Podcasts about Laodicea

Sunday Service: Laodicea, a wealthy and self-sufficient city known for its banking, textiles, and medical advancements, had allowed its prosperity to blind it to its need for God. Jesus, identifying Himself as the Amen—the fulfillment of God's promises and the beginning of God's new family—reminded them that everything centers on Him, not their riches. Using the city's lukewarm water supply as an illustration, He exposed how their faith had become useless—neither refreshing like cold water nor healing like hot, but corrupted by pride and self-reliance. Unlike other churches, Laodicea received no praise, only rebuke, for their love of money had displaced their love for God, echoing the warnings given to Israel and the lesson of the rich young ruler. Jesus called them to trade worldly wealth for spiritual riches, to put on the white garment of salvation, and to see clearly through His truth rather than through the blindness of prosperity. Though they had shut Him out, His discipline proved His love, and He stood ready to reenter if they repented and invited Him back in. This warning extended beyond Laodicea, reminding all believers that salvation requires ongoing faithfulness, dependence on Christ alone, and a refusal to let wealth or self-sufficiency replace devotion to Him. Partner with Us: https://churchforentrepreneurs.com/partner Connect with Us: https://churchforentrepreneurs.com                  

To the church in Laodicea…

Click here for the DRB Daily Sign Up form! TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: Ezekiel 4-7; Revelation 3 Click HERE to give! Get Free App Here! One Year Bible Podcast: Join Hunter and Heather Barnes on 'The Daily Radio Bible' for a daily 20-minute spiritual journey. Engage with scripture readings, heartfelt devotionals, and collective prayers that draw you into the heart of God's love. Embark on this year-long voyage through the Bible, and let each day's passage uplift and inspire you. TODAY'S EPISODE:  Welcome to the Daily Radio Bible, where we journey through the Scriptures together, one day at a time. In today's episode, host Hunter invites us to reflect on the 29th day of August—day 242 in our year-long adventure through the Bible. We are guided through powerful and sobering passages from Ezekiel chapters 4 to 7, as well as Revelation chapter 3, encountering vivid images of prophetic warnings, judgment, and the enduring invitation of Christ. Hunter brings these ancient words into the present, drawing out profound truths about our need for spiritual sight, the dangers of misplaced security, and the heart of Jesus, who stands outside the door—always knocking, always inviting us back into fellowship. Through readings, reflection, and heartfelt prayers, this episode encourages us to recognize when we have pushed Jesus aside, and to respond to His persistent love with open hearts. So grab your Bible, settle in, and let's enter God's Word together with open minds and receptive spirits. TODAY'S DEVOTION: He stands at the door and knocks. In this vision given to John, we meet Jesus outside the door of the church in Laodicea—the door closed from the inside by those who were content with their own riches and self-sufficiency. Success and comfort had replaced their need for the Savior. They said, “I am rich. I have everything I want. I don't need a thing.” But in reality, their wealth had blinded them to their need. Instead of living in the fullness of Christ, they were poor, blind, and exposed. It's a stark warning, not just for churches, but for each one of us. The seduction of self-reliance, of valuing our own achievements or resources, quietly ushers Jesus out of the center of our lives and our communities. We imagine that we are thriving, but we have substituted what is truly life for something far less—a life apart from Christ. But the beauty of this passage is the persistence of Jesus. He doesn't give up on the church, and he doesn't give up on any of us. Even after being left outside, he doesn't turn away or condemn. He stands at the door and knocks, inviting us to open up—to let him in, to sit down and share a meal with him as friends. His invitation calls us out of our delusions of sufficiency and into the rich, abundant union that only he can give. He wants to open our eyes—so that we see the depth of our need and the greatness of his love. He stands ready to meet us, even when we have shut him out. So if you sense there's a door in your life, your heart, or your community that you've closed to Jesus, hear his knocking. Heed his invitation to return. Let him in, so that you may receive the true riches of his presence, the fullness of life found in him. That's a prayer I have for my own soul. That's a prayer I have for my family, for my wife and my daughters and my son. And that's a prayer I have for you. May it be so. TODAY'S PRAYERS: Lord God Almighty and everlasting father you have brought us in safety to this new day preserve us with your Mighty power that we might not fall into sin or be overcome by adversity. And in all we do, direct us to the fulfilling of your purpose  through Jesus Christ Our Lord amen.   Oh God you have made of one blood all the peoples of the earth and sent your blessed son to preach peace to those who are far and those who are near. Grant that people everywhere may seek after you, and find you. Bring the nations into your fold, pour out your Spirit on all flesh, and hasten the coming of your kingdom through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.   And now Lord,  make me an instrument of your peace.  Where there is hatred let me sow love. Where there is injury, pardon.  Where there is doubt, faith. Where there is despair, hope.  Where there is darkness, light.  And where there is sadness,  Joy.  Oh Lord grant that I might not seek to be consoled as to console. To be understood as to understand, to be loved as to love.  For it is in the giving that we receive, in the pardoning that we are pardoned, it is in the dying that we are born unto eternal life.  Amen And now as our Lord has taught us we are bold to pray... Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our tresspasses as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not unto temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the Kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. Loving God, we give you thanks for restoring us in your image. And nourishing us with spiritual food, now send us forth as forgiven people, healed and renewed, that we may proclaim your love to the world, and continue in the risen life of Christ.  Amen.  OUR WEBSITE: www.dailyradiobible.com We are reading through the New Living Translation.   Leave us a voicemail HERE: https://www.speakpipe.com/dailyradiobible Subscribe to us at YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Dailyradiobible/featured OTHER PODCASTS: Listen with Apple Podcast DAILY BIBLE FOR KIDS DAILY PSALMS DAILY PROVERBS DAILY LECTIONARY DAILY CHRONOLOGICAL  

Sunday Pastor Rick Barnett 8/24/2025

Are we ready to receive the one who knocks on the door? And is what we serve hot, cold, or lukewarm? Join us for the message “Apocalypse (Right) Now: Laodicea.”

Send us a textThe wealthy church of Laodicea presents a cautionary tale for believers today. After surviving a devastating earthquake, this prosperous community proudly refused Rome's financial assistance, declaring "we can handle this ourselves." This spirit of self-sufficiency had seeped into their spiritual lives, creating a dangerous disconnect between perception and reality. While they saw themselves as "rich and prosperous, needing nothing," Christ diagnosed them as "wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked."Many scholars identify our current era as the "Laodicean age" of church history. Though not all congregations fall into this category, those in prosperous Western nations face unique spiritual dangers. As we explore in this episode, prosperity can destroy our spiritual lives faster than poverty – a truth King David understood when he prayed for neither too much wealth (lest he forget God) nor too little (lest he be driven to sin). Even more alarming is the prophecy that the Antichrist will use prosperity as a weapon of destruction.Yet Christ's message doesn't end with rebuke. "Those whom I love, I reprove and discipline," He assures before offering one of scripture's most beautiful invitations: "Behold, I stand at the door and knock." This image of Christ seeking fellowship around a meal speaks to His desire for genuine relationship, not mere religious observance. The letter concludes with an astonishing promise that transforms rebuke into hope: "The one who conquers, I will grant him to sit with me on my throne."Are you struggling with lukewarm faith? Open the door to Christ's knock today and experience the genuine fellowship He offers to all who have "ears to hear what the Spirit says to the churches."Support the show

La complacencia no es comodidad, es falta de compromisoSerie: La complacencia mata (3 de 5)Jueces 13–16 | Apocalipsis 3:15–17 | Romanos 13:11–12La complacencia parece inofensiva, pero es un enemigo silencioso que apaga el llamado de Dios en nuestras vidas.Sansón pensó que todavía tenía fuerzas, pero ya las había perdido.Laodicea creyó que estaba bien, pero se volvió tibia.Ester casi guarda silencio, pero entendió que su momento era ahora.Este mensaje es una llamada de atención: el tiempo se acaba, despierta y reaviva el fuego de tu propósito antes de que sea demasiado tarde. “La comodidad mata; el compromiso te bendice.”Acompáñanos en este mensaje lleno de esperanza y verdad.Suscríbete al canal y comparte este video con alguien que lo necesite.#cfcmd #pastoresphipps #yendyphipps #LaComplacenciaMata

Rocco Collucci, Revelation Letters - Laodicea by Terrill Road Bible Chapel

Laodicea was a materially rich but spiritually bankrupt city. This week, Ps Dan continues our series ‘Letters to the Church' as we study the final letter which was written to Laodicea. Laodicea's belief that they were self-sufficient led to their indifference and lukewarm spirituality.

Listen to a powerful message of hope from Ps Luke de Jong (Senior Leader) as we explore the letter to the church of Laodicea, as seen in Revelation 3. Living a lukewarm life seems comfortable and easy, but in reality true identity and freedom can only be found in following God's ways. _To find out more about LIFE, visit us at lifenz.org

REVELATION IS NOT A SCARY BOOK…IF YOU ARE A BELIEVER…CHRIST REVEALS TO US WHO HE IS…IN ALL OF HIS GLORY…HE REVEALS TO US HOW IT ALL ENDS…AND WE WIN! WHEN LIFE GETS TOUGH…AND YOU DON'T KNOW WHAT TO DO…DO WHAT YOU KNOW TO DO…BECAUSE YOU KNOW THAT CHRIST IS ORCHESTRATING IT! Revelation 1:9-11 ESV I, John, your brother and partner in the tribulation and the kingdom and the patient endurance that are in Jesus, was on the island called Patmos on account of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus. [10] I was in .the Spirit on the Lord's day, and I heard behind me a loud voice like a trumpet [11] saying, "Write what you see in a book and send it to the seven churches, to Ephesus and to Smyrna and to Pergamum and to Thyatira and to Sardis and to Philadelphia and to Laodicea." YOU DON'T HAVE TO KNOW WHAT CHRIST IS ORCHESTRATING…YOU JUST HAVE TO KNOW CHRIST! Revelation 1:12-20 ESV Then I turned to see the voice that was speaking to me, and on turning I saw seven golden lampstands, [13] and in the midst of the lampstands one like a son of man, clothed with a long robe and with a golden sash around his chest. [14] The hairs of his head were white, like white wool, like snow. His eyes were like a flame of fire, [15] his feet were like burnished bronze, refined in a furnace, and his voice was like the roar of many waters. [16] In his right hand he held seven stars, from his mouth came a sharp two-edged sword, and his face was like the sun shining in full strength. [17] When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. But he laid his right hand on me, saying, "Fear not, I am the first and the last, [18] and the living one. I died, and behold I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of Death and Hades. [19] Write therefore the things that you have seen, those that are and those that are to take place after this. [20] As for the mystery of the seven stars that you saw in my right hand, and the seven golden lampstands, the seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands are the seven churches. WHEN LIFE GETS TOUGH…AND YOU DON'T KNOW WHAT TO DO…DO WHAT YOU KNOW TO DO…BECAUSE YOU KNOW THAT CHRIST IS ORCHESTRATING IT! YOU DON'T HAVE TO KNOW WHAT CHRIST IS ORCHESTRATING…YOU JUST HAVE TO KNOW CHRIST! DO YOU KNOW CHRIST?

What does it mean to be a lukewarm Christian? Are lukewarm Christians even Christians? Join us today as we learn from the Church of Laodicea how Jesus feels about those who sit on the fence without taking their faith seriously.

What does it mean to be a lukewarm Christian? Are lukewarm Christians even Christians? Join us today as we learn from the Church of Laodicea how Jesus feels about those who sit on the fence without taking their faith seriously.

Lukewarmness isn't neutral—it's dangerous and spiritually misleading. Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar examine the powerful message to the church in Laodicea and encourage believers to examine their hearts. Has your passion diminished? In Revelation, Christ rebukes a self-reliant church that no longer depends on Him for strength or purpose. The call isn't about striving more. It's about surrender, trust, and returning to intimacy with the Lord who pursues us.The guys explain how Laodicea's water supply often arrived lukewarm, making it unfit for drinking. That same unpleasant temperature reflected the church's spiritual condition and lack of power. Lukewarm water, like lukewarm faith, served no purpose. It symbolized a church that had lost its spiritual vitality and didn't even realize it. They explore how the church is called to be salt and light, a shining source of hope and truth in a dark, dying world. That mission requires zeal, not apathy or self-confidence. Good works don't save, but they are the fruit of saving grace and evidence of transformed hearts. We are His workmanship, created in Christ for good works that bring Him glory. True zeal isn't about chaos or hype; it's steady, humble obedience flowing from a heart filled with gratitude for the gospel and shaped by the Word.Mark reflects on how God speaks to the heart, not through empty words or outward performance. Lip service doesn't move Him. It's in real, desperate prayer and sincere repentance that transformation occurs. Repentance is sweet, hope-filled, and full of promise. It's not about guilt; it's about turning fully toward Christ with open hands. Ray shares how, as a new believer, he was consumed with a desire to share the gospel with everyone around him. That same fire is available to all of us who ask.Zeal is contagious. When believers live fully devoted to Christ, the lives around them are changed. Many hesitate to apply that same passion to their faith. Some believers go all in for hobbies and careers, but when it comes to eternity, they pull back. The Christian life isn't easy or casual. It demands endurance, discipline, and spiritual awareness. Christians must be grounded in Scripture, guided by truth, and surrounded by people who speak life into their walk. Oscar brings it back to Revelation. Salvation is not earned. It's a gift of grace through faith alone. When you truly see the beauty of God's mercy, your affections are reshaped, and zeal becomes the natural response. Christ is worthy of your whole life—every moment, every heartbeat, every ounce of devotion you have to give.Send us a textThanks for listening! If you've been helped by this podcast, we'd be grateful if you'd consider subscribing, sharing, and leaving us a comment and 5-star rating! Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!You can find helpful counseling resources at biblicalcounseling.com.Check out The Evidence Study Bible and the Basic Training Course.You can connect with us at podcast@livingwaters.com. We're thankful for your input!Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.Ray ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro

Revelation chapters 2–3 contain seven distinct messages from Christ to churches in Asia Minor, each revealing the spiritual condition of the community and calling them to greater faithfulness. Ephesus is praised for doctrinal vigilance but rebuked for losing its first love. Smyrna is commended for enduring persecution and encouraged to remain faithful unto death. Pergamum holds fast to Christ's name yet compromises with false teachings. Thyatira shows love and perseverance but tolerates corrupt influence. Sardis has a reputation for life but is spiritually dead, needing to wake up and strengthen what remains. Philadelphia, though weak, is faithful and receives no rebuke—only encouragement and promise. Laodicea is lukewarm and self-sufficient, blind to its need for repentance and renewal. Across all letters, Christ offers both warning and hope, urging each church to overcome and promising eternal rewards to those who do. These messages speak not only to ancient congregations but to every community seeking to remain faithful amid pressure, compromise, and spiritual fatigue.

Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar unpack Christ's sobering message to the church in Laodicea, highlighting the real danger of lukewarm faith and spiritual self-reliance. Drawing from Revelation, they explain how the church had lost its dependence on God, becoming ineffective—much like the lukewarm water brought into Laodicea that was neither refreshing nor healing. The guys challenge listeners to examine their hearts and consider whether their passion for the Lord has faded. They emphasize that true zeal doesn't come from emotional hype or outward performance, but from a heart transformed by grace and marked by steady, grateful obedience. The church is called to be salt and light in a dark and broken world, and that calling requires repentance, humility, and a return to intimacy with Christ. When believers grasp the depth of God's mercy, their affections are rearranged, and zeal becomes the natural, joy-filled response. Christ isn't asking for part of our lives; He's worthy of it all.Send us a textThanks for listening! If you've been helped by this podcast, we'd be grateful if you'd consider subscribing, sharing, and leaving us a comment and 5-star rating! Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!You can find helpful counseling resources at biblicalcounseling.com.Check out The Evidence Study Bible and the Basic Training Course.You can connect with us at podcast@livingwaters.com. We're thankful for your input!Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.Ray ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro

Sunday Pastor Rick Barnett 8/17/2025

Today we look at the last letter to the seven churches and we see the warning that Jesus gives the church of Laodicea. It's a warning to stop living lukewarm for Jesus and instead choose to respond to His invitation. For more information on The Gathering, check out our website thegathering.online  

Jesus threatens the lukewarm church of Laodicea that they will not be embraced by him unless they become zealous for him and repent! Our students need this warning and rebuke today!

Pastor Phil Sparling - A Church Like That! - Weekend Sermon Podcast - www.auburngrace.com

What does it mean when God grants us grace? It's not something He owes us, as if we earned it. Why would God want to care for sinful humanity? Hear what Gary Little, one the GPC Elders, has to say as he digs into the Apostle Paul's greeting to the Christian church in Ephesus as well as Christ's admonition to the church in Laodicea.

SE7EN CHURCHES OF REVELATION - Revelation 2-3 DOWNLOAD the Prodigal Church app for more! FIND US ONLINE: prodigalchurchfresno.com If you're new, we would love to meet you! Fill the online connect card on our website and we will reach out to you. prodigalchurchfresno.com/connect INSTAGRAM: @prodigalchurchfresno FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/prodigalchurchfresno If you would like to Give to Prodigal Church, you can do so through our website, or through this link. Thank you so much for your generosity to Prodigal Church! prodigal.givingfire.com

Chris goes through Revelation 3 to show how much Jesus calls out the apathetic church and what to do about it. Verse by verse with the take away being a better understanding of yourself. 

Revelation 3:14-22Bro. Tom CurryMusic: https://www.bensound.com/free-music-for-youtube-videos

SÁBADO 9 DE AGOSTO DE 2025 TU DOSIS DIARIA DE ESPERANZA “He aquí, yo estoy a la puerta y llamo; si alguno oye mi voz y abre la puerta, entraré a él, y cenaré con él, y él conmigo.” (Apocalipsis 3:20) El corazón de los cristianos de la Iglesia de Laodicea se había vuelto tibio. Después de amonestarlos, el Señor busca restaurar sus corazones. Nunca entrará a un corazón forzándolo. Él toca y deben abrirle. Su amor por su Iglesia es permanente; de ahí que, ya sea en lo personal o no, si estamos en una situación de tibieza espiritual, el Señor quiere hablar con nosotros. Tocar a la puerta es tocar el corazón y renovar lo que por alguna causa se desvió de la pasión inicial. Él nos toca por medio de un hermano; por medio de nuestros pastores; de un texto bíblico; pero siempre esperando que deseemos ser receptivos a su deseo de levantarnos. La Mesa significa “intimidad”. Él nunca nos avergonzará. Abramos nuestros corazones a su presencia. (Gina Sánchez) -- Te damos la bienvenida a nuestras reflexiones diarias. Cada día leemos y meditamos en una porción bíblica, para encontrar revelación de Dios que encamine nuestros pasos y haga próspero nuestro camino. Esto es… DE DIOS, PARA TI, HOY. ....... http://www.findnewhope.com/nueva-esperanza ....... www.facebook.com/PastoresRobertoyYamiley ....... Pastores Roberto y Yamiley, De Dios Para Ti Hoy - New Hope en Español , Brandon, FL (813) 689-4161

In this powerful and unfiltered episode of Compelled, Emma Mae McDaniel opens up Revelation 3 to challenge believers with the words Jesus spoke to the church in Laodicea. With clarity and compassion, Emma invites us to confront lukewarm living—not out of shame, but out of love. Jesus says, “I correct and discipline everyone I love,” and that's exactly the heart behind this message. Emma reminds us that God sees it all, yet still draws near, offering grace and truth that calls us into deeper intimacy with Him. This episode is a wake-up call for those who feel stuck in comfort, indifference, or spiritual passivity—and an encouragement to rise up, repent, and live fully compelled by God's love. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

¿Alguna vez has sentido que no tienes nada… cuando en realidad eres más rico de lo que crees? En este episodio exploramos dos mensajes poderosos del libro de Apocalipsis: el que Jesús dirige a la iglesia de Esmirna y el que dirige a Laodicea. Dos realidades opuestas que nos invitan a cuestionarnos cómo estamos viviendo nuestra fe. Esmirna sufría, pero Jesús la llamó rica. Laodicea lo tenía todo, pero era pobre a los ojos de Dios. ¿Qué ve Él en ti que tú no estás viendo?

What if Jesus was on the outside of His own church, knocking to get in? This powerful message dives into His letter to the church in Laodicea from Revelation 3—a church that had everything on the surface but was missing the one thing that mattered: a real relationship with Him. They were rich, proud, and thought they had it all together, but Jesus saw them as lukewarm, spiritually poor, and in desperate need of Him.This sermon is a wake-up call for churches and individuals today who may know about Jesus but have pushed Him to the sidelines. With practical examples and a heartfelt invitation, the speaker challenges us to stop settling for surface-level faith and open the door to real, life-changing fellowship with Christ. It's not too late to let Him back in.

Finding Spiritual Renewal: Lessons from Laodicea explores the dangers of lukewarm faith and self-reliance in our spiritual lives. Discover how the ancient Church of Laodicea's story in Revelation provides powerful insights for believers today who may have drifted into spiritual complacency.Learn what it truly means to be spiritually lukewarm - not about emotional temperature but about effectiveness in God's kingdom. Just as Laodicea's water was neither healing nor refreshing, lukewarm believers fail to impact those around them. Understand the dangerous trap of self-deception that led this materially wealthy church to believe they were spiritually rich when they were actually 'wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked.'Explore how Jesus reveals Himself as the Amen, the Faithful Witness, and the Beginning of Creation to challenge this self-sufficient church. Identify warning signs of spiritual lukewarmness in your own life: self-sufficiency, spiritual blindness, independence rather than dependence, and keeping Jesus outside your heart.Discover the three-part solution Jesus offers: gold refined in fire (tested faith), white clothes (Christ's righteousness), and eye salve (spiritual vision). Understand the powerful image of Jesus standing outside, knocking on the door of His own church - respecting our free will while desiring intimate fellowship.This message challenges us to examine our spiritual temperature and take practical steps toward renewal: inviting Jesus into every area of life, examining self-talk that leads to self-deception, and cultivating God-confidence instead of self-confidence. Perfect for anyone feeling spiritually dry, self-reliant, or disconnected from God's presence.

Assistant Pastor Jarrod Bevan preaches on the Lukewarm church of Laodicea.

Jesus, the Lord of the church, evaluates the church at Philadelphia and at Laodicea.

I. THE GRATITUDE OF PAUL'S PRAYER LIFE (vv. 3-8)     1) Paul thanks God and prays ... for a church, most of whose members he has never met Colossians 1:3, "We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you," Colossians 2:1-2, "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..." Carson, "We must ask ourselves how extensive our own praying is. Do all our petitions revolve around our own families and churches, our own cherished but rather small circle of friends? Of course, we are primarily responsible for praying for our own circle... But if that is the furthest reach of our prayers, we become parochial [narrow in outlook or scope]... Our prayers may be an index of how small and self-centered our world is."     2) Paul's gratitude results from paying attention. Paul says to Philemon: "[4] I thank my God always when I remember you in my prayers, [5] because I hear of your love and of the faith that you have toward the Lord Jesus" (Philemon 4-5) Paul says to the Colossian church (that Philemon hosted in his house): "[3] We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, [4] since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love that you have for all the saints," (Colossians 1:3-4) Paul is listening! He is paying attention to others. Acts 15:36, "Paul said to Barnabas, 'Let us return and visit the brothers in every city where we proclaimed the word of the Lord, and see how they are.'" Paul cares greatly about their spiritual state! Carson, "[I]t will do us good to fasten on reports of Christians in several parts of the world we have never visited, find out what we can about them, and learn to intercede with God on their behalf. Not only is this an important expression of the fellowship of the church, but it is also a critical discipline that will enlarge our horizons, increase our ministry, and help us to become world Christians." When a fellow believer comes to your mind, what is your first thought? Irritation? Annoyance? Jealousy? Bitterness? What is Paul's first thought? Gratitude! Philemon 4 "I thank my God always when I remember you in my prayers," Colossians 1:3-4, "We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, [4] since we heard of your faith..." Gratitude for what? Their faith, love, and heavenly hope. Paul credits God with their own faith and love. Philippians 1:29, "For it has been granted [Dictionary: to give graciously] to you that for the sake of Christ you should not only believe in him but also suffer for his sake…” Colossians 3:12, "Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience,"     3) Paul thanks God for the gospel's fruit as it comes through human means (vv. 5b-8) Epaphras, after being converted under Paul, brings the good news to Colossea! (Last week's sermon)   II. THE FOCUS OF PAUL'S PRAYER LIFE (vv. 9-12) Spiritual growth is always the dominant concern, over the physical! Carson, "Suppose, for example, that 80 or 90 percent of our petitions ask God for good health, recovery from illness, safety on the road, a good job, success in exams, the emotional needs of our children, success in our mortgage application, and much more of the same. How much of Paul's praying revolves around equivalent items? If the center of our praying is far removed from the center of Paul's praying, then even our very praying may serve as a wretched testimony to the remarkable success of the processes of paganization in our life and thought. That is why we need to study the prayers of Paul." See Matthew 6:31-33, "Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?' or ‘What shall we drink?' or ‘What shall we wear?' [32] For the Gentiles [the pagans] seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. [33] But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." So what does Paul focus on in his prayer?     1) Paul asks God to fill believers with the knowledge of his will (v. 9) "[9] And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding," This may seem simple, yet it takes "all spiritual wisdom and understanding" in the complicated nature of life to know what is best. Doug Moo, "[This] suggests the ability to discern the truth and to make good decisions based on that truth." "spiritual wisdom" means wisdom from the Holy Spirit. (Not how many use the word "spiritual" today) EXAMPLE: Colossians 4:5-6, "Walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the best use of [= redeeming] the time. [6] Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person." How do I best love a fellow Christian who is in sin? How do I best evangelize a co-worker or family member? I only have limited money, how much do I spend, save, and give away? to whom? how often? How do I honor my parents if they are unbelievers and disagree with my faith? What does it look like to "speak the truth in love" when dealing with a rebellious student? or hostile unebeliver? or a timid Christian friend? When does hard work become sinful preoccupation with your career? When does rest become laziness?  You are posting something *true* on social media, but unsure if it will be edifying or needlessly distracting or contentious     2) Paul's purpose in prayer is that believers might be truly pleasing to the Lord (v. 10a)   v. 10 "so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him:" Knowledge must lead to action! "Knowing" God's will (with all spiritual wisdom and understanding) must lead to "walking/living out" God's will. We must walk in a manner worthy of the Lord. (Not earning, not perfection; but rather living "in accord with" the Lord, fully pleasing to Him)     3) Paul prays for four characteristics of a life that is pleasing to the Lord (v. 10b-12)   This will produce, among others, these four characteristics... "BEARING FRUIT in every good work" (v. 10b): Fruit is about character transformation and faithfulness, not mere "results." "INCREASING in the knowledge of God;" (v. 10c): it will lead to a fully experiential knowledge of God, as we walk with Him "BEING STRENGTHENED with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy;" (v. 11) "[Endurance] is what faith, hope, and love bring to an apparently impossible situation, [patience] what they show to an apparently impossible person." To endure ... takes power; to endure patiently with joy takes tremendous power "according to his glorious might." "GIVING THANKS to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in light." (v. 12) Paul further reminds them why they should be thankful: (vv. 13-14) vv. 13-14 "He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son, [14] in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins." All of this should be seasoned by thankfulness to the Father for our share in the "inheritance of the saints of light."   III. THE DEVOTION OF PAUL'S PRAYER LIFE     1) WHY does Paul pray so often for so many? Colossians 1:3, 9, "We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, .... [9] And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you," Carson, "In short, Paul is telling the Colossians that since hearing about them he has made it a point to intercede with God on their behalf in his disciplined, regular prayer times; he has 'not stopped praying' for them."  Carson, "Paul again and again prays for ... the Colossian believers, as if the supply must be constantly renewed." Think of it like watering the grass or flowers. It must be done continually! Colossians 4:12-13, "Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ Jesus, greets you, always struggling on your behalf in his prayers, that you may stand mature and fully assured in all the will of God."     2) HOW does Paul pray so often for so many? Philemon 4-5, "I thank my God always when I remember you [singular] in my prayers," G.K. Beale, "Paul is praying specifically for Philemon [the 'you' is singular], which implies that his daily prayer list must have been extensive." Richard Phillips, "When we consider the large number of people for whom Paul says that he is praying, he must have had not only a devoted prayer life, but also a highly organized one." APPLICATION: Don't turn these points from Carson into legalisms, but take them as practical suggestions to help you pray in a more regular, organized, and focused way. I. PLAN TO PRAY Don Carson, "Much praying is not done because we do not plan to pray. We do not drift into spiritual life; we do not drift into disciplined prayer. We will not grow in prayer unless we plan to pray. That means we must self-consciously set aside time to do nothing but pray. What we actually do reflects out highest priorities. That means we can proclaim our commitment to prayer until the cows come home, but unless we actually pray, our actions disown our words. This is the fundamental reason why set times for prayer are important: they ensure that vague desires for prayer are concretized in regular practice. Paul's many references to his 'prayers' suggest that he set aside specific times for prayer -- as apparently Jesus himself did (Luke 5:16)... Unless we plan to pray we will not pray." ('Praying with Paul,' p. 1-2). II. ADOPT PRACTICAL WAYS TO FIGHT MENTAL DRIFT Don Carson, "Adopt practical ways to impede mental drift.... [Perhaps] articulate your prayers, moving your lips...to...help deter meandering.... A great way to begin to overcome this problem is to pray through various biblical passages. In other words, it is entirely appropriate to tie your praying to your Bible reading... [The] truths and entailments [in your daily Scripture reading] can be the basis of a great deal of reflective praying. [Another option is] journaling [your prayers.] III. DEVELOP A SYSTEM FOR YOUR PRAYER LISTS Carson, "Develop a system for your prayer lists. It is difficult to pray faithfully for a large spread of people and concerns without developing prayer lists that help you remember them." Carson's personal "system": "I kept a manila folder in my study, where I pray... The first sheet ... was a list of people for whom I ought to pray regularly: ... My wife..., my children and a number of relatives, followed by a number of close friends... [Then] institutional names on that sheed [which] included [my] local church ... and the seminary where I now teach. The second sheet ... listed short-range ... concerns that would not remain indefinitely... In other words, the first sheet focused on people for whom I prayed constantly; the second included people and situations for whom I might pray for a short[er] ... time, but probably not indefinitely. The next item ... was the list of the students ... for whom I was particularly responsible....and of course this list changed from year to year." IV. KEEP YOUR PRAYERS TIED TO SCRIPTURE V. PRAY UNTIL YOU PRAY VI. FIND MODELS WORTHY OF IMITATION Don Casron's book, which Mark used to help with the message and numerous subpoints, can be purchased here. You can watch this message here.

In May of 1859, Charles Spurgeon preached a sermon that, in part, said this. "I have gone into churches and I have seen a dead man in the pulpit, and a dead man as a deacon, and a dead man holding the plate at the door, and dead men sitting to hear. You say "Strange!" but I have. " Here in 2025, we are on the other side of that curve, the 'falling away' all but complete. On this Sunday Service, we bring a message that, hopefully, will rouse you from your Laodicean end times slumber. Preached live this morning at the Bible Believers Church in the NTEB Bookstore in Palatka, Florida.

Mensaje de José Rafael Pérez on July 27, 2025

Be motivated to be zealous to repent - if necessary - by the teaching ministry of Gregg Madden, as he declares the truth from Jesus' letter to a lukewarm congregation.

Colossians 4:7-187 Tychicus will tell you all about my activities. He is a beloved brother and faithful minister and fellow servant in the Lord. 8 I have sent him to you for this very purpose, that you may know how we are and that he may encourage your hearts, 9 and with him Onesimus, our faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you. They will tell you of everything that has taken place here.10 Aristarchus my fellow prisoner greets you, and Mark the cousin of Barnabas (concerning whom you have received instructions—if he comes to you, welcome him), 11 and Jesus who is called Justus. These are the only men of the circumcision among my fellow workers for the kingdom of God, and they have been a comfort to me. 12 Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ Jesus, greets you, always struggling on your behalf in his prayers, that you may stand mature and fully assured in all the will of God. 13 For I bear him witness that he has worked hard for you and for those in Laodicea and in Hierapolis. 14 Luke the beloved physician greets you, as does Demas. 15 Give my greetings to the brothers at Laodicea, and to Nympha and the church in her house. 16 And when this letter has been read among you, have it also read in the church of the Laodiceans; and see that you also read the letter from Laodicea. 17 And say to Archippus, “See that you fulfill the ministry that you have received in the Lord.”

Colossians 4:7-187 Tychicus will tell you all about my activities. He is a beloved brother and faithful minister and fellow servant in the Lord. 8 I have sent him to you for this very purpose, that you may know how we are and that he may encourage your hearts, 9 and with him Onesimus, our faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you. They will tell you of everything that has taken place here.10 Aristarchus my fellow prisoner greets you, and Mark the cousin of Barnabas (concerning whom you have received instructions—if he comes to you, welcome him), 11 and Jesus who is called Justus. These are the only men of the circumcision among my fellow workers for the kingdom of God, and they have been a comfort to me. 12 Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ Jesus, greets you, always struggling on your behalf in his prayers, that you may stand mature and fully assured in all the will of God. 13 For I bear him witness that he has worked hard for you and for those in Laodicea and in Hierapolis. 14 Luke the beloved physician greets you, as does Demas. 15 Give my greetings to the brothers at Laodicea, and to Nympha and the church in her house. 16 And when this letter has been read among you, have it also read in the church of the Laodiceans; and see that you also read the letter from Laodicea. 17 And say to Archippus, “See that you fulfill the ministry that you have received in the Lord.”