Podcasts about Macedonia

JUEVES 19 DE JUNIO DE 2025 TU DOSIS DIARIA DE ESPERANZA “Y se le mostró a Pablo una visión de noche: un varón macedonio estaba en pie, rogándole y diciendo: Pasa a Macedonia y ayúdanos. Cuando vio la visión, en seguida procuramos partir para Macedonia, dando por cierto que Dios nos llamaba para que les anunciásemos el evangelio.” (Hechos 16:9-10) Por este pasaje bíblico vemos a tres siervos de Dios siendo guiados por el Espíritu Santo hacia donde debían ir. De dos errores los libró (vs.6-7). Cuando llegaron a Macedonia todo estaba preparado para que una mujer, Lidia, abriera su casa donde surgió la hermosa iglesia de los filipenses. Es por todo esto que aprendemos que el Espíritu Santo es el que marca la ruta a seguir hacia donde se va a facilitar que se abran puertas al evangelio. Con razón el Señor insistió en que el tiempo que tuvieran que esperar por Él valdría la pena. El evangelismo guiado por el Espíritu Santo es éxito seguro. Aún la oposición se transforma en bendición. (Gina Sánchez) -- Te damos la bienvenida a nuestras reflexiones diarias. Cada día leemos y meditamos en una porción bíblica, para encontrar revelación de Dios que encamine nuestros pasos y haga próspero nuestro camino. Esto es… DE DIOS, PARA TI, HOY. ....... http://www.findnewhope.com/nueva-esperanza ....... www.facebook.com/PastoresRobertoyYamiley ....... Pastores Roberto y Yamiley, De Dios Para Ti Hoy - New Hope en Español , Brandon, FL (813) 689-4161

2 Corinthians 8:1-5We want you to know, brothers, about the grace of God that has been given among the churches of Macedonia, 2 for in a severe test of affliction, their abundance of joy and their extreme poverty have overflowed in a wealth of generosity on their part. 3 For they gave according to their means, as I can testify, and beyond their means, of their own accord, 4 begging us earnestly for the favor of taking part in the relief of the saints— 5 and this, not as we expected, but they gave themselves first to the Lord and then by the will of God to us.

2 Corinthians 8:1-5We want you to know, brothers, about the grace of God that has been given among the churches of Macedonia, 2 for in a severe test of affliction, their abundance of joy and their extreme poverty have overflowed in a wealth of generosity on their part. 3 For they gave according to their means, as I can testify, and beyond their means, of their own accord, 4 begging us earnestly for the favor of taking part in the relief of the saints— 5 and this, not as we expected, but they gave themselves first to the Lord and then by the will of God to us.

Menú de la Semana - Menú de Playoffs: Noticias: Bane a Orlando, Thibs despedido y la búsqueda del recambio, Durant, Jordan Ott, Macedonia de Frutas y mucho más A Fuego Lento - Finales Pildora NBA: - Byron Scott por Ángel Castillo Comentarios de los Oyentes y más: Pasamos por nuestra página de Facebook, los comentarios de Ivoox, Twitter, iTunes, Skype y comentarios@raciondenba.com Más información en raciondenba.com. Ración de NBA es un programa que trata el baloncesto NBA en español poniendo énfasis en los jugadores hispanos. Nuestra web: raciondenba.com . Mandar preguntas/comentarios: comentarios@raciondenba.com. Dejadnos un mensaje de voz en Skype: Racion de NBA. Publicamos avisos por Twitter al publicar los episodios para que sepáis cuando podéis ir a descargarlos: - Twitter - Chechu: @astrochechu - Twitter - Javier: @Racion_de_NBA_J Música: Ración de NBA - Limit de Folio en Blanco  Black Samba - Juanitos   http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Juanitos/Soul_Africa/03_-_Black_Samba  Racion de Playoffs - Jaime Limit Slow Dance- Julie & Gent https://www.jamendo.com/track/1552411/slow-dance  Waitin´ - Betsy Olson - https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Betsy_Olson/Betsy_Olson_-_Live__KEXP_1142009/Waitin_1139/ 

In this episode, we explore two powerful moments of rejection in the New Testament: Jesus being turned away in His hometown of Nazareth and by the people of the Gadarenes. What do these rejections reveal about human nature, spiritual blindness, and the cost of truth? Then we shift to the Apostle Paul's unexpected call to Macedonia—a reminder that divine redirection often follows human rejection. Join us as we reflect on how God's purpose prevails, even when the world says “no.”

Terminábamos ayer con la canción “Los dibujos de las nubes”, grabada en directo el pasado 18 de mayo, que fue el inicio del concierto que ofrecieron Celtas Cortos como final de La Veguilla Folk Festival, celebrada en las Bodegas La Cepa Alta de Olivares de Duero (Valladolid) muchos domingos a mediodía desde el 6 de abril. Como nos pasó con Los Hermanos Cubero, también hemos tenido que dividir en dos partes la hora y cincuenta minutos que descargaron Celtas Cortos, dejando además alguna de sus canciones para otras ocasiones.Este es repertorio elegido tras el final de ayer en La Tarataña y grabado en vivo por Celtas Cortos en La Veguilla:1.- Celtas Cortos, “El Blues del pescador”, “Solo ante el peligro”, “Cada día”, “Qué voy a hacer yo”, “Hay que volver”, “El emigrante”, “Macedonia tradicional”, “Lluvia en soledad”, “Retales de una vida”, “Tranquilo majete” y “Cuéntame un cuento”.Escuchar audio

Welcome back! In today's episode, we explore how the early Christians in Thessalonica dared to proclaim a different kind of “good news”—one that directly challenged the power and propaganda of the Roman Empire. --The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the “easy button” for making disciples – whether you're looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org.Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org.Donate Now --The Gospel vs. The Empire: Why Jesus, Not Caesar, Is the Real Good NewsSetting the Stage: A Young Church in a Pagan CityThe Apostle Paul's letter to the Thessalonians is one of his earliest writings, addressed to a young and courageous church in the city of Thessalonica. Located in Macedonia, this city was a thriving cultural center in the Roman Empire. It was full of competing loyalties:Civic Assemblies that promoted public allegiance to Roman ruleJewish communities rooted in Old Testament traditionPagan mystery cults that worshiped local gods like Cabirus and DionysusImperial cults that demanded loyalty to Caesar, who was honored as “Lord” and “Savior”This cultural mixture made Thessalonica a spiritual and political battleground. It was in this context that Paul boldly preached a new message—one that didn't fit into any existing category.Caesar and the Counterfeit GospelTo understand the revolutionary nature of Paul's gospel, we need to grasp how the Roman Empire presented its rulers.Julius Caesar (100–44 BC) was a military genius and political reformer. After his assassination, the Roman Senate declared him divine—Divus Julius.His adopted son, Caesar Augustus, used that claim to establish himself as the “Son of God.” He was also called “Savior” and “Lord”, and he was praised for bringing peace to the empire—the Pax Romana.In 9 BC, an inscription from Priene declared Augustus's birthday “the beginning of the good news (euangelion)” for the world.This was the Roman Empire's version of the gospel: salvation through the emperor, peace through power, and a kingdom built by human might. It was political propaganda wrapped in divine language.Paul's Radical Message: The True GospelIn direct contrast, Paul brought a different kind of good news to Thessalonica.“For when we brought you the Good News, it was not only with words but also with power, for the Holy Spirit gave you full assurance that what we said was true…”— 1 Thessalonians 1:5 (NLT)This message centered on Jesus—not Caesar—as the true Son of God, the real Savior, and the eternal King. Paul wasn't just preaching theology; he was making a political and spiritual declaration. His message was:Not about the birth of Augustus, but the death and resurrection of Jesus (Acts...

Este fin de semana, la emoción y el arte se fusionan en una experiencia sensorial única: la cena espectáculo con Alex Barti, el inolvidable show de marionetas que tendrá lugar el viernes 13 y sábado 14 de junio. Detrás del escenario está Alex Mihailovski, artista nacido en Macedonia y radicado en Dinamarca desde 1992. Es el creador, diseñador y manipulador de Mr. Barti, una marioneta excepcionalmente compleja, construida con un sistema de más de 40 cuerdas que le permite moverse y expresar emociones con una precisión casi humana. El espectáculo, de 30 minutos de duración, se presenta sin texto. Todo se cuenta mediante movimiento, mimo y música. La conexión entre Alex y Barti es tan profunda que borra los límites entre titiritero y marioneta. Barti gesticula, sonríe, se enfada, duda y emociona… y el público no puede evitar preguntarse si el muñeco no está, de alguna forma, vivo. A lo largo de la presentación, sus ojos buscan al espectador, su rostro de trapo transmite ternura, picardía e inocencia, y cada gesto se convierte en una pincelada que revela lo más genuino del alma humana. Esta cena espectáculo no es solo una cita con la buena gastronomía, sino una invitación a asombrarse, reír y sentir. Un espectáculo internacional con una calidad artística fuera de serie.

Este miércoles en Tripulacción: Walter Camacho desde Oriente nos cuenta sobre su aventura... desde Japon hasta Dubai, desde los templos milenarios hasta la fascinante cultura de ambos paises. Además Mariana Coitiño desde Rio de Janeiro nos trae los imperdibles de la ciudad maravillosa. Por último, tendremos un invitado especial que nos contará por qué viajar acompañado a Albania y Macedonia.

Cloverdale Bibleway 25-0521

Send us a textThe story of Bulgaria and the Holocaust is often a narrative about how Bulgaria protected its Jews from the Nazis. But is this really case?  Certainly not in the case of Thrace and Macedonia. In this episode, I talked with Nadege Ragaru about the history of the complex Holocaust in Bulgaria and its attempts to come to terms with this past. Nadège Ragaru is a research professor at the Center for International Studies at Sciences Po Paris. Ragaru, Nadége.  Bulgaria, the Jews, and the Holocaust: On the Origins of a Heroic Narrative (2023)Follow on Twitter @holocaustpod.Email the podcast at holocausthistorypod@gmail.comThe Holocaust History Podcast homepage is hereYou can find a complete reading list with books by our guests and also their suggestions here.

From Acts 16:1-6

Send us a textSisters and brothers let me start this episode with me giving. I want to give each of you thanks. I want to thank each and every person who throughout the years has blessed me and this ministry with gifts and finances. I want each of you to know that if it would not be for you hearing our Father's voice and then obeying Him, my life would be so much more difficult. Again, I truly thank you, each of you and I pray that our Father's blessings will continue to be poured out upon you and your families. If you had not or would not heed to our Father's voice, who's to say that I would not have been reduced to begging and resorting to some of the tricks and manipulations that others in ministry have given into. Living by faith is not an easy task but it is one of the stipulations that our Father has placed upon my life. I depend totally upon Him and then He uses each of you, through your obedience and love for Him, to glorify His name. Again, I cannot say it enough, thank you so much for the ways you have allowed our Father to use you to pour into my life and this ministry. God bless you always! Many of you have been like the church of Macedonia, who Paul could use as an example in their giving.  To hear more of what our Father is speaking to us in this episode click on the buzzsprout.com link or go to your favorite podcast app and search for This Is the Voice of the Prophet. Then look for the episode entitled God Is Not For Sale Part 5!Support the show

A summer rain falls over the backyard, drumming softly against the leaves and pooling in the grass. Distant rumbles of thunder roll through the sky, blending with the rhythmic patter of raindrops on the patio and the occasional drip from overhanging branches.  Birds call out between showers, their songs momentarily breaking through the hush of falling water. A light breeze stirs the trees, sending a soft rustle through the damp foliage. The earthy scent of rain-soaked soil and fresh greenery lingers in the air, wrapping the moment in a calm, almost dreamlike atmosphere.  It's a soothing symphony of nature, capturing the peaceful solitude of a warm, rainy afternoon. Recorded in Skopje, Macedonia by Toni Dimitrov. 

Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.2CO.7:2 Receive us; we have wronged no man, we have corrupted no man, we have defrauded no man.2CO.7:3 I speak not this to condemn you: for I have said before, that ye are in our hearts to die and live with you.2CO.7:4 Great is my boldness of speech toward you, great is my glorying of you: I am filled with comfort, I am exceeding joyful in all our tribulation.2CO.7:5 For, when we were come into Macedonia, our flesh had no rest, but we were troubled on every side; without were fightings, within were fears.2CO.7:6 Nevertheless God, that comforteth those that are cast down, comforted us by the coming of Titus;2CO.7:7 And not by his coming only, but by the consolation wherewith he was comforted in you, when he told us your earnest desire, your mourning, your fervent mind toward me; so that I rejoiced the more.2CO.7:8 For though I made you sorry with a letter, I do not repent, though I did repent: for I perceive that the same epistle hath made you sorry, though it were but for a season.2CO.7:9 Now I rejoice, not that ye were made sorry, but that ye sorrowed to repentance: for ye were made sorry after a godly manner, that ye might receive damage by us in nothing.2CO.7:10 For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death.2CO.7:11 For behold this selfsame thing, that ye sorrowed after a godly sort, what carefulness it wrought in you, yea, what clearing of yourselves, yea, what indignation, yea, what fear, yea, what vehement desire, yea, what zeal, yea, what revenge! In all things ye have approved yourselves to be clear in this matter.2CO.7:12 Wherefore, though I wrote unto you, I did it not for his cause that had done the wrong, nor for his cause that suffered wrong, but that our care for you in the sight of God might appear unto you.2CO.7:13 Therefore we were comforted in your comfort: yea, and exceedingly the more joyed we for the joy of Titus, because his spirit was refreshed by you all.2CO.7:14 For if I have boasted any thing to him of you, I am not ashamed; but as we spake all things to you in truth, even so our boasting, which I made before Titus, is found a truth.2CO.7:15 And his inward affection is more abundant toward you, whilst he remembereth the obedience of you all, how with fear and trembling ye received him.2CO.7:16 I rejoice therefore that I have confidence in you in all things.

Join Pastor Jon Ewton in "The Next Right Thing" series as he delves into Acts 16:6-12, exploring Paul's missionary journey and the imperative of surrendering our plans to God's will. Learn how God's control, coupled with our willingness to listen and obey, can lead to transformative outcomes. Dive into Paul's path through regions and cities like Phrygia, Galatia, and Macedonia as an illustration of following divine guidance. Pastor Jon's personal stories and scriptural insights offer compelling reasons to foster a posture of openness and eagerness in our faith journey. A must-listen for understanding the power of God-directed living.

In our world, being involved with the life of a local church is generally perceived to be a nice option for some people. Far too many consider church about the same as their gym membership. They come when they feel like it, and when it's convenient. They might even feel a bit of ambient guilt about their habit, but they still don't make it a priority. So we return to our Christian Family talks from Paul to Timothy to us. 1 Timothy is the next Bible book written after the close of the events of the book of Acts. Paul wrote his first 10 canonical letters during the time covered in Acts 13-28. He was released from prison in Rome and went back to traveling to build up the churches he had planted between Rome and his sending church in Antioch of Syria. Along the way, he dropped Timothy off in Ephesus with the instruction to eliminate some strange doctrines being taught there. This letter was his follow up, and we get a glimpse into his plans. 1 Timothy 3:14: I am writing these things to you, hoping to come to you before long; Apparently Paul had not been able to finish what he was doing in Macedonia as soon as he might have hoped, so he sent this letter. What we have here is important instruction intended to be shared with all the Christians in the Roman world. By extension, it is at least as important now, for us, through the inscripturated word of God. You're going to see four essential truths that both define what we are as Christians, and tell us what we need to do as a Church. The first is that we are: 1 - A Spiritual Family 2 - Called By The Living God 3 - Anchored In Truth 4 - Focused On Jesus

Hey did you know I have exclusive Podcast Episodes on Patreon? Click here to check out episodes such as "What if Japan invaded the USSR during WW2?: https://www.patreon.com/pacificwarchannel In ancient Macedonia, a legendary figure emerged—Philip II, a father destined to be overshadowed by his son, Alexander the Great. Yet, it was Philip who transformed Macedonia into a formidable power, laying the groundwork for his son's future conquests. Philip, a keen military strategist, faced the fractured city-states of Greece, each rife with rivalry and unrest. Seizing upon their weakness, he reformed his army, introducing innovative tactics that would soon rewrite the battlefield rules. His pivotal triumph came at the Battle of Karania. With a clever mix of patience and swift action, he lured the Greek coalition into a false sense of victory by feigning retreat. This led his enemies, overconfident and disorganized, to pursue eagerly, opening them to a devastating counterattack. As chaos engulfed his adversaries, Philip's forces struck with precision. The Macedonian phalanx, armed with long pikes called sarissas, surged forward, overwhelming the Greek ranks. The once-mighty soldiers of Athens and Thebes faltered, their formations crumbling under the relentless advance of the Macedonians. By day's end, Philip had secured a monumental victory, establishing Macedonia as the preeminent power in Greece. Yet, even as he basked in glory, Philip's ambitions extended further—he saw himself as the liberator of Greece from Persian rule. Little did he know that his legacy would be forever linked to his son, who would take the reins and reshape the world. Thus, the stage was set for the great campaigns of Alexander the Great, born from the triumphs of his father.

Send us a textGood morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:Amazon - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle)Spiritbuilding.com - (premium quality paperback)Youtube Video Introducing the ContentFeel free to reach out with any questions: emersonk78@me.comActs 20 Paul continues his journey, traveling through Macedonia and Greece and encouraging the believers. He stops in Troas, where the Christians “break bread," and he preaches until midnight. During his sermon, a young man named Eutychus falls asleep, tumbles out of the window, and dies. Paul revives him, demonstrating incredible power from God. Later, Paul meets with the elders from Ephesus in Miletus for an emotional farewell. He reflects on his ministry, emphasizing his faithfulness in proclaiming the gospel despite facing trials. He warns them to guard their flock against false teachers and to care for the church, which was purchased with Christ's blood. Paul's heartfelt goodbye includes prayers and tears as he commends them to the word of God's grace and encourages them to actively help the weak among them. This chapter's use of "we” pronouns suggests that the author, Luke, accompanies Paul on this journey, adding credibility to the book of Acts. Luke documents a Sunday gathering, the purpose of which was to gather together to "break bread.” This example implies a Sunday observance of the Lord's Supper, which we still honor today. Preaching until midnight is less common now, as it can lead to dangerous sleep incidents! Eutychus's revival after falling serves as a testament to God's mercy and power. Paul's meeting with the Ephesian elders establishes another model for churches today: elders within local congregations attending to the spiritual needs of their flock. Elders are to be students of the word and supporters of the weak among them.  Benevolent Father, we praise You for the abundant gifts of grace provided through Your Son. We thank You for the perfect and indestructible word that reveals so many beautiful truths to us. We pray for wisdom in studying the word and seeking guidance on how to honor You. May we draw from Acts 20 the importance of gathering on Sundays to partake of the Lord's Supper together. Instill in our hearts a yearning for fellowship. Father, please bless our local churches with devoted elders. Work on all our hearts, shaping us to love the flock and serve in Jesus' honor.  Thought Questions: -       Disciples planned to meet to break bread and study. How important is that example in how you build your weekly schedule around Jesus? -       Paul shared his personal resolve before instructing elders. How important is your own walk of faith as you hope to then teach others? -       The elders were told to stay alert, study well, and help the weak among them. How can you help the local eldership accomplish these goals?

In his 2024 address to 1,200 university graduates, billionaire businessman Robert Hale, Jr. said: “These trying times have heightened the need for sharing, caring and giving. [My wife and I] want to give you two gifts: the first is our gift to you, the second is the gift of giving.” His words were followed by the distribution of two envelopes each to the unexpectant graduates—five hundred dollars to keep and five hundred to give away to a person in need. Though Robert Hale’s wealth has allowed him to share like this on more than one occasion, generosity isn’t reserved for those with great means. Believers in Jesus in ancient Macedonia gave out of their poverty so the needs of believers in Jerusalem could be met. Paul said of the Macedonians, “In the midst of a very severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity” (2 Corinthians 8:2). He commends them because “they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own, they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the Lord’s people” (vv. 3-4). Those who recognize that they’ve been given much grace from God through Jesus can respond with generous hands to the needs of others. With God’s help, let’s give after the example of the One who said, “It’s more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35).

Today, Paul commends the churches of Macedonia who have sacrificially given to support the work of ministry. Our ultimate example in sacrificial love and giving is Christ Himself, who became poor so that we might become rich. Paul also praises the work of Titus, whose life displays this kind of loving sacrifice as is evident in his devotion to the church. Having appealed to the church at Corinth to have their collection of funds ready to be collected and then distributed, Paul asks the church to be ready to give when they come. He wants to make sure that the transaction feels like the joy-filled, generous, gift-giving that it is, rather than some kind of extortion to be handed over begrudgingly. Like seeds, their giving may start small but in time it will produce something larger and more fruitful.  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Seventh Sunday of Easter The First Lesson Acts 16:16-34 With Paul and Silas, we came to Philippi in Macedonia, a Roman colony, and, as we were going to the place of prayer, we met a slave girl who had a spirit of divination and brought her owners a great deal of money by fortune-telling. While she followed Paul and us, she would cry out, "These men are slaves of the Most High God, who proclaim to you a way of salvation." She kept doing this for many days. But Paul, very much annoyed, turned and said to the spirit, "I order you in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her." And it came out that very hour. But when her owners saw that their hope of making money was gone, they seized Paul and Silas and dragged them into the marketplace before the authorities. When they had brought them before the magistrates, they said, "These men are disturbing our city; they are Jews and are advocating customs that are not lawful for us as Romans to adopt or observe." The crowd joined in attacking them, and the magistrates had them stripped of their clothing and ordered them to be beaten with rods. After they had given them a severe flogging, they threw them into prison and ordered the jailer to keep them securely. Following these instructions, he put them in the innermost cell and fastened their feet in the stocks. About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them. Suddenly there was an earthquake, so violent that the foundations of the prison were shaken; and immediately all the doors were opened and everyone's chains were unfastened. When the jailer woke up and saw the prison doors wide open, he drew his sword and was about to kill himself, since he supposed that the prisoners had escaped. But Paul shouted in a loud voice, "Do not harm yourself, for we are all here." The jailer called for lights, and rushing in, he fell down trembling before Paul and Silas. Then he brought them outside and said, "Sirs, what must I do to be saved?" They answered, "Believe on the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household." They spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all who were in his house. At the same hour of the night he took them and washed their wounds; then he and his entire family were baptized without delay. He brought them up into the house and set food before them; and he and his entire household rejoiced that he had become a believer in God. The Psalm Psalm 97 Dominus regnavit 1 The Lord is King; let the earth rejoice; * let the multitude of the isles be glad. 2 Clouds and darkness are round about him, * righteousness and justice are the foundations of his throne. 3 A fire goes before him * and burns up his enemies on every side. 4 His lightnings light up the world; * the earth sees it and is afraid. 5 The mountains melt like wax at the presence of the Lord, * at the presence of the Lord of the whole earth. 6 The heavens declare his righteousness, * and all the peoples see his glory. 7 Confounded be all who worship carved images and delight in false gods! * Bow down before him, all you gods. 8 Zion hears and is glad, and the cities of Judah rejoice, * because of your judgments, O Lord. 9 For you are the Lord, most high over all the earth; * you are exalted far above all gods. 10 The Lord loves those who hate evil; * he preserves the lives of his saints and delivers them from the hand of the wicked. 11 Light has sprung up for the righteous, * and joyful gladness for those who are truehearted. 12 Rejoice in the Lord, you righteous, * and give thanks to his holy Name. The Epistle Revelation 22:12-14,16-17,20-21 At the end of the visions I, John, heard these words: "See, I am coming soon; my reward is with me, to repay according to everyone's work. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end." Blessed are those who wash their robes, so that they will have the right to the tree of life and may enter the city by the gates. "It is I, Jesus, who sent my angel to you with this testimony for the churches. I am the root and the descendant of David, the bright morning star." The Spirit and the bride say, "Come." And let everyone who hears say, "Come." And let everyone who is thirsty come. Let anyone who wishes take the water of life as a gift. The one who testifies to these things says, "Surely I am coming soon." Amen. Come, Lord Jesus! The grace of the Lord Jesus be with all the saints. Amen. The Gospel John 17:20-26 Jesus prayed for his disciples, and then he said. "I ask not only on behalf of these, but also on behalf of those who will believe in me through their word, that they may all be one. As you, Father, are in me and I am in you, may they also be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me. The glory that you have given me I have given them, so that they may be one, as we are one, I in them and you in me, that they may become completely one, so that the world may know that you have sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me. Father, I desire that those also, whom you have given me, may be with me where I am, to see my glory, which you have given me because you loved me before the foundation of the world. "Righteous Father, the world does not know you, but I know you; and these know that you have sent me. I made your name known to them, and I will make it known, so that the love with which you have loved me may be in them, and I in them."

Acts 16:6-10 New King James Version   6 Now when they had gone through Phrygia and the region of Galatia, they were forbidden by the Holy Spirit to preach the word in Asia. 7 After they had come to Mysia, they tried to go into Bithynia, but the Spirit did not permit them. 8 So passing by Mysia, they came down to Troas. 9 And a vision appeared to Paul in the night. A man of Macedonia stood and pleaded with him, saying, “Come over to Macedonia and help us.” 10 Now after he had seen the vision, immediately we sought to go to Macedonia, concluding that the Lord had called us to preach the gospel to them.

LA BIBLIOTECA DE LA HISTORIA nos abre uno de sus archivos, que nos va a acercar a: "Las conquistas de Babilonia y Persépolis. Saga de Alejandro Magno #7". Hoy en "Las Arenas del Tiempo" y de la mano del escritor e historiador Sergio Alejo Gómez, continuamos con ese avance imparable de las tropas de Alejandro Magno por los territorios del Imperio Persa, y hoy, tras asistir a la conquista de Egipto y la gran victoria en Gaugamela, viajaremos al corazón del Imperio Persa, concretamente veremos cómo Babilonia y Persépolis se rendían ante el gran Alejandro III de Macedonia. Sin más preámbulos os dejo con el programa. -Enlace al podcast Calamares a la Romana: https://www.ivoox.com/podcast-calamares-a-romana_sq_f12234654_1.html Sergio Alejo es historiador, licenciado por la Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona, y especializado en el mundo antiguo concretamente en todo lo concerniente a las civilizaciones griega y romana. Ejerció durante un tiempo como docente de educación secundaria y en estos momentos su principal ocupación es la de escritor. Sergio es un autor muy prolífico y una muestra de ellos es que tiene publicados por el momento un total de 13 libros. Cinco de ellos forman parte de la pentalogía titulada Las Crónicas de Tito Valerio Nerva, en la que viviremos de primera mano las aventuras y desventuras de un veterano legionario romano en unos tiempos muy turbulentos para Roma. Además de esta apasionante pentalogía, tiene una trilogía de novelas que forman parte de la saga "Renovatio Imperii", cuyo primer libro se titula "Herederos de Roma", cuyo segundo volumen se titula "Águilas en África", y cuya tercera parte se titula "Roma Inmortal", novelas en las que viviremos de primera mano las aventuras de un soldado del Imperio Romano de Oriente. Y su última novela se titula "Deuda de Sangre", novela ambientada en las famosas Guerras Dacias de Trajano, una novela apasionante que está haciendo las delicias de los amantes de la historia de Roma. Por último, y por el momento, Sergio nos ha traído tres ensayos, uno de ellos es el libro titulado "¿Sabías qué? Curiosidades del mundo antiguo", otro ensayo de Sergio, y que es un libro hermano al nombrado anteriormente es el libro de mismo título, ¿Sabias qué?, pero cuyo subtítulo es "Un paseo por la antigua Roma", y es que en esta ocasión el libro se centra en diversos capítulos de la historia de Roma. Por último y para completar por el momento esta saga de ensayos ha publicado recientemente el libro "¿Sabías qué? Un paseo por la Antigua Grecia, donde nos desvela un puñado de los capítulos más importantes e interesantes de este periodo histórico. El último libro de Sergio es la novela titulada "Odisea de Bronce y Hierro", ambientada en el final de la Edad de Bronce y en la invasión de los Pueblos del Mar. Además de esto Sergio es colaborador del podcast "La Biblioteca Perdida" con su sección "Por los Dioses". También es miembro del grupo "Divulgadores de la Historia" y además cómo tuvisteis ocasión de comprobar en el audio sobre recreación histórica, Sergio es recreador histórico en el grupo "Barcino Oriens". -Página Web de Sergio Alejo donde adquirir sus libros y leer sus artículos: www.sergioalejogomez.com -Libros de Sergio Alejo en amazon: https://www.amazon.es/Sergio-Alejo-G%C3%B3mez/e/B07S9H1P7J/ref=dp_byline_cont_pop_ebooks_1 -Canal de YouTube Sergio Alejo: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuQWXhi5MLoxFlrCKgBuE1Q -Enlace al podcast Calamares a la Romana: https://www.ivoox.com/podcast-calamares-a-romana_sq_f12234654_1.html Este es un Podcast producido y dirigido por Gerión de Contestania, miembro del grupo "Divulgadores de la Historia". Somos un podcast perteneciente al sello iVoox Originals. Enlace a la web del grupo "Divulgadores de la Historia": https://divulgadoresdelahistoria.wordpress.com/ Canal de YouTube de LA BIBLIOTECA DE LA HISTORIA: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfHTOD0Z_yC-McS71OhfHIA *Si te ha gustado el programa dale al "Like", ya que con esto ayudarás a darnos más visibilidad. También puedes dejar tu comentario, decirnos en que hemos fallado o errado y también puedes sugerir un tema para que sea tratado en un futuro programa de LA BIBLIOTECA DE LA HISTORIA. Gracias. Música del audio: -Entrada: Epic Victory by Akashic Records . License by Jamendo. -Voz entrada: http://www.locutordigital.es/ -Relato: Music with License by Jamendo. Redes Sociales: -Twitter: LABIBLIOTECADE3 -Facebook: Gerión De Contestania Muchísimas gracias por escuchar LA BIBLIOTECA DE LA HISTORIA y hasta la semana que viene. Podcast amigos: Niebla de Guerra: https://www.ivoox.com/podcast-niebla-guerra_sq_f1608912_1.html La Biblioteca Perdida: https://www.ivoox.com/podcast-podcast-la-biblioteca-perdida_sq_f171036_1.html Casus Belli: https://www.ivoox.com/podcast-casus-belli-podcast_sq_f1391278_1.html Victoria Podcast: https://www.ivoox.com/podcast-victoria-podcast_sq_f1781831_1.html Relatos Salvajes: https://www.ivoox.com/podcast-relatos-salvajes_sq_f1470115_1.html Motor y al Aire: https://www.ivoox.com/podcast-motor-al-aire_sq_f1117313_1.html Pasaporte Historia: https://www.ivoox.com/podcast-pasaporte-historia_sq_f1835476_1.html Cita con Rama Podcast: https://www.ivoox.com/cita-rama-podcast-ciencia-ficcion_sq_f11043138_1.html Sierra Delta: https://www.ivoox.com/podcast-sierra-delta_sq_f1507669_1.html Permiso para Clave: https://www.ivoox.com/podcast-permiso-para-clave_sq_f1909797_1.html Héroes de Guerra 2.0: https://www.ivoox.com/podcast-heroes-guerra_sq_f1256035_1.html Calamares a la Romana: https://www.ivoox.com/podcast-calamares-a-romana_sq_f12234654_1.html Lignvm en Roma: https://www.ivoox.com/podcast-lignum-roma_sq_f1828941_1.html Bestias Humanas: https://www.ivoox.com/podcast-bestias-humanas_sq_f12390050_1.html Escucha el episodio completo en la app de iVoox, o descubre todo el catálogo de iVoox Originals

Aquilino"La guerra delle regine"Ambizioni, intrighi e tragedie nell'era dei diadochiBonfirraro Editorewww.bonfirraroeditore.itLa guerra delle regine esplora il lato oscuro e affascinante dell'era dei diadochi, i successori di Alessandro Magno, attraverso gli occhi di coloro spesso trascurati dalla storia: le donne. In questo coinvolgente racconto, l'autore trasporta i lettori in un viaggio intrigante attraverso le ambizioni, gli intrighi e le tragedie delle regine e principesse che lottavano nel caos del potere post-Impero di Alessandro.Il libro racconta le storie delle donne dimenticate dalla storia, le cui vite sono intrecciate con quelle dei grandi conquistatori.Nel libro si narrano le loro aspirazioni, i loro intrighi, e la guerra che si sono fatte, offrendo una prospettiva unica e coinvolgente grazie al narratore, Filippo II di Macedonia, che evade dalla propria condizione di defunto per guidare i lettori attraverso le tumultuose vicende dei diadochi.Da Olimpia, spietata fanatica di riti dionisiaci, a Cleopatra, remissiva e sfortunata, passando per Rossane, la bellissima moglie di Alessandro Magno, ostaggio ora dell'uno ora dell'altro, fino a Cinane, guerriera illirica, e Adea, adolescente ambiziosa e determinata, ogni personaggio rivive nelle pagine di questo libro con una profondità e una complessità che sfida il nostro immaginario storico.Attraverso una narrazione avvincente, Aquilino ci trasporta nel cuore delle battaglie, degli intrighi politici e delle tragedie personali che hanno caratterizzato questo tumultuoso periodo della storia antica. Con una visione critica e pacifista dei grandi conquistatori celebrati come eroi mitici, il libro offre una prospettiva ricca e articolata su un'epoca spesso idealizzata dalla narrazione tradizionale.La guerra delle regine di Aquilino ci porta alla scoperta del mondo segreto e affascinante dei diadochi. Una lettura avvincente e imperdibile per gli amanti della storia e dell'epica narrativa.Aquilino Salvadore, nome d'arte Aquilino, è nato a Tradate nel 1949 e vive a Oleggio. Ex insegnante, ha pubblicato più di sessanta libri per bambini, ragazzi e adulti. Drammaturgo e regista, ha vinto numerosi premi nazionali di letteratura e di teatro.Collabora con l'associazione Tecneke e ora si diletta anche di pittura.IL POSTO DELLE PAROLEascoltare fa pensarewww.ilpostodelleparole.itDiventa un supporter di questo podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/il-posto-delle-parole--1487855/support.

Gligor Tashkovich served as the Minister of Foreign Investment for the Government of the Republic of Macedonia, one of just 23 officials elected by the citizens to run the country. His ministry uniquely intersected with all other ministries in matters related to foreign investment. Under his leadership, Macedonia became the first country globally to fully ratify a Stabilization and Association Agreement with the 28-member European Union, enabling companies to establish manufacturing operations within Macedonia's four special economic zones and export duty- and tax-free into the EU. Coupled with Macedonia's low wage rates and a flat 10% corporate and personal income tax, this created a compelling and competitive environment for businesses aiming to expand into Europe without the burden of higher wages.Gligor's expertise spans oil and gas pipeline geopolitics in the Caspian and Black Sea regions, early development of the Internet in Europe and North America (1984–1994), and international business development across more than 15 industries.In this episode we dive into a few of the many ways that he has changed the world as we now know it.

Our focus moves to 2 Corinthians 8:1-15 and Paul's persuasive argument for the church at Corinth to follow the lead of the churches in Macedonia and support the church in Jerusalem.

Acts 16:16-34 With Paul and Silas, we came to Philippi in Macedonia, a Roman colony, and, as we were going to the place of prayer, we met a slave girl who had a spirit of divination and brought her owners a great deal of money by fortune-telling. While she followed Paul and us, she would cry out, "These men are slaves of the Most High God, who proclaim to you a way of salvation." She kept doing this for many days. But Paul, very much annoyed, turned and said to the spirit, "I order you in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her." And it came out that very hour. But when her owners saw that their hope of making money was gone, they seized Paul and Silas and dragged them into the marketplace before the authorities. When they had brought them before the magistrates, they said, "These men are disturbing our city; they are Jews and are advocating customs that are not lawful for us as Romans to adopt or observe." The crowd joined in attacking them, and the magistrates had them stripped of their clothing and ordered them to be beaten with rods. After they had given them a severe flogging, they threw them into prison and ordered the jailer to keep them securely. Following these instructions, he put them in the innermost cell and fastened their feet in the stocks. About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them. Suddenly there was an earthquake, so violent that the foundations of the prison were shaken; and immediately all the doors were opened and everyone's chains were unfastened. When the jailer woke up and saw the prison doors wide open, he drew his sword and was about to kill himself, since he supposed that the prisoners had escaped. But Paul shouted in a loud voice, "Do not harm yourself, for we are all here." The jailer called for lights, and rushing in, he fell down trembling before Paul and Silas. Then he brought them outside and said, "Sirs, what must I do to be saved?" They answered, "Believe on the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household." They spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all who were in his house. At the same hour of the night he took them and washed their wounds; then he and his entire family were baptized without delay. He brought them up into the house and set food before them; and he and his entire household rejoiced that he had become a believer in God.

April 25, 2025 - Equipped 2025 - Day 2 - 7:15PM Session   Jimmy leads a bible study comparing the life of Paul and the perspectives of Isaiah.   1 Timothy 1 -Greeting 1 Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ, by the commandment of God our Savior and the Lord Jesus Christ, our hope, 2 To Timothy, a true son in the faith: Grace, mercy, and peace from God our Father and Jesus Christ our Lord. No Other Doctrine 3 As I urged you when I went into Macedonia—remain in Ephesus that you may charge some that they teach no other doctrine, 4 nor give heed to fables and endless genealogies, which cause disputes rather than godly edification which is in faith. 5 Now the purpose of the commandment is love from a pure heart, from a good conscience, and from sincere faith, 6 from which some, having strayed, have turned aside to idle talk, 7 desiring to be teachers of the law, understanding neither what they say nor the things which they affirm. 8 But we know that the law is good if one uses it lawfully, 9 knowing this: that the law is not made for a righteous person, but for the lawless and insubordinate, for the ungodly and for sinners, for the unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers, 10 for fornicators, for sodomites, for kidnappers, for liars, for perjurers, and if there is any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine, 11 according to the glorious gospel of the blessed God which was committed to my trust. Glory to God for His Grace 12 And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord who has enabled me, because He counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry, 13 although I was formerly a blasphemer, a persecutor, and an insolent man; but I obtained mercy because I did it ignorantly in unbelief. 14 And the grace of our Lord was exceedingly abundant, with faith and love which are in Christ Jesus. 15 This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief. 16 However, for this reason I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might show all longsuffering, as a pattern to those who are going to believe on Him for everlasting life. 17 Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, to God who alone is wise, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen. Fight the Good Fight 18 This charge I commit to you, son Timothy, according to the prophecies previously made concerning you, that by them you may wage the good warfare, 19 having faith and a good conscience, which some having rejected, concerning the faith have suffered shipwreck, 20 of whom are Hymenaeus and Alexander, whom I delivered to Satan that they may learn not to blaspheme.   Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qsvUPDvyP18   Duration 44:58

Faithful Stewardship, Disciplined Giving Please turn to 2 Corinthians 8. Our sermon text will begin with verse 16 and will continue through chapter 9 verse 5. You can find that on page 1150. I think, of all the passages we've studied so far in 2 Corinthians, this one has the most context. It has a lot of specifics about the churches and people. Multiple associates of the apostle Paul's are referenced. Some are named and others are not. The big picture is that Paul is sending 3 delegates to Corinth. That includes Titus. They are being sent to collect the offering that the Corinthians had promised. By the way, Paul calls this delegation his “brothers.” They are not literal brothers. Rather, they are spiritual brothers in the faith. Even though this is a narrative, we learn important things about (1) integrity in financial stewardship and (2) obedience in giving. As I read, listen for those examples. Reading of 2 Corinthians 8:16-9:5 Prayer As you may know, our philosophy of preaching involves working through books of the Bible. One of the benefits of doing that is that we are forced to deal with difficult or uncomfortable subjects as they come up in the Scriptures. That's a good thing. Well, starting last Sunday, we've come to one of those sensitive topics. Giving. I think this is the first time we've had a sermon (or sermons), that focuses on giving or stewardship. I mention that because if you are visiting or have been visiting, these chapters on giving are part of the message of 2 Corinthians. In other words, we didn't pick these two chapter so we could focus on giving. Rather they picked us. They are just part of the message of 2 Corinthians. And even though it is sensitive, it is important for us. Truly, matters of giving are matters of the heart. As we learned last week, God's grace is the foundation to these 2 chapters. Giving is called an “act of God's grace.” It is God who gives his grace to the giver… He turns his or her heart to give. Furthermore, it is God who blesses the receiver. He likewise bestows his mercy and grace on them. And at the very heart of God's grace is the grace of God in Christ. Remember, chapter 8 verse 9 is key to it all. “For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you by his poverty might become rich.” Jesus Christ, God the son, became a man for us. He, in humility, bore our sin on the cross. Jesus endured the shame. You see, he became poor in that way… And through that amazing grace, he has given us riches. Not earthly riches, but riches of his mercy and kindness. In Christ, we have been given peace with God. We have been given the righteousness of Christ. We are now honored not because of any goodness of our own, but only because of the goodness of God in Christ. The grace of God in Christ is what's it's all about. That is why these 2 chapters over and over emphasis the heart. It is about God's transforming grace in us. And an outworking of that grace is a heart desire to give. If you don't remember anything else about last week and this week, remember this. The act of grace in giving is God's act of grace in Christ. Now, if you are still evaluating Christianity, I want you to know that giving will not put you in the good graces of God. You will not merit his favor by donating. Not at all. God does not want or need your money. Rather, he wants you to give something far more difficult to give. He wants you to give your life to him. Jesus said, “if anyone would come after me, let him deny himself, take up his cross daily and follow me.” To put it in terms of 2 Corinthians 8. God's grace is what enables us to recognize our spiritual poverty and recognize our need for the riches of God's mercy. If you are not a believer in Christ, don't give your resources, give your heart. Let me make one final opening comment. There's an really underlying theme that spans both of these chapters, but it is not explicit. And that theme is the unity of the visible church. You see, part of the message of chapter 8 and 9 is that those in the church around the world are united to one another. The Macedonians are brothers and sisters in Christ with the Corinthians. And both the Macedonians and the Corinthians are united together with the poor Christians in Jerusalem. Paul is calling on the church to support the needs of one another no matter the tribe, tongue, or nation. We share something far more important than our culture or language or ethnicity. We share in Christ. To be sure, I'm not diminishing the importance of culture or ethnicity, rather I'm saying that the thing that unites all believers together (all around the world) is Jesus. There are many Christians and churches around the world that have many needs – some are enduring the consequence of war like Christians in Gaza or Ukraine. Others like in Africa or Southeast Asia are in environments of extreme poverty. I don't know what burdens God has placed upon each of you to give… or how we as a church can best support those brothers and sisters in Christ. But God has called us to do so in some way. Perhaps we can find ways to give and support those in deep need. Ok, with that background in mind, let's now shift our attention to these specific verses. We'll consider two main things this morning. #1. The Stewardship of Giving #2. The Discipline of Giving Stewardship… meaning that the resources of the church are God's resources. His kingdom resources – we are stewards and therefore we have the responsibility to administer them with integrity. And discipline… meaning spiritual discipline. we have the responsibility to follow through on the call to give. Giving is a discipline just like other areas of the Christian life. #1 - The Stewardship of Giving And both of these points are exemplified in our passage this morning. In other words, stewardship and discipline are principles modelled for us in these verses. Remember, the apostle Paul is in Macedonia. He's in the northern part of ancient Greece. He's experienced their generosity. In the beginning of chapter 8, he uses the Macedonians as an example for the Corinthians to follow. And now Paul turns his attention to the Corinthians. And one of the things we learn is that the Corinthians had promised to give to the church in Jerusalem. Their promise happened before the false teachers had stirred up dissent. But, nonetheless, they had promised to contribute. Now, Paul recognized the sensitivity of everything that had happened. And because of that, he wanted to ensure the utmost integrity in giving. In other words, he doesn't want anyone to question the legitimacy of the giving. He doesn't want the Corinthians to think that he is taking any of the contributions. He doesn't want his presence to coerce the Corinthians or make them think that this is just his own personal agenda. And so, to address that, here's what he does: he sends this delegation of three men to collect their gifts. Titus is one of them. He was well known by the Corinthians. In fact, Titus had just returned to Paul after visiting with them. And then two other brothers are mentioned. Look at verse 18 – “With him [with Titus] we are sending the brother who is famous among all the churches for his preaching of the gospel.” This brother, whoever he is, had a reputation of faithfulness among the churches. And he was a great preacher of the Gospel. We don't know who he was. Some scholars and pastors have made educated guesses. I have my thoughts. But he is not named because it does not matter to us. Ok, then there's a third guy mentioned in verse 22. It says, “And with them [you know, with Titus and the other brother] we are sending our brother whom we have often tested and found earnest in many matters...” We get the sense from the end of verse 22 that he was also known by the Corinthians. So, this delegation was sent… But why did they go? Well, look at verses 20. It captures their purpose. It says, “We take this course so that no one should blame us about this generous gift that is being administered by us.” They wanted to be blameless. Do you see that? They wanted to be above reproach. They were overseeing financial gifts and wanted all to be assured of their integrity in handling the donations. And why did they want to be so careful? Verse 21 answers that: “…for we aim at what is honorable not only in the Lord's sight but also in the sight of man.” Integrity all around. First, to honor God because they recognized they were stewards of the gifts. And second so that the Corinthians knew of their care in the administration of the gifts. Do you see it now? How this is an example of Godly stewardship and integrity. Stewardship and integrity is just as critical today as it was 2000 years ago. In 2020, a study estimated that 6.5% of donations given by Christians globally is lost to fraud and embezzlement. 6.5%. The study was referring to Christians around the world giving to churches, to charities, and to other non-profits. 6.5% translates to about 52 billion dollars annually. It's just an estimate, but it gives us an order of magnitude of the severity of the problem. That is sad to hear. I suspect some of you know believers who have gotten caught up in fraud of some kind. Or you know of churches that have gone through financial scandals. When I moved to Atlanta in the mid-1990s, I worked for a Christian ministry. That ministry was duped by a so-called Christian philanthropist. He promised that if they invested in his financial firm, he would double or triple their investment in one year. Churches, ministries, and Christian universities were all fleeced by this guy. It turned out to be a Ponzi scheme. And these organizations, like the one I worked for, lost a combined 135 million dollars in the scam – about 300 million in todays dollars. Poor handling of money by Christians or worse theft or even worse scandals, like that one, tarnish the name of Christ. It fosters mistrust inside the church. And its hypocrisy turns people away from Christ and the Gospel. It's tragic. We are called as the church to faithfully steward the resources entrusted to us. Let me highlight 4 principles from this text: 1. Those who handle money need to love the Lord and love his church. In this chapter, the word “earnest” is used 7 times. It testifies to a heart-motivated love for the people of God, or the church of God or an earnestness to faithfully fulfill the responsibility. The word earnest is only second to the word grace in chapter 8. Those who handle money need to have an earnestness that comes from a heart transformed by God's grace. 2. Those given this responsibility need to be tested. They need to be trustworthy. They need to have credibility and experience testified by others. In the case of the delegates, each one of them fulfilled this principle in different ways. Titus was known and proven faithful. The second brother was appointed by the churches (plural) – he had that proven credibility. And the third delegate was “tested.” That's the word used right there in verse 22. He was tested and found earnest. 3. Finances should never be handled by one person. No, there needs to be a team and there needs to be governance. In this example, there were 4 people – the three delegates and Paul from a distance. Just so you know, here at Tucker Pres, we have a finance team, we have a bookkeeper, and we have a third-party accountant. Multiple people involved. 4. And last, #4, transparency. Isn't that what Paul was modelling? He was being transparent so that there would be no questions about their integrity as they oversaw the gifts. So, a love of the Lord… a tested and proven faithfulness… multiple financial overseers… and transparency And every single aspect of this faithful stewardship is to give honor to Christ. As verse 19 puts it, “for the glory of the Lord” and as verse 23 says, “the glory of Christ.” We seek integrity as stewards to honor God because of his grace given to us. #2. The Discipline of Giving Which now brings us to main point number 2. The discipline of giving. Here's the thing. We are called not only to desire to give, but we are called to actually give. Earlier in chapter 8, Paul called the Corinthians to “complete the work.” He says in verse 11, “finish doing it as well, so that your readiness in desiring it may be matched by your completing it.” And really, the beginning of chapter 9 emphasizes that. I think you would agree, it's much easier to have the desire to give sacrificially, than to actually give sacrificially. I read a story once of farmer who one day came home with great excitement. He reported with great joy to his wife and family… that their best cow had given birth to twins. He said to his family, “you know when these twin calves were born… I had a sudden urge that we should dedicate one of these calves to the Lord. We will bring them up together, and when the time comes, we will sell one and give the proceeds to the Lord's work.” His wife and children thought that was tremendous idea. But she asked him, “which calf will you dedicate to the Lord?” He replied, “Oh, there is no need to bother about that now…. we will care for both of them well, feed them well, and when the time comes we will offer one to the Lord.” Well, after a few months, the farmer came home one day and he was dejected. His wife asked, “honey, what is troubling you?” He answered, “I have bad news to give you. One of the calves has died…” and then he said, “It was the Lord's calf.” You see, he had the desire to give, but that was not matched with following through. Giving is one of the disciplines of the Christian life. It is an outworking of the grace of God's work in us. It's similar to seeking discipline in our call to purity of thought and word and deeds… or discipline to pursue peace with others. Or discipline in being faithful to serve others or take a sabbath rest and worship. Or pursuing discipline to follow through on the call to pray and read the Word. As we mature in our faith, God matures us in those disciplines. Let me put it this way: giving testifies that the grace of God is at work in your life. Look at chapter 8 verse 24. Paul says, “Give proof before the churches of your love.” “Give proof.” He was exhorting them to follow through and give to the needs of the saints. It would be a demonstration of their love and their faith. I mentioned last week that I do not have access to see who gives what offerings to the church. I do not want access. But I had a very interesting conversation with another pastor a few years ago. He would purposefully look at membership giving. Now, not all the time, but he would occasionally ask for a summarized list of members and their annual giving. That kind of shocked me. But he gave a couple of reasons. He mentioned that little to no giving indicated either a need for spiritual growth or it indicated a need for financial help. In other words, he would give attention to these people. It's like the opposite of showing partiality to someone with more means. This pastor experienced that a lack of giving often indicated a struggle in the Christian life or a struggle in faith or as I mentioned, an unknown need. To be sure, his purpose in coming alongside people was not so that they would give and therefore help the church finances… that was not the reason… rather it was so he could pastor and care for his flock well. I'm not suggesting that the elders or I will do that here at TPC. No. But it is true that our money often redirects us away from loving God. Giving or not giving can be a good indication of where our heart is. Jesus said, “No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.” To say it again, when we are faithful to give generously and sacrificially, according to our means, it testifies to God's work of grace in us. And when we give it has the effect of encouraging others to also support the needs and work of the church Look at chapter 9 verse 2. Paul writes, “for I know your readiness, of which I boast about you to the people of Macedonia, saying that Achaia [by the way, Corinth is in the region of Achaia] …that Achaia has been ready since last year. And your zeal has stirred up most of them.” There was a mutual stirring up of generosity. The Macedonians gave joyfully. We learned that last week. And they were encouraged by the desire of the Corinthians to give. That is why Paul wants to see the Corinthians fulfill their desire. That's the reason the delegation was sent! It was not, as verse 5 mentions, to “exact” a gift. Paul does mention that not giving would cause humiliation. But that is because they had promised to give. It was not coercion. He is clear about that. Rather, he wants them to honor their promise. And by doing that, it would encourage the Macedonians and bless the Christians in Jerusalem. So really, the Macedonians were an encouragement to the Corinthians to give, and the Corinthians were an encouragement to the Macedonians to give. And all of that would be an encouragement to the believers in Jerusalem, who would themselves give back to the Macedonians and Corinthians… and encourage them. We learned that last week. All of it accomplished the building up of one another in good works and godliness… And all of it was because of the grace of God in Christ, who is glorified in it all. Conclusion To summarize, faithful stewardship and disciplined giving are both expressions of God's grace in Christ. Stewardship is managing the resources that God has entrusted to his church and doing that with the utmost of integrity. When we fulfill that responsibility, as Paul and the delegates modelled for us, Christ is exalted and his bride, the church, reflects his righteousness. Likewise, disciplined giving honors Christ in our lives. It testifies to God's work in us who is transforming us into the image of his son. And to say it one more time, it's all motivated by the grace of God in Christ… who gave up the riches of heaven and became poor to take us out of our poverty and make us rich in his mercy. So, in matters of giving in and to the church, may we seek integrity and faithfulness, all to give honor to God in Christ for his grace. Amen.  

Main Idea: Local churches must support missionaries for the sake of gospel advancement. What does missionary support look like? Three characteristics of missionary support 1. We must support missionaries faithfully (vv. 5-6). What does it look like for us to faithfully support our missionaries? a) Financial support b) Prayer (Colossians 4:2-4) c) Short-term Trips d) Stateside ministry 2. We must support missionaries selectively (v. 7). (Acts 5:40-41)(Romans 1:5) How do we support missionaries selectively? 1) Raise up missionaries from within 2) Partner with like-minded missionaries 3) Partner with like-minded mission agencies and networks. 3. We must support missionaries deliberately (v. 8). (Romans 10:14-15) Conclusion 15  And you Philippians yourselves know that in the beginning of the gospel, when I left Macedonia, no church entered into partnership with me in giving and receiving, except you only.  16  Even in Thessalonica you sent me help for my needs once and again.  17  Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that increases to your credit.  18  I have received full payment, and more. I am well supplied, having received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent, a fragrant offering, a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God. (Philippians 4:15-18)

At Bethany, We are God's People who are: Gathered! Connected! Sent!We want to connect with you through this Podcast! Leave us a comment! Tell us where you are at! Leave a Review to help our audience grow!--May 25, 2025 -- Pr. Kevin Kritzer -- "GO!" Acts 16:9-159 And a vision appeared to Paul in the night: a man of Macedonia was standing there, urging him and saying, “Come over to Macedonia and help us.” 10 And when Paul[a] had seen the vision, immediately we sought to go on into Macedonia, concluding that God had called us to preach the gospel to them. 11 So, setting sail from Troas, we made a direct voyage to Samothrace, and the following day to Neapolis, 12 and from there to Philippi, which is a leading city of the[b] district of Macedonia and a Roman colony. We remained in this city some days. 13 And on the Sabbath day we went outside the gate to the riverside, where we supposed there was a place of prayer, and we sat down and spoke to the women who had come together. 14 One who heard us was a woman named Lydia, from the city of Thyatira, a seller of purple goods, who was a worshiper of God. The Lord opened her heart to pay attention to what was said by Paul. 15 And after she was baptized, and her household as well, she urged us, saying, “If you have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come to my house and stay.” And she prevailed upon us. -ESVhttp://www.bethanylutheran.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.facebook.com/Bethany.Long.Beach⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.youtube.com/c/BethanyLutheranLongBeach

June 1, 2025 Acts 16:11-34 (ESV) 11 So, setting sail from Troas, we made a direct voyage to Samothrace, and the following day to Neapolis, 12 and from there to Philippi, which is a leading city of the district of Macedonia and a Roman colony. We remained in this city some days. 13 And on the Sabbath day we went outside the gate to the riverside, where we supposed there was a place of prayer, and we sat down and spoke to the women who had come together. 14 One who heard us was a woman named Lydia, from the city of Thyatira, a seller of purple goods, who was a worshiper of God. The Lord opened her heart to pay attention to what was said by Paul. 15 And after she was baptized, and her household as well, she urged us, saying, “If you have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come to my house and stay.” And she prevailed upon us. 16 As we were going to the place of prayer, we were met by a slave girl who had a spirit of divination and brought her owners much gain by fortune-telling. 17 She followed Paul and us, crying out, “These men are servants of the Most High God, who proclaim to you the way of salvation.” 18 And this she kept doing for many days. Paul, having become greatly annoyed, turned and said to the spirit, “I command you in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her.” And it came out that very hour. 19 But when her owners saw that their hope of gain was gone, they seized Paul and Silas and dragged them into the marketplace before the rulers. 20 And when they had brought them to the magistrates, they said, “These men are Jews, and they are disturbing our city. 21 They advocate customs that are not lawful for us as Romans to accept or practice.” 22 The crowd joined in attacking them, and the magistrates tore the garments off them and gave orders to beat them with rods. 23 And when they had inflicted many blows upon them, they threw them into prison, ordering the jailer to keep them safely. 24 Having received this order, he put them into the inner prison and fastened their feet in the stocks. 25 About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them, 26 and suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken. And immediately all the doors were opened, and everyone's bonds were unfastened. 27 When the jailer woke and saw that the prison doors were open, he drew his sword and was about to kill himself, supposing that the prisoners had escaped. 28 But Paul cried with a loud voice, “Do not harm yourself, for we are all here.” 29 And the jailer called for lights and rushed in, and trembling with fear he fell down before Paul and Silas. 30 Then he brought them out and said, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” 31 And they said, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.” 32 And they spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all who were in his house. 33 And he took them the same hour of the night and washed their wounds; and he was baptized at once, he and all his family. 34 Then he brought them up into his house and set food before them. And he rejoiced along with his entire household that he had believed in God.

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

In this episode, we sit down with our friend Zoran from Macedonia to talk about grace, calling, and the beauty of living a life led by the Spirit. His stories, prophetic insight, and heart for people will leave you encouraged and challenged. Don't miss this powerful conversation!00:08 - Intro and Welcome01:20 - Special Guest Introduction: Zoran03:00 - First Encounter and Prophetic Encouragement04:10 - Zoran's Family and Global Ministry06:45 - Embracing Grace and Loving All People10:00 - Ministry Work in Macedonia13:00 - Activating Hidden Callings in Others16:00 - Prophetic Words and Long-Term Impact18:30 - Faith, Grace, and Practical Spirituality20:45 - The Power of Words and Unexpected Impact22:00 - Encouragement from James 1:1724:00 - Life Is a Gift and Perfect Moments25:00 - Zoran's Website and Social Media26:00 - Closing Thoughts and Book Promo27:00 - Final Blessing and Sign-Off

Paul travels in the region of Macedonia to Philippi, successfully preaching the Gospel for the first time in Europe.  (Lectionary #291) May 26, 2025 - Cathedral Rectory - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com  

Entrance Hymn #191 Alleluia, Alleluia! Hearts and Voices Heavenward RaiseSequence Hymn #530 Spread, O Spread Thou Mighty WordOffertory Anthem Do Not Let Your Heart Be Troubled (Larson)Communion Anthem Dona Nobis Pacem (Bach, arr. Althouse)Post-Communion Hymn #718 God of Our Fathers, Whose Almighty HandTHE COLLECT OF THE DAYO God, you have prepared for those who love you such good things as surpass our understanding: Pour into our hearts such love towards you, that we, loving you in all things and above all things, may obtain your promises, which exceed all that we can desire; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.FIRST READING Acts 16:9-15Reader A reading from the Acts of the Apostles.During the night Paul had a vision: there stood a man of Macedonia pleading with him and saying, "Come over to Macedonia and help us." When he had seen the vision, we immediately tried to cross over to Macedonia, being convinced that God had called us to proclaim the good news to them.We set sail from Troas and took a straight course to Samothrace, the following day to Neapolis, and from there to Philippi, which is a leading city of the district of Macedonia and a Roman colony. We remained in this city for some days. On the sabbath day we went outside the gate by the river, where we supposed there was a place of prayer; and we sat down and spoke to the women who had gathered there. A certain woman named Lydia, a worshiper of God, was listening to us; she was from the city of Thyatira and a dealer in purple cloth. The Lord opened her heart to listen eagerly to what was said by Paul. When she and her household were baptized, she urged us, saying, "If you have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come and stay at my home." And she prevailed upon us.ReaderThe Word of the Lord.PeopleThanks be to God.PSALM Psalm 67 Deus misereatur1 May God be merciful to us and bless us, *show us the light of his countenance and come to us.2 Let your ways be known upon earth, *your saving health among all nations.3 Let the peoples praise you, O God; *let all the peoples praise you.4 Let the nations be glad and sing for joy, *for you judge the peoples...

Tashara Angelle - May 25, 2025 This Eastertide season sermon explores how God consistently works in ways that defy human expectations and conventional wisdom. Through the stories of the man at the pool of Bethesda and Paul's unexpected encounter with Lydia in Macedonia, the message challenges our tendency to exhaust ourselves trying to "fix" everything through our own efforts. The sermon addresses the modern struggle of feeling overwhelmed by personal and global problems, our impulse to become "fixers" who must control every outcome, and the despair that follows when our efforts fall short. Rather than promoting inaction, it calls listeners to find rest and peace in Jesus as the ultimate source of salvation—not in our own abilities, political solutions, or self-help strategies. The central message is one of liberation: God always has a "back door," a creative workaround that doesn't require what we think He needs. Just as Jesus didn't need the pool to heal, and God didn't need a man to spread the gospel in Macedonia, He doesn't need our frantic efforts to accomplish His purposes. The sermon concludes with an invitation to trust Jesus and lay down our expectations of how problems should be solved. Todays Readings: Acts 16:9-15 | Psalm 67 | Revelation 21:10, 22-22:5 | John 5:1-9 We're so glad you're here! Get in touch: https://rezaustin.churchcenter.com/people/forms/85960

2 Corinthians 8:1-15 The Grace of Giving Our sermon text this morning is 2 Corinthians 8:1-5. You can find that on page 1149 in the pew Bible. As you are turning there, let me note some things. 2 Corinthians 8 shifts to a new matter. There was a need in the broader church. At that time, when the apostle Paul wrote this inspired letter, the church in Jerusalem was very poor and they needed financial help. As you will hear, the churches in Macedonia helped out and Paul encouraged the church in Corinth to respond likewise. The basis of the Macendonians' generosity was the grace of God. As I read, listen for the word grace. It is scattered all throughout these verses. Grace is the Greek word Xaris. It means an act of kindness or an unmerited favor or gift. Reading of 2 Corinthians 2:1-15 Prayer As you probably know, money is often a taboo topic when it comes to the church. There are many reasons for that. Sadly, some churches have experienced financial scandals. Other churches and leaders are manipulative when it comes to donations and tithing. Some claim that you will reap financial blessings if you give. And then there's just the general sensitivity of our personal finances. All of that has made many people inside and outside the church suspicious about tithing and giving. Several years ago, I was reminded about this perception. Before becoming a pastor, my very last work project involved a team of about 10 people for a couple of years. Our task was to build a software platform for a rather large company in downtown Atlanta. We enjoyed working with each other. At times, we spent long days and nights to meet deadlines. We overcame challenges. We celebrated successes. Through it all, we became close friends. They were all aware of my Christian beliefs. Two of them were also believers, which was encouraging. At times, we were able to share our hope in Christ with our colleagues. Well, then the day came. I called a team meeting and I shared that I was leaving the industry to become a pastor. It sparked some other good conversations. A few weeks later we had a little celebration. I bought them each a nice Bible as a gift. And we looked at a few Scripture passages together. Well unbeknownst to me, they got together and bought me a gift. It was more of a gag gift… and I brought it today. The got me an offering plate… and they even had it engraved to me with their names on it as well. We got a big laugh about it. By the way, it also says on it “to God be the Glory in all things.” That was a nice touch. But it was a not-so-subtle illustration about the underlying skepticism about money and the church. Well, I hope that today, and really over the next three weeks as this theme continues, that we all will be reoriented to a Biblical view of financial giving in the church. I think you will find it refreshing and challenging. Let me say a couple more things up front before we dive in. ·     First, I do not have access to see your individual contributions. I asked not to have access because I do not want to know. By the way, neither do our elders. Honestly, I don't want the temptation to be consciously or unconsciously partial to you based on your giving. My relationship to each of you and our elders' relationship to each of you is based on the call we have to spiritually care for and love you in Christ. Though we fulfill that imperfectly, it is our desire. ·     Second, Amy and I seek to be faithful in our giving and tithing to the church. We are participants with you in supporting the mission to which we are called. Now, to be sure, these verses are not about tithing. Tithing is a Biblical concept. You know, giving of your first fruits. The word tithe is the Hebrew word for a tenth. Rather, this passage is more broadly about giving. In fact, it's about giving beyond the needs of the local congregation to support the financial needs of the broader Christian community. Ok, with all of that said, let's now draw our attention to this text. There is a sermon outline. It was a little difficult to find a place in the bulletin to fit it in, but you can find it there on the bottom of page 5. Three points: 1. The Grace of Giving Modelled 2. The Grace of Giving Received 3. The Grace Behind the Grace of Giving. Really, it's the same grace. I'll explain that in a few minutes. 1. The Grace of Giving Modelled (8:1) So, number 1, the Grace of Giving Modelled. Lets start with some quick reminders. The apostle Paul had written a difficult letter to the Corinthians and he sent it with Titus. The plan was for Paul to then rendezvous with Titus in Troas. However, when Paul arrived in Troas Titus did not show up. And that deeply concerned Paul. So, he left Troas and travelled west to Macedonia. The region of Macedonia included churches like Philippi and Thessalonica. They were in the northern part of ancient Greece. And two things happened when Paul got there. Number 1, his dear brother in Christ, Titus, showed up. Titus brought good news about the Corinthians – weve considered that. And number 2, while Paul was in Macedonia, he wrote this letter. We know it as 2 Corinthians. In other words, Macedonia was on his mind. He was experiencing first-hand, their love and generosity for the broader church. By the way, Paul was on his third missionary journey. And one of his objectives was to gather an offering for the impoverished Christians in Jerusalem. So, as Paul travelled, besides teaching and ministering to the churches, he and Titus and others collected financial gifts for the believers in Jerusalem. And what an amazing testimony! The Macedonians are described in verse 1 as having extreme poverty. Yet, they gave abundantly beyond their means. Now, there's something very very important here. It's not about the size of the gift. Because the Macedonians were themselves poor, their gift wasn't a large monetary gift. Rather, the Macedonians' generosity was about their heart's desire. They had, as verse 2 says, an abundance of joy. And they gave with a heart for the Lord and his grace. They, in fact, pleaded to give, and they gave “beyond their means,” it says. Isn't that counter intuitive to our worldly mindset? When we think of generosity, we often think of the size of a gift. Yet, God reveals here that it is a matter of the heart and it is in proportion to our means. Earlier in the service we read the account of the poor widow's offering. Jesus had called his disciples to the temple treasury. As they sat there, they observed people giving their offering. They witnessed different amounts being dropped into the offering box. Clink, clink. Some large gifts were likely given. Perhaps they thought, “Oh, now that's a generous gift…”  But then a poor widow came and she dropped 2 very low value copper coins into the offering. And then Jesus made one those paradigm shifting statements. He said to his disciples, “Truly, I say to you, this poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the offering box. For they all contributed out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty has put in everything she had, all she had to live on.” It was truly an abundant gift. It was abundant because she gave sacrificially from her thankful heart. Is that not like the sacrifice here of the Macedonians? They modelled giving from hearts for the Lord. It says they were earnest to participate in the grace of giving. They begged to participate. Those are the words used. Even though their gift was small in earthly terms, yet it was large in heavenly terms. They gave abundantly, from abundant hearts according to their means. Or as verse 12 puts it, a person gives “according what he has.” God has given us each different means. You know, we have different incomes. Or to put it differently, we fall in different tax brackets. No matter whether you have been given much to steward or little to steward, God calls you to be generous. And that generosity is a matter first of all according to your heart desire, and second of all, relative to your means. Now, in a few minutes, we'll get to the source of the heart motivation, which is the grace of God in Christ. I want to be clear about that. We'll get to what that means in a few minutes. The point of these opening verses is that the Macedonians modelled joyful heart-motivated giving. And in verse 7, the Corinthians are called to excel in their own giving, just like the Macedonians. Verse 7 says, “But as you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in all earnestness, and in our love for you—see that you excel in this act of grace also.” In other words, giving is a fundamental part of the Christian life. Just as we seek to grow in our faith, and be enriched in our knowledge of God and his word, and grow in our love that we give and receive, so also, we should excel in this “act of grace,” as it says, the grace of giving. 2. The Grace of Giving Received Which brings us to point 2. The grace of giving received. In the outline, you'll see two sub-points. That grace is received by the giver and received by the receiver. But let me ask, why do you think giving is called an act of grace? Is it an act of grace because the poor in Jerusalem received grace from the Macedonians? In other words, is it because when we give, we are the ones giving the grace? The answer is no! No, giving is God's act of grace in us. For the giver, God gives his grace which motivates the giving. Look at verse 1 again. “We want you to know, brothers, about [what?] …about the grace of God…” [clearly it is God's grace. now listen to what is says next] “…about the grace of God that has been given among the churches of Macedonia.” God has bestowed his grace which has resulted in their generosity. So, it is God's grace, and just like other areas of life where we experience God's grace, God blesses us through it. In the case of the Macedonians, God gave them a desire and he gave them joy. I want to make something very clear here. The act of giving itself does not result in blessing. Let me say that again. The act of giving itself does not result in blessing. Rather it's God's grace that blesses us… that happens when he turns our hearts to him and gives us a joyful desire to earnestly give. Now, some so-called pastors would strongly disagree. They would say that giving itself results in blessing. If you give, God will bless you with financial prosperity. Or they say he will bless you through other means. They turn giving into a transactional merit-based scheme. It's not about the grace of God, rather it is about manipulating people to donate. What it actually does is cover up God's grace in Christ. We sometimes we call this teaching the prosperity gospel. It is not the gospel. They say that if God is not prospering you financially, then you need to give more, or you need to trust in God more. Beloved, do not buy this false gospel. There is no place in the Bible that speaks of financial prosperity as God's will for you. Nor that when you give materially that you will reap materially. Rather, it says that generosity comes out of a heart disposition that loves the Lord. Verse 5 makes that priority very clear. Look at it. Verse 5. The Macedonians, it says, “gave themselves first to the Lord, then by the will of God, to us.” Meaning, they first trusted by faith in the grace of God in Christ, and then out of that grace, they gave an offering to Paul for the poor believers in Jerusalem. Now, I am not saying that there are no benefits to giving. What I am saying is that the benefits come through the changed heart that God gives us through his grace. In verse 10, Paul, talking about this grace motivated giving says, “this benefits you.” What are those spiritual benefits and blessings? Well, when God gives us an earnest heart-felt desire to give, God helps us to open the grip we have on our financial resources. God helps us to see that we are merely stewards of what he has given us. As you know, money is alluring and when we love our money, we replace God in our hearts with that false love. But when the transforming work of God's grace convicts us of that sin, we are blessed with joyful longing to participate in God's missions in the world through his church. Those blessings are indeed blessings… but they are not our motivation. Rather, God's grace motivates. It is what changes us. Let me put it this way. Giving is an act of worship. It is a response. That is why our offering is part of our worship service. In our giving, God is glorified, and we are blessed. And that is because God's grace enables us to worship, which includes our giving. And through that grace enabled worship, God builds us up in him. So, for the one who gives… giving is an act of God's grace which we receive. And the results of that grace are those motivations and spiritual blessings. Again, that's the giver part. But also, the receivers of the grace enabled gifts receive God's blessings. I think that is probably obvious. God bestows his blessing through giving to meet their needs. Verse 4 talks about the relief of the saints. It's talking about the Christians in Jerusalem. God used the generosity of the broader church to bring financial relief to these impoverished saints. Paul mentions that the Corinthians abundance would help supply their need. You see, it is God's grace through the gifts of his people that bless his people. There's a built-in illustration here. It's in verse 15. It says, “As it is written, ‘Whoever gathered much had nothing left over, and whoever gathered little had no lack.'” That reference comes from the book of Exodus. After God freed his people from slavery in Egypt, he brought them into the wilderness. But what would they eat? I mean, not much grows in the desert. Well, God provided bread from heaven – he provided Manna. Every day, God provided this daily sustenance. It was a miracle. Everyone gathered and there was no lack some gathered more, some gathered less. That's the quote. What God is saying in verse 15 is that the miraculous provision of manna in the Old Testament… is an example of how the gifts of the church provide for God's people in the New Testament. I find that amazingly encouraging. God now uses his people to support the needs of his people. In other words, God's act of grace and blessing to the receiver comes through giving. It parallels God's miraculous provision of the manna. You see, even though God's people are to give, it is still God's work – his grace. To summarize point 2, God's grace is given to the giver, which turns his heart to give. That results in God's provision and blessing to the receiver. It is all his act of grace – God's grace. 3. The Grace Behind the Grace of Giving Ok, that brings us to point number 3. The Grace Behind the Grace of Giving. I've already mentioned that it is God's grace in Christ – all of it. However, I haven't really clearly defined what that means. So, what I want you to now see is first, that God's grace in Christ is indeed the center of this text. And second, at that center, God clearly explains the grace of Christ. About once every year we come to a Scripture text… which has a unique underlying parallel structure. And we have one of those parallel structures this morning. So, you've heard me talk about it before. These parallels in the Greek move from the outside in. They move from the beginning and end and they work their way to the central focus of the text. They are very helpful because we are given the explicit driving emphasis that underlies it all. ·     On the very outside of this parallel are verses 2 and 14, which focus on abundance. That's the word. The Macedonians abundance of joy in verse 2 and then in verse 14, the word “abundance” is used two times. The abundance that the Corinthians are called to and which they will receive in times of need. Abundance. ·     The second layer is in verses 3 and 12. So we are moving in one layer. Giving should be according to someone's means – that's verse 3. And in verse 12, the same idea – giving should be according to what someone has. ·     The third layer is one more step in. Again, moving from the outside in - verses 6 and 11. In both is the call to complete the giving. In verse 6, Titus is called to complete the act of God's grace. And in verse 11, the Corinthians are also called to finish it. Paul says there, “completing it out of what you have.” ·     Do you see those parallels? Abundance – abundance; according to one's means – according to what someone has; complete it – complete it. And this whole parallel focuses our attention to the very heart of this passage, which is verse 9. “For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you by his poverty might become rich.” Even in that one verse, we see the same outward-in parallel. Rich, poor, poor rich. This is the focus. It is not talking about financial poverty and riches. No, it is talking about the mercy of God in Christ. Jesus Christ, though he was rich in the sense of displaying the fullness of God's glory as God the Son, yet he humbled himself. He became poor. He became a man, he endured the miseries of this life, he suffered and died. And he did all of that so that we in our poverty may become rich. In other words, in our fallenness, deserving of the punishment of damnation and hell, Jesus Christ has redeemed us. He has, through his death and resurrection, restored us to the riches of the presence of God. We, in Christ, are now clothed with the robes of his righteousness - exalted with him in his resurrection. We are indeed rich in that way. Friends, this is the grace of God in Christ Jesus – it is the Gospel, and it is the foundation to all the callings we are given in this life, including the call to be generous. We give because of the joy that we have in Christ, just like the Macedonians. We give out of thankfulness for what God has done for us in Christ. We give because others in Christ who have the same riches of God's grace have needs. We give to further and foster God's mission, which is to make known the riches and mercy of his grace. We give not out of human compulsion, nor do we give out of a sense of guilt, nor to somehow merit blessings. No. We give because God has graciously given us eternal riches in Jesus Christ. May God give us each the joy of the Gospel. And may he in turn, give us abundant joyful hearts to give generously, no matter our means. May we long and even beg to participate in this act of God's grace. All because Christ Jesus became poor for our sake… to take us out of our spiritual poverty and make us rich in his mercy. Amen

2 Corinthians 8:1-15 Intro: “Money” is a commodity; “giving” is bigger and broader than $. Background: Paul is writing to the church in Corinth and uses the church in Macedonia as an example. Titus had started this collection earlier (vs 6) Introduction 00:00 Sermon 36:26 - Pastor Joseph Thomas - Sunday, May 25, 2025

Sixth Sunday of Easter The First Lesson Acts 16:9-15 During the night Paul had a vision: there stood a man of Macedonia pleading with him and saying, "Come over to Macedonia and help us." When he had seen the vision, we immediately tried to cross over to Macedonia, being convinced that God had called us to proclaim the good news to them. We set sail from Troas and took a straight course to Samothrace, the following day to Neapolis, and from there to Philippi, which is a leading city of the district of Macedonia and a Roman colony. We remained in this city for some days. On the sabbath day we went outside the gate by the river, where we supposed there was a place of prayer; and we sat down and spoke to the women who had gathered there. A certain woman named Lydia, a worshiper of God, was listening to us; she was from the city of Thyatira and a dealer in purple cloth. The Lord opened her heart to listen eagerly to what was said by Paul. When she and her household were baptized, she urged us, saying, "If you have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come and stay at my home." And she prevailed upon us. The Psalm Psalm 67 Deus misereatur 1 May God be merciful to us and bless us, * show us the light of his countenance and come to us. 2 Let your ways be known upon earth, * your saving health among all nations. 3 Let the peoples praise you, O God; * let all the peoples praise you. 4 Let the nations be glad and sing for joy, * for you judge the peoples with equity and guide all the nations upon earth. 5 Let the peoples praise you, O God; * let all the peoples praise you. 6 The earth has brought forth her increase; * may God, our own God, give us his blessing. 7 May God give us his blessing, * and may all the ends of the earth stand in awe of him. The Epistle Revelation 21:10, 22-22:5 In the spirit the angel carried me away to a great, high mountain and showed me the holy city Jerusalem coming down out of heaven from God. I saw no temple in the city, for its temple is the Lord God the Almighty and the Lamb. And the city has no need of sun or moon to shine on it, for the glory of God is its light, and its lamp is the Lamb. The nations will walk by its light, and the kings of the earth will bring their glory into it. Its gates will never be shut by day-- and there will be no night there. People will bring into it the glory and the honor of the nations. But nothing unclean will enter it, nor anyone who practices abomination or falsehood, but only those who are written in the Lamb's book of life. Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, bright as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb through the middle of the street of the city. On either side of the river is the tree of life with its twelve kinds of fruit, producing its fruit each month; and the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations. Nothing accursed will be found there any more. But the throne of God and of the Lamb will be in it, and his servants will worship him; they will see his face, and his name will be on their foreheads. And there will be no more night; they need no light of lamp or sun, for the Lord God will be their light, and they will reign forever and ever. The Gospel John 14:23-29 Jesus said to Judas (not Iscariot), "Those who love me will keep my word, and my Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them. Whoever does not love me does not keep my words; and the word that you hear is not mine, but is from the Father who sent me. "I have said these things to you while I am still with you. But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything, and remind you of all that I have said to you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid. You heard me say to you, `I am going away, and I am coming to you.' If you loved me, you would rejoice that I am going to the Father, because the Father is greater than I. And now I have told you this before it occurs, so that when it does occur, you may believe."  

Acts 16:6-15They went through the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been forbidden by the Holy Spirit to speak the word in Asia. When they had come opposite Mysia, they attempted to go into Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus did not allow them; so, passing by Mysia, they went down to Troas. During the night Paul had a vision: there stood a man of Macedonia pleading with him and saying, ‘Come over to Macedonia and help us.' When he had seen the vision, we immediately tried to cross over to Macedonia, being convinced that God had called us to proclaim the good news to them.We set sail from Troas and took a straight course to Samothrace, the following day to Neapolis, and from there to Philippi, which is a leading city of the district* of Macedonia and a Roman colony. We remained in this city for some days. On the sabbath day we went outside the gate by the river, where we supposed there was a place of prayer; and we sat down and spoke to the women who had gathered there. A certain woman named Lydia, a worshipper of God, was listening to us; she was from the city of Thyatira and a dealer in purple cloth. The Lord opened her heart to listen eagerly to what was said by Paul. When she and her household were baptized, she urged us, saying, ‘If you have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come and stay at my home.' And she prevailed upon us. This weekend kicks off not only the start of summer for so many, but it also serves as the unofficial beginning of graduation season. In the office this week, I asked the question: what gift should you get a graduate? I told them about a friend's mom who would give monogrammed towels as her graduate gift. +Mark and Amanda informed me that I should not pick up that tradition. Money was the consensus, just get a card with some cash. I don't disagree, but I am warning you graduates now, I can almost guarantee that someone will give out a copy of the Dr. Suess classic, “Oh The Places You'll Go”. And it is a fitting tribute for the occasion:“ Congratulations! Today is your day. You're off to Great Places! You're off and away! You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose. You're on your own. And you know what you know. And YOU are the person who'll decide where to go.”It is a remarkable feeling, no? To be on the precipice of what comes next and then to set off on the journey. It is so exciting, perhaps a little frightening, if not for you, then for your parents or grandparents and other loved ones. Timothy likely felt this same way when he began his journey with Paul and Silas. In our text, the “they” we hear is in reference to those three Paul, Silas, and Timothy, maybe more. Timothy just joined the group. In the passage immediately before this, Paul and Silas stop in Lystra, where they hear about this young disciple named Timothy. Among believers in Lystra, Timothy is well spoken of. So Paul asks Timothy to join him on this mission. Timothy probably thought “oh the place I'll go”. And go they did, from town to town, the churches were growing, everything was great!That is until they came to Phrygia. Paul and crew want to go to Asia. They think, “that's where God is calling us to proclaim the Gospel. So that must be the right place for us.” So they went to turn left and head to Asia, but the Holy Spirit forbade them to go. That's strange… why would the Holy Spirit not let me go? And what does that even mean? Did a giant wind push against them every time they tried to turn left? Did their compass only point them east? However it happened, they couldn't go into Asia. So the crew thinks well what do you do when you can't turn left… you go right! And so they try to turn right and go to Bithynia, but the Holy Spirit doesn't allow that either. With no other options left, they go to Troas.If you are Timothy, you've got to wonder what went wrong? Everything was so good? We were going to all these places, the church was growing, we had a great plan! But just when everything seemed great, suddenly it wasn't anymore. Graduates, this will undoubtedly happen to you. Surely everyone gathered has had a time like that: when everything seemed to be going great, you thought you were doing what God wanted you to do, but suddenly your plans changed (or they were changed for you), and the roads you wanted to take became blocked. Maybe the major you'd hope for didn't work out. Or you didn't get that job you thought you always wanted or were let go of the job you loved. Maybe that relationship you never thought would end came to a close. Or an unexpected trip to the doctor makes you put everything on hold. Despite your best efforts you ended up in a place you never wanted to be. We've all been there. As Dr Suess says: “I'm sorry to say so but, sadly, it's true that Bang-ups and Hang-ups can happen to you. You can get all hung up, in a prickle-ly perch. And your gang will fly on. You'll be left in a Lurch. You'll come down from the Lurch with an unpleasant bump. And the chances are, then, that you'll be in a Slump. And when you're in a Slump, you're not in for much fun. Un-slumping yourself is not easily done.Yet, it is at those places you never wanted to be, in the times you least expect, that something will happen or someone will come and help and get you unslumped. For Timothy and crew their unslumping came from a vision that Paul had while in Troas: a man saying “Come to Macedonia and help us.” The three of them got up and immediately headed to Macedonia, “convinced that God had called them to proclaim the good news there”.They set sail from Troas, landed in Samothrace, and then came ashore at Neapolis. Neapolis is this wonderful little seaside town, the kind of place you want to land in, and maybe put down some roots; enjoy the sandy beaches and nice weather. I could imagine Timothy saying to Paul and Silas, “we don't really need to follow that vision, that dream, that call, right?” But Paul and his companions don't stop and stay there. It's nice, but they know it's not where they are supposed to be. You'll have your own Neapolis too, places and opportunities that seem really nice, the city or job or relationship you could see yourself in. And the temptation to stay will be strong, yet you'll know it's not right. Heed the voice, the vision, the calling God has placed on you. There will be a reason you move on, even if it is not clear in the moment.Finally Paul, Timothy, and Silas land in Philippi, even though that was not the original goal. Remember Paul wanted to spread the Gospel and grow the church in Asia. But listen to how this part of Paul's mission ends. On the sabbath they all go to the river, hoping to find people praying. They join a group of women and among them is Lydia, likely a wealthy business woman with great influence. She listened eagerly to Paul, had herself and her whole family baptized, and then opened her home to Paul and Timothy and Silas. Lydia is from Thyatria, which is in Asia, the very place Paul hoped to spread the gospel in the first place. Through all the travels, the wrong turns, and the change of plans, Paul does in fact fulfill his mission of growing the church in Asia, just not where and how he expected too.Despite our best efforts, God's calling and leading come through mistaken directions and failed attempts, which can certainly be frustrating and make discernment difficult.We'd like to think “we are the one's who decide where to go”. As Dr/ Seuss puts it. But that's where he's wrong. As Paul, Timothy and Silas attest, it is an illusion to think it's all up to us. God is in charge of the journey you're on. At times, it won't look the way you want or lead to the places you'd hoped. But thankfully Jesus promises us an Advocate, the Holy Spirit, that helps us in discernment and guides us to where we need to go, what we need to do, and who we should meet along the way. For Paul and Timothy, the journey nor the destination were likely what the team imagined. The wandering, the rejection, the vision in a dream, and the people they met. They did not expect a woman, that wasnt what the vision showed. Yet, in the end God's will was done, not their own, which is what we all pray for.Graduates/young people, it's okay if your journey in life looks like this. Parents/grandparents, it's okay if your young person's journey looks like this. God is still at work in the mess of it all. The reality for not just graduates but for all of us is our own journeys will be less like us deciding the places we go, and more like the wanderings of Paul and the rest: ending up in places we didn't expect, receiving direction in ways we didn't anticipate, and meeting people we never predicted, but trusting that God is still leading.“Plans are made. Plans come apart.” Says Kate Bowler, “New delights or tragedies pop up in their place. And nothing human or divine will map out this life, this life that has been more painful than I could have imagined. More beautiful than I could have imagined.”Amen.

A Triumphant Church Supports the Ministry 1 Corinthians 16:1-24 16 Now concerning the collection for the saints: as I directed the churches of Galatia, so you also are to do. 2 On the first day of every week, each of you is to put something aside and store it up, as he may prosper, so that there will be no collecting when I come. 3 And when I arrive, I will send those whom you accredit by letter to carry your gift to Jerusalem. 4 If it seems advisable that I should go also, they will accompany me. 5 I will visit you after passing through Macedonia, for I intend to pass through Macedonia, 6 and perhaps I will stay with you or even spend the winter, so that you may help me on my journey, wherever I go. 7 For I do not want to see you now just in passing. I hope to spend some time with you, if the Lord permits. 8 But I will stay in Ephesus until Pentecost, 9 for a wide door for effective work has opened to me, and there are many adversaries. 10 When Timothy comes, see that you put him at ease among you, for he is doing the work of the Lord, as I am. 11 So let no one despise him. Help him on his way in peace, that he may return to me, for I am expecting him with the brothers. 12 Now concerning our brother Apollos, I strongly urged him to visit you with the other brothers, but it was not at all his will to come now. He will come when he has opportunity. 13 Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. 14 Let all that you do be done in love. 15 Now I urge you, brothers—you know that the household of Stephanas were the first converts in Achaia, and that they have devoted themselves to the service of the saints— 16 be subject to such as these, and to every fellow worker and laborer. 17 I rejoice at the coming of Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicus, because they have made up for your absence, 18 for they refreshed my spirit as well as yours. Give recognition to such people. 19 The churches of Asia send you greetings. Aquila and Prisca, together with the church in their house, send you hearty greetings in the Lord. 20 All the brothers send you greetings. Greet one another with a holy kiss. 21 I, Paul, write this greeting with my own hand. 22 If anyone has no love for the Lord, let him be accursed. Our Lord, come! 23 The grace of the Lord Jesus be with you. 24 My love be with you all in Christ Jesus. Amen. I. Supporting the Ministry Gives with Purpose II. Supporting the Ministry Promotes Community III. Supporting the Ministry Perseveres in the Faith IV. Supporting the Ministry Unifies the Body of Christ

14Yet it was kind of youto share[a]my trouble.15And you Philippians yourselves know thatin the beginning of the gospel, when I left Macedonia,no church entered into partnership with me in giving and receiving, except you only.16Even in Thessalonica you sent me help for my needs once and again.17Not that I seek the gift, but I seekthe fruit that increases to your credit.[b]18I have received full payment, and more. I am well supplied,having received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent,a fragrant offering,a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God.19And my Godwill supply every need of yoursaccording to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.20Toour God and Father beglory forever and ever. Amen. 21Greet every saint in Christ Jesus.The brothers who are with me greet you.22All the saints greet you, especially those of Caesar's household. 23The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.

Paul is directed by the Holy Spirit to proclaim the Gospel in Macedonia. (Lectionary #290) May 24, 2025 - Cathedral Rectory - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com  

SÁBADO 24 DE MAYO DE 2025 TU DOSIS DIARIA DE ESPERANZA “Como te rogué que te quedases en Éfeso, cuando fui a Macedonia, para que mandases a algunos que no enseñen diferente doctrina, ni presten atención a fábulas y genealogías interminables, que acarrean disputas más bien que edificación de Dios que es por fe, así te encargo ahora.” (1Timoteo 1:3-4) El apóstol Pablo deseaba que su esfuerzo como siervo de Dios le sirviera a su discípulo Timoteo como ejemplo a imitar. Para cuando la iglesia de Éfeso comenzó a recibir gente con ideas contrarias a la fe cristiana, Timoteo fue enviado a poner en orden el caos. Es cuando vemos cuánto Timoteo había madurado en fe, conocimiento y carácter. Estar bajo la cobertura de un siervo como el apóstol, sumado a un testimonio de amor a Dios y su obra, hicieron de Timoteo un hombre de Dios y ejemplo de los creyentes. Cuando se trata de ver siervos maduros en acción, sin duda, Timoteo es uno. El legado de Pablo dio fruto en abundancia. Aprendamos del apóstol a pensar en el futuro de la Iglesia. (Gina Sánchez) -- Te damos la bienvenida a nuestras reflexiones diarias. Cada día leemos y meditamos en una porción bíblica, para encontrar revelación de Dios que encamine nuestros pasos y haga próspero nuestro camino. Esto es… DE DIOS, PARA TI, HOY. ....... http://www.findnewhope.com/nueva-esperanza ....... www.facebook.com/PastoresRobertoyYamiley ....... Pastores Roberto y Yamiley, De Dios Para Ti Hoy - New Hope en Español , Brandon, FL (813) 689-4161

News items read by Laura Kennedy include: New study of obsidian artifacts in Mexico points to large Mesoamerican trading network (details)(details) Research team uncovers diversity of pregnancy depictions among Viking age communities (details)(details) Excavation of new ancient relief depicts last great Assyrian king (details) Scientific analysis undermines hypothesis behind burial place of Macedonia's Phillip II (details)(details)

In this powerful session, Rick and Doc examine Paul's reflections on mission delays, his longing for fellowship, and his commitment to supporting the saints in Jerusalem. They highlight Paul's perseverance despite hindrances—whether from Satan, divine timing, or life itself—and his desire for rest and support from the Roman believers on his journey to Spain. The discussion emphasizes the tension between calling and community, the responsibility to support gospel work financially, and the blessings of spiritual reciprocity. The hosts draw modern parallels, reminding viewers that the path of ministry may involve detours, but obedience and persistence glorify God.Rick Wiles, Doc Burkhart. Airdate 5/14/25You can partner with us by visiting FaithandValues.com, calling 1-800-576-2116, or by mail at PO Box 399 Vero Beach, FL 32961.Get high-quality emergency preparedness food today from American Reserves!AmericanReserves.comIt's the Final Day! The day Jesus Christ bursts into our dimension of time, space, and matter. Now available in eBook and audio formats! Order Final Day from Amazon today!Amazon.com/Final-DayApple users, you can download the audio version on Apple Books!books.apple.com/final-dayPurchase the 4-part DVD set or start streaming Sacrificing Liberty today.Sacrificingliberty.comThe Fauci Elf is a hilarious gift guaranteed to make your friends laugh! Order yours today!Trunews/faucielf

Blerim Skoro is a Kosovo-born former CIA operative whose life took a dramatic turn after deserting the Yugoslav army in the 1990s. Arriving in New York as an asylum seeker, Skoro's journey led him from a drug trafficking conviction to becoming a key informant for the FBI and CIA post-9/11. Posing as a radicalized Islamist, he infiltrated al-Qaeda networks in the Balkans, Middle East, and Pakistan, providing critical intelligence. His covert work ended after a 2010 shooting in Macedonia, when the CIA severed ties, leaving him with minimal compensation. Facing deportation in 2016, Skoro's story, detailed in the documentary The Accidental Spy, highlights the perils of espionage and abandonment by his handlers. Shawn Ryan Show Sponsors: ⁠https://www.tryarmra.com/srs⁠ ⁠https://www.identityguard.com/srs⁠ ⁠https://www.betterhelp.com/srs⁠ This episode is sponsored by Better Help. Give online therapy a try at ⁠betterhelp.com/srs⁠ and get on your way to being your best self. ⁠https://www.blackbuffalo.com⁠ ⁠https://www.boncharge.com/srs⁠ ⁠https://www.meetfabric.com/shawn⁠ ⁠https://www.shawnlikesgold.com⁠ ⁠https://www.helixsleep.com/srs⁠ ⁠https://www.hillsdale.edu/srs⁠ ⁠https://www.patriotmobile.com/srs⁠ ⁠https://www.rocketmoney.com/srs Blerim Skoro Links: Check out the documentary The Accidental Spy coming soon!  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C2xOkWvXkIQ (Film trailer) For sales or screening queries, please contact the film's producer, Johnny Howorth johnnyhoworth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices