Podcasts about life in christ

The author of the Book of Hebrews makes the case that we simply can't stay with the basic, elementary teachings about faith and spiritual growth. We must move forward to a deeper and more mature understanding of our life in Christ. This makes sense, doesn't it?Main Points:1. Here's an important truth: God wants you to grow spiritually. He wants you to mature and develop a strong faith. He wants your understanding of his Word to grow so that you can move past the elementary stages and move on to deeper doctrines.2. We grow by being diligent in our pursuit of knowing God. We read and study His Word. We develop a consistent prayer life. We grow as we regularly gather with other believers and we share our faith together.3. If you want to grow in your faith, begin to take small steps of obedience to Jesus. With every step, you move away from the basic, elementary teaching and advance to maturity.Today's Scripture Verses:Hebrews 6:1 New Living Translation - “So let us stop going over the basic teachings about Christ again and again. Let us go on instead and become mature in our understanding. Surely we don't need to start again with the fundamental importance of repenting from evil deeds and placing our faith in God.”2 Timothy 2:15 - “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”James 1:22 - “But don't just listen to God's word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Week Six - Power to AbideThis episode features Dave Russell sharing his journey of faith and what it means to live the “exchanged life” in Christ. He explains that the gospel is not about striving for a better life but receiving a completely new one—marked by union with Christ, freedom from condemnation, and fruit that comes from abiding in Him. The conversation emphasizes surrender, identity in Christ, and daily reliance on the Spirit as the true path to transformation.Today's episode ties with the sermon from September 14 called "Power to Abide"Watch today's episode on Youtube

Reach Out: Please include your email and I will get back to you. Thanks!Good morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:Amazon - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle)YouTube Video Introducing the ContentFeel free to reach out with any questions: emersonk78@me.comColossians 3Believers must set their hearts and minds on heavenly things, not earthly desires. Having died to their old lives and been raised with Christ, they are called to cast off sinful behaviors like immorality, anger, and slander. Instead, they should clothe themselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Forgiveness is key, just as Jesus forgave them. Above all virtues, love binds everything together in perfect unity. Paul emphasizes letting Christ's peace rule in their hearts and encourages believers to be thankful. The message of Christ should dwell richly among them, expressed through teaching, wisdom, and songs of praise. In all they do, they are to act in the name of the Lord Jesus. Lastly, Paul addresses family dynamics, encouraging wives, husbands, and children to embody Christ's presence within the home. If we are raised in Christ, we must flee old habits that no longer define us in Him, like sexual sin or bitterness toward others. In our daily lives, we should actively choose purity of heart, compassion, and forgiveness, even when it is hard. When tensions rise at home, work, or with friends, we must remember to let Christ's peace guide our responses. Love must be the foundation of everything we do, being featured in our family. In every situation, whether speaking, working, or serving, we are called to do it all in Jesus' name with thankfulness. True transformation is about growing into the image of Christ—reflecting His character and honoring Him in every relationship, every decision, and every moment.   Loving Father, thank You for raising us to new life in Christ. Help us to set our hearts on things above and to let go of anything that pulls us away from You. Clothe us with character traits that emulate Christ. Empower us to forgive as You have forgiven us, and let Your peace rule in our hearts. May love guide all we do, and may the message of Christ dwell richly within us, especially in our marriage and homes. Whatever we say or do today, let it be in the name of Jesus, giving thanks to You always.  Thought Questions: What helps you keep seeking things above and set your mind on heavenly things? How is this more than morning prayer and bible study? In what way is love the perfect bond of unity? What helps you show patience, compassion, and forgiveness for those who wrong you? “It is the Lord Christ whom you serve.” Why is this mindset vital in the home, with marriages and relationships between parents and children?

In this powerful sermon, we delve into the profound themes of faithful witness, grace, and peace from the book of Revelation. Reflecting on the tragic assassination of Charlie Kirk, we explore the courage and conviction required to testify to Jesus with our whole lives. This message examines how the concepts of grace and peace are integral to facing persecution and challenges as followers of Christ. Journey with us as we uncover the boundless grace and peace offered by God the Father, the Holy Spirit, and Jesus Christ. Discover how history, both biblical and contemporary, offers us insight and inspiration to remain bold in our witness, advancing the kingdom of God amid trials. Join us as we navigate the 'Wonderful World of the Apocalypse' and find reassurance in the transcendent hope that life in Christ offers.

One of the hallmark attitudes of a focused Christian life is being thankful. The very foundation of our Christian beliefs is the fact that being redeemed from sin and death by the love and sacrifice of Jesus is a gift that is in every case beyond our ability to earn or deserve. We are freely given life in Christ, and therefore we have great motivation to live in a state of gratefulness. That being said, how far should this grateful attitude go? Is it really supposed to encompass each and every experience we have? Does being thankful in everything mean we should never be sad or anxious? There is a profound challenge requiring a necessary spiritual discipline before us if we are attempting to live with gratitude in all circumstances. We base this on 1 Thessalonians 5:18: “In everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.” This teaching builds on two prior principles— “Rejoice always” and “Pray without ceasing”—to form a triad of Christian conduct that fosters spiritual resilience and peace. To meet this challenge, we must accept that true thankfulness is not a fleeting emotion but is instead a cultivated state of perception. It means viewing life's hardships—grief, loss, uncertainty—through the lens of trust in God's providence. The Apostle Paul models this in 2 Corinthians 12, where he expresses gratitude for unanswered prayers, recognizing that weakness becomes strength when Christ is present. True thankfulness in everything can be described as being: • A spiritual lens that reshapes how we interpret suffering. • A gateway to peace that surpasses understanding (Philippians 4:6–7). • An active expression, not just a feeling—meant to be lived and shared. Paul's Epistles demonstrate that thankfulness should be expressed both to God and to others. His joy over the Thessalonians' faith despite their persecution illustrates how mutual encouragement strengthens the body of Christ. There are MANY reasons for us to be thankful daily. Here are just three core reasons daily gratitude is in order: For our calling to follow Jesus (Colossians 2:6–7) For Jesus' sacrifice which is described as an indescribable gift (2 Corinthians 9:15) For God's enduring faithfulness and creative power (Psalm 92) Ultimately, thankfulness is a spiritual discipline that equips Christian believers to endure trials, uplift others, and align with God's will. It's not about denying pain. It's about trusting that even in pain, God is present and purposeful.

"Let not your heart be troubled." - Jesus In the face of tragedy, we have a choice: let fear win or let faith rise. Today's message reminds us that even in our darkest moments, God's peace can guard our hearts. The enemy may scheme, but he just woke a giant - the Church. We're called to be bold in our faith, to cast our cares on Him, and to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus. Remember: You are built to live by faith. Don't let your heart be troubled. Replace worry with worship. Your strength comes from the joy of the Lord.

When Jesus called Peter and Andrew by the Sea of Galilee, He wasn't inviting them to a casual belief, He was summoning them to leave everything and follow Him. That same call reaches us today: to drop our nets, burn the ships, and step fully into His mission of being fishers of men. Discover how new life in Christ, the empowering of the Holy Spirit, and total surrender equip us to follow Jesus wholeheartedly and share His gospel with boldness.

Pastor Gabriel Hughes preaches from Romans 6:5-8 to read about how we were once dead in sin and a slave to it, but we have been set free and given new life in Christ. Visit providencecasagrande.com for more info about our church!

We continue The X Commandments series with “Do Not Murder.” Murder is more than taking a life—it begins in the heart with hate, offense, and unforgiveness. Jesus showed us that anger equals murder in seed form, and only radical love can overcome it. From Cain and Abel to the cross where the innocent was condemned and the guilty went free, this message exposes the spirit of murder and calls us to radical love, forgiveness, and life in Christ.

When the Beat Stopped: The One Who Found His Faith AgainBefore the hospital gowns and machines, Kyle David kept time for a living—a professional drummer and percussionist whose life moved in rhythm. Then a hurricane evacuation from New Orleans spiraled into a fight with COVID pneumonia, and the beat of everyday life stopped.What followed was a grueling medical odyssey: three hospitals, 50 days in ICU, a month-long coma, and moments when he was declared clinically dead—twice. Doctors said his only chance was a double-lung transplant. Airlifted to San Diego, Kyle spent nearly seven months learning to breathe, speak, and walk again.Somewhere in that long valley, Kyle's faith cracked. He prayed what felt like his last honest prayer:“Lord, either heal me miraculously now—or let me come home. I can't do this another day.”Silence seemed to answer back. For the first time, the drummer who had grown up with church in his bones felt the tempo of belief slipping away.Then came the moment he thought might be his last. During a brief outing from the hospital, Kyle's portable life-support machine failed. With a tracheostomy tube and seconds to spare, he rose from his wheelchair and shouted so nurses and his mother could hear:“Jesus Christ is my Lord and Savior.”If this was the end, he wanted his final words to be his clearest.Days later, a matching set of donor lungs became available. On March 3, 2022, surgeons performed the transplant that saved his life. Recovery was slow and humbling—scales and rudiments, but for breathing. Yet as his lungs healed, something deeper healed, too. The God who seemed silent in the ICU met him again—quietly, steadily, mercifully.Kyle describes what happened next as a re-tuning of his soul. The brushes became sticks; the metronome clicked again. His near-death season led him into the ancient prayers and steady rhythms of Eastern Orthodox worship, where he found a church that helped him rebuild his life in Christ with reverence, beauty, and community.“If I hadn't walked through that fire,” Kyle says, “I might never have discovered this path. My suffering became a blessing in disguise.”Kyle's story is more than a medical miracle. It's a testimony for anyone who's suffered long, doubted hard, and wondered if the music of faith was finished. God did not waste the silence. He used it to write a new song.Hear the full conversation on Cloud of Witnesses—Kyle's journey from a failing heartbeat to a living hope, from the edge of unbelief to a renewed confession of Jesus as Lord. Subscribe for more stories of lives transformed when grace meets the impossible.Find an Orthodox Church near you today. Visit https://www.antiochian.org/home Questions about Orthodoxy? Please check out our friends at Ghost of Byzantium Discord server: https://discord.gg/JDJDQw6tdhPlease prayerfully consider supporting Cloud of Witnesses Radio: https://www.patreon.com/c/CloudofWitnessesFind Cloud of Witnesses Radio on Instagram, X.com, Facebook, and TikTok.Please leave a comment with your thoughts!

To be “in Christ” means everything changes—past sins are paid for, a new life is given, and a fresh perspective is born. Paul reminds us that Christ's love compels us to live for Him, not ourselves. Today's message highlights what unites every believer: death with Christ, life in Christ, a new perspective, and a brand new nature.

Are we just trying harder… or are we actually getting healthier?In this episode, Tom sits down with Tony Boer—husband, dad, speaker, and licensed therapist—for a raw and hope-filled conversation about faith, family, and the danger of just “doing” life without being transformed.Together they dive into:Why many men hide behind activity instead of pursuing real healingHow unresolved emotions and pain show up in our marriages and familiesThe difference between managing life and truly living in ChristPractical steps toward honesty, connection, and freedomThis is an honest conversation for anyone who feels stuck—trying to do all the right things but longing to experience more of the life Jesus offers.To connect more with Tony, check out his website - www.tonyboer.comThe Giving Life Podcast: Conversations about being a man whose life in Christ gives life to others.Watch the video version on YouTube - https://youtu.be/XY2rC---aNsMore info about Restoration Generation - www.resgen.org

If you're on YouTube this is the audio podcast version of the message. It is also available on all podcast platforms such as Spotify and iTunes. Use the link below to find your preferred platform. If you're looking for the video broadcast it can be found under the "Live" tab on our YouTube channel. All our links in one place: linktr.ee/glcjemisonDownload The GLC App get.theapp.co/mssr

In this episode of Anchored in the Word, Dave Jenkins addresses the timely and sobering question: Should Christians pursue persecution? The Bible is clear—persecution is promised for all who desire to live a godly life in Christ (2 Timothy 3:12), but it is never something believers are called to seek out. Instead, Christians are called to faithfulness, courage, and steadfast love in the face of opposition. Through Scripture, church history examples like Polycarp and William Tyndale, and pastoral reflection, Dave explains: Why persecution is promised but not pursued. The difference between faithfulness and provocation. How to prepare your heart to stand firm when trials come. Persecution is not a strategy, but when it comes, it is a privilege to suffer for Christ's name. May we stand firm in faith and stay anchored in His Word. For more from Anchored in the Word visit: https://servantsofgrace.org/anchored-in-the-wordpage/

SummaryIn this episode of Coffee & Christ, Robert Bolden shares his transformative journey of faith, emphasizing the joy found in Christ and the importance of living a life filled with purpose. He discusses the essence of true life beyond worldly definitions, challenges listeners to examine their beliefs, and highlights the significance of sharing hope and encouragement with others.TakeawaysJoy is a fundamental aspect of life in Christ.True life is about being born again and living with purpose.Worldly definitions of success are not fulfilling.There is a deeper, more peaceful existence available.Challenging beliefs can lead to confusion and conflict.Being genuine in faith can impact others positively.Sharing hope is essential in a chaotic world.Transformation is a lifelong journey.There is always a way out of burdens and struggles.Community and connection are vital in the spiritual journey.Sound Bites"Challenge people's beliefs.""Be genuine, have an impact.""There is a way out of that."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Transformation02:32 The Essence of True Life04:22 The Power of Belief and Conviction08:35 Paul's Journey and the Message of HopeReady to become part of the community? ⁠http://www.lifetransformed.podia.com⁠, message us and we will give you free access.Merchhttps://www.bonfire.com/store/lifetransformed/Schedule a serve call ⁠https://www.picktime.com/LifeTransformed⁠Instagram ⁠https://www.instagram.com/bbolden18?igsh=cnlvdjQ5eGJwZTM%3D&utm_source=qr⁠YouTube⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCx6sszulCUrjodEyThd-rBw⁠Podcasts Join me live from Odd's Cafe here in Asheville…  message me for the exact time.  ⁠https://www.oddscafe.com/⁠Email: robertbolden@thisworldfreedom.com

This message delves into Titus 3:1-11, contrasting our past life of foolishness and sin with our new life in Christ. Challenging believers to to live with humility and purpose, eagerly doing good works and avoiding divisive disputes.

Romans 6:22 — It should be unthinkable to the Christian to return to their old life. In Romans 6:22, Paul emphasizes a depiction of what it is like to be in Christ Jesus and it is a simple argument to those who consider themselves a Christian. In the sermon from Romans 6:22 titled “Servants of Sin,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones underlines that a Christian is one who has undergone a profound change, because only a Christian can truly discuss a true difference between their past and present. That is because a Christian has been set free from sin. God regenerates and creates the Christian anew. A Christian has the power to resist the devil while a non-Christian does not. Sin becomes just a nuisance in the daily life, not a master. Once a Christian grasps that they are now enslaved to God and righteousness, they realize that they truly have no right to continue on sinning. The result of this great change is a fruitful life in Christ. If there is no fruit, one is not truly a Christian. Dr. Lloyd-Jones encourages the listener to analyze their life and actions to determine if they are living in a fruitful life as slaves to righteousness.

Romans 6:22 — It should be unthinkable to the Christian to return to their old life. In Romans 6:22, Paul emphasizes a depiction of what it is like to be in Christ Jesus and it is a simple argument to those who consider themselves a Christian. In the sermon from Romans 6:22 titled “Servants of Sin,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones underlines that a Christian is one who has undergone a profound change, because only a Christian can truly discuss a true difference between their past and present. That is because a Christian has been set free from sin. God regenerates and creates the Christian anew. A Christian has the power to resist the devil while a non-Christian does not. Sin becomes just a nuisance in the daily life, not a master. Once a Christian grasps that they are now enslaved to God and righteousness, they realize that they truly have no right to continue on sinning. The result of this great change is a fruitful life in Christ. If there is no fruit, one is not truly a Christian. Dr. Lloyd-Jones encourages the listener to analyze their life and actions to determine if they are living in a fruitful life as slaves to righteousness. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/603/29

In this moving episode, Amber shares her powerful testimony of surviving a tragic accident, overcoming addiction, and finding new life in Christ. Mark opens up about his early career in filmmaking, the compromises he faced, and how God has shaped their path to create meaningful films like The Mind Polluters, Dysphoria, Title IX, and the upcoming Principalities. Join Mark and Amber as they explore what it means to trust God's plan through seasons of pain, growth, and purpose.

Our guest speaker, Dr. Francis Bii, is an elder at Harvest Connexion Church in Eldoret, Kenya. On Sunday, he shared a powerful message how we can have abundant joy because we have victory in Jesus Christ. Our service to the Lord is never in vain but sows eternal seeds.

In a world where we often care deeply about trivial matters, we need to refocus on what truly matters eternally. After salvation, baptism stands as the first crucial step of obedience for believers. It serves as a public declaration of faith, symbolizes the death of our old self and birth of new life in Christ, and brings joy to our Heavenly Father. Baptism isn't just a religious ritual but a command from Jesus and an act of love toward Him. For those who have accepted Christ but haven't been baptized, the question remains: what are you waiting for?

Dive deep into the Bible's most profound question: Why did Jesus have to die? In this eye-opening episode of Biblically Literate, hosted by Jon Rhoades, Children and Family Minister at First Christian Church in Brazil, Indiana, we unpack God's word in its original context from Genesis to the Gospels. Explore the foundational story in Genesis 1-3: God's good creation, the Garden of Eden, the tree of life, the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, Adam's formation from dust (adamah), the serpent's deception, sin's entry, exile by cherubim and flaming sword, and the wages of sin as death (Romans 6:23). Discover how death means separation from God, the source of life, and God's severe mercy in preventing eternal corruption.Journey through the Old Testament: the tabernacle as Eden on earth with garden imagery, pomegranates, trees, cherubim curtains; animal sacrifices in Leviticus 17:11 for atonement (kipper - to cover or ransom); the Day of Atonement in Leviticus 16 with two goats - one sacrificed for purification, the scapegoat bearing iniquities into the wilderness (Isaiah 53:6 fulfilled); temple in Jerusalem with veil and altar like flaming sword.See how it all points to Jesus: the Word tabernacled among us (John 1:14), sinless yet made sin for us (2 Corinthians 5:21); His crucifixion in Luke 23 - innocent affirmed by Pilate and Herod, swapped for guilty Barabbas, forgiving persecutors, promising Paradise to the criminal, temple curtain torn, darkness over the land (Amos 8:9). Fulfilling prophecies like Zechariah 9:9 (triumphal entry), Jeremiah 7:11 (temple cleansing as den of robbers), Passover new covenant with body and blood; quoting Psalm 31:5; absorbing sin's wage as the ultimate scapegoat (1 Peter 2:24); superior high priest in heavenly tabernacle (Hebrews 9:11-14, Hebrews 2:9).Understand redemption: all have sinned (Romans 3:23-25), justified by grace through propitiation by His blood; redemption through His blood (Ephesians 1:7); Christ died for our sins according to Scriptures (1 Corinthians 15:3-4); God's love while we were sinners (Romans 5:8). His resurrection overcomes death, opening Eden's gate.Whether you're studying God's loving nature, justice, mercy, or how He interacts with us, this episode connects the dots on sin, death, sacrifice, atonement, and eternal life in Christ. Perfect for families exploring the Bible together!Like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more Biblically Literate episodes! Leave comments below - would you like a deeper dive on free will and the tree? Email Jon or rate us 5 stars on your podcast app. Watch on YouTube or listen wherever you get podcasts. Posted September 9, 2025. #WhyDidJesusDie #BiblicalTruth #GenesisToGospels #Atonement #JesusSacrifice #BibleStudy #ChristianPodcast #YouTubeBible #SinAndSalvation #EdenExile #Scapegoat #Crucifixion #Resurrection #Romans623 #Leviticus1711 #Isaiah536 #Hebrews91114

Who are you? When you consider the ssence of who you are what do you think of?  There are no questions of greater importance than understanding who you are.  In this series, we hope to guide you to an understanding of what it truely means to have your life IN CHRIST.Text: 1 Peter 2:9-10Sermon Summary:Big Idea: In Christ we find our true identity and mission.Key Question: What does it mean to be God's people in a world that has forgotten who it belongs to?1.     Know who you are. (v. 9a)2.     Know why you are here. (v. 9b)3.     Know what God did. (v. 10)

In this episode of Bible Reading and Coffee Drinking, we dive into Romans 6, where Paul teaches us what it truly means to live a new life in Christ. Through baptism, we're united with Jesus in His death and resurrection, set free from the power of sin, and called to walk in righteousness. This chapter challenges us to leave the old life behind and embrace our new identity in Him. Grab your Bible and coffee, and let's explore what it means to be truly alive in Christ.Also, use the code "Podcast20" to get 20% off our entire store. This is a special code specifically for our podcast listeners! See all our our hoodies, t-shirts, caps and more at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.livingchristian.org/store.html⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.Check out this podcast and all previous episodes on Spotify, iTunes, Google more! - https://www.livingchristian.org/podcast.htmlMY BIBLE: Every Man's Bible: New Living Translation - Find it here: https://amzn.to/3MuDAUSCHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE BELOW FOR CHRISTIAN APPAREL, PRODUCTS, BLOGS, BIBLE VERSES AND MORE:Website | https://www.livingchristian.orgStore | https://www.livingchristian.org/store.htmlPodcast | https://www.livingchristian.org/podcast.htmlFOLLOW ME ON SOCIAL:Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/living_christian/Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/livechristian1 Twitter | https://twitter.com/livechristian1Pinterest | https://www.pinterest.com/living_christian/TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@livingchristianABOUT US:Living Christian believes that our Christian faith isn't just for Sunday mornings in Church. Our faith impacts every aspect of our lives and the challenges we face every day of the week. We want to connect to people who are seeking to determine what Living Christian means in their own day-to-day lives. We are focused on providing resources and products to a community of believers. We provide daily biblical inspiration, motivation and guidance through social posts, blogs and Christian apparel and products.This work contains Music Track The 126ers - Winds of Spring that is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution license. Source: https://directory.audio/free-music/pop/5092-the-126ers-winds-of-springAuthor: The 126ers#christ #christian #christianity #christianblog #christianblogger #verses #bible #bibleinspiration #bibletime #jesusistheway #biblestudy #dailybible #newtestament #oldtestament #thebible #christ #jesuschrist #holybible #lukewarm #christians #christianpodcast #christmas

Mortification & VivificationSeptember 7, 2025 • Devon Accardi • Colossians 3:1–17This Sunday, Devon continued our fall series, More Like Him. Colossians 3 shows that when we confess faith in Christ, we become new creations, reconciled to God, and invited into the lifelong process of sanctification. Though Jesus has accomplished all the saving work, God calls us to actively participate by putting sin to death (mortification) and living into our new life in Christ (vivification). This work goes beyond behavior modification—it addresses the deeper roots of sin in our hearts. God desires to shape us into lives of holiness and righteousness, inviting us to walk with Him, keep in step with the Spirit, and cultivate an interior life that reflects His design.MORE LIKE HIM RESOURCES: https://fellowshipknox.org/moreWEBSITE: https://fellowshipknox.org/INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/fellowshipknox/

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

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

Send us a textOur mission at FBC Tampa centers on connecting people to a thriving life in Christ through intentional relationships and biblical teaching. We explore how this mission shapes everything we do as a church and how individual members can live it out daily.• Mission statement serves as a filter for all church activities and ministries• Thriving in Christ means glorifying God by doing what He's called us to do• Connecting others requires both loving God passionately and loving others purposefully• Relationships are the primary vehicle for connecting people to Christ• Psalm 1 provides the framework: dig in (to God's Word), grow up (in Christ), branch out (bear fruit)• Being intentional with both actions and words is essential for effective witness• Avoid connecting people merely to church activities rather than to Christ Himself• Every believer plays a role in the process – preparing soil, planting, watering, or harvesting• There are only two paths – in Christ or apart from Christ – with no middle groundText us your questions or topic suggestions for future episodes of the Unsexy Church Podcast. Stay unsexy!

In this powerful message, we're reminded of the transformative power of joy in our Christian walk. The central theme revolves around Philippians 4:4, 'Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!' We're challenged to embrace joy not as a fleeting emotion, but as a fruit of the Spirit and a powerful spiritual weapon. The message draws parallels between Paul's circumstances in prison and our own challenges, emphasizing that true joy transcends our situations. We're encouraged to fix our thoughts on things worthy of praise, as outlined in Philippians 4:8, and to cultivate a mindset of rejoicing even in difficult times. This practice of joy is presented as a key to not letting our hearts be troubled, linking back to Jesus' words in John 14. The message inspires us to live as 'citizens of heaven, commissioned to planet Earth,' carrying the contagious nature of God's joy to a world in need of hope.

Are you ready to experience new life in Christ?

Welcome to the final week of our 12-week sermon series, "Summer on the Mount: Jesus' Upside-Down Kingdom," from Grace City Church. In this powerful and reflective message, Pastor Casey Olsen takes us through Matthew 7:24–29, where Jesus closes His Sermon on the Mount with a defining challenge: Will you build your life on the rock, or on the sand?This is more than just the end of a series—it's a spiritual decision point. Jesus invites us not just to admire His words, but to align our lives with them.Subscribe to our channel for more gospel-centered teaching and visit our website to learn more about Grace City Church.---In this closing message, Pastor Casey reminds us that hearing the words of Jesus isn't enough—it's about doing them. Our lives are shaped not just by what we believe on Sunday, but by what we build on Monday.Through honest testimony, biblical insight, and practical wisdom, this sermon explores what it means to build a storm-proof life on the unshakable foundation of Christ.---In this sermon, you'll learn:- Why amazement at Jesus' teachings is not the goal—obedience is- How storms in life reveal the cracks in our spiritual foundations- What it means to anchor your life in Christ, not comfort or control- How habits like prayer, Scripture, community, and obedience build spiritual strength- That it's never too late to rebuild, even if the storms have already exposed your weakness- How a life built on Jesus becomes a source of strength and peace for others---Key Passage:Matthew 7:24-29

What does it mean to “choose life” when we're tired, aging, or facing decline? Pastor Bryson reflects on Trinity's 75th anniversary, Moses' challenge in Deuteronomy, and Paul's win/win view of life and death. Discover why death doesn't get the final word and how freedom from fear opens us to abundant life in Christ.

When life feels stagnant or we're not seeing the progress we hope for, it's often a sign that we're caught in a closed loop of cynicism and self-fulfilling prophecies. The same can be true of our spiritual lives—we hold back or isolate, assuming we already know how the future will turn out. Over time, we stop having expectations and begin to lose hope.In Luke 11, Jesus teaches His disciples that a life of faith requires shameless audacity. Asking boldly and expecting boldly are fundamental to a life in Christ, and Jesus invites us to practice such audacity because we have a heavenly Father whose promises and love for us are beyond all measure. ------ Luke 11:5-13 Then Jesus said to them, “Suppose you have a friend, and you go to him at midnight and say, ‘Friend, lend me three loaves of bread; 6 a friend of mine on a journey has come to me, and I have no food to offer him.' 7 And suppose the one inside answers, ‘Don't bother me. The door is already locked, and my children and I are in bed. I can't get up and give you anything.' 8 I tell you, even though he will not get up and give you the bread because of friendship, yet because of your shameless audacity[a] he will surely get up and give you as much as you need. 9 “So I say to you: Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. 10 For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened. 11 “Which of you fathers, if your son asks for[b] a fish, will give him a snake instead? 12 Or if he asks for an egg, will give him a scorpion? 13 If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!”

La Unidad y Vida En Cristo | Unity and Life in Christ | Carlos Figueroa

Baptism isn’t just a ritual—it’s a powerful step of new life in Christ. In this sermon, Pastor Mitch looks at what Jesus, Peter, and Paul actually taught about baptism and why it matters for every believer. If you’ve wondered, ‘Why should I be baptized?’—this message is for you. Sermon Notes - http://bible.com/events/49488520 Digital Connect Card - https://redeemertampa.com/connectcard/ Online Giving - https://redeemertampa.com/give

Coleton preached on the parable of the prodigal son (Luke 15), showing how it illustrates God's heart for celebration when lost sinners come home. He tied this story to the church's vision of cultivating a Culture of Celebration, alongside Gospel saturation, pursuit, blessing, and belonging. Main Idea: God is the most joyful Being in the universe. His heart is full of celebration, and His people are called to reflect that joy so the world can see what He is really like. A culture of celebration not only honors God but also draws others to Him. Why We Need a Culture of Celebration     1.    Celebration shows us what God is really like     •    From Genesis to Revelation, Scripture shows God's joy, feasts, songs, and festivals.     •    Jesus entered the world with joy and left His disciples with joy. Heaven itself rejoices over one sinner who repents.     2.    We pass on what we love and enjoy     •    People naturally share what excites them (sports, hobbies, food).     •    If Christians only pass on duty and obligation but not joy and delight, the next generation will miss the fullness of life in Christ.     •    Celebration helps us pass on the joy of knowing Jesus.     3.    Celebration shows sinners it's safe to come home     •    The prodigal son expected rejection but was met with a feast.     •    Many avoid God because they fear rejection.     •    The church must embody God's joy-filled welcome, making it clear that repentance is met with celebration, not condemnation. Practical Applications     •    In church life: expressive worship, prayer nights, baptisms, community parties, fun days, block parties, feasts, and celebrations of answered prayer.     •    In personal life: throw parties when God answers prayers, create “redemptive calendars” of God's goodness, and intentionally celebrate as families.     •    The goal: when people experience joy-filled gatherings, they should walk away thinking, “I didn't know Jesus was that good. I could follow this Jesus.” ⸻ Discussion Questions Understanding God's Heart     1.    When you picture God, do you naturally think of Him as joyful? Why or why not?     2.    How does the father's response to the prodigal son reshape your view of how God receives sinners? Personal Practice of Celebration     3.    What is one way you can create a rhythm of celebration in your home or with your friends?     4.    What has God done in your life recently that deserves a party or a joyful remembrance? Passing On What We Love     5.    What do you naturally get excited about and pass on to others? How could you do the same with your joy in Jesus?     6.    How might your joy in Christ become contagious to your children, friends, or neighbors? Mission & Hospitality     7.    If someone far from God attended one of our gatherings, would they feel celebrated? Why or why not?     8.    What practical step can you take this month to invite someone into the joy of life with Jesus? ⸻ Author Quotes from the Sermon Charles Spurgeon: “This age does not generally sin in the direction of being too excited about God. However, we have sinned so long on the other side. Perhaps a little excess in the direction of zeal might not be the worst of all calamities. For, it is a mark of Christ's presence when the church becomes enthusiastic.” Dallas Willard: “We will never fully understand God until we believe that He is the most joyful Being in the universe.” Richard Foster: “Celebration is at the heart of the way of Christ. He entered the world on a high note of jubilation… He left the world bequeathing His joy to the disciples.” “It is a danger of devout Christians to become stuffy bores… Celebration adds a note of gaiety, festivity, hilarity to our lives… Celebration helps us relax and enjoy the good things of the earth.” Donald Miller (Blue Like Jazz): “Sometimes you have to watch somebody love something before you can love it yourself. It's as if they are showing you the way.” Thomas Aquinas: “No one can live without delight and that is why a man deprived of spiritual joy goes over to carnal pleasures. Because the church has deprived people of the joy of God, the world looks good.”  

In this passage, Peter reminds us that the time for living in sin is over—we now belong to Christ and live for the will of God. Following Jesus often means choosing hardship over ease, but it also means living with assurance, strength, and eternal hope. This message calls us to embrace our new life in Christ, endure with faith, and proclaim the gospel with both our words and actions.

John 8:15-16, You judge according to the flesh; I am not judging anyone. But even if I do judge, My judgment is true; for I am not alone in it, but I and the Father who sent Me. Amazing! In this case, Jesus was not judging anyone because the Father wasn't judging. That's what love looked like in that instance. How often do we judge according to the flesh when we should not be judging at all—as an act of love with Jesus? It seems, if anyone deserved judgment in this case, it was the Pharisees. If He isn't judging them because He's entrusting them to the Father, shouldn't we do the same with those who seem like our adversaries? Otherwise, we are "judging according to the flesh." The next time we feel compelled to judge someone, it might be wise to check to see if we are reacting in the flesh as the Pharisees were. It will free us to love with Jesus. What is truth? It is what God does, sees, judges, and testifies to with His Son. Individuality is the flesh and is what the world praises and worships. Union with God reveals the truth. Living to love with Jesus reveals not individual goodness or righteousness, but the truth that a person is no longer an individual, but is a life united with God. May we be filled with thanksgiving and praise for the miracle of new life in Christ, revealed as we love with Him. I invite you to become a partner in our ministry. Would you pray about becoming a regular supporter of Elijah Ministries and the Live to Love with Jesus ministry? I hope you will receive the joy and benefit of "giving it forward," so others may receive encouragement to turn their hearts to God and to live to love with Jesus. You may give online or send a check to the address listed at www.spiritofelijah.com/donate.

Pastor Steven preaches from Philemon 1-21Let us know you heard the message. Send us a text!Welcome to Pastor Steven G. Lightfoot's Podcast. Sermons and homilies by Rev. Steven G. Lightfoot. Pastor Steven is an ordained elder in the Global Methodist Church and serves as Senior Pastor to First Methodist Church Splendora and Shepherd Methodist Church in Southeast Texas. Thanks for listening! Join us each week for a new message. May God bless you and keep you.

John 14:5-6 (NKJV) “Thomas said to Him, “Lord, we do not know where You are going, and how can we know the way?” Jesus said to him, “I am THE WAY, THE TRUTH, and THE LIFE. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” Today we get the wonderful privilege of celebrating with our church family their bold declaration of their faith in Christ, with baptism. Baptism is one of the most honorable things we do for Christ. It boldly testifies to humanity, as well as all the host of the unseen world, that we belong to Jesus. That He is the only way.

Join The Louhs and their guest, Fr. Evan Armatas, as they discuss the third part of his book on time. The Church's theology of time is an overlooked topic, yet the implications of our theology and its application in our lives are essential to a rightly ordered life in Christ. Order Fr. Evan's book at the Ancient Faith Store.

Once known as the bloodiest penitentiary in America, prisoners in Angola are finding new life in Christ by restoring wheelchairs for those in need. You too can live out Ephesians 4 by serving on a Wheels for the World trip! Find out more at www.joniandfriends.org. -------- Thank you for listening! Your support of Joni and Friends helps make this show possible.     Joni and Friends envisions a world where every person with a disability finds hope, dignity, and their place in the body of Christ. Become part of the global movement today at www.joniandfriends.org   Find more encouragement on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube.

Listen to Kylie Syfert as she teaches on the reality of our sojourn life in Christ! Heaven is our home but earth is our assignment!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/cross-kingdom-sermon-of-the-week--2084451/support.

Reach Out: Please include your email and I will get back to you. Thanks!Ephesians 4Paul urges believers to live in unity, maturity, and holiness as members of Christ's body. He calls them to walk in humility, gentleness, patience, and love, striving to maintain the unity of the Spirit. There is one body, one Spirit, one hope, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, and one Father who is over all, through all, and in all. Christ has given apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers to equip the church for ministry and spiritual growth. Followers of Christ must mature in faith, avoiding false teachings and growing into Him, the head of the church. They should cast off their old sinful ways and embrace a new life of righteousness. Paul encourages honesty, kindness, forgiveness, and speaking words that uplift others, reflecting God's love in all our relationships.  Are you walking in a manner worthy of God's calling? The most observable proof is in how we treat one another. We share a common faith and life in Christ, and we must exhibit gentleness, patience, love, and enduring tolerance towards each other. We cannot be in fellowship with God while being at odds with fellow believers. The apostles and prophets of Jesus's time taught about Him to help us refute false doctrine and speak the truth in love, building each other up. While people in the world may have hardened hearts, God's people possess soft, compassionate spirits. We must be honest, charitable, mindful of our words, free of bitterness, and abundantly forgiving, in honor of the mercy of our King. Heavenly Father, implore us to walk in a manner that brings honor to Your name. Help us understand that attitudes and actions among Christians are central to being unique and united in this divided world. Grant us the humility to continue learning about Jesus, so we can refute errors concerning Him, and so that we might know how to encourage and support fellow members of the body of Christ. Soften our hearts. Deepen our compassion and love for one another. We commit to being honest, helpful, and generous among believers and all of humanity, as Jesus is with us. Thought Questions: -       Are you a uniting, patient, peaceable presence among the people of God? How important to God is your Christ-like light among Christians? -       What unique gifts has God given you to use among His people? How are you presently cultivating and exercising those gifts? -       How mindful are you of your words, especially during contentious times? What makes Christians different than the world in their speech?

Episode 255 – Keep Moving ForwardIn our journey of faith, we are called to maintain an unwavering focus on Christ. What is it that powerfully challenges us from doing this? Avoiding distractions that can derail our spiritual growth. We must guard against empty philosophies, human traditions, and worldly principles that aren't according to Christ. This episode unpacks Colossians 2:6-8 and reminds us to walk in Jesus just as we received Him - by faith. We are encouraged to be rooted and built up in Him, established in maturity of the faith. This isn't just about salvation, but about living our entire lives centered on Jesus. Our stability, understanding, and gratitude should all stem from our relationship with Jesus. As we navigate life's complexities, let's remember that everything - our work, relationships, decisions - should be viewed through the lens of our life in Christ. This message urges us to cultivate a disciplined mind, focus on Christ, and to maintain our spiritual momentum while avoiding being taken captive by deceptive ideologies.

This is The Energy to Heal, your resource for all things Splankna, the faith-based inner healing modality that will help you achieve emotional freedom. In this episode, host Laura Milliken sits down with her husband, Mason Milliken, for a powerful conversation about surrendering to Christ as the true secret to peace, joy, and ease in life. Through candid storytelling and real-life examples, Laura and Mason explore the ways faith has shaped their marriage, family, and entrepreneurial journey. Mason shares how surrendering to God's direction has allowed him to build businesses—not out of striving, but out of trust. Together, they reveal how detaching from worldly control opens the door to freedom, fulfillment, and deep rest in God's plan. This episode will encourage anyone facing uncertainty, business pressures, or personal struggles to discover the life-changing truth: surrender is not loss—it's the path to abundant life in Christ. BOOK MENTIONED IN THE EPISODE: GRACE WALK by STEVE MCVEY  ✨ Takeaways: Surrender to Christ is the true secret to peace, joy, and freedom. Faith and business are not separate—they can flow together. Letting go of control leads to greater clarity and ease. God honors risk when it is rooted in trust and obedience. Detaching from worldly attachments opens the way to true fulfillment. Practical faith can guide everyday decisions in work and family. Living surrendered means trading striving for God's strength.

Anyone who has studied the Third Commandment in confirmation class has encountered Colossians 2:16–17, which answers the question, “Why don't Christians have to worship on Saturday (the Sabbath) as the Israelites did in the Old Testament?” St. Paul writes, “Therefore let no one pass judgment on you in questions of food and drink, or with regard to a festival or a new moon or a Sabbath. These are a shadow of the things to come, but the substance [literally, “body”] belongs to Christ.” Not only does this passage teach that under the New Testament Christians are not obligated to keep Old Testament ceremonial or political laws (although the moral Law does continue to apply to all people of all times and all places), but it also leads Christians to ask, “Why would we try to cling to mere shadows of our Savior, when He is really present in His Body, the church?” We have Jesus as our Bridegroom, so we lack nothing. Nevertheless, the New Testament does use types, examples and shadows from the Old Testament to teach us about life in Christ and in the church. We can gain insights into the New Testament Means of Grace by opening the Old Testament. Rev. Carl Roth, pastor of Grace Lutheran Church in Elgin, TX, joins Sarah to talk about the “Searching Scripture” feature in the September 2025 issue of the Lutheran Witness titled “Sacramental Shadows” on Exodus 13 & 14. This year, “Searching Scripture” is themed “Opening the Old Testament” and will walk through ways that the Old Testament witnesses to Jesus Christ and His grace, mercy and peace, delivered through the holy Christian church. Follow along every month and search Scripture with us! Find online exclusives of the Lutheran Witness at witness.lcms.org and subscribe to the Lutheran Witness at cph.org/witness.

Send us a textIn this episode, we're diving into the powerful impact of short-term mission trips.What happens when ordinary people leave their routines and step into a new culture with the gospel? Pastor Bob, who's led over 100 trips, "bootcamp for sanctification:—a chance for accelerated spiritual growth. Here is a couple topics we explore:Why does First Baptist Church Tampa prioritize these global partnerships?Do long-term missionaries really prefer teams over financial support?How do these trips reveal hidden gifts and callings in church members, from shy teens to confident adults?This conversation will challenge your perspective on short-term missions, whether you're a seasoned veteran or have never considered going. Because ultimately, we're all missionaries, called to connect people to a life in Christ wherever we are. Find out more on this episode of Unsexy Church!

Anyone who has studied the Third Commandment in confirmation class has encountered Colossians 2:16–17, which answers the question, “Why don't Christians have to worship on Saturday (the Sabbath) as the Israelites did in the Old Testament?” St. Paul writes, “Therefore let no one pass judgment on you in questions of food and drink, or with regard to a festival or a new moon or a Sabbath. These are a shadow of the things to come, but the substance [literally, “body”] belongs to Christ.” Not only does this passage teach that under the New Testament Christians are not obligated to keep Old Testament ceremonial or political laws (although the moral Law does continue to apply to all people of all times and all places), but it also leads Christians to ask, “Why would we try to cling to mere shadows of our Savior, when He is really present in His Body, the church?” We have Jesus as our Bridegroom, so we lack nothing. Nevertheless, the New Testament does use types, examples and shadows from the Old Testament to teach us about life in Christ and in the church. We can gain insights into the New Testament Means of Grace by opening the Old Testament. Rev. Carl Roth, pastor of Grace Lutheran Church in Elgin, TX, joins Sarah to talk about the “Searching Scripture” feature in the September 2025 issue of the Lutheran Witness titled “Sacramental Shadows” on Exodus 13 & 14. This year, “Searching Scripture” is themed “Opening the Old Testament” and will walk through ways that the Old Testament witnesses to Jesus Christ and His grace, mercy and peace, delivered through the holy Christian church. Follow along every month and search Scripture with us! Find online exclusives of the Lutheran Witness at witness.lcms.org and subscribe to the Lutheran Witness at cph.org/witness. As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.