the digital destination of faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store.Executive Producers: Steve Gatena & Max BardProducer: Ben GammonHosted by: Pastor Jack GrahamMusic by: Andrew Morgan SmithBible Story narration by: Todd HaberkornSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this Bible Story, we see the work of God through Peter. One man is restored from being crippled for eight years. Another is dead and raised to life. In this, we see the will of God moving people out of their beds into a life of purpose. This story is inspired by Acts 9:32-43. Go to https://www.BibleinaYear.com and learn the Bible in a Year.Today's Bible verse is Acts 9:34 from the King James Version.Episode 224: Peter, walking the streets of Lydda preaching the Gospel to all who would listen, came to a man named Aeneas. Aeneas had been bedridden for eight years but God had sent Peter there to heal him. And at a word, Aeneas was healed and God used this healing to bring many people to Him. Meanwhile, in Joppa, a disciple named Tabitha became ill and died. Her friends sent for Peter at once and when he arrived he took Tabitha by the hand and told her to arise. God restored life to Tabitha’s body and many people celebrated God’s goodness with her.Hear the Bible come to life as Pastor Jack Graham leads you through the official BibleinaYear.com podcast. This Biblical Audio Experience will help you master wisdom from the world’s greatest book. In each episode, you will learn to apply Biblical principles to everyday life. Now understanding the Bible is easier than ever before; enjoy a cinematic audio experience full of inspirational storytelling, orchestral music, and profound commentary from world-renowned Pastor Jack Graham.Also, you can download the Pray.com app for more Christian content, including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.Visit JackGraham.org for more resources on how to tap into God's power for successful Christian living.Pray.com is the digital destination of faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store.Executive Producers: Steve Gatena & Max BardProducer: Ben GammonHosted by: Pastor Jack GrahamMusic by: Andrew Morgan SmithBible Story narration by: Todd HaberkornSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greetings and welcome! Today, I'm coming to you from the Port of Joppa (modern day Jaffa) and Simon the Tanner's house in order to give some sights to names and places we have read about in the Bible countless times. Thanks for joining me!

2 Chronicles 29 says that Hezekiah was 25 when he began to rule and reigned for 29 years. Hezekiah walks in the ways of David (his spiritual father). Hezekiah was Judah's greatest ever king - read the testimony in 2 Kings 18 verse 5. This king cleanses the temple from the filth of his father, Ahaz. The Levites had to assist the priests with the task. Note the power of the words of verse 17 - the dedicated work began on the first day of his first month. They prepare for the Passover massive sacrifices and the offerings began as the music of praise and worship began. Seventy bulls were offered representing the 70 nations (Deuteronomy 32:8). Despite the suddenness of what the king did the people rejoiced and supported the Feast.Daniel 9 tells of the prophet's sadness when he realises that the exiles would be in Babylon for 70 years as spoken by Jeremiah in chapter 25. From verses 3-19 Daniel in his prayer confesses his sin and that of the nation expressing that they deserve what had befallen them. From the time he commences praying the angel Gabriel is sent to the beloved prophet to give him understanding of what is termed "the 70 weeks prophecy". That prophecy concerns the work of the Lord Jesus Christ - Messiah the Prince to bring in a "righteousness of the ages". The work is completed between AD30 with the crucifixion and the 70 weeks ending in AD32 with the stoning of Stephen. Each of the segments mentioned can be precisely dated from the archaeological records which exist. Because of the great sin of the nation in crucifying the Lord of glory and refusing the short period provided for repentance Rome would come and destroy Jerusalem. The year was AD33 when we read in Acts 9 of the conversion of Saul of Tarsus. Saul is seeking to destroy the believers in Christ who dwelt in Damascus. Saul presses on as the fierce Syrian sun burns brightly in the sky. Saul is blinded by a light stronger than the sun and he is stirred by a voice that he may well have known, "Saul, Saul why are you persecuting me?" The Syriac Pashito, whose phrase, "It is hard for you to kick against the goads" is added to the English KJV. Saul's response is, "Who are you Lord?" With his eyes blinded and his mind in total turmoil and his entire world view turned upside down (as would be said of him in Acts 17:6) he is led by the hand into the city to await instructions. For three days Saul neither ate nor drank. Ananias is told to go to Saul to lay hands on him to recover Saul's sight. Ananias is further told of Saul's mission which Almighty God has marked out for him. Saul is a chosen vessel to take Christ's message before kings. Ananias goes to the street which ironically named "Straight". Ramsay says in his book that it was the most crooked street in all Damascus. Ananias courageously lays his hands on Saul and restores his sight and imparts to Saul the Holy Spirit. Saul preaches Jesus in the Damascene synagogues to the astonishment of all. From there Saul goes to Jerusalem and seeks association with the believers, who shun him believing that Saul is using a ruse to get among them. Respite from persecution is granted to the ecclesias. Peter heals Aeneas at Lydda slightly inland from Joppa; then at Joppa he is shown the clothes that Dorcas had made for the widows and orphans before her decease. Peter raises her to life to continue her work and from there Peter he goes to the house of Simon the tanner. We might pose a question: Did Peter go to the house of a tanner to prepare himself to accept that ceremonial uncleanness was no longer relevant as we will see in our reading tomorrow from Acts 10?Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow

2 Chronicles 29 says that Hezekiah was 25 when he began to rule and reigned for 29 years. Hezekiah walks in the ways of David (his spiritual father). Hezekiah was Judah's greatest ever king - read the testimony in 2 Kings 18 verse 5. This king cleanses the temple from the filth of his father, Ahaz. The Levites had to assist the priests with the task. Note the power of the words of verse 17 - the dedicated work began on the first day of his first month. They prepare for the Passover massive sacrifices and the offerings began as the music of praise and worship began. Seventy bulls were offered representing the 70 nations (Deuteronomy 32:8). Despite the suddenness of what the king did the people rejoiced and supported the Feast. Daniel 9 tells of the prophet's sadness when he realises that the exiles would be in Babylon for 70 years as spoken by Jeremiah in chapter 25. From verses 3-19 Daniel in his prayer confesses his sin and that of the nation expressing that they deserve what had befallen them. From the time he commences praying the angel Gabriel is sent to the beloved prophet to give him understanding of what is termed "the 70 weeks prophecy". That prophecy concerns the work of the Lord Jesus Christ - Messiah the Prince to bring in a "righteousness of the ages". The work is completed between AD30 with the crucifixion and the 70 weeks ending in AD32 with the stoning of Stephen. Each of the segments mentioned can be precisely dated from the archaeological records which exist. Because of the great sin of the nation in crucifying the Lord of glory and refusing the short period provided for repentance Rome would come and destroy Jerusalem. The year was AD33 when we read in Acts 9 of the conversion of Saul of Tarsus. Saul is seeking to destroy the believers in Christ who dwelt in Damascus. Saul presses on as the fierce Syrian sun burns brightly in the sky. Saul is blinded by a light stronger than the sun and he is stirred by a voice that he may well have known, "Saul, Saul why are you persecuting me?" The Syriac Pashito, whose phrase, "It is hard for you to kick against the goads" is added to the English KJV. Saul's response is, "Who are you Lord?" With his eyes blinded and his mind in total turmoil and his entire world view turned upside down (as would be said of him in Acts 17:6) he is led by the hand into the city to await instructions. For three days Saul neither ate nor drank. Ananias is told to go to Saul to lay hands on him to recover Saul's sight. Ananias is further told of Saul's mission which Almighty God has marked out for him. Saul is a chosen vessel to take Christ's message before kings. Ananias goes to the street which ironically named "Straight". Ramsay says in his book that it was the most crooked street in all Damascus. Ananias courageously lays his hands on Saul and restores his sight and imparts to Saul the Holy Spirit. Saul preaches Jesus in the Damascene synagogues to the astonishment of all. From there Saul goes to Jerusalem and seeks association with the believers, who shun him believing that Saul is using a ruse to get among them. Respite from persecution is granted to the ecclesias. Peter heals Aeneas at Lydda slightly inland from Joppa; then at Joppa he is shown the clothes that Dorcas had made for the widows and orphans before her decease. Peter raises her to life to continue her work and from there Peter he goes to the house of Simon the tanner. We might pose a question: Did Peter go to the house of a tanner to prepare himself to accept that ceremonial uncleanness was no longer relevant as we will see in our reading tomorrow from Acts 10? Thanks for joining us - we pray you found these comments helpful in your appreciation of God's words, join again tomorrow 

Recorded between the dramatic scenes of Saul's conversion and Peter's calling to Cornelius are two unexpected miracles and a small detail about Peter's accommodations in Joppa. These stories play no major role in the plot of Acts, so why has Luke decided to place them between such major turning points?

Introducing Tabitha, a great servant.   Dorcas (Tabitha) – The Seamstress of Compassion • Mentioned in Acts 9:36–43, Dorcas lived in Joppa and was known for her “good works and acts of charity.” • She made clothing for widows and the poor, embodying hands-on service and generosity. • When she died, the community mourned deeply—so much so that Peter was called to raise her from the dead, a testament to her impact    serving is The Way to go.   Kenn  blusician.com 

Pastor Taylor Shippy - Jonah 1:1-3, 3:1-3; 4:1-4; Acts 10:1-48Where are you headed? To Tarshish or Caesarea? Everyone in the Bible who leaves Joppa is usually headed either to one of two places: Tarshish or Caesarea.So—Which one are you headed to?Tarshish or Caesarea?

Come As You Are Series- JonahJonah 1:1-3 “The word of the Lord came to Jonah, son of Amittai:  'Go to the great city of Nineveh and preach against it, because its wickedness has come up before me.”  But Jonah ran away from the Lord and headed for Tarshish. He went down to Joppa, where he found a ship bound for that port. After paying the fare, he went aboard and sailed for Tarshish to flee from the Lord.”Jonah is a great person to discuss this morning because we can all relate to him for several reasons. The first one is displayed in this verse. The Lord came to Jonah and asked him to do something, and Jonah ran away from the Lord. How many of us have done that before? Maybe not physically run away like Jonah did, but we do not do what God asks. We tell Him no, with a whole host of reasons why we can't do it. Or, maybe we ignore the Lord, busy ourselves with work and other things, and pretend that he didn't ask us to do anything. Both of these are similar to Jonah. The Lord asked Him to do something He didn't want to do, and so He left.This didn't work out so well for Jonah. He got on a boat headed in the other direction, and God sent a storm to the ship. The other people on the boat asked what was going on. They drew lots to see who was behind this storm, and Jonah drew the short lot. They asked Jonah what they should do, and he said to throw him over the side of the ship into the water. They were afraid to do this, as they knew he was a man of God. They tried to row back to safety, but did not have any luck. So they prayed God would not hold it against him if they killed this man, and then they threw him over the side of the ship.As soon as they threw him over the side of the ship, the raging sea grew calm. “At this, the men greatly feared the Lord, and they offered a sacrifice to the Lord and made vows to him.” (Jonah 1:16) These men all became God fearing after God calmed the sea. Even though Jonah was trying to run away from the Lord, God still used that circumstance to bring about the conversion of hearts. God can do the same with our actions. He can take our actions and their consequences and use them for good. He can take them and use them for the conversion of others in ways we can't even imagine.When they threw Jonah over the side of the boat, he was swallowed up by a whale or some giant sea creature. While he was sitting in the belly of the sea creature, he was praying to the Lord, and the Lord heard his prayers and had the fish spit him out on dry land. Then the Lord tells Jonah to go to Ninevah to give them the message that God gave to Jonah. So, this time, Jonah goes and does what is asked of him. Jonah tells Nineveh that it will be overthrown in 40 days if they do not repent and change their ways. As soon as the king heard this, he declared a fast in the land, and all of Ninevah repented and turned back to the Lord. When the Lord saw how they repented and turned from their evil ways, He relented and did not cause destruction.You would think, after all that, Jonah would be happy. He did what the Lord asked him to do, and the people actually listened to him. Yet, Jonah wasn't happy. Jonah was upset that God spared the people of Ninevah. He thought that they deserved to die, and he wasn't happy that they took the second chance and turned from their evil ways. We have all been here in one way or another before. Have you ever been upset that someone got away with something that you think they should have been punished for? Have you ever seen someone do something and then wished they would get in trouble for it? One common example I can think of is when we are driving and see someone else driving unsafely, and we hope they get pulled over by a police officer. It is not our place to decide what should happen to others.God chose Jonah for this task, and Jonah ran from it. How many of us have done that? How many of us have run from a task because we didn't want to do it? Jonah ran because he knew how good God was. He understood that if Ninevah repented, God would save them, and he didn't want them to be saved. He didn't think they deserved it. How many of us have run from a call from the Lord because we disagreed with Him? It might not be the same situation as Jonah, but we disagreed that we were the right people or that we had the skills it took to do what He wanted us to do. We might all have different reasons for running from what the Lord calls us to do.However, Jonah's story reminds us of a few things. First, just because we ran doesn't mean God gives that call to someone else. He is still waiting for you to do what He called you to do. Second, he can use bad consequences for good, like when Jonah ran from God, and the others on the ship almost died in the storm until they threw him off the ship. God used that to convert the hearts of all those on the ship. Whatever bad came out of you running from the Lord, He can redeem it. He can use it for good. The important thing is that we turn back to the Lord and that we answer that call. God doesn't make mistakes. If He is calling you to something, then He will help you do it. If he is calling you to it, then you are the perfect person for the job, even if you don't see how or why.Jonah's story also reminds us that God is sovereign. We don't know all the things that He knows. Just because what God is doing doesn't make sense to us, that doesn't mean it doesn't make sense. God knows the whole picture. He knows all the details. We only know the few tiny things we can see from the outside looking in. We need to trust that God knows what He is doing. We need to understand that He sees things we don't see. He knows what we can and can't do. He knows us better than we know ourselves. So, if God says you can do it, then you can do it. Stop running and face the task He is asking you to do!Dear Heavenly Father, I ask you to bless each person listening. Lord, we all want to be able to do what you are calling us to do. We want to trust you and believe we can do it. Please help us, Lord. Lord, help us not to run from you but to run towards you. Please help us not to think we know better than you do. You are the almighty one. You are Lord of Lords and King of Kings. You know all things, and we love you. Please help us to continuously come back to you. We pray all this in accordance with your will and in Jesus's holy name, Amen!!Thank you so much for joining me on this journey to walk boldly with Jesus. Thank you for all your prayers for the retreat this weekend. It was an awesome weekend. I also want to remind everyone that my new book is out. It is called Walk Boldly With Jesus Devotionals: Who I Am: Discovering God's Truth About Me. I am very excited about it. CLICK HERE if you want to check it out! Remember, Jesus loves you just as you are, and so do I! Have a blessed day!Today's Word from the Lord was received in May 2025 by a member of my Catholic Charismatic Prayer Group. If you have any questions about the prayer group, these words, or how to join us for a meeting, please email CatholicCharismaticPrayerGroup@gmail.com. Today's Word from the Lord is, “I got the image of Jesus as a carpenter coming into our hearts and stripping away all the old wallpaper, layers and layers of crud, and then just replacing it with brand new, shining, you know, immaculate white paint and welcoming the Holy Spirit in.” www.findingtruenorthcoaching.comCLICK HERE TO DONATECLICK HERE to sign up for Mentoring CLICK HERE to sign up for Daily "Word from the Lord" emailsCLICK HERE to sign up for my newsletter & receive a free audio training about inviting Jesus into your daily lifeCLICK HERE to buy my book Total Trust in God's Safe Embrace

IN THE STORM Jonah 1.4-16 Last week, we discussed the WHY: Jonah bolted because God was sending him to Nineveh, known for their evil and cruelty. Jonah buys a ticket for Tarshish. The writer of Jonah loves the word “down.” • Jonah went down to Joppa (v1,3) • He went down to the ship (v3) • He went down into the inner part of the ship (v5) • There, he laid down (v5) • And he went down into the sea, into the belly of a fish. Isn't that how it works? Small steps until you realize you're completely underwater. Jonah 1.4–6 (ESV) The Lord hurled a great wind upon the sea, and there was a mighty tempest on the sea, so that the ship threatened to break up. Then the mariners were afraid, and each cried out to his god. And they hurled the cargo that was in the ship into the sea to lighten it for them. But Jonah had gone down into the inner part of the ship and had lain down and was fast asleep. So the captain came and said to him, “What do you mean, you sleeper? Arise, call out to your god! Perhaps the god will give a thought to us, that we may not perish.” C. S. Lewis: “Pain is God's megaphone to rouse a deaf world.” Hebrews 12.6-7 (NLT) says, “The Lord disciplines those He loves.” When storms hit, we may grumble, “Why me?” For the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes each one he accepts as his child.” As you endure this divine discipline, remember that God is treating you as his own children. Who ever heard of a child who is never disciplined by its father? God hasn't given up on us. He loves us enough to shake us awake. Verse 5 says, “Each cried out to his god.” That's what people do in storms: they run to their gods. But false gods can't calm real storms. What do storms do? • Storms reveal our gods. Who do you turn to first when life falls apart? That's your god. • Storms remind us of God's sovereignty. Storms show us we're not in control. • Storms redirect us. • Storms bring unexpected conversions. Jonah wasn't aiming to evangelize sailors, but his storm became their salvation. Jonah: “Worst Missionary of All Time” • He didn't want to go. • He hated those to whom he was being sent. • He literally begged people to kill him so he wouldn't have to preach. Why worship God even in our storms: • God loves us enough to send storms. Storms are not punishment but rescue missions. • Knowledge without obedience is useless. Jonah knew the right God but lived the wrong way. • Our storms may lead others to salvation. Your struggle might become someone else's testimony. • The storm is not the end. Jonah went down, but grace was waiting even in the deep. Jonah's storm led sailors to worship and eventually led Jonah to repentance. What might God be up to in your storm?Subscribe to PRESTONCREST - with Gordon Dabbs on Soundwise

IN THE STORM Jonah 1.4-16 Last week, we discussed the WHY: Jonah bolted because God was sending him to Nineveh, known for their evil and cruelty. Jonah buys a ticket for Tarshish. The writer of Jonah loves the word “down.” • Jonah went down to Joppa (v1,3) • He went down to the ship (v3) • He went down into the inner part of the ship (v5) • There, he laid down (v5) • And he went down into the sea, into the belly of a fish. Isn't that how it works? Small steps until you realize you're completely underwater. Jonah 1.4–6 (ESV) The Lord hurled a great wind upon the sea, and there was a mighty tempest on the sea, so that the ship threatened to break up. Then the mariners were afraid, and each cried out to his god. And they hurled the cargo that was in the ship into the sea to lighten it for them. But Jonah had gone down into the inner part of the ship and had lain down and was fast asleep. So the captain came and said to him, “What do you mean, you sleeper? Arise, call out to your god! Perhaps the god will give a thought to us, that we may not perish.” C. S. Lewis: “Pain is God's megaphone to rouse a deaf world.” Hebrews 12.6-7 (NLT) says, “The Lord disciplines those He loves.” When storms hit, we may grumble, “Why me?” For the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes each one he accepts as his child.” As you endure this divine discipline, remember that God is treating you as his own children. Who ever heard of a child who is never disciplined by its father? God hasn't given up on us. He loves us enough to shake us awake. Verse 5 says, “Each cried out to his god.” That's what people do in storms: they run to their gods. But false gods can't calm real storms. What do storms do? • Storms reveal our gods. Who do you turn to first when life falls apart? That's your god. • Storms remind us of God's sovereignty. Storms show us we're not in control. • Storms redirect us. • Storms bring unexpected conversions. Jonah wasn't aiming to evangelize sailors, but his storm became their salvation. Jonah: “Worst Missionary of All Time” • He didn't want to go. • He hated those to whom he was being sent. • He literally begged people to kill him so he wouldn't have to preach. Why worship God even in our storms: • God loves us enough to send storms. Storms are not punishment but rescue missions. • Knowledge without obedience is useless. Jonah knew the right God but lived the wrong way. • Our storms may lead others to salvation. Your struggle might become someone else's testimony. • The storm is not the end. Jonah went down, but grace was waiting even in the deep. Jonah's storm led sailors to worship and eventually led Jonah to repentance. What might God be up to in your storm?Subscribe to PRESTONCREST - with Gordon Dabbs on Soundwise

Jonah 1:1-3 ESV1 Now the word of the Lord came to Jonah the son of Amittai, saying, 2 “Arise, go to Nineveh, that great city, and call out against it, for their evil has come up before me.” 3 But Jonah rose to flee to Tarshish from the presence of the Lord. He went down to Joppa and found a ship going to Tarshish. So he paid the fare and went down into it, to go with them to Tarshish, away from the presence of the Lord. • • •1. The Call of the Prophet • • •Jonah 1:1 ESV1 Now the word of the Lord came to Jonah the son of Amittai, saying, • • •2 Kings 14:25 ESV25 He restored the border of Israel from Lebo-hamath as far as the Sea of the Arabah, according to the word of the Lord, the God of Israel, which he spoke by his servant Jonah the son of Amittai, the prophet, who was from Gath-hepher.Add your private notes...• • •Matthew 12:39-41 ESV39 But he answered them, “An evil and adulterous generation seeks for a sign, but no sign will be given to it except the sign of the prophet Jonah. 40 For just as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of the great fish, so will the Son of Man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth. 41 The men of Nineveh will rise up at the judgment with this generation and condemn it, for they repented at the preaching of Jonah, and behold, something greater than Jonah is here. • • •2. God's Plan • • •Jonah 1:2 ESV2 “Arise, go to Nineveh, that great city, and call out against it, for their evil has come up before me.” • • •Matthew 28:19-20 ESV19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” • • •3. Jonah's Plan • • •Jonah 1:3 ESV3 But Jonah rose to flee to Tarshish from the presence of the Lord. He went down to Joppa and found a ship going to Tarshish. So he paid the fare and went down into it, to go with them to Tarshish, away from the presence of the Lord. • • •Psalm 139:7-12 ESV7 Where shall I go from your Spirit? Or where shall I flee from your presence? 8 If I ascend to heaven, you are there! If I make my bed in Sheol, you are there! 9 If I take the wings of the morning and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, 10 even there your hand shall lead me, and your right hand shall hold me. 11 If I say, “Surely the darkness shall cover me, and the light about me be night,” 12 even the darkness is not dark to you; the night is bright as the day, for darkness is as light with you. • • •Jonah 4:2 ESV2 And he prayed to the Lord and said, “O Lord, is not this what I said when I was yet in my country? That is why I made haste to flee to Tarshish; for I knew that you are a gracious God and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love, and relenting from disaster. • • •4. Consequences of Running from God • • •Proverbs 3:5-6 ESV5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. 6 In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. • • •Application:We are not to run from God but to Him and when we do, we will find ourselves living His will for our lives.

In this Bible Story, Jesus reveals himself to be the messiah towards a woman at the well. This woman is the adulteress from Samaria and when she discovered Jesus was the Messiah, she ran to go and tell everyone. This story is inspired by John 4:1-42. Go to BibleinaYear.com and learn the Bible in a Year.Today's Bible verse is John 4:14 from the King James Version.Episode 179: Around noontime, as Jesus was traveling through Samaria, He went to rest near a well. While there, He met a woman coming up to draw water. As they exchanged conversation, she came to realize that the man she was speaking to was the Messiah she had been looking for! She ran at once to tell all her neighbors to come see the man who told her about living water. And when they did, they believed.Hear the Bible come to life as Pastor Jack Graham leads you through the official BibleinaYear.com podcast. This Biblical Audio Experience will help you master wisdom from the world’s greatest book. In each episode, you will learn to apply Biblical principles to everyday life. Now understanding the Bible is easier than ever before; enjoy a cinematic audio experience full of inspirational storytelling, orchestral music, and profound commentary from world-renowned Pastor Jack Graham.Also, you can download the Pray.com app for more Christian content, including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.Visit JackGraham.org for more resources on how to tap into God's power for successful Christian living.Pray.com is the digital destination of faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store.Executive Producers: Steve Gatena & Max BardProducer: Ben GammonHosted by: Pastor Jack GrahamMusic by: Andrew Morgan SmithBible Story narration by: Todd HaberkornSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this Bible Story, we witness the righteous anger of Jesus. During the Passover, corrupt money-changers and religious leaders exploit people’s desire to worship. So Jesus fashions a whip and drives them out. This story is inspired by John 2:13-23, John 3: 1-21, Numbers 21:4-9. Go to BibleinaYear.com and learn the Bible in a Year.Today's Bible verse is John 2:15 from the King James Version.Episode 178: As Jesus entered the temple gates during Passover, His eyes were open to the corruption of that sacred place. Where there should have been awe and a sense of holiness, a marketplace existed. Instead of forgiveness, the religious leaders were requiring fees. Jesus could not stand this happening in God’s temple, so He drove out the buyers, sellers, and the money changers! The temple priests challenged Him on this but Jesus did not falter. Later that evening though, one of the Pharisees came to Him to know more about who He was and what He came to do.Hear the Bible come to life as Pastor Jack Graham leads you through the official BibleinaYear.com podcast. This Biblical Audio Experience will help you master wisdom from the world’s greatest book. In each episode, you will learn to apply Biblical principles to everyday life. Now understanding the Bible is easier than ever before; enjoy a cinematic audio experience full of inspirational storytelling, orchestral music, and profound commentary from world-renowned Pastor Jack Graham.Also, you can download the Pray.com app for more Christian content, including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.Visit JackGraham.org for more resources on how to tap into God's power for successful Christian living.Pray.com is the digital destination of faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store.Executive Producers: Steve Gatena & Max BardProducer: Ben GammonHosted by: Pastor Jack GrahamMusic by: Andrew Morgan SmithBible Story narration by: Todd HaberkornSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Your Daily Prayer

All of Scripture comes to this: hope and trust.Not in the work of our hands, but in the righteousness of God.He alone vindicates the poor, he alone tends the needy.He is the Good Shepherd, the breath in the night,the voice that calms the storm,the hand that keeps the wolf at bay.Will we close the gates?Will we bind ourselves in chains?Will we send him away?To wait is to hope.Yet waiting is also a test,a scrutiny that ends in failure or in faith,in ruin or in steadfastness.Who can endure?Who will remain when the King returns—ignoring the mockery of nations,turning only for his guidance,submitting to his Command before the Hour,trusting in the Day?“Lift up your heads, you gates,And be lifted up, you ancient doors,That the King of glory may come in!Who is the King of glory?The Lord strong and mighty,The Lord mighty in battle.Lift up your heads, you gates,And lift them up, you ancient doors,That the King of glory may come in!Who is this King of glory?The Lord of hosts,He is the King of glory.” (Psalm 24:7-10)This week, I discuss Luke 8:40.Καὶ ἐν τῷ ὑποστρέφειν τὸν Ἰησοῦν ἀπεδέξατο αὐτὸν ὁ ὄχλος· ἦσαν γὰρ πάντες προσδοκῶντες αὐτόν.“And as Jesus returned, the crowd welcomed ἀπεδέξατο (apedéxato) him, for they were all waiting προσδοκῶντες (prosdokôntes) for him.”Show Notesἀποδέχομαι (apodechomai)ἀποδέχομαι (apodechomai) is a compound (ἀπό + δέχομαι) constructed on the core usages of “receiving, welcoming, taking in.” The prefix ἀπό (apo) heightens the action, not just marking reception but sharpening it into a decisive acceptance: an acknowledgment that leans toward submission rather than casual receiving.Its itinerary begins in the Greek text with the notion of hospitality and reception: the gates opened for Judith, the honor paid in Joppa, the joyful welcome of brothers in Jerusalem, and the warm acceptance of a report. From there, its usage expands into the realm of acknowledgment and recognition: the acceptance of terms, the granting of petitions, the understanding of a matter, the admission of information, the acknowledgment of divine sovereignty, the cognitive recognition of realities, and the formal acknowledgments offered in speech. Finally, in the New Testament, the term reaches its full significance in submission to the divine words: those who receive the apostolic proclamation do not merely admit or recognize but firmly accept it as God's own words, surrendering themselves in baptism.Judith 13:13: HOSPITALITY AND RECEPTION “When they heard her voice, they hurried to call the elders of the city. They all ran together, both small and great, because it seemed unbelievable to them that she had returned, and they opened the gate and welcomed [ἀπεδέξαντο (apedexanto), aorist middle indicative] them.”1 Maccabees 9:71: ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF TERMS “Thus the sword ceased from Israel. And Jonathan lived at Michmash. And Jonathan began to judge the people, and he accepted [ἀπεδέξατο (apedexato), aorist middle indicative] the situation at that time.”3 Maccabees 3:17: ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF PETITION “When the people heard this, they raised an outcry to heaven, so that those who were nearby and those far away were astonished at the sound of their united cry. But the king, considering their unity, accepted [ἀπεδέξατο (apedexato), aorist middle indicative] their plea.”Tobit 7:16: ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF UNDERSTANDING “And Raguel called his wife Edna, and said to her, ‘Sister, prepare the other room and bring her there.' She went and spread the bed with her for her, as he had said, and she brought her there. And she understood [ἀπεδέξατο (apedexato), aorist middle indicative] the matter.”2 Maccabees 3:9: FORMAL ADMISSION OF INFORMATION “So he told him about the great amount of money under the king's control, and that Apollonius the governor had informed him. And Heliodorus went to the king and admitted [ἀπεδέξατο (apedexato), aorist middle indicative] what had been told.”2 Maccabees 3:35: RECOGNITION OF DIVINE SOVEREIGNTY “And Heliodorus offered sacrifice to the Lord and made very great vows to Him who had granted him life, and he acknowledged [ἀπεδέξατο (apedexato), aorist middle indicative] the Lord of all.”2 Maccabees 4:22: TRIBAL WELCOME WITH HONOR “And when he came into Joppa, he was welcomed [ἀπεδέχθη (apedechthē), aorist passive indicative] magnificently by the people.”3 Maccabees 5:27: JOYFUL ACCEPTANCE OF REPORT “But the Jews, as they heard this and perceived the invincible protection, praised the Lord, who had so miraculously manifested Himself, and they received [ἀπεδέξαντο (apedexanto), aorist middle indicative] the report with joy.”4 Maccabees 3:20: COGNITIVE ACKNOWLEDGEMENT “For since reason rules over the emotions, it is evident that the emotions are not destroyed. For if the emotions had been destroyed, it would not be possible for reason to recognize [ἀποδέχεσθαι (apodechesthai), present middle infinitive] any of them.”Acts 2:41: SUBMISSION TO THE WORD “So then, those who had received [ἀποδεξάμενοι (apodexamenoi), aorist middle participle] his word were baptized; and that day there were added about three thousand souls.”Acts 15:4: TRIBAL WELCOME AND ACCEPTANCE OF REPORT “When they arrived in Jerusalem, they were welcomed [ἀπεδέχθησαν (apedechthēsan), aorist passive indicative] by the church and the apostles and the elders, and they reported all that God had done with them.”Acts 18:27: FRATERNAL WELCOME TIED TO MISSION “And when he wanted to go across to Achaia, the brothers encouraged him and wrote to the disciples to welcome [ἀποδέξασθαι (apodexasthai), aorist middle infinitive] him; and when he had arrived, he greatly helped those who had believed through grace.”Acts 21:17: TRIBAL WELCOME “After we arrived in Jerusalem, the brothers welcomed [ἀπεδέξαντο (apedexanto), aorist middle indicative] us gladly.”Acts 24:3: “We acknowledge [ἀποδεχόμεθα (apodechometha), present middle indicative] this in every way and everywhere, most excellent Felix, with all thankfulness.” FORMAL ADMISSION OF INFORMATIONActs 28:30: “Now Paul stayed two full years in his own rented quarters and was welcoming [ἀπεδέχετο (apedecheto), imperfect middle indicative] all who came to him.” FRATERNAL WELCOME TIED TO MISSION1 Thessalonians 2:13: DECISIVE SUBMISSION TO DIVINE WORD“For this reason we also constantly thank God that when you received [παραλαβόντες (paralabontes), aorist active participle] the word of God which you heard from us, you accepted [ἀποδεξάμενοι (apodexamenoi), aorist middle participle] it not as the word of men, but as what it really is, the word of God, which also is at work in you who believe.”προσδοκάω (prosdokaō)Expect, wait for, look for. From δοκάω (think, suppose) with the prefix πρός- (towards). To look toward in expectation.ע־ר־ף (ʿayin–resh–fe) / ع-ر-ف (ʿayn–rāʾ–fāʾ)“May my teaching drip [יַעֲרֹף (yaʿarof)] as the ra...

Steve and Jason sit down to interview Matt Papa, a Christian hymn-minded songwriter who collaborates with the Gettys and has several hymns that are sung church wide. Matt will be in person for a concert at our Church in Joppa, Maryland on Oct. 7th, tickets can be purchased here: https://www.shazam.com/event/f560cc31-4990-497e-894f-77881b421471

Jonah and the whale.Jonah and the big fish.Jonah 1:1-3 The word of the Lord came to Jonah son of Amittai: “Go to the greatcity of Nineveh and preach against it, because its wickedness has come up beforeme.” But Jonah ran away from the Lord and headed for Tarshish. He went downto Joppa, where he found a ship bound for that port. After paying the fare, he wentaboard and sailed for Tarshish to flee from the Lord.Jonah 1:1 The word of the Lord came to Jonah…Hebrews 4:12-13 MSG His powerful Word is sharp as a surgeon's scalpel, cuttingthrough everything, whether doubt or defense, laying us open to listen and obey.Nothing and no one can resist God's Word. We can't get away from it—no matterwhat.1. God's WORD doesn't always align with my COMFORT.Jonah 1:2 GO to the great city of Nineveh and preach…GO—move in a DIFFERENT DIRECTION from where you are.Our COMFORT is often the enemy of our PROGRESS.Gath-Hepher: “winepress on the watering hole”2. There is always a boat ready to take you in the WRONG DIRECTION.Jonah 1:3 But Jonah ran away from the Lord and headed for Tarshish. He wentdown to Joppa, where he found a ship bound for that port. After paying the fare,he went aboard and sailed for Tarshish to flee from the Lord.Jonah 1:5 But Jonah had gone below deck, where he lay down and fell into a deepsleep.Jonah 1:4 Then the Lord sent a great wind on the sea, and such a violent stormarose that the ship threatened to break up.3. When you are RUNNING, God will often allow a STORM to WAKE youup.Where are you running from God?

We were zipping down the Interstate, and we saw this long cloud of thick blue smoke ahead of us. When we got close, we saw that it was belching out of the smokestack of this big old semi, and the smoke was so heavy you could hardly see as you passed it. In fact, it was a very good time to hold your breath. Now, as we passed him, I looked through the smoke into the cab, and I saw two men inside and they were just kind of laughing and they seemed oblivious to the smoke and the smell that they were spreading down the Interstate. Now, I noticed after we passed that semi and that mountain of smoke, that there were little black spots all over our windshield. Now, I instinctively reached for my windshield wipers to get rid of the spots, and it was then that I saw the driver ahead of us who had turned his wipers on. His entire windshield was smeared with this thick, black substance. Whew! Glad I didn't turn my wipers on. We stopped for lunch a few minutes later and when I got out I found spots of oil all over our vehicle. After we finished eating we got some great exercise cleaning off the oil. Now, that driver probably thought the smoke was just his problem, but it was actually a problem for everyone who got close to it. I'm Ron Hutchcraft and I want to have A Word With You today about "Leaving an Ugly Trail." Our word for today from the Word of God, we're in the Old Testament book of Jonah, and you know the Lord gave him directions to go to Nineveh. Jonah 1:3 says, "But Jonah ran away from the Lord." Which is kind of a humorous thought in itself (running away from the Lord, right?) but it says "He went down to Joppa where he found a ship and paid the fare, went aboard and sailed for Tarshish to flee from the Lord. Then the Lord sent a great wind on the sea, and such a violent storm arose that the ship threatened to break up." Well, of course, now the captain goes below, wakes up Jonah, and then it says, "The sailors said to each other, 'Come with us. Cast lots to find out who is responsible for this calamity.' They cast lots and the lot fell on Jonah. So they asked him, 'Tell us, who is responsible for making all this trouble? What did you do? Where do you come from? What is your country?' He said, 'I am a Hebrew and I worship the Lord, the God of heaven, who made the sea and the land.'" Now, Jonah has disobeyed God, and if he thinks like most of us 21st-century types, he's saying, "Hey, I might be sinning, but it's not hurting anybody. Right?" Oh, I suppose the driver of the smoky semi could have said, "I've got a problem, but it's not hurting anyone else." Well, he was wrong, and so was Jonah. Everyone around him was suffering; not because of their sin, but because of his. Modern morality says, "You know, it's okay if it doesn't hurt anybody." You know what? There's no such thing. I've hugged the parents who are sobbing over their son's life or their daughter's life. And while they're doing their thing, it could be breaking the heart of the people who love that person the most. I've been with the son or daughter who is waiting and watching while their parent walks away from the very truth they were taught by that parent, and they're crushed. No man is an island. When you have premarital sex you're hurting your future lifetime partner and their future lifetime partner. Your choices affect the family name, and they sure affect your Lord. They affect the reputation of your family. And while you're on your detour, unbelievers are deciding about Jesus based on how you are living and probably saying, "I don't need Him." See, sin twists everything around. You can't sin in a vacuum. You have an ugly trail of wounded people left behind when you're living outside of Christ's boundaries. There's pollution splattering everywhere close to you when you depart from the Word of God. The two you're hurting the most? You and a Savior who loves you very much, Who died so you don't have to do that sin. Isn't it time to end the hurt? Do it God's way. That pollution has already left a long enough trail.

Jonah 1English Standard Version1 Now the word of the Lord came to Jonah the son of Amittai, saying, 2 “Arise, go to Nineveh, that great city, and call out against it, for their evil has come up before me.” 3 But Jonah rose to flee to Tarshish from the presence of the Lord. He went down to Joppa and found a ship going to Tarshish. So he paid the fare and went down into it, to go with them to Tarshish, away from the presence of the Lord.4 But the Lord hurled a great wind upon the sea, and there was a mighty tempest on the sea, so that the ship threatened to break up. 5 Then the mariners were afraid, and each cried out to his god. And they hurled the cargo that was in the ship into the sea to lighten it for them. But Jonah had gone down into the inner part of the ship and had lain down and was fast asleep. 6 So the captain came and said to him, “What do you mean, you sleeper? Arise, call out to your god! Perhaps the god will give a thought to us, that we may not perish.”7 And they said to one another, “Come, let us cast lots, that we may know on whose account this evil has come upon us.” So they cast lots, and the lot fell on Jonah. 8 Then they said to him, “Tell us on whose account this evil has come upon us. What is your occupation? And where do you come from? What is your country? And of what people are you?” 9 And he said to them, “I am a Hebrew, and I fear the Lord, the God of heaven, who made the sea and the dry land.” 10 Then the men were exceedingly afraid and said to him, “What is this that you have done!” For the men knew that he was fleeing from the presence of the Lord, because he had told them.11 Then they said to him, “What shall we do to you, that the sea may quiet down for us?” For the sea grew more and more tempestuous. 12 He said to them, “Pick me up and hurl me into the sea; then the sea will quiet down for you, for I know it is because of me that this great tempest has come upon you.” 13 Nevertheless, the men rowed hard to get back to dry land, but they could not, for the sea grew more and more tempestuous against them. 14 Therefore they called out to the Lord, “O Lord, let us not perish for this man's life, and lay not on us innocent blood, for you, O Lord, have done as it pleased you.” 15 So they picked up Jonah and hurled him into the sea, and the sea ceased from its raging. 16 Then the men feared the Lord exceedingly, and they offered a sacrifice to the Lord and made vows.17  And the Lord appointed a great fish to swallow up Jonah. And Jonah was in the belly of the fish three days and three nights.

Listen along as Mike Gaston continues our series through Acts. Notes//Quotes: Acts 10:1-48 - Jack reading   Slides   Slide 1   Big Idea   Christ's plan includes not just us, but all the nations of the world. How will we respond?   Slide 2   (Map of Israel showing Joppa and Caesarea, to be emailed separately)   Slide 3   “It is more likely, therefore, that the point is that the Lord's command frees Peter from any scruples about going to a Gentile home and eating whatever might be set before him. It would be a short step from recognizing that Gentile food was clean to realizing that Gentiles themselves were ‘clean' also.” Tyndale Commentary, I. Howard Marshall   Slide 4   “The conversion of Cornelius was a landmark in the history of the gospel's advance from its strictly Jewish beginnings to its penetration of the Roman Empire. True, it did not settle any of the issues relating to Jewish-Gentile relations within the church, nor did Jewish believers take it as a precedent for direct outreach to Gentiles. But it did show that the sovereign God was not confined to the traditional forms of Judaism and that He could bring a Gentile directly into relationship with himself through Jesus Christ and apart from any prior commitment to distinctive Jewish beliefs or lifestyle.” Richard N. Longenecker   Slide 5   John 10:16 And I have other sheep that are not of this fold. I must bring them also, and they will listen to my voice. So there will be one flock, one shepherd.   Slide 6   Matthew 28:18-20 And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.  Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”   Slide 7   Three possible responses to God's plan for the nations Hostility Indifference Enthusiasm   Slide 8   Mike's Definition of Missions:   God is using the preaching of the gospel to turn rebellious sinners around the world into redeemed worshippers of His Son Jesus Christ …   … and WE GET TO HELP!   Slide 9   “Lord, where do I fit?”  

Jonah 1:1 NASB 1 The word of the Lord came to Jonah the son of Amittai…1. Jonah's NameEphesians 5:8 NIV 8 For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light.Matthew 5:13-16 NIV 13 “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. 14 You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”Colossians 3:12 NIV 12 Therefore, as God's chosen people holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.Jonah 1:1-2 NASB 1 The word of the Lord came to Jonah the son of Amittai saying, 2 “Arise, go to Nineveh the great city and cry against it, for their wickedness has come up before Me.”1. Jonah's Name2. Jonah's NinevehJonah 1:3-16 NIV 3 But Jonah rose up to flee to Tarshish from the presence of the Lord. So he went down to Joppa, found a ship which was going to Tarshish, paid the fare and went down into it to go with them to Tarshish from the presence of the Lord. 4 The Lord hurled a great wind on the sea and there was a great storm on the sea so that the ship was about to break up. 5 Then the sailors became afraid and every man cried to his god, and they threw the cargo which was in the ship into the sea to lighten it for them. But Jonah had gone below into the hold of the ship, laid down and fallen sound asleep. 6 So the captain approached him and said, “How is it that you are sleeping? Get up, call on your god. Perhaps your god will be concerned about us so that we will not perish.” 7 Each man said to his mate, “Come, let us cast lots so we may learn on whose account this calamity has struck us.” So they cast lots and the lot fell on Jonah. 8 Then they said to him, “Tell us, now! On whose account has this calamity struck us? What is your occupation? And where do you come from? What is your country? From what people are you?” 9 He said to them, “I am a Hebrew, and I fear the Lord God of heaven who made the sea and the dry land.”10 Then the men became extremely frightened and they said to him, “How could you do this?” For the men knew that he was fleeing from the presence of the Lord, because he had told them. 11 So they said to him, “What should we do to you that the sea may become calm for us?”—for the sea was becoming increasingly stormy. 12 He said to them, “Pick me up and throw me into the sea. Then the sea will become calm for you, for I know that on account of me this great storm has come upon you.” 13 However, the men rowed desperately to return to land but they could not, for the sea was becoming even stormier against them. 14 Then they called on the Lord and said, “We earnestly pray, O Lord, do not let us perish on account of this man's life and do not put innocent blood on us; for You, O Lord, have done as You have pleased.” 15 So they picked up Jonah, threw him into the sea, and the sea stopped its raging. 16 Then the men feared the Lord greatly, and they offered a sacrifice to the Lord and made vows.1. Jonah's Name2. Jonah's Ninevah3. Jonah's NeglectJonah 1:14-16 NASB 14 Then they called on the Lord and said, “We earnestly pray, O Lord, do not let us perish on account of this man's life and do not put innocent blood on us; for You, O Lord, have done as You have pleased.” 15 So they picked up Jonah, threw him into the sea, and the sea stopped its raging. 16 Then the men feared the Lord greatly, and they offered a sacrifice to the Lord and made vows.1. Jonah's Name2. Jonah's Ninevah3. Jonah's Neglect

God's Plans Are Wrecking MineText: Jonah 1:1–17Big Idea: When you run from God, you don't just delay your purpose—you invite a storm. But even then, His grace finds you.I. The Setup: A Clear Command, a Defiant RunGod calls Jonah to go to Nineveh, but Jonah heads to Tarshish—the opposite direction.This is not confusion. It's defiance.“If you want to run from God, the devil will always offer you a ride.”Jonah rationalizes sin, something we all do: our minds make excuses for what our spirits know is wrong.II. Downward Spiral of DisobedienceJonah's journey is literally and spiritually descending:He goes down to Joppa (1:3)Down into the ship (1:5)Down into the sea (2:3)Sin always takes us downward.Delayed obedience is still disobedience. True maturity shortens the gap between hearing God's Word and obeying it.III. Storms Have a PurposeGod sends a storm—not to destroy Jonah, but to redirect him.While the sailors panic, Jonah sleeps—numbed by rebellion.Jonah confesses who he is (1:9), but he still refuses to repent.Eventually, he tells the crew to throw him overboard. Only then does the sea grow calm.IV. The Wake-Up Call: Sin Affects OthersJonah's disobedience nearly kills an entire boat of people.Our rebellion never just affects us—it impacts everyone around us.But even in this moment, God is working. The sailors end up worshiping the true God.V. God's Mercy in a Fish-Shaped PackageJonah doesn't drown. God provides a fish.This wasn't punishment—it was preservation.Sometimes, what feels like rock bottom is actually the start of mercy.

Witness the awe-inspiring miracle of Dorcas' resurrection, as Peter, through the power of Jesus, brings life and hope back to a mourning community.In this episode, the Apostle Peter performs a miraculous healing, raising Dorcas from the dead and restoring hope to the grieving believers in Joppa. Her resurrection becomes a powerful testimony of God's love and power, strengthening the faith of those who witnessed it.Today's Bible verse is Deuteronomy 10:21, from the King James Version.Download the Pray.com app for more Christian content including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.Pray.com is the digital destination for faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we conclude season 16 by remembering with gratitude all the things God has done and is doing in our lives. We reflect on the importance of allowing our hearts to be drawn into beauty in the midst of both joy and sorrow. We also talk about maturity vs self reliance, allowing ourselves to be led by the Holy Spirit, and the relationship between trust and receptivity. Thank you dear friends for journeying with us this season! You will be in our prayers this summer and we are excited about what's in store this Fall!   Heather's One Thing - All to Bless You and Low (Live) by Kory Miller  Sister Miriam's One Thing - Magdala Grove Michelle's One Thing - I Believe in Love: A Personal Retreat Based on the Teaching of St. Thérèse of Lisieux by Fr. Jean Delaby   Journal Questions: Pause and take a moment to notice the surrounding beauty. What do I notice? How might the Lord be speaking to me through this beauty? Am I perplexed by the mystery of how God is working in my life? How might He be working all things for good in this season? How do I keep my union with the Lord? What is coming against that right now? In my suffering and darkness, where do I turn my face? Am I allowing myself to be led or am I trying to control? What is the Lord inviting me to do this summer?   Discussion Questions: Are you in a season where it is difficult to be grateful? Why or why not? In the midst of regular life, what is taking you away from union with God? How have you encountered the love of God in your life? God is always doing something new. How can you breathe in new hope? What are you looking forward to this summer?    Quote to Ponder: “To limit your desires and your hopes is to misunderstand God's infinite goodness!” (St. Therese of Lisieux) Scripture for Lectio: “Remember the wonders he has done, his miracles…” (Psalm 105:5)   Sponsor - House of Joppa: We're proud to be sponsored by House of Joppa, a family-owned Catholic shop where modern design meets timeless tradition. From stunning Catholic jewelry to sacred art and décor, everything they offer is crafted to reflect the beauty of our faith. Explore their full collection at houseofjoppa.com   Timestamps:  00:00 - House of Joppa 01:00 - Intro 01:51 - Welcome 04:18 - What's Been on Our Minds 09:35 - Union with God 10:43 - Year of Hope 13:32 - Abiding  17:30 - Maturing of Love 19:20 - Turning to God 22:04 - Favorite Moments from Season 16 26:31 - What We are Looking Forward to this Summer 33:20 - Final Thoughts 34:59 - One Things