Podcasts about like paul

Life can silence us, but God still deserves our praise. In today's devotion, rediscover why singing in the difficult times matters. Like Paul and Silas, your midnight song might just trigger a miracle.

 In Galatians 1:11–2:10, Paul defends the gospel he received from Jesus—a message confirmed by the apostles and driving his mission to the Gentiles. Like Paul, NorthWest Haiti Christian Mission continues to follow God's lead with the same core objective: to love God, love our neighbors, and bring others to Jesus.

God is building a legacy through you—right where you are. Like Paul in Acts 28, you're called to boldly live out the Kingdom of God in your everyday life. The Kingdom moves through your words, your actions, and your obedience. Your next chapter could be your most impactful one. Step into your Kingdom legacy today.

God is building a legacy through you—right where you are. Like Paul in Acts 28, you're called to boldly live out the Kingdom of God in your everyday life. The Kingdom moves through your words, your actions, and your obedience. Your next chapter could be your most impactful one. Step into your Kingdom legacy today.

God is building a legacy through you—right where you are. Like Paul in Acts 28, you're called to boldly live out the Kingdom of God in your everyday life. The Kingdom moves through your words, your actions, and your obedience. Your next chapter could be your most impactful one. Step into your Kingdom legacy today.

Compelled by the Holy Spirit to preach the good news in Jerusalem despite the danger, Paul says farewell to the Ephesian elders. Like Paul, we are invited to find strength in the Lord when walking through hardship.

Boldness doesn't come from personality — it comes from knowing Jesus deeply. Like Paul in Acts 26, we become bold when the gospel becomes personal. Real boldness starts in private with God, and overflows into how we pray, serve, and share hope with others. Who in your life is waiting for you to boldly share Christ?

Boldness doesn't come from personality — it comes from knowing Jesus deeply. Like Paul in Acts 26, we become bold when the gospel becomes personal. Real boldness starts in private with God, and overflows into how we pray, serve, and share hope with others. Who in your life is waiting for you to boldly share Christ?

Boldness doesn't come from personality — it comes from knowing Jesus deeply. Like Paul in Acts 26, we become bold when the gospel becomes personal. Real boldness starts in private with God, and overflows into how we pray, serve, and share hope with others. Who in your life is waiting for you to boldly share Christ?

“Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:12-14). Yesterday, Pastor Michael described the “upward spiral” of the Christian life, the continual dying and rising with Christ by which we are transformed more fully into his likeness. Today's verses continue to unpack what this process looks like. The letter to the Philippians talks a fair bit about having the same mindset as Christ. This, it seems for Paul, is the measure of Christian maturity, and we've seen some examples of his teaching in this regard already in our exploration of the letter. In today's verses, he uses athletic language to describe this effort: “straining toward what is ahead” and “press[ing] on toward the goal to win the prize.” Just as an athlete trains for a grueling race, so too striving after union with Christ requires a single-mindedness and self-denial.  But is striving for perfection in every step the goal Paul is describing? I'm not sure that's quite it. Paul notes that as he strives toward the prize, he must forget what is behind him. Think about Paul's history. In an earlier chapter of his life, he had been a lead persecutor of followers of Christ. He certainly had been the antithesis of what he is describing in this passage. And yet he knows himself to have been taken hold of by Christ. Were he to dwell forever on the mistakes of his past, living a life of perpetual regret, he would not have been able to do the work God had for him to do. And the challenges don't only seem to be in the past; the language of “straining” or “pressing” implies the kind of daily present hardships that Pastor Michael described yesterday. So if Christian maturity Paul describes here is not past or present perfection, what is it? Paul locates the fullness of Christian maturity in the future–a divinely appointed goal to press toward. A goal toward which God has called, and thus for which Christ followers can expect to be supported by the Spirit.  What is perhaps most significant about what Paul says here is that, because Christian maturity is a future prize toward which a believer and believing community strains together with the Spirit's help, Christian maturity is not, at least in this life, a final destination. If a believer is pretty confident that they've already reached the fullest extent of Christian maturity, that's probably not a good sign.  If your past is full of failures or sins, or you consider yourself in a position now where you are still struggling, desiring faithfulness, but falling short–you're not a liability to Christ. Because Paul teaches that Christian maturity is not confidence of full attainment already, but a desire to grow, to admit past failures but not allow them to compromise our present or future witness, and to trust in God's calling and follow it with a single-minded focus and fervour. Like Paul, we do not consider ourselves having taken hold of all that is ours. Rather, we trust that our God is accompanying us on the journey, and there is much goodness that lies ahead. So as you journey on, go with the blessing of God: May the peace of the Lord Christ go with you: wherever he may send you. May he guide you through the wilderness: protect you through the storm. May he bring you home rejoicing; at the wonders he has shown you. May he bring you home rejoicing once again into our doors.  

2 Corinthians 12:1-13 Christ's Power Made Perfect in Weakness Please turn to 2 Corinthians chapter 12. That is on page 1152 of your pew Bibles. We are on the home stretch in our 2 Corinthians study. We'll be wrapping up our series over the next 4 weeks. This morning, we'll cover chapter 12 verses 1-13. It has one of the most well-known verses in the book. And it's a great one. The Lord said to Paul “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” What a tremendous promise. As I read, listen for the context of that promise. Also listen for the unique experiences and gifts given to the apostles. Reading of 2 Corinthians 12:1-13. Prayer “To live is to suffer.” That well-known quote has been attributed to a couple of people in history. Again, “To live is to suffer.” Whoever said it has captured one of the common experiences of all mankind. To be sure, it doesn't capture all the things we share, but it does capture the fact that we live in a fallen world. And part of that fallenness, which we all experience, is suffering. We each endure pain and suffering. Some to a greater extent and others to a lesser one. Some of our suffering is physical, other suffering is emotional. Some of it has been inflicted upon us by others. Some of our suffering is due to the imperfections of our minds and bodies. To use the words of Romans 8, the whole creation has been groaning… and we groan inwardly. You may struggle with chronic illness or live with the results of an accident. Or endure the effects of a disease that you had, or perhaps you were born with a condition of some kind that affects you every day. Maybe you have or have had cancer, or endure debilitating headaches, or struggle with vertigo, or seizures or mental illness. Or maybe the burden you carry is the suffering that a loved one is enduring. All of it is hard. All of it weighs on us. We lose sleep. We shed tears of heartache. Like Paul, we plead for the Lord to relieve our pain and suffering. We cry out for help. We long to be comforted and we long to be whole. Out of all the verses in the entire Bible, I think 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 brings the greatest comfort and hope to our souls. It directs us to the source of our comfort and it reveals from where we can draw strength in weakness. And that is, in Christ. I hope and pray that you will leave here today with a renewed strength in God as you endure suffering and sickness. But before we get to those precious verses, verses 7-10, let's first figure out what this third heaven is and who experienced it, and then ponder Paul's thorn in the flesh. I think understanding those things will in fact increase your comfort from this Word. By the way, I did get an outline in the bulletin this week. It's there on page 4. We're first going to look at Paul's calling as an Apostle (you know, capital A, Apostle), including the things unique to his role, as well as the things we share with him. And then second, we'll apply God's grace in Christ in our own weaknesses. 1. Paul's unique calling and our shared struggle So, #1, Paul's unique calling and our shared struggle. Remember, the whole reason that Paul has entered into the foolishness of boasting is because of the so-called super-apostles. They're mentioned here, again. They had elevated themselves. They taught a false Gospel. And they undermined Paul and his teaching. All of it threatened the stability and future of the church in Corinth. Therefore, Paul needed to demonstrate his trustworthiness and the truth of the Gospel he proclaimed. So, Paul had to boast, but it pained him. It pained him because he knew that any and all of the ministry that has happened through him was not because of himself. No, it was all attributable to God. Paul had a special calling as an Apostle, but he knew he was unworthy of that role, yet God had called him to it. So, he's been boasting over these last 2 chapters only to counter the super apostles. And now, in chapter 12 verse 1, he continues to boast and says, “I will go on to visions and revelations.” And then look at verse 2. He begins, “I know a man” and then describes the revelations that this guy experienced. Who is that guy? Well, it's Paul himself. He basically says so in verse 7. “So to keep me from becoming conceited because of the surpassing greatness of the revelations [you know, the thing he just described], a thorn was given me in the flesh” This is like saying today, “Asking for a friend.” Like “is it ok to wear the same pair of socks two days in a row? asking for a friend.” You say “asking for a friend” because you really don't want to admit you are the one asking. But everyone knows, it's really you. Paul referred to himself in the third person because he just can't bring himself to boast about the amazing revelations he's seen. This man, AKA, Paul, has been caught up into “third heaven.” What in the world is the third heaven?  Well, at that time, there was a well-known way to describe the different levels of the heavens. The first heaven was the realm of the clouds and the blue sky; if you will, our atmosphere. The second heaven was the realm of the sun, moon, and stars, what we call outer space. And the third heaven was the spiritual realm, what we just call heaven – in the presence of the Lord. Paul describes it in verse 3 as “paradise.” So, Paul, as an apostle had been given a revelation of heaven. It was so real to him, he didn't even know if he was in the body or out of the body. Had God physically taken him to heaven to see its wonders, or had God only brought his spirit to see and hear? Paul didn't know. But he did know… it was unspeakably amazing. Now, in the book of Revelation, we are given a glimpse into this kind of revelation. The apostle John was taken up into heaven and Jesus revealed to him many things. John was told to write down what he saw and heard. Paul, on the other hand was told not to. In some way, it was to assure him of the truth and of God's promises. I mean, think of all the suffering that Paul had to endure as an apostle. Think of all those things that we considered in chapter 11. The beatings, the shipwrecks, the dangers. Would not the visions revealed to Paul give him confidence in God. Would they not inspire and motivate him to persevere as an Apostle despite the suffering that he would endure? Of course they would. They would do all those things. But he couldn't boast about the revelations as himself. He could only boast about them in his God ordained role as a true apostle. Now, jump down to verse 12. It's very similar in this regard. He writes, “The signs of a true apostle were performed among you with utmost patience, with signs and wonders and mighty works.” Same thing. In verse 12 Paul can't even name himself as the one who performed the signs. So, he uses a passive voice. But the Corinthians were there. They knew full well that it was Paul that performed the signs and wonders… which, by the way, were likely healings and miracles. Besides Paul, other apostles performed them. We have record of several in the book of Acts. Consider this. Out of all the arguments about Paul's true apostleship, these are the strongest - visions and revelations and signs and wonders. Yet in all of it, Paul minimized himself and exalted God. Now, we don't share in those special things. We're not apostles…  Those things were given to the apostles. But there is something we do share with them. We share in their weaknesses. All throughout 2 Corinthians, we've studied the emphasis on suffering. To be sure, Paul has demonstrated his unique roll as a suffering servant for Christ. But he's also expanded God's teaching to includes all believers. Chapter 1: remember, we share in the suffering of Christ and in his comfort. Chapter 4: we have the unbreakable treasure of the Gospel in our breakable jars of clay bodies. Chapter 5: we groan in the tent that is our earthly body, and we long to put on our heavenly body. And now in chapter 12. Christ's power is made perfect in weakness. And furthermore, just like Paul, we each have thorns in our flesh. We share those things. OK, you are probably wondering: what was Paul's thorn? As you can imagine, there have been dozens of proposals through the centuries. Some have suggested Paul's thorn was a physical ailment such as migraines, or a speech impediment, or an eye condition, or some kind of disfigurement. That's possible. Others have suggested it was more opposition to his work. That view sees the messenger of Satan as an individual or group opposed to Paul. They were  “thorns in his flesh” so to speak. That's also possible. Personally, I think it was more likely a physical condition given that he calls it a thorn in his “flesh.” But in the end, it doesn't matter. The Holy Spirit saw fit in his wisdom to not identify the thorn. We don't need to know. And in many ways, it is helpful for us not to know. In fact, look at verse 10. Notice that the types of suffering listed are broad.  “weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities.” Those are basically all the kinds of suffering that we experience. All of it is a result of living in a fallen world. Our thorns in the flesh could be many things. Let me share one of my “thorns in the flesh.” 18 years ago, I was teaching a class. It was an intensive 5-day class in my field of work at the time. In the middle of the class on I think the second or third day, I lost my ability to say certain words. I would be in the middle of a sentence, and I couldn't say the next word. I had never experienced that before. It was a kind of stuttering. There were certain consonants that just wouldn't come out. I would get locked up. I had a hard time speaking. It was overwhelming. I was afraid and I didn't know what to do at first. At the time, I was only maybe 10 seminary classes away from finishing my degree. A career change was on my mind in the future. And I thought, if I can't talk clearly, I can't teach the Bible or preach. I prayed for healing and for the Lord to give me strength. Amy, of course, was a big encouragement. I was able to get some help. There are ceratin strategies to navigate those moments. It's mostly gone, but occasionally it comes back. Even today, I have to pause or take a breath before I can say certain words. And you probably don't notice it. Honestly, I don't remember if 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 came to mind in those difficult days. But certainly, its truths have become real to me. It was humbling, like Paul experienced with his thorn in the flesh. And it's been a constant reminder to rely on the Lord and his strength and his grace in my weakness. I know many of you have a different thorn, but we share the same strength and grace. Strength in Christ and grace in him. 2. God's grace in Christ and his power in our weakness Which brings us to main point number 2. God's grace in Christ and his power in our weakness. We'll spend the rest of our time applying these truths to our suffering and weakness. The first thing to note is that there are two causes here. Besides the thorn being in God's sovereign plan, Satan was also present to tempt Paul. Maybe the apostle Paul has Job in mind. We read from Job chapter 2 earlier. God allowed Satan to afflict Job. Satan thought that Job would curse God, but Job stood firm through that temptation. So did the apostle. I think every single one of us understands the temptation of weakness. God, where are you? Why have you not brought healing or restoration? Have you forgotten me? Have I done something to deserve this? Those are the questions we struggles through. And let me say, if there's nothing else you remember from 2 Corinthians, remember that God ministers to us in our suffering. He understands our suffering, he is with us in it, and he uses it for his purposes. One big thing that 2 Corinthians has taught us is to reorient our theology of suffering. We've learned that God uses suffering in our life for his purposes. And, throughout the book, we've been given hope and strength to endure. But what are those purposes? Well, to name a few… In chapter 1, we learned that affliction helps us to rely on God more. That's certainly true. Suffering should drive us to Christ. God also uses our affliction so that we can minister to others who similarly suffer. Remember, we are able to comfort others with the comfort which we ourselves are comforted by God. In Chapter 4, God directed our attention in suffering to the eternal weight of glory. Our suffering points us to heaven and the amazing glory that we will experience. And here in chapter 12, God used Paul's thorn in two ways. (1) to keep him from being conceited -to humble him. Suffering certainly does that. And (2), to remind Paul of God's grace as he endured his suffering. Suffering helps us to lay hold of God's grace. That really encapsulates the first subpoint in point #2 - Knowing God's purposes in our weakness (12:7-8) God is at work in your suffering. Do you believe that? Do you believe that God is conforming you more and more to the image of his Son. It's true. Through suffering, God may be releasing your reliance on the world or the world's things. That's possible. He may be getting hold of your attention. Or maybe it's all of those things or something all together different. Whatever it is, know this: God is at work accomplishing his purposes in your suffering. Number 2, the second subpoint. If you are a believer in Christ, you have God's grace. You have God's undeserved mercy in Christ. And that grace, as verse 9 reminds us, IS sufficient for you in your weakness. It is sufficient because the power of Christ has come through weakness. Jesus suffered in this life. He endured the trials and pain and torture unto death. It was through those things, through that affliction and weakness, that God has brought salvation to the world. Isn't it amazing to consider how the weakness and suffering of our savior ultimately demonstrated his power? That is the power that verse 9 is talking about. In the cross of Christ is the power to save, and the power to sanctify, and the power to overcome sin and Satan. It is that power, the power of Christ which rests upon us, as verse 9 puts it. So, beloved in Christ, in your weaknesses and trials and suffering, remind yourself of that grace which he gives. It is eternally sufficient to sustain you. That brings us to the third sub-point listed there. Contentment. Paul says in verse 10, “For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities.” None of us, by nature, are content with any of those things. We could go through that list and talk about how in each of those things we can become resentful. For example, take that last one – calamities. This last week has been so very hard with the flooding in Texas. Our hearts ache for the families who have lost loved ones, especially those little girls. Yes, we should be crying out to God, but our hearts should at the same time not become resentful. We can grieve and ask God why, but we can do that with a humble contentment in God's promises and what he is doing through that disaster. By the way, that word contentment, in the Greek, means to take pleasure in the implications of something. We can be content because we know that God's purposes are being fulfilled in those things. As Romans 8:28 says, we know that all things work together for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purposes. It doesn't say all things are good. It says, all things work together for the good of those who love him. The difficult providence of suffering is not what we would choose for ourselves or others, but God uses it. He uses it to accomplish his purposes as he has in Paul. The question is whether we will allow our suffering to drive us away from Christ and cause us to become resentful or whether we will allow our suffering to drive us to Christ and be content in him through it. The last subpoint, #4. Embracing his strength in our weakness. Really the second half of verse 10 summarizes it all. “For when I am weak, then I am strong.” This is totally contrary to our sensibilities. Strength, according to the world, is being firm and leading with confidence. It's being self-reliant and influencing others through our position. Strength in the world is about achievements and successes. In other words, it's all the things that the super-apostles were about. But none of those things will help you in the trials and tribulations of life. Rather, strength comes through weakness. That's the paradox of the Gospel. We are strong through weakness when we humble ourselves and rely on Christ alone by faith. We are strong when we submit to him no matter the suffering we face. It doesn't mean we can't lament. Many of the Psalms are Psalms of lament. We are strong when we allow God to mold and shape us in our suffering. All that strength in weakness comes through Jesus Christ. Though he possessed the full glory of God as God, yet he set aside that glory and became weak. He took on the weakness of human flesh. He endured the sufferings and afflictions of this life. He bore our sin on the cross. But he was raised in power and exalted on high. You see, his grace IS sufficient because his power IS made perfect in weakness. And because he shares in our weakness, we share in his strength. That strength will sustain you through all the suffering in this life. The devil may tempt you. Your fear and pain may at times may be overwhelming, but in those moments, renew your faith in Christ. Look to him knowing that his purposes are being fulfilled in you, and know that nothing will separate you from him. Back to Romans 8 one more time. “neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.” May we grasp on to that great truth through whatever weakness and suffering we endure. Amen.

We're thrilled to welcome back our founding pastor, Kevin McGhee who brings us a sermon titled, "Praying Like Paul"

Romans 1:18-32 & Psalm 145 Song: Revelation Song (Jennie Lee Riddle) According to Romans 1, failure to praise and adore God leads to: Sinful desires Idolatry Foolish thinking and a depraved mind According to Psalm 145, praise and adoration of God leads to: Experiencing his grace and compassionate love Experiencing his goodness, mighty acts, majesty, and faithfulness Provision for our needs and the fulfillment of right desires Experiencing his nearness and attentive care Application 1. Like Paul describes in Romans, or as David describes in Psalms, have you experienced any tangible direct results from praising God or of failing to praise God? 2. Is there something in your life that competes for first place with God? Is there a habit or way of thinking that takes you farther away from God rather than closer to? Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you in taking action to worship and serve God first. Share this with a friend or mentor for accountability. 3. What practical ways could you practice adoration and praise every day? For example, sing a song to God in your quiet time? Keep a journal of things you are grateful for? Serve others with the intentional understanding/perspective that you are doing so as an act of love for God? Get creative!

Lesson presented at The Crossings Church Collinsville in Collinsville, IL – a non-denominational church that meets Sunday mornings at 2002 Mall Street, Collinsville, IL just outside of St. Louis. For more like this, visit the sermons page at https://crossingscollinsville.com/ The post Wes Woodell – Praying Like Paul appeared first on The Crossings Church Collinsville.

We are wrapping up our series on the topic of worship with some honest talk, because here's the thing: worshipping God from the heart isn't always easy. There are times when worship comes easily—when life is good, prayers are answered, and joy overflows. But what about when it's not? What about when your heart is heavy, when questions remain unanswered, and when hope feels distant? That is the place where worship sacrifices. Some would say it's hypocritical to praise when you don't feel like it. God says, it's not hypocrisy, it's obedience.  Hebrews 13:15 says: “Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise – the fruit of lips that confess His name.”Praise and worship are never to be slaves to our circumstances but masters over them.  Sacrifice has been part of worship since the beginning. And while Jesus' death and resurrection mean blood sacrifice is no longer needed, there is still a place for sacrifice in our praise. There is still a time when our worship of God costs us something. Will we worship even then? Is He still worthy of our praise—even when it's hard? Here are three conditions when worship may require sacrifice for you in the days ahead. 1.     When someone has hurt or wronged you. (Acts 16)Like Paul and Silas, you, too, to varying degrees, are going to be hurt by people. You're going to be wronged and mistreated. And you're going to face the challenge of how you're going to respond.  Will you commit to offering a sacrifice of praise anyway?  Is God still worthy of your praise?Christ is often most clearly shown when in our mistreatment, when things are totally unfair, and we worship anyway. It's then that people wonder, “What is it that you have?  What do you know? Whatever it is, I want it.” 2.     When you are deeply disappointed. (Habakkuk 3:17-18)What happens to your worship when things don't turn out the way you'd hoped? For the prophet Habakkuk, his worship rose like a defiant “nevertheless.” Even in the face of all these hard things, even when things don't go my way…I will rejoice in the Lord. 3.     When you're worried or afraid. (Psalm 27)David is faced with threats of all kinds, yet even in the middle of all these fears, the one thing he knows he needs is worship. He knew that in the sanctuary, in God's presence, he would find perspective and the recovery of hope. Note what happened in each of these stories. Worship came first, and then came the transformation. The sacrifice of praise was offered before circumstances changed. Now it's our turn. Will you allow the circumstances to silence your praise, or will you determine to offer God a sacrifice of praise? Give God the worship that perhaps touches His heart the most, and in the process, you may find Him to be everything you need. Text: Heb. 13:15; Acts 16; Hab. 3:17-18; Ps. 27Originally recorded on February 7, 1999, at Fellowship Missionary Church, Fort Wayne, IN

Think of an answer to prayer you never received, a time when you trusted God to do something and He didn't. A situation where you were disappointed by God. What are we to make of these instances where we had faith the size of a mustard seed to see a mountain move but it didn't budge?In This Message, The Miracle You Never Saw Coming, Pastor Levi Lusko examines The Chosen's powerful portrayal of "Little James" being called to heal others while living with his own disability, revealing how God's power can flow through us even when we still limp.From The Chosen Season 3, Episode 2 "Two by Two" - witness the tension of being commissioned to participate in healing you yourself have never experienced. This conversation between Jesus and Little James isn't directly in the Bible, but it's thoroughly biblical from Genesis to Revelation: power out of pain and strength out of weakness.Scripture Focus: 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 & Luke 6:15Discover what it means to have the power of God on your life but still limp through with the pains, heartaches, and difficulties of life. Like Paul's thorn in the flesh, sometimes God chooses to work through us but not for us. Could God be glorified by a trial He chooses to allow to remain?3 Things You Must Know to Survive Saturday (the space between Good Friday and Easter):Pain Is a ProblemPain Has a ProblemPain Is Not Your ProblemThe miracle you never saw coming? The one that happens inside you. Sometimes the mountain that needs moving is inside you, and sustaining grace is every bit as miraculous as the signs and wonders we crave.ABOUT THE SERIES:Is that in the Bible? That's the question we're asking in this five-week series. We're taking cinematic moments from The Chosen and pressing in—opening the Word, digging deep, and letting Scripture speak for itself. Together, with teachings captured from the set of The Chosen, we'll wrestle with the tension, lean into the humanity, and see the life of Jesus through fresh eyes.ABOUT FRESH LIFE:Fresh Life Church was pioneered by Pastors Levi and Jennie Lusko in 2007. We exist to see those stranded in sin find life and liberty in Jesus Christ. Today Fresh Life's ministry impacts people with the radical, life-changing message of Jesus' grace, spilling across Montana, Oregon, Utah, Wyoming, and Idaho… and beyond.ABOUT THE CHOSEN:The Chosen is a groundbreaking historical drama based on the life of Jesus, seen through the eyes of those who knew him.NEXT STEPS:To register a decision to follow Jesus, click here:https://freshlife.church/know-godTo ask for prayer or connect with your team, click here: https://freshlife.church/contactTo give to this ministry and join what God is doing to reach people around the world, click here:  https://freshlife.church/giveTo download Is That In The Bible?: The Chosen series resources: https://open.life.church/resources/6483-is-that-in-the-bibleCONNECT ONLINE:Subscribe - https://www.youtube.com/c/freshlifech...Website - https://freshlife.churchFacebook -  / freshlifechurchInstagram -  / freshlifeTwitter -  / freshlifeYoutube -  / freshlifechurch  

A Sermon for the Second Sunday after Trinity 1 John 3:13-24 & St. Luke 14:16-24 by William Klock Another town.  Another Sabbath.  And Jesus found himself in the synagogue reading the scriptures.  He'd spent the last few days doing the usual Messiah things: healing the sick, casting out demons, proclaiming good news to the poor, calling the people to repentance because God's kingdom was coming.  Some people loved it.  Others hated it.  If Jesus was the Messiah, he sure was doing it all wrong.  St. Luke says some of the Pharisees were determined to trap him.  They lurked everywhere he went, waiting for him to do or to say just the wrong thing that would get him into trouble.  “See!  See!” they want to shout to the crowds.  “He's a fake!”  If they were really lucky, maybe Jesus would do something downright arrestable and he'd end up in jail.  So far, no such luck. One of the leading Pharisees in this town invited him to lunch after the synagogue service.  If nothing else, it would look good to have this popular rabbi in his house, but maybe he'd get lucky.  Maybe he'd catch Jesus breaking the law red-handed.  And lo and behold as Jesus arrived at this Pharisees' house, he met a man whose limbs were swollen with dropsy.  I doubt he was invited.  The rabbis taught that dropsy was the Lord's punishment for secret sexual sins.  But in those days, doors were open, people came and went from banquets.  The poor and needy would show up looking for handouts.  On any other day, this Pharisee might have shooed away the man with dropsy, but not today.  It was a perfect opportunity to see what Jesus would do.  It was a given that Jesus healed the sick—but would he do his messianic doctoring on the Sabbath? But instead of letting himself be put on the spot, Jesus—as he so often did—flips the tables.  He takes one look at the afflicted man, then turns to the Pharisee and his torah-expert friends and puts them on the spot.  “Is it lawful to heal on the sabbath or not?” he asked.  They really should have seen that coming.  Now, no matter what they said, they'd condemn themselves.  And so while they stood there looking awkward, Jesus healed the man with dropsy and sent him away.  And then he turned back to the Pharisees and to the lawyers and said, “Suppose one of you has a son—or an ox—that falls in a well.  Are you going to tell me you won't pull him out straightaway even on the sabbath day?”  And, of course, they just looked at him.  They had nothing to say that wouldn't condemn them.  Because if their son or their ox fell in a well, even on the sabbath, of course they'd pull him out. It was hard to hear.  The Pharisees were right about a lot of things. They knew that Israel was supposed to be a bubble of God's light in the middle of a dark world.  They were the people who lived with the living God in their midst.  They were his people, graciously chosen, delivered from bondage, and made holy for just this task: to be light in the darkness.  The Pharisees were zealous for the law because they were grateful for God's grace.  Not all of the people in Israel were as faithful as the Pharisees.  The Pharisees tried to live their lives—even the little things—as if they were in the temple, in the presence of God.  They saw themselves as walking manifestations of God's light and of his kingdom—walking bubbles of what the world is supposed to be like.  And Jesus just exposed them, because as much as they were right on a lot of things, they'd forgotten the most important thing.  The law was about more than do this and don't to that.  It was about loving God and loving neighbour.  It was about showing others the same grace, the same lovingkindness that God had shown to them.  They knew this deep down, but somehow, through the generations, they'd forgotten.  Instead of being a light to lighten those lost in the dark, they were being light to shame and condemn those lost in the dark—and that's not light at all. At this point Jesus had already spoiled the party, so he just kept going.  Luke tells us in 14:7 that Jesus noticed how each guest claimed the best seat he could, so he told them that God's people should, instead, be humble.  “If you go to a wedding and just assume you can sit in the seat of honour, the host is going to tell you to move so the real guest of honour can sit there and you'll look like a fool in front of everyone.  No.  Instead, be humble.  Take the lowliest seat and let your host offer you a better place.” They were starting to figure out what Jesus was getting at.  He said, “Everyone who pushes himself forward will be humbled, and everyone who humbles himself will be honoured.”  They knew this wasn't just about banquets.  Jesus was saying that the way these leaders of Israel were behaving at banquets had become representative of how they thought of themselves in relation to God and to each other.  They acted like God had chosen them because they were special when it was really the other way around: They were special because God had chosen them.  They knew better—just like we do.  They knew God chose Israel because he is gracious.  But they didn't act like it. So Jesus says: If you truly want to represent God and his kingdom, stop thinking so loftily of yourselves, stop avoiding the people who aren't like you and who don't share your status, and start throwing banquets for the crippled, the lame, and the blind.  Rejoice when sinners repent.  Rejoice when God saves the lost.  That's what God has done for you, after all—you've just forgotten. Everyone could feel the tension in the room growing and that's when some poor, clueless soul shouted out, “A blessing on everyone who eats bread in the kingdom of God.”  Maybe he'd totally missed point.  Maybe he was just trying to defuse the situation.  Blessed, indeed, is everyone who will eat bread in the kingdom of God, but who will be there.  That was Jesus' point.  These people were sure they'd be there, but in so many ways the way they acted and the way they saw themselves said otherwise.  They weren't the walking bubbles of the kingdom they thought they were.  For all their holiness, they were really more like walking bubbles of darkness. So in response, Jesus told them another parable.  This is our Gospel today beginning at Luke 14:16. Jesus said, “Once a man made a great dinner, and invited lots of guests.  When the time for the meal arrived, he sent his servants to say to the guests, ‘Come now.  Everything is ready!'  But the whole lot of them began to make excuses.  The first said, ‘I've just bought a field, and I really have to go and see it. Please accept my apologies.'  Another one said, ‘I've just bought five yoke of oxen, and I've got to go and test them out.  Please accept my apologies.'  And another said, ‘I've just got married, so naturally I can't come.'  So the servant went back and told his master all this. As they sat eating what was probably a simple sabbath lunch prepared the day before, Jesus brings to mind an elaborate and expensive feast—the sort of thing that took days to prepare and that cost so much that the man throwing the part would send out invitation months in advance.  And the guests responded, “Yes, we'll be there!” and he made preparations.  So much wine and so much fruit.  So much meat and so much bread.  He arranged for musicians and dancers and other entertainers.  He got his house ready.  He sent his servants around to remind everyone.  And then the day of, he put on his finest clothes, threw open his doors—and no one came.  So he sent his servant out to find out what was up with his guests.  And they all had excuses.  This one bought a field sight unseen and had to go have a look at it.  This one bought a bunch of oxen and just had to try them out.  Another just got married.  Obviously his honeymoon was more important than this man's great feast. Imagine all the effort and expense that this man invested.  It was a huge deal for him.  But no one else cared.  No one else valued all that he had done for them.  Imagine how you'd feel if no one came to your wedding banquet after they all returned their RSVP cards saying they'd be there.  Jesus says the man was understandably angry, but he wasn't going to let all his expense and preparations go to waste. ‘Go out quickly,' he said to his servant.  ‘Go into the streets and lanes of the town and bring in here the poor, the crippled, the lame, and the blind.'  ‘Alright, Master,' the servant said, ‘I've done that—but there's still room.'  ‘Well then,' said the master to the servant, ‘go out to the highways and the hedges and make them come in, so that my house may be full!  Let me tell you this: none of those people who were invited will get to taste my dinner.' If his rich friends won't come, he'll invite the poor.  Notice that his servant literally has to bring, to compel them to come to the banquet.  Imagine what the poor people in the town thought at the invitation.  Imagine what the blind beggar sleeping in a ditch thought when this rich man's servant pulled him up and dragged him into a fancy house full of fancy food.  They would have thought it was a joke, at least until they actually got there.  That's why the servant had to compel them to come, because they knew how these things worked.  They didn't belong.  But the rich man brought them in.  He brought them all in.  And they had the time of their lives—and, I think, so did he. Now, Luke doesn't tell us how the Pharisees responded.  In the next verse he jumps to a completely different time and place.  But we know.  We know that this just made them angrier and more hostile to Jesus—not every last one of them, but most of them.  Eventually they'd be angry enough that they'd conspire to have Jesus arrested.  But why did the things that Jesus did and said at that sabbath lunch make them so angry? So remember that the Jews, and especially the Pharisees, were waiting for the Lord's return.  The prophets had talked about that day in terms of a great banquet and this banquet idea then became a common image of the coming Day of the Lord.  Israel's God would return to judge and to cast down the nations (and the unfaithful within Israel—like the tax collectors and the sinner with dropsy) and then he'd throw a great feast for his beloved people.  The closest things they had to describe it was their entry into the promised land, the land of milk and honey, and the prosperous days of King David.  It would be like that, only a thousand times more so.  When Jesus told a story of a man preparing a great feast, everyone listening knew he was talking about the Lord and how he would come to deliver his people and set everything to rights and usher in the age to come—the age when they would feast in his presence.  And now Jesus explains that he's come to throw open the doors to God's great banquet.  This is what Israel has been waiting for all these years.  And yet Jesus rebukes them.  This isn't the first time the Lord has extended his invitation.  For centuries he had called to his people through the prophets, but they had refused to hear the prophets and had even killed some of them.  The Pharisees knew that and they were committed to making sure they didn't do the same thing.  Except that's exactly what they were doing.  This time God has spared no expense.  His people had rejected and killed the prophets.  This time he's sent his own son, who humbled himself to be born in their flesh.  He's travelled through Galilee and Judea, calling everyone to the banquet, but like the people in the parable, they all have excuses. And those excuses.  One man says that he's bought five yoke of oxen sight-unseen and has to check them over.  Another has bought a field sight-unseen and needs to go have a look at it.  The third just got married and has obligations to his new bride.  All three of these excuses have echoes that go back to the law in Deuteronomy.  A man who had built a new house, but hadn't dedicated it yet; a man who had bought a field, but hadn't enjoyed its produce; and a newly married man were all legitimately excused from going off to war.  And now these guests twist those laws as excuses to reject their host's banquet.  But this is what Israel had done with the law: twisting it into something it was never meant to be.  And it's that twisting of the law that was particularly exemplified by the Pharisees.  Jesus didn't meet their expectations of the Messiah.  His banquets included too many sinners, unclean people, and outsiders.  Those were the people that the Pharisees, with their hyper-holiness, left exposed.  The Messiah was supposed to come and feast with people like them, while raining down fire and brimstone on all those unholy people.  And so they scowled as Jesus forgave sins and welcomed home the prodigals.  The Pharisees had gutted the torah of its loving heart and that was profoundly exemplified by their angry glares as Jesus healed a sick man on the sabbath.  There could be no better way to celebrate the sabbath than to dance and sing and glorify God for his lovingkindness, but instead they tisked-tisked and frowned and gave Jesus disapproving how-dare-you scowls.  The angels rejoiced in heaven to see God's mighty works—but here on earth the people most expecting it, the people most longing for it, frowned and disapproved because God didn't do his mighty works according to what they thought the rules were.  That was their attitude towards Jesus' entire messianic ministry.  The banquet had come, but now they wanted nothing to do with it.  And so Jesus warns them: I'm going to take my invitation to the unclean and to the sick and to the poor—and even to the gentiles—and having rejected me, you will have no share in God's new creation.  If I were to let you in, you'd only mess it up—because you don't know what love is. The parable was a warning.  Matthew records it too, and I expect he was thinking of his people, most of whom continued to rejected Jesus even as their judgement day was so close.  But think of Luke.  He was one of those gentiles.  He was one of those poor men, sleeping in a ditch while the rich man prepared his banquet.  Maybe he didn't even know the banquet was going to happen.  He saw the caterers coming and going, wondered what it was all about, but he never expected to be there.  He'd never received an invitation, but more importantly, he wasn't even the right sort of person.  He was a gentile—uncircumcised and unclean.  Jews didn't associate with his sort.  And then the rich man's servant came, woke him up with a kick, and said, “Hey!  My master's thrown a banquet and no one came, so now he's inviting you to know his goodness.”  For Luke, that servant seems likely to have been the Apostle Paul.  And Paul gave Luke a firm gospel shove into the banquet.  And before he knew it Luke was dancing and singing and praising and glorify the God of Israel—the God of those weird, annoying Jews—and this God was like none of the gods he'd ever known.  This God was good and loving and most of all faithful.  And even though Luke, as a gentile, had no right to be at the banquet, he was welcomed in because when he heard about this Jesus, this Messiah who had died and risen from the dead, and he believed and he was caught up in God's great redemptive act of new creation. In fact, this unexpected and undeserved invitation to the banquet so transformed Luke that before too long he joined Paul as they set sail for Europe as gospel heralds—to proclaim to the lordship of Jesus.  A few years later he would join Paul on another missionary journey.  And about ten years after they'd left Troas that first time, Luke would journey with Paul on his final voyage, the one that took him to Rome to appeal his case before Caesar.  And not only was Luke, with Paul, singing the glories of Jesus and the God of Israel through Greece and on to Rome, he also talked to those who had met Jesus and he recorded their stories and wrote his gospel and then followed it up with the book of Acts.  Luke learned profoundly what grace is.  He knew profoundly the love of God.  Because even though he was a foreigner, through Jesus, the God of Israel had made him a son and even poured his own Spirit into him—including Luke in promises he had no natural right to be part of. Brothers and Sisters, Luke is us.  Like Paul hauling him out of the ditch and sending him into the banquet, the Lord's servants have come to us, proclaiming the good news about Jesus, hauling each of us out of our own ditch, giving us a gospel kick in the pants, and (with the Spirit's help) propelling us into God's great banquet.  We need a reminder of this, because we're prone to taking our place before the Lord for granted.  The Pharisees had their way of taking their family status for granted and we have our ways, but however we do it, it always seems to stem from forgetting that whether Jew or gentile, whether we were born into the family or whether we came later, we forget that it is by the gracious lovingkindness of God—who gave his son to die so that we who were his enemies can be here as his sons and daughters.  And when we forget the lovingkindness of God, we tend to become unloving ourselves—just like the Pharisees. Remember how Paul rebuked the Corinthians saying that they could have all sorts of spiritual gifts, but without love, they were might as well just be clanging cymbals?  Well, here's how John puts that same sentiment in today's Epistle—form the third chapter of his first letter: We know that we have passed from death to life, because we love the family.  Anyone who does not love abides in death.  Everyone who hates his brother or sister is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has the life of the coming age abiding in him.  This is how we know love: [Jesus] laid down his life for us.  And we too ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters.  Anyone who has the means of life in this world, and sees a brother or sister in need, and closes his heart against them—how can God's love be abiding in him?  Children, let us not love in word or in speech, but in deed and in truth. (1 John 3:14-18) Does God's love abide in us?  I think that all too often, we come to the banquet, to the Lord's Table.  We eat the bread and we drink the wine, but we've forgotten the amazing sacrifice of love in which we participate here.  We take the Lord's feast for granted.  Or maybe we eat it for the wrong reasons.  But we find some kind of assurance here, the Table reminds us that we belong to God and to his family, but then we go out into the world—or maybe we even interact with our brothers and sisters here—and instead of being bubbles of gospel light in the darkness, instead of being bubbles of God's future here in the present, we're darkness.  We call ourselves God's sons and daughters, we follow the rules, but there's no love.  We eat the Lord's bread and we drink the Lord's wine and we should be reminded of God's great provision for us, of his great blessings, but we ignore the needy.  Here we're reminded that in Jesus and because of his death on our behalf, we've been given life and have a share in God's new creation, but too often we keep it to ourselves instead of taking it to the highways and hedges.  Here we have the means of life, the gospel, the good news about Jesus, crucified and risen.  We know the gracious lovingkindness of God.  We don't belong here, but he's invited us anyway.  He's forgiven our sins and filled us with his Spirit and given us a promise of new creation.  And we go out to a world in need, people suffering physically and people dying spiritually, and we close our hearts against them. So, Brothers and Sisters, come the Lord's Table this morning and be reminded that in Jesus, God has humbled himself and given his life for our sake.  This is the defining act of love.  But don't just remember.  The Lord's Supper is more than an intellectual exercise.  As we eat the Lord's bread and drink his wine, we participate in that great act of love ourselves.  So be shaped, be transformed by the love of God made manifest at the cross.  Every time you come to the Table and participate in God's perfect love, let it define you more and more.  Abide in God's love and, more and more, let God's love abide in you, that you might truly be a gospel light in the darkness. Let us pray: Father, you delight to show mercy to sinners and you graciously sent your Son to suffer the punishment we deserve.  We have received your grace and have been given new life.  Remind us to set aside all thoughts of self-righteousness.  Give us opportunities now to share your gracious love with others—with each other and with the world, that everyone we encounter may be transformed by your gospel.  We ask this through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

Send us a textGood 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)Spiritbuilding.com - (premium quality paperback)Youtube Video Introducing the ContentFeel free to reach out with any questions: emersonk78@me.comRomans 7 Paul explores the believer's relationship with law and the ongoing struggle with sin. He explains that through Christ, Christians have died to the Old Law and are no longer bound by its demands, enabling them to bear fruit for God. The law itself is not sinful, but it reveals sin, emphasizing man's inability to achieve righteousness on his own. Paul shares his personal struggle, acknowledging the inner conflict between his desire to do good and the sin that too often resides within him. This tension exemplifies the human condition: even with a desire to obey God, sin remains a problem. If justification depends on perfectly adhering to the Law of Moses or any law, then there would be no hope. But “thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord!” Marriage illustrates that God's laws, be it matrimony, Moses's Law, or the law of conscience, bind for life. However, death severs this bond, allowing union with another. We should thank God daily for Jesus' death, which frees us from the burden of law and unites us with Him. No law apart from Christ—whether the law of Moses or Gentile morality—can save us, as we all fail to keep the law perfectly. While Christ's law does exist, our justification comes through grace, not perfect obedience. This truth is crucial as we continually wrestle with sin. Like Paul, we often stumble in frustrating, repeated ways. This struggle should deepen our thankfulness for Jesus, where forgiveness and hope are found. Dear Lord, we praise You for the freedom bestowed upon us through Your Son, Jesus Christ. Thank You for liberating us from the burden of law. None of us can perfectly uphold any law, and without Christ, there would be no hope of redemption for our sins. We honor You for redeeming us in Him and guiding us to follow His will and produce fruit of gratitude for You. Father, we mourn our sins. Too often, we wish to obey but still find ourselves falling short. Thank You for freeing us from the penalty of our failures through Jesus.  Thought Questions: -       Paul uses marriage as an example of the life-long intent of law. Does this principle of honoring marriage for life still hold today? -       Does redemption from the burden of the law mean we now have no law? Why must we still “bear fruit for God” in Christ's church?  -       Do you know the misery of choosing sin in the flesh when your spirit only wants to do right? How does Christ help you through such times?

In today's episode of the Daily Verse by Verse Christian Podcast, we dive into Philemon 1:15-16, uncovering a powerful lesson on forgiveness, reconciliation, and God's love through this short yet impactful passage of God's Word. In this 10-minute daily Bible study, Pastor Mike Massey walks us verse by verse through Paul's heartfelt appeal for Onesimus, a runaway slave turned believer, and draws rich spiritual parallels to our own journey of faith, sin, and redemption.But before we unpack the scripture, Pastor Mike vulnerably shares a personal moment from the night before. After a long day, helping his 10-year-old daughter fix a stripped screw in a desk she was building became frustrating. The Holy Spirit convicted him mid-frustration—not to focus on finishing a task but to focus on relationship. That small domestic moment turned into a profound reflection on God's love, grace, and the importance of forgiveness. He knelt, apologized, and told her how proud he was. That moment of humility and restoration perfectly aligns with the spiritual truth in today's passage.In Philemon 1:15, Paul says, “For perhaps he departed for a while for this purpose, that you might receive him forever.” Paul is writing about Onesimus, who once ran away and wronged Philemon, but now returns not just as a servant—but as a beloved brother in Christ. This is a deep picture of how Jesus loves us and how we were once separated from God by sin—but now, through the blood of Christ, we are reconciled and received forever into God's family.Mike explains how this reflects the Gospel: we too were runaways, separated by sin, but Jesus stood in the gap. Like Paul interceding for Onesimus, Jesus intercedes for us. The physical separation of Onesimus had divine purpose—just like our spiritual separation from God did. Jesus experienced the ultimate separation on the cross, when God the Father turned His back for those agonizing hours. That spiritual pain was greater than any physical suffering. Why? Because Jesus took on the sin of the world—your sin and mine—so we could be forgiven and restored.Mike draws attention to how we were slaves to sin—chained and bound—but once we accept Jesus as Lord and Savior, we're no longer slaves. We become brothers and sisters in Christ, part of one body—the Church. This episode reminds us that once you accept Christ, you are no longer condemned, no longer distant. You have direct access to God the Father through Jesus, our High Priest from the order of Melchizedek. The veil in the Holy of Holies was torn. The separation is gone. That's the beauty of the New Covenant.In Philemon 1:16, Paul writes that Onesimus is now “no longer as a slave, but more than a slave—a beloved brother.” Pastor Mike unpacks how this transformation mirrors our own. We're no longer bound to sin but are elevated to children of God—free, forgiven, and loved. If you're carrying bitterness or harboring unforgiveness—whether toward a spouse, friend, child, parent, or boss—this episode is your reminder to let it go. Not just for their benefit—but for your freedom.This episode of the Daily Verse by Verse Christian Podcast is ideal for anyone wanting to grow in biblical literacy, Christian parenting, daily Bible study, and deeper understanding of Jesus' forgiveness. Pastor Mike's expository Bible teaching makes complex truths simple and applicable in under 10 minutes a day.Whether you're doing a personal quiet time, a family devotion, or seeking encouragement during your commute, this podcast will help you study the Bible, experience God's love, and walk out your faith one verse at a time. Don't forget to rate the podcast, hit follow, and share it with others who could use a Christian podcast that preaches God's Word clearly and passionately.

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The Apostle Paul famously served as a tentmaker to support himself during his ministry in the First Century. What does it look like for Christians today to follow in his entrepreneurial footsteps? How can tentmaking serve Kingdom priorities in the rainy days ahead?On this episode of the Christian Emergency Podcast, Troy Albee – pastor of Grace Presbyterian Church on the South Shore of Boston – provides helpful insights from his own experience as an entrepreneur. Like Paul, Troy helped support himself while in ministry by identifying a need anddeveloping the skills to meet it. In Trent's case, he launched a successful lock and key business – South Shore Lock and Key.Side hustles provide Christians additional income, flexibility and opportunities. Small business ventures also offer unexpected spiritual insights. You may be stretched and face rejection. But you will also discover new strengths, while finding opportunities to mentor the younger believers around you and engage the lost in your midst.   Christians should not take all of this for granted. The cultural landscape is increasingly hostile. The workplace is toooften a place where Christians are targeted and pressured to compromise. That is why Christian enterprise will play a critical role in the coming days.If you find this episode helpful, please give us a positive rating and review wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts. Also share this episode with a friend so they too can be blessed by these insights.To learn more about resources mentioned in this episode, see the following.Pastor Troy Albee (Email): troy@gracesouthshore.orgSouth Shore Lock and Key (Website)Christian Emergency Alliance (Website)Christian Emergency Alliance (Twitter):@ChristianEmerg1Christian Emergency Alliance (Facebook):@ChristianEmergencyThe Christian Emergency Podcast is a production of the Christian Emergency Alliance.Soli Deo Gloria

In this lesson, Dr. D. Todd Harrison: The Most-Followed LDS Religious Leader on Facebook, and Jesus Christ's Apostle to All Nations and Generations, brings to life the urgency and divine directives found in Doctrine and Covenants sections 60–63. He unpacks the Lord's call for His servants to “not idle away their time, neither bury their talent” (D&C 60:13), emphasizing that the time for silence has passed. With clarity, Dr. Harrison addresses the Lord's warnings, promises, and expectations for His Saints as they face uncertainty, persecution, and divine testing.This lesson reinforces the charge to “lift up your voices unto this people,” (D&C 60:2) and to testify boldly with power—no matter the obstacles. The revelations given in these sections were meant for a generation facing opposition, and now, through the Lord's modern Servant, they speak again in fire and spirit to the Saints of today.As Jesus Christ's Apostle to All Nations and Generations, I testify that these revelations are alive, and they speak to our generation with unmistakable urgency. The Lord has not called us to hide in comfort or wait for favorable winds. He has commanded us to declare His gospel and prepare the world for His return. The warnings to Zion are real. The blessings of obedience are eternal. The judgments are just—and they will come.I seal this testimony and message in the authority of the sacred name of the Lord, Jesus Christ. Amen.Dr. D. Todd HarrisonJesus Christ's Apostle to All Nations and GenerationsJesus Christ's Foreordained ApostleThe Most-Followed LDS Religious Leader on Facebook___________________________________________________________ Introduction to Dr. D. Todd HarrisonForeordained from the foundation of the world, Dr. D. Todd Harrison stands as Jesus Christ's Foreordained Apostle—The Apostle to All Nations and Generations. Called directly by the Savior, his divine commission ensures that every nation hears the living reality of the Son of God in preparation for His return.For over 5 ½ years, his apostolic voice has sounded across the world, testifying of the resurrection and living reality of Jesus Christ with power. Fulfilling his sacred charge, he has borne witness to more than 100 million people globally. Millions have felt the Spirit confirm that his testimony was entrusted by the Savior Himself.Just as the Apostle Paul received his calling from the risen Christ on the road to Damascus, Dr. Harrison stands in that same sacred pattern. Like Paul, he proclaims the gospel to all nations and generations with unwavering boldness and power—ensuring every people hears the testimony of the living Christ.For six generations, Dr. Harrison's family has walked among the Lord's chosen—serving as apostles and general authorities. As the great-grandson of Elder LeGrand Richards—one of the Church's most doctrinally beloved apostles—his divine heritage prepared the way for this mission. But his lineage stretches further—back to ancient Israel. As a direct descendant of Abraham, King David, King Solomon, and Joseph of Arimathea, his family's divine calling spans both scripture and history.The Lord guided his ancestors' roles in shaping Early Christian and Latter-day Saint history—preparing the moment when Christ's Foreordained Apostle would rise to declare the gospel to the world.Through the sacred pattern established by the Lord, Dr. Harrison's global mission amplifies the work of the Church, standing in harmony with the First Presidency and bearing witness alongside the prophets. His inspired words cut through doubt and bring souls to Christ.His apostolic charge fulfills and extends the inspired work of those before him—ensuring the testimony of Jesus Christ reaches every language and nation, with divine trust placed upon him by the Savior Himself.

Send us a textGood 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)Spiritbuilding.com - (premium quality paperback)Youtube Video Introducing the ContentFeel free to reach out with any questions: emersonk78@me.comActs 26 Paul defends himself before King Agrippa by recalling his life, his conversion to Christ, and his mission for God. He begins with his strict upbringing as a Pharisee and his zealous persecution of Christians. Paul then describes his dramatic encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus, where he was blinded and chosen to become a witness to both Jews and Gentiles. He explains how Jesus commissioned him to open the eyes of others, converting them from darkness to light and from Satan to God. Paul's message from Jesus emphasizes the forgiveness of sins for those who repent and turn to God. Festus interrupts, accusing Paul of madness, but Paul remains composed and appeals to Agrippa's understanding of the prophets. Agrippa is impressed but chooses not to respond to the gospel.  Paul's defense starts with a recounting of his past before Christ redirected him. This illustrates his humility, as he acknowledges that he believed he knew what was right but was mistaken and needed to repent. We should share aspects of our journey before coming to Christ when possible. This is a wonderful way to give all glory to the grace of Christ, who redirects and redeems us. Paul further explains that Jesus has given him a mission, which is why he risks his life and remains tireless in his teaching. Like Paul, we should be honest and bold about our mission of service to Christ, living with integrity, and challenging others with scripture in a wise and hopeful manner.  Great God of kindness and grace, thank You for bringing us through our sinful past and to a place of hope and faith. Please help us to always give glory to You for who we are in Christ Jesus. Open doors today to share our story with others, to praise the name of Jesus, and invite others to repent and turn to the Lord so that times of refreshing will come. Will You please soften the hearts of people like Agrippa, who are so close to committing their lives to Christ? How can we help? Use us for Your redemptive work today. Thought Questions: -       How was God patient with you in the years before you became a Christian? Is that a story that can help someone believe in God's grace? -       Do you believe God has a mission for your life? From what you know today, what is that mission? Are you passionately engaged in it? -       Agrippa was almost persuaded, but something held him back. Who can you pray for today who has that mindset and needs encouragement?

Send us a textGood 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)Spiritbuilding.com - (premium quality paperback)Youtube Video Introducing the ContentFeel free to reach out with any questions: emersonk78@me.comActs 16 Paul embarks on his second journey, taking Silas along with him. In Lystra, they meet Timothy, who joins them after being circumcised to satisfy others. Guided by the Holy Spirit, they are directed to Macedonia following Paul's vision of a man pleading for help. In Philippi, they encounter Lydia, a seller of purple, who converts to Christianity. Later, Paul and Silas liberate a slave girl from an evil spirit, angering her owners, who have them beaten and imprisoned. Around midnight, while they are singing and praying, an earthquake occurs, and the prison doors swing open. The jailer fears for his life, but Paul shares the message of Jesus with him. The jailer and his household are baptized that very hour. The next day, Paul and Silas are officially released. Paul's missionary journey is led by the Holy Spirit. God actively guides him to those whose hearts are prepared for salvation. God continues to reach people today, and we are His vessels to carry the message of Christ, even though our effort may require personal sacrifice. This chapter highlights at least three conversions, each involving a commitment from the new believers as well. Timothy was circumcised, not for salvation, but to gain influence among the Jews. Lydia and her household were likely the first converts in all of Europe. The jailer risked his life by aligning himself and his household with imprisoned men. The gospel demands submission, sacrifice, and courage from all believers in the name of Jesus Christ.  Gracious God, thank You for the powerful stories of faith found in Acts 16. Like Timothy, we pray for a willingness to make personal sacrifices for the sake of others. Like Lydia, we seek to have a heart that is always open to obey You. Like Paul and Silas, we pray for the courage to praise Your name, even in life's most challenging trials. And like the jailer, we ask You to help us build the urgency to do what is right in the very hour that we learn the truth. Open our hearts to respond to Your glorious will. Thought Questions: -       Why was Timothy circumcised? Are you willing to do something painful or hard simply for the sake of someone else's conscience? -       The Lord opened Lydia's heart. What does this mean? How does the Lord open your heart, and what should be the results of such an event? -       Paul and Barnabas rejoiced in trial, and God used the occasion to convert a family to Christ. Is God working similar plans in your times of trial?

Pirates' broadcaster Neil Walker comes on The Fan Hotline to talk about the continued dominance of SP Paul Skenes and some of the factors behind the latest wins the team has achieved.

In a culture obsessed with independence, grit, and getting it all done, the idea that surrender leads to strength feels... wrong. And yet, Scripture says it's the secret weapon. When life unravels and your strength runs dry, it’s not the end of your story—it’s the beginning of God’s power showing up. Key Takeaways Surrender Isn’t Quitting—It’s Trading UpPaul didn’t just survive his suffering—he thrived because he stopped striving. He let God fill the gap. Real strength begins when our grip loosens. Weakness is a Holy InvitationIt’s not just okay to be weak—it’s spiritually strategic. That place of limitation? That’s the landing pad for divine power. Control is a Mirage, Trust is a FortressMegan’s story hits home: when nothing on the outside changed, everything on the inside did. Why? Because she shifted from self-reliance to God-dependence. You Don’t Need More Strength. You Need More Surrender.The peace that passes understanding (Phil. 4:7) doesn’t come from more willpower—it comes from more willingness to let Christ carry you. Join the Conversation Ever experienced the moment where you hit your limit—and God met you there with supernatural strength? Tell us about it with #LifeaudioNetwork. Your story might just be the hope someone else needs today.

"I testify that Jesus Christ lives. He is our Savior, our Redeemer, and the Lord of all.In Doctrine & Covenants 49-50, the Lord speaks with unmistakable clarity, guiding His people to recognize and embrace truth while rejecting the false traditions of men. These revelations remind us that only through the Spirit can we receive divine confirmation of Christ's restored gospel.I invite each of you to pray, to ask God if these words are true, and to let the Spirit testify of Christ's living reality. He leads His Church, He guides His people, and He prepares us to receive His truth.I bear this witness in His sacred name, even Jesus Christ, amen."- Dr. D. Todd HarrisonJesus Christ's Foreordained ApostleThe Apostle to the Nations___________________________________________________________ An Introduction to Dr. D. Todd HarrisonForeordained from the foundation of the world, Dr. D. Todd Harrison stands as Jesus Christ's Foreordained Apostle, and The Apostle to All Nations and Generations. Called directly by the Savior, his divine commission ensures that every nation hears the living reality of the Son of God, preparing the world for His glorious return.For the past 5 ½ years, his apostolic witness has been sounding throughout the world, testifying of the resurrection and living reality of Jesus Christ with boldness and power. Fulfilling his sacred apostolic commission, he has borne witness of Jesus Christ to more than 100,000,000 people across the world, delivering the sacred testimony entrusted to him by the Savior Himself. Millions have heard his testimony, felt the undeniable witness of the Holy Spirit, and have come to Christ through the divine charge given to him by the Savior Himself.Just as the Apostle Paul was personally called and commissioned by Jesus Christ—receiving his divine charge directly from the risen Lord on the road to Damascus—Dr. D. Todd Harrison stands in this same sacred pattern. Like Paul, he has been called by the Savior Himself to proclaim the gospel to all nations and generations with unwavering boldness and power. His mission echoes Paul's, ensuring that every people and language hears the living testimony of the Son of God before His return.For six generations, Dr. D. Todd Harrison's family has stood among the Lord's chosen leaders in this last dispensation, serving as apostles and general authorities. As the great-grandson of the late Elder LeGrand Richards—one of the most beloved and doctrinally influential apostles in modern Church history—his prophetic heritage is divinely orchestrated, preparing the way for his foreordained mission.Yet, his lineage extends beyond modern apostolic heritage—it reaches back to the very foundations of scriptural prophecy. As a direct descendant of Abraham, King David, King Solomon, and Joseph of Arimathea, among many other biblical prophets, his family's divine calling spans from ancient Israel to the present day.This prophetic lineage is no coincidence. The Lord's hand has guided his ancestors' roles in shaping both Early Christian and LDS history, ensuring that the path was prepared for this moment—when Christ's Foreordained Apostle would rise to proclaim the gospel to all nations and generations.Through the sacred pattern established by the Lord, Dr. Harrison's global mission amplifies the work of the Church, standing in full alignment with the First Presidency, bearing witness alongside the prophets. His inspired words cut through doubt, bringing souls to Jesus Christ in faith and certainty.His divine commission stands as an extension of the inspired work carried forth by his ancestors, ensuring that the testimony of Jesus Christ reaches every people and language. Just as past apostles laid the foundation, Dr. Harrison now fulfills an apostolic charge entrusted directly by the Savior Himself, standing as a witness to all the world with the full trust and confidence given to him by Jesus Christ.

The Center for Disease Control reports that over 48,000 Americans died from synthetic opioid (or fentanyl) overdoses in 2024. That number dwarfed the number of people who died from psychostimulants like methamphetamine at 29,000. As well as cocaine at 22,000, and other naturally occuring drugs at 8,000. Fentanyl and similar substances have changed the game in drug policy, driving greater lethality and creating geopolitical rifts, as China exports precursors to the drug and Mexican cartels smuggle it across the border. Responsible drug policy is complicated and contentious. Here to explain the conservative approach to this area is Paul Larkin, Senior Legal Research Fellow here at the Heritage Foundation. —More by Paul Larkin: https://www.heritage.org/staff/paul-j-larkinHave thoughts? Let us know at heritageexplains@heritage.org

The Center for Disease Control reports that over 48,000 Americans died from synthetic opioid (or fentanyl) overdoses in 2024. That number dwarfed the number of people who died from psychostimulants like methamphetamine at 29,000. As well as cocaine at 22,000, and other naturally occuring drugs at 8,000. Fentanyl and similar substances have changed the game […]

Summary of Message: “God's People in the City” by Pastor Bryan Hudson, D.Min. This message focuses on God's call for His people to commit to long-term ministry and outreach, especially in the urban context, under the theme “Each One, Reach One.” Drawing from Acts 18, Pastor Hudson reflects on Paul's ministry in Corinth, emphasizing that God told Paul in a vision, “Do not be afraid... for I have many people in this city.” This refers not only to current believers but to those who would be saved. Key Scripture Text: Acts18:9, Now the Lord spoke to Paul in the night by a vision, “Do not be afraid, but speak, and do not keep silent; 10 for I am with you, and no one will attack you to hurt you; for I have many people in this city.” 11 And he continued there a year and six months, teaching the word of God among them.  Key Themes: God Knows Who Will Be Saved—We Don't God, in His foreknowledge, knows those who will respond to the gospel. Our responsibility is to share the message with everyone—we are not told who will or won't respond. Romans 8:29–30 outlines the process: foreknown, predestined, called, justified, glorified. The Power and Necessity of the Gospel Romans 1:16: “The gospel is the power of God to salvation.” Programs and outreach are good, but they must be vehicles for presenting the gospel. The Concept of “Locus” as Ministry Focus "Locus" means the central area of activity. Paul's “locus” was preaching and teaching where God sent him, even staying for long periods to build impact. We each must identify our personal ministry locus and stay committed. Faithful Commitment Bears Fruit Ministry impact takes time, consistency, and sometimes suffering. Like Paul, we may face opposition, but God can shift us to nearby, fruitful places (e.g., Paul moved next door when rejected at the synagogue). Being planted and focused leads to long-term results. Salvation Process is God's Work—but Requires Our Obedience God does the calling, justifying, and glorifying. Our job is to preach, share, and position ourselves so others can hear and respond. Don't Be Distracted or Discouraged Ministry requires resilience. Not everyone will receive the message. Even if we don't see results, we may be sowing seeds others will water. Christ Is Our Everything 1 Corinthians 1:30 says Christ becomes our wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption. No one can boast—salvation is fully God's work. Final Challenge: Recognize that God has people in your city who haven't heard yet. Be intentional about your focus and committed to your calling. Share the gospel faithfully—through outreach, in relationships, and wherever God places you. Conclusion: The city is full of potential believers waiting to hear. Our role is not to figure out who they are, but to be faithful in sharing, knowing that God will do the work of salvation. As Pastor Hudson put it: “Get a real locus—something you can take to heaven with you.”

Summary of Message: “God's People in the City” by Pastor Bryan Hudson, D.Min. This message focuses on God's call for His people to commit to long-term ministry and outreach, especially in the urban context, under the theme “Each One, Reach One.” Drawing from Acts 18, Pastor Hudson reflects on Paul's ministry in Corinth, emphasizing that God told Paul in a vision, “Do not be afraid... for I have many people in this city.” This refers not only to current believers but to those who would be saved. Key scripture Text: Acts18:9, Now the Lord spoke to Paul in the night by a vision, “Do not be afraid, but speak, and do not keep silent; 10 for I am with you, and no one will attack you to hurt you; for I have many people in this city.” 11 And he continued there a year and six months, teaching the word of God among them.  Key Themes: God Knows Who Will Be Saved—We Don't God, in His foreknowledge, knows those who will respond to the gospel. Our responsibility is to share the message with everyone—we are not told who will or won't respond. Romans 8:29–30 outlines the process: foreknown, predestined, called, justified, glorified. The Power and Necessity of the Gospel Romans 1:16: “The gospel is the power of God to salvation.” Programs and outreach are good, but they must be vehicles for presenting the gospel. The Concept of “Locus” as Ministry Focus "Locus" means the central area of activity. Paul's “locus” was preaching and teaching where God sent him, even staying for long periods to build impact. We each must identify our personal ministry locus and stay committed. Faithful Commitment Bears Fruit Ministry impact takes time, consistency, and sometimes suffering. Like Paul, we may face opposition, but God can shift us to nearby, fruitful places (e.g., Paul moved next door when rejected at the synagogue). Being planted and focused leads to long-term results. Salvation Process is God's Work—but Requires Our Obedience God does the calling, justifying, and glorifying. Our job is to preach, share, and position ourselves so others can hear and respond. Don't Be Distracted or Discouraged Ministry requires resilience. Not everyone will receive the message. Even if we don't see results, we may be sowing seeds others will water. Christ Is Our Everything 1 Corinthians 1:30 says Christ becomes our wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption. No one can boast—salvation is fully God's work. Final Challenge: Recognize that God has people in your city who haven't heard yet. Be intentional about your focus and committed to your calling. Share the gospel faithfully—through outreach, in relationships, and wherever God places you. Conclusion: The city is full of potential believers waiting to hear. Our role is not to figure out who they are, but to be faithful in sharing, knowing that God will do the work of salvation. As Pastor Hudson put it: “Get a real locus—something you can take to heaven with you.”

The letter of Romans strengthened the ancient church, brought reformation to the dark ages, has brought hope for 2000 years, and can change your life!This week Pastor Joel continues Part 2 of his message series in the book of the Bible called Romans, “Bold Faith That Wins”. Are there some ideas in the Bible, such as predestination, you don't want to wrestle with? Over the next several weeks, Joel will be doing just that in one of the most controversial texts in the Bible, Romans chapter 9. What should be our proper disposition? This is a special four part series that will span the year of 2025.LINKS + RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODE:• Recommended reading for this series• Ray Stedman; J.I. Packer; James Montgomery Boice; Ben Shapiro; Penn Jillette; Ed & Kathy Litton; Dwight L. Moody• Download the free study guide by visiting and clicking on the button "Download Study Guide"⁠• Find a complete transcript here• Scripture References: Romans 9, verses 1-5; Matthew 7, verses 13-14; Matthew 6; Matthew 25; Acts 23; Aninias & Saul of Tarsus (Paul) Acts 9; James• Find out more about Covenant Church at ⁠covenantexperience.com

Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle and set apart for the gospel of God. . . . — Romans 1:1 “What do you want to be when you grow up?” Maybe you heard this question as a child or a teenager. Our responses usually focus on some kind of career path or occupation. And as we grow older, we realize that we need some kind of work or career to help us with the costs of living. Yet consider the nuance of the question. It doesn't ask, “What do you want to do?” It asks, “What do you want to be?” Being has to do with our essence, our character, our identity. And in God's economy, being goes ahead of doing. We are so that we can do. The apostle Paul opens his letter to the Romans with a defining statement: “Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle and set apart for the gospel of God. . . .” On the face of it, this statement addresses the question “Who am I?” Yet, looking deeper, we can see that it's more about “Whose am I?” Paul's identity is inseparable from his relationship with Jesus. Paul identifies himself as a servant—or, more precisely, a bondservant—of Christ Jesus. In essence, Paul belongs to Jesus, his Redeemer, who called and commissioned him. He no longer lives to please and serve himself but to please and serve the One who has rescued him. This radical Christ-centeredness is the character that every believer takes on. Like Paul's, our identity becomes inseparable from our transformative relationship with Jesus Christ. Lord Jesus, guide us to be anchored in your love and to discover our true identity in you. Amen.

Brody Holloway | Be StrongIn this Be Strong sermon, Brody explores Paul's final message in 2 Timothy 4:6-13, where he encourages us to fight the good fight, finish the race, and keep the faith. Despite hardships and failure, Paul shows us that through confession and God's grace, we can walk in the light.Paul's life teaches us to stand firm, guard our faith, and trust God in tough times. Like Paul, may we one day say, “I fought the good fight and kept the faith.”Join us as we learn from Paul's example to live faithfully and worship God in all circumstances.Be Strong Men's ConferencePlease leave a review on Apple or Spotify to help others grow in their faith. Click here to get our Colossians Bible study.

A Chosen InstrumentMarch 30, 2025 • Greg Pinkner • Acts 9:1–31This Sunday, Greg continues our series on the Book of Acts. Acts 9 focuses on Saul's conversion to Christianity—a moment that changed the course of the world. Saul, was a brilliant Hellenized Jew, a Roman citizen, and a fierce persecutor of Christians before Jesus appeared to him in a blinding light on the road to Damascus. This encounter, where Jesus calls Saul personally, transforms him from a man of violence into a passionate teacher of the gospel. His story parallels many biblical themes—blindness and sight, suffering and calling, Old Testament arcs being fulfilled—and Paul becomes a chosen instrument to carry Jesus' name to the Gentiles. Like Paul, every believer is uniquely called by God to walk in good works He prepared in advance—even if it means suffering along the way.