Podcasts about mature christians

Jeff interviews Spencer Nakamura, where they discuss Christians becoming numb, letting your work replace your walk, struggling with evangelism and being intentional about discipleship. FOLLOW US: https://linktr.ee/elijahfireshow /// ElijahFire and ElijahStreams are part of Elijah List Ministries. Thank you for making the always-free Elijah List Ministries possible! Click here to learn how to partner with us: https://secure.qgiv.com/for/elijahfirepodcast

Pastor Don shares from Colossians about helping others grow in their faith.

Monday, February 24, 2025

Some teachers claim that we don't have fancy blessings because we lack faith. What does that mean for the suffering Christians in third-world countries? Jesus disproved this message in the Gospel of Mark when He said that some believers will experience great trials. Difficulties don't show a lack of faith—mature Christians see that they create opportunities to witness for the Lord!

Friday, February 21, 2025

Thursday, February 20, 2025

     As humans, it's natural to look at our circumstances and pay close attention to our experiences and feelings from moment to moment. We're happy when our circumstances are to our liking, as our experiences and feelings enjoy this. However, because we live in a fallen world with fallen people (including ourselves), circumstances inevitably produce unhappy experiences and feelings. If we don't have something greater than our experiences and feelings to stabilize our souls, then we'll always fall victim to circumstances. As we advance in our walk with the Lord, faith in God and His Word dominates our souls more and more. Biblical thinking replaces human viewpoint. We are governed by biblical wisdom rather than experiences or feelings. The daily insertion of Scripture into our thinking, and our willful meditation on it, causes a paradigm shift in how we perceive the world, ourselves, and our experiences.      Having God's Word as a base of truth provides a platform for managing our thoughts, which is critical for stable spiritual development. Paul wrote, “We are destroying speculations and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God, and we are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ” (2 Cor 10:5). In this passage, Paul emphasizes the need to actively combat ideas, philosophies, and mindsets that are contrary to God's truth. The phrase “taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ” suggests a disciplined and intentional approach to our mental life. Rather than allowing thoughts to run unchecked or be influenced by the world's values, believers are called to bring their thoughts under the authority of Christ. This involves filtering every idea through the lens of Scripture, ensuring that what we dwell on aligns with God's revealed truth. William MacDonald wrote: "Paul saw himself as a soldier warring against the proud reasonings of man, arguments which oppose the truth. The true character of these arguments is described in the expression against the knowledge of God. It could be applied today to the reasonings of scientists, evolutionists, philosophers, and religionists who have no room for God in their scheme of things. The apostle was in no mood to sign a truce with these. Rather he felt committed to bring every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ. All men's teachings and speculations must be judged in the light of the teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ." [bolding his][1]      Elsewhere, Paul wrote, “Therefore if you have been raised up with Christ, keep seeking the things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on earth” (Col 3:1-2). This directive points to a conscious and ongoing effort to focus on eternal realities rather than temporal concerns. By keeping our minds attuned to God's Word and His purposes, we cultivate a perspective that is rooted in eternity, which in turn shapes our actions, decisions, and attitudes in the present.      The importance of focusing and meditating on God's Word cannot be overstated. In a world filled with distractions and competing voices, the ability to consistently align our thoughts with Scripture is vital for maintaining spiritual health and maturity. Meditation on God's Word—thinking deeply and continuously about it—enables us to internalize His truths, which then serve as a guiding light in all areas of life (Psa 119:105). It empowers us to discern truth from error, resist temptation, and respond to life's challenges with faith and wisdom.      In essence, God's Word provides the framework for a disciplined thought life, which is essential for experiencing the peace that God promises and for growing in Christlikeness. As we focus and meditate on Scripture, our minds are renewed (Rom 12:2), and we develop the mind of Christ (1 Cor 2:16; Phil 2:5). But the Word of God, to be beneficial to the child of God, must be mixed with faith and applied to everyday life (Heb 4:1-2). James wrote, “But prove yourselves doers of the word, and not merely hearers who deceive themselves” (Jam 1:22). Wiersbe states: "It's in the obeying of the Word that we experience the blessing, not in the reading or the hearing of it (Jam 1:22–25)…If our knowledge of the truth doesn't result in obedience, then we end up with a big head instead of a burning heart (1 Cor 8:1; Luke 24:32); and truth becomes a toy to play with, not a tool to build with."[2] Believers Experience Varied Rates and Degrees of Growth      Some Christians grow more quickly than others. Mature Christians are mature because of practice and training. According to Earl Radmacher, “Not all believers move ahead spiritually at the same pace, and some seem not to grow at all (1 Cor 3:15; 2 John 8). As a result, at the judgment seat of Christ they will lose out on rewards and on positions of service in Christ's coming millennial reign (2 Tim 2:12).”[3]      The rate of spiritual growth varies among believers and is influenced by several key factors. While every believer has the potential to grow spiritually, the actual rate of growth depends on the individual's volition, discipline in studying the Word of God, and consistency of application in the spiritual life. Spiritual growth is not automatic; it requires persistent effort in learning and applying Bible teaching under the teaching ministry of the Holy Spirit. The believer's positive volition is critical as he/she must prioritize learning God's Word. A believer who is diligent in this regard will experience accelerated spiritual growth, while those who are inconsistent, distracted, or indifferent will grow at a much slower rate.      Additionally, external factors, such as suffering, testing, and life experiences, also play a role in spiritual growth. Paul wrote, “we exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope” (Rom 5:3-4). James wrote, “Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance” (Jam 1:2-3; cf. Matt 5:11-12; 2 Cor 12:10). These situations, when faced with a biblical perspective, could either accelerate or hinder growth depending on how the believer responds. For instance, a believer who applies God's Word during times of adversity will often experience more rapid growth.      Satan will employ every tactic he has at his disposal to hinder the believer's spiritual walk and advance to maturity. The reality of spiritual warfare is that Satan and his forces are actively engaged in opposing the spiritual growth and effectiveness of believers. Satan's strategies are both multifaceted and subtle, designed to distract, deceive, and discourage believers from advancing in their spiritual lives. For instance, Satan uses deception by promoting false doctrines and distortions of the truth to lead believers away from sound Bible teaching (2 Cor 11:3-4, 13-15). He also seeks to distract believers from their spiritual priorities by using worldly concerns, materialism, and pleasures (1 John 2:15-17).      Moreover, Satan aims to discourage believers by undermining their confidence in God's promises and plans, often through personal failures, hardships, or external pressures (1 Pet 5:8-9). Additionally, Satan entices believers to sin, which disrupts their fellowship with God and stalls their spiritual growth (Jam 1:14-15). He might also use direct opposition, such as spiritual attacks, persecution, or the hostility of the world system, to thwart the believer's progress (Eph 6:12).      To counter these tactics, it is important for the believer to be fully equipped with the “full armor of God” (Eph 6:10-17). This includes a consistent intake of Bible teaching, a strong prayer life, and reliance on the Holy Spirit, all of which are essential to stand firm against Satan's schemes. While Satan's efforts are real and persistent, believers know that Satan has already been defeated by Christ. Therefore, a believer who is grounded in the Word and walking in the Spirit can effectively resist and overcome these attempts to hinder their spiritual growth. Earl Radmacher notes, “Sometimes the cause of spiritual retrogression is persecution (John 12:42–43), while other times it may be doctrinal deviation (1 Tim 1:18–20) or worldly allurement (2 Tim 4:10)—but Satan always has several fiery darts in his weaponry to fit the occasion.”[4] Robert B. Thieme, Jr. states: "Having advanced beyond spiritual childhood, the Christian in spiritual adulthood is closer to fulfilling his purpose in life, which is to become a spiritually mature person “to the measure of the stature which belongs to the fullness of Christ” (Eph 4:13–16). Basic doctrines learned and practiced in spiritual childhood are now reinforced with the strength of adulthood. Application of divine viewpoint is more consistent, more accurate, and less dependent on others. Along with an increased capacity for life, spiritual adulthood includes being motivated by personal love for God (Mark 12:30), making many decisions to glorify Christ rather than self (2 Th 1:12), turning adversity into suffering for blessing (2 Cor 12:7–11), sharing in God's happiness (John 15:11; 1 Pet 1:8), and facing all circumstances with confidence in God's perfect plan and provision (2 Tim 1:7; Jam 1:4)."[5]      In summary, while God provides every believer with the means to grow spiritually, the rate of that growth is largely determined by the believer's positive volition, consistent study and application of the Bible, and response to the circumstances of life. Each believer's spiritual journey is unique, but those who prioritize and immerse themselves in the Word of God will typically experience faster and more robust spiritual growth.   [1] William MacDonald, Believer's Bible Commentary: Old and New Testaments, ed. Arthur Farstad (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1995), 1856. [2] Warren W. Wiersbe, Be Heroic, “Be” Commentary Series (Colorado Springs, CO: Chariot Victor Pub., 1997), 38. [3] Earl Radmacher, “Salvation,” Understanding Christian Theology (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Publishers, 2003), 895. [4] Earl Radmacher, “Salvation,” Understanding Christian Theology, 895. [5] Robert B. Thieme, Jr. “Spiritual Adulthood”, Thieme's Bible Doctrine Dictionary, 245.

1 Peter 4:1-8 “Therefore, since Christ suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves also read more... The post The Maturity Series Sermon 3: Identifying Mature Christians appeared first on Victory Fellowship Church.

1. We Have This Treasure (7) 2. We Are Given Over To Death (8-12) 3. We Have The Same Spirit Of Faith (13-15) 4. We Don't Lose Heart (16-18)

Indwelling sin manifests its power in the habitual declensions from zeal and holiness-from the frames, state, and condition of obedience and communion with God unto which they had attained-which are found in many believers. Promises of growth and improvement are many and precious, the means excellent and effective, the benefits great and unspeakable. Yet it often falls out that, instead of these blessings, decays and declensions are found in professors- yea, even in and upon many of the saints of God.

Indwelling sin manifests its power in the habitual declensions from zeal and holiness—from the frames, state, and condition of obedience and communion with God unto which they had attained—which are found in many believers. Promises of growth and improvement are many and precious, the means excellent and effective, the benefits great and unspeakable. Yet it often falls out that, instead of these blessings, decays and declensions are found in professors; yea, even in and upon many of the saints of God.

A new MP3 sermon from The Narrated Puritan is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: The Fearful Eruptions of Sin in Many Mature Christians. Subtitle: Indwelling SinTreatise Speaker: John Owen Broadcaster: The Narrated Puritan Event: Audiobook Date: 10/14/2024 Bible: Romans 7:21 Length: 39 min.

We will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching. . . . — Ephesians 4:14 Many societies in the world today tend to neglect elderly people. They often focus on youth, innovation, and the desire to get ahead. Being young is fashionable, and people who can't keep up are often pushed aside. An old African proverb puts it differently: “What an old man can see sitting down, the youth cannot see standing up.” In other words, young people are full of youth and energy, but they don't have the wisdom that is acquired through experience. Even in the early days of the church there were winds that could blow new believers off course. Ideas, ideals, and ideologies could sway new Christians one way and then another. In order to withstand the storm of doctrines and sort out what is wise from what is foolish, it is important to become mature. An immature Christian may be joyful and full of energy but can also be unstable and undiscerning. Mature Christians confess the truth in love while continuing to grow. They know that love and truth, doctrine and life, grace and holiness go hand in hand and should not be separated. It is wonderful to be able to grow in this way. All of us continue to grow in faith, no matter how long we have followed Jesus. In what ways can you keep growing in spiritual maturity? How is God calling you to support and encourage the next generation of believers? Lord, help us to speak and live by the truth in love, helping others to grow in faith. Amen.

     I define spirituality as: The life the Christian experiences when properly living in dependence upon the Holy Spirit and walking according to Scripture. Spirituality assumes regeneration, as one cannot be spiritual without being born again to new life through God the Holy Spirit (John 3:3; 1 Pet 1:3, 23). This new spiritual birth—or regeneration—occurs at the moment of faith in Christ, when one believes in Jesus as Savior (John 3:15-16; 6:40; 20:31; Acts 4:12; 16:31). Once they are born again, their spiritual life will advance in proportion to their intake of Scripture and their willingness to apply it as the Holy Spirit directs. Since we cannot live what we do not know, it's necessary to learn God's Word in order to live His will. A Christian who consistently studies and applies God's Word will reach spiritual maturity more quickly than one who studies little. Christians who are ignorant of God's Word, or unwilling to obey it, will default to human viewpoint thinking, emotion, or experience as the rule for life. Consequently, immature Christians may define spirituality by non-biblical terms or by their feelings at any given moment. This humanistic and emotional metric will inevitably lead to uncertainty, instability, and inconsistency in their walk with the Lord due to incorrect thoughts and vacillating emotions. God wants our thinking to be properly calibrated according to His Word (Psa 1:2-3; 2 Tim 2:15; 3:16-17; 1 Pet 2:2), and to live by faith (2 Cor 5:7; Heb 10:38; 11:6), which eventually yields fruit (Gal 5:22-23) and a stable Christian life (Psa 119:165; Isa 26:3; Phil 4:6-7; Col 3:16; 2 Tim 1:7). But time is a key ingredient for the Christian to reach spiritual maturity. Charles Ryrie states: "Christian maturity is the growth which the Holy Spirit produces over a period of time in the believer. To be sure, the same amount of time is not required for each individual, but some time is necessary for all. It is not the time itself which is determinative of maturity; rather it is the progress made and growth achieved which is all-important."[1]      As the Christian learns and lives God's Word by faith and yields to the Spirit's guiding, there will be a gradual transformation of character that will be seen in one's thoughts, values, words, and actions as they pertain to family, friends, work, finances, and social life. Wendell Johnston states: "People who are spiritual do certain things as well as refrain from some things. They will express love to God without reservation and will love others in the body of Christ. They will even show love and graciousness to their enemies (Rom 12:9, 20–21). Spiritual people seek to live according to the principles set forth in Scripture and desire to study the Word of God and put into practice what it says (2 Tim 2:15; 3:14–17; Heb 4:12; 5:11–14; 1 Pet 2:2). They will seek to worship God individually and with other believers (Heb 10:22–25). Spirituality will be expressed by proper conduct in the home (Eph 5:22–6:4; 1 Pet 3:3–7), and people who are spiritual will lead Christlike lives in society and will respect civil authority (1 Pet 2:13–17). They will live godly lives even in a hostile environment (1 Pet 3:13–17)."[2]      Furthermore, there is always opposition to spiritual growth, for we live in a fallen world and are confronted with many obstacles and distractions that seek to push or pull us away from God. Though constant distractions are all around us, we move forward by “destroying speculations and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God, and are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ” (2 Cor 10:5). Bringing our thoughts into captivity means focusing our minds on God and His Word (Psa 1:1-2; Isa 26:3; Prov 3:5-6; Col 3:1-2), and not allowing our thoughts to be bogged down and trapped with the cares of this world (Matt 6:25-34). This requires discipline. Spiritual Discipline      Spiritual maturity is the product of a disciplined life that is consciously and intentionally surrendered to God on a moment-by-moment basis. Discipline is doing what we ought to do, whether we want to do it or not, because it's right. Christian discipline is living as God wants us to live, as obedient-to-the-Word believers who walk by faith and not feelings. The proper Christian life glorifies the Lord, edifies others, and creates in us a personal sense of destiny that is connected with the God who called us into service. As we advance in our walk with the Lord, spiritual maturity is an important target, and this requires discipline of mind and will.      Paul, when writing to his young friend, Timothy, says, “discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness” (1 Tim 4:7). Paul does not deny the benefit of bodily discipline, but, when compared to godly discipline, says it “is only of little profit” (1 Tim 4:8a). Godliness translates the Greek noun eusebeia (εὐσέβεια) which denotes devotion to God and a life that is pleasing to Him. It means we are concerned with what the Lord thinks about us and we consciously choose to live as He directs. According to Robert B. Thieme, Jr., “Godliness is the virtuous manner of life that results from devotion to God—the lifestyle of the Christian growing in grace, relying upon divine power, applying divine viewpoint to circumstances, and thereby fulfilling God's will and plan (2 Tim 3:5; Tit 1:1; 2 Pet 1:3; 3:11).”[3]      Paul prioritizes godliness, declaring it “is profitable for all things, since it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come” (1 Tim 4:8b). The word discipline in 1 Timothy 4:7 translates the Greek verb gumnazō (γυμνάζω), which we bring into the English as gymnasium. In secular use, it referred to how athletes trained in the ancient world, buffeting their bodies to improve their physique that they might have a chance at winning in a sport. However, in the New Testament, the word was used of training one's mental and spiritual abilities. The focus is on inward development of mind and character rather than the outward enhancement of the body. And the discipline is to be ongoing (present tense), carried out by each believer (active voice), and executed as a directive by the Lord (imperative mood). For Paul, godliness does not happen accidentally, but is connected with “the teaching that promotes godliness” (1 Tim 6:3), and “the knowledge of the truth which leads to godliness” (Tit 1:1). It is learned and lived on a daily basis.      The disciplined Christian develops over time, as biblical thinking leads to righteous acts, and righteous acts develop into godly habits, and godly habits produce godly character. Spiritual disciplines bring us to the place of spiritual maturity, which is God's desire for us (Heb 6:1). The writer to the Hebrews references mature believers, saying, “solid food is for the mature, who because of practice have their senses trained to discern good and evil” (Heb 5:14). Maturity translates the Greek adjective teleios (τέλειος) which denotes one who has attained a level of spiritual growth, which is witnessed in the daily application God's Word (Heb 4:1-2). Mature Christians are what they are because of practice and training. The word “practice” translates the Greek noun hexis (ἕξις), which, according to Louw-Nida, refers to “a repeated activity—practice, doing again and again, doing repeatedly.”[4] And the word “trained” translates the Greek verb gumnazō (γυμνάζω), which, according to Louw-Nida,  means “to experience vigorous training and control…to train, to undergo discipline.”[5] The advancing Christian eventually reaches a place of maturity when he/she is able “to discern good and evil” (Heb 5:14c). Thomas Constable states, “A person becomes a mature Christian, not only by gaining information, though that is foundational, but by using that information to make decisions that are in harmony with God's will.”[6] According to Arnold Fruchtenbaum: "A mature believer is one who is of full age spiritually. The Greek word for full-grown men is “goal.” A mature believer has attained the goal of his spiritual life because he did apply what he knew and was, therefore, open to learning more. Spiritual maturity is a result of careful exercise: for full-grown men, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern good and evil. A mature believer has the ability to make responsible decisions. The obligation of verse 14 is for all believers to make proper use of what they know…Usage of the Word causes believers to progress from immaturity to maturity; a lack of usage means regressing from maturity to immaturity."[7] Warren Wiersbe adds: "As we grow in the Word, we learn to use it in daily life. As we apply the Word, we exercise our “spiritual senses” and develop spiritual discernment. It is a characteristic of little children that they lack discernment. A baby will put anything into its mouth. An immature believer will listen to any preacher on the radio or television and not be able to identify whether or not he is true to the Scriptures. Just as our physical bodies have senses without which we could not function, so our inner “spiritual man” has “spiritual senses.”…As we feed on the Word of God and apply it in daily life, our inner “spiritual senses” get their exercise and become strong and keen. Paul called this process exercising ourselves unto godliness (1 Tim 4:7–8)."[8]      As growing Christians, we understand that God's Word is the standard for right thinking and conduct (orthodoxy and orthopraxy), and learning and living His Word by faith is the key to spiritual advance. As a growing Christian I want to be wise in the ways of God and His Word. But this requires commitment and many choices throughout my life. I realize the wise are wise by choice and never by chance. That is, no one is accidentally wise. This is also true for being just, loving, gracious, kind, and merciful, for these and other godly virtues are the product of many good choices over years of practice.      The successful Christian life starts with positive volition. Jesus said, “If anyone is willing to do His will, he will know of the teaching, whether it is of God or whether I speak from Myself” (John 7:17). The word “willing” translates the Greek verb thelō (θέλω), which, according to Louw & Nida, means “to desire to have or experience something—to desire, to want, to wish.”[9] To be “willing” to know and do God's will is the starting place for our advance to spiritual maturity. Our next step is to dig into God's Word and learn it. Jeremiah expressed positive volition when he said, “Your words were found and I ate them, and Your words became for me a joy and the delight of my heart” (Jer 15:16a). A psalmist wrote, “How sweet are Your words to my taste! Yes, sweeter than honey to my mouth!” (Psa 119:103), and “The law of Your mouth is better to me than thousands of gold and silver pieces” (Psa 119:72). Peter wrote, “like newborn babies, long for the pure milk of the word, so that by it you may grow in respect to salvation” (1 Pet 2:2). Learning God's Word serves as the basis for right living (Rom 12:1-2). Once we learn it, we must walk in it, which means applying it to our lives (Jam 1:22), and this by faith (2 Cor 5:7; Heb 10:38; 11:6). Ezra is a good example of a believer who learned and lived God's Word, as it is written, “Ezra had set his heart to study the law of the LORD and to practice it, and to teach His statutes and ordinances in Israel” (Ezra 7:10). When it states that Ezra had “set his heart,” it meant he had positive volition and was determined to learn and live God's Word. This is the proper order. When a Christian has a right will (orthothely), and operates with right thinking (orthodoxy), it establishes the basis for right behavior (orthopraxy). Positive volition, divine viewpoint thinking, and the walk of faith are what the Lord desires for us. When these are present, maturity will be achieved, it's just a matter of testing and time. Dr. Steven R. Cook     [1] Charles C. Ryrie, Dr. Ryrie's Articles (Bellingham, WA: Logos Bible Software, 2010), 91. [2] Wendell G. Johnston, “Spirituality,” The Theological Wordbook, 334–335. [3] Robert B. Thieme, Jr. “Godliness”, Thieme's Bible Doctrine Dictionary, (Houston, TX., R. B. Thieme, Jr., Bible Ministries, 2022), 111. [4] Johannes P. Louw and Eugene Albert Nida, Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament: Based on Semantic Domains (New York: United Bible Societies, 1996), 511. [5] Ibid., 466. [6] Tom Constable, Tom Constable's Expository Notes on the Bible (Galaxie Software, 2003), Heb 5:14. [7] Arnold G. Fruchtenbaum, The Messianic Jewish Epistles: Hebrews, James, First Peter, Second Peter, Jude, 1st ed. (Tustin, CA: Ariel Ministries, 2005), 70. [8] Warren W. Wiersbe, The Bible Exposition Commentary, vol. 2 (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1996), 295. [9] Johannes P. Louw and Eugene Albert Nida, Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament: Based on Semantic Domains, 287.

Topics: Catholic, Catholicism, Catholic Church, Roman Catholic, Pray to Saints, Constantine, Mother Mary, 1 Kings 2, Access Through King Through Mother, Asking Mary to Ask Jesus, Asking Dead Saints to Pray for Them, Closer to God than Humans, We Are Just as Close, One With God, 1 Corinthians 6:17, No Difference in Asking the Dead for Prayer, Necromancy, Galatians 5:20, Not a Deed of the Spirit, 1 Timothy 2:1 is About People Who Are Alive, Pagan Tribes Pray to Dead Ancestors, Hebrews 11 Isn't People Who Pray for Us, Obsessing over the Saints Doesn't Make Much of Jesus, Nobody Comes to the Father Except Through Me, John 14:6, Categorizing Sins, Venial and Mortal, Every Sin is Mortal, Romans 6:23, Romans 1 Gossip to Murder, Romans 14:23 Anything That's Not of Faith is Sin, Every Sin Equals Death, Jesus Died, Romans 6:9-10, Jesus Died Once, Christ Suffered Once for Sins to Make Your Righteous and Bring You to God, 1 Peter 3:18, Top-Down Authority System, After John Died Authority System Established Through Ignatius of Antioch, Matthew 20:25-26, You Will Not Lord Over One Another With Authority, It Will Not Be Like This Among you, If you Want to be Great You Must Serve, Even Christ Did Not Come to Be Served but to Serve, The Word Bishop Established with Power, Don't Do Anything Without Bishop Present, Regard the Bishop the Same as the Lord, It is UnLawful to Perform Baptisms Without the Bishop Present, John Calvin Echoed Ignatius of Antioch with the Word Pastor, Bishop Not in the Bible, 1 Timothy 3:1, Episcopon, Overseer, If Anyone Aspires to be and Overseer it is a Noble Task, This is Not an Office, Office is Not in Original Text of 1 Timothy 3:1, No Offices in the Body of Christ, Roman Imperialism Superimposed onto the Body of Christ, Hebrews 7:23 is Office of the Levites for Temple Work, Death Prevented Them From Continuing, Mature Christians, Honorable to Oversee Christians but No Authority, Similar to Sponsor in AA, No Authority or Control, Christian Classes, Clergy and Laity Distinction, One Body With Many Members and Only Christ is the Head, 1 Corinthians 11-14, Nobody is in Charge, Gave Priests Their Own Church, Priests not In Charge of Anything on This Side of The Cross, 1 Peter 2:9, Members of a Royal Priesthood, Before the Cross Priests Didn't Have any Power or their Own Church, Covenant-Mixture Theologian Cyprian of Carthage, Christian Temples, You Cannot Go to What You Are, Nothing in the Bible Describes Church Today, Mass Created by Gregory the Great in 6th Century, Constantine Erected Countless Church Buildings to Make Christians Valid, Cathedra is Bishop's Throne, Cathedral is House of the Bishop's Throne, Modeled After Romand Basilicas, Official if Built On Top of Saints or Body Part of Saint in the Altar Table, Cologne Took Over 600 Years to Build and God Still Doesn't Live there, Acts 7:48, Acts 17:24, You Are the Temple of God, 1 Corinthians 3:16, 1 Corinthians 6:19, If You Leave Catholic Church You Won't be Saved, Original Church, How Cults Work, Unbiblical Because of Hebrews 7:25, He is Able to Save Completely Because He Always Lives, Catholic is Not in the Bible, Roman Catholic, Romans Didn't Start Jesus' Church they Killed Him, The Original Church is the Ecclesia, The Living Organism, The Called Out Ones, Those Who House God Almighty in their Very Being And Express Him, The Body of Christ Support the Show.Sign up for Matt's free daily devotional! https://mattmcmillen.com/newsletter

Pastor Josh Griffith preaching live from Still Water Baptist Church on 7/10/24

Associate Pastor Devin Warfield shares from Philippians 3 on characteristics of mature Christians. Mature Christians press on and they have confidence in Christ. June 2, 2024

In this episode, Duane discusses spiritual growth, emphasizing the journey from immaturity to maturity in the Christian faith. He explains that this growth is about increasing knowledge, deepening character, and becoming more like Christ. This process involves moving from spiritual immaturity, where believers may be easily swayed by incorrect teachings or worldly influences, to a mature understanding and application of biblical truths.Spiritual immaturity is like being a child in faith. Like young children, new believers need simple, foundational teachings, which he compares to milk. These basics are essential for starting their spiritual journey. However, staying in this stage too long can lead to a lack of depth and susceptibility to being misled. As in the physical world, where children grow and develop, spiritual growth requires moving beyond the basics to tackle more complex and substantial "food," Duane calls meat.Transitioning to spiritual maturity involves embracing and applying deeper biblical teachings—meat. Maturity is a believer's ability to handle complex situations with wisdom, reflect Christ's character in daily actions, and positively influence others toward Christ. Mature believers should not only focus on their growth but also support and mentor less mature ones, helping them grow in their faith and understanding.Christians are expected to grow from spiritual infants to mature adults in their faith. This growth is not just for personal benefit but is essential to discern truth and fulfill God's purpose for each believer, which is to reflect Christ's image to the world.Mature Christians navigate life's challenges effectively and help others do the same. The goal of every believer should be to reach a point where they are not just consuming spiritual milk but are also capable of digesting spiritual meat, thereby achieving a deeper understanding and application of God's word.

What are the characteristics of a mature Christian. 

The disposition of a mature Christian comes from a unified doctrine. The deployment of mature Christians leads to unified service. The development of mature Christians makes up a unified church.  A mature Christian's disposition A mature Christian's deployment A mature Christian's development  Life Group Discussion:Who do you know that is clearly marked with love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, and gentleness? What makes you say that? Would someone think about you?  Where have you been deployed in the body to use your gifts? If you haven't deployed your gifts, ask your LG how they see God using you in the body. Are you in a season where you are a weak part of the body? Share with your LG and let them pray for you during this difficult season. Take a step forward in growing your faith. Don't just “go” to church, but “be” the church.

The disposition of a mature Christian comes from a unified doctrine. The deployment of mature Christians leads to unified service. The development of mature Christians makes up a unified church.  A mature Christian's disposition A mature Christian's deployment A mature Christian's development  Life Group Discussion:Who do you know that is clearly marked with love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, and gentleness? What makes you say that? Would someone think about you?  Where have you been deployed in the body to use your gifts? If you haven't deployed your gifts, ask your LG how they see God using you in the body. Are you in a season where you are a weak part of the body? Share with your LG and let them pray for you during this difficult season. Take a step forward in growing your faith. Don't just “go” to church, but “be” the church.

Our growing mind awaits our coming King!

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“Pirates and How to Fight Them”James 1:1-18“Mature Christians rely on God for wisdom in trials”Intro to JamesVs 5-7: How to fight the pirates and get wisdom:* Ask wholeheartedly* Be of one mind* Trust in God's characterQuestions to reflect on: How have you received wisdom from God in the past? How can you ensure that when you ask God for wisdom you are of one mind? How can you increase your trust in God's character?

This is not about an 80s sitcom, but instead something much better! Listen in as we go after growing into mature disciples in our relationship with Jesus. 

God's sword will be on the righteous as well as the wicked. Know the work of God. The righteous shall be saved.

How to Win at Life Today, Pastor Michael is talking about life. How we are created for a purpose.  If we are not pursuing that purpose, everything else will never satisfy us. The win is in surrender.  Surrending to God.  What is that area of your life that you don't want God to take control of?  What do you not want to let go of?   In our attempt to save our lives, we lose our lives.  If we don't embrace God's purpose, we lose on earth and in eternity.  We honestly have it backward. We feel that accumulating things, making money, and living large make us special.  It's living for OURSELVES.   Living for yourself, is empty,  in the end.  It's time to let it go. (CSB Disciple's Study Bible Notes) The keynote of the Christian life is surrender. To deny oneself is not a call to a colorless life. Rather it is a call to deny the baser nature and pursue the higher levels of ethical standards to which Jesus points. This paradox of finding life by losing it is open to the test of experience. Mature Christians attest to its validity. Verses can be found in Mark 8: 35-38. Scripture quotations marked CSB have been taken from the Christian Standard Bible®, Copyright © 2017 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by permission. Christian Standard Bible® and CSB® are federally registered trademarks of Holman Bible Publishers.   

End Times Talk --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/aei-leon/message

Mature Christians understand the spiritual battle we are in, always assured of the enemy's defeat and the foolishness of trusting in anything less than the Sovereign Christ.

Mature Christians understand the spiritual battle we are in, always assured of the enemy's defeat and the foolishness of trusting in anything less than the Sovereign Christ.

As Paul wraps up his letter to the Romans, we can see (at least) five principles he lives by that help him remain strong in his faith in his ministry. Are you doing all of these? For more information please visit mercyhouse365.org

Mature Christians must be discerning to rightly understand the biblical teaching on the Holy Spirit's person and works, both past and present.

Returning to our series in Romans today Pastor Mark brings us the first of (at least) two sermons regarding this text and theme in chapter 7. Consider with us the dilemma of understanding and rectifying the apparent contradiction of what Paul wrote in chapters 6 & 8 versus this section of chapter 7. Consider with us three proposed solutions of the dilemma, the solution that Pastor Mark believes to be the most faithful manner to understand this text, and two implications for the Christian life.

Love builds up- Another concern in the church at Corinth was the matter of what to do with food offered to idols? Mature Christians may have felt the liberty to eat certain foods without condemnation, but Paul warned against becoming a stumbling block to those younger in the faith.

1 John 2:12-14Rev. Erik Veerman1/1/2023Because You Know and You AreWe're back in the book of 1 John for our sermon text. It's been a few weeks. Although, it seems like it's been a few months. I'm glad to have our church move mostly behind us.By the way, we have some Bible available in the back, if you didn't pick one up, feel free to do so now. Our reading is from 1 John 2:12-14. It's found on page 1210 of the provided Bibles. As you are turning there, let me give you some reminders. The apostle John wrote this letter to his home church. Likely that was the church in Ephesus where he lived. 1 John is one of the last letters written in the New Testament… written at the very end of the first century. John was in his mid-90s at the time. Imagine that. The last living disciple of Jesus. I think you would agree, he was very with it. That comes out in his letter.Our banner behind me captures the theological heart of John's letter. It's from chapter 1. “God is light and in him is no darkness.” John is very clear about (1) who God is and (2) who Jesus is, and John is very clear about what true Christianity looks like. That's the second part of the quote on our 1 John banner. The call to “walk in the light.” To not walk in darkness. To walk in the light of God and his Gospel.We're in the middle of chapter 2 this morning. It's more of a side comment that John is making. It has some very encouraging reminders for us.Let's now turn our attention to God's Word. This is God's Holy Word. His sufficient, inspired, and inerrant word. Please stand.Reading of 1 John 2:12-14Prayer.My Christmas gift to Amy this year was a washing machine. It wasn't a hint. She loves it. In fact, I didn't buy her a new washing machine. Instead, I bought her a 23-year-old washing machine. Let me borrow the words of verse 7, “I am giving you no new washing machine, but an old washing machine that you had from the very beginning.”This thing has a very powerful motor in it. When it's doing its thing, it really agitates your clothes. Especially when you set it for heavy dirt. The most important feature is that you tell it how much water to put in it. If you have a small load but the clothes are really dirty, you can max out the water to get your clothes clean. I think the old adage is true, they don't make them like they used to.So far, 1 John has been like a heavy-duty washing machine.Here's what I mean: the church at the time was living in the gap. It was around the turn of the first century. It had been about 65 years since Jesus walked on the earth. All the apostles, except John had passed into glory. But at the same time, the New Testament had yet to be formed. Some letters and a couple of the historical accounts of Jesus life had begun circulating, but there was a void.As a result, two kinds of corruption began to emerge in the church. First, false beliefs about God, about Jesus, and about salvation. Because there was no the New Testament yet to evaluate truth from error, multiple perversions of the truth began to emerge. The second corruption in the church was about their living. Their words and action were not lining up with true belief.This must have pained the apostle John so much. He had spent three years with Jesus. He heard and he witnessed the Word made flesh, as he calls Jesus in chapter 1. John had seen Jesus demonstrate what it means to follow him.John knew that the church needed to be cleansed from the impurities. There were false teachers and false witnesses that needed to be dealt with. But think about it. That's complicated. John needed to call out false beliefs and practice, while, at the same time, build up the true believers and their desire to practice righteousness.To do that, John puts the church into the washing machine of sorts. That is this letter. The church needed to be cleansed from false belief and practice. So John needed to be very clear. This is what is true, this is what is false. Evaluate your own life.We are in the middle of four life tests. We've already looked at test #1 - the tests of obedience. Remember that one? The beginning of chapter 2. The call to keep God's Word and his commandments.We've also considered test #2 – the test of love. That's verses 7-11. The call to love your brothers and sisters. Remember that test? A true believer who is walking in the light, seeks to love others. To be sure, John has been really clear that we all still sin. What John is saying is that these tests of true faith is demonstrated by your heart's desire to pursue these things and demonstrating that desire.Let me go back to the washing machine. It's like we've been in the agitation stage. You know how that works. Your dirty clothes get immersed in soapy water. And then the washing machine stirs them, agitates them… the goal is loosen up the dirt … that's how clothes get clean. Imagine being a piece of clothing. John has been stirring you up… in a good way, mind you. He wants to dig deep into your life. He wants you to evaluate your heart and mind. But you may feel a little shaken.And that's where verses 12-14 come in. This is the soaking phase. The last thing that the apostle wants to do for a true believer is take away your assurance of faith. No, one of his main points is to assure you if you truly know him. But his straight-forward-ness has been a little jolting. So now, John wants you to soak in the true Gospel. He wants you to embrace God and be reminded of his forgiveness.Now, John is going to turn the agitator back on. Next week will be the third life test – the test of the world. The week after next will be the fourth life test – the test of doctrine. But before the motor spins back up, John wants to soak you in the soapy water of the Gospel. He wants to assure you, believer in Jesus, of God's grace. He wants the Gospel to seep deep into the core of your being. He wants you to stand firm on its truth and its grace.That's what these verses are about. To build you up and remind you of God's grace. Isn't this a great message for New Year's day? Ok, let's focus in on these verses. And let's consider them from two angles. Two points that summarize John's message here.First, Knowing of Your Security - That's a big emphasis in this book. The assurance of God for those who know the light and walk in the light. Again, number 1 knowing of your security.And second, Growing in Your Maturity - There's a progression here in these verses. A spiritual maturity that is presented. It gives us a vision for what God will do in us as we spiritually mature in him. So that's number two. Growing in your mature.Again, number one, knowing of your security. And number two, growing in your maturity.1. Knowing of Your SecuritySo, let's jump in to that first point.One thing that is very apparent in John's writings, is that he is really pastoral. He loves those to whom he is writing. He calls them beloved many times. They are his spiritual children. Multiple times in this book, he calls them children. God's children, his children. He's not saying they are immature; he's saying they are his beloved spiritual offspring. God's children. He wants them to know that God loves them. These verses are the epitome of John's expression of his love and care.And besides children, he calls them young men and fathers. To be sure, this is not John just writing to the men in the church. Rather, these are terms that are broadly applicable to both men and women. It's like the word “brothers” which is used in several New Testament letters. Even though it's a masculine tense, it refers to brother and sister in Christ.It's the same idea here. Fathers and mothers in the faith. Young men and young women in the faith. It's a very personal appeal to the faithful believers. And these are words not just for John's original audience. No, they are words for you, believer in Jesus. Words for me. Words for us to hold on to, dearly. Words to build us up. To give us the surety of faith in Christ.Now, look at the verses here. There are six “because” statements here. John is writing because of this reason. And because of that reason. And because of another reason. There is a progression here. We're going to get into that progression in point number 2. But for now, I want you to notice two general categories, two general reasons why John wrote this letter.Knowing and receiving.That word “know” is repeated three times. I write to you because you “know him who is from the beginning.” That is repeated in verses 13 and 14. It's referring to Jesus. John is pointing back to the very opening verse of his letter! He spoke of Jesus, whom John said was “from the beginning.“ He was saying there that if you know Christ, you know the eternal life that is found in him alone. If you know Jesus, you know the word made flesh who was from the beginning.But John also adds, “I am writing to you… because you know the Father.” It's not just the Son of God that you know, you know God the Father. The providential, loving Father who superintends all things for his glory and your good.I write to you because you truly know God. You know Jesus and you know his heavenly Father.And the benefits of truly knowing God is what you receive in him. What he has given you. In other words, your status in him. That's the other general reason why John wrote this letter.You see it right there in verse 12. I write to you “because your sins are forgiven.” Your status is forgiven. Freed. Redeemed. Restored. Delivered. Rescued. You are no longer under the weight of sin and its consequences. You are forgiven for Jesus' sake.Then twice John adds, “I am writing…because you have overcome the evil one.” That is another part of the blessing and benefit of knowing God in Christ. The great enemy of the faith no longer has dominion over you. You are more than conquerors in him. So, your status is forgiven and you have overcome the evil one… And both of those come through what Jesus has done for you. His atoning sacrificial payment for your sin is how you are forgiven. His conquering of death through his resurrection is how you have overcome the evil one.What John is saying is that you can rest assured in the finished work of Christ. Jesus himself put it this way, “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand.”Beloved in Christ, you know this Jesus, you know his Father. And because of that, you are his, forever. Forgiven and assured that the great enemy of God, the devil himself, will never overcome you.And there's something endearing about the repetition here. I was thinking about the movie Good Will Hunting. Matt Damon plays a young man named Will. He's had a rough life. He was physically abused by his father. He's brilliant, but very rough around the edges and of course, has deep-seated pain and mistrust. Will's counsellor, Sean, is played by Robin Williams. He's a father figure but himself was abused as a child. So, he has a level of understanding. Probably the most well-known scene of the movie is when the counsellor Sean tells Will that it is “not his fault.” …what happened to him. Will responds “yeah, I know.” Sean says it again, “it's not your fault.” Again, Will responds, “yeah, I know” Again, “It's not your fault” …“I know, stop messing with me” Will starts to get angry. But yet Sean moves closer and closer to him and again says “It's not your fault.” Over and over. Finally, Will breaks down in tears and they embrace. You see, Will knew the answer, but he hadn't fully believed it.I am writing to you, beloved, because you know Jesus.I am writing to you, dear ones, because you know the Father.I am writing to you, my children, because your sins are forgiven.Hear me. I write to you. Notice the change in verb tense in the middle of verse 13. John is emphasizing his point. I write to you because you know Jesus, you know the Father, you are forgiven. You have overcome the evil one. Be confident that you know him, and rest in his security forever.Is your assurance just something you repeat because someone told you that you have assurance? Or do you believe that you are secure in Christ. If you know him, he abides in you and you in him. And he will never let you go.It's like John is saying this: “I'm not writing to shake your faith. I'm not writing for you to question your faith. No, rather, I am writing because I want you to have the utmost confidence in God. I know that my words so far have been strongly worded. But beloved in Christ, they needed to be strongly worded. Your fellowship has been infected with beliefs contrary to the truth of God in Christ. And some in your fellowship are not displaying lives that reflect true faith in Christ. But for those of you who know Christ Jesus, who believe in the forgiveness of sins through him. You are his. He is yours. Nothing can take that away!”You are secure in him. Knowing of your security.2. Growing in Your MaturityAnd that bring us to point number 2. Growing in your maturity.There's something that happens in you the more and more you know that you are secure in Christ. And it's this: you grow in your spiritual maturity in him.Let's take a step back for a minute. The three categories of people that John is addressing are children – little children, it says here, young men, which includes young women, and fathers, which includes mothers. I do not believe these are referencing someone's age, or whether they have children. No, rather, I believe these categories are referring to someone's spiritual maturity. Children in the faith. Young men and young women who are growing in their spiritual maturity. And fathers and mothers of the faith. Not necessarily people who have had children, but spiritual fathers, spiritual mothers.For children, those young in the faith, John writes two things. “Your sins are forgiven” and “you know the Father.” These are two things that new believers are often overjoyed with. The amazing forgiveness of God and how God is a loving Father. Maybe you are a new believer in Christ. You came to him because of the love with which the Father loved you in giving his son for you, to redeem you. Or maybe you look back and you remember those feelings of joy knowing God's forgiveness in Christ and the deep sense of the Father's embrace. These are some of the first things that we experience as new believers. God, our loving Father, and the forgiveness we have in His son.But as you mature in your faith, God gives you more. Look at the description of young men. First, John writes – “you have overcome the evil one.” He says that twice for young men. It's also there at the very end of verse 14. You see, the great enemy of faith, the devil, does not want you to mature in your faith. No, he will attack you. He wants you to question your faith. He will tempt you to fall back into patterns of sin. The mark of a maturing believer is overcoming those temptation. Notice how John puts it in verse 14. “You are strong.” In other words, you've begun to demonstrate your faith. And he adds, “the Word of God abides in you.” That is where a maturing believer goes… to God's Word. It is the mark of a maturing faith. A desire to know God's Word more and more. The Scriptures will direct you in evaluating truth from error, instruct you in how to pursue Godliness in your life, and remind you of God's grace and assurance over and over. Maturing believers in Christ display a growing strength of faith, overcoming temptations, and display a growing desire to know God's Word.So, first children in the faith and second young and maturing believers. And the third category is fathers in the faith. Mature Christians. By the way, kids, you don't have to be old as dirt to be in this category. It does take time, to be sure. Years… perhaps decades. As you grow and mature in your faith, you will demonstrate your sensitivity to the Holy Spirit, you will show your desire to pursue God and his Word, you will display a willingness to be discipled by others in the faith, including your parents. Then over time, you will grow into a father or mother in the faith. You will become one who nurtures others and cares for them in the faith.Notice there's just one phrase associated with these fathers in the faith. It's mentioned twice: “you know him who is from the beginning.” Now, that may seem simple…. but I want to suggest it is rich and deep.I've already mentioned that it refers to the opening of the letter. In those words, John has given us a full description of Christ - the fulness of his deity as God; the amazing testimony of the incarnation – the Word made flesh; John calls Jesus the Word of life because he brings eternal life. It tells us of the fellowship of God within the Trinity, and the breadth of God's ministry through Christ as light.Do you see? • The more and more we mature as believers, the more and more deeply we understand and know God in Christ… in all the wonder and amazement of his person and work, his being and presence; his glory and power. • The more and more we know his Word the more and more we know him as the Word. • The more and more we understand the atoning work of the cross, the more and more we are amazed at the undeserved grace we have in him. • And the more and more we mature in him, the more and more assurance we derive from him, through all of life, in the joys and sorrows, the grief and hope… looking to him, the author and perfector of our faith. Who for the joy set before him, endured the cross, despised the shame, and is now seated at the right hand of God the Father.What an exciting thing to look forward to as you mature in your faith. To know him more and more. Beloved in Christ, this maturity in him is for you. You see, the assurance that John is writing to you about is paired with the blessing of maturity that you can have in him. As you seek him more and more through his Word, living in his grace, he will bless you with a deepening maturity in him.Know of your security, but also grow in your maturity.ConclusionWell, the apostle John is about to turn the dial again… back to the agitator. And pretty soon after that, the spin cycle. But through it all, his desire is to cleanse the church, to purify her as a bride ready for her savior – the bridegroom, Jesus himself.So, as we continue to be challenged in our beliefs, in our lives and action…. may we know that it is for our good, and God's glory. And may we also be assured… believer in Christ, may you rest secure because you know God in Christ and you are forgiven and redeemed in him. Amen?

Speaking is a central part of being a Christian. We are called upon to share the Gospel, disciple other, and praise God. All of these things, in some way, shape, or form, require the use of our words. It's vitally important that if we want to progress in our maturity we need to get a hold of our tongue.Follow my ministry with InFaith by going to:https://www.facebook.com/DennisInFaithIf you have any questions or comments that you'd like me to address you can shoot me an email to dennissutherby@infaith.orgAnd if you'd like to support my ministry with InFaith you can text the word "discipleship" to 41444 or head over to https://infaith.org/dennis-sutherby and give there. Theme Music:Overseas by Vlad Gluschenko | https://soundcloud.com/vgl9Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.comCreative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported Licensehttps://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en_USSupport the show

I've (Andy) been almost begging older, knowledgeable, and discipleship minded Christians to come to our church lately, and it's been a surprisingly difficult sell. Why am I doing this? Well, I am a pastor of a small church that intentionally seeks to be an outpost of Christianity. We have committed to historic and orthodox Christian faith, but we have also committed to placing ourselves on the “edge” of the Church, where skeptics might dip their toes in and ask questions, and where struggling believers might stop to ask their hard questions before they make a decision to leave the faith. To our surprise, especially this calendar year (2022), these folks have been not only engaging with us relationally, but coming to church. We have had somewhere in the neighborhood of fifty formerly religious folks or unbelievers (Sigmund Freud's term for them, not mine) show up to worship, and most of them have reported liking it. That may not seem like a lot, but as I mentioned, we are a pretty small church. Almost every single week I'm looking out and thinking, “Who's that?” We've been attempting to be this kind of church for about nine years, and this has never happened to this degree before now.  (Read More)Support the show

Tuesday, November 29, 2022

Tuesday, November 29, 2022

Monday, November 28, 2022

Monday, November 28, 2022

In this episode, Dr. Kathy mentions how generosity and gratitude are related. Gratitude is the distinguishing mark of mature Christians as they tend to be grateful. Mature Christians live a Christlike life and are grateful for God's effect in their lives, and they understand that God is the source. To train your kids to be mature Christians, you need to emphasize gratitude as a character quality.

This message is taken from 1 Peter 4:1-11. Peter reminds us of Christ Sufferings and the great cost of our Salvation. We should no longer live like the days of our past. Time to Grow up. Change. Become. To stay in an infantile state after years of supposed service unto the Lord is unnatural. Not only that, but it is visible to all. We can't fake it until we make it. This is a no holds barred message which will challenge every believer to level up.

1 Corinthians 10:1-11:1 - Speaker: Lukus Counterman - Paul is wrapping up a lengthy section from 1 Corinthians 8:1-11:1 on the topic of Christian liberty. He wants believers to do more than just ask “Is this permissible?” He wants them to think through things like what effect does the expression of this freedom have on other Christians, the advance of the gospel, and my own spiritual life? Mature Christians move beyond mere permissibility and think through edification, mission, and spiritual health. What we are going to learn in 1 Corinthians 10 this week is that in order to grow up spiritually, we need to start handling our liberties with caution yet confidence, firmness yet flexibility. May the Lord help us to live in a way that glorifies him in all we do.

Have you ever been rubbed the wrong way? Feel super vexed about what a person said to you? I get it. God's truth is hard to hear. As we grow in our walk with Jesus, let's walk away from worldly attitudes. A simple concept that people are just hurting... Mature Christians see this as an opportunity to be a light, but offensiveness would rather argue in darkness. Find out the 3 Positive P's as a Christ follower! Blessings xo- Christian Counseling & Consulting -> https://meliadiana.com/our-service Books-> https://meliadiana.com/books VR Ministries -> https://meliadiana.com/vertical-relationship-ministries Courses -> https://meliadiana.com/vertical-relationship-academy