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Jehu was God's weapon of judgment upon Ahab and Jezebel. He carried out his mission with intensity and zeal. Although God has not called the church to violence, we should, nevertheless, imitate Jehu's zeal in our mission to love. 1 Kings 16:30-33 Ahab did more to provoke God to anger than all the kings of Israel who came before him. He introduced and sponsored the worship of Canaanite gods, including Baal and Asherah. His wife, Jezebel of Sidon, was a religious zealot who relentlessly persecuted the prophets of Yahweh, including Elijah (1 Kgs. 19:2). 1 Kings 21:5-7 When righteous Naboth refused to sell his vineyard to Ahab, Jezebel took matters into her own hands. After she had Naboth executed, Ahab took possession of his neighbor's plot. 1 Kings 19:15-17; 21:19-29 God ordained that Jehu become king instead of Ahab. This Jehu would be God's weapon of vengeance upon Ahab's house. 2 Kings 9:4-13 After a young prophet anointed the military commander, Jehu, king, his officers immediately supported his bid for the throne. 2 Kings 9:30-31 Jehu first confronted and the reigning king Joram, Ahab's son. Then he came for Jezebel. Next, he arranged for the death of all Ahab's seventy sons. 2 Kings 10:18-19 Last of all, Jehu killed as many worshipers of Baal as he could and turned the temple into a latrine. John 3:16-17 Jesus is the true and better Jehu. However, God did not send him to condemn the world, but to save it. Revelation 19:11-16 Nevertheless, when Jesus comes again, he will come in judgment, making Jehu's zeal look small in comparison. Pastor Sean uses the Bible version NRSVUEThe post Forgotten Kings: Jehu first appeared on Living Hope.
Big Idea: Hope fuels present endurance and joy. Problem: Joy and strength are lost when hope is tied to circumstances. Solution: Hope in Christ's promised return offers us joy and strength through all trials. Vision: Become people who endure suffering with visible joy because our lives are anchored to the future Christ has promised. Steps To Change: Anchor your hope in Christ's return; endure suffering with that hope; and find joy not in your circumstances, but in Christ and the future joy He has promised. Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, who by God's power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory, obtaining the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls. 1 Peter 1:3-9 Links: Website: https://thegrovechurch.co Instagram: https://instagram.com/thegrovechurchofficial Facebook: https://facebook.com/thegrovechurchofficial Sermon Audio: https://soundcloud.com/thegrovechurchofficial Podcast: https://tr.ee/c0BcdkUV3C Support Our Ministry: https://grovechurch.churchcenter.com/giving If this video was helpful to you, please like, comment, and subscribe — and share it with someone who needs hope today.
Welcome back to Living Hope Church! This week, Pastor Matt Brummett brings the word! Every day, we face a decision—will we fight for the life God has called us to, or slowly drift away without realizing it?In this message, Fight or Flight: The Battle for Your Headspace, we explore how the enemy often works subtly, not through dramatic attacks, but through distraction, drift, doubt, and isolation. Using the helmsman analogy, Scripture reminds us that being even one degree off course over time can lead us far from where God intends us to be.Through biblical examples, real-life stories, and practical application, this sermon challenges casual believers, leaders, and prayer warriors alike to examine their spiritual “heading” and reclaim intentional focus on Christ.From Hebrews' warning against drifting, to James' call for honest confession, we are reminded that victory begins in the mind—and course correction begins with humility, prayer, and community.This message calls us to drop the masks, release the grip on comfort and reputation, and fix our eyes once again on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith.Every day is an opportunity.Will you fight—or will you flee?Welcome to Living Hope Church! These podcasts are our weekly Sunday sermons. We hope you enjoy them.
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1 Peter Bible Study 1st ep Scripture: 1 Peter Teacher: Linda Boyette Intro to 1 Peter.
Deuteronomy 17 God anticipated that Israel would ask for a king, and He did not forbid it. Instead, He gave specific instructions for those He would appoint. The most important requirement was that the king write a personal copy of the Law and use it as a guide for his life and rule. God also placed specific limitations on the king: he was not to multiply wives, horses, chariots, or silver and gold. These restrictions were intended to keep the king dependent on God rather than on worldly power or wealth. Ultimately, God was to remain Israel's true King, and any human ruler was to serve in partnership with Him, not as a replacement. 1 Samuel 8:5-7 Israel says: “Now appoint a king for us to judge us like all the nations.” – wrong motive. 1 Kings 10:22-24 The first three kings; Saul, David, and Solomon all reigned for 40 years. Saul failed to remain faithful, David was the best having God central, Solomon starts good ended terrible. v.23 So King Solomon became greater than all the kings of the earth in riches and in wisdom. 1 Kings 11:1-13 Solomon worshiped false gods influenced by his pagan wives. God told him He would split the kingdom. 1 Kings 12:1-33 Rehoboam was king over Judah and Benjamin and Jeroboam over the 10 northern tribes. Proverbs 16:18; 11:2; 29:23 Pride comes before a fall. Proverbs 11:14; 12:15; 15:22; 24:6 Wise counsel. Rev. Vince uses the Bible version NASB-95The post Forgotten Kings: Rehoboam first appeared on Living Hope.
As we begin a new year filled with goals, plans, and expectations, it's easy to focus on the future while overlooking what God is inviting us into right now.In this message from our Everyday Opportunities series, we are reminded that every day presents an opportunity to glorify God—especially through prayer.From the instant breakthrough of Paul and Silas, to the long, tearful waiting of Hannah, Scripture shows us that prayer is not a ritual reserved for special moments, but an open invitation to speak with God at any time. Whether opportunities come easily or require patience and humility, prayer keeps us aligned with God's will rather than relying on our own strength.As we set goals for 2026, this sermon challenges us to ask an important question: Are we inviting God into every step, or are we trying to do it alone?Every day is an opportunity to talk to God. Every day is an opportunity to reconnect with Him. Every day is an opportunity to know Him more deeply.Welcome to Living Hope Church! These podcasts are our weekly Sunday sermons. We hope you enjoy them.
Sermon Handout Sermon Slides 1 Peter 1:1–12
In this episode of Anchored Conversations, Marian Jordan Ellis sits down with women's ministry leader and Bible teacher Tasha Calvert to talk about what it really means to live a life anchored to Jesus—especially in a culture that often celebrates the opposite of holiness.Peter's message to the early church is strikingly timely: believers are “elect exiles” living under pressure, misunderstood, and sometimes mocked—yet called to stand out with lives so compelling that others “see your good deeds and glorify God.” (1 Peter 2)Tasha unpacks holiness with fresh clarity—not as a rigid checklist or religious performance, but as a “sacred otherness that originates from God, is extended to us through His Spirit, manifested in our character, and strengthened in Christian community.”Together, Marian and Tasha talk about:--- What “Be holy, because I am holy” meant to Peter's original audience—and what it means for us now (1 Peter 1)----Why holiness is rooted in the Holy One, not white-knuckled behavior change--- How to live distinctively without becoming defensive, reactive, or losing credibility online--- The role of Scripture, prayer, and community in staying anchored--- The “upside-down economy of God”: how suffering refines faith and clarifies what matters (1 Peter 1)---Why Peter keeps pulling our eyes toward an eternal perspective and an inheritance that can't be stolenIf you've ever felt torn between blending in and standing out—or you're weary from the cultural noise—this conversation will steady your soul and call you back to the Living Hope found in Jesus.➡️ Learn more about Marian's Bible study: Anchored: The Life and Letters of the Apostle Peter (7-week study) https://www.lifeway.com/en/product/anchored-bible-study-book-with-video-access-P005850823
To have hope and joy you have to have a vision for the future that you can pursue in the present. As Christians we have an incorruptible hope because we know that the Kingdom of God is breaking into the present. We can have hope during pain and suffering because our hope is a commission to bring the glory of the next world into the brokenness of this one.
Matthew 3:1-6, 13-17; John 3:22-30; 4:1-3 John the Baptist was called by God to initiate a renewal movement within Israel, featuring repentance through baptism in water. Even though he had no sin, Jesus came to John to “fulfill all righteousness.” Jesus also baptized many, acting through his disciples. Luke 3:15-17; John 15:26; Luke 24:49; Acts 1:4-8; 2:1-4, 32-33 John's prophecy about Jesus was that he would baptize people with the holy spirit. Jesus reiterated this promise at the last supper and shortly before his ascension. On the day of Pentecost, Jesus poured out the spirit on those who believed. Acts 2:37-41; 8:12-13, 36-38; 9:18 (22:16); 10:44-48; 16:14-15, 33; 18:8; 19:1-7; 1 Cor 1:13-17 Baptizing new converts in water was standard operating procedure in the early church. Baptism in water went hand in hand with receiving the holy spirit as demonstrated by Peter's instruction on the day of Pentecost to (1) repent, (2) be baptized, and they would (3) receive the spirit. Romans 6:1-4; Colossians 2:12 Baptism is a symbolic ceremony that affords people a physical experience to identify with Christ's death and resurrection. They symbolically experience burial and resurrection. Although baptism is not necessary for salvation, it is a helpful opportunity for the repentant to make a public profession of faith and commitment. Sean Finnegan uses the Bible version NRSVUEThe post Baptism of Repentance first appeared on Living Hope.
As we step into a new year filled with goals, plans, and good intentions, we are reminded that growth doesn't happen by accident—it happens through obedience.In this message, we launch our new series Everyday Opportunities by looking at the power of saying “yes” to God, even when the opportunity feels small, inconvenient, or uncertain.Using the stories of Isaiah and Philip, we see how God places divine opportunities in front of ordinary people—opportunities that can impact lives, nations, and even generations. From Isaiah's bold response in the throne room of God to Philip's faithful obedience in serving widows and sharing the gospel with a stranger on a desert road, Scripture reminds us that God often does His greatest work through simple obedience.This sermon challenges us to examine where we are right now—not just where we want to be—and to ask whether we are truly looking for the opportunities God places in our path each day.Every day brings a choice: Will we step forward in faith, or retreat back to comfort?“Here I am. Send me.” — Isaiah 6:8Welcome to Living Hope Church! These podcasts are our weekly Sunday sermons. We hope you enjoy them.
Warren Youth Director, Zack Seals, closes our series on The Real Meaning of Christmas with a message from I Corinthians 15 about "Our Living Hope". Christmas means we have a glorious hope in our Savior.
“In Christ” reveals the covenant relationship we have with him. The spirit doesn't change who we are but empowers us to live in the covenant relationship with Christ, freely submitting to his lordship. God's everlasting love is declared in Romans 8. 1 Corinthians 11:23-27 we are in a covenant relationship with Christ and God. A biblical covenant is a binding, relational agreement that God establishes with people in which He defines the relationship, makes promises, sets conditions or obligations, and specifies consequences. It is more than a contract and more than a feeling-based relationship, it is a structured relationship grounded in God's initiative. He is our Father and Jesus is our Lord. The Adamic, Noahic, Abrahamic, Mosaic, Davidic Romans 3:23–24 “in Christ” as a covenant relationship, Christ is Lord who promises justification, redemption, and eternal life, and our response is to submit to his lordship by living under his rule, within the realm of his saving grace. “In Christ” is a metaphor of sphere and relationship, meaning to live under Christ's covenant lordship and to share in all that he has accomplished. Romans 6:3-11 we are to identify with Christ's accomplishments. This is our faith. Romans 6:23 …the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:1-8 flesh – we are born self-centered, given to covetousness, rebellion and the desire to fix ourselves. Galatians 5:16-26 Romans 8:9 the spirit doesn't change who we are but empowers us to live in the covenant relationship with Christ, freely submitting to his lordship. Romans 8:15 you have not been given the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear. Romans 8:18 God loves you. He wants you in His family. Romans 8:25 God loves you and wants you to be with Him forever. Romans 8:31 God loves you, you are part of His eternal purpose. Romans 8:34 God loves you and always has your back. Romans 8:39 nothing can separate you from His love. Rev. Vince uses the Bible version NASB-95The post You Are Loved first appeared on Living Hope.
12/28/2025 - Born Again to a Living Hope (11am) - 1 Peter 1:3-9 - Pastor Greg Pierce
1 Peter 1:1-12. Real hope is not found in a new calendar year or improved circumstances but in the resurrection of Jesus Christ. This living hope secures identity, gives purpose to trials, and fills life with joy that cannot be taken away.
In this sermon message, Pastor Bill Francavilla of Living Hope VA in Williamsburg, Virginia shares some deep insights on how to read your bible - not only how but the significance of reading your bible and the depth of rewards in doing so. He also explores what it means to be part of an exclusive group - Group 5 who can reach their goals. Will reading your bible be one of your goals this year?Welcome to Living Hope Church! These podcasts are our weekly Sunday sermons. We hope you enjoy them.
wdevradio.comhopeforvermont.orgIG @PastorJeffonWDeV
Reading through Luke 2:1-38, we see both God's provision as well as his restraint in the events surrounding the birth of the Messiah. Instead of cluing in the elite and powerful, he worked through shepherds and the elderly to confirm Jesus's destiny to Joseph and Mary. God delights to work with the ordinary to do the extraordinary! Luke 2:1-5 Mary had learned that her child would not be an ordinary boy, he would sit on the throne of David (Luke 1:30-33). Nevertheless, she had to follow the laws of the land, which included traveling while pregnant to be counted in the census. Luke 2:6-7 Ancient houses typically had a space for animals on the first floor. A “manger” is a feeding trough. These were not ideal circumstances from a health and sanitation perspective, yet everything went well. Luke 2:8-12 These shepherds were probably bored watching their flock by night. Seeing an angel and hearing him announce the birth of the Messiah must have been quite the shock! Luke 2:13-14 I get the impression that the angels were bursting with joy at the baby announcement. Rather than keeping it a secret (Luke 9:20-21), they blasted out the good news that the Messiah had been born. Luke 2:15-20 After they found Joseph, Mary, and Jesus in Bethlehem, they recounted what happened, which must have affirmed Joseph and Mary's confidence that this baby really was who they thought he was. Luke 2:21-24 Joseph and Mary followed the commandments of the Torah, including circumcising the child on the eighth day (Lev 12:3), offering the sacrifice for purification on the 40th day (Lev 12:6-8), and paying the redemption fee for a firstborn son (Exod 13:13-15; Num 3:47). Luke 2:25-38 Simeon and Anna confirmed, once again, that this baby was special. He would bring a light to the Gentiles and glory to Israel. Pastor Sean uses the Bible version NRSVUEThe post What Child is This? first appeared on Living Hope.
1 Peter 1:1-9 - A Living Hope by Calvary Chapel Irmo
Join us as we continue our journey from Malachi to Matthew with Pastor Bill Francavilla.Welcome to Living Hope Church! These podcasts are our weekly Sunday sermons. We hope you enjoy them.
Why is it that at the end of seasons that we reflect on how it began? What if the end is the beginning? And how do we just sit and let that happen?Questions for the Road:In what ways have you experienced the disappointment of “hope deferred?”What have you been attaching your hope to lately?What promises of the “God of Hope” can you stand on in this season?How can you share the fruit of this Living Hope with someone else?
Isaiah 9:1-2 The land of Zebulun and Naphtali had suffered greatly when the Assyrian king, Tiglath-Pileser, invaded. Though Isaiah lived through the growth of the Assyrian threat from paying taxes (2 Kgs 15:19-20) to outright invasion (2 Kgs 15:29), he prophesied about a light that would dawn on this dark situation. Isaiah 9:3-5 Isaiah prophesied a great military victory when their yoke would be broken like the day of Midian (Jdg 6:1-6, 11-16; 7:2-3). Isaiah 9:6-7 This prophecy is in the past tense. By Isaiah's time, the child had already been born. The name was “(A) miraculous strategist (is the) warrior God; (the) everlasting Father (is the) commander of peace.” Theophoric names are about God and not the child: Hezekiah = “Yah (is) my strength”; Eliab = “(The) Father is my God.” 2 Kings 18:5-7; 19:32-37 Although it seemed utterly impossible, God employed a miraculous strategy to defeat the Assyrian army, breaking the yoke from Judah in the south and Israel in the north. Luke 1:76-79 The birth of John the Baptist relates to another fulfillment of Isaiah 9:2 when the light shines on those sitting in darkness (cf. Jn 1:5-8). Matthew 4:12-17 Jesus picked up where John left off. He began his ministry of bringing God's light and deliverance from oppression in the ancestral lands of Zebulun and Naphtali. When he returns, he will fulfill the rest of the prophecy of Isaiah 9:6-7 (cf. Rev 19:11-16). Jesus is the true and better Hezekiah who defeats evil, delivers us from oppression, and establishes peace forevermore.The post For Unto Us a Child Is Born first appeared on Living Hope.
wdevradio.comIG @PastorJeffonWDeVPastorJeffonWDeV@gmail.com
Neil continues our sermon series, The Weary World Rejoices, emphasizing that true hope is found in Jesus Christ—our Living Hope—who offers salvation, constant fellowship, understanding, and transformation. He urges us to depend on Him instead of temporary worldly hopes.
Preacher: Jeremiah Fyffe Habakkuk 1:12-2:4 Habakkuk 1:12-2:4 | A Living Hope and Faith from CrossPointe Coast on Vimeo. HABAKKUK'S COMPLAINTS AND THE LORD'S ANSWERS HOW DO THE RIGHTEOUS LIVE? WHAT DOES FAITH LOOK LIKE? STRENGTH AND JOY! FIVE IMPLICATIONS The prophets help us to wait with final judgement in view. Faith rejects self-reliance, self-preservation. The Lord calls us to repent and believe. The Lord is your strength. The Lord is your joy. Faith is the unshakable posture of those waiting for the kingdom, for the security and peace of the King, in the meantime. Achtemeier Habakkuk is a book for all faithful people, of whatever era, who find themselves living “in the meantime”—in the time between the revelation of the promises of God and the fulfillment of those promises—in the time between their redemption, when God made his purposes clear, and the final time when that divine purpose will be realized in all the earth. As such, Habakkuk is a book from faith for faith. Romans 1:18 (ESV) For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth. Romans 3:10 (ESV) None is righteous, no, not one; Romans 4:5 (ESV) And to the one who does not work but believes in him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is counted as righteousness,
What happens when God goes silent?In Part 2 of our Christmas series From Malachi to Matthew, we explore one of the darkest and most mysterious periods in biblical history—the 400 years between the Old and New Testaments.After the prophet Malachi, Israel heard no new word from God. No prophets. No visions. No Scripture. Four centuries of silence. Yet even in the silence, God was still moving.In this message, we trace how God prepared the world for the coming of Jesus through fulfilled prophecy, world events, and faithful endurance. From Daniel's astonishingly accurate visions, to the rise and fall of empires, to the miracle of Hanukkah, we see that God was never absent—only quiet.This sermon is for anyone who has ever wondered where God is in a season of waiting, confusion, or silence. The Christmas story reminds us that when the time was right, God spoke again—and He did so by sending His Son.“When the time came to completion, God sent his Son…” (Galatians 4:4)May this message encourage you to trust God's faithfulness, even when you cannot hear His voice.Welcome to Living Hope Church! These podcasts are our weekly Sunday sermons. We hope you enjoy them.
God has graciously provided us with a diverse community of faith. Rather than judging or worrying about our differences, let's strive to love one another. When issues come up, we can work them out rather than dividing. Romans 12:3-8 God just loves diversity. We see this so clearly by looking at how many kinds of fish, or dogs, or flowers he made. Within the church too, we find lots of diversity with respect to gifts. Rather than worrying about differences, let's work together to serve God as a community. Romans 12:9-13 The great key to community unity is love. Rather than thinking of yourself as a spectator or, even worse, a critic, get involved and find ways to contribute to the community of faith. Romans 12:14-18 All groups of people face conflict from time to time. Thankfully Jesus did not leave us without clear guidance on what to do when you're offended (Mat 18:15-17, 21-22). Romans 14:1-6 Some of us are weaker in our faith while others are stronger. We should cut each other some slack and prioritize community over our individual rights. Romans 14:13-20 It's easy to judge one another on secondary issues that are not clearly stated in the Bible. Everyone has their own shortcomings and limitations, which may be quite different than yours. Romans 16:17-19 Divisiveness, however, is to be avoided. The issue is not whether or not you should stay part of the community, but how can you work the issue out that's bothering you in a godly way. Pastor Sean used the Bible version NRSVUEThe post You Belong 4: Community Unity first appeared on Living Hope.
Today, on Karl and Crew, we kicked off our weekly theme, “Five Christmas Promises,” with Philip Miller, who discussed one of the promises: God sees your need and hears your prayer. We turned to Exodus 3:7-8, where we see that God listened to the cries and prayers of the Israelites when they were in Egypt; they were not unheard. Philip Miller is the Senior Pastor of Moody Church in Chicago. His voice can also be heard on the weekly Moody Church Hour radio broadcast. Then, starting on January 5th, you can listen to Pastor Philip on the upcoming daily program, Living Hope. We then had Bill Gaither join us to talk about his experience in the gospel music industry and his upcoming Christmas tour. Bill is a Grammy Award-winning artist and a pioneering figure in Gospel music, and is celebrated for both his songwriting and mentorship. He is also the founder of The Bill Gaither Trio and is known for penning over 700 gospel songs, including timeless classics like “Because He Lives.” Bill will be bringing the Homecoming Christmas Tour to Willow Creek Community Church in South Barrington, IL, on Friday, December 12, at 7 pm. We also had Boyd Bailey join us to talk about the beauty of joyful giving. Boyd is currently the President of the National Christian Foundation of Georgia, where he helps families steward their generosity through donor-advised funds. Boyd is also the founder of Wisdom Hunters, a ministry whose devotional emails help more than 100,000 readers connect with Christ each day. He also wrote the new book, "The Power of Generosity: Experiencing God's Amazing Abundance." You can hear the highlights of today's program on the Karl and Crew Showcast. If you're looking to listen to a particular segment from the show, look at the following time stamps: Bill Gaither Interview [06:10] Boyd Bailey Interview [15:27] Philip Miller Interview [27:41] Karl and Crew airs live weekday mornings from 5-9 a.m. Central Time. Click this link for ways to listen in your area! https://www.moodyradio.org/ways-to-listen/Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Series: The Advent of ____Week 1 Title: The Advent of HopeMain Scriptures: Proverbs 13:12, Isaiah 40:1–5, Luke 1:30–32, Galatians 4:4, John 14:3, Romans 15:13Big Idea:Hope is not a wishful feeling—hope has a Name, perfect timing, and a promised future.Jesus is our Hope, our Living Hope, and our Coming King. I. Introduction — What Advent Really MeansAdvent = “coming” or “arrival.” Not just remembering Christ's birth but anticipating His return.Historically marked by fasting, reflection, and preparing room for Jesus.Weekly themes: Hope, Peace, Joy, Love.Hope is often the hardest to hold onto—even for strong believers.“Hope deferred makes the heart sick…” (Proverbs 13:12).Hope delayed makes the heart tired. Hope can feel risky or fragile. II. The Reality of HopelessnessMany feel “learned hopelessness”—after disappointment, unanswered prayers, and long waiting, the heart stops expecting anything to change.People do this spiritually the same way the dogs did in the study.BUT God does not want His children living in hopelessness.Isaiah was sent to speak comfort, forgiveness, and hope to weary people.Isaiah 40:1–5: A message of comfort, deliverance, and restoration. God is leveling valleys and mountains—He is preparing a way. III. Truth #1 — HOPE HAS A NAMEHope is not a concept; it's a person—Jesus.Luke 1:30–32: The angel reveals Jesus as the promised One tied to Isaiah's prophecy.Jesus is our Hope… our Blessed Hope… our Living Hope.Our hope is anchored not in circumstances but in who God is. IV. Truth #2 — HOPE HAS PERFECT TIMINGGod's timing is not Amazon Prime—but it's always right on time.Galatians 4:4 — “When the set time had fully come, God sent His Son…”The 400 “silent years” were not silent—God was preparing the world:Socratic method encouraged questions.Old Testament translated into Greek.Jews scattered across the world.Rome built highways and unified language.When conditions were perfect for the gospel to spread, Jesus came.God works the same way in our waiting—He aligns things we cannot see. V. Truth #3 — HOPE IS COMING AGAINAdvent looks backward and forward—Jesus will return.John 14:3 — “I will come back and take you to be with Me…”A future hope: resurrection, restoration, eternal life.Proverbs 13:12 (full verse): Hope fulfilled becomes a “tree of life”—a sign of healing and wholeness in Revelation.One day every longing will be fulfilled.Until then, we choose hope. VI. Closing — A Call to RespondGroup 1: Those far from God—hope is not in something; it's in Someone.Group 2: Believers carrying heavy burdens—Romans 15:13 prayer of overflowing hope.Hope is our posture, our anchor, our promise.“Our hope is not in desired outcomes—but in God Himself.”
Today, on Karl and Crew, we kicked off our weekly theme, “Five Christmas Promises,” with Philip Miller, who discussed one of the promises: God sees your need and hears your prayer. We turned to Exodus 3:7-8, where we see that God listened to the cries and prayers of the Israelites when they were in Egypt; they were not unheard. Philip Miller is the Senior Pastor of Moody Church in Chicago. His voice can also be heard on the weekly Moody Church Hour radio broadcast. Then, starting on January 5th, you can listen to Pastor Philip on the upcoming daily program, Living Hope. We then had Bill Gaither join us to talk about his experience in the gospel music industry and his upcoming Christmas tour. Bill is a Grammy Award-winning artist and a pioneering figure in Gospel music, and is celebrated for both his songwriting and mentorship. He is also the founder of The Bill Gaither Trio and is known for penning over 700 gospel songs, including timeless classics like “Because He Lives.” Bill will be bringing the Homecoming Christmas Tour to Willow Creek Community Church in South Barrington, IL, on Friday, December 12, at 7 pm. We also had Boyd Bailey join us to talk about the beauty of joyful giving. Boyd is currently the President of the National Christian Foundation of Georgia, where he helps families steward their generosity through donor-advised funds. Boyd is also the founder of Wisdom Hunters, a ministry whose devotional emails help more than 100,000 readers connect with Christ each day. He also wrote the new book, "The Power of Generosity: Experiencing God's Amazing Abundance." You can hear the highlights of today's program on the Karl and Crew Showcast. If you're looking to listen to a particular segment from the show, look at the following time stamps: Bill Gaither Interview [06:10] Boyd Bailey Interview [15:27] Philip Miller Interview [27:41] Karl and Crew airs live weekday mornings from 5-9 a.m. Central Time. Click this link for ways to listen in your area! https://www.moodyradio.org/ways-to-listen/Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Everyone loves a perfect Christmas. But, the conditions of the arrival of Christ and his early years were anything but peaceful. It was chaotic, messy and extremely humble. In this first message of the "Not-So Perfect Christmas" series, Pastor Derek Holmes looks at the lineage of Jesus in Matthew 1. This is the bloodline of the King of Kings, but it is full of imperfection, dysfunction and brokenness; making it just the right backdrop for Christ's redemptive glory to shine through. And, in that truth, we find hope and peace that God is working in our brokenness toward redemption as well.
Join us with a new series: Malachi to Matthew. The years between the last Old Testament profit to Matthew. Did God speak to us? Did Malachi have any words to share with us about Jesus? Welcome to Living Hope Church! These podcasts are our weekly Sunday sermons. We hope you enjoy them.
By Mario Seiglie - A hope of a future life beyond our mortal existence is a living hope. What is the connection between hope, faith and love? What happens if we lose hope? What are the three great hopes that we have?
When life goes from bad to worse you might be tempted to think you're really not saved. It's during those times of suffering we need reassurance of our sure salvation, and First Peter provides just that. If you're truly a Christian God wants you to know you're salvation is secure and nothing or no one can take it away. Today on a Daily Walk that encouraging truth comes to our attention, as pastor John Randall revisits 1 Peter chapter one. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1368/29?v=20251111
Driven In Her Purpose: Reignite Your Faith, Pursue Your Purpose, and Live With Intention
Episode 277: Sister, I know firsthand how hard it is to feel hope. I want to have an honest conversation with you about this very real struggle and the good news that provides the strength we need when we need it most. Are you ready to overcome fear with faith, discouragement with confidence, and feeling stuck with steadfast growth in our relationship with God? Join our dynamic and loving sisterhood, the Daughter Arise Collective. Bit.ly/daughterarise Want Community, Free Bible Study Resources, and More? Visit https://theintentionalchristianwoman.com/. One of my favorite places for great Bible resources, PLUS get a 10% Discount: https://www.coffeeandbibletime.com/?ref=nfgfya7p Coupon Code: ROSAALEJANDRO Want to start and grow a successful podcast & business or ministry? Let my amazing podcasting coach help you! https://tinyurl.com/readytopodcast
This week on the Beyond Sunday Podcast, Steve Buttram, Paxton Redd, Josh Hensley, and Michael Shearon kick things off with Thanksgiving laughs, family stories, and a hilarious game of Hallmark or Holy, where they try to determine whether love quotes come from Christmas movies or Scripture. The fun sets the table for a deeper conversation as the Advent season begins with a powerful focus on hope—not the fragile kind rooted in circumstances, but the living hope found in Jesus. Paxton unpacks how hope often rises from the most unexpected places, reminding listeners that our confidence is anchored in the resurrected Christ, not wishful thinking. The guys reflect on a moving moment from Sunday's service where the church physically surrounded those who expressed a need for prayer—an unforgettable picture of the Body of Christ carrying hope together. Steve shares updates on the exciting and chaotic preparations for the upcoming Cadiz campus launch, while Michael previews next week's theme of peace in the middle of chaos. Throughout the episode, the heart of the message rings clear: God's hope is alive, active, and meant to be experienced in community. ✝️ASK A QUESTION – TELL A STORY – CONNECT WITH US
SCRIPTURE- 1 Peter 1:3-4"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who in his great mercy gave us a new birth to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you”REFLECTION- JeffADVENT WORD OF THE DAY- Listen - Begin this morning with five minutes of complete silence. Set aside your phone, your to-do list, and simply whisper, “Lord, what do You want me to hear today?” Let His still voice guide your steps.MUSIC- "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen" by Michael WhalenNOTES-PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God, into Your hands I surrender my life. Pour out Your Spirit upon me that I may love You perfectly, and serve You faithfully until my soul rests in You.
Series: The Advent of ____Week 1 Title: The Advent of HopeMain Scriptures: Proverbs 13:12, Isaiah 40:1–5, Luke 1:30–32, Galatians 4:4, John 14:3, Romans 15:13Big Idea:Hope is not a wishful feeling—hope has a Name, perfect timing, and a promised future.Jesus is our Hope, our Living Hope, and our Coming King. I. Introduction — What Advent Really MeansAdvent = “coming” or “arrival.” Not just remembering Christ's birth but anticipating His return.Historically marked by fasting, reflection, and preparing room for Jesus.Weekly themes: Hope, Peace, Joy, Love.Hope is often the hardest to hold onto—even for strong believers.“Hope deferred makes the heart sick…” (Proverbs 13:12).Hope delayed makes the heart tired. Hope can feel risky or fragile. II. The Reality of HopelessnessMany feel “learned hopelessness”—after disappointment, unanswered prayers, and long waiting, the heart stops expecting anything to change.People do this spiritually the same way the dogs did in the study.BUT God does not want His children living in hopelessness.Isaiah was sent to speak comfort, forgiveness, and hope to weary people.Isaiah 40:1–5: A message of comfort, deliverance, and restoration. God is leveling valleys and mountains—He is preparing a way. III. Truth #1 — HOPE HAS A NAMEHope is not a concept; it's a person—Jesus.Luke 1:30–32: The angel reveals Jesus as the promised One tied to Isaiah's prophecy.Jesus is our Hope… our Blessed Hope… our Living Hope.Our hope is anchored not in circumstances but in who God is. IV. Truth #2 — HOPE HAS PERFECT TIMINGGod's timing is not Amazon Prime—but it's always right on time.Galatians 4:4 — “When the set time had fully come, God sent His Son…”The 400 “silent years” were not silent—God was preparing the world:Socratic method encouraged questions.Old Testament translated into Greek.Jews scattered across the world.Rome built highways and unified language.When conditions were perfect for the gospel to spread, Jesus came.God works the same way in our waiting—He aligns things we cannot see. V. Truth #3 — HOPE IS COMING AGAINAdvent looks backward and forward—Jesus will return.John 14:3 — “I will come back and take you to be with Me…”A future hope: resurrection, restoration, eternal life.Proverbs 13:12 (full verse): Hope fulfilled becomes a “tree of life”—a sign of healing and wholeness in Revelation.One day every longing will be fulfilled.Until then, we choose hope. VI. Closing — A Call to RespondGroup 1: Those far from God—hope is not in something; it's in Someone.Group 2: Believers carrying heavy burdens—Romans 15:13 prayer of overflowing hope.Hope is our posture, our anchor, our promise.“Our hope is not in desired outcomes—but in God Himself.”
Your identity in Christ is received, not achieved. You belong because of God's grace, you are adopted into His family, and your identity is grounded in what Christ has already done. Romans 6 teaches that your old self died with Christ: “Your old self was crucified with Him.” Your former identity isn't improved — it's executed. The old lies—“Only what you see is real,” “Your choices don't matter,” “You can't change”—no longer define you. Scripture calls you to “consider yourself dead to sin and alive to God.” Colossians 3:3 declares that your life is now hidden with Christ in God—covered, secure, and protected. God sees you as a new creation, not as your past. Galatians 2:20 shows that Christ now lives in you. Christianity is not you trying harder but Christ expressing His life through you. Your strength is not your own. Because of this new identity, you belong to a new kingdom: “Sin shall not be master over you.” Shame no longer names you. You now live by faith in the Son of God. You live out your identity by declaring truth (Romans 6:11), renewing your mind (Colossians 3:2), and walking by the Spirit (Romans 8:14). Scripture replaces old labels with God's identity: free, loved, new, forgiven, empowered, never alone, God's workmanship, secure, victorious, chosen, strengthened, and without condemnation. You are dead to sin, alive to God, hidden with Christ, and Christ lives in you. This identity is a gift — now live like you belong.The post You Belong 3: Your New Identity in Christ first appeared on Living Hope.
In a world filled with anxiety, trials, and uncertainty, where does true hope come from? In this Advent message, we look to 1 Peter 1 and discover the living hope Jesus offers. Hope that strengthens us in exile, anchors us in suffering, and reminds us that God is with us. Sermon Notes - http://bible.com/events/49528445 Digital Connect Card - https://redeemertampa.com/connectcard Online Giving - https://redeemertampa.com/give