Podcasts about kingdom of god

What are you looking at? In this message, we are reminded that the Kingdom of God is righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit. Joy is not simply dependent on our circumstances—it is connected to what we believe, what we are filled with, and where we choose to place our focus. As believers, God's presence lives within us, and through the power of the Holy Spirit, we can experience His joy and peace even in the midst of difficult circumstances.The question is: What are you looking at? Through Philippians 4 and the example of the wise men following the star, we are challenged to choose rejoicing, bring our problems to God with thanksgiving, and intentionally meditate on what is true, noble, just, pure, lovely, and praiseworthy. When we keep our eyes on Jesus and trust in what God has promised, we can experience a joy that is not dependent on what we see around us—a joy that is inexpressible and full of glory.MORE...  

ABOUT THIS SERMONIn this message, Pastor James teaches that humility is the pathway to promotion in the kingdom of God, using the story of Mephibosheth from Second Samuel chapter nine as a vivid example. He explains how Mephibosheth received undeserved kindness from King David because of David's covenant with Jonathan, just as believers receive salvation and blessing because of God's covenant with Jesus.Pastor James reminds us that God seeks sons and daughters rather than servants and that He shows us kindness not because of our merit but because of Jesus. Just as Mephibosheth was brought from Lo debar to sit at the king's table, believers are lifted from spiritual poverty to a place of honor in God's family, where the table of Jesus covers every weakness, every failure, and every part of our past.KEY VERSES Matthew 23:12 1 Peter 5:6 2 Samuel 9:7 Ephesians 2:8-9 Ephesians 2:19

Title: Jesus: The Only One Worth Building Your Life OnSpeaker: Nate HoldridgeOverview: Jesus is either the greatest egomaniac who ever lived or the Lord worth building an entire life upon—and in Matthew 12:38–50 he leaves us no third option. When the religious leaders demand a sign from heaven, Pastor Nate Holdridge walks through the threefold answer Jesus gives: a resurrection greater than Jonah's deliverance, a message of grace greater than Jonah's preaching, and a life of wisdom greater than Solomon's splendor. From there, Pastor Nate turns to two implications, one sobering and one beautiful. A life merely cleaned up but left unoccupied is a house waiting for squatters, because in the kingdom of God neutrality does not exist. And a life joined to Christ is a life welcomed into a new family, as Jesus stretches out his hand toward ordinary disciples and calls them mother, brother, and sister.Link to Sermon NotesLink to Discussion Questions

presented by Lauren Stibgen The seasons are changing again, and it is hard to believe that kids have returned to school. I have seen so many social media posts about preparing kids for school from elementary to college. Moms lamenting about lists, waking their kids up on a schedule, and trying to balance this with work and other commitments. Trying to get into a new season of balance.    The reality is our lives are full of these changes no matter the season and no matter the reason. When it comes to seeking balance in work and life, part of our problem is separating the two things to begin with. The fact is all of life is some type of work, whether we are on the job receiving a paycheck, at home with family, or even volunteering.    Change and disruption happen by the moment in our lives. Change can be good and change can be difficult. Change can be expected and unexpected. Sometimes we make choices to change and sometimes we don't.     I think this is why the Bible refers to life as a sojourn, a temporary stay or visit in a place that is not our permanent home. The turmoil this life causes is well characterized in 1 Peter 2:11, Beloved, I urge you as sojourners and exiles to abstain from the passions of the flesh, which wage war against your soul (ESV).    Repeatedly, the Word reminds us this world is not our home. Ephesians 2:19 states, So then you are no longer strangers and sojourners, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God (RSV). We are fellow citizens and saints as members of God's household. But what does this look like, and how can we use this citizenship and membership to bring our lives into a better balance today?   First, let's consider what brings us out of balance with this citizenship we have as believers. What did Paul mean in 1 Peter 2 when he mentions the passions of the flesh waging war against us?   These passions of the flesh can show up in any of our work, at home or on the job, and we need to be aware of how these things are creating the lack of balance we perceive. I would sum up these passions of the flesh with one short word—sin. God's Word has many verses that summarize these sins both in the Old and New Testaments, but the verses in Galatians 5:19-21 specifically mention the flesh.   The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.    All this wages war on our citizenship and is often a root cause for feelings of imbalance in our life whether we are in control or not. There are words from this list that are very present today. I want you to ask:   What rivalries am I a part of? At work, in my family, or in my community?  Where am I causing dissent or division? Am I causing strife at work?  Am I jealous of someone or what they have?  Am I striving for significance in my life?  Have I been angry in the last week to the point of yelling?  What am I thinking about so much that it has become an idol to me?    Again, you may not be the cause of some of these things that wage war on your flesh. For example, maybe someone has caused division at work, and you are an unfortunate recipient of the backlash. Perhaps you have some rivalry in your family that you are not choosing but someone else is. Maybe someone is jealous of your achievements and is acting out because of this.    You see, this is why chasing balance here in this world can never happen, but we can shift our focus on our citizenship and as fellow members of the household of God. This shift can help us feel more in balance when the world seems to work wildly against us—you know, the part about waging war. While the word war seems dramatic, I want you to remember that even Jesus told us that in the world we will have tribulation. (John 16:33)    I love the other side of the promise Jesus has in John 16:33. He promises that in him we will have peace because he has overcome the world! He tells us to rejoice and be glad because our reward is great in heaven. (Matthew 5:12)    Nehemiah 8:10 tells us to not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is our strength! Psalm 16:11 states that God makes known to us the path of life and that in him is the fullness of joy!    Jesus is peace. We can have joy in the presence of the Lord, and with him is the fullness of joy! Personally, when I am worn out from all that life is handing me, I tell my husband or close friends, “I just want peace.” It feels like a beautiful stillness and a place where all the things in this world cannot reach me. It is full of light and joy! The truth is I already have these things because I believe in Jesus Christ and through him, I have a home in heaven with God the Father. This good feeling of joy that is my strength needs my focus and attention. That's why we are commanded repeatedly in Scripture to rejoice in the Lord! (Philippians 3:1 and 4:4, Psalm 118:24).    When I really want this peace and joy, I start by acknowledging where it comes from because I cannot produce it on my own. True joy is found in the filling of the Holy Spirit. In fact, joy is a fruit of the Spirit listed in Galatians 5:22-23. So, to find Jesus and experience his peace, hope, joy, and the rest of the Spirit's fruit, I need to be giving the blessed Trinity my time.    When was the last time you took 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 to heart?    Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. A verse from Philippians 1:12 has been rolling over in my mind for a few months now. Paul writes, Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that what has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel. It really got me to think about my circumstances; both the highs and the lows, the good and the bad. God uses all of this to advance the gospel, but do I allow this?    It is easy to rejoice when things are easy—when we celebrate, receive a promotion or a raise at work, or welcome a new child into our family. But what about a posture of rejoicing even when we are experiencing the opposite?  In James 1:2-3 we are told to Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. This is echoed in Romans 5:2-5:   …through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we boast in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.  Can I take this posture of rejoicing in my suffering, knowing these times will produce endurance, that endurance will produce character, and this character will produce hope?   Like many of you, I work in a high-pressure job. The demands change and, with many personalities, priorities shift. The team can feel the demands of the moment. There are more times than I can count in the last few years when I have heard, “You always stay so hopeful” or, “I don't know how you work through all of this”.    Now, this does not mean I am not real about the trials I face, but what I have found is some of the suffering has produced an endurance that has truly changed my character. I am able to stay consistent, hopeful, and caring for my colleagues. Seeing people how God would see them.    My favorite conversations are the unexpected ones. During a difficult moment one day, I chose to walk away for a few minutes. I needed a refocus on my mindset and take some space to tell the Lord how I needed him to help me with my words and patience. Honestly, I was frustrated and on the verge of tears. After a few minutes, a colleague followed and asked how I deal with things. My reply was that honestly without my faith in God, I truly wouldn't be able to some days. What followed was a beautiful conversation about faith and Jesus that was so unexpected, but I can truly say that what has happened to me has served to advance the gospel.   In this moment, I was not rejoicing, but I was thinking about my flesh—more specifically, how I didn't want my flesh to create a situation of “waging war” through hasty words. And I chose to seek the Lord in prayer. What followed was joy.   Keeping any balance in life as a follower of Jesus Christ is dependent on how focused you are on remembering that your time here on earth is a sojourn. You are on a journey, and you really don't know how long this journey will last. Think about your heavenly home as a member of God's family.   Your ability to find this joy, peace, and hope starts with your practice of abiding. How are you staying firm and steadfast in your relationship with Jesus? Is Jesus the center of your life or just someone you think about on a Sunday during church?   As you evaluate all the aspects of your life, where does Jesus fit into your job, your relationships, your health and wellness, your goals? Do you have a lens of biblical wisdom on all these matters, or does the Word of God sit on a shelf in your house? Do you own a Bible?   How often are you reading God's Word or deeply meditating on it? After all:   For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope (Romans 15:4). Are you in a Bible study or small group? Do you have faith-filled friends who love Jesus like you do?    What about prayer? How much are you talking to God? Do you have other people praying for you on a regular basis?  Abiding. Jesus asks us to abide in him, and he will abide in us. He tells us he is the vine, and we are the branches. In this abiding, we will bear much fruit. (John 5:4-5) Jesus also tells us that apart from him we can do nothing.   If in abiding we can bear much fruit, this means we can bear true joy! Remember, joy is one of the fruits of the Spirit.    How have you assessed your abiding? Be encouraged! If you are reading this message, this means you long for Christian encouragement. While this is not a substitute for any of the other forms of abiding, may it be a reminder to pick up your Bible, find community, and pray!   It is in this place that you learn about your true identity and citizenship. As we all sojourn here, may we encourage one another as we look toward what our hope is ultimately in—the eternal life which God has promised before the beginning of time (Titus 1:2) and the return of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.   I pray today you are filled with a peace that surpasses all understanding, joy that fills you from head to toe, and a hope for things to come! May you be able to say, “What has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel!” 

The kingdom of God is full of people who seem ordinary to the world but are extraordinary to God.Subscribe to daily devotions e-mails: https://wcmin.us/ddsub

In this second session, Roger digs into Luke 5:33-39 and Jesus' three pictures of the groom, the garment, and the wineskin to ask a simple but searching question: are you trying to patch Jesus onto your old life, or are you ready to let Him make you new?

The conversation focused on the heart of missions, exploring what it means to give, serve, and connect in the Kingdom of God. A key theme that emerged was the impact of mutual support, with personal stories from those on the mission field in Belize and insights from pastors rallying behind the cause. The discussion explored practical aspects of accountability, the challenges and victories of missionary life, and the vital importance of investing in souls and building lasting connections. Several points were raised, including fostering revival everywhere—from the home church to international fields—and the blessings that come from generous, united efforts.

Today’s Topics: William Albrecht joins Terry for Friday with the Fathers 1) Gospel – Luke 8:1-3 – Jesus journeyed from one town and village to another, preaching and proclaiming the good news of the Kingdom of God. Accompanying Him were the Twelve and some women who had been cured of evil spirits and infirmities, Mary, called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out, Joanna, the wife of Herod's steward Chuza, Susanna, and many others who provided for them out of their resources. Saints in Heaven, pray for us! Bishop Sheen quote of the day 2, 3, 4) Terry and William discuss Early Father of the Church: Saint Augustine

Original Postdate: September 20, 2024 === Gospel Luke 8:1-3 Jesus journeyed from one town and village to another, preaching and proclaiming the good news of the Kingdom of God. Accompanying him were the Twelve and some women who had been cured of evil spirits and infirmities, Mary, called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out, Joanna, the wife of Herod's steward Chuza, Susanna, and many others who provided for them out of their resources. Reflection In this passage we see the women again, being more receptive than the men to the healing power that Jesus possessed and shared with these women, and their response was gratitude, but it took the form of service. They wanted to be a part of his ministry. They wanted to support it. Take this time to reflect on these thoughts. And now we'll close with a prayer. Closing Prayer It's clear in the scriptures that those who really understood who Jesus is are those who receive some wonderful, free, loving gift. Mercy. Help us to be open to this gift so we can truly be drawn into his ministry and become his followers. And we ask this in Jesus' name, Amen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The David Alliance  TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com Garth Heckman Accuser     Do you inhale or exhale when you putt?      THE ACCUSER - THE RATT      START WITH A WARNING… **If you do not understand how the accuser works you will be used by him and for his purpose without even knowing it.       Here is how it works:  People play the VICTIM - Why me, me oh my, waaa waaa waaa, poor me.     Then they turn into the VILLIAN - They attack people who they feel have it made, had it easy, they think they are arrogant simply because they are successful in some area of life.   They they become Victors and they fight on behalf of the other “VICTIMS”… Jeff Karow “I shudder thinking about the 11 year old little girl who could not get an abortion after being brutally raped.        The worst thing about being deceived is you do not know you are deceived. You operate in the mindset of fact, but its not fact at all. Remember when cigarettes did not cause cancer.          John 8   Jesus returned to the Mount of Olives, 2 but early the next morning he was back again at the Temple. A crowd soon gathered, and he sat down and taught them. 3 As he was speaking, the teachers of religious law and the Pharisees brought a woman who had been caught in the act of adultery. They put her in front of the crowd. 4 “Teacher,” they said to Jesus, “this woman was caught in the act of adultery. 5 The law of Moses says to stone her. What do you say?” 6 They were trying to trap him into saying something they could use against him, but Jesus stooped down and wrote in the dust with his finger. 7 They kept demanding an answer, so he stood up again and said, “All right, but let the one who has never sinned throw the first stone!” 8 Then he stooped down again and wrote in the dust. 9 When the accusers heard this, they slipped away one by one, beginning with the oldest, until only Jesus was left in the middle of the crowd with the woman. 10 Then Jesus stood up again and said to the woman, “Where are your accusers? Didn't even one of them condemn you?” 11 “No, Lord,” she said. And Jesus said, “Neither do I. Go and sin no more.”                   The historical background of this passage—traditionally known as the Pericope Adulterae—is shaped by a clever political trap, a clash between competing legal systems, and a fascinating journey through ancient manuscripts. [1, 2, 3, 4]    peh-RIK-oh-pee - It's from Greek, meaning "a cutting out" or "a selected passage,” Adulterae = ah-dul-TAIR-eye   1. The Legal Trap: Roman Law vs. Jewish Law The religious leaders weren't just asking Jesus for a theological opinion; they were trying to force Him into a dangerous political and legal corner: [3, 5]      The Roman Constraint: Under Roman occupation, the Jewish authorities (the Sanhedrin) were stripped of their power to officially execute anyone. If Jesus agreed that the woman should be stoned to death, He would be encouraging an illegal vigilante execution, breaking Roman law and setting Himself up as a rebel leader against Rome. The Mosaic Constraint: If Jesus said she should go free, He would appear to be breaking the Law of Moses(Leviticus 20:10), which prescribed the death penalty for adultery. This would instantly ruin His credibility as a Rabbi among the Jewish people.    What is really going on here? Judging Jesus response - while they themselves do not hold themselves accountable to the same standard.    *they are not willing to make a call on this - but judging Jesus on his response.   People will call you out - all the while never talk about their own lack of character in the same manner.       Where was the man? The Mosaic law explicitly stated that both the man and the woman caught in adultery were to be put to death.   **Missing information: Accusers will never share the whole story.          OOOOO         2. The Location: The Temple Courts The text explicitly states this encounter took place in the Temple courts (John 8:2).     The sprawling courts of Herod's Temple were not dirt roads or sandy paths; they were grand, public plazas paved with massive, polished stone tiles. If there was loose dust blown onto the stones, Jesus could have been writing in the dirt. However, if He was pressing His finger directly against the smooth, hard flagstones of the Temple floor, a mere human finger would leave no mark. For Him to "engrave" or "write" a visible record there would require a miracle. [7, 8]    3. The Theological Parallel: The Finger of God By highlighting that Jesus wrote "with his finger," John uses a very rare phrasing that immediately points a Jewish reader back to the Old Testament. [7, 9]      In the entire Bible, there are only a few times where God is described as physically writing something. The most famous is Exodus 31:18: "He gave Moses the two tablets of the Testimony, tablets of stone, written with the finger of God."     Jesus was silently saying: "You are trying to lecture Me on the Law? I am the one who carved it in stone in the first place." [1, 10]        OOOOOOO   The phrase "the finger of God" appears only a handful of times in the entire Bible. Each instance represents an irresistible, sovereign display of divine authority and judgment on those who try to play God.  When you connect these other passages to Jesus in the Temple courts, they paint a staggering picture of who He was claiming to be.     1. The Plagues of Egypt (Exodus 8:19)   The Context: During the ten plagues, Pharaoh's court sorcerers try to replicate the miracles Moses performs. When God turns the dust of the earth into swarms of gnats, the magicians fail to copy it. Terrified, they tell Pharaoh: "This is the finger of God."     2. The Ten Commandments (Exodus 31:18 & Deuteronomy 9:10)   The Context: God delivers the moral law to humanity not by dictating it to Moses, but by physically carving it Himself. The text notes the tablets were "written with the finger of God" on stone.   3. The Writing on the Wall (Daniel 5:5)   The Context: King Belshazzar of Babylon throws a blasphemous feast, drinking out of the sacred gold cups stolen from God's Temple. Suddenly, the fingers of a human hand appear and scratch a mysterious message into the plaster of the wall (Mene, Mene, Tekel, Parsin). Daniel interprets the writing: God has weighed the king's deeds, found him wanting, and his kingdom is finished.   4. Jesus Driving Out Demons (Luke 11:20)   The Context: Jesus is accused by His critics of using the power of Satan to cast out demons. He fires back: "But if I drive out demons by the finger of God, then the kingdom of God has come upon you."         This is a great teaching device — pastors use this "voice of the accuser" framing often to expose the enemy's tactics. Here's a biblically-grounded list, treating it as an exposé of strategy rather than actually voicing that persona.   9-16-26 Start here for TDA 10 Ways the Accuser Attacks Faith 1. Rehearsing Your Past He whispers your worst moment on repeat — the affair, the addiction, the abortion, the thing you did at 19 — long after God has already forgiven it, hoping shame will convince you that grace has an expiration date. (Revelation 12:10 — he accuses "day and night") 2. Redefining God's Character "Did God really say...?" He doesn't usually deny God exists — he reframes who God is: distant, disappointed, keeping score. (Genesis 3:1) 3. Comparison He points you at someone else's marriage, ministry, body, or blessing, and lets envy do the rest of the work — convincing you God has been unfair specifically to you. 4. Isolation Disguised as Privacy He convinces you that no one can know the real struggle — that if your small group or spouse knew, they'd walk away. Isolation is where accusation grows unchecked, because it's never tested against truth spoken by someone else. 5. Weaponizing Other Believers' Words He takes a real hurt — something someone at church actually said or did — and repeats it in your mind until it becomes "this is who the church really is" or "this is who God really is." 6. Delayed Answers as Proof of Abandonment When prayer isn't answered on your timeline, he suggests silence means absence — that unanswered prayer is proof you're not really heard, rather than proof you're being asked to trust. (Compare Job's friends' theology vs. God's actual response in Job 38-42) 7. Perfectionism Disguised as Conviction Real conviction from the Spirit is specific and leads to repentance and freedom (2 Corinthians 7:10). Accusation is vague, global, and leads to paralysis — "you'll never get this right," "you're always like this." One brings you to the cross; the other just buries you. 8. Identity Theft He tries to get you to answer to a label — addict, failure, fraud, unworthy — instead of the one Scripture actually gives you: forgiven, adopted, righteous in Christ (Romans 8:1, Ephesians 1:5). Whoever answers the accusation has already accepted the label. 9. Success as a Trapdoor Ironically, he accuses through pride too — convincing gifted, "successful" believers (especially leaders) that their platform, growth, or following is proof of their own righteousness, setting up a fall through self-sufficiency rather than obvious sin. (1 Timothy 3:6 — the danger of being "puffed up with conceit") 10. Truth Without Grace This might be the subtlest one: he loves using real Scripture, real truth, real standards — just stripped of the gospel's grace and hope, so truth becomes crushing weight instead of a path to freedom. (This is actually what he tried on Jesus in the wilderness — quoting real Scripture, Matthew 4:6, but twisting its application.)   THREE  "Dirty Little Secrets" Worth Naming   1-  If there's one unifying tactic underneath all ten, it's this: the accuser rarely needs to invent new material — he just recycles truth without context, timing, or grace. Most of his accusations contain a kernel of something real (a real failure, a real hurt, a real Scripture) — which is exactly why they're so effective. Outright lies are easy to reject. Half-truths delivered at the right moment, with real pain attached, are much harder to resist.     2-  The second secret: he almost never announces himself. Nobody hears an accusing thought and thinks "that was Satan." It just feels like "being honest with myself," or "just being realistic," or "this is just how I am." The accusations feel like your own internal voice of reason — which is precisely what makes Revelation 12:11 significant: believers overcome him "by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony" — meaning the antidote isn't cleverness or willpower, it's actively speaking a different word over yourself than the one he's whispering.       3-  If a thought pushes you toward confession, prayer, and community — that's likely conviction. BUT WITH THAT - ACCUSATIONS MAKE YOU START TO MAKE EXCUSES FOR THAT WHICH YOU ARE BEING ACCUSED OF… THEN HE MAKES YOU FEEL GUILTY FOR THE EXCUSES YOU MADE.      The weapon against accusation isn't willpower or cleverness — it's actively speaking a different word over yourself than the one being whispered. Silence lets the accusation stand unchallenged. Testimony — speaking truth out loud, even just to yourself — interrupts it.       OOOOOOOO   Discernment: Today we have more information and faster information as ever before.  Anyone on social media can be portrayed as an expert, and any information can be presented as fact… But even worse- the absence of clarity creates gossip and presumption that grows into ignorance as fact.        The devil knows your name but calls you by your sin; God knows your sin but calls you by your name     Point 1: The Accuser Has a Title, and a Strategy     Satan's biblical title here isn't "destroyer" or "tempter" — it's accuser. **And Scripture consistently shows this strategy doesn't stay confined to accusing us before God — it plays out horizontally, between people, through gossip, slander, and offense.   Insight: If the enemy's title is "accuser," we should expect his most effective tactic to look like ordinary WORDS     Accusation is not in the power of the words… but the seeds they plant and the doubt they grow. See it's like this: The seeds of innuendo, doubt and insinuation cause the Spiritually immature to feed and water those accusations. **When I was a frosh in HS. The rumor of “ sexually molesting” a child in a cornfield grew into a huge ordeal.  It was started by a teacher's wife - who her and her husband hated me and my family.        Insight: Slander's power has never been the volume of the lie — it's the seed of doubt it plants about someone's character   ITS NOT THE AMOUNT OF ACCUSATIONS - ITS THE SPACE IT CREATES FOR DOUBT = LACK OF FAITH     Why is The Tongue a Fire — it only takes a spark. **a forest fire does not start with a forest fire… it starts with a spark.        So that we don't fall into the role of the accuser we should know this:  Love Covers, Corrupt Talk Corrodes — Two Competing Modes of Speech   Text: Ephesians 4:29-32 PAUL SAYS SPEAK WORDS OF GRACE   1 Peter 4:8 PETER SAYS COVER A BROTHER… HELP BRING THEM INTO HEALING AND WHOLENESS.     ****A truth without grace or healing is still an accusation.     Closing Challenge   Today wether you have been the source of accusation, or the target of it. will you let your mouth be an instrument of the kind of love that actually covers, forgives, and builds up?”   And if I am on the receiving end - Take time to thank God that you are forgiven and accusations only stand as a strong reminder of how great Gods grace is. 

Friends of the Rosary,Today in the Gospel (Luke 8:1-3), we see people — the Twelve and several women disciples — following Jesus with practical love, supporting His mission with what they had. These women had been healed, freed, and restored, and now they support Him by accompanying Him. Grace received becomes generosity offered.“Jesus journeyed from one town and village to another,preaching and proclaiming the good news of the Kingdom of God.Accompanying him were the Twelveand some women who had been cured of evil spirits and infirmities,Mary, called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out,Joanna, the wife of Herod's steward Chuza,Susanna, and many otherswho provided for them out of their resources.”In the first reading (1 Corinthians 15:12-20), we see that Christ's resurrection is the foundation of our hope and faith, but not a symbol, a nice idea, or a comforting belief. St. Paul is very direct: if Christ has not been raised, Christian faith collapses. Because Jesus rose, sin and death do not get the final word. That means our prayers, sacrifices, repentance, and love are not empty. They are joined to a living Lord.“If there is no resurrection of the dead,then neither has Christ been raised.And if Christ has not been raised, then empty too is our preaching;empty, too, your faith.”“If for this life only we have hoped in Christ,we are the most pitiable people of all.”“But now Christ has been raised from the dead,the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep.”Ave Maria!Come, Holy Spirit, come!To Jesus through Mary!Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.Please give us the grace to respond with joy!+ Mikel Amigot w/ María Blanca | RosaryNetwork.com, New YorkEnhance your faith with the new Holy Rosary University app:Apple iOS | New! Android Google Play• September 18, 2026, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET

And it came to pass afterward, that he went throughout every city and village, preaching and showing the glad tidings of the kingdom of God: and the twelve were with him, And certain women, who had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities, Mary called Magdalene, out of whom went seven demons, And Joanna the wife of Chuza Herod’s steward, and Susanna, and many others, who ministered unto him of their substance. And when many people were gathered together, and were come to him out of every city, he spoke by a parable[.]Luke 8:1–4 KJ2000Let’s do a little experiment here. I’m going to read this parable to you without comment. I want you to try to imagine yourself as a person who has never heard it before, had no frame of reference for it, and didn’t have a clue what Jesus was talking about here. The closest you’ve come to this is sowing a few seeds in the ground one time as a kid.Listen to the parable; you have never heard it before. What do you conclude that Jesus was driving at? Let’s begin, then, in Luke chapter 8.

Do you know the true mission of the Church? In Matthew 28:19-20, Jesus commands us to make disciples of all nations. However, many individuals and churches struggle to make true disciples that will establish His kingdom in the next generation. In this series, Pastor Greg Mohr shares how to identify and develop true disciples of Jesus, find godly mentors, and avoid common pitfalls in the discipleship process. Learn how to create a lasting impact and advance the Kingdom of God!

Read OnlineDisciples of Diverse BackgroundsJesus journeyed from one town and village to another, preaching and proclaiming the good news of the Kingdom of God. Accompanying him were the Twelve and some women who had been cured of evil spirits and infirmities, Mary, called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out, Joanna, the wife of Herod's steward Chuza, Susanna, and many others who provided for them out of their resources. Luke 8:1–3Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Susanna, and “many others” faithfully accompanied Jesus and the Twelve. This diverse group of disciples defied conventional expectations. They were not the kind of followers one might ordinarily assemble when launching a mission destined to reach the ends of the earth. Yet God's wisdom is not like our own. He perceives greatness not in social status, talent, or wealth, but in the sincerity, purity, and potential of each heart.The inclusion of women among Jesus' traveling companions is striking within the cultural framework of first-century Judaism. He not only welcomed them into His company but also entrusted them with meaningful participation in His mission. In doing so, He affirmed their dignity and revealed the universal scope of His call.Even more surprising is that some of these women came from questionable or afflicted pasts. Mary Magdalene is named first: “from whom seven demons had gone out.” The number seven signifies completeness, suggesting a full and profound liberation—perhaps from both moral disorder and physical torment. Her healing reveals the immense power of divine mercy. Once bound by darkness, she became a devoted disciple, eventually standing at the foot of the Cross and witnessing the glory of the Resurrection. Her life exemplifies how gratitude for mercy can blossom into unwavering love and enduring fidelity.Joanna, the wife of Chuza, Herod's steward, also deserves attention. Her association with Herod's court—a place marked by corruption—shows that the Gospel can penetrate even into environments of great moral disorder. Susanna and the many other unnamed women round out this community, highlighting a growing circle of female disciples drawn by the love and truth of Christ.These women provided for Jesus and the Twelve “out of their resources.” Their generosity was not only material, it was spiritual. Their stewardship played a vital role in sustaining the mission of Christ. By offering what they had, they became instruments of grace, foreshadowing the ongoing collaboration in the Church between lay and ordained, men and women, rich and poor.This early fellowship of followers models the Church in every age. They came from all walks of life: some devout, others formerly sinful; some wealthy, others of humble means; both men and women; people of high and low estate. Yet they were united in a single purpose: to follow Jesus and serve the Kingdom of God with all that they were.Reflect today on this unexpected company Jesus formed. Many people struggle with a sense of unworthiness or feel inadequate in their spiritual lives. If you have ever felt this way, take heart in the diverse group Christ called. Their varied and imperfect backgrounds reveal the deep and consoling truth that no one is beyond being called by God. Each of us, no matter our past or present, is invited to walk with Him, to offer what we have, and to participate fully in His redemptive mission. Accept this invitation. Join this holy company. And give yourself wholeheartedly to the proclamation of the Kingdom of God. Most merciful Lord, You always look beyond the sin to see the sinner, offering Your boundless mercy to all who turn to You in repentance. Please continue to call me to participate in Your divine mission of building Your Kingdom here on earth, so that I and all whom You touch through me may share in the eternal joy of Your Heavenly Kingdom. Jesus, I trust in You. Image: The Apostles, by Lawrence OP, CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.Source: Free RSS feed from catholic-daily-reflections.com — Copyright © 2026 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. This content is provided solely for personal, non-commercial use. Redistribution, republication, or commercial use — including use within apps with advertising — is strictly prohibited without written permission.

Welcome to Day 2951 of Wisdom-Trek, and thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain and today is Day 2951 – Theology Thursday – A Foretaste of Eternity: Worship and Relics in Orthodox Christianity Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script - Day 2951 Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps!   I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2951 of our Trek.   The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before. Our current series of Theology Thursday lessons is written by theologian and teacher John Daniels. I have found his lessons short, easy to understand, doctrinally sound, and applicable to all who want to learn more of God's Word. John's lessons are available on his website, theologyinfive.com. Today's episode is:  A Foretaste of Eternity: Worship and Relics in Orthodox Christianity. At the heart of Orthodox Christianity lies a profoundly sacramental vision of reality, one in which worship does not merely recall past events or anticipate future fulfillment but draws the faithful into the living presence of God. Orthodox spirituality understands the Church's rites as encounters with eternity, moments where heaven and earth overlap and the constraints of ordinary time are set aside. This conviction shapes the entire liturgical life of the Church, from the Divine Liturgy to the veneration of relics, both of which testify to the belief that the Kingdom of God is not only awaited but actively entered through worship. Orthodoxy does not treat sacred rites as symbolic gestures meant to stimulate memory or emotion. Instead, the Church understands worship as participation in divine realities that exist beyond chronological time. When believers gather, they are not reenacting sacred history but stepping into it. This perspective is grounded in the biblical distinction between chronos, measured and sequential time, and kairos, the appointed moment of God's decisive action. In Orthodox worship, kairos breaks into chronos, allowing the faithful to encounter the eternal now of God's kingdom. The first segment is: Liturgical Time and the Reality of Kairos. The Orthodox Church views liturgical time as fundamentally different from ordinary time. While daily life moves forward in linear progression, the liturgy unfolds as an entry into God's eternal present. This is why Orthodox services are saturated with language that collapses past, present, and future into a single act of worship. The Church does not merely remember Christ's saving work but proclaims it as a present and active reality. This understanding is deeply rooted in Scripture, particularly in passages that describe heavenly worship as ongoing and unceasing. The book of Revelation does not portray heaven as waiting for history to conclude before worship begins. Instead, it reveals a realm where praise is already underway and where redeemed humanity already stands before God, even while the full restoration of all things is not yet complete. Orthodox worship understands itself as a participation in that same heavenly liturgy, not a symbolic imitation of it. The second segment is: The Divine Liturgy as Heavenly Worship. Nowhere is this eternal perspective more fully expressed than in the Divine Liturgy, the central act of Orthodox worship. The Liturgy is not approached as a service observed from a distance but as an act in which the faithful actively participate. The Church gathers with the conviction that it stands before God alongside the angels and the saints, offering praise that transcends earthly limitations. This is why Orthodox churches are intentionally designed to reflect heaven rather than accommodate modern efficiency. Icons, incense, chant, and ritual movement are not aesthetic additions but theological statements. They proclaim that worship is not confined to the material world and that the senses themselves are drawn into the experience of eternity. When the Liturgy begins, the Church does not imagine heaven but enters into its worship. The third segment is: The Eucharist and the Eternal Sacrifice of Christ. At the heart of the Divine Liturgy stands the Eucharist, which most clearly embodies the Orthodox understanding of time and eternity. The Eucharist is not treated as a symbolic reminder of Christ's sacrifice, nor as a repetition of it. Orthodox theology holds that Christ's sacrifice is once for all, complete and unrepeatable, yet eternally present before the Father. In the Eucharist, the Church is brought into that eternal offering. The faithful do not travel back in time to the Last Supper, nor do they merely recall the crucifixion and resurrection. Instead, they participate in the timeless reality of Christ's self-offering, which stands outside historical sequence. This is why the Eucharist is spoken of as a mystery, not because it is vague or irrational, but because it transcends the categories of ordinary experience. The fourth segment is: The Communion of Saints Beyond Time. The Orthodox understanding of worship also reshapes the Church's view of the communion of saints. The Church is not divided between the living and the departed, nor fractured by centuries of history. All who are in Christ are alive in Him, and all worship together as one body. This unity is not poetic language but a lived reality expressed every time the Church gathers for prayer. In Orthodox services, the saints are not treated as distant figures from the past but as present members of the worshiping community. Their hymns are sung, their intercessions are invoked, and their lives are held up as evidence that the victory of Christ over death is already at work. This reinforces the conviction that the Church's worship transcends time and that believers participate in a fellowship that stretches across centuries without losing its unity. The fifth segment is: Relics as Witnesses to the Eternal Kingdom. The veneration of relics flows naturally from this understanding of time and eternity. Relics are not honored as historical curiosities or sentimental connections to the past. They are revered as tangible witnesses to the reality of resurrection and the transformation of the human person through union with Christ. Orthodox Christianity affirms that salvation involves the whole person, body and soul. The saints are not disembodied spirits awaiting redemption but glorified members of Christ's body whose lives testify to the sanctification of creation itself. Relics bear witness to this truth by proclaiming that holiness is not abstract or purely spiritual but leaves its mark on the physical world. The sixth segment is: Relics and Sacred Space. The placement of relics within Orthodox churches further reinforces their theological significance. Altars are traditionally consecrated with relics, reflecting the early Christian practice of celebrating the Eucharist over the graves of martyrs. This practice proclaims that the Church's worship is inseparable from the witness of those who have already finished the race. Relics also sanctify sacred space by declaring that heaven and earth meet within the Church. They remind the faithful that death has been defeated and that the resurrection is not merely a future hope but an already unfolding reality. Through the presence of relics, the Church visibly confesses its belief in the ultimate restoration of creation and the bodily resurrection of the faithful. In Conclusion. The transcendent nature of Orthodox worship and the veneration of relics together offer a vision of faith rooted in participation rather than observation. The sacred rites of the Church are not educational tools designed to convey information about God. They are encounters with God Himself, drawing believers into communion with Christ, the saints, and the heavenly host. In Orthodox Christianity, worship is not confined to the flow of ordinary time. It is an entry into eternity, a foretaste of the age to come. Through the Divine Liturgy, the Eucharist, and the veneration of relics, the faithful are invited to step beyond the limits of the temporal world and into the living reality of God's kingdom, where death is overcome and worship never ends. For further study, consider these Discussion Questions. How does the Orthodox understanding of worship as participation in eternity challenge modern assumptions that worship is primarily symbolic or commemorative? In what ways does the distinction between chronos and kairos help explain how the Divine Liturgy brings past, present, and future together in a single act

On this Let's Talk Pastor Rocky Stevenson of Benoni Bible Church, is joined with Kevin Swanson from Generations Media Network in the USA, and they emphasise the urgent need for Christian men to embrace spiritual strength and courage in the face of cultural decline. Drawing from the book of Joshua, it calls fathers to lead their households with decisive faith and to actively engage in a worldview battle against secular humanism. The discussion highlights the breakdown of family and society due to a loss of biblical manhood, urging men to reject comfort and instead fight for the kingdom of God. It encourages the raising of the next generation through intentional discipleship and father-son mentorship. Ultimately, the podcast asserts that true strength comes from relying on God's presence to stand firm in truth and love.

Overcomer Covenant Church exists to advance the Kingdom of God, locally and globally, by preaching the Gospel, partnering with other ministries, and planting churches. To support Overcomer and help us continue to reach people all around the world, click here: https://overcomercc.org/give If you've just made a decision for Christ, click the link today - https://overcomercc.org/saved If this is your first time joining us, click the link today - https://overcomercc.org/newhere —— Stay Connected! Website: https://overcomercc.org YouTube: https://youtube.com/@overcomercc Instagram: https://instagram.com/overcomercc Facebook: https://facebook.com/overcomercc

Is socialism compatible with Christianity, or does it replace personal charity, ownership, and responsibility with government control? In Part 2 of "Is Socialism Christian?", Alan Smith and Jeff Rowland examine the differences between biblical generosity and socialist economics. They discuss the voluntary giving described in Acts 2 and Acts 5, the biblical view of private property, and why Christian charity begins with the heart rather than government force. The conversation also addresses:  * Why Christianity identifies sin as humanity's deepest problem, not economic class  * How socialism changes personal responsibility and ownership  * The connection between property rights, accountability, and authority  * Why Christians are called to care for their neighbors directly  * What "outsourcing your love of neighbor" means  * The role of contentment, work, family, and personal responsibility  * How political ideas can conflict with biblical teaching  * Why the hosts believe the upcoming midterm election deserves serious attention  * The importance of remembering the sacrifices made by those who fought communism and socialism Smith and Rowland also discuss the biblical kingdom of God, the difference between Christ's government and human political systems, and why Christians should examine political promises through the lens of Scripture. Watch the full episode of The Smith and Rowland Show, then share your thoughts in the comments. Is government redistribution the same as Christian charity, or are they built on entirely different principles? #SmithAndRowland #ChristianityAndPolitics #Socialism #BiblicalWorldview #ChristianCharity

Mark 10:17-2717 As Jesus started on his way, a man ran up to him and fell on his knees before him. “Good teacher,” he asked, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?”18 “Why do you call me good?” Jesus answered. “No one is good—except God alone. 19 You know the commandments: ‘You shall not murder, you shall not commit adultery, you shall not steal, you shall not give false testimony, you shall not defraud, honor your father and mother.'”20 “Teacher,” he declared, “all these I have kept since I was a boy.”21 Jesus looked at him and loved him. “One thing you lack,” he said. “Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.”22 At this the man's face fell. He went away sad, because he had great wealth.23 Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, “How hard it is for the rich to enter the kingdom of God!”26 The disciples were even more amazed, and said to each other, “Who then can be saved?”27 Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but not with God; all things are possible with God.”

On this Let's Talk Pastor Rocky Stevenson of Benoni Bible Church, is joined with Kevin Swanson from Generations Media Network in the USA, and they emphasise the urgent need for Christian men to embrace spiritual strength and courage in the face of cultural decline. Drawing from the book of Joshua, it calls fathers to lead their households with decisive faith and to actively engage in a worldview battle against secular humanism. The discussion highlights the breakdown of family and society due to a loss of biblical manhood, urging men to reject comfort and instead fight for the kingdom of God. It encourages the raising of the next generation through intentional discipleship and father-son mentorship. Ultimately, the podcast asserts that true strength comes from relying on God's presence to stand firm in truth and love.

Do you know the true mission of the Church? In Matthew 28:19-20, Jesus commands us to make disciples of all nations. However, many individuals and churches struggle to make true disciples that will establish His kingdom in the next generation. In this series, Pastor Greg Mohr shares how to identify and develop true disciples of Jesus, find godly mentors, and avoid common pitfalls in the discipleship process. Learn how to create a lasting impact and advance the Kingdom of God!

On this Let's Talk Pastor Rocky Stevenson of Benoni Bible Church, is joined with Kevin Swanson from Generations Media Network in the USA, and they emphasise the urgent need for Christian men to embrace spiritual strength and courage in the face of cultural decline. Drawing from the book of Joshua, it calls fathers to lead their households with decisive faith and to actively engage in a worldview battle against secular humanism. The discussion highlights the breakdown of family and society due to a loss of biblical manhood, urging men to reject comfort and instead fight for the kingdom of God. It encourages the raising of the next generation through intentional discipleship and father-son mentorship. Ultimately, the podcast asserts that true strength comes from relying on God's presence to stand firm in truth and love.

CheckoutThe God Centered Concept Academy Training Community to learn what growth in Christ isTUVU CommunitiesCheck out this link to view Kingdom Cross Roads on TV.https://jesussaid.tv/?affiliate=tswright_gccTo get a copy of our new book "Embracing the Truth" or to have TS Wright speak at your event or conference or if you simply want spiritual or life coaching or just a consultation visit:www.tswrightspeaks.comVisit our website to learn more about The God Centered Concept. The God Centered Concept is designed to bring real discipleship and spreading the Gospel to help spark the Great Harvest, a revival in this generation.www.godcenteredconcept.comKingdom Cross Roads Podcast is a part of The God Centered Concept.What happens when grief is buried instead of processed—and how can God use even our deepest pain to transform our lives?In this special CPE Summer 2026 edition of Kingdom Cross Roads Podcast, T.S. Wright sits down with returning guest and award-winning author Cassandra Armstrong to discuss her book, Growth in the Grief.Cassandra shares how the loss of her mother became the catalyst that caused her to confront years of unresolved grief. Through journaling, prayer, and seeking God, what began as a private healing process eventually developed into a book designed to help others recognize that grief reaches far beyond the death of a loved one.During this conversation, Cassandra speaks candidly about experiencing the loss of her infant daughter to SIDS, sexual assault during her military service, regret over decisions from earlier seasons of her life, and the tendency to compartmentalize pain rather than truly process it.She explains how God began showing her that grief could become more than something to survive—it could become part of a refining process.Drawing from the biblical principle that suffering produces perseverance and perseverance produces character, Cassandra and T.S. explore how believers can bring pain, regret, unanswered questions, and loss to the foot of the Cross rather than allowing those experiences to control their future.The conversation also addresses the reality of continuing life after loss—the empty chair at Christmas, the responsibilities that remain, and the challenge of moving forward while still carrying a story that has permanently changed you.One of Cassandra's central messages is simple but powerful: we do not always understand God's plan, but we can learn to trust Him in the middle of it.Through genuine repentance, surrender, prayer, and dependence upon God, Cassandra describes discovering the kind of peace that Scripture says surpasses all understanding.IN THIS EPISODEListeners will hear about:How Growth in the Grief developed from Cassandra's personal journalsWhy unresolved grief can affect later seasons of lifeThe danger of compartmentalizing painGrieving more than the physical death of a loved oneProcessing regret and past decisions through repentance and faithCassandra's journey after losing her eight-day-old daughter to SIDSMoving beyond self-blame and learning to trust God's planHow suffering can produce perseverance and characterContinuing to live faithfully after devastating lossBringing grief and pain to the foot of the CrossHow God can use our testimony to help someone else know they are not aloneFinding the peace of God even when circumstances cannot be explainedKEY MESSAGEYour grief does not have to become the end of your story. When pain is surrendered to God, He can use even seasons of suffering to refine your character, deepen your faith, and turn your testimony into hope for someone else.CALL TO ACTIONIf you or someone you love is walking through grief, loss, regret, or a painful season, share this episode with them and remind them that they do not have to walk through it alone.Pick up Cassandra Armstrong's book, Growth in the Grief, through major booksellers, and connect with her ministry and work.Then subscribe to Kingdom Cross Roads Podcast, share this episode, and join us as we continue bringing you conversations designed to strengthen your faith, deepen your understanding of God's Kingdom, and equip you to walk out your calling in Jesus Christ.KEYWORDS / TAGSCassandra Armstrong, Growth in the Grief, grief and faith, Christian grief, Christian grief counseling, healing from grief, overcoming grief, grief recovery, God and grief, faith through grief, finding God in suffering, Christian healing, emotional healing, healing through Jesus, processing grief, unresolved grief, loss of a child, infant loss, SIDS, grief after losing a parent, trusting God through loss, Christian testimony, overcoming trauma, faith after trauma, repentance and healing, God's peace, peace that surpasses understanding, suffering produces perseverance, Romans 5, Christian encouragement, Christian author, Christian books, CPE 2026, Christian Product Expo, Kingdom Cross Roads Podcast, TS Wright, T.S. Wright, Christian podcast, faith podcast, Kingdom of God, Christian interviews

Why does Christ need to come back at all? Dr. William Lane Craig lays out four purposes Scripture assigns to the Second Coming: it completes the work of redemption begun at the cross, triggers the resurrection of the dead, brings about the judgment of all people, and gathers the elect into the Kingdom of God. Drawing on 1 Corinthians 15, John 5, Matthew 16 and 24, and Jude, Dr. Craig shows that the Second Coming is not a single event with one purpose but a multifaceted culmination of God's redemptive plan.

The Signs of the Kingdom of God - The Gospel According to Matthew: Chapters 8-9 (2026) by Shawn Ozbun

Catholic vs Protestant views on atonement. What is free will? What is the Kingdom of God that Jesus asks us to pray for?

What if the Kingdom of God isn't just somewhere we're going - but a reality we're invited to live in right now? In this powerful continuation of Nicole's conversation with Demetrius Archontakis, they go deeper into what it means to follow Jesus - not simply as someone who has been "saved," but as a disciple who is learning to live from the victory Christ has already given us. Demetri challenges the common mindset of waiting for heaven while simply trying to survive life on earth. Instead, he invites us to recognize that salvation is the beginning, not the end. The Kingdom of God is something we can experience today as we walk with Jesus, grow in our identity, bear His fruit, and bring His presence into every area of our lives. The conversation explores the transforming power of grace, the connection between what we believe and how we behave, and the difference between knowing about Jesus and actually knowing Him. They also discuss spiritual maturity, the role of the Body of Christ, why no single church has the complete picture, and how our private lives ultimately shape our public witness. Perhaps most importantly, Demetri shares why private victories must come before public victories. When our identity and confidence are rooted in Christ rather than our own performance, we can stop striving toward victory and begin living from it. This episode is an invitation to move beyond simply believing in Jesus - to walk with Him, know Him, and allow His life to transform the way we live, lead, and influence the world around us. What We Discuss in This Episode What it means to live in the Kingdom of God now Why salvation is a beginning - not the end - of our journey with Christ Moving from knowing about Jesus to actually knowing and experiencing Him Understanding grace as more than a "get out of jail free" card How our identity in Christ shapes our behavior Why spiritual maturity requires more than simply attending church The importance of the whole body of Christ and the different roles churches and believers play Why the Church should not try to become homogeneous, but unified around Christ How our private lives ultimately affect our public witness The difference between public victories and private victories Living from righteousness rather than constantly trying to prove ourselves How cultural beliefs and practices can influence our faith Why biblical principles remain relevant even when culture and technology change What it means to be free in Christ - even when our external circumstances haven't changed Episode Highlights 00:00 — The Kingdom of God Is Here and Now 02:16 — Salvation Is a Beginning, Not the End 07:08 — Your Identity Shapes Your Behavior 09:32 — Seeing the Father Through the Lens of Jesus 16:49 — Walking With Jesus Every Day 21:33 — Every Part of the Body of Christ Has a Purpose 23:54 — Why the Church Needs Spiritual Maturity 26:11 — The Danger of Imbalance in the Church 33:18 — Christ Above Culture 38:09 — Christ at the Center, Not Theological Arguments 43:02 — The Power of Private Victories 45:27 — Living From Victory, Not Toward Victory 49:56 — True Freedom Is Found in Christ Memorable Quotes "Your life starts when you meet Him." "The full picture of Christ is experienced throughout the body of Christ." "We need to start having private victories so that we can have more public victories." "It's not yours that you should boast. It's His." "You can be a slave on someone's ship, be in a dungeon like Paul was, or be under house arrest and still be free." Episode Resources: https://leadersoftransformation.com/podcast/spirituality/559-the-fathers-heart-part-2-living-from-victory-demetrius-archontakis  Part 1: https://leadersoftransformation.com/podcast/spirituality/558-the-fathers-heart-part-1-simply-jesus-with-demetrius-archontakis    Check out our complete library of episodes and other leadership resources here: https://leadersoftransformation.com ________

Are you treating your material wealth as something to be buried for safety, or are you ready to risk it all to build the kingdom of God? This week on Off Script, Scott and the team celebrate reaching their 50th episode milestone while diving deep into the Parable of the Talents and what it truly means to manage God's resources . The guys break down why biblical stewardship is about far more than just money, yet never about less than money . From unpacking why the Bible mentions financial possessions over 2,000 times to celebrating over 1,000 baptisms this year, this conversation challenges us to stop playing religious games with God, stop waiting for "fairness," and start bringing our first and best right now - from this moment on . The Challenge: This week, take a hard look at what God has entrusted into your hands . Choose one specific area of your resources - whether it is your finances, time, or talents - where you have been hedging your bets out of fear, and commit to bringing your "first and best" in faithful obedience . Hosts: Neil Gregory and Scott Nickell What We Discuss Celebrating roughly 50 episodes and nearly a year of the Off Script podcast Why the Parable of the Talents is about way more than money, but certainly not less than money Scripture stats: Why there are over 2,300 verses addressing material possessions compared to prayer, faith, and love The responsibility of teaching healthy biblical views on money to our kids instead of outsourcing leadership Lessons from Gospel Patrons: How monetary partnership between William Tyndale and Monmouth brought English Bibles to light Why criticism against church spending on facilities and technology is often a bad-faith argument Acknowledging the unsung "two-talent people" who make ministry happen behind the scenes, from UK basketball player Anthony Epps to Southland's lead team Why demanding "fairness" from God is dangerous and why we should focus on faithful stewardship over outcome comparisons How to handle waiting seasons when you feel ready for bigger responsibilities before God expands your platform Differentiating between playing religious games with God out of fear and moving in terrifying, costly obedience ⸻ About Southland Christian Church Southland is one church meeting in multiple locations across central Kentucky. We believe Jesus came for the lost and the broken, which means there's a place for everyone here. Around here, that means we worship defiantly, speak truth unashamedly, and extend grace generously. To support this ministry and help us continue to reach across Central Kentucky and all around the world, visit: https://southland.church/give

Dr. Adam teaches on the 5 lies the enemy uses that causes us to stop advancing the Kingdom of God.

In this special episode, Rev. and Mrs. LJ and Andrea Harry share their story of loving God and loving one another, and how marriage shapes us for ministry to others in the kingdom of God.

Do you know the true mission of the Church? In Matthew 28:19-20, Jesus commands us to make disciples of all nations. However, many individuals and churches struggle to make true disciples that will establish His kingdom in the next generation. In this series, Pastor Greg Mohr shares how to identify and develop true disciples of Jesus, find godly mentors, and avoid common pitfalls in the discipleship process. Learn how to create a lasting impact and advance the Kingdom of God!

The David Alliance  TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com Garth Heckman Accuser   Do you inhale or exhale when you putt?    THE ACCUSER - THE RATT  START WITH A WARNING… **If you do not understand how the accuser works you will be used by him and for his purpose without even knowing it.   Here is how it works:  People play the VICTIM - Why me, me oh my, waaa waaa waaa, poor me.   Then they turn into the VILLIAN - They attack people who they feel have it made, had it easy, they think they are arrogant simply because they are successful in some area of life.   They they become Victors and they fight on behalf of the other “VICTIMS”… Jeff Karow “I shudder thinking about the 11 year old little girl who could not get an abortion after being brutally raped.    The worst thing about being deceived is you do not know you are deceived. You operate in the mindset of fact, but its not fact at all. Remember when cigarettes did not cause cancer.    John 8 Jesus returned to the Mount of Olives, 2 but early the next morning he was back again at the Temple. A crowd soon gathered, and he sat down and taught them. 3 As he was speaking, the teachers of religious law and the Pharisees brought a woman who had been caught in the act of adultery. They put her in front of the crowd. 4 “Teacher,” they said to Jesus, “this woman was caught in the act of adultery. 5 The law of Moses says to stone her. What do you say?” 6 They were trying to trap him into saying something they could use against him, but Jesus stooped down and wrote in the dust with his finger. 7 They kept demanding an answer, so he stood up again and said, “All right, but let the one who has never sinned throw the first stone!” 8 Then he stooped down again and wrote in the dust. 9 When the accusers heard this, they slipped away one by one, beginning with the oldest, until only Jesus was left in the middle of the crowd with the woman. 10 Then Jesus stood up again and said to the woman, “Where are your accusers? Didn't even one of them condemn you?” 11 “No, Lord,” she said. And Jesus said, “Neither do I. Go and sin no more.”   The historical background of this passage—traditionally known as the Pericope Adulterae—is shaped by a clever political trap, a clash between competing legal systems, and a fascinating journey through ancient manuscripts. [1, 2, 3, 4]    peh-RIK-oh-pee - It's from Greek, meaning "a cutting out" or "a selected passage,” Adulterae = ah-dul-TAIR-eye   1. The Legal Trap: Roman Law vs. Jewish Law The religious leaders weren't just asking Jesus for a theological opinion; they were trying to force Him into a dangerous political and legal corner: [3, 5]    The Roman Constraint: Under Roman occupation, the Jewish authorities (the Sanhedrin) were stripped of their power to officially execute anyone. If Jesus agreed that the woman should be stoned to death, He would be encouraging an illegal vigilante execution, breaking Roman law and setting Himself up as a rebel leader against Rome. The Mosaic Constraint: If Jesus said she should go free, He would appear to be breaking the Law of Moses(Leviticus 20:10), which prescribed the death penalty for adultery. This would instantly ruin His credibility as a Rabbi among the Jewish people.    What is really going on here? Judging Jesus response - while they themselves do not hold themselves accountable to the same standard.    *they are not willing to make a call on this - but judging Jesus on his response.   People will call you out - all the while never talk about their own lack of character in the same manner.   Where was the man? The Mosaic law explicitly stated that both the man and the woman caught in adultery were to be put to death. **Missing information: Accusers will never share the whole story.    2. The Location: The Temple Courts The text explicitly states this encounter took place in the Temple courts (John 8:2).     The sprawling courts of Herod's Temple were not dirt roads or sandy paths; they were grand, public plazas paved with massive, polished stone tiles. If there was loose dust blown onto the stones, Jesus could have been writing in the dirt. However, if He was pressing His finger directly against the smooth, hard flagstones of the Temple floor, a mere human finger would leave no mark. For Him to "engrave" or "write" a visible record there would require a miracle. [7, 8]    3. The Theological Parallel: The Finger of God By highlighting that Jesus wrote "with his finger," John uses a very rare phrasing that immediately points a Jewish reader back to the Old Testament. [7, 9]      In the entire Bible, there are only a few times where God is described as physically writing something. The most famous is Exodus 31:18: "He gave Moses the two tablets of the Testimony, tablets of stone, written with the finger of God."   Jesus was silently saying: "You are trying to lecture Me on the Law? I am the one who carved it in stone in the first place." [1, 10]    OOOOOOO   The phrase "the finger of God" appears only a handful of times in the entire Bible. Each instance represents an irresistible, sovereign display of divine authority and judgment on those who try to play God.  When you connect these other passages to Jesus in the Temple courts, they paint a staggering picture of who He was claiming to be.     1. The Plagues of Egypt (Exodus 8:19)   The Context: During the ten plagues, Pharaoh's court sorcerers try to replicate the miracles Moses performs. When God turns the dust of the earth into swarms of gnats, the magicians fail to copy it. Terrified, they tell Pharaoh: "This is the finger of God."   2. The Ten Commandments (Exodus 31:18 & Deuteronomy 9:10)   The Context: God delivers the moral law to humanity not by dictating it to Moses, but by physically carving it Himself. The text notes the tablets were "written with the finger of God" on stone.   3. The Writing on the Wall (Daniel 5:5)   The Context: King Belshazzar of Babylon throws a blasphemous feast, drinking out of the sacred gold cups stolen from God's Temple. Suddenly, the fingers of a human hand appear and scratch a mysterious message into the plaster of the wall (Mene, Mene, Tekel, Parsin). Daniel interprets the writing: God has weighed the king's deeds, found him wanting, and his kingdom is finished.   4. Jesus Driving Out Demons (Luke 11:20)   The Context: Jesus is accused by His critics of using the power of Satan to cast out demons. He fires back: "But if I drive out demons by the finger of God, then the kingdom of God has come upon you."   This is a great teaching device — pastors use this "voice of the accuser" framing often to expose the enemy's tactics. Here's a biblically-grounded list, treating it as an exposé of strategy rather than actually voicing that persona.

Welcome to our Reveal podcast,What would it look like if the reality of Heaven began to shape the way we live here on Earth?In our new series, Kingdom Come: On Earth as It Is in Heaven, we're taking a deeper look at what it means to live as people of God's Kingdom not someday, but right here, right now.Jesus taught us to pray, “Your kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.” But what does that actually mean for our everyday lives, our relationships, our communities, and the way we follow Jesus?This series invites us to discover that the Kingdom of God isn't simply something we're waiting for. It's a reality we're called to participate in.________________________________________________________________________To support this ministry and help us continue our God-given mission,Subscribe to our channel for the latest sermons:https://www.youtube.com/@revealvineyardLearn more about Vineyard Church Reveal Campus:https://www.revealvineyard.com/Follow us on social media!Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/vineyardrevealcampusFacebook | https://www.facebook.com/RevealVineyard

This week, Bryan leads a reflection on 1 Corinthians 6:12 “'I have the right to do anything,” you say—but not everything is beneficial. “I have the right to do anything”—but I will not be mastered by anything." He explores the question "What does real freedom look like in the Kingdom of God?"

In this Bible Story, Jesus calls the twelve disciples. They are not chosen because of their skills or accomplishments, wisdom or prowess. Jesus chooses a ragtag group of misfits and outcasts. Through them, the kingdom of God spreads across the entire world. This story is inspired by Matthew 10:1-4, 16, 28-32, 37-39; Matthew 12:9-15; Mark 3:14-19; Luke 6:6-16. Go to https://www.BibleinaYear.com and learn the Bible in a Year.Today's Bible verse is Matthew 10:1 from the King James Version.Episode 184: As another Sabbath approached, Jesus went into the synagogue to worship. As He entered He saw a man with a withered hand. The Pharisees were eager to catch Him in a trap on the Sabbath, but Jesus knew this and would not be stopped from doing good to a man in need. After this, Jesus and His followers went over to a mountain where He spoke words of encouragement to them and chose twelve of them to become His disciples. These twelve men would follow Him everywhere and learn what it truly meant to live a life that is honorable to God.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 Haberkorn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It rarely starts with a huge decision. It starts with “just this once.”Compromise doesn't usually pull you away from Jesus overnight. It happens slowly—one small exception, one ignored conviction, one seemingly harmless decision at a time.In this message from Revelation 2, Pastor Curtis challenges us to recognize the compromises we tolerate before they become the things that control us. Jesus' warning to the churches at Pergamum and Thyatira shows us that what opposition from the outside cannot stop, compromise on the inside can. But this message isn't simply a warning. It's a reminder of the Gospel: when we've compromised, the answer isn't to try harder—it's to repent, return to Jesus, and remember who we are in Him. What you don't confront now can destroy you later.GIVING To support this ministry and help us continue to reach people all around the world click here: https://authenticchurch.com/give GET CONNECTED Ready to check out Authentic Church in person? We can't wait to meet you in person. Simply fill out the form below and we'll make sure to give you the VIP treatment upon your first visit. https://authenticchurch.com/plan-a-visit ABOUT AUTHENTIC CHURCH Authentic Church exists so that people will have an authentic encounter with God, be set free, and grow in Christ. Our mission is to help each person at Authentic believe in Jesus, belong to family, inspire true worship, walk in God's Spirit, and build the kingdom of God.

Think about this truth. God didn't have to love us. He didn't have to offer us grace and mercy. Nothing forced God to show us forgiveness. Nothing compelled Him to give us the precious gift of eternal life, but God chose to. He chose to love us. He chose to call us His own. He chose to make us children of God. Main Points:1. If you've ever been tempted to doubt the love of God, recognize this wonderful blessing: God chose to love you. Despite all of your sins, your failures, and your mistakes, God still chose to love you and wants to spend eternity with you. 2. But there's more: not only has God chosen to love us, He has chosen to use us. You have an assignment, a task, and a role to play in the kingdom of God. For many of us, we feel as if we aren't capable or qualified, so we expect God will use others instead, but that is not what the Scriptures teach us.3. God takes great joy and delight in using our lives for his glory. As He empowers us with His Holy Spirit, and we take steps of faith and obedience, great things are accomplished through our lives. All of this takes place because He chooses to make it happen.Today's Scripture Verses:1 Peter 2:9 - “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.”1 Peter 2:4 - “…rejected by humans but chosen by God and precious to him.”1 Corinthians 1:26-29 - “Brothers and sisters, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. God chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast before him.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Check us out: https://www.determinetruth.com What does it actually mean to “know” God? In this episode of the DetermineTruth Podcast, Vinnie and Rob explore 1, 2, and 3 John—three fascinating New Testament writings centered on truth, love, obedience, fellowship, and what it means to genuinely know God. We begin with some important background questions. Did the Apostle John actually write 1, 2, and 3 John? Why is 1 John technically anonymous while 2 and 3 John identify their author simply as “the elder”? What was the Johannine community? And what can early Christian writers like Papias, Polycarp, and Ignatius tell us about the world in which these writings emerged? Then we turn to one of the most important themes in 1 John: knowledge. John repeatedly talks about knowing God—but the Greek text reveals something that can be easy to miss in English translations. The letter uses different Greek words for knowledge, including ginōskō and oida, as John connects what Christians know intellectually with what they have experienced and demonstrated through their lives. That leads to a challenging question: Can we really claim to know God if the way we live contradicts what we say we believe? For 1 John, knowing God is not merely possessing correct theological information. Knowing Christ produces a life characterized by obedience, righteousness, love for others, and participation in the life of the Christian community. Vinnie Angelo & Rob Dalrymple FOLLOW THE PODCAST Subscribe to be notified of our new episodes (each Monday).  Want to help us expand the Gospel of the Kingdom? Leave a review, “like” the podcast, or share it with others. CONNECT WITH DETERMINETRUTH MINISTRIES The Determinetruth Podcast is a ministry of Determinetruth Ministries. We offer free resources to equip pastors, leaders, and the body of Christ in the US and worldwide for service in the kingdom of God. You can visit us online at https://www.determinetruth.com SUPPORT DETERMINETRUTH MINISTRIES Determinetruth is a non-profit 501(c)(3), and relies completely on the financial support of our partners around the world.  Please consider partnering with us and making a tax-deductible donation https://tithe.ly/give_new/www/#/tithely/give-one-time/3648601 Want a FREE CHAPTER from Rob's latest book? Sign up for email updates from Determinetruth. https://mailchi.mp/5672d33f2b95/dt-podcast Music: “Love is Against the Grain” (Dime Store Prophets)

We're not just a church. We're a Family.Our Vision is clear, simple, and unique. Our vision is Jesus in you. Our vision is for the people of God to have a faith that holds them. The kind of faith that vanquishes doubt, verifies identity, and voraciously contends for inner peace. A faith that removes the past, clarifies the present, and breathes life into the future. Our vision is the Kingdom of God built within the people of this obscure, yet mighty generation. A kingdom so great that its purpose destroys the common lack of self worth. A kingdom that sharpens the eyes, tenses the muscles, and readies itself for the battle against darkness. A Kingdom that brings purpose and healing to those who have failed more than succeeded, who are sinners more than saints, and who have known more pain than pleasure. Our vision is to challenge the weak and unproductive church of our day. To step beyond those who are religiously immature and search out those who for their love for Christ cannot be offended. Our hope is to raise warriors instead of those who think God only exists to keep bad things from happening. To raise those who know that following Christ means suffering loss yet gaining all things. Our vision is clear, simple, and unique…. It is Christ in you, the hope of glory.

We're not just a church. We're a Family.Our Vision is clear, simple, and unique. Our vision is Jesus in you. Our vision is for the people of God to have a faith that holds them. The kind of faith that vanquishes doubt, verifies identity, and voraciously contends for inner peace. A faith that removes the past, clarifies the present, and breathes life into the future. Our vision is the Kingdom of God built within the people of this obscure, yet mighty generation. A kingdom so great that its purpose destroys the common lack of self worth. A kingdom that sharpens the eyes, tenses the muscles, and readies itself for the battle against darkness. A Kingdom that brings purpose and healing to those who have failed more than succeeded, who are sinners more than saints, and who have known more pain than pleasure. Our vision is to challenge the weak and unproductive church of our day. To step beyond those who are religiously immature and search out those who for their love for Christ cannot be offended. Our hope is to raise warriors instead of those who think God only exists to keep bad things from happening. To raise those who know that following Christ means suffering loss yet gaining all things. Our vision is clear, simple, and unique…. It is Christ in you, the hope of glory.

EIGHT THINGS THE NEW TESTAMENT SAYS ABOUT HEALING, SIGNS, AND WONDERS • Friday Service Website: www.PastorTodd.org To Give: www.ToddCoconato.com/give 1. HEALING WAS NEVER A SIDE ISSUE TO JESUS — IT WAS THE PROOF OF THE KINGDOM Matthew 4:23-24 (NKJV) — "And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all kinds of sickness and all kinds of disease among the people... and He healed them." 2. HE DIDN'T KEEP THE POWER TO HIMSELF — HE GAVE IT AWAY Luke 9:1-2 (NKJV) — "Then He called His twelve disciples together and gave them power and authority over all demons, and to cure diseases. He sent them to preach the kingdom of God and to heal the sick." 3. HEALING IS ONE OF THE SIGNS THAT FOLLOWS THOSE WHO BELIEVE Mark 16:17-18 (NKJV) — "And these signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons... they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover." 4. HEALING WAS PURCHASED AT THE CROSS, NOT JUST SALVATION Matthew 8:16-17 (NKJV) — "When evening had come, they brought to Him many who were demon-possessed. And He cast out the spirits with a word, and healed all who were sick, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Isaiah the prophet, saying: 'He Himself took our infirmities and bore our sicknesses.'" 1 Peter 2:24 (NKJV) — "...by whose stripes you were healed." 5. THE CHURCH WAS GIVEN A STANDING PRACTICE FOR THE SICK James 5:14-15 (NKJV) — "Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise him up." 6. GOD STILL DISTRIBUTES GIFTS OF HEALING THROUGH THE SPIRIT 1 Corinthians 12:9-10 (NKJV) — "to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by the same Spirit, to another the working of miracles..." 7. SIGNS AND WONDERS WERE GOD'S OWN CONFIRMATION OF THE GOSPEL Hebrews 2:3-4 (NKJV) — "God also bearing witness both with signs and wonders, with various miracles, and gifts of the Holy Spirit, according to His own will." Acts 5:12 (NKJV) — "And through the hands of the apostles many signs and wonders were done among the people." 8. THE WORKS OF JESUS CONTINUE THROUGH EVERYONE WHO BELIEVES IN HIM John 14:12 (NKJV) — "Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do he will do also; and greater works than these he will do, because I go to My Father."

Our text today is 1 Peter 5:3-4: not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock. And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory. — 1 Peter 5:3-4 Peter never forgot the night Jesus picked up a towel. John tells us that Jesus knew the Father had given all things into His hands. He knew where He had come from and where He was going. Yet those hands did not grasp for greater status. They removed His outer garment, tied a towel around His waist, and washed the feet of His disciples. The One with absolute authority used it to serve. In that moment, Peter resisted because he did not yet understand how authority worked in the kingdom of God. But years later, that scene shaped the way he taught leaders here. Yesterday, as we began this final chapter together, Peter told us that Christian leaders are shepherds. The people under their care belong to God, not to them. Today he moves from the leader's assignment to the leader's example. Peter writes: "Not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock." Shepherds must lead. But Christian authority must never become a tool for intimidation, manipulation, control, or self-preservation. The world measures authority by how many people report to you. Jesus measures it by how willingly you serve the people entrusted to you. Peter had heard Jesus say, "The rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them" (Matthew 20:25). Then Jesus added, "It shall not be so among you" (Matthew 20:26). And I would assume Peter remembered that, because he echoes that lesson. Instead of dominating people, leaders are to become "examples to the flock." The word translated "example" bears the picture of a "model." Every model leaves an imprint. People may listen to your instructions, but they learn from your patterns. They watch how you handle criticism, how you respond under pressure, how you treat your family, how you speak about people who are absent, and what you do when you are wrong. Your life models even when your mouth is closed. This does not imply Christian leaders must present themselves as flawless. Peter certainly could not. Being a model means living a life that others can follow toward Christ. Sometimes that means demonstrating courage, sacrifice, prayer, and obedience. At other times, the most powerful example is saying: "I was wrong." Or "Forgive me." Then Peter turns our minds toward the future: "And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory." Every Christian leader remains under authority. Pastors have a Pastor. Shepherds have a Shepherd. Leaders have a Lord. Jesus is the Chief Shepherd, and He will return. That truth is both comforting and sobering. It is comforting because the church does not ultimately rest on any human leader's strength. It is sobering because every leader will answer to Christ for how he treated the people placed in his care. But Christ promises an unfading crown to those who faithfully serve His flock. Peter, of course, is speaking directly to church elders, but the principle reaches all of us who carry influence. You may lead a family, a business, a ministry, a team, a classroom, or one younger believer. Somewhere, someone is learning from the way you use authority. Authority in the kingdom is not a ladder to climb. It is a towel to pick up. A leader worth following does not merely point toward Jesus from a distance. They walk toward Jesus so others can see their steps. And tomorrow, Peter will show us the garment every leader—and every believer—must wear if we are going to live this way: Humility. DO THIS: Choose one relationship in which you carry authority or influence. Ask yourself what your current example is teaching that person about following Jesus. Then take one visible action today that models service, repentance, patience, or obedience. ASK THIS: Do the people under my influence feel served and strengthened—or controlled and diminished? What pattern am I setting through the way I respond to pressure, criticism, and failure? Am I more concerned about recognition from people or approval from the Chief Shepherd? PRAY THIS: Chief Shepherd, thank You for every person You have entrusted to my influence. Forgive me for the times I have used authority to protect my ego, secure control, or demand recognition. Teach me to lead as Jesus led—with truth, courage, humility, and service. Make my life a faithful pattern that helps others follow You. Amen. PLAY THIS: "Only Jesus."

Pastor Carol is back to discuss how to stay focused and trust in the Lord. She bring wit, laughter, and wisdom to the discussion.Pastor Carol was born and raised in Hollywood and was active within the entertainment community as an actress and singer. Her plans changed course when she accepted Jesus in college at 19. Years of age. After a series of miraculous healings, including Cancer, she was called into the ministry. Over the last forty years, she has served in almost every capacity of ministry within the local church and has recorded 3 Gospel cds, appeared on numerous television and radio broadcasts, including her own show “Joyful Journey” which can be seen around world. Pastor Carina is a Christian life coach, Keynote Speaker, and Mentor who God has uniquely gifted to activate others in the body of Christ. She carries an anointing to stir dormant callings, awaken spiritual gifts, and ignite Kingdom assignments,  empowering believers to step boldly into their God-given identity, walk in divine purpose, and bear lasting fruit for His glory. She's the Founder of Trumpets of Tirzah, an international apostolic center for women that facilitates purpose discovery, Kingdom lifestyle practices, and biblical leadership disciplines so that women can live, and lead, a "new creation" life that reflects Jesus. Her personal coaching, group mentoring, and Tirzah University courses provide keys of radical transformation that launch women into spheres of influence around the world. www.trumpetsoftirzah.com DONATE TODAYYour support plants seeds and grows the Kingdom of God! We are a 501c3 - www.trumpetsoftirzah.com/donateDo you live the ANOINTED LIFE?We have many testimonies on the miracles that God does as people use our blessed products.Luxury anointing oils and anointing lotions: https://www.trumpetsoftirzah.com/category/anointingCreative ways of sharing the gospel…And take a look at how we are sharing the gospel through film: https://www.trumpetsoftirzah.com/mastersmedia******************************************************** Awaken. Arise. Advance.https://www.trumpetsoftirzah.comDo you want your Christian product advertised on our podcast? Book your ad on Fiver.https://www.fiverr.com/s/NNLl8pN Get your Amplified Bible: https://www.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/product?event=AFF&p=1223731&item_no=0446538Let's connect and journey through life together! We are a mature community of Kingdom believers standing bolding in God's truth and partnering with the Holy Spirit.Engage daily with us! Instagram https://www.instagram.com/trumpetsoftirzah/ TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@trumpetsoftirzahLinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/trumpetsoftirzah iHeart Radio  ⁠https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-trumpets-of-tirzah-120477377/⁠ Amazon Music. ⁠https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c0203ed1-9b85-426a-85f5-5350e82ab730/trumpets-of-tirzah⁠ Apple Podcasts. ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/trumpets-of-tirzah/id1551900025⁠ Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/4DCT4KBVsmzfnqyobR4ZwF Apple Podcasts. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/trumpets-of-tirzah/id1551900025YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TrumpetsofTirzahRumble: https://rumble.com/c/c-5936184#spiritualauthority #holyspiritpower #spiritualgrowth #faithquiz #authorityinchrist #faithoverfear #christianmotivation #growyourfaith #kingdombuilders #kingdommessage #apostolicpreaching #apostolicfaith #digitaldiscipleship #biblestudy #faith #jesus #prayer #sermon #trustgod #christianvirtualfellowship #faithjourney #holyspiritunderstanding #believeinmiracles #inspire #disciplemakerspodcast #femalechristianspeakers #kingdomfaithcoach #growyourfaithtoday #livingasachristianintodaysworld #innerhealingpodcast

In this episode, we see that Pilate asks the crowd who they want released to them Jesus of Nazareth, or Jesus Barabbas. And we are encouraged to choose the Kingdom of God revealed in Jesus of Nazareth!

Notes Matthew 20:1-16 Exodus 16:2-15 In this episode of the Pulpit Fiction Podcast, hosts Eric Fistler and Rob McCoy delve into the parable of the Workers in the Vineyard from Matthew 20:1-16. They explore themes of fairness, grace, and the nature of the Kingdom of God, challenging traditional perceptions of work and reward. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding the broader context of the parable and the absurdity of grace, ultimately highlighting that in God's kingdom, everyone receives enough to meet their needs. In this episode, the hosts explore themes of generosity, community, and divine provision through the lens of Dolly Parton's legacy and biblical narratives. They discuss the importance of trusting in God's provision as illustrated in the Exodus story, the significance of the Sabbath, and the need for community engagement and support. The conversation emphasizes the idea of 'enough' and the role of generosity in fostering a caring community.

The good news about forgiveness. A sermon on Matthew 18:21-35 by Rev. Justin Morgan.

 Deep down we all crave home, the Kingdom of God, righteousness, peace and joy 

How do you follow Jesus faithfully when the culture around you is constantly trying to tell you who you should be?In Clash of Kingdoms: Part 1 — Living in Babylon, Pastor Tadd Grandstaff begins a journey through the book of Daniel and looks at what Daniel 1 teaches us about identity, conviction, and remaining faithful to God in a culture that doesn't honor Him.Daniel didn't choose Babylon, but he did have to choose how he would live there. Before Babylon tried to change Daniel's behavior, it tried to redefine his identity. But Daniel knew who he belonged to—and that changed how he lived.In this message, we discover three anchors for living faithfully in Babylon:• Babylon will try to tell you who you are—you have to know who God says you are.• Knowing who you are determines how you live.• Your identity has to be rooted deeper than your circumstances.Daniel learned how to live in Babylon without letting Babylon live in him. As followers of Jesus, we're called to do the same—not running from the culture around us and not becoming like it, but faithfully representing the Kingdom of God wherever He has placed us.Circumstances change. Culture changes. Kings and kingdoms come and go. But God does not change, and His Kingdom lasts forever.“Don't trade an eternal identity for temporary acceptance.”If your identity is rooted in Christ, your past, your failures, your circumstances, and the opinions of others no longer get the final word. Jesus does.Scripture: Daniel 1, Colossians 3:3, 2 Corinthians 5:17If this message encouraged you, share it with someone who needs the reminder that their identity is found in Jesus.Stay connected with Hope Church: hopechurchnc.comHope Church exists to do whatever it takes for all people to follow, grow, live, and go for Jesus.

“Miracle” is finishing military boot camp to become a front lines combat medic in Ukraine. Erik met her on a missions trip to Ukraine and her story will leave you undone. This is a conversation about faith under fire, sacrifice that most of us will never understand, and what it looks like to answer God's call when the cost is everything.This episode will challenge you, move you, and remind you that the Kingdom of God is advancing even in the middle of a war zone.CONNECT WITH USWebsite → https://recoveringreality.comErik's Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/recoveringrealityMayana's Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/recoveringrealitywomenFree Facebook Community → https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CSLCuT4Kf/?mibextid=wwXIfrGO DEEPEROur Devotionals on the Bible App → https://www.bible.com/organizations/4e791eae-c105-44ac-9b19-860399ff59f2Recovering Reality Academy → https://recoveringrealityacademy.thinkific.comWORK WITH ERIK & MAYANAErik's Coaching → https://recoveringreality.com/work-with-usMayana's Women's Coaching → https://recoveringreality.com/recovering-reality-women

Zach's bizarre dream about getting canceled for his beliefs takes an unexpected Phil Robertson turn and launches the guys into a deep dive through Daniel, Revelation, and the kingdom of God. Al, Jase, and Zach trace an ancient timeline that may pinpoint the exact timing of God's kingdom and make a prophecy of their own. The guys wrestle with the identity of the fourth man in the fire, why ego can blind people to truth, and challenge one of the biggest assumptions Christians make about the end times. In this episode: Hebrews 10:19, 22, 35; Daniel 2; Daniel 3; Daniel 7; Acts 17; John 2; Matthew 16:13-19; Hebrews 12:27-29; Colossians 1; Revelation 1:1, 5-9, 13; Revelation 17:3, 9-14; Revelation 21; Ephesians 2; 1 John 3; Mark 3; Mark 10; Hebrews 2:14; Colossians 2; Romans; 1 Peter 2 Want to watch the Lost Episodes of Unashamed, only on EKKL? Get 20% off with code UNASHAMED, and watch faith- and family-friendly movies, podcasts, and more: https://ekkl.com/ “Unashamed” Episode 1416 is sponsored by: https://duckstamp.com/unashamed - Get your digital duck stamp online and keep it right on your phone! Taking care of your health just got easier - start here with Zocdoc: https://zocdoc.com/UNASHAMED #sponsored https://myphdweightloss.com - Find out how Al lost 80+ pounds. Visit the website or call 864-644-1900 and mention "Al Robertson" to get 2 weeks free in the program! https://cozyearth.com/unashamed - Get up to 20% off when you use our link and code UNASHAMED! http://unashamedforhillsdale.com/ - Sign up now for free, and join the Unashamed hosts every Friday for Unashamed Academy Powered by Hillsdale College Check out At Home with Phil Robertson, nearly 800 episodes of Phil's unfiltered wisdom, humor, and biblical truth, available for free for the first time! Get it on Apple, Spotify, Amazon, and anywhere you listen to podcasts! https://open.spotify.com/show/3LY8eJ4ZBZHmsImGoDNK2l Listen to Not Yet Now with Zach Dasher on Apple, Spotify, iHeart, or anywhere you get podcasts. Chapters 00:00 Zach's Dream About Getting Canceled 05:06 Daniel, the Fiery Furnace &Faith Under Pressure 10:22 Nebuchadnezzar Misses the Point 15:48 The Kingdom That Can Never Be Destroyed 19:37 Jesus Fulfills Daniel's Ancient Prophecy 26:19 Has the Kingdom of God Already Arrived? 32:42 Daniel & Revelation Tell the Same Story 40:18 Why the End Times Debate Matters 46:11 Jesus Defeated the Powers of Evil 51:32 Christians Are Already Part of the Kingdom - Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices