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The story of the rich young ruler challenges many of our assumptions about how to have a relationship with God. How does this story reveal the way of Jesus?
We keep trying to “improve” Christianity by stapling our cultural values onto Jesus and calling it wisdom. That's how the prosperity gospel turns blessing into comfort, how progressive Christianity can shrink the kingdom into a political mirror, and how conservative Christianity can blend holiness with power, nationalism, and scripts that look more like capitalism and individualism than the Sermon on the Mount.We walk through those distortions without pretending the underlying desires are all bad. God does want to bless. Jesus does liberate. God does call us to holiness. The question is whether we're arriving there by the way of King Jesus or by the shortcuts of our age. The turning point is the wisdom of the cross: when Jesus defines blessing, it includes betrayal, scarcity, and suffering held inside God's faithfulness. That wisdom “harbors no additions” because it is revelation, not projection. It's God showing us what God is like in Christ.From 1 Corinthians 2 we talk about the Holy Spirit as God's gift, freely given, granting access to the mind of Christ. Not as spiritual trivia or a way to win arguments, but as practical wisdom for Christian living, spiritual formation, and decision-making under pressure. We also face the painful question of why some hearts stay closed and what our role really is. The answer is both humbling and freeing: we are witnesses, not saviors, judges, or attorneys. We testify with words and with lives shaped by love, and we pray, “Come, Holy Spirit.”If you've been stuck in performance pressure, shame, or anxiety loops, listen through the end and try the simple practice we name: “I have the mind of Christ.” If this helped you, subscribe, share it with a friend, and leave a review so more people can find it.Support the show
Send us Fan MailA real letter used to feel like an event. You waited for it, you opened it carefully, and you could almost feel the person behind the words. We start there with a story about the last generation before phones and what it was like to get a handwritten note that felt unforgettable, then we ask a bigger question: what if the Bible is that kind of letter, only eternal?We trace the idea through the New Testament letters and land in Thessalonica, using Acts 17 to set the scene. Paul and his team bring the gospel into a city that pushes back hard, and a believer named Jason takes heat simply for offering a home. That moment reframes the church as a people who can “turn the world upside down” not through hype, but through conviction, hospitality, and loyalty to King Jesus. From there we open 1 Thessalonians and sit with Paul's gratitude for a community marked by faith, love, and hope, all empowered by the Holy Spirit rather than empty words.We also talk about the kind of leadership that actually forms disciples: bold in conflict, gentle in care, and committed to pleasing God over people. Paul describes nurturing tenderness like a mother and guiding strength like a father, which challenges us to grow up in our faith without becoming harsh or performative. The message ends with a clear invitation to follow Jesus, receive forgiveness through the cross and resurrection, and step into a life shaped by God's presence and God's people.If this encouraged you, share it with a friend who needs courage, subscribe so you don't miss what's next, and leave a review that helps more people find this Bible teaching and discipleship conversation.Cornerstonehttps://www.cornerstoneaz.org/Follow Jesushttps://www.cornerstoneaz.org/follow-...Life Groups https://www.cornerstoneaz.org/life-gr...Giving https://cornerstoneaz.churchcenter.co...Church Center App - Download then add Cornerstone Christian Center in Avondale, AZiOShttps://itunes.apple.com/us/app/my-ch...Android https://play.google.com/store/apps/de...----Instagram cornerstoneaz Facebook cornerstoneaz.org Twitter cornerstoneaz.org
Have you ever wondered what your place in this world is?Of course, you have. That's the human experience. Alone with our thoughts, we wonder who we even are, and what we're meant to do. It's a mysterious journey, but the fog lifts and the way becomes clear when we get to know King Jesus.Ephesians 2:10 says, “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.”You were made for something! You were made to do things for your Lord. The truly beautiful thing is, God created a custom plan just for you. If you aren't a famous athlete like Tim Tebow, you can still share your faith in wonderful ways. Ways that are life-changing for those you encounter.Think of that verse again. God made you for a purpose! Created to have the mind of Christ in making this world a better place and making disciples for Him. And God prepared it all long, long ago. You are His child. That's who you are.Let's pray.Lord, when we begin to understand even a little bit of your love for us, it transforms us, and it renews our minds and hearts. Thank you so much for that! In Jesus' name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.
Preached by Pastor Matthew Tilley on Sunday, June 7, 2026, at North Beaver Baptist Church (West Jefferson, NC). Part of the "Jesus: Rescuer" sermon series on the first three chapters of Mark's Gospel.
Preached by Pastor Matthew Tilley on Sunday, June 7, 2026, at North Beaver Baptist Church (West Jefferson, NC). Part of the "Jesus: Rescuer" sermon series on the first three chapters of Mark's Gospel.
The story of the mount of transfiguration points the way to real relationship with God. What does it teach us?
Matthew 23:1-12
Pastor Glenn will begin a new four-part mini-series titled Revelation—A Preview of The End of History. The purpose of this series is to prepare us for a future, verse-by-verse exposition of the Book of Revelation starting this fall by establishing a biblical theology of prophecy and the end times. The goal is not merely to satisfy curiosity about the future, but to cultivate faithful, hopeful, discerning, and worshipful disciples of Jesus Christ. More and more, thoughtful Christians and even non-Christians are asking, “Are we in what the Bible calls the end times?” Current geopolitical gyrations and cultural ideologies are creating a sense that human history may be reaching a breaking point. We hope you will join us as we look to Scripture for answers, and for the encouragement that King Jesus is on the throne and coming back soon!
Dale South brings a message from 2 Samuel 24:18-25 as we continue to learn how the life of King David leads us to the life of King Jesus.Thank you for joining us! To learn more, please visit: https://wcchapel.org/fridaymensbreakfast
Since the rebellion in the Garden, the human family has been afflicted by the sins of fear and pride. In rejecting what it means to be created in God's image, we enter the AI age with fears of uncertainty and mortality, and along with the desire to be like gods we find ourselves on a dangerous precipice. We must respond by rejecting the false promises of technology and its dehumanization. The majesty of man is restored when we model our lives on King Jesus and put his teaching into practice.
In this message from our Summer Stories series, Pastor Robey explores Jesus' parables of the mustard seed and the leaven in Matthew 13:31–33. These simple illustrations reveal a powerful truth about the Kingdom of God: it often begins in small, overlooked ways but grows to have an extraordinary impact. Discover what it means to live under the reign of King Jesus, why believers should reject pessimism and live with expectancy, and how God can use everyday acts of faith to bring transformation to homes, workplaces, schools, and entire cities. Whether you're looking for encouragement, perspective, or a deeper understanding of Jesus' teaching, this message will challenge you to recognize and participate in the work God is doing all around you.
What does it really mean to be part of the body of Christ? In this week's message, we dive into 1 Corinthians 12:12-27 to explore how the church is a living organism, not just an organization. Even though we are all unique and see the world differently, we are united in our mission under King Jesus. In this message, we unpack five essential truths about the church: We are one body: Though we have many parts, Jesus is the head. Every part is meant to serve: Just like the physical body, we are called to bring life to the whole, not just consume for ourselves. No one is self-sufficient or superior: We desperately need each other to function, and no one's gifts are more important than another's. No one is unnecessary or inferior: Whether you are on a stage or quietly holding doors, your role is absolutely vital to the kingdom. The body is only as healthy as its parts: We get stronger together when every person steps up to find their purpose and serve.
Jesus is not always the king we want, but he is the king we need. How do we learn to see Jesus as he truly is?
When Jesus came into this world, he established an eternal community called "the kingdom of God." Anyone in heaven or on earth who has submitted to King Jesus is a part of that kingdom, and the values & priorities of his kingdom are drastically different from those found in this world. #MoRealJesus
Matthew 22:41-46
What does the Bible really say about the antichrist? In this message through Daniel, Revelation, and 2 Thessalonians, we examine the rise of the antichrist, the spirit of deception already active in our world, and why biblical prophecy was given not to create panic or obsession, but endurance and faithfulness to Jesus Christ — the true King who will reign forever.
Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. Get your Hosea Scripture Journal now. What if the thing God removes is the thing you trust most? Listen to our text today, and yes, it is the same one from yesterday, Hosea 3:4-5: "For the children of Israel shall dwell many days without king or prince, without sacrifice or pillar, without ephod or household gods. Afterward the children of Israel shall return and seek the LORD their God, and David their king, and they shall come in fear to the LORD and to his goodness in the latter days." — Hosea 3:4-5 In this text, God tells Israel that they will live for a time without a king, without leadership, without sacrifices, and without idols. Everything is stripped away—not only what was clearly wrong, but even what once seemed right. This is what makes the moment so unsettling. Why would God do this? Because everything had become compromised. Their leadership was unstable, their worship had become empty, and their rituals had lost their meaning. What once pointed them to God had slowly replaced their dependence on him. So God removes the entire system. He leaves them without anything to lean on—no structure, no substitute, no distraction. Only he remains. And that is exactly the point. It is possible to build a life around God and still not actually depend on God. It is possible to trust routines, systems, and familiarity while quietly drifting from a real relationship with him. So sometimes, God clears the stage—not to abandon his people, but to bring them back. It says: "Afterward… they shall return." That is always the goal. Then it reads... "They shall seek the LORD… and David their king." David had been dead for nearly 200 years when Hosea wrote this. This is not a call to look backward. It is a promise pointing forward—to a future king from David's line who would succeed where every other leader failed. A king who would not lead people away from God, but back to him. This is a clear portrayal of King Jesus. God says he will remove everything his people trust until they are ready to trust the right King. And when they return, they will come with both reverence and relief—"in fear and to his goodness." That captures what it means to really come back to God. So consider your own life today. If God began removing the things you rely on—your sense of stability, your routines, your control—would you turn toward him? Or have you learned how to live on what he provides without really seeking him? Because if you won't turn in comfort, he may use discomfort to get your attention. Not to push you away, but to bring you back. DO THIS: Ask God honestly if there is anything in your life you are relying on more than him, and surrender that area to him today. ASK THIS: What are you currently relying on that may be replacing your dependence on God? How has comfort made your faith passive? What would it look like for you to actively seek Jesus as your King today? PRAY THIS: Father, remove anything in my life that keeps me from fully depending on you. Help me return to you and follow Jesus as my true King. Amen. PLAY THIS: "Clear The Stage"
Seminary Update and Book Reviews: Women in Leadership, Political Exile, and Healing or Harm from Misused Scripture Diana shares an update on her seminary studies toward a Master of Divinity to become a hospital chaplain. She explains why she has not republished older episodes and then recommends three books: Preston Sprinkle's From Genesis to Junia, which she is midway through and says is readable yet scholarly on what the Bible says about women in leadership, highlighting many biblical women and themes of servant leadership; Sprinkle's Exiles, on Christians' identity as foreigners whose allegiance is to King Jesus rather than partisan politics; and Dr. Steven Tracy's To Heal Or Harm, focused on how misused scripture can wound abuse survivors and how to apply the Bible redemptively. 00:00 Podcast Welcome 00:33 Life Update and School 06:09 Colorado Conference Plug 07:12 Making Time to Read 08:26 Book Review Genesis to Junia 12:18 Women Leaders in Scripture 22:49 Book Review Exiles 28:04 Book Review To Heal Or Harm 34:22 Mending the Soul Mission 36:43 Wrap Up and Resources 38:57 Closing and Subscribe
Look at what happens when you fix your gaze on the eternal perspective from a place of deep, secret surrender. Many believers are caught in a frustrating loop of sin, confession, and continuous spiritual struggle, treating their walk with God as a mechanical list of duties. We look at how God utilizes hiddenness, isolation, and pressure to break our old nature so that our roots can grow deep into King Jesus. Discover what changes when you stop functioning as a mechanical slave to good works and start living out your destiny as a son or daughter of the Living God. The lower the fruit hangs, the easier it is for a hungry world to taste that the Lord is good—are you ready to deepen your roots? Special thanks to Joey Ehlers and Fireplace Church for having me! Click here to go to the official Revival Cry YouTube channel. To see the Revival Cry podcast on another streaming service, click here. To support Revival Cry or find out more information, go to revivalcry.org Email us at info@revivalcry.org Follow @RevivalCryInternational on Facebook and Instagram. Eric's 30-Day Devotional Books: ⏵ “How to Become a Burning Bush”, available in English and Italian ⏵ “Hearing God through His Creation”, available in English, Italian, Spanish, and Japanese
Hunter Ruch brings a message from 2 Samuel 24:1-17 as we continue to learn how the life of King David leads us to the life of King Jesus.Thank you for joining us! To learn more, please visit: https://wcchapel.org/fridaymensbreakfast
In this compelling message, Greg Bryan dives into Matthew 14-20 to explore the "surprising and costly grace" of King Jesus. Opening with a fascinating breakdown of the Hebrew letters in God's personal name (Yahweh)—which symbolically translate to "behold the hand, behold the nail"—the speaker demonstrates how the Old Testament conceals what the New Testament ultimately reveals through Christ. Throughout the study, listeners are challenged to examine their own hearts and develop a "big view of God" that transforms how they live, trust, and forgive.Key Themes & Facets of Grace: Grace Multiplies Our Little: Looking at the feeding of the 5,000, we learn that when we surrender our inadequate resources to Jesus, His authoritative hands multiply them into more than enough. This miracle reveals Him as the true shepherd and the bread of life. Grace Meets Us in the Storm: Through the story of Jesus walking on water, it becomes clear that grace isn't the absence of trouble, but rather the very presence of Christ stepping into our chaos to save us when we sink. Grace Transcends Barriers: Jesus's encounter with the Canaanite woman proves that His mercy shatters ethnic, gender, and religious boundaries, overflowing to anyone who approaches Him with desperate, humble faith. Grace Redeems Our Identity: Following Peter's bold confession at Caesarea Philippi, we see that our truest identity is not found in our past failures, occupations, or cultural labels, but strictly in our union with the Son of the Living God. Grace Calls Us to Die: True discipleship means abandoning self-preservation to take up our cross, as grace redeems us by crucifying our old, self-centered identities and conforming us to Christ. Grace Demands Radical Forgiveness: The parable of the unmerciful servant illustrates that because God has forgiven our unpayable sin debt, we are called to freely and radically forgive others. Grace Offends Human Fairness: Through the parable of the vineyard workers, we are reminded that salvation is a generous gift from God, operating on an entirely different economy than human merit, entitlement, or comparison.Conclusion: The session wraps up with a poignant reflection question for the audience: "What is your view of God right now?" A small view of God leads us to trust ourselves, judge others, and seek comfort, whereas a big view of God empowers us to live boldly by faith, expect trials, and generously extend grace to others.
In the first section of Mark we have wrestled with the question “who is this?”. Now Mark invites his readers to follow the way. What is the way? How do we follow?
Many of us grew up with a gospel centered on getting forgiven and going to heaven—but Jesus preached something far bigger. In week two of The Gospel According to Jesus, we explore how the good news is not just personal salvation, but the announcement that God's Kingdom has arrived through King Jesus. As we walk through Luke 4 and the Lord's Prayer, we're invited to surrender our lives to His reign and become people who bring His restoration into the world around us.Catch the sermon on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or bridge.tv/sermons.To support this ministry and help us continue our God given mission, click here: http://bit.ly/2NZkdrCSupport the show
If you were standing in that ancient courtyard on Friday morning, where would you have been? Would you have stood up for justice for your Savior, or would you have been right there with the crowd, shouting "Crucify Him!"? As we look at John 19:1-24, we see the unrighteous judgment of the Righteous Judge. Jesus is the King of kings, sovereign over all, who will one day judge the living and the dead. Yet here, as the all-sufficient suffering servant, He is handed over to sinful men in an absolute mockery of a trial. Our initial thought is always, "I would never do that. I would never reject King Jesus." But my encouragement to you is this: I think you think too highly of yourself. When we look at the depravity and the sinfulness in our own hearts, we have to ask the hard question: "Are we still headlong in our sin, rejecting His claims, His person, and His majesty today?" What We Cover Today The Sadistic Mockery & The Flogging: We look at the brutal severity of the beating Jesus suffered. We see the cruel humor of the Roman soldiers shoving a crown of thorns into His skull and wrapping Him in a rag of royal purple, completely unaware of before whom they stood. The Greater Sin of Knowing the Truth: Jesus told Pilate that the ones who handed Him over had the greater sin. The principle is clear: To whom much is given, much is required. What does it mean for us if we know the most about Christianity, but stay the furthest from it? Are we in the greatest danger? "We Have No King But Caesar": We look at the chilling pinnacle of Jewish rebellion. These leaders hated Rome, yet to get rid of Jesus, they traded God the Father for a pagan emperor. Who is the real king ruling your heart when no one is looking? Sovereignly in Control: Even when the world looks completely out of hand, God is in control. From the Roman soldiers playing dice and casting lots for His seamless tunic, every single detail was prophesied hundreds of years prior in Psalm 22. None of this caught God by surprise. 04:39 – The Severe Flogging & Sadistic Mockery of the Soldiers 09:00 – Pilate's Failed Attempt to Meet in the Middle 11:51 – A Rattled Governor 15:10 – God's Sovereignty Over Wicked Governments 18:54 – Examining Our Danger 23:00 – The History of Israel's Disastrous Rebellion 26:30 – Golgotha & The Prophecy of the Seamless Tunic 28:15 – Reaching Out to God While He is Near Where Are You Hiding Your Rebellion? Are you like the chief priests, hiding your rebellion in religious hypocrisy? You wear the right clothes, you say the right words, you pray the right prayers, and you give the right amount of money—but it's just religious attire covering up a heart that rejects His authority. Are you like Pilate, just wanting to do whatever makes your life the easiest? Do God's standards and God's rules get in the way of your fun, your desires, and your plans? Are you pursuing your own comfort above the truth? Are you like the Roman soldiers, with an obvious, hardened heart, finding joy in rebelling against the Lord? Hear this warning: Walking in rebellion against God is like walking toward the edge of a cliff with a blindfold on. You know the cliff is out there somewhere, but when you finally find it, it's too late. God is gracious, and His grace is extended to you moment after moment, step after step. But there is a point of no return. Why keep testing the limits of God's patience? Why keep walking blindly toward the edge? Reach out to God while He is near. Call out to Him today while you still have breath in your lungs. He is the Son of God, the Savior of the world, and He gave His life so that your rebellion could be forgiven. Turn to King Jesus today. Connect With Us If you want to walk with us verse-by-verse through the Word of God, please Like, Share, and Subscribe. Our Website: FaithBridgeNH.org Support the Ministry: FaithBridgeNH.org/give Join Us This Sunday: 10:30am • 301 S Main St, Manchester, NH #GospelOfJohn #VerseByVerse #Sermon #ExpositoryPreaching #KingJesus #SovereigntyOfGod #Evangelism #Repentance
Matthew 22:34-40
The birth of the church universal, the Holy Spirit launching the message of Jesus Christ into the world through a newly empowered people. And here we see the bookends of Pentecost and the return of the King Jesus. We live in that time in between, in the church age. As we look to the reading of God's word, if you please join with me in prayer. God, our helper, by your Holy Spirit, we ask you to open our minds
In this sermon from Colossians 1:13–14, we explore the gospel through one of Jesus' central themes: the Kingdom of God.The gospel is not merely about private spirituality or managing personal guilt. It is the announcement that Jesus Christ has conquered sin, death, and the powers of darkness through His death and resurrection — and now reigns as King over all.Together we examine:What it means to live under different “kingdoms”Why Jesus preached the Kingdom so oftenHow the cross and resurrection defeat darknessWhat it means to confess “Jesus is Lord”Why allegiance to Jesus transforms every area of lifeHow the church becomes a counter-cultural kingdom communityThis message invites us to move beyond shallow Christianity into wholehearted allegiance to King Jesus.
Bill Harmon, Assistant Pastor at King of Glory Lutheran Church, brings a message from 2 Samuel 23:8-39 as we continue to learn how the life of King David leads us to the life of King Jesus.Thank you for joining us! To learn more, please visit: https://wcchapel.org/fridaymensbreakfast
What has God entrusted to you? Do you see your life as a list of tasks, or part of a bigger story? And what does Jesus want his followers doing while they wait for his return? In today's episode, Keith shares how Luke 19:11–27 reminds us that we are ambassadors of King Jesus, called to faithfully invest our lives in his kingdom. Read the Bible with us in 2026! This year, we're exploring the Gospels—Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Download your reading plan now. Your support makes TMBT possible. Ten Minute Bible Talks is a crowd-funded project. Join the TMBTeam to reach more people with the Bible. Give now. Like this content? Make sure to leave us a rating and share it so that others can find it, too. Use #asktmbt to connect with us, ask questions, and suggest topics. We'd love to hear from you! To learn more, visit our website and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter @TenMinuteBibleTalks. Don't forget to subscribe to the TMBT Newsletter here. Passage: Luke 19:11–27
Pastor Darrell preaches on the ascended Jesus' ministry to His people: His rule over all things, rule over His church, the pouring out of His Spirit, His provision for His church, His ability to sympathize with us and the offering of His mercy and grace in our time of need, His intercession for us, His saving to the uttermost, His keeping us from stumbling, His presenting us blameless, and doing far more abundantly than all we ask or think, according to the power at work within us. "Let us then - with confidence - draw near to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need." -Hebrews 4:16
Jesus feeds the five thousand with two fish and five loaves. What does this miracle mean? What does it teach us about Jesus and his mission?
In a world of same-day delivery and instant gratification, waiting can feel like an insult. However, James reminds the church that the best things in life, and the things created by God, rarely offer shortcuts. Join Pastor Mitch as he explores how we can live faithfully while waiting for the return of King Jesus. Sermon Notes - https://bible.com/events/49609933 Digital Connect Card - https://redeemertampa.com/connectcard Online Giving - https://redeemertampa.com/give
When Jesus came into this world, he established an eternal community called "the kingdom of God." Anyone in heaven or on earth who has submitted to King Jesus is a part of that kingdom, and the values & priorities of his kingdom are drastically different from those found in this world. #MoRealJesus
In the Old Testament, prophets were equipped by God to illuminate His purpose for the people. One such leader, Zechariah, rallied the Jewish people after their Babylonian exile, using a “hope-ray vision” that was vibrant, revealing, and galvanizing. His powerful visions, bold promises, and vivid prophecies revealed God's heart to protect, restore, and lead His people. And that message still rings true today. Join Horizon at the Equipping Services for a verse-by-verse journey through ZECHARIAH as we see how Christ-followers, like the Israelites before us, can rediscover hope by looking deep into God's work.
Matthew 22:23-33
If we are representatives of King Jesus, is there ever a time in our life where we can separate ourselves from representing Him? Share. Make it a great day in the Love & Lordship of Christ (2 Corinthians 5:20)!
This week marks Ascension Day, May 14![1. Photo by Timo Volz on Unsplash.] So let's rise to that occasion and survey at least seven notions about that place to which Jesus ascended—Heaven. Is it true that Heaven is only “spiritual”? Or that we can't know about Heaven is like, so it's best we not think much about that unchanging, un-earthly or very-earthly dimension where “time shall be no more” and where basically good people go? We'll do our best to bypass modern myth and search the only certain Source. Episode sponsors All that Glows by Lauren Smyth Realm Makers 2026 Conference & Expo Author Update from Novel Marketing The Talismiths: The Secret Saboteur by M. L. Hodder Mission update New at Lorehaven: weekly reviews, recent website upgrades Subscribe free to get updates and join the Lorehaven Guild Concession stand Concession: Randy Alcorn just released a similar article last week. By intention, I didn't read the article, or my own previous material. There's a chance some of my myths (in no special order) overlap. I do credit Alcorn's Heaven (2004) as a formative influence. Yet here I'll attempt to base my reasons straight on Scripture. In the past I've rankled some folks with strange afterlife ideas. Yet in the last 20 years more people have “discovered” New Earth. 1. Heaven is only a “spiritual” place. This usually comes not from teaching, but memes and impressions. Some of us also recall the phrase “spiritual body” (1 Cor. 15:44). Since God is Spirit (John 4:24), isn't this the same kind of spirit? Won't this mean we'll have no body, becoming intangible, ghostly? It's true that God the Father is spirit, without a body. Yet not Jesus. All resurrection ideas are based on His physical/spiritual nature. Yes, Heaven today is for souls separated from bodies (2 Cor. 5). It won't stay that way after the final resurrection Jesus promises. Paul in 1 Cor. 15 defines “spiritual body” as Spirit-powered body. And in 2 Cor. 5 he promises we will be “further clothed,” not naked. 2. It's best not to think about Heaven. This too is not taught in Scripture, except from misquoted verses. 1 Cor. 2:9, “what no eye has seen…” doesn't truly command this. Even if this were about Heaven, it never discourages imagination. But it isn't anyway. It's about “things God has revealed” (verse 10). Scripture's images encourage, not suppress truthful imagination. I'm not sure why else God would inspire such fantastical imagery. With biblical foundation, it's impossible to think “too much” on this. See also: nonsense about “being so heavenly minded…” Bad logic. Being biblically “heavenly minded” helps us love “earthly good.” We avoid that gnostic impulse the slogan was meant to counter. 3. “Time shall be no more” in Heaven. People really do assume this phrase comes from the Bible. It's actually from the hymn “When the Roll is Called Up Yonder.” That's a partial quote from Rev. 10:6 (KJV), warning that time is up. But the phrase got loose and reinforces vague, “spiritoid” images. Maybe we could say time runs different in today's Heaven. Revelation describes events in sequence, as Heaven watches. It references waiting martyrs (Rev. 6:11) and “half an hour” (8:1). In either case, Scripture never implies time/matter has gone evil. A possible rule: we need special proof for “X won't be in Heaven.” Unless the Bible says, don't assume that thing won't last forever. 4. Basically good people go to Heaven. We hear this all the time, in pop culture, funerals, our own doubts. A lot of time this myth isn't specifically taught, only caught. But I did hear a Mormon apologist Jacob Hansen teaching this. In his view, basically only Hitler or “sons of perdition” go to Hell. This notion will result in doctrine and fiction with bad views of evil. Villains will become more “misunderstood” in reality and in stories. Scripture never teaches this. Hell is real. Not all go to Heaven. And if pagans saw Heaven correctly, they wouldn't want to anyway. Imagine an eternity of worshiping King Jesus in everything we do. There can by definition be no perfect world apart from His reign. 5. Today's Heaven looks like Earth. Some years ago, we saw many books about “heaven tourism.” One or two got discredited. One or two got made into movies. Sometimes adults wrote the tell-all. But one little boy glimpsed it(?). Whether or not they had visions, they do reinforce some myths. For example, one book spoke of Heaven in many earthly terms. On principle, I disagree—but not because earthliness is bad. Rather, it's premature. Heaven hasn't yet united with Earth (Rev. 21). Similarly, I hear Christians talking about believers now resurrected. But unless they have their bodies back, resurrection is still future! Heaven is fantastic now. Next comes the even better sequel. 6. We can't know what Heaven is like. Even if God never promised New Earth, Heaven would be great. You get past death and suffering. You get to be with Jesus Christ. You get to reunite with believing family, saints, heroes, and angels. And even as you wait (accelerated time?) there are things to do! Angels in Heaven now worship God all the time. What an epic sight. You might get to witness a higher view of events playing on Earth. And I'm sure we begin getting answers to many of our questions. But also, see Revelation 6. Martyrs are still waiting for what's next. In fact, they know about terrible things and want God's vengeance. They get no “memory wipe,” only the start of greater perspective. 7. Heaven could never unite with Earth. Reckless words about Earth and bodies devalues God's creation. See: “that's just her shell” or “she'll never see him on this Earth.” In fact, God promised she'll get back that body and he'll be back. Nothing in Scripture condemns our body or the material world. It doesn't endorse myths like “the Earth gets forever destroyed.” In fact, 2 Peter 3 speaks in terms of fire that refines our planet. Isaiah 60, 65-66 and Rev. 21 promise a Heaven/Earth reunion. The word “new” doesn't negate those nouns’ ordinary meanings. Heaven is where God dwells. Earth is where we would have dwelt. In this future God and Man all dwell together in one world (Rev. 21)! Com station Top question for listeners What do you long for most in Heaven or the future New Heavens? April wrote this for episode 303 about overseas tales: K-dramas may have romantic clichés just like anime or manga, but they handle them better than many Western media. It's a slow build-up, less sexualized, and focuses on emotions, sacrifice, and getting to know the other person, rather than how quickly you can get two attractive people into bed or make them kiss. Western romance is more about lust these days and that's because it has such a bad reputation as a genre, while the old-fashioned romance of classic books is still considered respectable literature. Next on Fantastical Truth This Thursday, some Christians will observe Ascension Day. That's the lesser-known sequel to Easter Sunday, honoring the time when Jesus Christ returned to Heaven. His disciples recorded His famous last words, including His command: “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.” How does this Great Commission affect our fantastical stories?
As we open Paul's letter to the church at Ephesus it becomes immediately clear that Paul is overflowing with joy in Christ. The source and origin of this joy is Christ Himself, whom Paul notes as the one who is responsible for our salvation. Take note of how often Paul uses the phrase “In Him” or “In Christ”. He goes on to make clear that it is not our works that bring such blessing and righteousness, but free grace through faith. Having received this gift, Paul then encourages the church to live worthy of God's calling. Though we may often fail, we should make it our aim to grow into maturity, submitting to the order of King Jesus. Ephesians 1 – 1:14 . Ephesians 2 – 4:46 . Ephesians 3 – 8:17 . Ephesians 4 – 12:05 . Ephesians 5 – 16:40 . Ephesians 6 – 21:05 . Proverbs 26:1-12 – 24:52 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org
Mark chapter 5 introduces a collision of stories, but underneath the various stories God is telling one bigger story. Learn how this text shows us our deeper need in life and God's deeper answer.
When Jesus came into this world, he established an eternal community called "the kingdom of God." Anyone in heaven or on earth who has submitted to King Jesus is a part of that kingdom, and the values & priorities of his kingdom are drastically different from those found in this world. #MoRealJesus
Pastor Ty Neal Big Idea: In a world full of fakes, there's only one true King: Jesus! Fake Messiah & Fake Kingdoms Revelation 13:1-3Daniel 7:17-18 Revelation 13:2-3John 10:10 The first things any idol takes from its worshipers are their relationships.” Andy Crouch Fake Worship Revelation 13:4 In democratic countries, Satan wants people to look to the state as if it were a messiah. When the government is set forth as the remedy for all ills: economic, social, medical, moral, and The post Fake Gospel: Part I appeared first on Grace Point Church in Las Vegas.
At the final judgment, King Jesus will give us the kingdom and send unbelievers to hell.
Permission To Turn Up The Volume Read Luke 19:28-40 It is more likely that inanimate objects like rocks would cry out to Jesus in worship than for the King of kings to enter his capital city without honor. Jesus encouraged the joyful praise of the people, He didn't suppress it. But how quickly things would change in less than a week, as many of these same people would yell, "Crucify!" Human beings created in God's image make much better worshippers than mere rocks. - Line in the movie Troy by Achilles when fighting Hector. A few other instances of inanimate objects crying out in praise: "Why, mountains, did you skip like rams? Why, hills, like lambs? Tremble, O earth, at the presence of the Lord, at the presence of the God of Jacob. He turned the rock into a pool of water; yes, a spring of water flowed from solid rock." - Psalms 114:6-8 NLT "You will live in joy and peace. The mountains and hills will burst into song, and the trees of the field will clap their hands!" - Isaiah 55:12 NLT "Praise him, sun and moon! Praise him, all you twinkling stars! Praise him, skies above! Praise him, vapors high above the clouds!" - Psalms 148:3-4 NLT "mountains and all hills, fruit trees and all cedars, wild animals and all livestock, small scurrying animals and birds, kings of the earth and all people, rulers and judges of the earth, young men and young women, old men and children. Let them all praise the name of the Lord. For his name is very great; his glory towers over the earth and heaven! He has made his people strong, honoring his faithful ones— the people of Israel who are close to him. Praise the Lord!" - Psalms 148:9-14 NLT As Kingdom Writers, may our written words give others permission to turn up the volume and burst into cheers with the joyful praise that our King Jesus is due. Let's not give rocks any reason to cry out. Our joyful praise and worship now is practice for the future coronation of our King in that same city of Jerusalem
In Acts 17, the early Christians were accused of “turning the world upside down.” Why? Because they preached a message Rome could not tolerate: there is another King—Jesus. This wasn't private spirituality. It was a public declaration that challenged the authority of Caesar himself. That's why mobs formed. That's why rulers panicked. That's why the charge was treason.In this episode, Mike D'Virgilio breaks down what Acts 17 really means—and why the same message still disrupts the world today. The gospel doesn't just change hearts. It confronts kingdoms.Watch all of our videos and subscribe to our channel for the latest content >HereHere
Click here for the DRB Daily Sign Up form! TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: 1 Chronicles 14-15, Psalm 132, Matthew 18 Click HERE to give! One Year Bible Podcast: Join Hunter and Heather Barnes on the Daily Radio Bible, a daily Bible‑in‑a‑year podcast with 20‑minute Scripture readings, Christ‑centered devotion, and guided prayer.This daily Bible reading and devotional invites you to live as a citizen of Jesus' kingdom, reconciled, renewed, and deeply loved. TODAY'S EPISODE: Welcome to the Daily Radio Bible, where we journey together through the pages of Scripture each day. On this first day of May, day 122 of our adventure, Hunter leads us through readings from First Chronicles 14 and 15, Psalm 132, and Matthew 18. Today's episode explores David's victories and preparations for the Ark of the Covenant, the promise God made to David in the Psalms, and Jesus' teaching on forgiveness and humility in the Kingdom of Heaven. We'll reflect on the transforming power of mercy and the invitation to a generous heart—and spend time together in prayer for our families and the world. Join Hunter as we listen, reflect, and begin a new day grounded in God's love and grace. TODAY'S DEVOTION: The King is merciful, but the debtor is not. His debt has been paid in full. Mercy has been shown to him, yet this man will not show mercy to others. Why is he behaving this way? Why is his heart not changed by the mercy of the King? Why is he so desperate to collect from others now that he himself is debt free? Maybe it's because he resents the King. The heart of the flesh never wants to admit its debt. When the debt is pointed out, and even when it is forgiven, the heart doesn't receive it as such. The heart of the flesh is still trying to pay back and earn, to rid itself of the shame by extracting it from others. The debtor wants to free himself of the shame. He is desperate never to be in that position again. But the heart that is ready to receive mercy is evidenced by the desire to offer mercy. It realizes the debt was too great and there was no way to ever repay it. The King has absorbed the loss because of his generous heart, and this is true for you and me too. King Jesus has absorbed the loss, the debt — he took on the insurmountable debt on Calvary's mountain, and he said, "forgiven." We can never collect enough from others to pay back what we owe. We must simply receive from the generous heart of the King. That's it. And when we do, we're changed by his loving, forgiving, and merciful heart. And we can, and we must, offer the same heart of generosity to others, forgiving the debts of others as we ourselves have been forgiven. Today, let's live with that generosity of heart, for we have been forgiven. That's the prayer that I have for my own soul. That's the prayer that I have for my family, for my wife and my daughters and my son. And that's a prayer that I have for you. May it be so. TODAY'S PRAYERS: Lord God Almighty and everlasting father you have brought us in safety to this new day preserve us with your Mighty power that we might not fall into sin or be overcome by adversity. And in all we do, direct us to the fulfilling of your purpose through Jesus Christ Our Lord amen. Oh God you have made of one blood all the peoples of the earth and sent your blessed son to preach peace to those who are far and those who are near. Grant that people everywhere may seek after you, and find you. Bring the nations into your fold, pour out your Spirit on all flesh, and hasten the coming of your kingdom through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen. And now Lord, make me an instrument of your peace. Where there is hatred let me sow love. Where there is injury, pardon. Where there is doubt, faith. Where there is despair, hope. Where there is darkness, light. And where there is sadness, Joy. Oh Lord grant that I might not seek to be consoled as to console. To be understood as to understand, to be loved as to love. For it is in the giving that we receive, in the pardoning that we are pardoned, it is in the dying that we are born unto eternal life. Amen And now as our Lord has taught us we are bold to pray... Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our tresspasses as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not unto temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the Kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. Loving God, we give you thanks for restoring us in your image. And nourishing us with spiritual food, now send us forth as forgiven people, healed and renewed, that we may proclaim your love to the world, and continue in the risen life of Christ. Amen. OUR WEBSITE: www.dailyradiobible.com We are reading through the New Living Translation. 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Mark chapter 3 builds the tension in the story of Jesus and things begin moving to a tipping point. Jesus came to overthrow the powers, but he came for more than that. Through his life, death, and resurrection Jesus redefined power itself.