Podcasts about Laodicea

As we step into a new year, we're asking an honest and important question: What does it really mean to follow Jesus? In this sermon we'll look at Jesus' words to the church in Laodicea in Revelation 3—a loving but challenging call to move beyond comfortable, halfway faith and into a life of full surrender. Whether 2025 was a year of joy, struggle, growth, or disappointment, this message speaks directly to where we are and where Jesus is inviting us to go next. Following Him was never meant to be "part-way"—it's an all-in invitation to real transformation, freedom, and life with Him. You'll hear a hopeful and grace-filled reminder that Jesus doesn't walk away from us when we struggle—He stands at the door and knocks. He offers forgiveness, clarity, rest, and renewal to anyone willing to open the door and follow Him fully. If you've felt spiritually stuck, lukewarm, or ready for something different this year, we would love for you to give a listen to this encouraging and challenging teaching about what it means to really follow Jesus. 

The first message of the year matters. It sets the tone for everything ahead. Pastor Alex highlighted the importance of this message as we enter into the new year. In Revelation 3:14–22, Jesus speaks to the church of Laodicea with both warning and deep compassion. This wasn't a church in obvious sin, it was a church that had become lukewarm. Self-sufficient. Comfortable. Looking just like the world. Laodicea sat between Hierapolis, known for healing hot springs, and Colossae, known for refreshing cold water. But Laodicea's water was lukewarm. It was good for nothing. Jesus used what they understood to show them their spiritual condition. The western church faces the same danger today. Prosperity can lead to complacency. Success can lead to self-reliance. And when we lose intimacy with Jesus, we lose our authority, our boldness, and our impact. Yet this letter is rooted in love. He's standing at the door, knocking, calling us back to intimacy. As we step into this year, may we refuse lukewarm Christianity. May we be refreshing and healing to those who come to us. Scriptures: Revelation 3:14–22 Colossians 4:13–16 Matthew 5:13–16 Revelation 3:15–16 Revelation 3:17 Revelation 3:18 Revelation 3:19 Revelation 3:20 Revelation 3:21 Revelation 2:7

#top .av-special-heading.av-gs9o3p-c0b0d272aadf764c7f3adf9318e176c7{ padding-bottom:10px; } body .av-special-heading.av-gs9o3p-c0b0d272aadf764c7f3adf9318e176c7 .av-special-heading-tag .heading-char{ font-size:25px; } .av-special-heading.av-gs9o3p-c0b0d272aadf764c7f3adf9318e176c7 .av-subheading{ font-size:15px; } Through My Bible Yr 03 – January 03Revelation 3:14-22 LISTEN HERE Through My Bible – January 03 Revelation 3:14-22 (EHV) https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/tmb-ehv/03-0103db.mp3 See series: Through My Bible Revelation 3 Letter to the Church in Laodicea 14 To the messenger of the church in Laodicea write: The Amen, the faithful and true witness, the ruler of God's creation, says this: 15 I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. If only you were cold or hot! 16 So, because you are lukewarm and not hot or cold, I am about to spit you out of my mouth. 17 You say, “I am rich. I have become very wealthy and need nothing.” But you do not know that you are miserable, pitiful, poor, blind, and naked. 18 I advise you to buy from me gold refined by fire, so that you may be rich, and white garments, so that you may be clothed and the shame of your nakedness may not become public, and salve to anoint your eyes, so that you may see. 19 I rebuke and discipline those whom I love. So take this seriously and repent. 20 Look, I stand at the door and I am knocking. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will go in with him and dine with him, and he with me. 21 To the one who is victorious I will give the right to sit with me on my throne, just as I was victorious and sat down with my Father on his throne. 22 Whoever has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. #top .hr.hr-invisible.av-aocsdx-89cb4ca21532423cf697fc393b6fcee0{ height:10px; } The Holy Bible, Evangelical Heritage Version®, EHV®, © 2019 Wartburg Project, Inc. All rights reserved. #top .hr.hr-invisible.av-4vzadh-3f04b370105df1fd314a2a9d83e55b26{ height:50px; } Share this entryShare on FacebookShare on LinkedInShare by MailLink to FlickrLink to InstagramLink to Vimeo

The apostle John's letter to the final church of Revelation was cautionary, a reminder that prosperity can become complacency and self-sufficiency can be spiritually deadly. Join John Bradshaw on location in Turkey for the final episode of “The Seven Churches of Revelation” and uncover the dangers inherent for Christians in spiritual indifference and being “lukewarm” in your faith.

The apostle John's letter to the final church of Revelation was cautionary, a reminder that prosperity can become complacency and self-sufficiency can be spiritually deadly. Join John Bradshaw on location in Turkey for the final episode of “The Seven Churches of Revelation” and uncover the dangers inherent for Christians in spiritual indifference and being “lukewarm” in your faith.

====================================================SUSCRIBETEhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNpffyr-7_zP1x1lS89ByaQ?sub_confirmation=1==================================================== LECCIÓN DE ESCUELA SABÁTICA         I TRIMESTRE DEL 2026Narrado por: Eddie RodriguezDesde: Guatemala, GuatemalaUna cortesía de DR'Ministries y Canaan Seventh-Day Adventist ChurchMIÉRCOLES 31 DE DICIEMBREPABLO Y COLOSAS No tenemos constancia de que Pablo visitara alguna vez Colosas, lo que nuevamente nos dice algo acerca de la eficacia de su estrategia evangelizadora. En primer lugar, fue Epafras, residente de Colosas (Col. 4:12), quien llevó el evangelio a esa ciudad (Col. 1:7). ¿Cómo ocurrió su conversión? Lo más probable es que haya ocurrido cuando Pablo estuvo a mediados de la década del ‘50 en la cercana Éfeso, y “todos los que habitaban en Asia [...] pudieron oír la palabra del Señor Jesús” (Hech. 19:10; comparar con Hech. 20:31). El libro de Apocalipsis da testimonio de la gran difusión del evangelio en esta zona (Apoc. 1:4). La explicación más plausible de este éxito, incluida su propagación a Colosas, es que haya sido el resultado de la labor de los conversos de Pablo, quienes escucharon por primera vez el mensaje en Éfeso, la ciudad más importante de Asia Menor y uno de los principales puertos. Epafras habría escuchado la predicación de Pablo en Éfeso y, convertido en uno de sus colaboradores, habría llevado el evangelio a su ciudad natal, de Colosas. La ciudad, a unos quince kilómetros al sureste de Laodicea, está siendo excavada en la actualidad, por lo que sabemos menos de ella que de otras ciudades más importantes de la región. Sí sabemos que tenía una población judía numéricamente considerable, de “hasta diez mil de ellos viviendo en esa zona de Frigia” (Arthur G. Patzia, Ephesians, Colossians, Philemon [Peabody, MA: Hendrickson, 1990], p. 3). Las monedas acuñadas en Colosas indican que sus habitantes adoraban, como en muchas ciudades romanas, a una variedad de dioses. Las prácticas paganas y las poderosas influencias culturales planteaban a los cristianos enormes desafíos, no solo para evangelizar la ciudad, sino también para mantenerse fieles a la fe pura del evangelio. Otro cristiano prominente en Colosas fue Filemón, que pudo haberse convertido más o menos al mismo tiempo que Epafras. Lee Filemón 1:15, 16. Ver también Colosenses 4:9. ¿Qué curso de acción recomendó Pablo a Filemón respecto de Onésimo? Aunque la ley romana obligaba a Pablo a devolver a Onésimo a Filemón, el apóstol apela al corazón y a la conciencia de Filemón como compañero creyente, y lo insta a tratar a Onésimo como a un hermano, no como a un esclavo (File. 1:16). Por mucho que aborrezcamos la idea de la esclavitud en cualesquiera de sus formas y deseemos que Pablo hubiera condenado esa práctica, ¿cómo podemos aceptar lo que Pablo dice aquí? (Resulta fascinante que, durante la época de la esclavitud en Estados Unidos, Elena de White dijera específicamente a los adventistas que desobedecieran la ley que ordenaba devolver a los esclavos fugitivos). 

#top .av-special-heading.av-gs9o3p-bdcfe9de08060bf68e8e81dcafe29f78{ padding-bottom:10px; } body .av-special-heading.av-gs9o3p-bdcfe9de08060bf68e8e81dcafe29f78 .av-special-heading-tag .heading-char{ font-size:25px; } .av-special-heading.av-gs9o3p-bdcfe9de08060bf68e8e81dcafe29f78 .av-subheading{ font-size:15px; } Through My Bible Yr 02 – December 28Revelation 1:9-20 LISTEN HERE Through My Bible – December 28 Revelation 1:9-20 (EHV) https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/tmb-ehv/02-1228db.mp3 See series: Through My Bible Revelation 1 God Tells John to Write Down What He Sees 9 I, John, your brother and companion in the suffering and kingship and patient endurance in Jesus, [1] was on the island called Patmos because of the word of God and the testimony about Jesus. [2] 10 I was in spirit on the Lord's Day, and I heard a loud voice behind me, like a trumpet, 11 saying, “Write what you see on a scroll and send it to the seven churches: to Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea.” Jesus Appears 12 I turned to see the voice that was speaking to me. When I turned, I saw seven gold lampstands, 13 and among the lampstands was one like a son of man. He was clothed with a robe that reached to his feet, and around his chest he wore a gold sash. 14 His head and his hair were white, like white wool or like snow. His eyes were like blazing flames. 15 His feet were like polished bronze being refined in a furnace. His voice was like the roar of many waters. 16 He held seven stars in his right hand. A sharp two-edged sword was coming out of his mouth. His face was shining as the sun shines in all its brightness. 17 When I saw him, I fell at his feet like a dead man. He placed his right hand on me and said, “Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last— 18 the Living One. I was dead and, see, I am alive forever and ever! I also hold the keys of death and hell. [3] 19 “So write what you have seen, both those things that are and those that will take place after this. 20 “The mystery of the seven stars, which you saw in my right hand, and the seven gold lampstands is this: The seven stars are the messengers of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands are the seven churches.” Footnotes Revelation 1:9 Some witnesses to the text read Christ. Revelation 1:9 A few witnesses to the text add Christ. Revelation 1:18 Greek hades #top .hr.hr-invisible.av-aocsdx-89cb4ca21532423cf697fc393b6fcee0{ height:10px; } The Holy Bible, Evangelical Heritage Version®, EHV®, © 2019 Wartburg Project, Inc. All rights reserved. #top .hr.hr-invisible.av-4vzadh-3f04b370105df1fd314a2a9d83e55b26{ height:50px; } Share this entryShare on FacebookShare on LinkedInShare by MailLink to FlickrLink to InstagramLink to Vimeo

(This podcast was previously published on January 30, 2021)   Jesus Ministries, Joan Boney  ...    We had no New Testament church until after Jesus was crucified.   Then the blood of Jesus became the sacrifice for our sins.   And after Jesus arose from the dead and was taken into heaven, then Jesus set up HIS church from heaven, calling and naming HIS ministers from heaven.   The apostle Paul was an example of this calling of a minister by Jesus from heaven.   Acts 26, Paul says to king Agrippa:   I heard a voice (from heaven) speaking to me in the Hebrew tongue.  15 I am Jesus whom thou persecutest. 16 But rise, and stand upon thy feet: for I have appeared unto thee for this purpose, to make thee a minister and a witness both of these things which thou hast seen, and of those things in the which I will appear unto thee;   Jesus, from heaven, sets HIS ministers into the New Testament church today just as HE did from heaven in the case of the apostle Paul.   After Jesus arose into heaven, HE (Jesus) gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;  For the perfecting of the saints for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:  (Ephesians 4:10-11)   And the New Testament Bible was given to the church from heaven as apostles were inspired by God to speak and write the books of the New Testament.   II Timothy 3:16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:   The early church had no New Testament Bible.  The apostles wrote on "parchments" and sent these letters to the churches in various cities and countries.  These letters became the "epistles" in the New Testament Bible as the instructions from God came to them.  They sent these epistles to be circulated among the various churches in their areas.   Colossians 4:16  And when this epistle is read among you, cause that it be read also in the church of the Laodiceans; and that ye likewise read the epistle from Laodicea.   So they passed these epistles, which we know today in the New Testament Bible, from church to church.   These writings were inspired by God just as God inspires us today to write the blog and to record the words presented on Podcasts.   Man does not appoint himself as a minister to the church.   All ministers (apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers) are called by Jesus from heaven and are lead by the Spirit of God in that which they speak to the church.   *****   In my life, the call of God came to me as God chose to transport me into heaven in the night as I was sleeping.   (This happened twice on two different nights as I slept)   I was "transported" into heaven in approximately 1975.   I was with God and Christ and the Holy Spirit.  (I saw no physical images.  It was a spiritual experience)  At that time I was "merged" into the body of Jesus, made one with the Word of God as God and the Holy Spirit witnessed.   The second time this happened was about two days after the first.   I didn't know what this meant.  I thought it happened to all persons who were born again.  Later I came to realize it did not happen to every member of the body of Christ.   I believe it was at this time, I was set into the ministry in the two offices appointed by Jesus:  apostle & prophet   For the next 4 years God taught me spiritual things from the Bible by HIS Spirit.   I was born again in 1975.  God put me on radio to exhort the church starting in January, 1980.    In between these years of 1975 and January, 1980, God was teaching me from the Bible, both Old and New Testaments, by HIS Spirit.   On the night of January 10, 1980, I was asleep in the night.  A very loud trumpet like voice spoke 3 words in my ear:  "Hartford, Seattle, KWJS"   KWJS was a radio station.   God told me to call the station manager.  I sent audition tape and was broadcasting exhortation to the church within 5 days.   By the end of the next year, I was on radio from "Hartford" to "Seattle".   Ministers are called by Jesus from heaven and set in the church today to do the work of the ministry.   Jesus communicates with me directly by the following:  thoughts brought by HIS Spirit, dreams, scriptures,   I Corinthians 12:4-6  Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit.   And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord.  And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all.   God calls HIS ministers and teaches them in various ways, but there is always a "call of God" on the life of that minister who is appointed by Jesus for the NT church.   But some ministers put themselves into the ministry by going to Bible college without having the call of God and these are "false teachers."   II Peter 2   1 But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction.   2 And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of.   3 And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not.   ***   Jude   3 Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints.   4 For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ.   They deny Jesus Christ by denying certain scriptures and by setting up another Jesus, another doctrine in the churches.   12-13  These are spots in your feasts of charity, when they feast with you, feeding themselves without fear: clouds they are without water, carried about of winds; trees whose fruit withereth, without fruit, twice dead, plucked up by the roots;   13 Raging waves of the sea, foaming out their own shame; wandering stars, to whom is reserved the blackness of darkness for ever.   16  These are murmurers, complainers, walking after their own lusts; and their mouth speaketh great swelling words, having men's persons in admiration because of advantage.   17 But, beloved, remember ye the words which were spoken before of the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ;   18 How that they told you there should be mockers (imitators/copiers) in the last time, who should walk after their own ungodly lusts.   19 These be they who separate themselves, sensual, having not the Spirit. ***   Jesus says:   Matthew 24   4 Take heed that no man deceive you.   5 For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many.  

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We learn from Jesus' letter to the "lukewarm" church

In this compelling sermon, we delve into the timeless lessons found in Revelation 3, specifically addressing the Church in Laodicea. Explore the themes of faithful witness, self-sufficiency, and how they resonate with us today. Discover the transformative power of embracing humility and dependence on Jesus, stepping away from self-reliance and into a life modeled after Christ's self-sacrifice. Join us as we examine what it truly means to find spiritual wealth and worth through the lens of the cross. This message will challenge and encourage you to realign your life with the kingdom of God, fostering deeper devotion and intentionality in your spiritual journey.Tune in now and let this message inspire and equip you to embrace a life of fruitful dependence and powerful witness for Jesus.Don't miss out—subscribe to our podcast for more inspiring sermons and insights each week. If this message blessed you, please consider leaving a review and sharing it with others who might benefit. Thank you for listening, and may your faith journey be enriched through our time together.

The church in Laodicea had everything—wealth, comfort, success—except real dependence on Jesus. Their self-sufficient, lukewarm faith pushed Jesus outside, knocking on the door of His own church. This message is a wake-up call to trade self-reliance for daily dependence on Christ and rediscover a faith that's truly alive.

SouthCrest Church Sunday message, 12/14/25. Our journey through the Bible is in Revelation 3:14-22 where we find the “lukewarm” church in Laodicea. Senior Pastor Matt McFadden uses the verses to help us understand that Jesus reproves and disciplines those He loves, and that we need to repent and turn back to Jesus.

Send us a textA single word from Revelation 3 lands like a thunderclap: lukewarm. We step into Laodicea's world and into our own, asking what Jesus means when He says He will “vomit” the uncommitted out of His mouth. From there, we follow the line from spiritual neutrality to diluted doctrine, examining how attempts to soften hard truths don't make the gospel kind—they make it weightless.We unpack the contrast between adiaphora—conscience matters like food, drink, and personal liberties—and a wicked indifference that dodges clear biblical lines. The conversation intensifies as we address the rising claim that annihilation is “good news.” If hell is merely nonexistence, what, exactly, did Jesus save us from? We contend that the eternal Son bore the weight of eternal judgment, and that His infinite worth reveals the gravity of sin and the necessity of repentance. Minimizing judgment doesn't magnify grace; it erases the need for it.Together with our panel, we explore why hot and cold are both useful, while lukewarm is rejected; how Laodicea's tepid water frames our usefulness; and why standing firm where Scripture is clear is an act of love, not harshness. Expect candid pushback, Scripture-driven clarity, and a call to trade comfort for conviction. If your faith has settled into safe neutrality, consider this a wake-up. Subscribe, share with a friend who needs courage to stand, and leave a review with your take: is annihilation compatible with the gospel?Support the showBE PROVOKED AND BE PERSUADED!

Send us a textStart with the hard question most avoid: if Scripture promises everlasting life, what does it mean when it warns of everlasting condemnation? We walk straight into the tension, tracing how the Bible frames death not as a stopped heartbeat, but as separation from God's favor. Using Luke 16 as a guide, we draw a crucial line between torture (unjust suffering) and torment (just judgment), and show how the gravity of sin magnifies the glory of Christ's salvation. If the penalty is small, the Cross is small; if the penalty is eternal, the Savior's worth shines with eternal weight.From there, we turn to Laodicea and the scandal of lukewarm faith. Christ's image is visceral for a reason: compromise makes Him sick. Lukewarmness isn't loud rebellion; it's mixed devotion—truth blended with worldliness and fashionable errors about resurrection, reincarnation, or annihilation. We challenge the easy branding of “Bible-believing church,” arguing that interpretation, not marketing, separates health from harm. Hermeneutics becomes the hinge: how we read Scripture determines how we live by it, especially on doctrines with eternal stakes like hell, salvation, and repentance.We also get practical and pastoral. A listener asks how to help people in deep despair without soft-pedaling the gospel. Our answer: God sends specific people to your path because your voice can carry His grace. Speak the unvarnished truth with the temperament He gave you, and trust results to Him. Seeds of hard truth often bloom years later. Finally, we parse the visible and invisible church to explain why Scripture can rebuke “churches” that include both wheat and tares. Revelation 3:19–20 is not a sales pitch to outsiders; it's a summons to professing believers to repent, be zealous, and stop living in the gray.If this conversation sharpened your convictions, share it with a friend, leave a review, and subscribe so you never miss an episode. Your support helps more listeners trade lukewarm comfort for wholehearted faith. Where do you need to take a stand today?Support the showBE PROVOKED AND BE PERSUADED!

Send us a textA hard warning can be a great mercy. We take a sober walk through Christ's words to the church of Laodicea and ask why lukewarm faith is so easy to adopt and so hard to detect. The picture of being “spit out” is graphic, but it clarifies what's at stake when devotion becomes performance and truth gets trimmed to avoid offense. We explore the difference between outward affiliation with Jesus and inward affection for Him, and why neutrality isn't compassion—it's concealment.Together we trace how self-sufficiency, comfort, and reputation can dull spiritual hunger. The conversation moves from Revelation to the full arc of the gospel: God's holiness, human sin, the reality of hell, and the necessity of repentance. We press into doctrines many avoid—depravity, grace, new birth by the Spirit—because people aren't spiritually sick but spiritually dead, and only Christ can make them alive. Along the way we call out trends that mimic zeal without love: church-bashing that never preaches Christ, platform-building that misleads crowds, and chameleon Christianity that blends into every room while the gospel loses its edge.We lean on a crucial hope: Christ rebukes those He loves. His sharp words are a surgeon's scalpel, meant to awaken zeal and heal what compromise has numbed. If you've settled for room-temperature religion, this is a call to trade safety for sincerity, optics for obedience, and comfort for a clear conscience before God. Listen, reflect, and share with someone who needs courage. If the message stirs you, subscribe, leave a review, and tell us where you've seen lukewarmness—and how you're choosing heat over haze today.Support the showBE PROVOKED AND BE PERSUADED!

Send us a textComfort can feel like blessing until Jesus calls it poverty. We take a hard look at the church in Laodicea from Revelation 3 and the modern habits that mirror it—equating status with favor, growth with health, and noise with worship. Together we unpack why Christ calls a self-assured community wretched, poor, blind, and naked, and how His remedy—refined gold, white garments, and eye salve—redefines success as tested faith, righteousness, and spiritual sight.The conversation traces a biblical thread through James, Timothy, and First John, warning against corrosive riches, false knowledge, and the sobering reality that many who “went out from us” were never of us. We explore Matthew Henry's piercing insight that lukewarmness is more offensive than honest coldness, because it masquerades as devotion while refusing surrender. A vivid metaphor carries the point home: the body expels what harms it. So does Christ with a faith that sickens His body—faith that plays both sides and calls compromise wisdom.We also sit with practical discipleship. Being a Christian is hard, often costly, and sometimes marked by suffering. Yet the path is clear: no shortcuts, no muted truth, no backdoor into heaven—only Christ on His terms. We talk about speaking when the Spirit prompts, ministering with presence, and trusting God to use ordinary obedience as an instrument of grace. A brief exchange on Solomon and vanity sharpens the call to zealous repentance that rejects shameless worldliness and embraces worship in spirit and truth.If this resonates, share it with someone who needs a wake-up call. Subscribe for thoughtful, Scripture-rich conversations, and leave a review to help others find the show. What's one area where you'll trade comfort for refined gold this week?Support the showBE PROVOKED AND BE PERSUADED!

The Dangers of Lukewarm FaithScripture: Revelation 3:16, “So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth.”In Revelation 3, Jesus spoke to the church of Laodicea. They weren't rebellious. They weren't wicked. They weren't enemies of God. They were simply… comfortable. Not cold toward God… but not burning for Him either. They were stuck in the middle.Accept Jesus Today: https://youtube.com/shorts/bIwAUlz7Kg4?si=BNOhv44iLWIR4eVJIf you would like to accept Jesus into your heart today, pray this simple prayer:****God, I have sinned against You. I believe that Jesus is Your Son, who died and rose for my sake. I ask you to forgive me for my sin. I place my trust in You for salvation. I receive you as my Lord and Savior. In Jesus' name, I am forgiven! Amen!"****Congratulations! You are now a child of the most high. John 1:12 says, But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God. If you just prayed this prayer to receive Jesus Christ as your Savior, I welcome you to the family of God. Subscribe to my channel and type in the comments right now, “I just prayed that prayer.” I would love to connect with you and chat with you about all the amazing things God is doing in your life.Click here for FREE eBook Download: https://tinyurl.com/ISAIDTHEPRAYERShow your love, support the channel:*PayPal: PayPal.me/malachimitchellministry*Cashapp: https://cash.app/$MalachiMitchNote Journals and Puzzles: https://tinyurl.com/WalkinFaithPublishingAuthored Books: https://tinyurl.com/BooksofMalachiJoin Our Support Club: https://tinyurl.com/Support-ClubInvesting Opportunity: https://coinholders.hnocoin.com/signup/?refer=Malachi2uFREE Ways to Support Me:

Reach Out: Please include your email and I will get back to you. Thanks!Revelation 3 Jesus continues His message to the churches, addressing Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea. To Sardis, He warns that they have a reputation for being alive but are actually spiritually dead. He calls them to wake up, strengthen what remains, and repent before He comes like a thief. To Philadelphia, He offers no rebuke but encourages them to hold fast, promising protection and honor for their faithfulness. He places before them an open door of opportunity for service that no one can shut. To Laodicea, He issues a stern warning, rebuking their lukewarm faith. He urges them to become zealous and repent. Though He stands at the door and knocks, He will only come in if invited. Each message ends with a promise to those who overcome, listening to the Spirit's wisdom.  We are called to examine the true state of our hearts. It is possible to appear strong in faith while drifting far from God. Jesus sees beyond our reputation and invites us to wake up, repent, and return to what is lasting. We must not settle for a lukewarm life. He desires that we walk in full devotion, not half-hearted belief. When we remain faithful, even with little strength, He opens doors that no one can close. We do not earn these promises, but we are invited to respond with faith and endurance. Jesus stands at the door, ready to come in. We must choose to listen, respond with humility, and walk in renewed fellowship with Him each day.  All-powerful God, You see us as we truly are. You know when we are strong, and You know when we have grown cold or distant. Thank You for sharing the power of Jesus and calling us to serve Him more faithfully. Wake us up when we become complacent. Give us courage to repent and strength to follow through. Help us not to live for appearances but to walk in genuine faith and devotion. When we feel weak, remind us that You are with us. May our hearts remain open to Your correction. Come close to us as we turn to You.  Thought Questions: What does it say to Jesus to want white garments in glory, but soil your garments in this life? Why must you choose holiness now? If your deeds are faithful, how might God open a door for you that no one can close? What does that mean, and has He already done so? What is “lukewarm”? Why does Jesus advise such a one to buy gold, garments, and eye salve from Him? What does He mean by that?

Hue concluded our series speaking about the church in Laodicea warning the church against complacency and becoming lukewarm.

Jesus entra cuando lo invitan I Salmo 24: 7 Hay puertas que solo se abren desde adentro. Puertas que no se fuerzan, no se empujan y no se derriban… se invitan a entrar. Así funciona Jesús. Él no irrumpe con violencia, no obliga, no presiona: Él toca. Él llama. Él espera.Apocalipsis 3:20 nos revela a un Cristo cercano, paciente, humilde y respetuoso del libre albedrío humano. Él está “a la puerta”, no lejos; “llama”, no guarda silencio; “habla”, no se desconecta. Pero la decisión final la tiene el hombre: “si alguno abre…”Este versículo no sólo fue un mensaje a la iglesia de Laodicea; es un mensaje eterno para cada vida, cada familia y cada corazón que hoy necesita una visita del Maestro. Jesús entra donde se le invita, permanece donde se le honra y obra donde se le da lugar.Vivimos días donde el orgullo, la rutina y el miedo nos impiden invitar a Dios a nuestras luchas. Sin embargo, la Biblia está llena de hombres y mujeres que sí le dijeron a Dios: “¡Entra a mi situación!”.1. “Invitar a Jesús abre la puerta al milagro”: Juan 2:1–2 “Fueron también invitados a las bodas Jesús y sus discípulos.”2. “Una casa que invita a Jesús se convierte en un refugio de Su presencia”: Lucas 10:38–42; Juan 12:1–33. “A veces Jesús se invita a sí mismo… porque sabe que lo necesitamos”: Lucas 19:1–104. “Cuando Jesús es invitado a una casa, Su poder transforma a todos los que viven allí”: Marcos 1: 29–31; Marcos 2:1–12Dios no impone su presencia, pero está llamando a tu puerta. ¿Lo invitarás a tu situación?

If you would like additional information, books, or if you would like to make a love donation; please visit us at https://www.walkinginpower.orgThis section continues the study of Revelation, focusing on resolving the confusion regarding the rapture's timing (pre-, mid-, or post-Tribulation) by exploring the likelihood of two raptures for two distinct groups of believers, represented by the churches of Philadelphia (fervent, Spirit-filled) and Laodicea (lukewarm). Bern reviews Revelation 3, noting that the open door promised to Philadelphia (verse 7) and the Lord standing at the door knocking for Laodicea (verse 20) are both metaphors for a rapture or entrance (Greek: thura), suggesting different outcomes for the two types of Christians. The "open door" for Philadelphia implies an escape from the "hour of testing" (Revelation 3:10), which is interpreted by pre-tribulationists as a complete removal from the earth, though Bern notes the Greek word (tēreō) means "to keep" or "protect," suggesting God could simply guard believers on Earth. Furthermore, Bern emphasizes Matthew 24:33, which in the original Greek is translated as "he is near, right at the doors (plural)," strongly implying the existence of multiple rapture events.The core issue addressed is whether believers will face God's judgment, the "Day of Wrath," during the seven-year Tribulation. Mid- and post-tribulation proponents argue the Tribulation is merely the wrath of Satan against the church. However, Bern refutes this by citing Revelation 6:12-17 (the Sixth Seal), which occurs early in the Tribulation and clearly states that the terrified people hide from the "wrath of the Lamb" (Jesus) and the "great day of their wrath." This establishes that God's wrath begins during the Tribulation, not just at the end. The final biblical defense for avoiding the Tribulation is drawn from Nahum 1:2, which states that God "reserves wrath for his enemies." Since genuine believers are not God's enemies, they are not appointed to His wrath, reinforcing the necessity of a first rapture for the faithful (Philadelphia Church) before the full outpouring of God's judgment. Bern notes the rapture itself will be incredibly swift, occurring in 1/100th of a second.

Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott StrickmanSermon Series: Maturing in ChristColossians 1:24-2:5 (ESV)24 Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake, and in my flesh I am filling up what is lacking in Christ's afflictions for the sake of his body, that is, the church, 25 of which I became a minister according to the stewardship from God that was given to me for you, to make the word of God fully known, 26 the mystery hidden for ages and generations but now revealed to his saints. 27 To them God chose to make known how great among the Gentiles are the riches of the glory of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. 28 Him we proclaim, warning everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone mature in Christ. 29 For this I toil, struggling with all his energy that he powerfully works within me.2:1 For I want you to know how great a struggle I have for you and for those at Laodicea and for all who have not seen me face to face, 2 that their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love, to reach all the riches of full assurance of understanding and the knowledge of God's mystery, which is Christ, 3 in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. 4 I say this in order that no one may delude you with plausible arguments. 5 For though I am absent in body, yet I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see your good order and the firmness of your faith in Christ.Sermon OutlineA life that deepens in Christ includes struggling (1:29-2:1) as part of the maturing process.1. Proclaiming Christ1:28 “ Him we proclaim…”2:2-3 “God's mystery, which is Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.”2. Suffering for Christ1:24 “Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake, and in my flesh I am filling up what is lacking in Christ's afflictions for the sake of his body, that is, the church”1:29 “For this I toil, struggling with all his energy that he powerfully works within me.”3. Maturing in Christv28 “…that we may present everyone mature in Christ.”v27 “this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.”Prayer of ConfessionOur great God, you have made available to us all the riches of wisdom and knowledge. Yet we have not trusted you, walked with you, or loved you. We confess our sins and turn to you for forgiveness. We have set our hearts on earthly treasures while neglecting the treasure of Christ. We have been more concerned with our bodies than with the body of Christ, your church. Comfort has been a greater priority than love for others. We have been childish, but not child-like. We thank you that through the remarkable love of Christ we have the hope of glory. Cleanse and renew us. Sustain us by the powerful working of your Spirit so that we have strength to walk in a manner worthy of Christ. Amen.Questions for ReflectionWhat forms of suffering do you assume are a normal part of life? What forms of suffering do you not understand, or leave you confused or make it difficult to believe in God?What encouragement can readers of Colossians take from the costly sufferings Paul endured in order to bring the gospel to us and to offer teaching and help?Why is it important to stay focused on Christ? What is challenging about remaining focused on Christ?How does a person “look to Christ”? What should you do?How can challenges push you grow? What kinds of trials should Christians expect to be part of their growing process?How can you draw from the power of God to be sustained when enduring difficulties?Is there anything you are doing or failing to do that is hindering your maturing in Christ? What can you start to do differently?

Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott StrickmanSermon Series: Maturing in ChristColossians 1:24-2:5 (ESV)24 Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake, and in my flesh I am filling up what is lacking in Christ's afflictions for the sake of his body, that is, the church, 25 of which I became a minister according to the stewardship from God that was given to me for you, to make the word of God fully known, 26 the mystery hidden for ages and generations but now revealed to his saints. 27 To them God chose to make known how great among the Gentiles are the riches of the glory of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. 28 Him we proclaim, warning everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone mature in Christ. 29 For this I toil, struggling with all his energy that he powerfully works within me.2:1 For I want you to know how great a struggle I have for you and for those at Laodicea and for all who have not seen me face to face, 2 that their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love, to reach all the riches of full assurance of understanding and the knowledge of God's mystery, which is Christ, 3 in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. 4 I say this in order that no one may delude you with plausible arguments. 5 For though I am absent in body, yet I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see your good order and the firmness of your faith in Christ.Sermon OutlineA life that deepens in Christ includes struggling (1:29-2:1) as part of the maturing process.1. Proclaiming Christ1:28 “ Him we proclaim…”2:2-3 “God's mystery, which is Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.”2. Suffering for Christ1:24 “Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake, and in my flesh I am filling up what is lacking in Christ's afflictions for the sake of his body, that is, the church”1:29 “For this I toil, struggling with all his energy that he powerfully works within me.”3. Maturing in Christv28 “…that we may present everyone mature in Christ.”v27 “this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.”Prayer of ConfessionOur great God, you have made available to us all the riches of wisdom and knowledge. Yet we have not trusted you, walked with you, or loved you. We confess our sins and turn to you for forgiveness. We have set our hearts on earthly treasures while neglecting the treasure of Christ. We have been more concerned with our bodies than with the body of Christ, your church. Comfort has been a greater priority than love for others. We have been childish, but not child-like. We thank you that through the remarkable love of Christ we have the hope of glory. Cleanse and renew us. Sustain us by the powerful working of your Spirit so that we have strength to walk in a manner worthy of Christ. Amen.Questions for ReflectionWhat forms of suffering do you assume are a normal part of life? What forms of suffering do you not understand, or leave you confused or make it difficult to believe in God?What encouragement can readers of Colossians take from the costly sufferings Paul endured in order to bring the gospel to us and to offer teaching and help?Why is it important to stay focused on Christ? What is challenging about remaining focused on Christ?How does a person “look to Christ”? What should you do?How can challenges push you grow? What kinds of trials should Christians expect to be part of their growing process?How can you draw from the power of God to be sustained when enduring difficulties?Is there anything you are doing or failing to do that is hindering your maturing in Christ? What can you start to do differently?

Dr. Smith concludes his series on the seven churches of Revelation, focusing on the church in Laodicea, which Jesus describes as lukewarm and repulsive. He emphasizes that this passage is often misinterpreted to mean that it is better to be lost than to be a lukewarm Christian. The real issue is that the Laodicean church lacks a genuine spiritual life and relies on external blessings as evidence of God's approval. They are self-deceived, thinking they are rich and need nothing, while in reality, they are wretched, poor, blind, and naked. Jesus urges them to seek true spiritual wealth, righteousness, and sight from Him. He encourages them to be zealous, repent, and open the door for Him to enter, promising that those who conquer will share His throne.

Dr. Smith concludes his series on the seven churches of Revelation, focusing on the church in Laodicea, which Jesus describes as lukewarm and repulsive. He emphasizes that this passage is often misinterpreted to mean that it is better to be lost than to be a lukewarm Christian. The real issue is that the Laodicean church lacks a genuine spiritual life and relies on external blessings as evidence of God's approval. They are self-deceived, thinking they are rich and need nothing, while in reality, they are wretched, poor, blind, and naked. Jesus urges them to seek true spiritual wealth, righteousness, and sight from Him. He encourages them to be zealous, repent, and open the door for Him to enter, promising that those who conquer will share His throne.

To The Church In Laodicea: When Jesus Knocks

If you would like additional information, books, or if you would like to make a love donation; please visit us at https://www.walkinginpower.org

Don't miss Part 3 of Pastor Brenda's dynamic series on the Seven Churches of Revelation! This session is packed with revelation, clarity, and powerful teaching you'll want to hear!

Today, pastor Ray Bentley explains why the church at lay on Laodicea was lukewarm. If we believe that Jesus is God manifest in the flesh, and he's in us and in our hearts and lives as a community, there should be evidence of something supernatural, which ultimately means changed lives. What it means is that earlier this year was a church that kept meeting, but nobody.

Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea. For more resources on reading through the Bible in a year, visit my church's website at this link or text us at 888-644-4034. God bless - Doyle See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

John is receiving direct revelation from Jesus Christ concerning what he should write to seven churches of his day. In our last episode we covered the churches at Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, and Thyatira. Today we'll cover the churches of Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea. Sardis was known for being alive in Christ, but in reality they were dead. The Lord discerns between those who have kept their way pure and those who have defiled themselves. The church in Philadelphia is commended for enduring in faithfulness even though they has but little power; to them belong the promise of a new Jerusalem. The church in Laodicea is compared to the luke-warm water that was piped into the city: neither cold and refreshing nor hot and therapeutic. Their riches had deceived them into thinking they didn't need to rely on the Lord. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

The complete collection of The 7 Churches Podcast with Donnie Scarlett. Listen from Ephesus all the way to Laodicea as the Lord speaks to his church. Listen closely and see if you can catch the easter eggs from the audio design of this podcast!

Today. Pastor Ray Bentley on Jesus words to the church at Laodicea. I wish that you were either hot, passionate, on fire, in love with me, or I wish that you were like Colossae, where the mountain waters are so fresh and they're cold. I want my church to either be cold and refreshing or hot and healing. But you are neither.

Series: SEVEN

November 16, 2025 http://theanchor.church https://www.instagram.com/theanchorchurch/ https://www.facebook.com/TheAnchorChurch

Message from Kyle Burkholder on November 30, 2025

What if God wants to do it again—moving in power just as He did in the early church? In Acts 19:9–10 we read that “all the residents of Asia heard the word of the Lord.” What began in a lecture hall in Ephesus spread across an entire region. Revival did not stay small. It multiplied. In this message, Pastor Dustin calls us to believe for that same move of God in our generation. This message connects Scripture, prophetic invitation, and the biblical vision of unity—from ancient Asia Minor (Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, Laodicea) to what God is doing in the church today. WHY THIS MATTERS Unity does not erase differences; it dignifies them. Unity is not everyone doing the same thing; it is everyone moving in the same direction. When the church aligns with the heart of Jesus, revival becomes unstoppable. SCRIPTURE REFERENCES • Acts 19:9–10 — The gospel spreading across Asia • John 17:20–21 — Jesus' prayer for unity • Acts 2:1 — One place, one purpose, one Spirit

I. Introduction: The Word and the theme “Wake Up” Exaltation of the Bible as the believer's foundation over feelings or worship experiences.​ Personal stories about people falling asleep in church and a college roommate's alarm to introduce the “wake up” motif.​ Transition from physical sleep to the real concern: spiritual sleep.​ II. Main Text: Romans 13:11–14 Reading and emphasizing Paul's call to “awake out of sleep” because salvation is nearer than when believers first believed.​ Call to cast off works of darkness, put on the armor of light, walk properly, and “put on the Lord Jesus Christ,” making no provision for the flesh.​ III. Paul's Three Challenges A. Be aware of the times Explanation of “high time” as a critical, urgent moment requiring spiritual discernment.​ Biblical examples: Jerusalem missing its “time of visitation” in Luke 19; churches of Ephesus (lost first love) and Laodicea (lukewarm).​ Need for discernment of seasons (sowing vs. reaping), people, political and social issues, illustrated by the tribe of Issachar (understanding of the times).​ Description of last days from 2 Timothy 3 (lovers of self, money, pleasure, form of godliness without power), applied to modern culture and social media.​ B. Awake out of spiritual sleep Warning that Christians can be physically awake but spiritually asleep, citing Ephesians 5:14.​ Signs of spiritual slumber: indifference to Bible, preaching, giving, serving, holiness; callousness and hardness of heart.​ Testimony of a church member who realized he had been spiritually asleep, plus repeated calls: “Wake up the mighty men/women” (Joel 3:9).​ Example of Samson: great anointing lost after being lulled to sleep by Delilah, leading to loss of sight, power, and discernment; warning from 1 Peter 5:8 to be sober and vigilant.​ C. Be arrayed in the armor of light Explanation of “arrayed” as putting on, dressing, and clothing oneself with Christ and His righteousness.​ Pastoral explanation of preaching strongly against sin out of love and responsibility to proclaim the whole counsel of God.​ IV. Six Sins to “Put Off” (from Romans 13) Revelry and drunkenness Defined as wild parties, nightclubs, casinos; warning that alcohol and exposed flesh create moral danger.​ Strong appeal against social drinking and minimizing drunkenness, noting family damage caused by alcohol.​ Licentiousness and lewdness Defined as sexual immorality and debauchery; teaching that sex is for the marriage covenant only.​ Condemnation of fornication, adultery, pornography, and cohabitation outside marriage, with logical and biblical arguments.​ Strife and envy Mentioned with the other sins as attitudes and behaviors that must be cast off to walk properly.​ V. Biblical Foundation for Repentance and Transformation Reading of 1 Corinthians 6:9–11: list of sins (fornication, idolatry, adultery, homosexuality, drunkenness, etc.) that exclude from God's kingdom, followed by hope in being washed, sanctified, and justified.​ Emphasis that no sin is beyond God's power to forgive and transform, but believers must repent and turn from it.​ VI. “Put on the Lord Jesus Christ” and Make No Provision for the Flesh Definition of “make provision” as providing, accommodating, or facilitating opportunities for the flesh.​ Practical applications: avoid drinkers if prone to alcohol, remove pay‑per‑view if struggling with lust, avoid gossipers if prone to gossip, do not attach to those who tear down leadership.​ Specific rebukes: dating couples sharing hotel rooms or apartments, “playing house” for financial or convenience reasons; teaching that this is tempting the flesh and violates holiness.​ Illustration: not climbing through “dumpsters of sin” while wearing Christ's clean garments.​ VII. Call to Response and Revival Allegorical story of Satan's convention: demons decide the best strategy is to tell people there is time, lulling them into delay and spiritual sleep.​ Final threefold call: Be aware of the time. Awake out of sleep. Be arrayed in the armor of Christ.​ Appeal for repentance, surrender, and practical steps (e.g., separating, seeking counseling, getting properly married) as evidence of true obedience and not “cheap grace.”​ Invitation to the altar for all, noting both obvious and hidden sins, and insistence that the gospel is about change, new life, and ongoing dependence on the Holy Spirit.

Church #7: The Letter to the Church of Laodicea. Donnie's seventh and final church was Zion Hill Baptist Church and just like Laodicea they were lukewarm chuches that God spit out of his mouth.

To the church in Laodicea, Jesus presents himself as the only true source that guarantees the good life. He then calls out his church for attempting to secure the good life with their own resources. As such, Jesus exhorts his church to receive from him the resources they need for the good life. Lastly, Jesus reassures his church that they will truly live the good life as they enjoy rich fellowship with him.

Revelation 3:14-22To the Church in Laodicea[14] “And to the angel of the church in Laodicea write: ‘The words of the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of God's creation.[15] “‘I know your works: you are neither cold nor hot. Would that you were either cold or hot! [16] So, because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth. [17] For you say, “I am rich, I have prospered, and I need nothing,” not realizing that you are wretched, pitiable, poor, blind, and naked. [18] I counsel you to buy from me gold refined by fire, so that you may be rich, and white garments so that you may clothe yourself and the shame of your nakedness may not be seen, and salve to anoint your eyes, so that you may see. [19] Those whom I love, I reprove and discipline, so be zealous and repent. [20] Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me. [21] The one who conquers, I will grant him to sit with me on my throne, as I also conquered and sat down with my Father on his throne. [22] He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.'” (ESV)

Pastor Ty Neal Big Idea: Jesus can change the temperature. Revelation 3:142 Corinthians 1:18-20Revelation 3:15Revelation 3:16Revelation 3:17 Misunderstand Wealth: I am rich Matthew 19:24 Wrong Standards: I have prospered Matthew 16:24-26 Lost Dependence: I need nothing Revelation 3:17 I would like to buy $3 worth of God, please. Not enough to explode my soul or disturb my sleep, but just enough to equal a cup of warm milk or a snooze in the sunshine. I don't want enough of God

“Salute the brethren which are in Laodicea, and Nymphas, and the church which is in his house.” (Colossians 4:15) Some Pauline epistles, which included the letter to the church at Colossae,... More...

Wednesday Service | A teaching on Revelation 2 & 3 with Pastor Josh BlackVictory Calvary Chapel is a church in Menifee, California. We gather for Jesus, to worship Him, to follow Him, and represent Him wherever we go. To learn more, visit us at www.victorycc.com.

Send us a textA quiet country church. A knock on the side door. And a question that won't leave us alone: what if Jesus is outside, patiently waiting to be invited in? In this episode I share something a bit different; a guest sermon I gave at our church a few weeks ago to help fill in for our pastor. After a brief farm and family update, we will listen to my sermon on Revelation 3:14–22, the letter to Laodicea, to explore the uneasy distance between liking Jesus and actually following him.We unpack why Scripture calls lukewarm faith nauseating and why hot and cold are both images of usefulness—healing warmth and refreshing cool—while room temperature blends into its surroundings. With Laodicea's banking, textiles, and eye salve as backdrop, we trace Jesus' piercing diagnosis of self-satisfied religion and his generous prescription: gold refined by fire, white garments of righteousness, and salve for true sight. Along the way, we talk about real-life patterns that pull us toward comfort—people-pleasing, hurry, and performative faith—and simple, costly habits that reverse the drift: unhurried Scripture, honest prayer, confession, reconciling conversations, generous service, and witness that changes the room.The heart of the message is not shame but invitation. Those Jesus loves, he disciplines. He stands at the door and knocks, not with a battering ram, but with patient mercy, promising table fellowship to any who open, even if the whole room isn't ready. We offer practical next steps to move from thermometer to thermostat, including one action this week that costs something and proves what we value. If you've felt “fine” yet fruitless, this conversation will help you trade comfort for a living, useful faith that leaves a holy mark on your family, church, and community.If this resonates, subscribe, share with a friend, and tell us: what door will you open to Jesus this week? Your story might encourage someone else to turn the knob.Send your thoughts and questions to noah@redeemingthedirt.comSupport the show

This conversation peels back the glossy veneer on modern church culture and asks what Jesus actually had in mind. We talk megachurch money, the “business model” of religion, and whether tithing-as-law was ever the point. Amy unpacks the influencer pastor era, the pressure-cooker system that breeds burnout, and why Acts-style fellowship (shared tables, rotating teachers, real accountability) still works. We compare Sunday stage shows to small, Spirit-led communities and ask if the apostles would even recognize our churches. From Laodicea warnings to Watchman Nee–style generosity, we press into discipleship over attendance. It's frank, hopeful, and aimed at reform from the inside out with one of our favorite guests- Amy from Eyes on the Right podcast!Amy's Counseling Website: https://www.biblicalguidancecounseling.com/Amy's Podcast Same Topic: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-mega-church-money-machine/id1692081180?i=1000716256160*Catch This Must-Watch Docuseries : https://www.thereligionbusiness.com/purchase/AMYW36*IG: eyesontherighpodcast & eyesontheright4.0https://www.unrefinedpodcast.com +Timestamps:00:01:00 Exposing the business of Christianity00:02:47 Mention of “The Religious Business” documentary00:05:08 Heart posture vs church consumerism00:07:29 Institutional systems and fallen influence00:09:42 Pastoral pressure and spiritual burnout00:11:56 Success measured by butts in pews00:14:23 What is church? The body of Christ00:16:42 Pedestal pastors and misplaced focus00:18:59 Shared teaching and authentic leadership00:21:25 Comparing Acts church to modern models00:22:05 Tithing vs New Covenant generosity00:24:32 Giving as worship and heart posture00:26:45 Generosity, reaping, and sowing in faith00:29:05 Can the megachurch model be redeemed?00:31:22 Laodicea church and spiritual blindness00:33:43 House church rhythm and online fellowship00:36:03 Would the apostles recognize our churches?00:38:19 One-anothering and real fellowship00:40:41 Why recovery groups feel like real church00:43:07 Transparency, confession, and authentic ministry00:45:26 Amy's story — “Get up” and walk again00:47:46 Prayer for the church and believers00:49:53 Guest plugs and final thoughtschurch reform, megachurch culture, prosperity gospel, tithing debate, modern Christianity, church business, religious institutions, discipleship, Acts church, house church, faith and money, church accountability, spiritual authenticity, pastoral burnout, influencer pastors, transparency, corporate Christianity, biblical generosity, Laodicea church, religious corruption, faith over fame, gospel integrity, consumer Christianity, spiritual reformation, faith community, worship culture, religious hypocrisy, Holy Hustle, Christian leadership, church finance, heart posture, revival vs revenue, kingdom mindset, body of Christ, church manipulation, spiritual discernment, modern faith crisis, Christian culture critique, Unrefined Podcast, Eyes on the Right

On last week’s podcast, I discussed my deportation from Egypt to Istanbul. This week we continue in Turkey, visiting the Seven Churches of Revelation. Today's show begins with a look at modern-day Laodicea, and a short talk I gave yesterday in the heart of old Ephesus. Unbeaten: My Arrest, Interrogation, and Deportation from China - Unbeaten.vip Pray for China (Nov 10-16): https://chinacall.substack.com/p/pray-for-china-nov-10-16-2025 The second half of the show is a detailed look at this week's Pray for China (PrayforChina.us) cities, with a number of stories and details along the way, including my first night alone on the streets of China (Alien China), being confronted by the police during a casual lunch (CCP Warnings), and China's border with North Korea (NK Spy Balloons). Two North Korea Stories: https://www.dw.com/en/north-korean-man-makes-rare-direct-land-crossing-to-south/a-73150358 https://www.nationalgeographic.com/history/article/balloon-propaganda-campaign-korea Follow me on Twitter/X (@chinaadventures) where I post new/unique Chinese city prayer profiles every single day. Also, you can email me any questions or comments (bfwesten at gmail dot com) and find everything else, including my books, at PrayGiveGo.us!

The book of Revelation issues a call to be faithful. Yet not all of its first readers heeded that call. Today, W. Robert Godfrey contrasts Jesus' last two letters to the churches in Revelation, urging us to hear our Lord's warnings. For your donation of any amount, get W. Robert Godfrey's video teaching series Blessed Hope: The Book of Revelation. You'll receive the series on DVD, plus lifetime digital access to all 24 messages and the study guide: https://gift.renewingyourmind.org/4344/offer   Live outside the U.S. and Canada? Request digital access to the video teaching series and study guide with your donation: https://www.renewingyourmind.org/global   Meet Today's Teacher:   W. Robert Godfrey is a Ligonier Ministries teaching fellow and chairman of Ligonier Ministries. He is president emeritus and professor emeritus of church history at Westminster Seminary California.   Meet the Host:   Nathan W. Bingham is vice president of media for Ligonier Ministries, executive producer and host of Renewing Your Mind, and host of the Ask Ligonier podcast. Renewing Your Mind is a donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts