Podcasts about Living God

In The Glory Due His Name, Megan J. Conner reminds us that in a world obsessed with the artificial, it’s easy to lose sight of the majesty of God’s creation. Drawing from Psalm 29:2–4, this devotional calls believers to lift their eyes from the screens and distractions of daily life and return to authentic worship—to “ascribe to the LORD the glory due His name.” Highlights In a world filled with man-made distractions, we often overlook God’s true glory in creation. Like the Israelites in the wilderness, we easily forget God’s faithfulness and miracles when we focus on worldly comforts. God’s handiwork is all around us—every breath, seed, and heartbeat declares His majesty. Worship is not just a Sunday activity; it’s a daily act of remembrance and gratitude for God’s provision and redemption. We are called to lift our gaze, turn from distractions, and proclaim His greatness to the world. Join the Conversation How do you intentionally worship God in your daily life? Share your reflections and inspire others to glorify Him amid life’s noise. Tag @LifeAudioNetwork and use #AscribeGlory #WorthyIsTheLord #FaithInAction to join the conversation.

Romans 8:14 — Does the Christian ever long for Heaven? How often do they think of glorification? Christians often discuss sanctification and do not realize that it is only a part of the process for the end goal of glorification. Glorification can be understood because of the assurance in Christ Jesus. In this sermon on Romans 8:14 titled “Sons of the Living God,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones says the theme of Romans 8 is not sanctification, but rather the assurance of a Christian's salvation. It is the absolute security of the final perseverance of all who have been justified by Jesus Christ. As Paul works through this chapter to Romans, he has been outlining several reasons for this assurance. In Romans 8:14, he come to the assurance in terms of sonship with God, which Dr. Lloyd-Jones argues is also the theme of the whole of Scripture. Because glorification is the final goal for all Christians, God would never allow something to prohibit His people from getting there. Dr. Lloyd-Jones discusses four points: not all are children of God, Christians are children of God, what this sonship means, and the consequences of this sonship. He leaves the listener with an encouraging message: because Christians are sons and daughters of God, they can look out into this world and never experience despair or panic because they belong to the family of God.

Peter Leithart, James Bejon, Alastair Roberts, and Jeff Meyers discuss Hebrews 10:27-33) Check out the Audio Deacon Podcast www.audio-deacon.com/ GIVE TO THEOPOLIS! theopolisinstitute.com/give/ Get the Theopolis App! app.theopolisinstitute.com/menu Use Code "theopolitan" to get your first month free! Sign up for In Medias Res mailchi.mp/0b01d726f2fe/inmediasres

Romans 8:14 — Does the Christian ever long for Heaven? How often do they think of glorification? Christians often discuss sanctification and do not realize that it is only a part of the process for the end goal of glorification. Glorification can be understood because of the assurance in Christ Jesus. In this sermon on Romans 8:14 titled “Sons of the Living God,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones says the theme of Romans 8 is not sanctification, but rather the assurance of a Christian's salvation. It is the absolute security of the final perseverance of all who have been justified by Jesus Christ. As Paul works through this chapter to Romans, he has been outlining several reasons for this assurance. In Romans 8:14, he come to the assurance in terms of sonship with God, which Dr. Lloyd-Jones argues is also the theme of the whole of Scripture. Because glorification is the final goal for all Christians, God would never allow something to prohibit His people from getting there. Dr. Lloyd-Jones discusses four points: not all are children of God, Christians are children of God, what this sonship means, and the consequences of this sonship. He leaves the listener with an encouraging message: because Christians are sons and daughters of God, they can look out into this world and never experience despair or panic because they belong to the family of God. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/603/29

Daily Dose of Hope October 16, 2025   Scripture – John 7:25-53   Prayer:   Holy God, Help us sit and reflect on your presence. Jesus, we need you.  We go through our days distracted, sometimes even forgetting to pray or acknowledge you.  Help us to be aware of your presence, knowing that you walk with us every step of the way, guiding us and leading us in all our words, actions, and decisions.  We belong to you, Lord. Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope Church daily Bible reading plan.  We are currently doing a deep dive into the Gospels and Acts.  Today, we are finishing up John 7.   Today's reading is challenging.  We are still in Jerusalem at the Festival of the Tabernacles.  If you remember from yesterday's reading, Jesus has come to the festival later, trying to be discreet, but after a few days, he does begin to preach and teach.  The comments are flying.   I want to draw our attention to several verses that might be easy to skip over.  Verses 37-39 read, On the last and greatest day of the festival, Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, “Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink. 38 Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.”[c] 39 By this he meant the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were later to receive. Up to that time the Spirit had not been given, since Jesus had not yet been glorified.   Let's talk context.  According to the Mishnah, part of the oral tradition of Jewish law, water ceremonies are an important part of the festival celebrations on the last day.  A priest would draw water from the pool of Siloam, with a special golden pitcher and then take it back to the temple to pour into a silver bowl next the altar.  As the water was poured out, the priest would pray to God to send rain.  In some traditions, the water-drawing at the Festival of Tabernacles was interpreted as the drawing of the Holy Spirit.  So please know this was a really powerful moment.   It is hugely significant that Jesus, on this same day, says that whoever is thirsty should come to him and drink.  He continues that anyone who believes in him will have rivers of living water flowing within them.  Basically, and make sure you get this, Jesus is saying that those who drink of the water he gives will become sources of this living water.  It is similar to what he told the Samaritan woman in chapter 4 when Jesus tells her that those who drink of the water he gives will never be thirsty because he offers water that leads to eternal life.   In chapter 6, if you recall, Jesus called himself the bread of life.  Now, he offers living water that leads to quenches the deepest spiritual thirst.    What's kind of fascinating to me here is John's comment about the Spirit. He makes this connection between water and the Spirit.  John makes other connections between water and the Spirit (remember his discussion with Nicodemus in which he spoke of being born of water and the Spirit.). John says in this passage that up until this time the Spirit had not come because Jesus hadn't been glorified.  But John makes this strong suggestion that the living water Jesus is referring to is the Holy Spirit which is to come.  Believers will soon have the Holy Spirit in their physical body and that will fulfill all spiritual thirst.    Think about that.  If you have said yes to Jesus, then that means that the Spirit of the Living God is in you.  The same Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead is in you.  That means the Spirit that fulfills all spiritual thirst is in you.  How does that sit with you?  Do you see how huge that is?   One small but important note.  Just because the Spirit had not yet come did not mean the Spirit did not yet exist.  We know that the Holy Spirit was with God in the beginning.  As the third person of the Trinity, the Spirit was present at creation, we see his presence throughout the Old Testament, and we see him descend like a dove on Jesus during his baptism.  But he would not be offered to the church until after Jesus was glorified and ascended into heaven.  Of course, it was on Pentecost, Acts 2, in which the Spirit comes, making an incredible scene, and indwells the believers.    As the chapter progresses, we see the Jews are debating amongst themselves.  We can sense the conflict rising between those who reject Jesus and those who believe he is Messiah.  The true conflict boils down to who is the most accurate in their scriptural interpretation.  We see this back and forth debate.  John, as author of this Gospel, is basically joining the debate, defending Jesus and making it clear that he is Messiah.    But the Jewish leaders are frustrated.  They want him arrested.  They want him out of their way.  They feel incredibly threatened by Jesus' claims and they want to shut him down.   More tomorrow.   Blessings, Pastor Vicki    

Sermon, 10/12/2025: Freedom To Worship The Living God

It may not be written in the Bible the specific action you need to take to avoid catastrophe but the voice of God will tell you!To watch the video of this message, you can watch us on Victory Channel (Dish 265 or DirecTV 366), on Faith Broadcasting Network (DirecTV channel 379) and you can always watch our broadcasts on demand on our website or our  YouTube Channel!For more information regarding Weeter Ministries, to send prayer requests, praise reports or to become a Covenant Partner with us to get this uncompromised Word of the Living God out to the world, please visit our website: WeeterMinistries.orgSupport the show

——Your Daily Portion Sabbath School Lesson with LD “The Anomaly” Harris (L. David Harris)——Get the YDP Life Application Guide for the OCT., NOV., & DEC. 2025's Lesson titled, “Lessons of Faith From Joshua.” https://amzn.to/4mXLEyzBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/your-daily-portion-with-l-david-harris--2912188/support.

Join us as guest speaker Grady D. King shares his powerful testimony of God's grace after enduring a total health collapse, coding three times, and spending over five months in the hospital. Learn why the Bible's Psalm 23 became a new "life song" for him while walking through the valley of the shadow of death and how he realized, like Jacob, that "The Lord was in this place and I didn't even know it" during his darkest hours. This message challenges us to embrace our identity as missionaries in our own culture. King offers crucial, non-antagonistic advice, inspired by 1 Peter, on how to share your faith story, live Christ's example, and continue to do good by focusing on blessing others rather than stress.

Andrew Murch I 1 Timothy 3:14-16 I People of the Living God

Here, in week 6 of our series we move to 1 Timothy 6:11-16 to see that The Church of the Living God is A Fighting Church. Remember when the house phone would ring as a kid, and you'd hear the best words ever, “the phone's for you!” Someone called YOU. Paul is making a call, a three-way call to the believer, and wewant to ensure everyone hears the call!Website:www.experienceredemption.comFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/experienceredemptionInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/experienceredemption

A Dedicated LifeSenior Pastor Lincoln NelsonGenesis 5:18-24October 12, 2025Today, we continue our current sermon series, 'Yahweh Perspectives'.Listen to Senior Pastor Lincoln Nelson speak about having a dedicated life to the Lord.#churchofphila #churchofphiladelphia #buildinglivesthroughlove #loveinaction #2025sermon #onlinechurchTo support this ministry and help us continue to build God's kingdom click here: http://www.churchofphila.comIf you've just made a decision for Christ, please respond HERE: http://www.churchofphila.comOur vision is to provide a place where people of all colors, creeds, and nationalities can come together and worship the Living Savior who is Jesus Christ, the Son of the Living God.Connect with Us Website: http://www.churchofphila.comTwitter & Instagram: Charlotte, NC: @churchofphilacha Asbury Park, NJ: @churchofphilaap Lakeland, Florida: @churchofphilalkldFacebook: Charlotte, NC: www.facebook.com/churchofphila Asbury Park, NJ: www.facebook.com/churchofphilaap Lakeland, Florida: www.facebook.com/churchofphilalkld

This week, we are going to talk about a powerful truth that's foundational to our identity as “A people following Christ IN”. We are called to be a temple. Not just any temple…the temple of the Living God.  And this is our call not only individually, but for our faith family here at PFC corporately, as well as the entire Body of Christ. 

The Gospel of John Week 15 Scripture: John 10:34-11:53, Psalm 82. John wrote his Gospel to make us understand that Jesus is just who He says He is. Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God and this Gospel of John. When we read it with open eyes and ears and minds, we see and understand who Jesus is. As our text opens today, we see the religious leaders again trying to trap Jesus and seize Him. Killing Him is their goal.  We read again that He escapes, but not because He is afraid, but because the time has not yet come. When the time does come, Jesus will be absolutely fearless.  We will see this developing as we move into chapter 11. As we enter chapter 11, Pastor shares some of the more recent archaeological discoveries in the area of the Jordan River Valley. Pastor shares the possible discovery of the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah and the interesting information we learn from this discovery. As we begin chapter 11 we hear that Lazarus, who lives  in Bethany is sick. Jesus is about 20 miles from Bethany and is across the Jordan River on the opposite side. Lazarus has two sisters, Mary and Martha. Pastor does some speculating about Mary. He shares that both early and late in Jesus' ministry a woman anoints His feet and wipes them with her hair. In the first anointing Jesus tells the woman her sins are forgiven. Pastor poses the possibility that both anointing were done by Mary, Lazarus' sister, and he goes further with the possibility that Mary of Bethany (Lazarus' sister) may also be Mary Magdalene (the one from whom Jesus cast out seven demons.) Back to our story… Jesus is about 20 miles away when He receives word of Lazarus' sickness from a messenger sent by Mary and Martha. When Jesus hears Lazarus is sick He says that the sickness is not going to end in death, but in the glory of God. Jesus does not head to Bethany yet. By the time Jesus does finally head to Bethany Lazarus is dead and when He arrives Lazarus has already been in the tomb four days. Martha greets Jesus as He arrives. Jesus says to Martha that He is the Resurrection and the Life and that the one who believes in Him will live even though they die and that whoever lives by believing in Him will never die. Then He asks Martha, “Do you believer this?” And she replies with a statement of faith that He is the Messiah and the Son of God. Then Jesus asks Martha to send Mary to Him. Mary comes and falls at Jesus feet saying that had He been there her brother would not have died.  Reminder: Jesus had said to the messenger that had come to tell Him of Lazarus' sickness, that Lazarus' illness would not end in death, but it did…… and Mary weeps.  Jesus asks where Lazarus has been laid and He weeps too.  Jesus understands our sorrows. Then Jesus asks them to open the tomb and though reluctant as the body has been dead four days, they move the stone. Pastor talks about the process of a Jewish burial in the days of Jesus and also shares pictures and information on ossuaries that have been discovered. Back to our story….  Jesus says for them to roll the stone away, and adds, “Didn't I tell you that if you believe you will see the glory of God?” The stone is rolled away - Jesus prays to the Father - then He says, “Lazarus, come out!” And Lazarus comes out of the tomb alive and covered in the linen burial wrappings. The wrappings are removed and many believed in Jesus after seeing this - others went to the religious leaders and told them what Jesus had just done. Now their desire to get rid of Jesus rises even more. Caiaphas then says, “isn't it better for one man to die for the people, than that the whole nation perish” and Caiaphas unknowingly speaks a prophetic word. And from that day on the religious leaders plotted to kill Jesus. We begin to see Jesus set His own execution into motion. This is not something that happens by accident, it is the Father's will and it is something Jesus runs toward. He willingly sets Himself in this position the leads to His death and ends with His resurrection! In today's study we see there is a great difference between religion and a relationship with the Living God. Our website – https://www.awakeusnow.com Watch the video from our website! https://www.awakeusnow.com/2-year-study-of-the-gospels-upper Watch the video from our YouTube Channel!! https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLTaaqrC3dMOzMkhPyiNWwlJRpV6Bwpu01     ⁃    The Gospel of John study is part five of five of our Two Year Study of the Gospels.      ⁃    The Gospel of John may be one of the most powerful books ever written. Many people have come to faith after reading only this book of the Bible.  Scholarly and archeological discoveries in recent decades give us new insight on details in the Gospel of John. We can now understand it as the most Jewish rather than the most “Gentile/Greek” of the Gospels, and when we do that we see many things that we missed before. Our 2 year study of the gospels is great for large group, small group or home group study and can be started at any time!

Pastor BoldinMatthew 19Worship through the Ministry of Teaching the Word!Need Prayer or Want to Give your Life to Christ?email: prayer.request@strivinghome.org.We will pray with you or for you!Get Involved: www.strivinghome.org

It is possible to live your whole life, young to old, by faith. In order to do it, you need to learn the voice of God and not just the written Word.To watch the video of this message, you can watch us on Victory Channel (Dish 265 or DirecTV 366), on Faith Broadcasting Network (DirecTV channel 379) and you can always watch our broadcasts on demand on our website or our  YouTube Channel!For more information regarding Weeter Ministries, to send prayer requests, praise reports or to become a Covenant Partner with us to get this uncompromised Word of the Living God out to the world, please visit our website: WeeterMinistries.orgSupport the show

The True and Living God by Teresa Bowen

Daily Dose of Hope October 6, 2025   Scripture - John 3:1-21   Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are King of Kings and Lord of Lords.  We are so amazingly grateful for your grace and love.  Forgive us for the many times when we fall short, when we betray you, when we fail to be loving or faithful.  We want to grow stronger, Lord, but we can only do so through your power.  Lord, help us hear your voice.  In the next few moments of silence, Lord, hear our prayers... In Jesus' Name, Amen.   Welcome to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the daily Bible reading plan at New Hope Church in Brandon, Florida.  Currently, we are doing a deep dive into the Gospels and Acts.  Today, we begin a deep dive into John 3.   In today's text, we meet Nicodemus, who is a Pharisee and a member of the Jewish ruling council.  He is someone who is well-trained in Jewish law and tradition and held in high esteem in his community.  And he comes to see Jesus at night.  To me, it's interesting that the Scripture points this out.  Obviously, Nicodemus is intrigued by Jesus.  He has seen the miracles.  He has listened to Jesus' teaching.  He knows that Jesus knows God in some way, Nicodemus acknowledges that, but he is probably a bit leary of being connected with Jesus.  After all, what will the others think?   So we don't know if there is some pleasant chit chat between Jesus and Nicodemus, there may have been, but in the Scripture it seems that Jesus wastes no time --- he gets right to the point.  He says to Nicodemus, “no one can enter the Kingdom of God unless they are born again.”  Then, there is that interesting back and forth dialogue in which Nicodemus says, “well, how in the world can someone enter into their mother's womb a second time?”  And Jesus doesn't even respond to that, he says it again “Dude, you can't get into the Kingdom of God without being born of water and the Spirit.  You must be born again!”   Now, Nicodemus would have probably thought that salvation was his because he was born a Jew.  He was one of the “chosen people.”  Or, he would have thought salvation was his because he knew a whole lot about the law, he had accumulated a lot of information about God, and he was trying hard to apply it.   And Jesus is pushing back against that.  He says you must be born again, Nicodemus.  Yes, Nicodemus, you were born a Jew in your first birth but that isn't enough for you to be saved, to enter God's Kingdom.  Yes, Nicodemus, you have lots of information about God, you may even be a really good person, you may attend synagogue, but that isn't enough either.  Jesus is saying to Nicodemus, you have to be spiritually reborn. Jesus knew that Nicodemus needed a change of his heart—a spiritual transformation that could only come from above.   The phrase “born again” can be translated “born from above.”    What Jesus was saying to Nicodemus:  Just as your mother gave physical birth to you, if you want to receive salvation and have eternal life, you need the Holy Spirit to give you a spiritual birth. Jesus says, flesh gives birth to flesh but only the Spirit can give birth to spirit.  This rebirth is when we go from being spiritually dead to spiritually alive in Jesus Christ.  And there is a certain mystery to it.  Just as the wind exists in the earthly, physical realm but there is mystery to where it is going and coming from; so there is the same mystery with the Holy Spirit and how he moves and works.  How can this be?  That was the question Nicodemus asked.  Yeah, how can this be?   Let's unpack this a bit more.  When we were born the first time, we were born inclined to sin, inclined to make bad choices.  Think about a toddler.  Why do we have to put safety plugs in all our electrical outlets?  Because no matter how many times we say no, our little ones defy us and they go straight for that outlet.  Because they don't know what's best for them.  Our natural inclination is to do what we want to do.   From the time of the fall in Genesis to right now, this very second, we as human beings are sinful, broken people.  Look at our world.  We miss the mark of God's full intention for our lives.  Even when we are generally good people, we are far from perfect.  We still do things wrong, we hurt people's feelings, we are self-absorbed, we are fearful, we are weak, you get the idea.  Just being a good person is not enough.    This is the thing - our sin, our brokenness, creates a barrier between us and God.  God is holy, totally without sin, and we are a hot mess.  If you are out there right now and you are like, “I'm not a hot mess.”  I will boldly say to you, “Yes, you are.”  We all are.  And we can't jump that barrier between us and God.  Nothing we can do will close that gap.  Nothing.  No striving to be good.  No racking up spiritual merit badges.  Not being born into a Christian family or having a really strong Christian mama.    God made a way for us to be right with him, to eliminate that barrier.  God himself made a way for us to walk closely with him.  You know God's solution to our sin ---- Jesus.  (Today's Scripture includes John 3:16 ---- For God so loved the world, that he…)   Jesus was God with flesh on.  He came voluntarily to demonstrate a different way of doing life AND then he went to the cross.  He died on that Roman cross, serving as the final, ultimate sacrifice for sin.  You see, when Jesus died on the cross, his blood atoned for our sins.  For all of our sins.  So, if we believe in him, turn away from our old way of doing life, then we receive salvation.  We are spiritually reborn.  BORN AGAIN by the Spirit.  Jesus did the work and the Holy Spirit applies the blood.    You see, when we believe in Jesus Christ, God no longer sees our sin and our mess, he only sees the blood of Jesus.  Not only does this ensure that we get to spend eternity with Jesus, we receive new life right now, today.  We become new people, new creations (2 cor. 5:17).  The Holy Spirit, the Spirit of God himself, comes and dwells within us, changing us from the inside out.  Being born again means: 1-       Acknowledging your sin, turning away from your old life and turning toward God (repentance) 2-       Saying yes to Jesus!  3-       Being filled with the Holy Spirit.    Sometimes, we fail to talk about this last piece and it is so, so, so important.  BORN AGAIN by the Spirit.  It's the Spirit that allows us to take that first cry of faith, “Jesus, I need you.  Jesus, you are Lord.”  (2 Cor. 12:3 … no one can say, “Jesus is Lord,” except by the Holy Spirit.). Remember, when we say yes to Jesus, the Spirit of the living God indwells us.  And there is POWER is that!  Jesus sending the Holy Spirit was how he intended to make his presence in this world real and evident.  It's the Holy Spirit that let's us know when we have done something wrong, convicts us of sin.  It's the Holy Spirit that helps us hear the voice of God.  It's the Holy Spirit that makes our faith real and dynamic and alive.  The Holy Spirit gives us boldness to proclaim the Gospel.    You can't have the Spirit of the Living God in you and not be changed.  If someone is a Christian atheist, then I'm thinking they don't have the Holy Spirit in them.  Intellectually consenting to the existence of God, intellectually assenting to the existence of Jesus, being a good person, attending church --- none of those things indicate true salvation, being born again.  And we are kidding ourselves when we think that's going to be enough.  We, as the church, have failed people, by allowing them to skid by a Christian atheists (A Christian atheist is someone who sees themselves as a Christian but it doesn't affect their life in any way.)  Well, at least he is attending church sometimes.  Well, at least he is a good guy.  Y'all that isn't enough.    Going to church does not make someone a Christian. Being a good person does not make someone a Christian. Believing in God does not make someone a Christian.    Believing in Jesus, repenting of your sins, and being filled with the Holy Spirit is what makes someone a Christian.  Period.   Blessings, Pastor Vicki    

In this powerful exploration of Romans 2 and 3, we confront the stark reality of our separation from God and the emptiness of 'dead religion.' The message draws a compelling parallel between our attempts at self-righteousness and the Emperor's New Clothes fable, reminding us that our own efforts to cover our spiritual nakedness are as futile as invisible garments. We're challenged to recognize that knowledge without action, and outward appearances without inward transformation, are meaningless before God. The core lesson is clear: no amount of good deeds, religious observance, or self-improvement can bridge the chasm between us and a holy God. Only through faith in Christ's atoning sacrifice can we be clothed in true righteousness. This message urges us to examine our hearts, abandon empty religious practices, and embrace a living relationship with God through Jesus Christ.

In week five of our series, we turn to 1 Timothy 5:1-16 to see how The Church of the Living God is A Family. Operating as a family is one of the most vital elements of a living church. This week, we focus on two marks of a living church that functions as a family: respect and generosity.Website:www.experienceredemption.comFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/experienceredemptionInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/experienceredemption

Then Faith, or Now FaithSenior Pastor Lincoln NelsonHebrews 11:1-6October 5, 2025Today, we continue our current sermon series, 'Yahweh Perspectives'.Listen to Senior Pastor Lincoln Nelson speak about having faith that is present.#churchofphila #churchofphiladelphia #buildinglivesthroughlove #loveinaction #2025sermon #onlinechurchTo support this ministry and help us continue to build God's kingdom click here: http://www.churchofphila.comIf you've just made a decision for Christ, please respond HERE: http://www.churchofphila.comOur vision is to provide a place where people of all colors, creeds, and nationalities can come together and worship the Living Savior who is Jesus Christ, the Son of the Living God.Connect with Us Website: http://www.churchofphila.comTwitter & Instagram: Charlotte, NC: @churchofphilacha Asbury Park, NJ: @churchofphilaap Lakeland, Florida: @churchofphilalkldFacebook: Charlotte, NC: www.facebook.com/churchofphila Asbury Park, NJ: www.facebook.com/churchofphilaap Lakeland, Florida: www.facebook.com/churchofphilalkld

10/3/25. Five Minutes in the Word scriptures for today: 2 Corinthians 6:16. Temple of the Living God. Resources: biblehub.com; logos.com; ChatGPT; and Life Application Study Bible. Listen daily at 10:00 am CST on https://kingdompraiseradio.com. November 2021 Podchaser list of "60 Best Podcasts to Discover!" LISTEN, LIKE, FOLLOW, SHARE! #MinutesWord; @MinutesWord; #dailybiblestudy #dailydevotional #christianpodcaster #… https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCK9zaXqv64YaCjh88XIJckA/videos https://m.youtube.com/@hhwscott

I meet a lot of people who say, “God? No, no, no religion's not for me. I've made too many mistakes,” or they'll say, “That kind of faith is for people who were raised in church, for religious people.” But the truth is this—God's invitation is for everyone. It's for everyone. Yes, including you. In Luke 15 in the Bible, Jesus talks about a shepherd who leaves ninety-nine sheep to go after the one that's lost. That's how much God values every single person. No one is forgotten; no one too far gone. You don't have to figure everything out. You don't have to find yourself. All you have to do is take one honest step towards Him. You matter and you're seen. God has not counted you out. Don't wait another minute. God's invitation is here, right now. He's pursuing you. Will you say yes to Him and begin this relationship with the Living God today? Always remember, there is hope with God. radio.hopewithgod.com

Ever wish you had a shortcut to knowing God's will? God's will isn't a mysterious blueprint, it's a way of life. Drawing from Colossians 1 and the Ten Commandments, you'll discover how to live with purpose, endurance, and freedom right where you are.

One of the things you need to learn in order to take your faith to the next level is how to rightly divide the Word of God.To watch the video of this message, you can watch us on Victory Channel (Dish 265 or DirecTV 366), on Faith Broadcasting Network (DirecTV channel 379) and you can always watch our broadcasts on demand on our website or our  YouTube Channel!For more information regarding Weeter Ministries, to send prayer requests, praise reports or to become a Covenant Partner with us to get this uncompromised Word of the Living God out to the world, please visit our website: WeeterMinistries.orgSupport the show

Do you ever feel like your prayer life could use a complete overhaul? Do you find yourself dreading your prayer time because you feel overwhelmed with all that you THINK you are missing when you pray? You might be surprised to hear that there are multiple kinds of prayer and many of them can easily work with our different personalities. We don't have to live life beat down and ashamed because our prayers don't sound like someone else's. We have access to the Living God, and He is not measuring us against anyone else. He has created us each in beautiful and unique ways, and our prayer life can be a reflection of how He made us. Join in today as Tiffany Jo Baker speaks with Janet McHenry, award winning author, speaker, and coach, on the topic of praying personalities.Listen in for:The different praying personalities of Biblical people What we can learn from Jesus model of prayer How we can easily pray throughout our dayWhat the four prayer personalities areFavorite Quotes:"I don't have to have the same prayer practices someone else does." - Janet McHenry"Let's shift from having a prayer life, where we pray five minutes and are done, to a praying life where we are actually in communication with God all day long." - Janet McHenry"Prayer is less about answers, and more about access." - Janet McHenryFavorite Scriptures:Jesus model prayer in Matthew 6:9-13"I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength. " - Philippians 4:13To find more about all the things Janet has written and is doing, please visit her website at https://www.janetmchenry.com *If you're looking for perfectly polished people or podcast, this isn't for you. We're real people, with real good information, and a really great God.*Want timely words, resources and episodes delivered right to your inbox to help you fuel and fulfill your faith journey? Simply subscribe today to never miss an episode at https://www.tiffanyjobaker.com/subscribe (don't worry, you won't get spam or excessive emails)Don't miss the next Tiffany Jo Baker Podcast episode as we continue to help you GET FREE, LIVE FULL & THANK GOD! You can watch on YouTube and https://www.tiffanyjobaker.com/tiffany-jo-baker-podcast or listen in on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast player. Ratings and reviews are like high-fives and “go-girl's” on podcast Helping you refresh and refocus so you can do all the things you are called and created to do, my 31 Day Devotional “Soul-Care for Go-Getters” is available on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and my website shop here. ( https://www.tiffanyjobaker.com/go-getters-devo )As a 3x Surrogate, Speaker, Soul-Care and Success Coach and Spirit-led Strategist, I uplift the soul and success of women like you who are walking out your WHY, so you can birth your God-given dreams at home, online, and in the real world. Find me, @TiffanyJoBaker, on Instagram , Facebook and https://www.tiffanyjobaker.com. I would love to connect with you there!

Welcome to Living GodCast, the sermon podcast from Church of the Living God in Winchester, KY!Each week, we bring you powerful biblical messages to encourage and strengthen your faith. Whether you're part of our local church family or tuning in from afar, we pray these messages inspire you in your walk with Christ.Join us in person at 114 Franklin Avenue, Winchester, KY, or explore more about us online at ⁠www.wincitycolg.com⁠. For additional resources and ways to connect, visit our Linktree: ⁠https://linktr.ee/wincitycolg⁠. Subscribe and grow with us in God's Word!

Welcome to Living GodCast, the sermon podcast from Church of the Living God in Winchester, KY!Each week, we bring you powerful biblical messages to encourage and strengthen your faith. Whether you're part of our local church family or tuning in from afar, we pray these messages inspire you in your walk with Christ.Join us in person at 114 Franklin Avenue, Winchester, KY, or explore more about us online at ⁠www.wincitycolg.com⁠. For additional resources and ways to connect, visit our Linktree: ⁠https://linktr.ee/wincitycolg⁠. Subscribe and grow with us in God's Word!

Welcome to Living GodCast, the sermon podcast from Church of the Living God in Winchester, KY!Each week, we bring you powerful biblical messages to encourage and strengthen your faith. Whether you're part of our local church family or tuning in from afar, we pray these messages inspire you in your walk with Christ.Join us in person at 114 Franklin Avenue, Winchester, KY, or explore more about us online at ⁠www.wincitycolg.com⁠. For additional resources and ways to connect, visit our Linktree: ⁠https://linktr.ee/wincitycolg⁠. Subscribe and grow with us in God's Word!

In one of the greatest declarations of all time, in the midst of pagan territory, Peter declares, in answer to Jesus' question, "Who do you say that I am," "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God!"  The truth of Peter's statement is profoundly relevant for this life and the life to come. 

In week 4 of our series, The Church of the Living God, we turn to 1 Timothy 4:6-16 to explore what it means to be A Trained Church that remains strong – especially in trying times.Website:www.experienceredemption.comFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/experienceredemptionInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/experienceredemption

Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott StrickmanSermon Series: Imagining the Church1 Timothy 3:14-16 (ESV)14 I hope to come to you soon, but I am writing these things to you so that, 15 if I delay, you may know how one ought to behave in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, a pillar and buttress of the truth. 16 Great indeed, we confess, is the mystery of godliness:He was manifested in the flesh, vindicated by the Spirit, seen by angels,proclaimed among the nations, believed on in the world, taken up in glory.Sermon OutlineThe church, as a household (v15), is the family of God.Church of The Living God (v15)The Mystery of Godliness (v16)How To Behave (v15)Prayer of ConfessionOur gracious heavenly Father, we are assembled before you, the living God. With honesty and humility, we confess our sins. We have not displayed the family likeness. We have not followed the ways of Christ. We have wandered and walked in the ways of the slanderer, the deceiver, the accuser, the liar, the murderer. We have compromised the truth. We have not acted with honor towards those in the household of faith, nor our neighbors. Forgive us. We thank you that Jesus is the way, the truth and the life. In this family gathering, renew us, nourish us, cleanse us, lead us. Amen.Questions for ReflectionIn what ways is a church like a family? Are there ways in which a church is not like a family? Why is the weekly pattern of assembling in the presence of the living God an essential part of the Christian life? (the word for “church”, ekklesia, also means an assembly)How is a Sunday worship service like a family gathering? How do falsehood and deception bring ruin? How do they turn people against God and one another?How is God's plan for all things held together in Christ? What makes Jesus the way, the truth, and the life?What can we do to keep focused on the things God has chosen to reveal? What things can we do while there is still much we don't understand?Why is it important that Christians get clear on how they are to behave? What are some of the characteristics of the family of God? What are some traits that all members of God's household should have?

So...Where's the Rest?Assistant Pastor Terence FlowersHebrews 4:1-4, 6-7, & 10-11September 28, 2025Today, we continue our current sermon series, 'Yahweh Perspectives'.Listen to Assistant Pastor Terence Flowers speak about how we need to rest in God.#churchofphila #churchofphiladelphia #buildinglivesthroughlove #loveinaction #2025sermon #onlinechurchTo support this ministry and help us continue to build God's kingdom click here: http://www.churchofphila.comIf you've just made a decision for Christ, please respond HERE: http://www.churchofphila.comOur vision is to provide a place where people of all colors, creeds, and nationalities can come together and worship the Living Savior who is Jesus Christ, the Son of the Living God.Connect with Us Website: http://www.churchofphila.comTwitter & Instagram: Charlotte, NC: @churchofphilacha Asbury Park, NJ: @churchofphilaap Lakeland, Florida: @churchofphilalkldFacebook: Charlotte, NC: www.facebook.com/churchofphila Asbury Park, NJ: www.facebook.com/churchofphilaap Lakeland, Florida: www.facebook.com/churchofphilalkld

Each week we gather to tell the story of God. By engaging in God focused rhythms we are able to refocus our heart on Him.

"I am/The Only Living God"_Speaker: Paul Berube

Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Scott StrickmanSermon Series: Imagining the Church1 Timothy 3:14-16 (ESV)14 I hope to come to you soon, but I am writing these things to you so that, 15 if I delay, you may know how one ought to behave in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, a pillar and buttress of the truth. 16 Great indeed, we confess, is the mystery of godliness:He was manifested in the flesh, vindicated by the Spirit, seen by angels,proclaimed among the nations, believed on in the world, taken up in glory.Sermon OutlineThe church, as a household (v15), is the family of God.Church of The Living God (v15)The Mystery of Godliness (v16)How To Behave (v15)Prayer of ConfessionOur gracious heavenly Father, we are assembled before you, the living God. With honesty and humility, we confess our sins. We have not displayed the family likeness. We have not followed the ways of Christ. We have wandered and walked in the ways of the slanderer, the deceiver, the accuser, the liar, the murderer. We have compromised the truth. We have not acted with honor towards those in the household of faith, nor our neighbors. Forgive us. We thank you that Jesus is the way, the truth and the life. In this family gathering, renew us, nourish us, cleanse us, lead us. Amen.Questions for ReflectionIn what ways is a church like a family? Are there ways in which a church is not like a family? Why is the weekly pattern of assembling in the presence of the living God an essential part of the Christian life? (the word for “church”, ekklesia, also means an assembly)How is a Sunday worship service like a family gathering? How do falsehood and deception bring ruin? How do they turn people against God and one another?How is God's plan for all things held together in Christ? What makes Jesus the way, the truth, and the life?What can we do to keep focused on the things God has chosen to reveal? What things can we do while there is still much we don't understand?Why is it important that Christians get clear on how they are to behave? What are some of the characteristics of the family of God? What are some traits that all members of God's household should have?

Our words and actions point to God.

God the Father planned salvation. God the Son accomplished salvation. God the Holy Spirit, he applies salvation. He changes our lives. He makes us different people. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1170/29

One of the facets of being a Christian is that we are made to worship the Living God. When coming out of the NAR, knowing how to worship God in light of His Word can be challenging to navigate, as one is detoxing from emotionalism and unbiblical practices. How do we worship after leaving this movement?Join me as we consider this topic by considering a helpful teaching on this important aspect of our Christian faith. Resource:The Marks of Spirit-Led Worship: https://youtu.be/NXXCqza6Yf0?si=jscfq20ItgG-FkvDMy info:Website: http://www.lovesickscribe.comSubscribe to my blog here: http://eepurl.com/dfZ-uHInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lovesickscribe/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lovesickscribeblog

If you look at the testimony of scripture from Genesis to Revelation, you will see that it is the work of the Holy Spirit to reveal God. To draw people into a relationship with God. To transform people in that new life in Christ. And then to reproduce the very life of Christ within the individual experience and within the corporate experience we call the church. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1170/29

Establishing a firm, Scriptural foundation for taking your faith to the next level.To watch the video of this message, you can watch us on Victory Channel (Dish 265 or DirecTV 366), on Faith Broadcasting Network (DirecTV channel 379) and you can always watch our broadcasts on demand on our website or our  YouTube Channel!For more information regarding Weeter Ministries, to send prayer requests, praise reports or to become a Covenant Partner with us to get this uncompromised Word of the Living God out to the world, please visit our website: WeeterMinistries.orgSupport the show

Be Careful of what you entertainSenior Pastor Lincoln & First Lady Prophetess Nerissa NelsonGenesis 3:1-11September 21, 2025Today, we continue our current sermon series, 'Yahweh Perspectives'.Listen to Senior Pastor Lincoln & First Lady Prophetess Nerissa Nelson speak about what and who we need to careful of.#churchofphila #churchofphiladelphia #buildinglivesthroughlove #loveinaction #2025sermon #onlinechurchTo support this ministry and help us continue to build God's kingdom click here: http://www.churchofphila.comIf you've just made a decision for Christ, please respond HERE: http://www.churchofphila.comOur vision is to provide a place where people of all colors, creeds, and nationalities can come together and worship the Living Savior who is Jesus Christ, the Son of the Living God.Connect with Us Website: http://www.churchofphila.comTwitter & Instagram: Charlotte, NC: @churchofphilacha Asbury Park, NJ: @churchofphilaap Lakeland, Florida: @churchofphilalkldFacebook: Charlotte, NC: www.facebook.com/churchofphila Asbury Park, NJ: www.facebook.com/churchofphilaap Lakeland, Florida: www.facebook.com/churchofphilalkld

This week, in our series The Church of the Living God, we studied 1 Timothy 2:1-7 to see what it means to be a praying church.Website:www.experienceredemption.comFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/experienceredemptionInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/experienceredemption

John Calvin taught that there are two essential aspects to all true knowledge: knowledge of God and knowledge of self. These two beliefs are deeply interconnected. To rightly know God is to rightly understand ourselves and the world around us. Belief in the idea of God is virtually universal; most people around the world believe in some concept of the divine. However, the Nicene Creed points way beyond a mere spirituality, calling us to belief in the One True God defined as Father and revealed as Almighty. While short in words, this phrase is packed with meaning which points us to the God revealed in the Bible and made known in the story of the Old Testament. As God met Moses at Mount Sinai in the book of Exodus, He revealed His true character and nature. What we find is a God who is present and involved in the lives of His people, who loves and forgives, yet who also “by no means clears the guilty.” The True and Living God chose to make Himself known; therefore, we don’t have to wonder or speculate. What we believe about God matters greatly, because we are always moving toward the object of our worship, being shaped by our idea of God or whatever becomes the god of our lives.

Well hey there, hello to ya today. Welcome to this special episode of The Burt (Not Ernie) Show, the podcast that takes God at His word, encourages listeners as they walk with the Lord, and boldly proclaims that all God's promises prove true. This is something of a re-launch of the podcast, as I have not recorded a new episode in about five months.  A lot of varying reasons for the long break, but now the show is back. So, let's jump right in!   We're living in an era when believers need a whole lot of encouragement, and when those who are considering Christianity want an honest look at what it means to be a Christian, a follower of Jesus. This episode is aimed at both of those goals. Followers and curious seekers alike. Let me read from the New Testament book of Luke, chapter 13, about four verses. Starting in verse 23, through verse 28. I'm reading from the Amplified Bible, so you can compare it to your preferred translation or read along in your Bible or in case you want to make note of different translations and versions and do some Bible study on this passage later on. All of those are really good things, by the way. Don't just take someone's word for it when it comes to what the Bible says, and of course that includes me. Read it for yourself anytime you want to, fact check me like crazy. Let God be true and every man, every woman, every person be a liar, Romans 3 verse 4 says. When it comes to teaching the Bible, we should be very comfortable having our sources checked. If anyone teaching God's word is not comfortable with that, something is very, very wrong. And in those situations, you may want to … run. (Not really kidding around with that advice.)    Here's what this passage says, verbatim, in the Amplified Bible:   Luke 13:23-27 Amplified Bible, Classic Edition 23 And someone asked Him, Lord, will only a few be saved (rescued, delivered from the penalties of the last judgment, and made partakers of the salvation by Christ)? And He said to them, 24 Strive to enter by the narrow door [force yourselves through it], for many, I tell you, will try to enter and will not be able. 25 When once the Master of the house gets up and closes the door, and you begin to stand outside and to knock at the door [again and again], saying, Lord, open to us! He will answer you, I do not know where [[a]what household—certainly not Mine] you come from. 26 Then you will begin to say, We ate and drank in Your presence, and You taught in our streets. 27 But He will say, I tell you, I do not know where [[b]what household—certainly not Mine] you come from; depart from Me, all you wrongdoers!   Okay, so if you're not familiar with the Amplified Bible, it is wordy. Because the Greek and the Hebrew of the New and Old Testaments often carry a depth of meaning in each word that is tricky to fully convey in the English language, different translations word things differently. The Amplified basically takes all the meanings of the text in the original language and adds them, usually in parentheses, which is why what I just read to you may have sounded choppy. Also, the Amplified capitalizes words like He, Him, Mine, etc. when it is talking about the Lord. And there are a few capitalized words in the text I just read.  Were I to leave out those extra words that are in parenthesis, it would read like this: And someone asked Him (that's a capital, so someone asked Jesus this question.) Lord, will only a few be saved. And He said to them, Strive to enter by the narrow door, for many, I tell you, will try to enter and will not be able. When once the Master (and that is capitalized, so it's talking about the Lord) of the house gets up and closes the door, and you begin to stand outside and to knock at the door, saying, Lord, open up to us! He will answer you, I do not know where you come from. Then you will begin to say, We ate and drank in Your presence, and You taught in our streets. But He will say (again, He is capitalized, so the Lord will say), I tell you I do not know where you come from; depart from Me, all you wrongdoers!    This is weighty. This is no joke. Jesus' answer to the question He was asked is heavy. This is serious stuff! “Will only a few be saved?” was the question. The ESV says, “Lord, will those who are saved be few?” Kind of a yes or no question. But Jesus was so good to expound upon this, to go beyond the short answer and give us all this important information as His answer. Now, back to studying the Amplified (and yes, it does require studying. Not sure when Bible “study”, in air quotes, began to not be studious. Study, the word tells us that it takes some effort, focus, and intention. If your Bible study group is not studying the Bible, you could be a person to kind of change that, to step off the merry-go-round of quick and easy answers, making a joke instead of really digging into the text, leading a group that goes through the Bible and studies it rather than maybe a small group that gets gossipy and talks about fashion and somewhat trashy shows on streaming. Y'all know what I'm talking about, and if you are new to Christianity and are shocked that I'm saying this, that's okay. A faith that can't hold up to some examination is, well, perhaps more cult-like than faith-in-Jesus like. Women's small groups are notorious for not doing enough actual Bible studying. New believers, keep searching for groups that do real Bible study and if you can't find a group, start a group.) So as we study this text in the Amplified, we find the Greek for the word saved in verse 23 has some depth to it. Lord, will only a few be saved? Rescued, delivered from the penalties of the last judgment, made partakers of the salvation by Christ. Yeah, a lot more depth there. This is about the very end of time, the last judgment. And that day, it's coming for all of us. If we say we love Jesus but we live like we're never going to stand before Him and have our lives examined, then we're probably not living for Him in our everyday lives. And notice it says made partakers of THE salvation by Christ. That little three letter word T-H-E…there is only one salvation and it is by Christ. That is almost certainly the most important thing I will ever say on the podcast, honestly. When it says strive to enter by the narrow door, the Amplified gives added depth by saying force yourself through it. Force yourself through the narrow door, the doorway to eternal salvation. Force yourself through it! Maybe, just maybe, this concept of raising your hand from your seat during a mega-conference altar call and then never opening your Bible, spending time in prayer, following Jesus as His disciple, just maybe that is nothing like forcing yourself through the narrow door. You know, we live in the very era when Jesus' return is at hand, and forcing ourselves through the narrow door that makes us partakers of THE salvation by Christ is the clarion call for this hour. Now is the time, my friend. This decision for Jesus should not be put off until another day. It shouldn't be put off for another hour! This is the time!  In this passage, when Jesus describes them knocking at the door again and again, like they are trying to beat that door down, the same narrow door that they did not force themselves through when they had the opportunity, trying to gain entry by incessant pounding on that door…and what will He say on that day? How will He respond to their knocking again and again? He'll say He does not know where they come from - from what household, because it's certainly not His. That's repeated twice, in verses 25 & 27. And in between, in verse 26, they implore Him by stating that they ate and drank in His presence…oh this is very convicting. How often are we “in His presence” and thinking that's good enough? They'll say, “You taught in our streets.” Is it going to get Him to open the door if you remind Him that He was taught about in your local church? Think about what this passage means for your own life. Are you ready for this day? Because it's coming, ready or not. I've said before that we need to get ready, be ready, and stay ready. Force yourself through that narrow door. Be on the inside when He shuts that door tight.    Just a few more thought I'd like to share on Luke chapter 13.  Verse 23 makes it super clear that this is about where a person will spend eternity. How many people in the year 2025 never even give a single thought to their eternal destination? We've been so desensitized, so conditioned to only think about this life, the here and now, focus on immediate gains, quick fixes, the current struggle and how to make that struggle end, and our own selves and “living in the moment” that thinking about forever does not really happen for so many people. Are you living for the moment, or are you living for forever? Does anyone stand on their platform, or ask their loved ones, if they know for certain they will be rescued, delivered from the penalties of the last judgment, made partakers of the salvation by Christ? Do I do that? Lord, what do You want to change in my heart, mind and life so that my focus turns from the temporal to the eternal, and so that I speak life - eternal life - over others?    Jesus' reply here,  and He minces no words, as was His norm, is: “Strive to enter by the narrow door”. I'm hitting on this again to share something that is important. The definition of strive is to “make great efforts to achieve or obtain something” - “struggle or fight vigorously”. It implies great exertion against great difficulty and specifically suggests persistent effort. Synonyms include “labor, toil, struggle, compete, exert oneself, and endeavor”.  Even a quick evaluation of those words reveals the heart behind Jesus' answer to the critically important question asked by an unidentified person in the thirteenth chapter of Luke. The Lord is telling us that getting on and remaining on the narrow road is anything but easy-street. And yet, is that what American Christianity so often teaches? Don't they make it seem as if a five-second prayer is all it takes in order to enter into eternal life with Jesus (think of those “Every head bowed and eye closed, and raise your hand and pray along with me if you want to be saved today” kinds of church moments…). But what if that's not exactly true? What if that is, say, step one of a long walk on the narrow road? And if the door itself is narrow, and we must force ourselves through it, as the Amplified says in verse 24, is that happening for most of us? Are we being discipled, are we discipling anybody else, are we students of the Word of God, are we spending time in prayer and listening for what the Holy Spirit might say to us? Have we forced ourselves through that narrow door? Have we encouraged anyone else to force themselves through the narrow door? Do we know the signs of the times well enough to recognize that there are just a few grains of sand left in the hourglass of all time?    Let me read this to you: Luke 14:25-35 New Living Translation The Cost of Being a Disciple 25 A large crowd was following Jesus. He turned around and said to them, 26 “If you want to be my disciple, you must, by comparison, hate everyone else—your father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters—yes, even your own life. Otherwise, you cannot be my disciple. 27 And if you do not carry your own cross and follow me, you cannot be my disciple.  28 “But don't begin until you count the cost. For who would begin construction of a building without first calculating the cost to see if there is enough money to finish it? 29 Otherwise, you might complete only the foundation before running out of money, and then everyone would laugh at you. 30 They would say, ‘There's the person who started that building and couldn't afford to finish it!' 31 “Or what king would go to war against another king without first sitting down with his counselors to discuss whether his army of 10,000 could defeat the 20,000 soldiers marching against him? 32 And if he can't, he will send a delegation to discuss terms of peace while the enemy is still far away. 33 So you cannot become my disciple without giving up everything you own. 34 “Salt is good for seasoning. But if it loses its flavor, how do you make it salty again? 35 Flavorless salt is good neither for the soil nor for the manure pile. It is thrown away. Anyone with ears to hear should listen and understand!”   Have you thought of discipleship like this? That being Jesus' disciple means you hate everyone else by comparison? This is serious stuff. Far more intense than is normally spoken about by pastors or preachers or speakers or the books down at the Better Book Room (Wichitans, you remember the BBR?) Do we hate our own life in contrast to being His disciple? Thinking about these words of Jesus' is a good reset for me. Why am I so continually concerned about my issues, my fears, my life, my stuff? It's just gross, and it is not fitting for a disciple of the Lord Jesus. Because if I don't hate my own life by comparison to being His disciple, then I cannot be His disciple. Point blank frankness right there. And if I do not carry my own cross and follow Him, I cannot be His disciple. So, how am I doing at hating my own life by comparison to His discipleship and am I carrying my own cross and following Him? It's a self test we all need to take every day.  Jesus says not to begin the path of being His disciple until we count the cost. Shouldn't that be mentioned during the altar call? I don't exactly know what this should look like, in every church or at every event, but I know enough to know that most of what takes place absolutely does not fit the model Jesus laid out for us here. We're getting it all wrong! And if we tell people it's all good, you raised your hand and never forced yourself through the narrow door, never counted the cost, never hated your life, never picked up your cross to follow Him…we are lying to them! He says we cannot become His disciple without giving up everything we own. I no longer have ownership rights over my life or my stuff or my health or my money or over people. Because I've giving all that up to become His disciple. Salt is good for seasoning, Jesus says. But if it loses its flavor, how do you make it salty again? How salty are you? Flavorless salt is good neither for the soil or the manure pile. Am I salty or am I not? Lord, give us ears to hear, so that we can listen and understand! Am I a student, a learner of Jesus? Do I understand that it's more than a head nod, a hand raised decision to follow Him - it's more than saying yes to His invitation. It's picking up my cross and following Him after saying yes. It's moving onward with Him, it is not standing still while He moves onward.  Think about carrying your cross. I think, maybe here in western culture, we don't exactly get the implication. It's difficult. It costs us something, every day that we carry it. But where are we carrying it to? Where is this carrying of my cross leading me? To a crucifixion, that's the only logical end point. Am I crucifying my flesh? Am I dying to myself, daily, of my own willing choice and volition, of course depending on the Spirit of the Living God within me because no one can do that on their own, but am I willing, does it ever even cross my mind? Am I picking up my cross today, carrying the heavy and thing closer and closer to my own death to self? Or am I not? Anybody that ever said Jesus' teachings were easy, well, they need to read the words in red again. Taking up our cross is a one-way journey. It's forcing ourselves through that narrow door.  Jesus carried a cross, and so do His disciples, His followers.  What kind of follower am I? Am I following but ready to peel off and go my own way when it gets uncomfortable for me personally? Have I counted the cost and decided that yes, I really can afford to follow Jesus?  In the following, the Lord does the fixing and the cleaning up of our lives. This is not Jesus saying we need to get it together before we follow Him. He says what He says, and it's not that. He simply needs His followers to know it's not the easy way out, the life of Christians. But He'll do His work of making us new as we follow Him day by day. It's costly either way, right? Follow Jesus? There's a cost. Reject Jesus? Oh, there's also a cost. That choice, well, it costs a pretty penny. Let Him become the owner of all we have. Our children, our finances, our health, all of it. It's only safe with Him anyway, so it's the best available choice, but we still need to make the choice consciously, weighing it out, understanding it. Let's not be like slimy used car salesmen who get people to pick up what we're laying down based on implications that this is the easy way to live out your days and then, wham, the bottom falls out and they feel like they got sold a lemon.  And if you say you follow Jesus, you profess to follow Him, but you lose your flavor somewhere along the way…you are no longer distinct enough to be clearly known as one of His disciples, well, that's the time you're fit for nothing but to be thrown out. A Christian should look like, think like, speak like, behave like, have the nature of Christ. Salt ought to be salty. A Christian ought to be like Christ Jesus.    The promise in Luke 13 and 14 is so worth it, though, isn't it? It's eternal life for now and forever. It's being on the inside when the door is closed. It's knowing that life, it's going to be hard at times, especially as we get nearer to the return of Jesus, it's going to get more intense, and following Him with saltiness may come with some costs that are not common to us here in America, but are becoming common at an astounding rate. But the hard life that ends in death without Jesus, that's the wide road, the wide door. The road ends somewhere for all of us. It's His promise that by picking up our cross, carrying it daily as we follow Him, staying salty all the way until the end, we get to go through the narrow door. Carry your cross today. Force yourself through the narrow door. Because He'll keep all His promises, and what's coming is going to knock your socks off. “He who endures to the end shall be saved.” Those are Jesus' words to us in Matthew 24:13. Indeed, that's a promise He's going to keep.   Thanks for joining me for this re-launch episode. I'm so grateful to be back on the podcast, and if this encouraged you or challenged you, would you share it with someone today? Lord bless you, and I'll see ya back here next time. Bye bye.

In this powerful message, we're reminded of the vital importance of living God's Word in community.