Podcasts about Laodicea

In this episode of the Church Planter Podcast, Peyton Jones sits down with Dr. Michael Cooper to talk about his new book, Gods, Emperors, Philosophers, and a New Movement.Building on his work in Ephesiology, Michael explores how archaeology helps us better understand the early church, the spread of the gospel, and the world Paul and the first Christians inhabited. From Ephesus to Laodicea, they discuss house churches, public gathering spaces, Christograms, the Hall of Tyrannus, and the evidence of Christian movement in the first centuries.The conversation also challenges church planters to think beyond simple church growth formulas and recover the kind of patient, contextual, culturally engaged mission we see in the New Testament. The early church adapted to real places, engaged real people, and took the time to make disciples who could carry the gospel into new spaces.If you want to understand first-century mission, think more deeply about church planting, and learn how history and archaeology can sharpen disciple-making today, this episode is for you.Resources and Links Mentioned in this Episode:Gods, Emperors, Philosophers, and a New MovementNewBreed TrainingThanks for listening to the Church Planter Podcast. We're here to help you go where no one else is going and do what no one else is doing to reach people no one else is reaching.Make sure to review and subscribe to the show on your favorite podcast service to help us connect with more church planters.

Todaywe begin a new section in Philippians chapter 3. In the previous verses, Paulhas been sharing the great passion of his heart when he said, "That I mayknow Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of Hissufferings." Now, as we come to Philippians 3:12, Paul begins to describehis pursuit of Christ. He writes: "Not as though I had alreadyattained, either were already perfect..." Paul gives us one of themost important secrets of spiritual growth, and it is surprisingly simple. Thesecret is this: never become satisfied with where you are spiritually. Nowthink about who is making this statement. This is not a new convert. This isnot a believer who has only been walking with Christ for a few months. This isthe Apostle Paul. By the time he writes Philippians, Paul has walked withChrist for nearly thirty years. And yet, Paul says: "Not as though Ihad already attained, either were already perfect." The word"perfect" here does not mean sinless perfection. It means complete,finished, mature, or having fully arrived at the goal. Paulis saying, "I have not crossed the finish line yet. God's work in my lifeis not complete." What humility! The very man we would probably considerone of the greatest Christians who ever lived looked at himself and said,"I still have room to grow." One of the surest marks of spiritualmaturity is realizing how much more maturity is needed. The closer we get toJesus, the more clearly we see areas in our lives that need His transforminggrace. Have you ever noticed that when you first clean a window, it lookspretty good? But when the sunlight shines through it, suddenly you noticestreaks and smudges you never saw before.  1John 1:7 says: “But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we havefellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses usfrom all sin.”  The closer we walkwith Christ, the brighter His light shines on our hearts. We begin to seeattitudes, motives, habits, and weaknesses that need to change. That does notdiscourage a growing Christian. Instead, it motivates him. Paul had what wemight call a holy dissatisfaction. He was satisfied with Christ, but he was notsatisfied with his own spiritual progress. There is a tremendous differencebetween those two things. Paul had found complete satisfaction in Jesus Christ,but he still longed to know Him more deeply, love Him more fully, and serve Himmore faithfully. Sadly,one of the greatest dangers in the Christian life is spiritual complacency. Thechurch at Laodicea is a perfect example. In Revelation 3:17 they said: "Iam rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing."ButJesus saw them differently. He said they were: "Wretched, miserable, poor,blind, and naked."  They thoughtthey had arrived when in reality they were far from where they needed to be.That danger still exists today.  Sometimeswe compare ourselves with other Christians instead of comparing ourselves withChrist. Paul never compared himself to other believers.He compared himself to Jesus Christ. And when you compare yourself to Jesus,there is always room to grow. Psalm42:1-2 gives us a beautiful picture of holy dissatisfaction: "As thedeer pants for the water brooks, so pants my soul for You, O God. My soulthirsts for God, for the living God." The psalmist was not contentwith yesterday's fellowship. He longed for more of God today. That was Paul'sattitude. That should be our attitude as well. A satisfied Christian is often astagnant Christian. The Christian race is not over until we see Jesus face toface. There are still lessons to learn, victories to win, prayers to pray,people to reach, and ways to become more like Christ. So let us embrace whatPaul embraced—a holy dissatisfaction that keeps us pursuing Christ every day ofour lives. 

This sermon teaches that the seventh-day Sabbath is rooted in creation, established by God as a continuing sign for all mankind, and preserved through the biblical weekly cycle from Genesis to the future restoration described in Isaiah. It contrasts biblical Sabbath observance with man-made religious traditions, emphasizing that faith is shown through obedience, holy time, fellowship, rest, and living according to the Creator's instructions.Sabbath, seventh day, creation, Genesis 2, Genesis 1, Exodus 20, Leviticus 23, Isaiah 66, Hebrews 4, Yahweh, Yeshua, commandments, obedience, faith and works, holy convocation, Mikra Kodesh, Sabbath rest, biblical time, evening and morning, sunset to sunset, new moon, Abib, biblical calendar, creation week, Sabbath for mankind, people of God, Torah observance, commandment keeping, holy days, fellowship, worship, rest, Sunday worship, Council of Laodicea, time zones, biblical authority, signs of faith

A @Christadelphians Video: 3. Revelation warns us to watch out for the unclean froglike spirits which gather the nations to Armageddon. “Spirits” in the Bible refer to teachings. These are lying, deceitful teachings which only bring corruption.[Inspiring] Thought-provoking and wonderfully expositional, this Watchman Report presents Part 3 of 'The Lord's Direct Message to Us', focusing on the startling symbol of 'The Frog-like Spirits' from Revelation 16. We explore the drying up of the Euphrates, its historical fulfilment in the decline of the Ottoman Empire, and how this sets the stage for the return of our Lord Jesus Christ. This outstanding and revealing study uncovers the hidden danger of unclean teachings that could cause us to lose our garments and be found ashamed at His coming. Using insightful Old Testament links—from the plague of frogs in Exodus, to the lying spirit in 2 Chronicles, and the tragic nakedness in Genesis—we see what we must watch out for in our generation. If you seek a serious, Scripture-based understanding of end-time prophecy and the battle of Armageddon, this video is for you.**Chapters:**00:00 - Introduction to the Watchman Report00:19 - The Sixth Vial and the River Euphrates01:41 - Unlocking the Symbol: Isaiah and the Ottoman Empire05:49 - The Return to Jerusalem (1917)06:57 - The Lord's Warning: Watch, or Be Found Naked09:39 - The Three Unclean Spirits Like Frogs10:42 - What Do 'Spirits' Mean in Scripture?12:40 - The Temple Guard and the Danger of Losing Our Garments14:10 - Old Testament Background #1: Exodus 8 (The Plague of Frogs)17:02 - Old Testament Background #2: 2 Chronicles 18 (The Lying Spirit)20:21 - Old Testament Background #3: Genesis 3 (Nakedness and Shame)22:26 - Why This Symbol Matters for Our Generation22:47 - Conclusion and Next Video Preview**Bible Verse Category:**

“Full Assurance and Firm Faith” Colossians 2:1-5                June 14, 2026 Pastor Nathan Currey   ----more---- Colossians 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.    Because life can be confusing and unsettling, we need to cultivate a secure and settled faith in Christ.       •   What does assurance mean?         •   How do I gain it?         •   How do I keep it?      "The more clearly Christ is known, the more settled the heart becomes."   Thomas Manton

Revelation 3:14-22

The sermon centers on Jesus' declaration in John 6:35, 'I am the bread of life,' emphasizing that true fulfillment comes not from physical sustenance or earthly achievements, but from a deep, ongoing spiritual hunger satisfied only by faith in Christ. It confronts the crowd's initial motivation—seeking Jesus for the miracle of the loaves and fishes, driven by physical need—highlighting how their focus on temporal provision reveals a deeper spiritual complacency. The preacher warns against the danger of spiritual apathy, illustrated by the lukewarm church in Laodicea, which trusted in its material prosperity rather than its need for continual dependence on God. To combat this, the message calls for a renewed craving for God's Word and for Christ Himself, urging believers to pursue spiritual growth with a 'positive discontentment' that rejects self-satisfaction. Ultimately, the sermon affirms that salvation and sanctification are found not in religious works or rituals, but in a living, daily faith in Jesus, the true bread from heaven who gives eternal life.

Tony Alamo with Tony Alamo World Wide Ministries Kept From Temptation, Made a Pillar, and Called to Walk in White Sermon 759B Returning to Revelation's Promise of Protection This archived Tony Alamo message continues the teaching through Revelation chapter 3, picking up around verse 10. After the Help from Christ Ministries introduction and opening prayer, Tony focuses on Christ's promise to those who keep “the word of my patience.” He interprets this as patient, daily obedience to Jesus, who is identified with the Word of God. Tony teaches that those who keep Christ's Word are kept from the hour of temptation that comes upon the world. Staying Away From Temptation Tony applies Revelation 3:10 personally, saying that God has kept him from temptation in part through his physical limitations and by keeping him focused indoors on preaching, study, prayer, and messages rather than worldly distractions. He warns listeners that temptation comes through television, magazines, movies, public images, and everyday surroundings. His practical instruction is direct: if a person cannot control their emotions or is easily tempted, they should remove themselves from the situation and keep their mind on the Word of God. Hold Fast So No One Takes Your Crown Moving into Revelation 3:11, Tony emphasizes Christ's command to “hold fast” so that no one takes the believer's crown. He warns that men, women, worldly attraction, resentment, rebellion, and disobedience can pull a person away from God. He says Christ is coming quickly and that people should return to obedience immediately rather than continue further into spiritual danger. The crown, in this teaching, represents the reward and standing of someone who remains faithful until the end. Pillars in the Temple of God Tony then discusses Revelation 3:12, where Christ promises to make the overcomer a pillar in the temple of God. He explains that a pillar is not merely a physical object, but a strong, reliable, demanding support within God's work. Using examples from well-run restaurants and businesses, Tony says strong leadership preserves quality, order, and consistency. He applies this to the church, saying that God makes overcomers into rulers or strong supports within His temple because they can be trusted with His work. The Name of God and the New Jerusalem Tony continues with the promise that the overcomer will receive the name of God, the name of the city of God, and Christ's new name. He interprets this as God marking the faithful as His property and identifying them with the New Jerusalem, which he says will come down from heaven. Tony connects this with the image of believers as Christ's bride, using the language of belonging, union, and eternal identity. For him, this is the elite promise given to those who overcome. Laodicea and the Danger of Lukewarm Faith The teaching then shifts to the church of Laodicea. Tony identifies Jesus as the Amen, the faithful and true witness, and the beginning of the creation of God. He warns against being neither cold nor hot, saying that lukewarm believers are spiritually unacceptable and will be spit out. He criticizes routine, boredom, complacency, and a lack of zeal, arguing that people who claim faith but no longer burn with obedience and urgency are in grave spiritual danger. Rich in Goods, Poor in Spirit Tony highlights Christ's warning to Laodicea: the people say they are rich, increased with goods, and in need of nothing, while not realizing they are spiritually wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked. He applies this to people who depend on comfort, possessions, status, hotels, food, gyms, or worldly security rather than God. In his interpretation, material abundance can blind people to their true spiritual condition if they believe they no longer need Christ, the Father, or the Holy Spirit. Gold Tried in the Fire and Eyes Opened by the Word Tony explains Christ's counsel to buy gold tried in the fire, white raiment, and eye salve. He interprets the gold as spiritual riches gained through persecution and doing God's work. The white raiment represents walking without sin, while the eye salve represents getting one's eyes into the Word of God so spiritual blindness can be healed. He teaches that the fire of persecution is not meaningless suffering, but part of becoming spiritually rich, clothed, and able to see. Letters From Haiti and Nigeria The program then includes letters read by Sharon. A letter from Pétion-Ville, Haiti thanks the ministry for French newsletters and Messiah books, saying the writer has distributed them and is consecrated to the Lord's work. The letter also asks for food assistance for poor districts and requests a scholarship to study theology. Another letter from Kwara, Nigeria thanks God for Tony and the ministry, praises the love shown to people around the world, and says the newsletters were received with gratitude. Salvation, White Raiment, and the Closing Song Tony closes by inviting listeners to be saved, begin doing the work of the Lord, and allow God to use them in powerful ways. He says he never expected to become a preacher, teacher, or president of a Christian school association, but that God can use anyone who trusts Him. He leads listeners in a salvation prayer, asking Jesus to forgive sins through His blood and enter the heart. After Sharon gives contact information for requesting the program, Tony briefly describes visions of heaven and introduces the song “Angel Band,” presenting it as a picture of the joy of going to heaven.

Speaker: Pastor Pete Potloff Series: Dear Church Scripture: Revelation 3:14-22 Date: June 14, 2026

Apostolic Fellowship Church of Christ Jesus Friday Evening Service - 6/12/2026 1153 Blue Hills Ave, Bloomfield, CT 06002 We can be reached by contacting us at AFCMedia@AFC-ct.com or calling us at (860) 242-3518

The church in Laodicea received no praise from the Son of Man (Revelation 3:14-22). They were lukewarm, and their self-perception was completely opposite of reality. Yet, Christ stood at the door and knocked, wanting to dine with them!

Alex Johnston

Alex Johnston

This message centers on the imperative of remembrance and mutual care within the body of Christ, calling believers to remember the sufferings of the saints, especially Paul's bonds, as a vital act of faith and obedience. It emphasizes the theological themes of Christ's supremacy, the unity of the church across geographic and social boundaries, and the enduring power of the gospel despite persecution, illustrated through the historical context of Laodicea's pride and spiritual blindness. We must reject self-sufficiency and embrace humility, while drawing strength from the shared sufferings and triumphs of the saints throughout history. The call to remember is not a mere nostalgia but a moral and spiritual duty, rooted in Scripture and essential to preserving the church's identity and mission. The Gospel's success in the ancient world and the enduring legacy of faithful witness are grounded in divine sovereignty and must inspire present-day faithfulness, boldness, and brotherly solidarity.

Every Christian is called to ministry, not just pastors and church staff. God has given each believer a unique role in His kingdom, whether serving in children's ministry, greeting visitors, or working behind the scenes. The key to powerful ministry lies in developing a steadfast prayer life that creates spiritual awareness and influences how we interact with others. Our words should be gracious and life-giving, building up rather than tearing down. Through kingdom networking and discipleship, we connect with other believers to encourage and equip one another for service. Churches must prioritize developing young adults and interns who have the energy and time to impact the world for Christ. ----------------------- ' Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ, on account of which I am in prison— that I may make it clear, which is how I ought to speak. Walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the best use of the time. Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person. Tychicus will tell you all about my activities. He is a beloved brother and faithful minister and fellow servant in the Lord. I have sent him to you for this very purpose, that you may know how we are and that he may encourage your hearts, 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. 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), 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. 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. For I bear him witness that he has worked hard for you and for those in Laodicea and in Hierapolis. Luke the beloved physician greets you, as does Demas. Give my greetings to the brothers at Laodicea, and to Nympha and the church in her house. 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. And say to Archippus, “See that you fulfill the ministry that you have received in the Lord.” I, Paul, write this greeting with my own hand. Remember my chains. Grace be with you.' Colossians 4:2-18

The sermon centers on the urgent call to spiritual revival, grounded in Jesus' message to the lukewarm church in Laodicea, which the speaker presents as a prophetic diagnosis of the modern evangelical church's spiritual complacency. Through a deep exegesis of Revelation 3:14–22, the message reveals that genuine revival begins with divine confrontation—recognizing one's spiritual poverty, blindness, and nakedness—followed by a transformative response of repentance, prayer, and reliance on Christ. The Lord's invitation to 'come in' and 'knock' is portrayed not merely as a personal salvation call, but as a corporate, corporate awakening where believers, through persistent prayer, listening to Scripture, meditating on Christ, and repenting for cultural sin, begin to experience His nearness and power. The promise of revival is not only personal renewal but a future hope of divine restoration, where the redeemed will share in Christ's throne, while the final call remains a solemn invitation: to hear and respond before it is too late.

Did Paul write an uninspired letters?  Are we missing important books that should be in the Bible? Is everything Paul wrote inspired?  And what does this say about the trustworthiness of the Scriptures?

Revelation 3:14-22 - Speaker: Jon Kopp - Our study through Jesus' seven letters to His church comes to a close with a surprising mix of severity and grace. By their own measure, the church in Laodicea thought they were thriving, and so they assumed Jesus would be pleased with them. Instead, He brings one of the most jarring assessments in all the letters. He says He is so disgusted that He wants to spit them out. But, Jesus doesn't expose them to shame them. He does it to offer them something incredible. As we study this text together, we'll find Jesus dismantling a comfortable church's confidence so He can give them what they truly need and can only find in Him. May the Lord use this passage to show us where we've grown self-sufficient, and may we receive from Him what only He can give.

Revelation 3:14-22 - Speaker: Briley Hughes - Our study through Jesus' seven letters to His church comes to a close with a surprising mix of severity and grace. By their own measure, the church in Laodicea thought they were thriving, and so they assumed Jesus would be pleased with them. Instead, He brings one of the most jarring assessments in all the letters. He says He is so disgusted that He wants to spit them out. But, Jesus doesn't expose them to shame them. He does it to offer them something incredible. As we study this text together, we'll find Jesus dismantling a comfortable church's confidence so He can give them what they truly need and can only find in Him. May the Lord use this passage to show us where we've grown self-sufficient, and may we receive from Him what only He can give.

Laodicea, an important city of the Roman Empire, had a serious issue with drinkable water. Hot Springs filled with impurities were a main source of water for the city. Archaeological excavations have revealed an attempt to bring water from an outside source in through stone pipes containing limestone deposits which would have contaminated the water for drinking. Just as lukewarm water is useless, the church in Laodicea is useless to Jesus. Dependency is a sign of maturity for a Christian. The danger of wealth is that it has the potential to create independent people. They may feel competent and successful but they are in actuality poor, and pitiful. Jesus strong words are a love gift to wake them up and reset their lives onto a new trajectory. They need only to repent, turn away from self-sufficiency and turn back to Jesus!------------------------By now we can see each church named is located in a real place with real temptations, hardships, and opposition. This is how it is for all Christians in all centuries – for we do have a very real enemy and this world is not our home. Additionally we have also seen how Jesus uses illustrations from the reader's own environment to communicate deep spiritual truths for greater understanding among its hearers. He did this all throughout the gospels as well!  In Summary:• **Ephesus – drifting church:** right doctrine but did not have love• **Smyrna – suffering church:** going through persecution—encouraged to stay faithful• **Pergamum – compromising church:** held to the truth—exhorted to not compromise• **Thyatira – tolerant church:** tolerance led to unfaithfulness• **Sardis – defeated church:** apathy and material wealth lead to defeat• **Philadelphia—suffering church:** going through persecution—Jesus reminds them of His love.• **Laodicea—lukewarm church:** apathy and material wealth lead to uselessnessThe pattern laid out in these letters is: *who Jesus is, who the church is, exhortations and promises.*Let us take to heart the condition of each church, examining our own walk and the culture of our own church against each possible state. Let us receive both Jesus' words of encouragement in suffering and His warnings in apathy. Above all else let us wake up to and rejoice in our “great need for a Saviour and a great Saviour for our need!” (Spurgeon)Prepare for this week's teaching by reading Revelation 3:14-22

Laodicea, an important city of the Roman Empire, had a serious issue with drinkable water. Hot Springs filled with impurities were a main source of water for the city. Archaeological excavations have revealed an attempt to bring water from an outside source in through stone pipes containing limestone deposits which would have contaminated the water for drinking. Just as lukewarm water is useless, the church in Laodicea is useless to Jesus. Dependency is a sign of maturity for a Christian. The danger of wealth is that it has the potential to create independent people. They may feel competent and successful but they are in actuality poor, and pitiful. Jesus strong words are a love gift to wake them up and reset their lives onto a new trajectory. They need only to repent, turn away from self-sufficiency and turn back to Jesus!------------------------By now we can see each church named is located in a real place with real temptations, hardships, and opposition. This is how it is for all Christians in all centuries – for we do have a very real enemy and this world is not our home. Additionally we have also seen how Jesus uses illustrations from the reader's own environment to communicate deep spiritual truths for greater understanding among its hearers. He did this all throughout the gospels as well!  In Summary:• **Ephesus – drifting church:** right doctrine but did not have love• **Smyrna – suffering church:** going through persecution—encouraged to stay faithful• **Pergamum – compromising church:** held to the truth—exhorted to not compromise• **Thyatira – tolerant church:** tolerance led to unfaithfulness• **Sardis – defeated church:** apathy and material wealth lead to defeat• **Philadelphia—suffering church:** going through persecution—Jesus reminds them of His love.• **Laodicea—lukewarm church:** apathy and material wealth lead to uselessnessThe pattern laid out in these letters is: *who Jesus is, who the church is, exhortations and promises.*Let us take to heart the condition of each church, examining our own walk and the culture of our own church against each possible state. Let us receive both Jesus' words of encouragement in suffering and His warnings in apathy. Above all else let us wake up to and rejoice in our “great need for a Saviour and a great Saviour for our need!” (Spurgeon)Prepare for this week's teaching by reading Revelation 3:14-22

Letter to Laodicea Leah Pavel

Every single thing Jesus has to say to the church of Laodicea is scathingly negative. The city of Laodicea was a medical center—there was a famous medical school there, and they produced a lot of medicines. Jesus essentially says the church in Laodicea is spiritually sick, and that he has the medicine for them. And whenever we see Scripture diagnosing a spiritual condition, we must always ask, “Is this true of me?” Let's look at this spiritual condition under three headings: 1) the symptom, 2) the underlying disease, and 3) the medicines and remedies. This sermon was preached by Dr. Timothy Keller at Redeemer Presbyterian Church on August 17, 2008. Series: Revelation: Jesus' Letters to the Church. Scripture: Revelation 3:14-22. Today's podcast is brought to you by Gospel in Life, the site for all sermons, books, study guides and resources from Timothy Keller and Redeemer Presbyterian Church. If you've enjoyed listening to this podcast and would like to support the ongoing efforts of this ministry, you can do so by visiting https://gospelinlife.com/give and making a one-time or recurring donation.

You've heard the word "lukewarm" your whole Christian life — but what if most people have completely misunderstood what Jesus actually meant? In this episode of Fuel for the Harvest, Nathan sits down with co-host Charlie to dig into one of the most well-known — and most misinterpreted — passages in all of Scripture: Revelation 3 and the letter to the church at Laodicea.Spoiler: Jesus wasn't saying he'd rather you be lost than mediocre. The real meaning is far more convicting — and far more hopeful — than that.In this episode, Nathan and Charlie unpack:Why the common interpretation of "hot or cold" is probably wrongThe fascinating historical and geographical context behind Laodicea's water supplyWhy lukewarmness is really about being useless to God's purposes — not being spiritually "in the middle"How pride and comfort combine to create dangerous spiritual blindnessWhat it means that Jesus is standing at the door knocking — from the outsideThe difference between being a bucket and being a conduit of God's graceThe powerful promise Jesus makes to anyone who will open the door and repentCharlie is a Forge speaker and a featured voice across the first 200 episodes of Fuel for the Harvest. Find more from Charlie on the Forge YouTube channel or invite him to speak at your event.

“Lukewarm” isn’t really a desirable trait in, well, just about anything. After all, is there anyone who actually looks forward to a lukewarm cup of coffee in the morning? But when Jesus uses this word, what he has in mind is something far worse. In this message from Revelation 3, Pastor J.D. takes us through John’s last three letters to the churches. Though Jesus doesn’t have anything negative to say to the church at Philadelphia, he has plenty to say to the congregation of Laodicea, and it begins with his visceral reaction to their halfhearted Christianity. We, of course, have to be careful not to fall into the same trap: claiming the name of Jesus with our lips but living lives that are in no way distinct from the world.

Rev. Patrick Donohue

What if Jesus wrote our church a letter? Revelation 3 records the last three messages from Jesus to seven churches in the Roman province of Asia. Jesus provided encouragement and warnings, but assured them that if they opened the door to him, it would be the defining moment of their lives. Read more...

Main Text: Matthew 21:1-17Jesus approaches His final hour by parading towards Jerusalem with His followers in the midst of explosive reactions by the large crowd chanting “Hosanna to the Son of David” (Matthew 21:9-11).The chapter started with a prophetic act to acclimate His disciples (verses 1-3). He foreknows where the donkeys are and the fact that the owners would lend them. The disciples participated in obedience to the prophetic action in verse 4, fulfilling Zechariah 9:9.The owners complied and the disciples obeyed because … ”The Lord needs them (verse 3).” The prophetic spectacle unfolds before a very large crowd who showed them adulation by “spreading their cloaks on the road, while others cut branches from the trees and spread them along the road while they cried out words of acknowledgment and worship, identifying Jesus, the miracle worker, as the Messiah, the Blessed Son of David (verses 8-11).The whole city was affected with both exuberance and interest (verses 10-11). After all of this triumphant procession, they arrive at the court of the gentiles in the outer court of the holy temple. Here, Jesus in contrast, Jesus uses some violence to demonstrate His rebuke. What turned His celebrating disposition to one of vivid displeasure (verse 13).The temple became a demonstration of false holiness that was hallow when it comes to those in need of God's help: The people, especially those considered “unclean” in the Old Testament law.Verses 12 – 17His uncharacteristic violent behavior of Jesus (gentle Shepard) verse 12.His message verse 13.The religious establishment were making the house built for prayer and spiritual benefit to a den of robbers (the focus on Commerce and “overcharging” (dishonest money changers?), etc.Not only greedy dishonest commerce but leaving out of their ministry considerations, those considered “unclean” in the Old Testament (“blind, lame, 2 Samuel 5:8; those with physical abnormality (Leviticus 21:7-12) and even children, Matthew 18:1-5, Matthew 21:14-16(.The house of prayer statement in Jesus' rebuke covers more than just praying but also ministering to those spiritually and physically disenfranchised from religious society (21:14-16). Remember when Jesus healed on the Sabbath (the law) Jesus was rebuked by some in the religious leadership; So, the temple was abused by secular minded leadership priesthood, etc. (read Mark 2:23-28).This false holiness was evidenced in some, if not more of the religious leadership: especially the Priests and Scribes.When the chief priests and teachers of the law saw the wonderful things he did (for the lame, blind, diseased and poor persons and even the children) … “They became angry” (verse 15). And in contrast the children, not the religious hierarchy, recognized, along with the crowd and His disciples (verses 8-11): They exclaiming “Hosanna in the Highest”; what a radical change!This triumphal entry picture illustrates clearly that even religion given by God on Mt. Sinai can develop wrong priorities: The focus on using religion, even Christianity, for primarily commerce, power, and status. They developed a false idea of holiness without compassion and buildings and related practices without the presence of God, who is love.Even in the Old Testament, this is expounded in Isaiah 58 – What is true fasting (read it).2 Timothy 3:5, producing even Christians that only have a form or an appearance of holiness/godliness but resisting or denying its power to change them. Have nothing to do with them! (unless they repent, Galatians 6:1-2).Finally materialistic commerce focused political and religious priorities are the characteristics of the religious, political economic practices of the Antichrist system, to be destroyed by the Parousia of Jesus: described in Revelation 17, 18, & 19.This is what Matthew's version of Jesus triumphal entry in Matthew 21:1-17 illustrates: Joy, victory transformed by commercially oriented religious people who are then rebuked by Jesus. (See also the church of Laodicea in 3:14-21. But in His rebuked, there is always hope for restoration.AMEN

The Laodicean message in Revelation 3:14-22 represents Christ's loving preparation of His people for the final work of reaching the world. The word Laodiceans means people of judgment, identifying us as the generation living in the time of final judgment. Jesus introduces Himself as the Amen, the final authority in a time of confusion. The problem with being lukewarm isn't about salvation status, but about feeling no spiritual need. When we're cold we feel a need for warmth, when hot we need cooling, but lukewarm feels no need for anything. This mirrors the dangerous pride seen in Lucifer, Babylon, and Laodicea - all declaring their self-sufficiency. Christ reveals we are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked not to discourage us, but to awaken us to our desperate need for Him. Acknowledging our spiritual poverty actually draws us closer to Jesus, as His power is made perfect in weakness.

The last three of these seven letters, found in Revelation 3, are written to churches that are all in very different places. Sardis might have looked the part from an outsider's perspective but it's reality was very different, Philadelphia may not have been the most impressive looking church but was persevering in an admirable way, and Laodicea was a church that needed to rediscover its passion and zeal!

Join Pastor Marco to study the letter writen to Laodicea from the book of Revelation.You can connect with Moriel in more locations than just YouTube!Check out all our official links on the About page: https://www.youtube.com/c/MorielTVministries/about.The U.S. Copyright Office protects this video and its contents under section 107 of the Fair Use Copyright Act 1976 which can be found here: can be found here:https://www.copyright.gov/title17/92chap1.html#107.While we do encourage comments, all are held for review before posting. We ask that you please focus your posts on the video and it's topic. Keep it relevant to the message; and of course showering us with love is always welcome. We do appreciate you and thank you for caring enough to speak up and speak out.Please note: Posts that are longer than a short paragraph, contains hate, or disrespectful comments, or links to websites or other videos will be deleted. Comments determined to be inappropriate, obscene, disrespectful or with links to pornographic material, will get you banned.All decisions on comments are at our discretion.

Jesus is the First and the Last—the One who was there at the beginning, and the One who holds the final word. What feels unfinished, broken, or uncertain in our lives is not beyond His reach. In Him, every chapter finds its meaning, and every ending is held in hope. This Sunday, we're leaning into the truth that Jesus completes the story. Not with fear, but with victory. Not with despair, but with redemption. Come and be reminded: what stands against us will not outlast the One who stands for us. If you are new to Community Church, WELCOME! We would love to get to know you. Please fill in the following form and we look forward to connecting with you: https://bit.ly/cc-new-connect You can find all timely and relevant links from this service on https://bit.ly/cc-links You can also find out more about us at https://communitychurch.hk/ ================ This Week's Scripture: // Revelation 1:9-20 (NIV) // John's vision of Christ I, John, your brother and companion in the suffering and kingdom and patient endurance that are ours in Jesus, was on the island of Patmos because of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus. On the Lord's Day I was in the Spirit, and I heard behind me a loud voice like a trumpet, which said: ‘Write on a scroll what you see and send it to the seven churches: to Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia and Laodicea.' I turned round to see the voice that was speaking to me. And when I turned I saw seven golden lampstands, and among the lampstands was someone like a son of man, dressed in a robe reaching down to his feet and with a golden sash round his chest. The hair on his head was white like wool, as white as snow, and his eyes were like blazing fire. His feet were like bronze glowing in a furnace, and his voice was like the sound of rushing waters. In his right hand he held seven stars, and coming out of his mouth was a sharp, double-edged sword. His face was like the sun shining in all its brilliance. When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. Then he placed his right hand on me and said: ‘Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last. I am the Living One; I was dead, and now look, I am alive for ever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and Hades. ‘Write, therefore, what you have seen, what is now and what will take place later. The mystery of the seven stars that you saw in my right hand and of the seven golden lampstands is this: the seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands are the seven churches.

What does it mean to truly hear God's voice in a world drowning in noise? Apostle Dr. Dana Carson unpacked the profound parable of the sower, revealing that the Kingdom of God isn't about territory or prosperity—it's fundamentally a conversation. Beginning with Adam and Eve in the garden, Dr. Carson showed how hearing impacts vision, vision shapes behavior, and behavior determines outcomes. When our first parents stopped hearing God and started listening to Satan, their perspective shifted, leading to devastating consequences that echo through generations. Dr. Carson warned that we live in the era of Laodicea, where Jesus stands at the door knocking, seeking those who can still hear His voice above culture's clamor. He identified four types of hearts: wayside ground (hard and knowing), stony ground (emotional but shallow), thorny ground (alive but unfruitful), and good soil (consistently productive). The sobering reality? Our spiritual productivity reveals the condition of our hearts. Those who truly hear don't just receive the word—they yield crops of thirty, sixty, and a hundredfold. The kingdom demands our complete attention because hearing loss leads to spiritual dementia, isolation, and dangerous vulnerability. This isn't a game—it's a serious kingdom where your ability to discern God's voice determines your eternal destiny and present fruitfulness. Stop playing with partial hearing. Tune your heart to heaven's frequency now.

The modern Christian church has not merely drifted, it has fallen. It has not simply updated its methods, it's abandoned its message. The church that once stood on the street corner and thundered, “Jesus Christ Is The Answer!” has now become a religious focus group asking the world, “What's the question?” That is not progress, that's apostasy. The Bible says there would be a falling away before the time of the end, and we are watching it unfold in real time with pastors leading prayer over a golden statue of Donald Trump.“Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first,” 2 Thessalonians 2:3 (KJB)“As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent. Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.” Revelation 3:19,20 (KJB)On this episode of the Prophecy News Podcast, Paul did not warn that the last days would be marked by empty church buildings only. He warned of something far more deceptive: churches full of people, full of activity, full of money, full of programs, full of branding, full of music, full of “community,” and yet void of Bible truth. That is the true horror of Laodicea. It doesn't look dead to the world, it looks successful. The Laodicean Church in Revelation 3 is not poor in money, it's poor in truth. It is not naked in fashion, it's naked in righteousness. It is not blind in technology, it's blind in doctrine. It doesn't lack confidence, it lacks Christ, JESUS Christ. The last days church has no need of the King James Bible because it has a hundred modern, and differing, translations. It has no need of preaching because it has TED Talk sermonettes. It has no need of hymns because it has worship bands and fog machines. It has no need of repentance because it has therapy. It has no need of doctrine because it has “conversation”, “sharing your feelings” and “coping classes”. It has no need of biblical separation because it wants cultural relevance. It has no need of prophecy because it has purpose-driven optimism. We need more negative preaching. It has no need of the old paths because it has market research. But worst of all, it has no need of Jesus Christ standing in the midst, because it has built a church system where He is outside the door, knocking to get back in. Today you show you, in no uncertain terms, the unimaginable depth of the falling away, and the chaotic condition of the last days and lukewarm Laodicean Church.

In the first century AD, the church at Laodicea seemed to have it all. They had some measure of acceptance in their city, some influence, some worldly wealth. Yet they were not pleasing to their Lord. Their Christianity was respectable in the eyes of the world, but it was disgusting to Jesus. Listen as Pastor Ethan Brown preaches on Revelation 3:14–22, calling our attention to three problems (bad worship, bad riches, bad witness) and one answer: the love of Christ. Part of a series on the book of Revelation. From Sunday Worship, May 10, 2026. ------------------------------- allsoulspca.org All Souls (Urbana, IL) is a part of the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA), a Christian, Reformed denomination with historic and theological roots in the Protestant Reformation.

Audio Recording Gospel People Rev. Scott Strickman Download Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott StrickmanSermon Series: Maturing in ChristColossians 4:7-18 (ESV)7 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.”18 I, Paul, write this greeting with my own hand. Remember my chains. Grace be with you.Sermon OutlineThe good news draws you in to the life of Christ where ordinary people are transformed by the extraordinary grace of Christ.1. Gospel Messagev12 …struggling on your behalf in his prayers, that you may stand mature and fully assured in all the will of God. 2. Gospel Workersv10 Aristarchus my fellow prisoner greets you, and Mark the cousin of Barnabasv14 Luke the beloved physician greets you, as does Demas. 3. Gospel Peoplev16 … also read the letter from Laodicea.vv7-9 Tychicus… that you may know how we are and that he may encourage your heartsvv12 Epaphras… a servant of Christ Jesus, greets you…v9 …with him Onesimus, our faithful and beloved brother; v18 remember my chainsPrayer of ConfessionAlmighty God, full of glory and abounding with grace: thank you that you are so patient and merciful with us. We continue to try to make you more like us, yet resist your work to make us more like you. We are slow to believe and understand. Forgive us for not treating others consistently with the grace we have received. Forgive us for when we have strayed from faithfulness because we dreaded hardship or have been lured by what seemed instantly rewarding. We have lacked the humility and wisdom to embrace the call to be servants of Christ. Forgive every sin. Please continue the work of sanctification by the grace of Jesus Christ until we are brought to maturity and completion. Amen.Questions for ReflectionWhat value could there be in a book of the Bible ending with greetings between people we know little about? Why is that part of the Bible?If part of the work of the early Christians was to show how God's will is made known in Jesus, what are we supposed to know? How does our understanding of life expand as we look to Jesus? What are some implications of our need to mature in Christ? What expectations or understandings follow from it?What value is there that the book of Colossians was written by someone who was in prison? What does it tell us about the one writing and the world in which he lives? How can we understand that Paul, John Mark and Barnabas had a strong disagreement even though they were leaders in the church? What are reasonable expectations for church leaders?What is the difference between the letters Paul wrote which became part of the New Testament and other letters he wrote (which we don't have access to)?What value is there in Paul referring to himself and Tychicus as servants (slaves) of Christ? Why does Paul call Tychicus a fellow servant, Aristarchus a fellow prisoner, and Onesimus a beloved brother?Why is it important to see that the story of Jesus is not just about a man born in poverty who faced hardship and yet attained to being a king, but that he was a prince who willingly gave up everything and became a servant before these things? What does this imply about the identity, attitude and expectations of those who answer the call to follow him?

Audio Recording Gospel People Rev. Scott Strickman Download Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott StrickmanSermon Series: Maturing in ChristColossians 4:7-18 (ESV)7 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.”18 I, Paul, write this greeting with my own hand. Remember my chains. Grace be with you.Sermon OutlineThe good news draws you in to the life of Christ where ordinary people are transformed by the extraordinary grace of Christ.1. Gospel Messagev12 …struggling on your behalf in his prayers, that you may stand mature and fully assured in all the will of God. 2. Gospel Workersv10 Aristarchus my fellow prisoner greets you, and Mark the cousin of Barnabasv14 Luke the beloved physician greets you, as does Demas. 3. Gospel Peoplev16 … also read the letter from Laodicea.vv7-9 Tychicus… that you may know how we are and that he may encourage your heartsvv12 Epaphras… a servant of Christ Jesus, greets you…v9 …with him Onesimus, our faithful and beloved brother; v18 remember my chainsPrayer of ConfessionAlmighty God, full of glory and abounding with grace: thank you that you are so patient and merciful with us. We continue to try to make you more like us, yet resist your work to make us more like you. We are slow to believe and understand. Forgive us for not treating others consistently with the grace we have received. Forgive us for when we have strayed from faithfulness because we dreaded hardship or have been lured by what seemed instantly rewarding. We have lacked the humility and wisdom to embrace the call to be servants of Christ. Forgive every sin. Please continue the work of sanctification by the grace of Jesus Christ until we are brought to maturity and completion. Amen.Questions for ReflectionWhat value could there be in a book of the Bible ending with greetings between people we know little about? Why is that part of the Bible?If part of the work of the early Christians was to show how God's will is made known in Jesus, what are we supposed to know? How does our understanding of life expand as we look to Jesus? What are some implications of our need to mature in Christ? What expectations or understandings follow from it?What value is there that the book of Colossians was written by someone who was in prison? What does it tell us about the one writing and the world in which he lives? How can we understand that Paul, John Mark and Barnabas had a strong disagreement even though they were leaders in the church? What are reasonable expectations for church leaders?What is the difference between the letters Paul wrote which became part of the New Testament and other letters he wrote (which we don't have access to)?What value is there in Paul referring to himself and Tychicus as servants (slaves) of Christ? Why does Paul call Tychicus a fellow servant, Aristarchus a fellow prisoner, and Onesimus a beloved brother?Why is it important to see that the story of Jesus is not just about a man born in poverty who faced hardship and yet attained to being a king, but that he was a prince who willingly gave up everything and became a servant before these things? What does this imply about the identity, attitude and expectations of those who answer the call to follow him?

A sermon from Revelation 3:14-22Speaker: Nathan Workman

Today, we look at the cause of all of Israel's problems in the Book of Judges. Though, at first glance it doesn't appear that way due to the victory they had on the mountain! But that's the essence of Laodicea: we can be so caught up on our victories that we miss where it counts the most - in the valley.

Revelation 1:9–20 9 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.”12 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.

May 3, 2026 AM - That Church: Laodicea - "I'm Fine"Pastor Amanda Crabb

In our 33rd episode of “Men Who Understood the Times,” we study Revelation 3:14-22 – The modern Church wants to be nice: 1. The importance of Laodicea; 2. The Amen and true witness; 3. Lukewarm Christianity that desires to be nice; 4. Buy gold, white garments, and salve; 5. Take this seriously and repent; 6. Jesus is standing at the door and knocking; 7. Sitting with Jesus on his throne. “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. 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.” Continue the conversation with comments or questions: pastor@lordoflords.org 

A STATUE of the goddess Athena has been discovered among the ruins of Laodicea—the site of the church Jesus said he would vomit out of his mouth. This is a fitting symbol for the world today. Athena is one manifestation of the ancient Sumerian goddess Inanna, a gender-fluid entity of sex and violence. If you've paid attention to the news over the last decade, you can see why we believe Inanna is the spirit of the age. Further, her descriptions in Sumerian texts are consistent with that of the woman in scarlet called Babylon the Great in Revelation 17. Although there has been pushback against the woke gender agenda by the Trump administration and a few other places around the world, Donald Trump won't be president forever. It's our mission to use this reprieve to share the gospel while we can.  We also discuss the ever-increasing calls for “disclosure” of government UFO files and the tragic death of paranormal writer and broadcaster David Wilcock this week at the age of 53. Here's the video we referred to of the legendary Charles Laughton reciting the story of Shadrach, Meshech, and Abednego from the third chapter of Daniel on The Ed Sullivan Show: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vmIcQTA1iu0 Sharon's niece, Sarah Sachleben, is fighting stage 4 bowel cancer, and the medical bills are piling up. If you are led to help, please go to GilbertHouse.org/hopeforsarah. Follow us! X (formerly Twitter): @pidradio | @sharonkgilbert | @derekgilbert | @gilberthouse_tvTelegram: t.me/gilberthouse | t.me/sharonsroom | t.me/viewfromthebunkerSubstack: gilberthouse.substack.comYouTube: @GilbertHouse | @UnravelingRevelationFacebook.com/pidradio JOIN US IN ISRAEL! We will tour the Holy Land October 11–23, 2026 with an optional three-day extension to Jordan. For more information, log on to GilbertHouse.org/travel. Thank you for making our Build Barn Better project a reality! Our 1,200 square foot pole barn has a new HVAC system, epoxy floor, 100-amp electric service, new windows, insulation, lights, and ceiling fans! If you are so led, you can help out by clicking here: gilberthouse.org/donate. Get our free app! It connects you to this podcast, our weekly Bible studies, and our weekly video programs Unraveling Revelation and A View from the Bunker. The app is available for iOS, Android, Roku, and Apple TV. Links to the app stores are at pidradio.com/app. Video on demand of our best teachings! Stream presentations and teachings based on our research at our new video on demand site: gilberthouse.org/video! Think better, feel better! Our partners at Simply Clean Foods offer freeze-dried, 100% GMO-free food and delicious, vacuum-packed fair trade coffee from Honduras. Find out more at GilbertHouse.org/store/.

Do you ever feel ordinary? Like you're just not the kind of person God uses for big things? In this episode, Brian From digs into one of the most overlooked verses in the New Testament — James's reminder that Elijah was "just a human being, like us" — and unpacks what it means that God chooses to do extraordinary things through completely ordinary people. From there, Brian turns to one of Scripture's most sobering passages: Jesus's letter to the church in Laodicea. Wealthy, self-sufficient, and spiritually lukewarm — sound familiar? Brian draws a pointed parallel to the American church today and asks the uncomfortable question: are we the church in Laodicea? Along the way, Brian also explores Russell Moore's provocative idea of the "casinofication" of the church, a striking new study on the rise of "no contact" relationships in America, a genuinely murky ethical question about a family using an AI clone to shield an elderly mother from the death of her son, and why a Relevant Magazine piece about new Christians and microphones might be the most important thing the church needs to hear right now. And he closes with a surprising strategy for finishing well as a Christian — one you probably won't see coming.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

At the time of Diocletian's persecutions, he was a very old man, having served as a reader for sixteen years, then a deacon for twenty-eight years, and finally as a priest for thirty years, for a total of seventy-four years. The pagan judge put him in the Temple of Aesculapius, where large snakes were kept and worshiped as gods. Though the judge meant for Artemon to be attacked by the snakes, the holy priest immobilized them with the sign of the Cross, brought them out of the temple and, in front of the pagan priests, breathed on the snakes, which died instantly. The chief priest, Vitalis, fell to his knees and cried 'Great is the Christian God!' Artemon baptised him along with several of his friends.   The unrepentant judge then condemned Artemon to be thrown into burning pitch, but the judge himself was thrown off his horse into the pitch and died. After this, Artemon went free for a time and spent his time teaching the Faith to his people ("accompanied always by two tame deer," says St Nikolia Velimirovic!). But he was arrested again and beheaded in the year 303.