Podcasts about main points

We should desire to be like Jesus in our values, beliefs, character, and behavior. The only way we can be imitators of God is that we would follow him. We must come to know Him. We must learn from Him, and it's only then that we will know what to imitate.Main Points:1. In some ways, we cannot be like God. You and I will never be all-knowing or all-powerful. We will never be omnipresent. We cannot be unchangeable like God. But there are characteristics of God that we can emulate. 2. We can imitate His characteristics like love, kindness, forgiveness, generosity, patience, grace, and mercy. We can be like God by living in purity, righteousness, and holiness. 3. To imitate God means that we follow his example, and we should follow it closely. When we were born again, we entered into his family. We belong to God, and we bear his name.Today's Scripture Verses:Ephesians 5:1 - “Therefore be imitators of God as dear children.”Romans 12:2 NLT - "Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God's will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.”Ephesians 4:13 - "...“become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ” Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

From being told he wouldn't graduate high school to starring in Tulsa King, producing 21 films, and directing 10, James Quattrochi is living proof that relentless discipline, faith, and self-belief can turn any obstacle into an opportunity. In this powerful conversation, James shares his incredible journey, which includes overcoming severe dyslexia, breaking into acting with Goodfellas, discovering spirituality through loneliness, and carving out a career as an actor, producer, and director. Along the way, he opens up about personal struggles, near-death experiences, betrayal in Hollywood, and the love that has fueled his staying power for 33 years in the industry. Whether you're chasing dreams in Hollywood or simply trying to rise above life's setbacks, this episode is packed with hard-earned wisdom, wild stories, and spiritual insight you won't forget. What You'll Learn:

When we come to Jesus and make Him our Savior and Lord, he begins to work in our lives and strips away old ways of living that conflict with scripture and dishonor the Lord. Through the Word of God, He teaches us a new way of living. As we break with the old sinful patterns and habits, we form new ones that please God, but also give joy.Main Points:1. It's through the power of the Holy Spirit that we can break the patterns of the world that we have lived by for so long. Now, through Jesus, we can be transformed, and this transformation takes place by a renewal in our minds.2. In today's culture, we sometimes talk about habits in their negative connotation. We'll say, I'm struggling to break some bad habits.” But what if you could form some new habits? What if you and I developed some holy habits? What if we created some habits that helped us grow spiritually?3. Remember, there is a difference between behaviors and habits. Anyone is capable of a particular behavior from time to time, but a habit is done instinctively and consistently. How do we develop a habit? Through regular repetition. As we do so consistently, the behavior becomes a regular and almost involuntary part of our lives.Today's Scripture Verses:Romans 12:2  - “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook GroupLoren Hicks on Instagram

It's so important to remember the Lord's faithfulness. In our times of anxiety, fear, and discouragement, the remembrance of what God has done brings peace to our souls.Main Points:1. When it comes to what the Lord has done for us, we cannot forget. Repeatedly throughout scripture, we are called to remember what the Lord has done.2. Decides to remember God. A strategy for fighting discouragement and doubt, and darkness is remembering, pondering, and meditating on the deeds, wonders, and works of God.3. If you are struggling with discouragement, grab a sheet of paper and a pen and begin to write down what God has done for you. Remember his blessings. Remember his faithfulness. Remembering will bring hope into your soul.Today's Scripture Verses:1 Chronicles 16:11-12 - “Look to the Lord and his strength; seek his face always.  Remember the wonders he has done, his miracles, and the judgments he pronounced.”Psalm 77:7-9 - “Will the Lord reject forever?    Will he never show his favor again?Has his unfailing love vanished forever?    Has his promise failed for all time?Has God forgotten to be merciful?    Has he in anger withheld his compassion?”Psalm 77:10-12 - "Then I thought, “To this I will appeal:    the years when the Most High stretched out his right hand.I will remember the deeds of the Lord;    yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago.I will consider all your works    and meditate on all your mighty deeds.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook GroupLoren Hicks on Instagram

What do you do when your big plan crashes and burns? In this raw and fired-up solo episode, Kelly Siegel shares his most personal stories of failure and the exact blueprint he uses to turn setbacks into massive comebacks. From losing a $2M client to battling alcohol addiction, Kelly shows why failure isn't the end. It's feedback. You'll discover the 4-step process to pause, pivot, and power your way into a stronger, more aligned Plan B. Whether you're facing a business collapse, a personal breakdown, or a dream gone sideways, this episode will help you find the lesson, own the pivot, and rise stronger than ever. What You'll Learn in This Episode:

We must have a desire for the Scripture. It's through the pages of the Bible that we come to know the author. My prayer is that we would develop a hunger for the Word of God, because we have a hunger to know God personally.Main Points:1. If it's true that the majority of Christians are not reading and learning from the Word of God regularly, there must be a deficiency in our discipleship. Our spiritual growth is stunted. We are not being changed into Christ-likeness. We are not growing as God would intend.2. If today, you find yourself with little desire for the Word of God, there are some things you can do. First, you can pray. Admit to God what's in your heart. Begin to ask God every day to give you a hunger and delight for Scripture.3. I believe God will develop in us a hunger for His Word. We'll begin to experience a taste and a craving for the Scripture because our time with God is satisfying and nourishing. Today's Scripture Verses:2 Peter 2:1-3 - “Therefore, rid yourselves of all malice and all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander of every kind. Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation, now that you have tasted that the Lord is good.Psalm 119:97 - “Oh, how I love your law!  I meditate on it all day long.”Psalm 119:18 - “Open my eyes that I may behold wondrous things out of your law.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook GroupLoren Hicks on Instagram

What a powerful promise! The blood of Jesus cleanses us from ALL sin. It's not a partial cleaning, no, the blood of Jesus cleanses us from all sin. Isn't this amazing? We can be fully forgiven and completely cleansed of our sin, because of Jesus' death and his blood shed for us. The blood of Jesus Christ paid the penalty for all our sins – past, present, and future.Main Points:1. It might seem strange to someone who is not a Christian that we as believers talk about, and even sing about, the blood of Jesus. After all, blood is often considered an uncomfortable subject.2. But the reason we are grateful for the blood of Jesus is because of its power. Yes, there is power in the blood of Jesus. It has the power to cleanse us from our sins.3. God wouldn't be just if he winked at our sin, or swept it under the rug. No, justice had to be met. Compelled by his great love for us, Jesus steps in and pays the awful penalty for us. He gave his life for us. He shed his blood for us.Today's Scripture Verses:Ephesians 1:7 - “In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace.”1 John 1:7 - “But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin.”John 1:29 - “The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook GroupLoren Hicks on Instagram

Ever feel like you're running full throttle but still not in sync with yourself? In this deeply calming and inspiring conversation, Kelly Siegel sits down with Rubina CDA, a mindfulness leader, trauma-informed educator, and CEO of Inner Design. Rubina fuses breathwork, human design, and artistic expression to help high performers, artists, and students reset stress, reconnect with their inner rhythm, and unlock their full creative potential. From practical breath techniques to redefining creativity, Rubina shows how slowing down, practicing mindfulness, and aligning with your natural rhythm can actually enhance peak performance. Whether you're a CEO, artist, or just someone looking for peace in the chaos, this episode will leave you with tools and a whole lot of calm energy you can use right away. Key Takeaways:

Ben and Nate break down the measurable cost of applying late in the law school admissions cycle. Your LSAT score has the most value on the day that applications open. By rushing your LSAT or applying late in the cycle, you sacrifice points and leave money on the table. With AI poised to disrupt the legal market, it's more important than ever to go to law school for free. ⁠Study with our Free plan⁠⁠Download our iOS app⁠⁠Watch Episode 521 on YouTube⁠0:32 – AI Making Law School Obsolete?Ben and Nate discuss an article from a former Google exec claiming AI will make law and medical degrees obsolete. The guys acknowledge that AI is improving, but it still makes mistakes. While they agree that a law degree isn't a guaranteed gravy train, they also note that the law itself is a barrier to modernization, which will slow AI's impact on legal education. The schools most at risk are bottom feeders churning out lawyers for grunt work. Their advice: don't pay tuition at weak schools.14:50 – LSAT Suspended in Mainland ChinaLSAC halts testing in China after evidence of cheating. A Reddit post earlier this year even advertised cheating services. While tough for honest test takers in China, applicants should appreciate LSAC's effort to safeguard exam security.24:03 – Cost of Delaying AppsHow late is too late? While early applications are stronger, it's never worth rushing the LSAT. The best strategy is to get your best LSAT and then apply at the start of the next cycle. A University of Chicago Journal of Law and Economics article finds that delays weaken applications. Waiting 100 days is equivalent to dropping 2.1 LSAT points or 0.26 GPA points. Schools review applications in waves, and the earliest applicants are often the strongest. Missing the first wave, even by a day, can carry measurable costs.Dynamic Decision-Making under Rolling Admissions: Evidence from US Law School Applications47:43 – Main Point vs. SummaryA summary lists information, but a main point answers “why.” It's what the author is trying to convince you of, not just what they said.52:31 – Doing LR BackwardsListener Blair wants to work backward in Logical Reasoning to combat fatigue. Ben and Nathan's answer: If you're scoring under 175, you shouldn't be finishing sections anyway, so working backward means skipping easier questions to do harder ones. If you're at 175 or above, then fatigue isn't an issue.59:28 – Score PlateausListeners Trevor and Ireland feel stuck. The guys caution against chasing a single breakthrough. Progress comes from carefully reviewing and learning from every mistake, one question at a time.1:04:42 – Personal Statement Gong ShowListener Elena is the next Gong Show contestant. Ben and Nathan read her personal statement until they reach an unforgivable mistake—they then ring the gong. The record is 34 lines, set by listener Sophia.Want in? Send in your statement by September 1, 2025, to be considered for the Gong Super Show. 1:07:20 - Word of the Week - TruismThe standard advice about writing is mostly truisms, like “Make a plan,” “Don't use the passive,” or “Think of your audience.” Get caught up with our ⁠Word of the Week⁠⁠ library. 

Have you ever felt like you were on an emotional treadmill?  Our lives are going faster and faster, and we don't know how to slow them down.  I meet people who say to me, “Pastor Loren, I am running on fumes.  I'm on empty.  I can't go much further.”  Life has a way of draining us.  If you don't stay closely connected to Jesus, our source of life, you will eventually find yourself empty.  Main Points:1. If today your tank is on empty, if you find yourself depleted, just like Elijah, the Lord wants you to rest. Physical rest is essential, but so is spiritual and emotional rest. 2. There is a refreshing that can come from the Lord. Make time to worship, to listen for His still, small voice, and be encouraged by his faithful presence. 3. If you are spiritually and emotionally in a wilderness place, remember you are not alone. God is right there with you. Ask him to restore you, refill you, and replenish your soul. He is not done with you yet.Today's Scripture Verses:1 Kings 19:4 - “He came to a broom bush, sat down under it and prayed that he might die. “I have had enough, Lord,” he said. “Take my life; I am no better than my ancestors.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook GroupLoren Hicks on Instagram

Will disciplining children for tantrums and outbursts damage their willingness to share feelings and communicate openly? Discover four biblical principles that show how proper discipline actually strengthens rather than harms parent-child relationships.TIMESTAMPS0:00 - Introduction: The Heart of a Torn Parent1:09 - The Core Question About Discipline and Relationship1:33 - Principle 1: Spankings Are Not the Only Thing We Do2:57 - Principle 2: Spankings Are for Sin, Not Feelings3:31 - Clarifying What We Punish vs. What We Discuss4:21 - Teaching Children to Identify Their Sin5:15 - Principle 3: Discipline Is Parental Obedience to God5:39 - Proverbs 13:24 - Love Disciplines Diligently6:31 - Building Character Through Parental Integrity6:57 - Principle 4: Spanking Is Not the Last Step7:45 - The Lambert House Rule: Don't Leave Angry8:22 - Ending Discipline with Prayer, Grace, and Restoration8:44 - When Discipline Goes Wrong vs. RightMAIN POINTS- Spankings Are Not the Only Thing We DoPhysical correction should be a very small percentage of overall parenting time. Parents who discipline have earned that right through much larger investments of positive relationship building. - Discipline is placed within a broader context of love and care throughout daily life.- Spankings Are for Sin, Not Feelings or PreferencesChildren should never be punished for having feelings, needing to talk, or making mistakes. - Discipline is specifically for sin - violations of God's law. Parents must clearly communicate the difference between emotions that need discussion and sinful behaviors that require correction.- Discipline Is Parental Obedience That Models IntegrityFollowing Proverbs 13:24, parents demonstrate love through diligent discipline. This shows children that parents have integrity and follow God's commands, building rather than undermining confidence in the parent-child relationship over a lifetime.- Discipline Should End with Restoration, Not AngerThe Lambert house rule was to never leave discipline sessions angry. After confession, forgiveness, and correction, the process should end with prayer, grace, and often laughter and affection. The goal is restoring the relationship broken by sin through faithfulness to God's Word.SCRIPTURE REFERENCESPrimary Passages:Proverbs 13:24 - Whoever spares the rod hates his son, but he who loves him is diligent to discipline himSupporting Context:Proverbs 22:15 - Folly is bound up in the heart of a childProverbs 23:13-14 - Do not withhold discipline from a childHebrews 12:5-11 - God disciplines those he lovesEphesians 6:1-4 - Children obey parents; fathers don't provoke to angerDeuteronomy 6:6-7 - Teaching children diligentlyColossians 3:21 - Fathers, do not embitter your childrenHave a question you'd like answered? Send it to markedbygrace@fbcjax.com

Big Idea: Authenticity is living honorably, submitting humbly, and enduring like Christ. Main Points: 1. Authentic Believers Live Honorably Before the World 2. Authentic Believers Submit for the Lord's Sake 3. Authentic Believers Suffer Like Christ Life Applications: - Choose integrity over image in every area of your life. - Practice humble submission as a witness to others. - Reflect Christ in every trial by responding with grace.

Whether it's your coffee pot, your phone, your computer, or your car, power is necessary for each of these essentials to operate. It's the same in the Christian life. You need power. God does not intend for us to live powerless Christian lives. In fact, He promised to provide the power we need to live victorious over sin and to be effective in our calling and purpose.Main Points:1. After Jesus' resurrection, He spent 40 days with His disciples. It was during these conversations that he gave them their marching orders. It was His instructions for their lives, after He would ascend back to the Father. These instructions are found in Matthew 28:19-20, and we call them “The Great Commission.”But before getting started, these Christ-followers would need power. The task God had for their lives was too large. In and of themselves, they would be incapable of obeying the command of Jesus to make disciples of all nations.2. As much as they had already been prepared for their mission, there was still something missing. They needed God's power. So do I. So do you.3. Thankfully, God has promised to give us the Holy Spirit. This power of the Holy Spirit is not just for some Christians. It's for every Christian, and it's been promised. Our God is a promise-keeper. Today's Scripture Verses:Acts 1:8 - “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you…”Luke 24:49 - “I am going to send you what my Father has promised; but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high.”Acts 1:4-5 - “On one occasion, while he was eating with them, he gave them this command: “Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about. For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.” Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Nothing we can do for people is more important than leading them to the Savior who can forgive their sins.  We must do whatever it takes to bring our family and friends to Jesus.Main Points:1.  One thing that is constant in all of our stories is that someone brought us to Jesus. We were brought through a personal witness, a sermon, a gospel tract, or a video, but God used a person to bring us to Jesus.2. There are people in your sphere of influence that you can bring to Jesus. There are people who listen to you and who respect you. Bring them to Jesus. 3. Which friends, family members, neighbors, or co-workers can you bring to Jesus?Today's Scripture Verses:Mark 2:4 - “Since they could not get him to Jesus because of the crowd, they made an opening in the roof above Jesus by digging through it and then lowered the mat the man was lying on.”Mark 2:5 - “When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralyzed man, “Son, your sins are forgiven.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Are you giving everything to your business, team, or family and feeling like you've got nothing left for yourself? In this raw and powerful solo episode, Kelly Siegel shares the exact blueprint for leading with impact while staying true to who you are. From his own burnout as a CEO to his wake-up call in 2020, Kelly takes you through the habits, mindset shifts, and leadership practices that transformed his life and will transform yours. This isn't about surviving leadership…it's about thriving in it. You'll learn the 3 non-negotiable practices that keep your energy high, your purpose clear, and your leadership on fire without sacrificing your health, relationships, or happiness. What You'll Learn in This Episode:

What an amazing truth this is! Our Heavenly Father has lavished his love on us. The word “lavished” refers to something generous or extravagant. God has been extremely generous in His love for us. So much so that He has adopted us into His family and He now calls us His children. We are the children of God.Main Points:1. Because of our past sins, failures, and mistakes, we may feel as if we are unloveable and unworthy of God's love. In and of ourselves, we are unworthy of his love. We can't earn, merit, or ever deserve the love of God. You might even think, “Why would God love someone like me.”2. Here is the good news: Jesus makes us worthy. It is Jesus who gives us access to the Father's love. In fact, there is no other way. Jesus opens the door to a relationship with the Father. It is here that we become the children of God. 3. Let this truth fill your heart and mind today: You are loved deeply by your Heavenly Father.Today's Scripture Verses:1 John 3:1 - “See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!”John 1:12 - “To all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.”1 John 4:19 - “We love because He first loved us.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Simple faith. Child-like faith. We must come to God with this same simplicity and sincerity. Just as a child can have complete faith in the protection and provision of their parents, so we must come to God with such faith. We must completely believe that Jesus is the Son of God and the he alone can save us from our sins.Main Points:1. Let's think for a minute what characteristics little children possess when it comes to faith. They are innocent and sincere. They're eager to learn. They are teachable, humble, trusting, open, simple, and spontaneous. They are unpretentious.2. It's my prayer that as adults, we could develop this assurance in God. As a child has assurance of the love of their parents, couldn't we develop assurance of our Heavenly Father's love? Couldn't we find assurance of our salvation and forgiveness of sins? Could we also obtain assurance of God's care, provision, and protection? Could we lay our head on our pillow at night with assurance in our hearts, knowing that if we passed in the night we have the promise of eternal life?3. We spend our days stressed out, worried, anxious, afraid, frustrated, and even angry. Surely this is not God's will for the lives of his children. Let's come back to simple trust and childlike faith in a God who is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Today's Scripture Verses:Matthew 18:1-3 - “At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Who, then, is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?”  He called a little child to him, and placed the child among them. And he said: “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

As Christians, we put the future in God's hands. We cannot predict the future. We don't know what will happen tomorrow. Many will choose to worry about the future, but instead, we can choose to trust our Heavenly Father. We trust His will, His plan, and His purpose for our lives. Main Points:1.  Tomorrow is on our minds. It's likely you are thinking about the future as it relates to your family, your health, your finances, your retirement, your work, and your ministry. What does tomorrow hold? What will the future be like?2. Planning our future gives us a sense of comfort and control. It's not wrong for us to plan and prepare for tomorrow, but we cannot leave God out of our planning. Why? Because He is the only one who truly knows what tomorrow brings. 3. As we look to tomorrow and our future, let's be quick to consult God and ask Him to show us His will. Ask Him to lead, guide, and direct your steps. Pray and ask the Lord to show you His will concerning every aspect of your life. Let's return to the verbiage of believers in a previous generation and say, “if it is the Lord's will."Today's Scripture Verses:James 4:13-16 - “Now listen, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.” Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, “If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that.” As it is, you boast in your arrogant schemes. All such boasting is evil.”Proverbs 27:1 - “Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

This Sunday Pastor Jesse shared how we need to not fear what Jesus has already defeated for us.   Main Points & Scripture: 2 Kings 7:3-8 2 Kings 7:9-10 Point 1: Don't Fear What Jesus Has Defeated Luke 10:18-19 1 Corinthians 15:54-57 Romans 8:37 Romans 16:20 Revelation 12:11 Revelation 17:14 Revelation 20:10 Colossians 1 Romans 8:1 1 Peter 5:8-9 Point 2: Don't Starve When Surrounded By Food 2 Kings 7:3-4 Point 3: Share the Good News, Don't Hoard It   *This episode was recorded on 08/17/25

My prayer for you today is that you will let nothing move you. Remain steadfast. Stand firm in the truth. When others compromise their beliefs and when others crumble under the pressure to water down the truth, I pray you will remain strong for Christ.Main Points:1.  “Will we stand and will we remain unmoved in our faith, our beliefs, and our biblical convictions? 2. Just continue. Continue to preach the gospel. Continue to stand for truth and righteousness. Continue to pray and seek the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. Continue to believe in God to move in your generation. Just keep going in those things which you are convinced of.3. Continue in the truth you know and hold dear. Remember, times change, but God's Word remains the same.Today's Scripture Verses:2 Timothy 3:14 - “But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it…”“Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” (1 Corinthians 15:58)Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Loving the world will result in losing our first love. When this happens, we begin to buy into the world's value systems and eventually, our lives do not reflect Christ; they will reflect the world.Main Points:1.  When we meet Christ, one thing that fundamentally changes is what we love. Before we met Jesus, our primary love was ourselves, but we also loved the things of this present world. But when we met Jesus, things began to change. We discovered a better love.2. Loving the world means being devoted to the world's treasures, philosophies, and priorities. God tells His children to set their priorities according to His eternal value system. We are to “seek first” God's kingdom and righteousness.3. The problem with loving the world is that it conflicts with what is to be our first love. Jesus is to be our first love. Why? He alone is worthy of such love and devotion. In Revelation chapter two, we learn the Ephesian church was commended for their hard work and perseverance, yet they were warned because they had lost their first love.Today's Scripture Verses:1 John 2:15 - “Do not love this world nor the things it offers you, for when you love the world, you do not have the love of the Father in you.”Romans 12:2 - “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind…”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Today, everyone has natural faith. You step onto an elevator without any thought of its braking system. You fly on an airplane and you sit in a chair, both require natural faith. But to be born again, you must have saving faith. To be forgiven of your sins and to be in a right relationship with God, you must have saving faith.Main Points:1. Hebrews 11:6 tells us faith is an essential component of our relationship with God. Without faith, we cannot please God, and we cannot experience the fullness of His blessings in our lives.2. So, what exactly is faith? The Bible defines faith as "the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen" (Hebrews 11:1). In other words, faith is the confident assurance that what we hope for will actually happen, even though we cannot see it with our physical eyes.3. Having faith requires us to believe in God's existence, His love for us, and His ability to do what He has promised. It means trusting in His character and His word, even when circumstances suggest otherwise. It means putting our full confidence in Him and His plan for our lives.Today's Scripture Verses:Hebrews 11:6 - “And without faith, it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.”Ephesians 2:8 - “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God.”2 Corinthians 5:7 - “For we walk by faith, not by sight.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Jesus is telling us that while God can do great things with small faith, our faith doesn't have to stay small. It can grow. In fact, it's God's will for your faith to grow. A mustard seed can grow to become a strong, tall tree. So it is with your faith. The more you trust God, the more you will experience his power. The result is greater faith.Main Points:1. Faith is essential for the Christian. In fact, you cannot become a Christian without faith. Christianity is not just about knowledge and good works. It is about faith.2. You and I have a measure of faith. Right now, it may feel as if your faith is quite small. The question is: What will you do with the faith you possess? Will you exercise your faith? Will you believe God? Will you use the faith you have been given?3. Our struggle is often the refusal to exercise our faith. We don't use the faith we have. Internally, we know God can do things. We read the Bible and we see his amazing power. We also hear the stories of how God works in people's lives today. So, our struggle is usually not with God's ability. Our struggle is with God's willingness. We know he can, but we doubt he will.Today's Scripture Verses:Hebrews 11:6 - “And without faith, it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.”Matthew 17:19-20 - “Then the disciples came to Jesus in private and asked, “Why couldn't we drive it out?” He replied, “Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Pastor Heath Lambert tackles a crucial theological question: Was Jesus tempted, and what does that mean? Discover the difference between external and internal temptation, and how understanding these distinctions helps us comprehend how Jesus could be "tempted in every way as we are, yet without sin."TIMESTAMPS0:00 - Introduction: The Question About Jesus' Temptation0:49 - What Is Temptation? The Basic Question1:32 - Type 1: External Temptation (Tempting Situations)1:40 - Example: Stack of $100 Bills in Empty Room2:27 - Type 2: Internal Temptation (Spiritual Corruption)2:42 - James 1:14: Lured and Enticed by Own Desire3:45 - How External and Internal Temptations Connect4:00 - Personal Examples: Tofu Salad vs. Blueberry Muffin4:25 - The Key Difference: Situational vs. Spiritual4:53 - Jesus Was Tempted: Matthew 4:1 Evidence5:15 - Hebrews 4:15: Tempted in Every Way, Yet Without Sin6:01 - James 1:13: God Cannot Be Tempted with Evil6:19 - The Solution: Two Kinds of Temptation Applied to Jesus7:00 - How Jesus Faced External Without Internal CorruptionMAIN POINTS- Two Kinds of TemptationExternal temptation consists of tempting situations or circumstances (like finding money when alone), while internal temptation involves corrupt cravings and sinister desires within the heart. External temptation becomes spiritually significant only when it meets internal corruption.- External Temptation Is Situational, Not Necessarily SinfulBeing in a potentially tempting situation isn't inherently wrong. The sinfulness comes from the internal response - the corrupt desire that matches up with the external opportunity. Different people are tempted by different external circumstances based on their internal desires.- Jesus Faced All External TemptationsScripture clearly states that Jesus was "tempted in every way as we are" (Hebrews 4:15) and was "led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil" (Matthew 4:1). Every potentially tempting situation that exists confronted Jesus during His earthly ministry.- Jesus Had No Internal CorruptionThough Jesus faced all external temptations, He had no internal corruption or sinful desires to match them. His heart was always trusting in the Lord and wanting to do righteousness. This is why He could be tempted externally yet remain "without sin" - there was no internal spiritual corruption to respond to the external circumstances.SCRIPTURE REFERENCESPrimary Passages:Matthew 4:1 - Jesus led into wilderness to be temptedHebrews 4:15 - Tempted in every way as we are, yet without sinJames 1:13-14 - God cannot be tempted; each person tempted by own desireSupporting Context:James 1:13 - Let no one say when tempted, "I am being tempted by God"James 1:14 - Each person is lured and enticed by his own desire1 John 2:16 - The desires of the flesh, eyes, and pride of life1 Corinthians 10:13 - No temptation beyond what you can bearHave a question you'd like answered? Send it to markedbygrace@fbcjax.com

In this episode, we are joined by Rev. Dr. William D. Dennison, pastor of Emmanuel Orthodox Presbyterian Church in Kent, Washington, to reflect on Cornelius Van Til's student paper “Evil and Theodicy” and the enduring challenges of explaining evil in a world governed by a sovereign, good God. Dennison has edited The Problem of Evil, a new volume that includes an edition of this paper and a helpful introductory essay that brings Van Til's paper in dialogue with contemporary thinkers. Dr. Dennison offers a deeply personal and theological meditation on Van Til's conviction that God himself is the only sufficient theodicy. We explore how the mystery of evil cannot be unraveled by philosophical speculation or evidentialist reasoning, but only understood through the revelation of the triune God in Scripture. The conversation moves from Van Til's early insights as a seminary student to the contemporary relevance of his critique of autonomy, his rejection of theistic rationalism, and his insistence on beginning all thinking with the self-attesting Christ of Scripture. Along the way, Dr. Dennison shares biographical reflections on Van Til, his own pedagogical experiences in teaching apologetics, and the pastoral importance of grounding theological inquiry in the redemptive narrative of Scripture rather than speculative philosophy. This episode is a must for those who desire to think confessionally and presuppositionally about one of the most difficult questions in theology. Chapters [0:00:07] Introduction [0:05:04] Background to the Project [0:16:55] The Historical and Biographical Context of Van Til's Student Paper [0:22:55] Van Til's Main Point [0:28:21] God Is His Own Defense [0:35:26] Van Til and Plantinga's Free Will Defense [0:41:59] The Fourfold Estate of Man [0:54:42] Van Til's Critique of Kant [0:58:40] Treating Theodicy as a Fundamentally Religious Matter [1:08:45] Conclusion

Apart from a heart of gratitude, we begin to be self-focused, self-centered, and self-pleasing. But when you and I, as Christ-followers, decide to live with a daily heart of thankfulness, it changes us. A peaceful heart is the result.Main Points:1. Gratitude causes us to focus our hearts on God as the source of every blessing. Being thankful is a part of a lifestyle of worship. Gratitude keeps us humble.2. Do you ever forget to be grateful? It's so easy to do, isn't it? We can easily take everyday blessings for granted. We can enjoy the blessings of God without considering how blessed we truly are.3. Usually we express gratitude when something good happens, but in every situation, there is something for which we can thank the Lord. Even in the inconveniences, the cancellations, the restrictions, the interruptions, the disappointments there is still a reason to give our thanks to God.Today's Scripture Verses:Romans 1:21 - “ For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened.”Colossians 3:15-17 - “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”1 Thessalonians 5:18 - “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Maybe you have wondered why some do not respond to the gospel of Jesus Christ. I have often thought, “If they could only see how wonderful Jesus is. If they could only see how amazing it is to know the Lord and to be forgiven of our sins.” But that's just it, they cannot see. They are spiritually blind.Main Points:1. The God who spoke at creation and brought light into the darkness, is the same God who can make his light shine in our hearts so that we can see Jesus.2. When we receive word that there is a cure for our spiritual blindness, we too must act. We must step out in faith and trust Jesus Christ to be our savior and our Lord. I am convinced the work of the Holy Spirit is to deal with our hearts so that we can have our spiritual blindness cured. The Spirit reveals Christ to us.3. If you don't know Jesus Christ as your savior, I want you to know the joy that awaits you. You don't have to live in the darkness of sin and this world. I pray you'll experience Jesus, who is the light of the world.Today's Scripture Verses:2 Corinthians 4:4 - “The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel that displays the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.”John 3:19 - “Light has come into the world, but people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil.”2 Corinthians 4:6 - “For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God's glory displayed in the face of Christ.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Our efforts at personal goodness, no matter how consistent they may be, will never save us. In fact, good behavior is incapable of bringing us into a right relationship with God. We must be born again.Main Points:1. Everyone of us, no matter how kind, decent, and respectful we may be, are still sinners. We have sinned. We have violated God's laws. 2. A newborn baby will need a second birth. It had a physical birth, but to be in right relationship with God it will need a spiritual birth. It must be born again.3. Have you been born again? Recognize that good behavior is incapable of saving us from our sins. We must have a new birth by placing our faith in Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord.Today's Scripture Verses:Psalm 51:5 - “Surely I was sinful at birth, sinful from the time my mother conceived me.”Romans 5:12 - “Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all people, because all sinned”Romans 3:23 - “For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God's glorious standard.”1 Peter 1:3 - “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Think about this truth. God didn't have to love us. He didn't have to offer us grace and mercy. Nothing forced God to show us forgiveness. Nothing compelled Him to give us the precious gift of eternal life, but God chose to. He chose to love us. He chose to call us His own. He chose to make us children of God. Main Points:1. If you've ever been tempted to doubt the love of God, recognize this wonderful blessing: God chose to love you. Despite all of your sins, your failures, and your mistakes, God still chose to love you and wants to spend eternity with you. 2. But there's more, not only has God chosen to love us, he has chosen to use us. You have an assignment, a task, and a role to play in the kingdom of God. For many of us, we feel as if we aren't capable or qualified, so we expect God will use others instead, but that is not what the scriptures teach us.3. God takes great joy and delight to use our lives for his glory. As He empowers us with His Holy Spirit, and we take steps of faith and obedience, great things are accomplished through our lives. All of this takes place because chooses to make it happen.Today's Scripture Verses:1 Peter 2:9 - “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.”1 Peter 2:4 - “…rejected by humans but chosen by God and precious to him.”1 Corinthians 1:26-29 - “Brothers and sisters, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. God chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast before him.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

We must see that with God's help, we have the power to flee and to run away from temptation. If we are hesitant, if we wait and entertain the temptation, we lose power against it. God's Word teaches us to flee.Main Points:1. Temptation is something everyone of us will face. No one is immune. To be tempted is not sin – it's what you do with the temptation that's important.  Even Jesus was tempted. 2. So, how do we flee temptation? We can always pray. We can cry out to God for strength against whatever temptation we are facing. Sometime it may be necessary to physically flee your environment. You may need to call a friend or family member for support.3. What is essential is that you choose a course of action before you face the temptation. If you wait until you are tempted, it's too late. Decide today how you will flee temptation.Today's Scripture Verses:Matthew 6:13 - “Lead us not into temptation.”2 Timothy 2:22 - “Flee also youthful lusts; but pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.”1 Corinthians 6:18 - “Flee sexual immorality.”  1 Corinthians 10:14 - “Flee from idolatry.”1 Corinthians 10:13 - “No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.”Psalm 141:4 - “Do not let my heart be drawn to what is evil so that I take part in wicked deeds along with those who are evildoers…”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

This Sunday, Pastor Jesse preached on how we need to take up our cross to follow Jesus.   Main Points & Scripture: Mark 8:34-38 Take up Your Cross Romans 6:6 Galatians 2 John 15:18-19 Hebrews 12:1-3   *This episode was recorded on 08/03/25

In Week 7 of our Summer on the Mount series, Pastor Casey Olsen unpacks Matthew 6:19–24, a powerful portion of Jesus' Sermon on the Mount that challenges our hearts, our habits, and our loyalties. Are we chasing fleeting treasures or investing in what truly lasts?Key themes:- What we pursue shapes who we become- Our vision determines our inner light- The master we serve defines our directionWith clarity and conviction, Pastor Casey calls us to examine our priorities, perceptions, and spiritual investments. Through stories, Scripture, and practical application, we're reminded that Jesus is the only treasure who won't rot, rust, or run—the only master who gave Himself fully for us.Main Points:1. Pursuit shapes the person – What we chase is forming our soul2. Perception fuels perspective – What we focus on fills us with light or darkness3. Priority reveals the master – You can't serve God and moneyThis sermon will help you:- Identify idols and misplaced trust- Reorient your life around eternal purpose- Learn to live with spiritual clarity and kingdom vision- Experience the freedom of wholehearted devotion to ChristHave you ever chased something that promised satisfaction but left you restless? This message speaks directly to that ache and invites you into a better way—a life centered on Jesus.

How many times have you and I come to God in prayer over a desperate situation, and we felt as if we didn't have the words to pray?  We didn't know what to say. In that moment, words seem to fail us.Main Points:1. What a powerful truth this is! The Spirit of God knows what our needs are and in our moments of weakness, begins to intercede for us.2. We need the Spirit's help because we are so weak.   There are moments in life when we are physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually exhausted.  Circumstances have pushed us over the edge.3. The Holy Spirit takes up our needs at the deepest emotional level and brings our hurts and cares to the Father's throne, all in line with the will of God. This should encourage us to pour out our hearts before Him.Today's Scripture Verses:Romans 8:26-27 - “In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God's people in accordance with the will of God.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

The giants we struggle with the most are not sickness, finances, pain, loss, or grief.  Our biggest giants are internal.  The battles that take us out are personal.  Struggles like lust, greed, selfishness, anger, bitterness, and fear can become giants that destroy our faith, our relationships, and our future.  We must guard our hearts and develop a close relationship with Jesus to defeat these giants within. Main Points:1. David's internal giant was lust.    You may not battle this one, but perhaps you are fighting another internal giant, one with a different name. Maybe you are fighting the giant of discouragement, despair, fear, anxiety, depression, grief, anger, or unforgiveness.2. Thankfully, King David was repentant and his relationship with God was restored, but it's a tragic story that didn't have to happen if only David had guarded his heart. For us, the story is a cautionary tale and a reminder to run to God for help when we are fighting internal giants.3. Bring your giants to God. With His help, every giant can be defeated.Today's Scripture Verses:2 Samuel 5:13 - “David took more concubines and wives in Jerusalem…”Proverbs 4:23 - “Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life.”Psalm 46:1 - “God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

The Bible teaches us that not only does God forgive us, but he removes our condemnation. Grace brings freedom. It provides healing for the soul. Sins are not only forgiven, but God lifts our sentence of guilt. Shame is erased.Main Points:1. There is one universal thing every human has in common. We are all sinners. We have all made mistakes. We all have failures and shortcomings.2. The story of the gospel is that Jesus has come to save us from our sins. Jesus died on the cross, taking the penalty for our sins and satisfying the justice of a righteous and holy God. Out of His love and grace, he offers us forgiveness of our sins, as we place our faith in Him and confess Him as our Lord and Savior.3. Stop and think about these words. No condemnation. Not a hint, not a whisper, not even a shadow of it. The believer stands before the throne of God, not as a condemned criminal awaiting punishment, but as a redeemed child embraced by the loving arms of the Father.Today's Scripture Verses:Romans 3:23 - “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”1 Corinthians 6:11 - “…you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.”John 3:17 - “For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him."Romans 8:1 - “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”John 5:24 - “I tell you the truth, whoever hears My word and believes Him who sent Me has eternal life and he will not be condemned.  He has crossed over from death to life."   Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

You and I have a truth we can hold onto today: God is a promise-keeper. He will not fail. What He has said, He will do. What He has promised, He will perform. Main Points:1. Let this truth be an encouragement in your life today. No word from God ever fails. No matter your current circumstances, God's Word remains unshakable. In times of uncertainty, when others may question the reliability of God's promises, as believers, we can find comfort and assurance in the unchanging nature of God's Word.2. Some of God's promises come to pass quickly, even overnight. Others stretch over long periods of time. Waiting on God is not always easy. In fact, sometimes it's even painful. As finite humans, it's difficult to understand the timing of a sovereign God. Yet, we live by faith. We trust a God who has proven Himself to be true to His Word time and time again.3. Be encouraged by the truth that no word from God will ever fail. Today's Scripture Verses:Luke 1:37, "For no word from God will ever fail."Joshua 21:43-45 - “So the Lord gave Israel all the land he had sworn to give their ancestors, and they took possession of it and settled there. The Lord gave them rest on every side, just as he had sworn to their ancestors. Not one of their enemies withstood them; the Lord gave all their enemies into their hands. Not one of all the Lord's good promises to Israel failed; every one was fulfilled.”1 Kings 8:56“ - Blessed be the Lord who has given rest to his people Israel, according to all that he promised. Not one word has failed of all his good promise, which he spoke by Moses his servant”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

God, in His infinite wisdom, uses what the world considers foolish—the preaching of the cross—to confound the wise. The power of salvation is not found in human wisdom or eloquence, but in the message of Christ's sacrificial love.Main Points:1. To an unsaved world, the salvation that God offers us through Christ seems incomprehensible to those who haven't experienced it. It sounds like “foolishness” to say that salvation could come through a cross—a death marked by weakness, defeat, and humiliation. Yet this “foolishness” was the salvation that Paul preached! 2. God took something shameful and weak—death on a cross—and made it the foundation of wisdom and power. God does the unimaginable. Later in verse 27, Paul would say that God chooses the weak and foolish things of the world to shame the wise.3. The simple message of the Gospel, though considered foolish by the world, carries the power to transform lives and bring about salvation. Today's Scripture Verses:1 Corinthians 1:18-24 - “For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. For it is written: “I will destroy the wisdom of the wise; the intelligence of the intelligent I will frustrate.”  Where is the wise person? Where is the teacher of the law? Where is the philosopher of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world? For since in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not know him, God was pleased through the foolishness of what was preached to save those who believe. Jews demand signs and Greeks look for wisdom, but we preach Christ crucified: a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles, but to those whom God has called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. For the foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than human strength.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Don't Stop Believing, Part 2 A sermon by Pastor Richard Sfameni, Lead Pastor at Victory Church, in Providence, RI. Opening and Welcome Greeting and response (“Amen. You may be seated. Praise the Lord…”) Appreciation for worship and participation Importance of authentic worship regardless of personal trial Your worship may inspire others seeing you worship through struggles Introduction to the Message Continuation of last week's sermon: “Don't Stop Believing” Central theme: The importance of faith Church communications and resources Plan to distribute more tools (study notes, questions, etc.) Request for members' contact information for improved communication Emphasis: Church is not just about large attendance, but engagement and making disciples The Church's Mission A. Contrast: Mere attendance vs. engagement and discipleship Mission to make disciples, not just fill seats Desire for everyone to participate in the mission Illustration: “Church is not a show” Story of the complaining church family and the child's remark Clarification: True purpose is the kingdom of God and being a church on mission Textual Foundation: Hebrews 12:1–4 Reading the passage: Call to run the race with endurance Surrounded by a “cloud of witnesses” Laying aside every weight and sin Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of faith Enduring hostility/persecution Context of Hebrews Audience: New Jewish believers facing persecution and discouragement Emphasis on Jesus' supremacy (greater than Moses, angels, law, etc.) Faith as a central theme—challenge to keep believing despite opposition The Value and Battle for Faith The cost and value of faith Faith is precious and under attack by the enemy Analogy: No one protects garbage; faith is worth guarding Scriptural support: 1 Peter 1:6–7 Faith tested by trials is more precious than gold Faith defined as taking God at His word, trusting His promises The devil's strategy Destroy faith to win the war for your soul Example: Peter's denial—Jesus prayed for his faith, not his flawless behavior Faith enables recovery from failure; without faith, all is lost Restoration possible in every area if faith remains Encouragement Against Discouragement Relating to listeners facing severe trials Message: Keep running, keep believing, keep trusting God Faith Lessons from Hebrews 12:1–4 Prompt: “I need to learn more about faith.” Faith as Armor and Protection Theme connection: VBS and the armor of God Shield of faith in spiritual warfare Attack of the enemy represented as “fiery darts” Practical reminder: The armor and shield are necessary for those following Christ Emphasis on being targeted by the enemy after choosing Christ Review of Main Points on Faith (from Hebrews 11 and 12) Examples of Faith Long-distance race imagery—a “cloud of witnesses” Heroes of faith in Hebrews 11: Overcame challenges through faith Romans 15:4—Scripture written for our learning and hope Hindrances of Faith Laying aside “every weight and sin” Illustration: Man with backpack in church = symbolic of carrying burdens Every person has weights unique to them; these hinder the race Philippians 3:12–14—Forgetting the past, pressing to the future Weights may be past hurts, offenses, or nostalgia for “good old days” God grants “divine forgetfulness;” past loses its sting through grace Warning: Some people's lives are diminished by holding onto the past Everyone gets hurt—must let go of past to move forward Analogy of car: Rear view mirror vs. windshield Not just bad things—even good things can keep you from the best Example from business literature: Jim Collins' “stop doing list” Need for focus and discipline; not every opportunity is for you Living With Focus and Purpose Personal examples (Clergy Day, Black Hawk helicopter story) Temptation to take on too much, even good things, but must focus on God's specific calling Pastor's personal callings—pastoring, discipling, international ministry Not every door is yours to walk through The Perseverance of Faith (Major Point) Key emphasis: Learning to persevere/endure Life of faith is a marathon, not a sprint Everyone must run their race for a lifetime Many start but give up because of opposition/discouragement Greek word “hupomonē”—active, determined perseverance despite hardship Perseverance needed in all areas: marriage, raising kids, ministry, career Illustrations: Father-son story—Elmer MacLurkin (a joke to show the importance of perseverance) Famous perseverance quote: Winston Churchill—“Never, never, never give up” Bible college anecdote: “Never, never, never quit”—words that rang true over time Practical encouragement Heroes like Noah and Abraham persevered over decades for God's promise Breakthroughs often come after the hardest trials—don't quit before your breakthrough God's grace picks you up after you fall; faith enables you to keep going Closing Exhortation and Prayer The way to persevere: Prayer and the Word Grace for endurance comes through prayer, worship, and Scripture Not about willpower, but about God's grace working in you Ministry anecdote: “You can quit Sunday afternoon, just show up Monday morning.” Final appeals Don't quit: on God, on relationships, on dreams, on your walk Don't miss your breakthrough—greatest attacks precede the next season Reiterate: “Don't quit. Don't give up. Never, never, never quit.” Closing prayer Ask God to ignite and strengthen the people's hearts with truth Call for going forward, not quitting, renewed by God's grace in word and prayer Recap: The critical, non-negotiable importance of daily connection to God's Word and prayer  

The good news is that God specializes in restoring and rebuilding lives. Millions of people have experienced His grace and power. They have seen God pick them up out of the ruins and turn their lives around.Main Points:1. Today, there are many whose lives are falling apart. Their marriages have been destroyed. There is conflict and difficulty within the family relationships.  Many have experienced collapse due to sin and rebellion against God. They have left behind a trail of mistakes, failures, and poor decisions. Others battle addictions and brokenness. Where there was once health and vitality, there is now rubble and debris.2. Maybe you need God's restoration power in your life, and you wonder where to start? How do you begin to pick up the pieces of a life that has been broken apart? The answer is to follow the example of Ezra. Rebuild the altar. 3. With humility, rebuild the altar in your life. No, not a physical altar or a piece of furniture where you would kneel to pray. Building an altar means you are turning to God for help. You are establishing a relationship with God. You are reaching out in prayer to a God of grace. He's a God who wants to restore.Today's Scripture Verses:2 Kings 25:1,9 - “Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon marched against Jerusalem with his whole army. He set fire to the temple of the Lord, the royal palace and all the houses of Jerusalem. Every important building he burned down. The whole Babylonian army under the commander of the imperial guard broke down the walls around Jerusalem.”Ezra 3:3 - “Despite their fear of the peoples around them, they built the altar on its foundation and sacrificed burnt offerings on it to the Lord, both the morning and evening sacrifices.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

The Word of God is our trail marker. Without the Word of God, we don't know where to walk, or even how to walk, in a spiritual sense.  Left to ourselves, we will get lost. Main Points:1. A hiker who ignores the trail markers and wanders off the well-worn path, thinking they know a better way, is foolish. To think you know better than those who have walked this journey before you would be unwise. Yet, as it relates to our Christian faith, it happens all the time.2. We must see that there is safety in staying on the path God has marked out for us. He has marked the way home. If we let God's Word be our guide and if we let the Scripture identify every step, we'll make it safely to our eternal destination. 3. We can't afford to be careless on our spiritual journey. We must be in the Word of God. We must read the truth of the Bible and apply it to our lives. This will ensure that God's Word directs our footsteps.Today's Scripture Verses:Psalm 119:133 - “Direct my footsteps according to your word; let no sin rule over me.”Psalm 119:105 - “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.”Hebrews 12:1 - “Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us…”Proverbs 14:12 - “There is a way that seems right to a man, But its end is the way of death.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

The most foundational doctrine of Christianity is that Jesus was 100% God and 100% man. He is the son of God and the son of man. He was virgin born, conceived by the Holy Spirit. This does not mean God came down and was sexually intimate with Mary. It means it is a miraculous conception.Main Points:1. The virgin birth reveals the deity of Jesus. If Jesus is not God, then he could not save us. And if Jesus did not save you, you are still lost in your sins.2. Jesus was born as a man because he had to be a man to be our true representative on the cross. He had to be God because He is the only one capable of saving us.3. Do not let anyone tell you the doctrine of the virgin birth of Christ is not an essential belief. It is absolutely essential. The virgin birth of Jesus fulfills the prophecy and promise of God, and it reveals the deity of our Savior.Today's Scripture Verses:John 1:14 - “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.”Isaiah 7:14 - “Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

As humans, we often mistakenly value a person's life by what they give to the world, their gifts, talents, and abilities. But this is not how God values a person's life. He does not attribute value based on perceived earthly contributions.  No, with God, all life is precious. From conception to the grave, God values all life as important and valuable.Main Points:1. One of the most controversial issues of our lifetime has been that of abortion. The question at the heart of this debate is, “When does life begin?” Does it begin at conception or does it begin at birth? Does it begin at some other point during the pregnancy?2. Because life originates with God. All life is precious to him. Every life has worth to God. The unborn child in the womb is valuable to God. The handicapped person is valuable to God. Those with mental illness are valuable to God. The elderly in a nursing home are valuable to God. All life is precious, and because of so, every life is worthy of dignity and respect.3. If we allow the Word of God to be authoritative in our lives, we'll align with God's view of human life. God is pro-life.Today's Scripture Verses:Jeremiah 1:5 - “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you…”Psalm 139:13 - “For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother's womb…”Job 31:15 - “Did not he who made me in the womb make him? And did not one fashion us in the womb?Genesis 1:27 - “So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.”Psalm 127:3 - “Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him…"Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

It seems that memorizing scripture is a lost discipline in today's church culture. I rarely hear anyone talking about the verse they are memorizing, nor do I hear people reciting the verses they have learned by heart. Main Points:1. A generation ago, scripture memorization was practiced more regularly. It was talked about in the church. At home, families memorized Bible verses together and practiced quoting them to one another. I remember as a child, my family memorizing Romans chapters six and eight. We also memorized several of the Psalms. Amazingly, many years later, I can still recite many of these Bible verses by heart.2. When we memorize Bible verses, it allows us to internalize the Word of God. This deepens our spiritual understanding and helps us apply the scriptures to our daily lives.3. Putting the Word of God in our hearts and developing the ability to recite verses at any time gives us the strength to fight temptation.Today's Scripture Verses:Deuteronomy 11:18-19 - “Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds; tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Teach them to your children, talking about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.”Colossians 3:16 - “Let the Word of God dwell in you richly…” Psalm 1:1-2 - “Blessed is the one…whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night.”Psalm 119:11 - “I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.”Psalm 37:31 - “The law of their God is in their hearts; their feet do not slip.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Today, you and I will say a lot of words. We have more ways to communicate than any previous generation. We speak, write, text, email, and use social media, all of which require a choice of words. Let's slow down, think before speaking, allow the Lord to give us wisdom, and choose our words carefully.Main Points:1. We might be tempted to think our words don't matter, but according to God, they do.  Jesus spoke about how our words reveal what is in our hearts.2. Our words are like a bucket of water dipped into a well.  If there is fresh water down deep, that's what comes out.  If what is below is stagnant, polluted, and diseased, that is what will come out.  In other words, “If the heart is clean, the words are clean.”  If the heart is contaminated, our words will expose it.3. Because our words have such an impact on others, we must ask God to give us wisdom in our daily interactions. Through our words we have the potential to bless, encourage, and inspire. We also have the potential to injure, discourage, and inflict emotional pain.Today's Scripture Verses:Ephesians 4:29  - “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.”Luke 6:45 – “A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.”Ecclesiastes 10:12 - “Words from the mouth of the wise are gracious, but fools are consumed by their own lips.”Proverbs 15:7 - “The lips of the wise spread knowledge, but the hearts of fools are not upright.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

What's next? Isn't that the question many of us are asking? As humans, we are forward-looking. What does tomorrow hold? Many feel that God has a next season for their lives. We acknowledge that as long as we are living, God has a next step for our spiritual growth and purpose.Main Points:1. It's vital that we learn a great truth: God's next season for your life will require you to step out in faith. It always does. Your next opportunity, your next ministry, and your next season will necessitate that you take a step of faith to trust God. Why? God loves it when we trust Him. He wants His children to place their full faith in confidence in Him, believing that He is leading their lives.2. I've seen a lot of Christians get stuck and become stagnant. The thing holding them back is the fear of taking a step of faith. So, in a spiritual sense, they plateau. They are not moving forward. They are not experiencing the joy and excitement of living a journey of faith. 3. God is not asking us to step into a future without Him. God is not giving us a pep talk to say, “go ahead, you'll be alright.” No, God is walking ahead of us. He is leading the way. God goes before us. We follow.Today's Scripture Verses:Deuteronomy 31:8 - “The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.”Isaiah 52:12 - “For the LORD will go ahead of you; yes, the God of Israel will protect you from behind.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

The Holy Spirit is speaking to every believer in Jesus, and He's asking the question, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” God wants to send every one of us into His Kingdom work. When we say, “Here am I, send me,” God will use our lives for His glory.Main Points:1. I've noticed over the years that the thing that keeps many Christians from stepping out in faith and allowing God to use their lives is that they disqualify themselves. Some feel unusable because of their past, their failures, and their mistakes. Others think God is looking for people who are more spiritual or more gifted.2. Notice in the verse with Isaiah, there are no qualifications listed. God was looking for one thing: availability. The old saying is still true: God is not looking for ability. He is looking for availability. 3. God is still searching for men and women who will say yes. He's looking for individuals who are willing to be sent and to be used by the Holy Spirit.Today's Scripture Verses:Isaiah 6:8 - “Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?” And I said, “Here am I. Send me!”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Does God hear and answer every prayer? What is the connection between "righteousness" and answered prayer? Main Points:1. The word “righteous” – being in a right relationship with God.  We are intimidated by this.  The word “righteous” scares us because we know our own tendency to sin, but we need to understand that we receive our “righteousness” from Christ.  Romans says, “our own righteousness is like filthy rags.”2. While we cannot earn our righteous standing, we seek after a righteous lifestyle practically. We pursue righteousness when we pursue the character of Christ and desire holiness more than fleshly indulgence. We avoid the temptation to become self-righteous when we understand that true righteousness begins with godly humility.3. Remember, righteousness cannot be achieved apart from receiving the grace of God, but once we are saved, we are called to live a righteous life. As we do, God will honor our prayers with His response.Today's Scripture Verses:“If I had not confessed the sin in my heart, the Lord would not have listened.” (Psalm 66:18 NLT)“If a man shut his ears to the cry of the poor, he too will cry out and not be answered.” (Proverbs 21:13)“But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord.” (James 1:6-7)“When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures.” (James 4:3)”The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” (James 5:16)“God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” (2 Corinthians 5:21)Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Greatness in the kingdom of God is rooted in humility and sacrificial service. So, we see that greatness is achievable for all of us. It's not dependent on your title, position, location, influence, or anything else. Greatness is achieved when we serve others. All of us can do this today.Main Points:1. Our culture sees greatness as record-breaking achievements, success, influence, power, position, fame, and notoriety. But God sees it differently.2. Consider this: Jesus, the Son of God, the King of Kings, chose to serve rather than be served. In a culture that revered positions of authority, Jesus shattered expectations by washing the disciples' feet and living a life marked by humility and selflessness.3. Whether in the workplace, our families, or communities, let us remember the example set by the ultimate servant-leader, Jesus Christ. May our lives reflect His humility, compassion, and commitment to serving others.Today's Scripture Verses:Mark 10:35-37 - “Then James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came to him. “Teacher,” they said, “we want you to do for us whatever we ask.” “What do you want me to do for you?” he asked. They replied, “Let one of us sit at your right and the other at your left in your glory.” Mark 10:42-25 - “Jesus called them together and said, “You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Unless the author of the Bible is  God, the scripture is simply the collection of ancient man's thoughts and idea, it might be uplighting and even inspiring, but we wouldn't consider it authoritative. Yet, if the author is truly God Almighty, then His words are as eternal as He is. His words are relevant for every generation. His words and life-changing are transformative.Main Points:1. There is a question today in our culture about the continued validity and relevance of the Bible. Many no longer consider the Scripture to be inspired by God and they certainly do not regard it to hold any kind of authority over their beliefs or actions. 2. The relevance and authority of the Bible are still in place, in fact they are eternal, because of its source, the very mouth of God.3. The Bible is the eternal, unchanging, always-relevant, Word of God. Through its pages we are introduced to the author. We come to know Him in a personal way and we are transformed.Today's Scripture Verses:2 Timothy 3:16-17 - “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”2 Peter 1:21 - “For prophecy never had its origin in the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group