Podcasts about Lazarus

Mary and Martha were some of Jesus' closest friends, yet when their brother becomes seriously ill, he makes no effort to get there in time to save him. What do we do when we feel disappointment with God? How do we reconcile our beliefs when we can't make sense of our circumstances?

Motion Church | Victor, Week 4: "I Get To" Closing out the Victor series, this week's message is delivered by Motion Church youth pastor Chris Johnson — "The Bishop" — and he's upfront from the jump: buckle up. "This is one of those sermons we are all gonna walk out here today with some hurt feet, myself included. My toes were stepped on consistently when I was writing this for the past two and a half weeks." After recapping the series — victims ask why, victors ask what; victims claim no control, victors control what they can and trust God with the rest; victims spend their lives surviving, victors invest their lives with purpose — week four lands on the final and perhaps most personal difference of all: language. "Before victim mindset shows up in your actions, it usually shows up in our words." The difference between a victim and a victor often comes down to two small words: have to versus get to. "We hear things like, I have to go to work. I have to go to church. I have to worship. I have to pray. And after a while, we stop sounding grateful and we start sounding burdened." The message draws from two scenes involving Mary and Martha. In Luke 10, Jesus visits their home. Mary sits at his feet. Martha is in the kitchen, distracted and frustrated — "must be nice to just sit at the feet of Jesus." The real diagnosis? "Your problem isn't the work. Your problem is your perspective." Martha and Mary were in the same house, with the same Jesus, at the same moment — but they experienced him completely differently. "Mary saw Jesus as privilege. Martha saw Jesus as an interruption." The warning is sharp: "Some of us have become Martha spiritually. Church became an obligation. Worship became routine. Prayer became duty." And here's what makes that dangerous — "the victim's mindset doesn't always look broken. Sometimes it looks productive." Then fast-forward to John 11, when Lazarus is dead and Martha confronts Jesus: "If you had been here, my brother would not have died." Victims identify with loss and push resurrection into the future — I will be healed one day. My marriage will be fixed one day. But victors understand that God is the God of the now. "Did I not tell you that if you believe you will see the glory of God?" Even in the middle of real grief, the issue isn't the pain — "the issue is what grief convinces us to believe." Victims eventually start identifying with the grave. "Eventually, we start decorating places God is calling us out of. But Jesus never called us to live in graves. He called us out of them." And when Jesus called Lazarus out, he didn't call him "the dead man." He called him by name. "It's not what they call you, but it's how I identify you." A personal story brings it home — Chris shares how his wife Tiffany, walking into a chemotherapy appointment, was smiling despite knowing what lay ahead. A nurse, seeing that smile, asked: "Is that real?" Tiffany's answer? "I can't change anything. But I'm here. I know who I serve." The nurse replied, "I know who you serve." That's what victory looks like. The message closes with a simple shift that changes everything: "No, you don't have to go to church. You get to enter the presence of God. You don't have to worship. You get to lift your voice after everything hell tried to throw at you. You don't have to pray. You get to approach boldly the throne of grace. You don't have to forgive. You get to let go of the things that have been poisoning your spirit." I get to. And then, in a moment that brought the house to its feet — after the message, Pastor Andy officially ordained Chris Johnson as a minister of the gospel of Jesus Christ. "A little over a year ago, the Lord really put Chris on my heart." Recognizing the anointing on his life, his heart for the house, his love for God's Word, and his growth in the gift of pastor and teacher, the ordination was a stake in the ground — a marker for Chris to return to on the hard days. "We're driving the stake in the sand. Chris, from this day forward, you're ordained." The church prayed over him and his wife Tiffany, believing that "the call of God is on his life, and that God is gonna continue to use him in incredible ways."

Sermon by SI Emery The Rich Man & Lazarus Stoneboro Allegheny Wesleyan Methodist Camp 1957 www.ihconvention.com

On this episode of The Bandwich Tapes, I sit down with bassist Tim Lefebvre for a conversation about groove, adaptability, tone, and what it really means to serve the music. Tim has built one of the most distinctive and wide-ranging careers in modern bass playing, with credits spanning jazz, rock, pop, experimental music, and singer-songwriter projects. From David Bowie's Blackstar to Tedeschi Trucks Band, Wayne Krantz, and countless sessions in between, Tim has become one of those rare players whose sound is unmistakable yet fits almost anywhere.We begin by talking about his 2026 so far, which includes recording work, short touring runs, a date with Nate Smith and Jason Lindner, upcoming shows in Italy with Tiziano Ferro, and a tour with Melissa Etheridge. From there, we get into one of the central tensions of a working musician's life: how to bring your own identity to a project while still honoring the artist, the songs, and the original recordings. Tim has strong instincts here, and he speaks with great clarity about choosing simplicity, resisting overplaying, and understanding what the music actually needs.One of my favorite parts of this conversation is hearing Tim talk about some of the landmark experiences in his career. We discuss the Bryan Adams tour, the joy of playing huge songs in front of large crowds, and then spend time on David Bowie's Blackstar, including how Tim approached the sessions, how much of the rhythmic language was already implied in Bowie's demos, and how some of the bass textures on songs like “Lazarus” emerged naturally in the room. Tim also reflects on the creative freedom and trust inside Tedeschi Trucks Band, and what it felt like to be part of a band that could take real improvisational chances in front of thousands of people.Along the way, we talk gear, compression, pedals, picks, strings, remote recording, favorite drummers, the differences between New York and Los Angeles, sobriety, and some of the bass players who shaped his ear early on, including James Jamerson, Paul McCartney, Darryl Jones, Marcus Miller, Victor Bailey, Jaco Pastorius, and Tony Levin. This is a conversation about craft, but also about judgment, restraint, and learning to make the right choice in the moment.Key TakeawaysTim Lefebvre talks about balancing personal identity with the responsibility of serving the artist, the arrangement, and the song.He shares stories from the making of David Bowie's Blackstar, including how parts of “Lazarus” developed in the studio.Tim reflects on the musical and emotional intensity of playing with Tedeschi Trucks Band and the freedom that the group allowed onstage.He discusses his early path from saxophone to bass, his father's influence, and learning on real gigs at a young age.The conversation explores how bass playing varies with the drummer and what Tim listens for when locking in with someone new.Tim also gets into gear, including pick playing, flats versus rounds, bass compression, distortion, reverb, and how pedals can shape creative ideas.We talk openly about sobriety, professional growth, and how life experience changes the way a musician shows up on and off the bandstand.Music from the EpisodeAnyhow - Tedeschi Trucks BandShake Loose - Donny McCaslinIt's No Fun Not to Like Pop - Krantz/Carlock/LefebvreHanging On - KnowerBlackstar - David BowieAbout the PodcastThe Bandwich Tapes is a podcast where I sit down with musicians, songwriters, producers, and creative people for thoughtful conversations about craft, collaboration, career, and the experiences that shape a life in music. It is a show about process, perspective, and the human side of making art.Connect with the Showcontact@thebandwichtapes.com

In John 11, Jesus raises Lazarus from the dead and reveals one of the most powerful “I Am” statements in the Gospel of John: “I am the resurrection and the life.” This message from The Source series looks at the seventh public sign in John's Gospel and shows how the resurrection of Lazarus points to the authority of Jesus over death, the hope of eternal life, and the freedom He brings to those who believe.Before Jesus raises Lazarus, He delays, He weeps, and He enters the grief of Mary and Martha. This passage reminds us that Jesus is not distant from our pain, but He is also not defeated by it. He is the Source of life, and when He calls our name, dead things come alive.In this sermon, Pastor Josh Brown teaches through John 11 and explores what it means to live the resurrected life. The resurrected life is not only about a future resurrection; it is about hope, freedom, and new life in Christ right now. Jesus does not simply promise resurrection someday. He is resurrection and life today.If you are walking through grief, delay, disappointment, fear, or spiritual bondage, this message will encourage you to believe again. Lazarus walked out of the tomb still wrapped in grave clothes, and Jesus told the people around him, “Unbind him, and let him go.” In Christ, we are raised to life and called into freedom.Join us as we continue The Source series through the Gospel of John and discover how Jesus is the living water, the bread of life, the light of the world, the good shepherd, and the resurrection and the life.Scripture: John 11:1–46Series: The SourceSpeaker: Pastor Josh BrownChurch: Overflow ChurchTopics: John 11, Lazarus, Jesus raises Lazarus, I am the resurrection and the life, resurrection power, living hope, freedom in Christ, Gospel of John, the seventh sign in John, Jesus has authority over death, The Source series, Overflow Church, Pastor Josh BrownSupport the show

Travel Light: Character Identification, John 11:33-45, Pastor Jeff McVay

WHAT HAPPENS IN THIS EPISODE? Jesus teaches on prayer. Keep praying. Don't give up. The prayers of a Pharisee and a tax collector. “Those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” Parable of the landowner who hires help for his vineyard. He pays everyone the same, regardless of how long they worked. “So those who are last now will be first then, and those who are first will be last.” Jesus goes to his friend Lazarus to “wake him up.” He raises him from death to live again. The Sanhedrin plots a way to kill Jesus. SCRIPTURES USED IN THIS EPISODE: Luke 18:1-14 Matthew 20:1-16 John 11:1-54 FIND US ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JesusStoriesThePodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jesus_stories_the_podcast/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/JesusStoriesPod YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gXqA5H3HdRA&list=PLOT9Cm5P1tsQp1U8cEilDk5icjxE55KA8 SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS: Savorista Coffee: https://savorista.com/discount/STORIESDEAL Hero Care Packages: https://herocarepackages.com/discount/STORIESDEAL Photos: https://gtPhotos.pixels.com HAVE YOU SUBSCRIBED TO JESUS STORIES? Subscribing helps us to understand who is listening to us. You'll always know when a new episode is available, too. A win for both of us! Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

Send us Fan Mail[“He shall save his people.” That one word forces a decision: is the cross a hopeful offer that might work, or the effectual work of Jesus Christ that actually saves? We take Matthew 1:21 and John 10 seriously and argue that Christ is not “freestyling” with his blood. If the Son comes to do the Father's will, then redemption is not a spiritual experiment. It is a finished rescue that brings a complete, reconciled people home.We also slow down on the way John 3:16 is often quoted and ask the next question out loud: how does anyone come to believe at all? From effectual calling to regeneration, we walk through vivid biblical pictures, Paul knocked off course, Lazarus commanded out of the grave, and “new creation” as life spoken into nothingness. Along the way we connect Acts 13:48, the parable of the sower, and the reality that God prepares the soil of the heart. This is a conversation about sovereign grace, salvation by grace through faith, and the Holy Spirit's power to quicken the spiritually dead.Then we face the objection from Romans 3: “What if some did not believe?” Our answer is Paul's: God forbid. Human faithlessness cannot invalidate God's promises, because his covenant rests on his character, not our consistency. We also talk assurance and perseverance of the saints, why “losing salvation” would mean Christ casts out someone he promised to keep, and why that changes the way we preach the gospel without shame.If this challenged you or strengthened your confidence, subscribe, share the episode with a friend, and leave a review. What verse most shapes how you think about faith, grace, and assurance?]Support the showBE PROVOKED AND BE PERSUADED!

Disculpen nuestra dislexia, despiste, confusión, les traemos el episodio correcto: ¡Volvimos con más! Ya saben, tarde pero seguro les traemos las noticias (que ya todo el mundo sabe) sobre el mundo del anime, polémicas, expos, los Coreanos que se enfurecieron con latinoamérica y especialmente les platicaremos nuestras opiniones sobre las premiaciones del #crunchyrollawards2026. Lloramos en español, pero lamentamos algunos premios (hablamos de ti Lazarus), y sin temor a ser funados, ya saben que pueden escucharnos en todas nuestras plataformas de audio ¿Qué les parecieron las premiaciones? Déjenlo en los comentarios. ¡Pícale play y MÉTETE KUDASAI!Síguenos en nuestras redes sociales: https://linktr.ee/yametetekudasaiLas opiniones de este programa son los gustos personales por el cringe de Alex, Jojos y Lucy_A

AI is no longer just a tool creators use to make content faster. It is beginning to reshape the entire creator economy. Revan Lazarus is the founder of Jamie, an AI platform for podcast networks and digital sales teams. He joins Infinite Loops, guest-hosted by Nick Tawil, to discuss how AI is changing podcasting, media sales, audience analytics, creator monetization, brand deals, and the future of content itself. Important Links: Learn more about Jamie AI: https://www.jamie-ai.com/

On today's episode, we discuss an “Open Line Wednesday” Bible study where the regular crew explores John 11 and the story of Lazarus alongside the Old Testament account of Jonah. The hosts dig into Jesus' delay in coming to Bethany, the symbolism of Lazarus being dead for three days, and how this miracle serves as a precursor and teaching tool for understanding Jesus' own resurrection. They also unpack the dialogue between Jesus, Martha, and Mary, wrestling with statements like “I am the resurrection and the life” and what it means to “live even though they die,” using both layperson analogies and pastoral insight. From there, the conversation widens to the roles of Pharisees and Sadducees, the development of resurrection doctrine, and how interactions with traditions like Zoroastrianism may have pushed Jewish thinkers to clarify beliefs about the afterlife. Throughout, the tone is conversational and sometimes humorous, but the core aim is helping listeners connect biblical texts, historical context, and theology in a more coherent, practical way. Don't miss it!

Featuring: Jeff Archey

Jared Green, the pulpit minister at the Calvert City Church of Christ in Calvert City, KY continues our Summer Series on the life-changing teachings of Jesus with the story of the Rich Man & Lazarus.

On this week’s Mad Men Men, we dig into "Lady Lazarus." The Season 5 midpoint where Don starts to realize the world is moving faster than he can follow. But also, Megan finally reveals what she truly wants. And Pete mistakes desire for destiny in the most Pete Campbell way possible. If you’re new here, Mad Men Men covers Mad Men from three angles. First, we have a first-time watcher. Then, we have a first-time rewatcher. Finally, we have one man who turned Don Draper into a weekly podcast problem. EXTRA CREDITS Matthew Weiner created Mad Men, which aired on AMC from 2007 to 2015. The show stars Jon Hamm, January Jones, Elisabeth Moss, Vincent Kartheiser, Christina Hendricks, John Slattery, Robert Morse, and many more. Our intro music is “Mad Men Men” by Tom Davidson, which is an original remix of the show’s opening theme “A Beautiful Mine” by RJD2. Podcast illustration is by Jon Negroni. Our podcast hosts include Jon Negroni (Podcast Editor of InBetweenDrafts), Will Ashton (cohost of the Thank God For Movies podcast), and Michael Overhulse (a guy who’s addicted to working at startups). We’ll be back soon to discuss Season 5 Episode 9, titled “Dark Shadows.” Subscribe to Mad Men Men on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or wherever else podcasts are, ahem, advertised.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we're talking about what it means to live fully alive in Jesus — not distracted, not numb, not ruled by fear, and not stuck in unbelief that better days are possible. Life is too short to spend it chasing temporary praise, burying your gifts, avoiding obedience, or letting distraction steal the joy that is found in God's presence.This conversation is a call back to hope. Back to love. Back to awareness of the nearness of Jesus. From Martha being distracted, to Mary pouring out what others called “waste,” to Lazarus walking out of the grave, we are reminded that Jesus is not only the resurrection — He is the life.Pouring your life out for Jesus is never a waste. Even if people misunderstand it. Even if it costs you. Even if it looks foolish. The only wasted life is the one spent apart from Him.So if you've been distracted, discouraged, fearful, or feeling like you've lost your joy — come home. There is fullness of joy in His presence, and there is still life to be lived faithfully.Support the show

Jesus warns of the danger of spiritual blindness. The tragedy in this parable is not wealth itself, but the failure to see the suffering right in front of us. The Kingdom calls us to notice the overlooked, to resist indifference, and to align our hearts with God's concern for the vulnerable.⚫CONNECT WITH US:

WHEN GOD SEEMS SILENT |  JUNE 7, 2026Pastor Wes Morris Psalm 13:1-6 (NIV) How long, Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me? How long must I wrestle with my thoughts and day after day have sorrow in my heart? How long will my enemy triumph over me?Look on me and answer, Lord my God. Give light to my eyes, or I will sleep in death, and my enemy will say, “I have overcome him,” and my foes will rejoice when I fall.But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation. I will sing the Lord's praise, for he has been good to me.√  WHEN GOD SEEMS SILENT, WE START ASSUMING INSTEAD OF TRUSTING. Psalm 13:1 (NIV) How long, Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me? John 11:5-6 (NIV) Now Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus. So when he heard that Lazarus was sick, he stayed where he was two more days.John 11:21 (NIV) “Lord,” Martha said to Jesus, “if you had been here, my brother would not have died.” √  WHEN GOD SEEMS SILENT, OUR EMOTIONS GET LOUD. Psalm 13:2 (NIV) How long must I wrestle with my thoughts and day after day have sorrow in my heart?√  WHEN GOD SEEMS SILENT, THE STRUGGLE CAN BECOME ALL WE SEE.Psalm 13:2 (NIV) How long will my enemy triumph over me?Psalm 13:5-6 (TLB) But I will always trust in you and in your mercy and will rejoice in your salvation. I will sing to the Lord because he has blessed me so richly.Before God changes what's around you, He often changes what's happening inside you.WHEN GOD SEEMS SILENTI. ASK GOD TO HELP YOU SEE WITH A FRESH PERSPECTIVE. Psalm 13:3 (NIV) Look on me and answer, Lord my God. Give light to my eyes...Psalm 119:105 (NIV) Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.II. KEEP TRUSTING GOD‘S CHARACTER.Hebrews 10:23 (NLT) Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we profess, for God can be trusted to keep his promise.III. KEEP TAKING THE NEXT STEP.Psalm 37:23 (NLT) The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives.

Drop us a note about the podcast. A story about death turns into a story about trust and it gets personal fast. We open with John 11 and the moment Jesus stops using gentle words and says it plainly: “Lazarus is dead.” From there, we slow down and ask the question most of us avoid when life hurts: what do we do with God's timing when it feels late, silent, or even unfair?We walk through Martha and Mary's grief, Jesus's promise that he is “the resurrection and the life,” and the short verse that still hits like a punch: “Jesus wept.” We talk about what that means for real Christian faith, not just church language. If Jesus can stand at a tomb, feel sorrow and anger, and still call life back out of death, then belief is more than optimism it's allegiance. We also wrestle with Thomas's blunt courage and ask whether we're willing to follow Christ when obedience actually costs something.From there, we broaden the lens to prayer for our listeners, our marriages, and our nation, plus the uncomfortable cultural friction points that show up when we read Scripture out loud. We touch current headlines, public safety, and the moral weight of policy choices, then share plans for a sister podcast that will go deeper on Christianity and America, including the Christian roots of early education and the claim that liberty weakens when Christ is pushed out of learning.If this resonates, subscribe, share the show with a friend, and leave a review so more people can find it. What part of John 11 challenges your faith the most right now?#AmericanPatriot#ChristianNation#HarvardSupport the showThe American Soul Podcasthttps://www.buzzsprout.com/1791934/subscribeCountryside Book Serieshttps://www.amazon.com/Countryside-Book-J-T-Cope-IV-ebook/dp/B00MPIXOB2 

Ben Burgis is joined by Michael Lazarus (author of "Absolute Ethical Life: Aristotle, Hegel and Marx") and Matt McManus (who needs no introduction to GTAA fans) for a fun three-way exchange on "analytical Marxism" (the tradition Ben works in), Michael's more Hegel-inflected version of Marxism, and Matt's sympathies with both sides.Order Michael's book:https://www.sup.org/books/politics/absolute-ethical-lifeFollow Michael on Twitter: @Mblaz39Follow Matt on Twitter: @MattPolProfFollow Ben on Twitter @JacobinBen [NOTE: The previous account was hacked!]Follow GTAA on Twitter: @Gtaa_ShowBecome a GTAA Patron and receive numerous benefits ranging from occasional patron-exclusive content to access to the GTAA Discord to our undying love and gratitude for helping us keep this thing going:patreon.com/benburgisRead the weekly philosophy Substack:benburgis.substack.com

Monday of the 10th Week in Ordinary Time Saint of the Day: St. Maximinus of Aix; first bishop of Aix, in Provence, France, reportedly one of Christ’s seventy-two disciples and a companion of Saints Mary Magdalen, Mary Cleopas, Martha, and Lazarus; in one account, he is called "the man who had been blind from birth"; Maximinus died in the First Century Office of Readings and Morning Prayer for 6/8/26 Gospel: Matthew 5:1-12

In Luke 16:19–31, Jesus contrasts the rich man and Lazarus, revealing God's upside-down kingdom where worldly success is not the measure of faithfulness. This sermon explores the temptation to admire religious power and cultural influence while reminding Christians that their true hope is found in Christ crucified and risen for the forgiveness of sins. Through His humiliation, death, and resurrection, Jesus rescues sinners from judgment and grants eternal life.

In Romans 6:1-14, we're reminded that freedom is much more than forgiveness—it's freedom from the power of sin itself. Through faith in Jesus, believers are no longer enslaved to their old way of life but are made new through His death and resurrection.Using powerful illustrations from Braveheart, Lazarus' resurrection, and Paul's teaching to the Roman church, this message challenges us to stop making peace with sin and start walking in the victory Christ has already won. If you've ever felt trapped by past struggles, habits, or failures, this sermon offers hope, encouragement, and a call to live in the freedom Jesus provides.

Sermon Outline: "Turn It Around with Praise" I. Introduction: The Battle belongs to God The Multitude and the Response: Reading from 2 Chronicles 20:12, Pastor Rhonda highlights the reality of facing overwhelming situations where we don't know what to do, but our eyes remain fixed on God. The Divine Promise: God's response is clear: do not be afraid or discouraged by the large obstacles, because the battle is not yours, but God's. Corporate Worship: Gathering together on Sundays brings a unique, collective strength. True praise often requires us to do something beyond our comfort zone—giving raw expression to what the Holy Spirit is moving in our hearts. Deeply Personal Praise: Praise shifts and deepens when you have personally walked through the valley, lost loved ones, and seen God's unexpected provision carry you through seasons that should have taken you out. II. Point 1: Praise Shifts the Atmosphere Before the Breakthrough The Trench Metaphor: Reflecting on spirit-filled believers in the midst of the Ukrainian-Russian conflict, journalists noted soldiers singing worship songs in the trenches. They understood an ancient biblical truth: praise is not just what you do after the battle; it's what you deploy before it. Not a Performance: True praise isn't an emotion or a staged show. It has consistently driven God's people from the very beginning—from Abel's unselfish sacrifice in Genesis to the massive, roaring cascade of hallelujahs recorded in Revelation. The Historical Enemy: Throughout human history, oppressive forces (Pharaohs, giants, evil rulers, and hostile regimes) have tried to silence the praise of the church. Yet, the church remains alive, active, and vocal across every time zone. Declaration 1: “I will praise God first.” We must commit to praising Him before the natural circumstances catch up to the spiritual reality—before the doctor calls back, before the child comes home, and before we even check our phones on a Monday morning. III. Point 2: Building a Seat for the King Enthroned in Praise: According to Psalm 22:3, God inhabits and sets up His throne within the praises of His people. Declaration 2: “I will praise God in the middle.” When we choose to praise God right in the center of an unmanifested breakthrough, we are building a dwelling place for Him to sit. The Moving King: When God takes His seat in our praise, the atmosphere changes, chains break, and enemies scatter. He does not merely watch from a distance; He actively moves into the situation. The Noise of His Tabernacle: Citing Job, Pastor Rhonda speaks on the functional "noise" of worship. Just as water vapors rise to create heavy rain clouds, our spoken praise sends an invisible vapor before the throne, causing heaven to open up with a downpour of revival, joy, and new rain over dry places. IV. Point 3: The Divine Wardrobe Exchange Beauty for Ashes: Isaiah 61:3 details a transaction. God doesn't expect you to pile praise on top of your heavy heart; He offers an immediate replacement. You give Him the heaviness, and He hands back a garment of praise. Understanding "Heaviness": In the Hebrew context, the root word for heaviness links to a dimness of sight. A spirit of heaviness blinds you to your future, distorts your value, and makes you lose the desire to move into tomorrow. The Over-the-Head Garment: In ancient culture, a full garment was put on over the head. Symbolically, the garment of praise covers your mind and thoughts first, capturing intrusive despair, before draping over your eyes to restore vision. Morning into Dancing: God rips off the grieving bands and replaces them with a spiritual lightness. Even if you can't physically dance, it brings a stride of joy, a smile that won't quit, and a "whistle-while-you-work" perspective. V. Point 4: Dropping the Grave Clothes The Lazarus Principle: When Jesus called Lazarus out of the tomb, Lazarus emerged alive but was still completely bound from head to toe in his funeral wraps. Jesus had to command the crowd, "Loose him, and let him go." The Wardrobe of Yesterday: Many believers have been brought out of their tombs by God, yet they are still walking around wrapped in the grave clothes of yesterday—draped in old bitterness, the shame of past additions, or a cloak of poverty. A Preview for Others: You must actively stop using yesterday's grave clothes as today's wardrobe. Your freedom and your praise serve as a vital preview to someone else who is still trapped behind a sealed door that you have already walked out of. VI. Conclusion: Deploying Your Weapon A Functional Tool: Praise is operational, not just decorative. When Paul and Silas praised God at midnight while covered in wounds, an earthquake shook the entire prison. Your praise has a massive spiritual radius that can reach situations, jobs, and children miles away. Honesty over Pretending: Praise is not minimizing your pain, lying about your hardships, or pretending everything is fine. It is an intentional declaration that God is vastly bigger than the reality of your suffering. Praise through tears and a quivering voice carries incredible weight in the heavens. The Positioning: Just as King Jehoshaphat was instructed to send the singers, bass players, and drummers out to the very front lines of the camp to declare God's enduring mercy, our primary stance in warfare is to stand still, open our hands, and lead with our worship. Scripture Index Here are the prominent scriptures read, paraphrased, or referenced during the sermon: 2 Chronicles 20:12 > "O our God, wilt thou not judge them? for we have no might against this great company that cometh against us; neither know we what to do: but our eyes are upon thee." 2 Chronicles 20:15 > "...Be not afraid nor dismayed by reason of this great multitude; for the battle is not yours, but God's." 2 Chronicles 20:21-22 (Referenced) – The positioning of the singers at the front of the army to praise the beauty of holiness, causing the Lord to set ambushes against the enemy. Genesis 4:4 (Referenced) – Abel offering an unselfish sacrifice of worship to the Lord. Revelation 19:1-6 (Paraphrased) – The great voice of much people in heaven crying Hallelujah, and the voice out of the throne commanding all small and great servants to praise God, sounding like rushing waters. Psalm 34:1 > "I will bless the Lord at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth." Psalm 119:164 > "Seven times a day do I praise thee because of thy righteous judgments." Psalm 63:3 > "Because thy lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise thee." Psalm 22:3 > "But thou art holy, O thou that inhabitest [enthroned in] the praises of Israel." Job 36:29 > "Also can any understand the spreading of the clouds, or the noise of his tabernacle?" Isaiah 61:3 > "To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness..." Psalm 30:11 > "Thou hast turned for me my mourning into dancing: thou hast put off my sackcloth, and girded me with gladness." John 11:43-44 (Referenced) – Jesus calling Lazarus out of the grave and ordering him to be loosed from his grave clothes. Acts 16:25-26 (Referenced) – Paul and Silas praying and singing praises to God at midnight in prison, triggering a great earthquake that opened all the doors. Numbers 6:24-26 (The Benediction) > "The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace." "Thanks for listening! For more information, visit churchoftheharvest.com. Don't forget to follow us on Facebook and YouTube @cothcleveland.

Mary, the sister of Lazarus, who had been raised from the dead, showed her devotion to Jesus by pouring out an expensive ointment on the feet of Jesus, and wiped it with her hair. Verses: John 12: 1-11 Pastor: Daniel Hendrickson

June 7, 2026

June 7, 2026Today's Reading: Luke 16:19-31Daily Lectionary: Proverbs 4:1-27; John 12:1-19“He said to him, ‘If they do not hear Moses and the Prophets, neither will they be convinced if someone should rise from the dead.'” (Luke 16:31) In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.At first glance, today's reading seems to suggest that life is the luck of the draw. The rich guy had it good during his earthly life, while Lazarus had it rough. And, because it is only fair then, the rich guy has to suffer in eternity, but Lazarus gets to be in comfort. It seems to make sense, right? It's only fair.And yet, this isn't about being poor or rich. This isn't a ‘fair picture' of who gets to have what. Instead, this teaches about the lie of independence and the idolatry of wanting to be your own god. This speaks to the heart of every sinner. The rich man had nice clothes and plenty of food; he lived lavishly. To us sinners who love control,  comfort, and excess, this sounds great! Lazarus, by contrast, suffers continuously. He wishes for crumbs. And yet, all he has are the dogs. When death comes, Lazarus is brought to heaven, and the rich man suffers in torment. Ephesians 2 teaches us that it is, “by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing, it is a gift from God.” We learn that Lazarus had faith. He trusted in His Savior, even in suffering. In Hades, the rich man still wants to control his destiny. He wants a drop of water - he wants some relief; he is told no. He begs that Lazarus be raised from the dead to give his brothers a warning about this eternity of torment. But, his brothers already have the Law - they have the words of Moses and the Prophets. If they will not repent when the Law is taught, they will have no use for someone being risen from the dead. Repent, dear sinner. Do not be deceived by independence, control, or the ability to chase your desires. God's Word of Law is for your good. It reminds you that you are a sinner. Remember that in your Baptism, your Old Adam daily drowns and dies; the New Man daily rises and celebrates the boundaries given by God. The New Man daily rejoices, even in suffering, because even in trials there is hope. Cling to the promises of Jesus, who has risen from the dead for you. In excess and in suffering, you need God's Law and His Gospel. You need to be reminded of your sin and your dependence on God. Rejoice in that reminder - for you have a God who does not spare His only, perfect Son, but abandons Him on the cross for you. You have a Risen Savior who daily forgives your sins and meets your needs. You are not without hope. In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.O God, the strength of all who trust in You, mercifully accept our prayers; and because through the weakness of our mortal nature we can do no good thing, grant us Your grace to keep Your Commandments that we may please You in both will and deed; through Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen. Deac. Sarah Longmire, Curricula Curator for Higher Things and Director of Family Life at St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Lee's Summit, MO.

This week we look at the final piece of the Lazarus story, and the choice between fear and faith. 

What do we do when our most fervent prayers seem to go unanswered? In this week's message, we look at Jesus engagin with Mary and Martha at the graveside of their brother Lazarus.

Continuing his series on Romans, Philip Snell talks about reconciliation and God's saving grace through the blood of Yeshua. He also points out that God's timing is not our timing, as Yeshua made clear in the case of his cousin Lazarus.

Have you ever looked at a promise from God and thought, "I don't think this can happen anymore"?Not because it's delayed.Not because it's taking longer than expected.But because it genuinely looks dead.In this episode, Robert Hotchkin reveals how the revelation of the NOW of God unlocks divine Zoe life for situations that seem beyond hope. Through Jesus' encounter with Martha in John 11, you'll discover a powerful truth: Jesus didn't merely say He could bring dead things back to life. He declared, "I AM the resurrection and the life."What if what looks dead to you is still alive in the Great I AM?Join Robert as he explores how God's present-tense power can bring life to prophetic promises, dreams, callings, relationships, ministries, health, finances, and anything else that appears beyond recovery.In this episode you'll discover:• Why appearances can deceive you when evaluating God's promises• The revelation Jesus gave Martha before Lazarus came out of the tomb• How the NOW of God releases divine Zoe life into seemingly impossible situations• Practical keys to partnering with God's present-tense reality instead of natural circumstancesIf you've been tempted to give up on something God once spoke, promised, or placed in your heart, this episode will remind you of a powerful truth:It's not over yet.

Friday, 5 June 2026   Now Jesus, going up to Jerusalem, took the twelve disciples aside on the road and said to them, Matthew 20:17   “And ascending, the ‘Jesus to Jerusalem', He took twelve disciples apart alone, and in the road, He said to them,” (CG)   In the previous verse, the final thought concerning the parable of the workers in the vineyard was given. With that complete, a new direction takes place, beginning with, “And ascending, the ‘Jesus to Jerusalem'.”   Regardless of the elevation where one is, the Bible always describes the journey to Jerusalem as an ascent. In fact, there are many locations with a higher elevation in the land itself. The highest among them is Mount Hermon in the Golan Heights, which sits at 7,336 feet above sea level.   After that, many peaks are higher than Jerusalem, a few of them are Mount Ha'Ari, Mount Ramon, Mount ‘Arif, Mount ‘Ofa'im, Mount Hilla, Mount Zafrir, and Mount Hillel. These and other points exceed the elevation of the Temple Mount in Jerusalem, which sits at 2,430 feet. Despite this, the trek there is considered an ascent.   Of this trek, Charles Ellicott says, “The narrative is not continuous, and in the interval between Matthew 20:16-17 we may probably place our Lord's ‘abode beyond Jordan' (John 10:40), the raising of Lazarus, and the short sojourn in the city called Ephraim (John 11:54). This would seem to have been followed by a return to Persea, and then the journey to Jerusalem begins.”   If this is correct, it can be found in what is known as a harmonization of the gospels, which several reliable sources have taken the time to put together, showing the exact chronology of events throughout the four gospels. Of this ascent, the narrative continues, saying, “He took twelve disciples apart alone.”   At this time, there were probably many people with them on the trek, but Jesus wanted to specifically provide information to the twelve that the others were not yet to be privy to. Therefore, Matthew continues, “and in the road, He said to them.”   The verse excitedly ends as if a breath is needed before continuing to the precious words of Jesus to His twelve selected apostles.   Life application: It is important to confirm information in commentaries, not taking them at face value until verified and considered in relation to what the Bible says. In John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible, he records the following concerning this verse –   “Which was situated (f) in the highest part of the land of Israel: the land of Israel, is said to be higher than any other land whatever; and the temple at Jerusalem, higher than any part of the land of Israel; wherefore Christ's going to Jerusalem, is expressed by going up to it.”   His footnote says his information was derived from “T. Bab. Sanhedrim, fol. 87. 1.” When John Gill recorded this, in the 1700s, he was using what information was available to him. Unfortunately, the Babylonian Talmud presented him with erroneous information, which has since been passed on to the minds of those who have read it.   At many times, the ascent to Jerusalem is not a physical ascent at all. However, it is always a theological ascent as one moves closer to the point where man meets with the God of Israel. That is why it can be said that a person on Mount Hermon, high above Jerusalem in elevation, will ascend as he makes the trek to Jerusalem.   Remember this as you read the Bible. John Gill certainly didn't intentionally provide wrong information, but for some reason, the compilers of the Babylonian Talmud did. They probably knew what was said was incorrect, but they recorded it anyway.   Understanding that this biblical elevation of Jerusalem is stated as it is, it then becomes more pertinent when considering Paul's words in Galatians –   “For these are the two covenants: the one from Mount Sinai which gives birth to bondage, which is Hagar— 25 for this Hagar is Mount Sinai in Arabia, and corresponds to Jerusalem which now is, and is in bondage with her children— 26 but the Jerusalem above is free, which is the mother of us all.” Galatians 4:24-26   At one point, the city of Jerusalem was considered the pinnacle of elevation because it was where God was dealing with men, interacting with them through temple rites and rituals. That ended with the completed work of Christ. The veil was torn, and access to God through Jesus Christ was made available.   The temple in Jerusalem, which ministers the law of Moses, is not, nor will it ever again be, the pinnacle of God's interactions with man. It is a place of bondage leading to death. It is a place of enmity with God. Wherever Jesus Christ is, that is the place where the spiritual ascent is now realized. That is because He fulfilled the law, set it aside, and introduced the New Covenant in His blood.   To miss this point has led to incredibly bad theology in relation to end times events (eschatology) within the church. People openly applaud the coming construction of the temple in Jerusalem, which will reintroduce sacrifices based on the Law of Moses. It is the very thing Christ came to abolish, and yet Christians actively support this diabolical event. This should not be.   Let us fix our eyes on Jesus alone, mourning over Israel's failure to see the One they have missed for so long. Pray for them. Many will die before their time of realization comes about. Pray to God that eyes will be opened before that tragic day which lies ahead comes upon them.   Lord God, we lift up the lost in the world, knowing that a day of judgment lies ahead for all unless the word gets to them before it arrives. May You work mightily through missionaries, social media, and the simple but effective words of believers around the world to just open their mouths and speak about Your goodness as seen in Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.  

June 5, 2026Today's Reading: John 11:17-37Daily Lectionary: Proverbs 1:8-33; John 11:17-37“I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die.” (John 11:25-26)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.If you've been to a Lutheran Funeral, you have likely heard those words. In the Funeral order, the pastor speaks the words, the congregation speaks the Nunc Dimittis (Lord, now you let your servant go in peace), and then the pastor repeats them. What a blessed comfort. Jesus is the resurrection and the life.  Of course, as Jesus said these words, He proved how true they were by raising Lazarus from the tomb just moments after speaking them. Lazarus had been sick, and the people came to tell Jesus so that He could heal the poor man. Jesus dawdled, Lazarus died. And now Martha, to whom Jesus said this confession, calls Jesus on his delay. “Lord if you had been here my brother wouldn't have died.” “Lord if you had come when we called you, I wouldn't be in this sorrow right now.” “Lord, if only you had done what we asked, this would all be a lot easier.”  But then Jesus comes to the tomb of Lazarus, and what does He do? First, He weeps. Why? He's already told Martha who He is. He's already made the point to Martha that He's going to raise Lazarus. What is this? It's sorrow at death. Death isn't the way it's supposed to be. Death is the consequence of sin and Man not doing what God has told him to do. So death hurts. And Jesus feels it in that moment. He feels it to His core. As I've spoken those words at funerals, I've spoken them in the hearing of loved ones who feel death to their core. I've spoken them to children who have lost parents who have been suffering for years and so are relieved, but still hurt to their core. I've spoken them to parents who lost children far, far too soon, and were rocked to their core. And in all of the cases, the words were still true. This Man who called Lazarus from the tomb entered the tomb for us that first Good Friday, carrying the burden of our sins to that tomb so that He could leave them there on the First Easter, and we could have victory over death by His resurrection.  Christian, when death hurts you to your core, know that it is defeated. Christ is the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in Him, though he die, yet shall he live, and whoever lives and believes in Him will never die.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Christ, the life of all the living, Christ the death of death our foe, Who, Thyself for me once giving, To the darkest depths of woe; Through thy sufferings, death, and merit, I eternal life inherit, Thousand, thousand thanks shall be, Dearest Jesus, unto Thee! (LSB 420:1)Rev. Matthew Zickler, pastor at Grace Lutheran Church, Western Springs, IL.

Mary and Martha, with their brother Lazarus, were especially devoted disciples of our Lord; their story up to the time of the Resurrection can be found in Luke 10 and John 11-12. Mary and Martha were among the Myrrh-bearing women. They, with their brother, reposed in Cyprus, where Lazarus became first Bishop of Kition after he was raised from death by Christ.   An ancient tradition holds that Lazarus was thirty years old when he was restored to life by the Lord, and that he lived another thirty years. After he was raised from the dead, he never again laughed; but once, when he saw someone stealing a clay pot, he smiled and said, 'Clay stealing clay.' His name is a Greek version of Eleazar, meaning 'God has helped.'

In this episode of our Daughters Series, we unpack the powerful story of Mary and Martha and discover why this familiar Bible story still has so much to teach us. We talk about the tension between doing things for Jesus and simply being with Him, the danger of burnout and performance-based faith, and the beautiful invitation Jesus gives every daughter to sit at His feet. We also explore one of the most moving moments in Scripture—Jesus weeping with Mary after the death of Lazarus—and what it reveals about His heart toward our pain, disappointment, and grief. Finally, we look at Mary's extravagant act of worship and uncover a powerful pattern throughout her life: every time we see Mary, she's found at the feet of Jesus. Whether you're feeling busy, burned out, heartbroken, or simply longing for more of God's presence, we hope this conversation reminds you that the posture of a daughter is always found at the feet of Jesus. In This Episode [03:00] Three Defining Moments in Their Story [05:50] Are You a Martha? [08:00] Burnout, Busyness & Christian Performance [12:30] Jesus Wept [16:00] Letting God Into Your Heartbreak [19:00] Mary's Extravagant Worship [20:00] Every Time We See Mary [21:00] The Posture of a Daughter [24:00] Practical Ways to Sit at the Feet of Jesus [27:00] Looking Ahead to Priscilla ORDER OUR NEW STUDY!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ This seven-week, verse-by-verse study through the book of Acts invites you to embrace the unpredictable, sometimes challenging adventure of Spirit-led living that characterized the early church. Delight Ministries Looking for a Delight Chapter near you? Check out⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Delightministries.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to find one. If there's not one near you, and you want to help start one, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠let us know⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! We would love to talk. Get on the list for updates on Kenz's new venture ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Plenty Nutrition⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! Thanks to Our Sponsors ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Winshape⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Learn more or submit your application today⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! The Wonder Project: Subscriber support makes more great content like I Gotta Ask with Annie F. Downs possible. The Wonder Project subscription on Prime Video is available in the U.S. for $8.99/month or $89.99/year after a 7-day free trial. Visit IGottaAsk.com to learn more! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you'd like to partner with For The Girl as a sponsor, fill out our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Advertise With Us⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ form! Follow us!

If you enjoy this episode, we're sure you will enjoy more content like this on The Occult Rejects.  In fact, we have curated playlists on occult topics like grimoires, esoteric concepts and phenomena, occult history, analyzing true crime and cults with an occult lens, Para politics, and occultism in music. 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Trinity Press International, 1996. Key use: Essential source for early Christian architectural adaptation, especially the shift from domestic and semi-domestic gathering spaces toward more specialized Christian buildings. White's work is useful for showing that early Christian architecture develops inside a broader Roman social and architectural world, not in isolation.White, L. Michael. The Social Origins of Christian Architecture, Volume II: Texts and Monuments for the Christian Domus Ecclesiae in Its Environment. Trinity Press International, 1997. Key use: Companion volume for the textual and archaeological evidence behind the domus ecclesiae, early meeting spaces, and the built environment of pre-Constantinian Christianity.Yale University Art Gallery. “Christian Building.” Dura-Europos: Excavating Antiquity. Key use: Strong anchor for the Dura-Europos Christian building and its wall paintings. Yale notes that the Christian paintings were uncovered in 1932 and that Clark Hopkins described the murals as preserved from more than three-quarters of a century before Constantine recognized Christianity in 312.Yale News. “House Call: A New Study Rethinks Early Christian Landmark.” 2024. Key use: Useful cautionary source for not oversimplifying Dura-Europos as merely a domestic “house church.” The report highlights recent scholarship reexamining how domestic the Dura Christian building really was and why its architectural classification needs care.Smarthistory. “Dura-Europos.” Key use: Accessible overview of Dura-Europos as a multicultural Roman frontier site, including the adapted Christian building used as a meeting place and baptistery in the first half of the third century.Peppard, Michael. The World's Oldest Church: Bible, Art, and Ritual at Dura-Europos, Syria. Yale University Press, 2016. Key use: Major source for the Dura-Europos Christian building, its baptistery, biblical imagery, ritual use, and the danger of reading the site too simply through later church categories.Snyder, Graydon F. Ante Pacem: Archaeological Evidence of Church Life Before Constantine. Mercer University Press, revised edition, 2003. Key use: Important archaeological source for Christian life before Constantine, especially material evidence for worship, burial, symbols, and everyday Christian practice before public imperial privilege. Mercer University Press identifies the book as focused on archaeological evidence of church life before Constantine.Jensen, Robin M. Baptismal Imagery in Early Christianity: Ritual, Visual, and Theological Dimensions. Baker Academic, 2012. Key use: Core source for baptismal images, ritual meaning, water, initiation, death and rebirth, and the way visual programs frame baptismal practice.Jensen, Robin M. Understanding Early Christian Art. Routledge, 2000. Key use: Early Christian visual culture, catacomb imagery, baptismal scenes, Good Shepherd imagery, Jonah, Daniel, Lazarus, and the visual language of salvation and resurrection.Ferguson, Everett. Baptism in the Early Church: History, Theology, and Liturgy in the First Five Centuries. Eerdmans, 2009. Key use: Major historical and theological source for baptismal practice, initiation, immersion, anointing, catechesis, and the development of baptismal rites.Johnson, Maxwell E. The Rites of Christian Initiation: Their Evolution and Interpretation. Liturgical Press. Key use: Development of initiation rites, catechumenate, baptism, post-baptismal rites, and how Christian initiation becomes structured over time.Spinks, Bryan D. Early and Medieval Rituals and Theologies of Baptism: From the New Testament to the Council of Trent. Ashgate, 2006. Key use: Long-range ritual and theological development of baptism, useful for tracking how early baptismal space later becomes more formalized.Britannica. “Catacomb.” Key use: Baseline definition of catacombs as subterranean cemeteries composed of galleries or passages with recesses for tombs; useful for correcting the popular misconception that catacombs were primarily secret churches rather than burial landscapes.Stevenson, James. The Catacombs: Rediscovered Monuments of Early Christianity. Thames & Hudson, 1978. Key use: Classic overview of Roman catacombs, burial architecture, inscriptions, symbols, and early Christian memory.Rutgers, Leonard V. Subterranean Rome: In Search of the Roots of Christianity in the Catacombs of the Eternal City. Peeters, 2000. Key use: Catacombs as archaeological and social evidence, including burial practice, community identity, and the relationship between Jews, Christians, and Roman funerary culture.Fiocchi Nicolai, Vincenzo, Fabrizio Bisconti, and Danilo Mazzoleni. The Christian Catacombs of Rome: History, Decoration, Inscriptions. Schnell & Steiner, 2002. Key use: Detailed treatment of catacomb history, inscriptions, burial spaces, and visual programs.Brown, Peter. The Cult of the Saints: Its Rise and Function in Latin Christianity. University of Chicago Press, enlarged edition. Key use: Essential source for the holy dead, saint veneration, relics, tombs, pilgrimage, and the way corporeal remains became central to Christian religious life. The University of Chicago Press describes Brown's work as exploring how worship of saints and their corporeal remains became central to religious life in Western Europe.Brown, Peter. The Body and Society: Men, Women, and Sexual Renunciation in Early Christianity. Columbia University Press, 1988. Key use: Christian body theology, asceticism, holiness, discipline, and why the body is so central to late antique Christian imagination.Yasin, Ann Marie. Saints and Church Spaces in the Late Antique Mediterranean: Architecture, Cult, and Community. Cambridge University Press, 2009. Key use: Churches, saints, relics, cult practice, community identity, and how sacred spaces are organized around holy bodies and memory.Grabar, André. Martyrium: Recherches sur le culte des reliques et l'art chrétien antique. Key use: Classic work on martyr shrines, relic cult, and the relationship between architecture, art, and the holy dead.van Gennep, Arnold. The Rites of Passage. Key use: Separation, liminality, and incorporation. Crucial for baptism, catechumenate, thresholds, initiation, and the movement from outsider to insider.Turner, Victor. The Ritual Process: Structure and Anti-Structure. Key use: Liminality, threshold states, ritual transition, and communitas. Useful for baptism, catacomb descent, martyr devotion, and controlled access.Kilde, Jeanne Halgren. Sacred Power, Sacred Space: An Introduction to Christian Architecture and Worship. Oxford University Press, 2008. Key use: Christian buildings as arrangements of power, worship, divine presence, and embodied access. Useful for thresholds, sanctuary divisions, nave, altar, and congregation.Kieckhefer, Richard. Theology in Stone: Church Architecture from Byzantium to Berkeley. Oxford University Press, 2004. Key use: Church architecture as theology made spatial. Useful for altar, pulpit, nave, threshold, symbolic layout, and worship practice.Krautheimer, Richard. Early Christian and Byzantine Architecture. Yale University Press / Pelican History of Art. Key use: Classic architectural history for early Christian and Byzantine buildings, including the shift from pre-Constantinian spaces to basilicas, baptisteries, martyr shrines, and later monumental forms.Mathews, Thomas F. The Clash of Gods: A Reinterpretation of Early Christian Art. Princeton University Press, 1993. Key use: Early Christian imagery, visual conflict, ritual meaning, and the development of Christian art within the Roman world.Elsner, Jaś. Imperial Rome and Christian Triumph: The Art of the Roman Empire AD 100–450. Oxford University Press, 1998. Key use: Roman visual culture, Christian adaptation, imperial imagery, and the shift into Christian public art and architecture.MacMullen, Ramsay. Christianizing the Roman Empire: A.D. 100–400. Yale University Press, 1984. Key use: Social and historical context for Christian expansion before and after Constantine, useful for understanding how Christian space changes as Christianity grows.Mango, Cyril. Byzantine Architecture. Key use: LonAlso want to remind people about the website, if you're into reading we have tons of information by multiple contributors, and we got t-shirts up on the site if you're interested. Fun fact, the art is all based on the eyeball. A

Common Table's February 22, 2026 sermon. First Sunday in Lent - John 11:1-17 // A World of Pure Imagination w/Drew WillsonWith the death of the Rev. Jesse Jackson, Civil Rights activist and colleague of the Rev. Dr. King, we enter the Lenten season pondering prophetic imagination. What voices will inspire and guide us today as we struggle with truth vs. lies, personal wealth vs. commonwealth, white Christian nationalism vs. the way of Jesus, and so much more? What dream will lead us through the Lenten valley to the heights of Easter glory?Listen as we enter Lent with the story of Lazarus and a song of imagination... straight from Willy Wonka's chocolate factory.

Bishop Jim’s insightful messages help others find THEIR METRON through M~otivation E~nlightenment T~ranscendence R~enewal O~utreach and N~etworking Learn more: www.bishinthenow.com Follow Jim Swilley on Youtube to see the videos live Sundays at 11:11 am – https://www.youtube.com/bishinthenow In this deeply reflective conclusion to the “Align With the Divine” series, Bishop Jim Swilley explores what true spiritual alignment actually looks like when life becomes painful, confusing, and deeply human. Using Jesus' interactions with Peter after betrayal and with Mary and Martha after Lazarus' death, he teaches that alignment is not perfection or emotional denial — it is learning to embrace the full reality of your humanity while remaining grounded in what is authentically true within you. The message centers on foundations: storms reveal what your life is built on, and genuine faith survives not because it avoids questions, but because it has been tested. Through stories about renovating his parents' home, reflections on aging, grief, friendship, Carol Burnett, and even wrestling with modern deconstruction theology, Bishop Jim emphasizes that alignment means integrating every part of your journey — mistakes, doubts, pain, joy, relationships, and spiritual experiences — into a whole and healed self. Main Takeaways 1. Storms Reveal Foundations Bishop Jim centers much of the message around Jesus' teaching about building a house on the rock versus sand. “The idea is adversity reveals your foundation.” — Bishop Jim Swilley Referencing Matthew 7, he explains that rain, wind, and floods expose whether something is authentically built to last. Alignment is not avoiding storms; it is discovering what remains standing afterward. Scripture References: Matthew Luke 2. Alignment Means Embracing Humanity and Divinity Together One of the strongest themes throughout the teaching is that spirituality should never require suppressing human emotion. “I am sick and tired of people taking some Bible verses and telling people not to have human emotions.” — Bishop Jim Swilley He argues that grief, fear, anger, disappointment, and uncertainty are not evidence of weak faith. They are part of being human. Jesus Himself experienced emotional intensity when Lazarus died. This becomes central to his interpretation of Jesus “groaning in the spirit” in John 11. Scripture Reference: John 3. “Groaning in the Spirit” Was Emotional Agitation, Not Calm Spirituality Bishop Jim digs into the Greek language behind John 11:33 and explains that Jesus' groaning was more than sadness. “The Greek root literally translated means to snort with anger or to express indignation, outrage, and deep agitation.” — Bishop Jim Swilley Rather than presenting Jesus as emotionally detached, he presents Him as fully immersed in the pain and tension of the moment. This becomes a metaphor for alignment: feeling fear while still believing, grieving while still hoping, questioning while still remaining spiritually rooted. 4. Relationships Are Part of Spiritual Alignment Much of the sermon reflects on the importance of authentic relationships — particularly Jesus' relationship with Peter and Lazarus. “What really matters is the relationship that you have and that you maintain.” — Bishop Jim Swilley He highlights: Jesus asking Peter “Do you love me?” Martha confronting Jesus after Lazarus' death The value of longtime friendships that survive storms Scripture References: John John 5. Alignment Includes Your Entire Story — Even the Broken Parts One of the defining statements of the message: “Make peace with every bit of your life, including your mistakes and your foibles and the things that you messed up that you can't fix.” — Bishop Jim Swilley He teaches that spiritual maturity is not pretending the painful parts never happened. Instead: regrets, failures, rejection, unanswered questions, trauma, and transformation all become threads in the tapestry of your identity. 6. Faith That Survives Questions Is Stronger Than Blind Certainty A major portion of the teaching wrestles openly with theological deconstruction and modern skepticism. Bishop Jim acknowledges: problems with organized religion, hypocrisy within evangelical culture, intellectual critiques of scripture, and the rise of ex-pastors becoming atheists. Yet he arrives at a deeply personal conclusion: “The winds and the rains and the storm already tried it… and baby it's still standing.” — Bishop Jim Swilley His argument is not rooted in dogma, but experience. Faith survives because something deeply authentic remains after every question has been asked. Key Scriptures Referenced Matthew — The wise man builds on the rock John — Lazarus, Mary, Martha, and Jesus groaning in the spirit John — Jesus asking Peter “Do you love me?” Isaiah — “The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me…” Final Thought The ultimate message of this teaching is that alignment is not becoming less human — it is becoming fully integrated. The storms of life do not destroy what is real; they expose it. Faith, identity, relationships, grief, questions, and hope all coexist in the same sacred space. “You are aligned with your foundation, with what's been shaken and tried in the fire… You are exactly where you're supposed to be.” — Bishop Jim Swilley

Pastor Eric Conley | John 7:53-8:11

What do you do when Jesus doesn't show up when you thought He would?In John 11, Mary and Martha send word to Jesus that Lazarus is sick. They know He can heal. They know He loves them. But instead of rushing to Bethany, Jesus waits.That delay raises a question most of us have faced in one way or another: Where is God when the thing we prayed against still happens?In this message, we look at one of Jesus' most powerful miracles and the claim at the center of it: “I am the resurrection and the life.” This story is about more than Lazarus walking out of a tomb. It's about the hope Jesus brings into our grief, our uncertainty, our waiting, and even death itself.

Jesus begins His final approach to Jerusalem after raising Lazarus, a miracle that causes many to believe but also intensifies the Pharisees' resolve to kill Him. Along the way He teaches about surrender and true discipleship through encounters like the rich young ruler—who refuses to give up his wealth—and blind Bartimaeus, who joyfully follows Jesus after being healed. Jesus prepares His disciples for His coming death and resurrection and uses the Parable of the Ten Minas to show that while He will soon depart, His followers must remain faithful and use what He entrusts to them until He returns.

Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead. This miracle teaches us to trust the sovereign Lord and to respond when he calls for us. Those who respond to Jesus when he calls, and believe in him, will receive eternal life. Verses: John 11: 20-27 John 11: 28-57 John 5: 28 Pastor: Daniel Hendrickson

In John 11, Jesus receives word that Lazarus is sick, yet He delays before going to him. What appeared to be absence was actually preparation for a greater display of God's glory. This episode reminds us that God's delays are never without purpose, and His timing is always perfect.

Our encouragement today comes from Jesus' attitude and focus in the story of raising Lazarus from the dead. In just the first 17 verses of John 11, we see two distinctly different attitudes portrayed by Jesus and his disciples. I hope you get challenged and encouraged by Jesus' attitude.

Today's Topics:1. Sound Signature Review 6.225 – the Dead Air Lazarus 6 on the 10.3-in 5.56 MK18. Triskelion technology in a rifle silencer – similar to the technology you saw in the Mojave evaluation, but with some twists. How does the Lazarus 6 stack up in this ultra-competitive and saturated rifle silencer market of 2026? High flow rate. Consistent performance. Does it do what you need? Technical discussion of the two tests – Xeno and direct-thread. (00:06:32)a. Intro and recap (00:09:05)b. Lazarus 6 overview (00:12:16)c. Lazarus 6 silencer design (00:23:05)d. Hazard Map Brief 8.1.22 (00:33:54)e. System performance (00:42:53)f. Overall thoughts (00:53:29)2. Sound Signature Review 6.226 – the Rampart Range Suppression Carson 556 on the 10.3-in 5.56 MK18. Rampart Range is back – their Carson series is back – and now you get to see their dedicated 5.56 model. The Carson 30 really did well on the SR-25. How does the Carson 556 stack up on the MK18? Can this Infinity core derivative bring something unique to the market? Probably. Introduction to today's report. (00:59:44)Sponsored by  Legion Athletics and the PEW Science Laboratory!Legion Athletics: use code pewscience for BOGO off your entire first order and 20% cash back always!

“What happens one minute after you die?” Jesus answered it plainly in Luke 16. Listen in to today's message from Pastor Greg Laurie. Notes: Luke 16 Everyone will die and enter the afterlife.Ecclesiastes 3:1–2 Hebrews 9:27 (NKJV)And as it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment. What happens one minute after you die?If you are a Christian, you go to heaven. 2 Corinthians 5:8To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. Philippians 1:23“I have a desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better.” What happens to the nonbeliever when they die? Most people do not think they will go to hell. Matthew 7:13 (NKJV)Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad [is] the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Matthew 7:14 (NKJV)Because narrow is the gate and difficult [is] the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it. If we believe the Bible, most people today are not headed to heaven. The very word “hell” is so misused that people do not even understand its meaning. Jesus spent more time talking about hell than any other preacher. Jesus gives us three things we need to know about what hell is actually like. Read Luke 16:19–22 Jesus tells a true story about two men:one owning everything, yet possessing nothing,the other owning nothing and inheriting everything. We get a behind-the-scenes look at the eternal future of the nonbeliever. Read Luke 16:22–31 The sin of the rich man in Hell was not his wealth, but his heart. He was possessed by his possessions.Luke 16:19 Sin is pleasurable for a season, but then it brings death. The rich man was living the good life with no concern for anything or anyone but himself. The rich man was not ushered into Heaven like Lazarus. The rich man’s sin was disregard for the spiritual, revealed in his prideful flaunting of resources and his neglect of a starving, disabled man at his door. You can build an empire, fill every room with every award, and still arrive at eternity completely unprepared. People in Hell suffer. Nonbelievers don’t go to purgatory, soul sleep, or reincarnation. Nonbelievers go to Hell and eventually to the Lake of Fire. God invented Hell because He is a God of love and justice. Once you enter the afterlife, you cannot change your location. We decide in this life where we will spend the afterlife. There are no chances after death, but millions before. You cannot communicate from the other side. In the afterlife, you are conscious and fully aware of where you are. Just as there is memory in Heaven, there is also memory in hell.Luke 16:28 If you are born once, you will die twice.If you are born twice, you will die once. Often, Christians are reluctant to mention Hell out of fear that they might offend someone. To promise heaven and not warn of hell,to offer forgiveness without repentance,to preach the gospel without the cross,this is a false message giving false hope. If we really love people, we need to tell the truth about eternity. Jude 1:22Show mercy to those whose faith is wavering. Jude 1:23aRescue others by snatching them from the flames of judgment. Read Luke 19:29–31 Jesus did many miracles, and many did not believe. The gospel is a universal declaration that Hell is not God’s desire for anyone. The road to Hell is paved with excuses. God has a much better plan for you.It’s called Heaven! What happens one minute after you die?If you are a believer in Jesus, you go to Heaven.If you reject His offer, you send yourself to Hell. The Harvest Crusade is coming to Angel Stadium on July 11! Stay updated on all important event details. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“What happens one minute after you die?” Jesus answered it plainly in Luke 16. Listen in to today's message from Pastor Greg Laurie. Notes: Luke 16 Everyone will die and enter the afterlife.Ecclesiastes 3:1–2 Hebrews 9:27 (NKJV)And as it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment. What happens one minute after you die?If you are a Christian, you go to heaven. 2 Corinthians 5:8To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. Philippians 1:23“I have a desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better.” What happens to the nonbeliever when they die? Most people do not think they will go to hell. Matthew 7:13 (NKJV)Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad [is] the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Matthew 7:14 (NKJV)Because narrow is the gate and difficult [is] the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it. If we believe the Bible, most people today are not headed to heaven. The very word “hell” is so misused that people do not even understand its meaning. Jesus spent more time talking about hell than any other preacher. Jesus gives us three things we need to know about what hell is actually like. Read Luke 16:19–22 Jesus tells a true story about two men:one owning everything, yet possessing nothing,the other owning nothing and inheriting everything. We get a behind-the-scenes look at the eternal future of the nonbeliever. Read Luke 16:22–31 The sin of the rich man in Hell was not his wealth, but his heart. He was possessed by his possessions.Luke 16:19 Sin is pleasurable for a season, but then it brings death. The rich man was living the good life with no concern for anything or anyone but himself. The rich man was not ushered into Heaven like Lazarus. The rich man’s sin was disregard for the spiritual, revealed in his prideful flaunting of resources and his neglect of a starving, disabled man at his door. You can build an empire, fill every room with every award, and still arrive at eternity completely unprepared. People in Hell suffer. Nonbelievers don’t go to purgatory, soul sleep, or reincarnation. Nonbelievers go to Hell and eventually to the Lake of Fire. God invented Hell because He is a God of love and justice. Once you enter the afterlife, you cannot change your location. We decide in this life where we will spend the afterlife. There are no chances after death, but millions before. You cannot communicate from the other side. In the afterlife, you are conscious and fully aware of where you are. Just as there is memory in Heaven, there is also memory in hell.Luke 16:28 If you are born once, you will die twice.If you are born twice, you will die once. Often, Christians are reluctant to mention Hell out of fear that they might offend someone. To promise heaven and not warn of hell,to offer forgiveness without repentance,to preach the gospel without the cross,this is a false message giving false hope. If we really love people, we need to tell the truth about eternity. Jude 1:22Show mercy to those whose faith is wavering. Jude 1:23aRescue others by snatching them from the flames of judgment. Read Luke 19:29–31 Jesus did many miracles, and many did not believe. The gospel is a universal declaration that Hell is not God’s desire for anyone. The road to Hell is paved with excuses. God has a much better plan for you.It’s called Heaven! What happens one minute after you die?If you are a believer in Jesus, you go to Heaven.If you reject His offer, you send yourself to Hell. The Harvest Crusade is coming to Angel Stadium on July 11! Stay updated on all important event details. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.