Podcasts about new testament christianity

Join us as Michael Grooms delivers part 2 of his lesson titled, "New Testament Christianity."

Join us as Michael Grooms delivers part 1 of his lesson titled, "New Testament Christianity."

If we are going to be dedicated to the restoration of New Testament Christianity, that must also include the mindset of the early church.  Our efforts must be about more than just practices and rules, but about the dedication, love, and fellowship that the church displayed at the beginning. Speaker: Justin P. Sivley

Send us a textFor an ad-free version of the podcast plus the opportunity to enjoy hours of exclusive content and two bonus episodes a month and also help keep the Bible Project Daily Podcast free  for listeners everywhere at;patreon.com/JeremyMcCandlessSubscribe here to receive my new church history podcast every few weeks at.https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.comWelcome back to another episode of The Biblle Project daily Podcast. I'm excited to have you with us today as we explore a pivotal moment in the history of the early church. In today's episode, titled "The Most Important Decision in the History of the Church," we will be diving into Acts 15:1-35, commonly known as the Jerusalem Council.Throughout history, the church has faced numerous disputes, some minor and some major, that have shaped its course. The dispute we will examine today is one of the most significant, as it determined the future direction of Christianity itself. Understanding this dispute and the decision made at the Jerusalem Council is crucial for grasping the essence of New Testament Christianity and its implications for our lives today.Join me as we delve into this fascinating and transformative chapter in church history. Let's discover how the early church leaders addressed the question of whether Gentile converts needed to adhere to the Mosaic Law, and how their decision continues to impact our faith and practice.Episode Notes for "The Most Important Decision in the History of the Church":Episode Title: The Most Important Decision in the History of the ChurchScripture Reference: Acts 15:1-35Key Points:The Dispute:Certain individuals from Judea taught that Gentiles must be circumcised to be saved.Paul and Barnabas strongly disagreed, leading to a significant debate.The Jerusalem Council:Paul, Barnabas, and other believers were sent to Jerusalem to consult the apostles and elders.Peter, Barnabas, Paul, and James spoke at the council, emphasizing God's work among the Gentiles and the fulfillment of prophecy.The Decision:The council decided that Gentile converts did not need to be circumcised.A letter was sent to the Gentile believers, advising them to abstain from practices associated with idolatry and immorality.Impact on Christianity:The decision affirmed that salvation is by faith alone in Christ alone.It emphasized the inclusive nature of the gospel and laid the foundation for the global spread of Christianity.Reflection:Understanding the events of Acts 15 helps us appreciate the inclusive nature of the gospel and the foundational principle that salvation is through grace, not legalistic observance. This decision continues to influence how we live our lives as Christians today, reminding us to prioritize faith and love in our interactions with others.DiscussiThe Balance of GrayHow does faith fit into today's world? Peace & purpose are found in The Balance of Gray. Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showJeremy McCandless is creating podcasts and devotional resources | PatreonHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.com

True New Testament Christianity Acts 2:42-47 Back to the Book of Acts Series, A Study Through the Book of Acts 23 October 2024 - Wednesday Evening Dr. Brad Weniger, Pastor

Turkeys and Eagles, Part 2: Created to Be Like God MESSAGE SUMMARY:    Introduction – In Part 1 of this series, “Called as an ‘Eagle' But Saved as a ‘Turkey'” we learned, from the story about “Bubba the Eagle” and from relating this story to Ephesians 4, that many of us Christians have been “Turkeyized”. We learned that, rather than practicing New Testament Christianity, we have been practicing, in too many places, “Churchianity”. Now, we are looking at Paul's letter to the Ephesians to help break us out of this “Churchianity”. Rather than soaring with the eagles, too many of us are gobbling with the turkeys. Message – In this teaching today, we will look at “Created to Be Like God”. We live in a world that has many people with no desire to soar, and they will never reach the heights that God intended for us. Too many Christians are grounded because we have not been taught how to soar like an eagle. Now, “turkey thinking” posits that “living as a Christian is no different than living like everyone else”. However, “eagle thinking” posits that “as a Christian, I think different from everyone else” In Ephesians 4:17-18, “Now this I say and testify in the Lord, that you must no longer walk as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their minds. They are darkened in their understanding, alienated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them, due to their hardness of heart.”. Analogous for us today, we can substitute “nonbeliever” for “Gentile” in this passage. The key to how we live is how we think. This behavior is, also, illustrated in Romans 1:21 where Paul describes where he cannot tell if a group is really Christian because their thinking is so messed up. “Turkey thinking” says “I am a sinner always in need”, but “eagle thinking” says “I am created to be like God”. When becoming a follower of Jesus, we become a new creation, and the Spirit of God indwells us; therefore, God is in our lives as we live our lives. In this context, “turkey thinking” would say “I'm just a sinner and I'm stuck”; but “eagle thinking” says “I'm created in the image of God”. We should be different from those nonbelievers living in today's culture because we have Jesus living in us. However, many of us have been “Turkeyized”; but with Jesus in our lives, we can soar with the Eagles!   TODAY'S PRAYER: Lord, Sabbath rest is truly an unbelievable gift! Thank you that there is nothing I can do to earn your love; it comes without any strings attached. As I close my eyes for these few minutes before you, all I can say is, thank you! In Jesus' name, amen.    Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 133). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM A CHILD OF GOD. Yet to all who received Him, to those who believed in His Name, He gave the right to become children of God-- children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband's will, but born of God. John 1:12f SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV):  Ephesians 4:17-32; Romans 1:21-23; Genesis 2:5; Colossians 1:15-20; 2 Corinthians 5:17-21; Psalms 67:1-7. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S DAILY DEVOTIONAL – “For Jesus Followers, Fasting, with Food, Will Symbolize a Victory Over Oneself and Solidify a Personal Relationship with God”: at our website:  https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

Turkeys and Eagles, Part 2: Created to Be Like God MESSAGE SUMMARY:    Introduction – In Part 1 of this series, “Called as an ‘Eagle' But Saved as a ‘Turkey'” we learned, from the story about “Bubba the Eagle” and from relating this story to Ephesians 4, that many of us Christians have been “Turkeyized”. We learned that, rather than practicing New Testament Christianity, we have been practicing, in too many places, “Churchianity”. Now, we are looking at Paul's letter to the Ephesians to help break us out of this “Churchianity”. Rather than soaring with the eagles, too many of us are gobbling with the turkeys. Message – In this teaching today, we will look at “Created to Be Like God”. We live in a world that has many people with no desire to soar, and they will never reach the heights that God intended for us. Too many Christians are grounded because we have not been taught how to soar like an eagle. Now, “turkey thinking” posits that “living as a Christian is no different than living like everyone else”. However, “eagle thinking” posits that “as a Christian, I think different from everyone else” In Ephesians 4:17-18, “Now this I say and testify in the Lord, that you must no longer walk as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their minds. They are darkened in their understanding, alienated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them, due to their hardness of heart.”. Analogous for us today, we can substitute “nonbeliever” for “Gentile” in this passage. The key to how we live is how we think. This behavior is, also, illustrated in Romans 1:21 where Paul describes where he cannot tell if a group is really Christian because their thinking is so messed up. “Turkey thinking” says “I am a sinner always in need”, but “eagle thinking” says “I am created to be like God”. When becoming a follower of Jesus, we become a new creation, and the Spirit of God indwells us; therefore, God is in our lives as we live our lives. In this context, “turkey thinking” would say “I'm just a sinner and I'm stuck”; but “eagle thinking” says “I'm created in the image of God”. We should be different from those nonbelievers living in today's culture because we have Jesus living in us. However, many of us have been “Turkeyized”; but with Jesus in our lives, we can soar with the Eagles!   TODAY'S PRAYER: Lord, Sabbath rest is truly an unbelievable gift! Thank you that there is nothing I can do to earn your love; it comes without any strings attached. As I close my eyes for these few minutes before you, all I can say is, thank you! In Jesus' name, amen.    Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 133). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: Today, I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM A CHILD OF GOD. Yet to all who received Him, to those who believed in His Name, He gave the right to become children of God-- children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband's will, but born of God. John 1:12f SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV):  Ephesians 4:17-32; Romans 1:21-23; Genesis 2:5; Colossians 1:15-20; 2 Corinthians 5:17-21; Psalms 67:1-7. A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S DAILY DEVOTIONAL – “For Jesus Followers, Fasting, with Food, Will Symbolize a Victory Over Oneself and Solidify a Personal Relationship with God”: at our website:  https://awordfromthelord.org/listen/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

Duncan Campbell defines revival as a community saturated with the presence of God and the restoration of New Testament Christianity in times of decline. In this talk, Joel encourages us to have the faith that revival is possible in London, and that every person has a part to play.

Do you want to know an unconditional love? Do you want to know an end to restlessness in your heart and the emptiness in your soul? There is no job, person, or accomplishment that can fill that place inside of you. You need to come near to Jesus and let Him speak to your heart. No one is off limits to God. More than you may have realised God wants to help you and show you His amazing grace and favour.  One of the most well-known stories in the Bible that underlines this truth is found in the gospel of John 4:1-30 and 39-42. It still carries a significant message for us today. Jesus was a much-in-demand preacher and miracle worker in the first century in what we know today as Israel and the West Bank. Huge crowds followed Him. But some of His most powerful ministry was in one-to-one personal encounters and conversations.   Jesus was heading back to Galilee and took a shortcut through a place which Jews often avoided, called Samaria. This was a purposeful and fairly radical act for reasons that we'll see soon. But he did something even more surprising; he got into conversation with a lady with a pretty bad reputation.   But this conversation was to change the life of this woman and her community. It began with Jesus sitting by a well and asking her for a drink of the water that she was drawing from the well (John 4:4-10). We can learn some simple and powerful lessons from this story:   1. Jesus came to show us God's love is for all people (John 4:9; John 3:16; Acts 10:34; John 4:16-18) 2. Jesus came to satisfy us (John 4:10-15; John 6:35; John 7:37-38; John 4:25-26) 3. Jesus came to save us (John 4:28-30)  Apply    1. Jesus came to show us God's love is for all people. He loves people of every race (John 4:9). Historically Jews despised Samaritans. There were longstanding prejudices and often deep hatred between Jews and Samaritans. When the Assyrian empire captured Samaria, which had been the capital of the northern kingdom of Israel, they deported many Jews, and foreigners were brought into the land. So the Jews didn't want anything to do with a people they despised and who represented betrayal for their nation. They would do anything to avoid travelling through Samaria and having social contact. That's why this woman was so startled and questioned Him. She was really saying: Don't you know about the realities of ethnic, tribal and racial differences?' It didn't matter to Jesus, all he saw was the person. He loved people no matter what country or culture they came from (John 3:16; Acts 10:34). And today God is for you and loves you no matter what the colour of your skin or whether you are part of a majority or minority ethnic group. You matter to God. He loves people of every social status. Women in those times were regarded as inferior and given lowly jobs to do, much as what happens in many parts of the world today. But Jesus treated women the same way he treated men. He brought dignity, compassion and hope to women and that's why so many women followed Him. And that's why wherever today there is a revival of real New Testament Christianity, women play a leading role. Jesus was blind to social distinctions whether between men or women, rich or poor, powerful or powerless. And Jesus loves people despite their sins (John 4:16-18). Jesus knew her past, but He did not hold it against her. The whole purpose of Jesus coming to earth was to bring salvation, not condemnation to people. There's a core problem in the world and it's called sin. In rugby if there's foul play, then you are sent to the sin bin. People know what's a sin and what's not, even though they don't want to face it or even want to redefine it. Sin is independence from God and rebellion towards God. The Bible says when we live in sin or turn from sin there are consequences: life or death. Sin leads to separation from God. But Jesus came to take the burdens of our sins, to forgive us and give us new beginnings. He knew this woman was a sinner, and He quickly showed her that He cared about her. He knew that she was a lost soul who was empty on the inside. And that's why Jesus came to earth, for people just like her. This story tells us very clearly that Jesus came to show God's love for all people, no matter what they had done. He wants to remove that barrier between them and God.     2. Jesus came to satisfy us. You don't have to be a Rolling Stones fan to know that the words of their world-famous song is the experience of so many people ‘I can't get no satisfaction.' So many rock stars and celebrities have seemingly got it all: money, adoration, fame, yet there is still a deep inner emptiness. And this woman at the well had lived a bit too, but there was something missing in her life. That something was someone, and He was standing right beside her. He told her how her thirst for life could be truly satisfied (John 4:10-15). Jesus promised her satisfying, eternal water. He didn't promise temporary nourishment, but a new lease of life would well up inside her. No more chasing after momentary pleasures to bring purpose, happiness or relief. In life we can look for satisfaction in many places, like shopping, the next holiday or pursuing our career. For others satisfaction may come through addictions and momentary highs. Well, Jesus repeated His claim and promise that He alone could satisfy the deepest longings of the human spirit (John 6:35; John 7:37-38; John 4:25-26). Jesus taught that the only way to truly know satisfaction is to know God and that He Himself was God.   3. Jesus came to save us. The conversation with this woman changed her life. She was no longer lost but found. She had been empty but now she felt full and fulfilled. She had gone to get some ordinary water but she had found living water that she could feel bubbling up within her. And it bubbled over so much that she couldn't keep the good news to herself (John 4:28-30). The Bible then says that Jesus stayed with the Samaritans for a few days and they knew that He was their saviour. Jesus came to seek and save all who were lost. He came to save us from our sins, to forgive us and give us new beginnings. He came to rescue us from all the evil power of the Kingdom of darkness and death and hell. He came not just to save some people but all people. People from all racial and ethnic groups. People from all levels of society. People who have messed up and who need to be cleaned up. The love of Jesus is for everyone. Today you need to know that God loves you unconditionally no matter who you are, where you come from or what you have done. Do you want to know that love? Do you want to know an end to restlessness in your heart and the emptiness in your soul? Do you long for living waters that will satisfy you for time and eternity? There is no job, person, or accomplishment that can fill that place inside of you. You need to come near to Jesus and let Him speak to your heart like this Samaritan woman. Read His Words. Study His life. See what He has done in so many lives. Commit your life to Him in simple prayer. And believe that as you trust Him and follow Him, you Saviour, He can change you too. 

Do you want to know an unconditional love? Do you want to know an end to restlessness in your heart and the emptiness in your soul? There is no job, person, or accomplishment that can fill that place inside of you. You need to come near to Jesus and let Him speak to your heart. No one is off limits to God. More than you may have realised God wants to help you and show you His amazing grace and favour.  One of the most well-known stories in the Bible that underlines this truth is found in the gospel of John 4:1-30 and 39-42. It still carries a significant message for us today. Jesus was a much-in-demand preacher and miracle worker in the first century in what we know today as Israel and the West Bank. Huge crowds followed Him. But some of His most powerful ministry was in one-to-one personal encounters and conversations.   Jesus was heading back to Galilee and took a shortcut through a place which Jews often avoided, called Samaria. This was a purposeful and fairly radical act for reasons that we'll see soon. But he did something even more surprising; he got into conversation with a lady with a pretty bad reputation.   But this conversation was to change the life of this woman and her community. It began with Jesus sitting by a well and asking her for a drink of the water that she was drawing from the well (John 4:4-10). We can learn some simple and powerful lessons from this story:   1. Jesus came to show us God's love is for all people (John 4:9; John 3:16; Acts 10:34; John 4:16-18) 2. Jesus came to satisfy us (John 4:10-15; John 6:35; John 7:37-38; John 4:25-26) 3. Jesus came to save us (John 4:28-30)  Apply    1. Jesus came to show us God's love is for all people. He loves people of every race (John 4:9). Historically Jews despised Samaritans. There were longstanding prejudices and often deep hatred between Jews and Samaritans. When the Assyrian empire captured Samaria, which had been the capital of the northern kingdom of Israel, they deported many Jews, and foreigners were brought into the land. So the Jews didn't want anything to do with a people they despised and who represented betrayal for their nation. They would do anything to avoid travelling through Samaria and having social contact. That's why this woman was so startled and questioned Him. She was really saying: Don't you know about the realities of ethnic, tribal and racial differences?' It didn't matter to Jesus, all he saw was the person. He loved people no matter what country or culture they came from (John 3:16; Acts 10:34). And today God is for you and loves you no matter what the colour of your skin or whether you are part of a majority or minority ethnic group. You matter to God. He loves people of every social status. Women in those times were regarded as inferior and given lowly jobs to do, much as what happens in many parts of the world today. But Jesus treated women the same way he treated men. He brought dignity, compassion and hope to women and that's why so many women followed Him. And that's why wherever today there is a revival of real New Testament Christianity, women play a leading role. Jesus was blind to social distinctions whether between men or women, rich or poor, powerful or powerless. And Jesus loves people despite their sins (John 4:16-18). Jesus knew her past, but He did not hold it against her. The whole purpose of Jesus coming to earth was to bring salvation, not condemnation to people. There's a core problem in the world and it's called sin. In rugby if there's foul play, then you are sent to the sin bin. People know what's a sin and what's not, even though they don't want to face it or even want to redefine it. Sin is independence from God and rebellion towards God. The Bible says when we live in sin or turn from sin there are consequences: life or death. Sin leads to separation from God. But Jesus came to take the burdens of our sins, to forgive us and give us new beginnings. He knew this woman was a sinner, and He quickly showed her that He cared about her. He knew that she was a lost soul who was empty on the inside. And that's why Jesus came to earth, for people just like her. This story tells us very clearly that Jesus came to show God's love for all people, no matter what they had done. He wants to remove that barrier between them and God.     2. Jesus came to satisfy us. You don't have to be a Rolling Stones fan to know that the words of their world-famous song is the experience of so many people ‘I can't get no satisfaction.' So many rock stars and celebrities have seemingly got it all: money, adoration, fame, yet there is still a deep inner emptiness. And this woman at the well had lived a bit too, but there was something missing in her life. That something was someone, and He was standing right beside her. He told her how her thirst for life could be truly satisfied (John 4:10-15). Jesus promised her satisfying, eternal water. He didn't promise temporary nourishment, but a new lease of life would well up inside her. No more chasing after momentary pleasures to bring purpose, happiness or relief. In life we can look for satisfaction in many places, like shopping, the next holiday or pursuing our career. For others satisfaction may come through addictions and momentary highs. Well, Jesus repeated His claim and promise that He alone could satisfy the deepest longings of the human spirit (John 6:35; John 7:37-38; John 4:25-26). Jesus taught that the only way to truly know satisfaction is to know God and that He Himself was God.   3. Jesus came to save us. The conversation with this woman changed her life. She was no longer lost but found. She had been empty but now she felt full and fulfilled. She had gone to get some ordinary water but she had found living water that she could feel bubbling up within her. And it bubbled over so much that she couldn't keep the good news to herself (John 4:28-30). The Bible then says that Jesus stayed with the Samaritans for a few days and they knew that He was their saviour. Jesus came to seek and save all who were lost. He came to save us from our sins, to forgive us and give us new beginnings. He came to rescue us from all the evil power of the Kingdom of darkness and death and hell. He came not just to save some people but all people. People from all racial and ethnic groups. People from all levels of society. People who have messed up and who need to be cleaned up. The love of Jesus is for everyone. Today you need to know that God loves you unconditionally no matter who you are, where you come from or what you have done. Do you want to know that love? Do you want to know an end to restlessness in your heart and the emptiness in your soul? Do you long for living waters that will satisfy you for time and eternity? There is no job, person, or accomplishment that can fill that place inside of you. You need to come near to Jesus and let Him speak to your heart like this Samaritan woman. Read His Words. Study His life. See what He has done in so many lives. Commit your life to Him in simple prayer. And believe that as you trust Him and follow Him, you Saviour, He can change you too. 

Britain has become a great spiritual battleground where the Christian identity of this nation is under attack on many fronts. This is no time for churches across this land to be divided and distracted by worldly cares and ambitions. This is a time to fight the good fight of faith and love, and in Sir Winston Churchill's words, to be determined that ‘we will never surrender' our spiritual freedoms and Christian heritage.     For all the challenges we face, we should never be discouraged. For as both the Bible and revival history shows us, it is in times of great darkness and desperation that God so often turns everything around.   We see how this can happen by looking at the story of man who lived all his life in darkness. He was a blind man, a desperate man, a man for whom it seemed impossible that anything could change. But in just one moment in time everything changed for him. The power of God was released on him and multitudes marvelled at what had happened so quickly.     This man was called Bartimaeus, and his story is in Luke 18:35-43. Matthew's gospel records that there were two blind men begging but Mark and Luke's gospels singled out the most vocal of the two. Mark tells us his name was Bartimaeus and that he not only knew the name of Jesus, but he also recognised Him as the Son of David, the Promised Messiah.    We see some simple lessons from this story of how the church can be revitalised as agents of great and sudden change in the UK. We must:   1. Focus on people in great need (Luke 18:35; Luke 4:18) 2. Cry out to God for mercy (Luke 18:36-39; Exodus 2:23-25; Judges 6:2-6; Psalms 18:6; 34:17) 3. Have big dreams (Luke 18:40-41) 4. Expect to experience miracles (Luke 18:42-43) 5. Let the new followers of Jesus influence many others (Luke 18:43; John 4:39)  Apply    1. Focus on people in great need (Luke 18:35). Bartimaeus was in a desperate condition as a blind man who had to beg to get any money. He couldn't see anything, and crowds of people just passed him by. He was, like so many in our world, left behind to look after himself, just trying to get a few coins to keep him going. But Jesus built His ministry on people like Bartimaeus: the blind, the deaf, the dumb, the grieving widow, the sick and suffering. This is why the anointing of the Holy Spirit had come on Him (Luke 4:18). We should focus on the hurting, the poor, the despised, the lonely, overlooked, and grieving. People everywhere are in pain, including the rich and famous and outwardly happy. And we need eyes to see who is struggling by the roadside of life and not just be part of the crowd that rushes on past. To turn this nation around, we will need Christians and churches that truly love people no matter who they are or from what background they come.    2. Cry out to God for mercy (Luke 18:36-39). When Bartimaeus heard Jesus was coming near, he recognised this was his moment that everything could change if he could somehow connect with Him. So amidst all the noise of the crowd he shouted out “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” This wasn't a polite, quiet prayer; it was an urgent call for help. His shouting was so loud that many people told him to shut up. But we read this caused him to “shout all the more. Son of David, have mercy on me!” This was a man who really knew how much he needed the mercy of God. He was desperate to seize the moment to connect with Jesus. So often God permits individuals, families, church and even nations to come to a place of desperation where we realise our only hope is to ask God to show us His mercy. That was the case in 1940 when literally millions of Britons answered the King's call to prayer that this nation would be saved from tyranny. With no other hope of help, they cried to God for mercy. This was what happened with the Israelites (Exodus 2:23-25; Judges 6:2-6). This was the tipping point when God raised up Gideon and his 300 dedicated men who overcame a vast army. King David knew how to effectively call for the mercy of God (Psalms 18:6, 34:17). Real prayer is when we are desperate enough to truly cry out to God for mercy knowing that we have no other options. Today in the UK we are being brought to a point where we need to cry out to God for our own answers, to cry out to God for our families, for greater purity, power and fruitfulness in our churches. And for sure we need His intervention in our nation. Without doubt we deserve judgement for so many reasons, in a nation and former empire that has been in such rebellion towards God and for breaking firm promises to the Jewish people and Israel. But we can still cry out to the great God of mercy for our generation and those to come that the fires of God in this nation will never go out.     3. Have big dreams (Luke 18:40-41). Bartimaeus knew exactly what he wanted; it was a big miracle to receive his sight but he was clear what he wanted. Everything would change when he could see. We too should ask God to give us clear vision to see what we have not seen before, to have the scales removed from our eyes so that we can visualise changes in our lives, in our self-perception, and in families and churches. When the Lord touches our eyes, we will perceive that we can and will minister to multitudes.  4. Expect to experience miracles (Luke 18:42-43). Healing is central to the gospel. Healing miracles are part and parcel of New Testament Christianity and commonly seen in Christian revivals. Healings are signs that the kingdom of God has come on earth and are connected to faith. Jesus told Bartimaeus ‘your faith has healed you.' Bartimaeus had lived all his life as a blind man. He could have been resigned to his fate but when he knew that Jesus was nearby, he had faith for healing. He called Jesus ‘the son of David' because he believed He was the promised Messiah and that when he connected with Him nothing was impossible. And that remains true today. For Jesus Christ is indeed the same yesterday, today and forever. He's still the healer and the Lord over every disease and sickness. He is still the miracle worker. We need to put our faith in Jesus. ‘Faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we don't see.' Today we need a new dimension of supernatural ministry to move forward in the face of so much satanic opposition and confusion. Let's believe that all things are possible with God, and to pray for and heal the sick.   5. Let the new followers of Jesus influence many others (Luke 18:43). When new believers share their testimonies, many people can come to Christ (John 4:39). Billy Graham's ministry took off not just because of his anointed evangelistic preaching but because of the conversions of a well-known gang boss and famous radio personality in his 1949 Los Angeles campaign. Whenever people come to Christ, be quick to let them spread the good news and you will be amazed at the great harvest of their families and friends. Let's go forward together with new faith and focus and see a great spiritual turnaround throughout our nation. Let's cry out to God for His mercy in our lives, in our families and churches and in this nation. 

Britain has become a great spiritual battleground where the Christian identity of this nation is under attack on many fronts. This is no time for churches across this land to be divided and distracted by worldly cares and ambitions. This is a time to fight the good fight of faith and love, and in Sir Winston Churchill's words, to be determined that ‘we will never surrender' our spiritual freedoms and Christian heritage.     For all the challenges we face, we should never be discouraged. For as both the Bible and revival history shows us, it is in times of great darkness and desperation that God so often turns everything around.   We see how this can happen by looking at the story of man who lived all his life in darkness. He was a blind man, a desperate man, a man for whom it seemed impossible that anything could change. But in just one moment in time everything changed for him. The power of God was released on him and multitudes marvelled at what had happened so quickly.     This man was called Bartimaeus, and his story is in Luke 18:35-43. Matthew's gospel records that there were two blind men begging but Mark and Luke's gospels singled out the most vocal of the two. Mark tells us his name was Bartimaeus and that he not only knew the name of Jesus, but he also recognised Him as the Son of David, the Promised Messiah.    We see some simple lessons from this story of how the church can be revitalised as agents of great and sudden change in the UK. We must:   1. Focus on people in great need (Luke 18:35; Luke 4:18) 2. Cry out to God for mercy (Luke 18:36-39; Exodus 2:23-25; Judges 6:2-6; Psalms 18:6; 34:17) 3. Have big dreams (Luke 18:40-41) 4. Expect to experience miracles (Luke 18:42-43) 5. Let the new followers of Jesus influence many others (Luke 18:43; John 4:39)  Apply    1. Focus on people in great need (Luke 18:35). Bartimaeus was in a desperate condition as a blind man who had to beg to get any money. He couldn't see anything, and crowds of people just passed him by. He was, like so many in our world, left behind to look after himself, just trying to get a few coins to keep him going. But Jesus built His ministry on people like Bartimaeus: the blind, the deaf, the dumb, the grieving widow, the sick and suffering. This is why the anointing of the Holy Spirit had come on Him (Luke 4:18). We should focus on the hurting, the poor, the despised, the lonely, overlooked, and grieving. People everywhere are in pain, including the rich and famous and outwardly happy. And we need eyes to see who is struggling by the roadside of life and not just be part of the crowd that rushes on past. To turn this nation around, we will need Christians and churches that truly love people no matter who they are or from what background they come.    2. Cry out to God for mercy (Luke 18:36-39). When Bartimaeus heard Jesus was coming near, he recognised this was his moment that everything could change if he could somehow connect with Him. So amidst all the noise of the crowd he shouted out “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” This wasn't a polite, quiet prayer; it was an urgent call for help. His shouting was so loud that many people told him to shut up. But we read this caused him to “shout all the more. Son of David, have mercy on me!” This was a man who really knew how much he needed the mercy of God. He was desperate to seize the moment to connect with Jesus. So often God permits individuals, families, church and even nations to come to a place of desperation where we realise our only hope is to ask God to show us His mercy. That was the case in 1940 when literally millions of Britons answered the King's call to prayer that this nation would be saved from tyranny. With no other hope of help, they cried to God for mercy. This was what happened with the Israelites (Exodus 2:23-25; Judges 6:2-6). This was the tipping point when God raised up Gideon and his 300 dedicated men who overcame a vast army. King David knew how to effectively call for the mercy of God (Psalms 18:6, 34:17). Real prayer is when we are desperate enough to truly cry out to God for mercy knowing that we have no other options. Today in the UK we are being brought to a point where we need to cry out to God for our own answers, to cry out to God for our families, for greater purity, power and fruitfulness in our churches. And for sure we need His intervention in our nation. Without doubt we deserve judgement for so many reasons, in a nation and former empire that has been in such rebellion towards God and for breaking firm promises to the Jewish people and Israel. But we can still cry out to the great God of mercy for our generation and those to come that the fires of God in this nation will never go out.     3. Have big dreams (Luke 18:40-41). Bartimaeus knew exactly what he wanted; it was a big miracle to receive his sight but he was clear what he wanted. Everything would change when he could see. We too should ask God to give us clear vision to see what we have not seen before, to have the scales removed from our eyes so that we can visualise changes in our lives, in our self-perception, and in families and churches. When the Lord touches our eyes, we will perceive that we can and will minister to multitudes.  4. Expect to experience miracles (Luke 18:42-43). Healing is central to the gospel. Healing miracles are part and parcel of New Testament Christianity and commonly seen in Christian revivals. Healings are signs that the kingdom of God has come on earth and are connected to faith. Jesus told Bartimaeus ‘your faith has healed you.' Bartimaeus had lived all his life as a blind man. He could have been resigned to his fate but when he knew that Jesus was nearby, he had faith for healing. He called Jesus ‘the son of David' because he believed He was the promised Messiah and that when he connected with Him nothing was impossible. And that remains true today. For Jesus Christ is indeed the same yesterday, today and forever. He's still the healer and the Lord over every disease and sickness. He is still the miracle worker. We need to put our faith in Jesus. ‘Faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we don't see.' Today we need a new dimension of supernatural ministry to move forward in the face of so much satanic opposition and confusion. Let's believe that all things are possible with God, and to pray for and heal the sick.   5. Let the new followers of Jesus influence many others (Luke 18:43). When new believers share their testimonies, many people can come to Christ (John 4:39). Billy Graham's ministry took off not just because of his anointed evangelistic preaching but because of the conversions of a well-known gang boss and famous radio personality in his 1949 Los Angeles campaign. Whenever people come to Christ, be quick to let them spread the good news and you will be amazed at the great harvest of their families and friends. Let's go forward together with new faith and focus and see a great spiritual turnaround throughout our nation. Let's cry out to God for His mercy in our lives, in our families and churches and in this nation. 

The early church had the luxury of not having an ugly legacy to undo. People were able to hear what they had to say without suspicion based on what other Christians had done in the past. But we don't have that luxury. We stand at the end of 2,000 years of a history in which Christians did some wonderful things, but those years have also been filled with wildly un-Christlike behavior done by people who called themselves Christians. So-called Christians have burned people at the stake, drowned people for wanting to be baptized by immersion, sent armies on crusades to liberate the “holy land,” killing women & children and even Christians who didn't look like them. So-called Christians put millions of defenseless people in slavery and sold their children to strangers. They celebrated Easter by driving Jews out of their villages and cities. They annihilated six million of them in the holocaust. They deliberately forced a nation of people to become addicted to heroin so they could sell them drugs. They broke promise after promise to native people, and slaughtered them and seized land that they had sworn was theirs forever… etc. etc. I mention some of these horrible things not to stir up collective guilt, but to put our task in perspective. No, most of those weren't real Christians, but they were the fruit of Christian cultures. They often went to church… a lot, and “yes” those churches failed miserably to disciple them. But the problem is, the world doesn't know the difference between a so-called Christian and a real one, and to be honest, neither do we at times. How often have we been shocked to discover someone was just playing a game? So, here we are today, trying to proclaim New Testament Christianity to a world that has watched “Christians” closely for 2,000 years. And if all we have to offer them is more of the same, they will continue to look for help elsewhere. They must see people who shatter the stereotype, who live differently, who act differently, who treat them differently… for a long enough period of time to prove it's not just one more marketing attempt. We, as a church, but also we as individuals, have to live in such a way that people will be able to discern the difference between nominal and genuine Christianity. Words will mean very little in this process. People don't believe our words anymore. It's time to let our light shine before men in such a way that they may see our good works and glorify our Father who is in heaven (Mt 5:16).

In this episode, Bryan and Bo discuss the concept of priesthood in Mormonism. They explore the Mormon belief in the restoration of the church and the priesthood through Joseph Smith. They discuss the biblical perspective on priesthood, emphasizing Jesus as the ultimate high priest and mediator. They explore the idea of a royal priesthood, and the role of leadership and authority in the church. They highlight the toxicity of priesthood authority in Mormonism and contrast it with the biblical concept of authority. The conversation also dives into the two orders of the priesthood, the Aaronic and Melchizedek priesthoods, and the significance of Jesus as the ultimate high priest. Takeaways:The Mormon belief in the restoration of the priesthood through Joseph Smith is a central aspect of their faith.The biblical perspective on priesthood emphasizes Jesus as the ultimate high priest and mediator between God and humanity.New Testament Christianity did not have priests or temples, as Jesus fulfilled the sacrificial system and became the final mediator.Leadership and authority exist in the church, but Mormonism takes the concept of authority to a toxic level, elevating it to a priesthood authority that only certain individuals possess.The Aaronic priesthood originated with Aaron, the brother of Moses, and the Levites. The Melchizedek priesthood is a more obscure reference in Genesis, but the book of Hebrews explains that Jesus is the ultimate high priest in the order of Melchizedek.The worthiness aspect of priesthood in Mormonism can lead to guilt, shame, and public humiliation for those who are deemed unworthy. However, the Bible teaches that salvation is not based on good works or priesthood authority, but on God's grace through faith in Jesus Christ.--The Unveiling Mormonism podcast pulls back the curtain on Mormon history, culture and doctrine. Join us for new episodes every Monday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/mormonism.Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org.Donate Now --Mentioned in this episode:Donate Now

In this episode, Bryan and Bo discuss the concept of priesthood in Mormonism. They explore the Mormon belief in the restoration of the church and the priesthood through Joseph Smith. They discuss the biblical perspective on priesthood, emphasizing Jesus as the ultimate high priest and mediator. They explore the idea of a royal priesthood, and the role of leadership and authority in the church. They highlight the toxicity of priesthood authority in Mormonism and contrast it with the biblical concept of authority. The conversation also dives into the two orders of the priesthood, the Aaronic and Melchizedek priesthoods, and the significance of Jesus as the ultimate high priest. Takeaways:The Mormon belief in the restoration of the priesthood through Joseph Smith is a central aspect of their faith.The biblical perspective on priesthood emphasizes Jesus as the ultimate high priest and mediator between God and humanity.New Testament Christianity did not have priests or temples, as Jesus fulfilled the sacrificial system and became the final mediator.Leadership and authority exist in the church, but Mormonism takes the concept of authority to a toxic level, elevating it to a priesthood authority that only certain individuals possess.The Aaronic priesthood originated with Aaron, the brother of Moses, and the Levites. The Melchizedek priesthood is a more obscure reference in Genesis, but the book of Hebrews explains that Jesus is the ultimate high priest in the order of Melchizedek.The worthiness aspect of priesthood in Mormonism can lead to guilt, shame, and public humiliation for those who are deemed unworthy. However, the Bible teaches that salvation is not based on good works or priesthood authority, but on God's grace through faith in Jesus Christ.--The Unveiling Mormonism podcast pulls back the curtain on Mormon history, culture and doctrine. Join us for new episodes every Monday. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/mormonism.Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org.Donate Now --Mentioned in this episode:Donate Now

The early church had it right. New Testament Christianity is bold!

Jim Laws

Acts 2:42-47 presents a flourishing vision for biblical community. One of the primary characteristics of New Testament Christianity is God-focused, Christ-given, Spirit-enabled fellowship with other believers. Our faith comes with a family. Today we will look at this early snapshot of the church again and learn what it looks like to be “Devoted to the Fellowship.” There are three realities to this fellowship I want us to understand: 1. Commitment of the Church, 2. The Community of the Church, and 3. Commission of Church.

Turkeys and Eagles, Part 2: Created to Be Like God MESSAGE SUMMARY:    Introduction – In Part 1 of this series, “Called as an ‘Eagle' But Saved as a ‘Turkey'” we learned, from the story about “Bubba the Eagle” and from relating this story to Ephesians 4, that many of us Christians have been “Turkeyized”. We learned that, rather than practicing New Testament Christianity, we have been practicing, in too many places, “Churchianity”. Now, we are looking at Paul's letter to the Ephesians to help break us out of this “Churchianity”. Rather than soaring with the eagles, too many of us are gobbling with the turkeys. Message – In this teaching today, we will look at “Created to Be Like God”. We live in a world that has many people with no desire to soar, and they will never reach the heights that God intended for us. Too many Christians are grounded because we have not been taught how to soar like an eagle. Now, “turkey thinking” posits that “living as a Christian is no different than living like everyone else”. However, “eagle thinking” posits that “as a Christian, I think different from everyone else” In Ephesians 4:17-18, “Now this I say and testify in the Lord, that you must no longer walk as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their minds. They are darkened in their understanding, alienated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them, due to their hardness of heart.”. Analogous for us today, we can substitute “nonbeliever” for “Gentile” in this passage. The key to how we live is how we think. This behavior is, also, illustrated in Romans 1:21 where Paul describes where he cannot tell if a group is really Christian because their thinking is so messed up. “Turkey thinking” says “I am a sinner always in need”, but “eagle thinking” says “I am created to be like God”. When becoming a follower of Jesus, we become a new creation, and the Spirit of God indwells us; therefore, God is in our lives as we live our lives. In this context, “turkey thinking” would say “I'm just a sinner and I'm stuck”; but “eagle thinking” says “I'm created in the image of God”. We should be different from those nonbelievers living in today's culture because we have Jesus living in us. However, many of us have been “Turkeyized”; but with Jesus in our lives, we can soar with the Eagles!   TODAY'S PRAYER: Lord, Sabbath rest is truly an unbelievable gift! Thank you that there is nothing I can do to earn your love; it comes without any strings attached. As I close my eyes for these few minutes before you, all I can say is, thank you! In Jesus' name, amen.    Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 133). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM A CHILD OF GOD. Yet to all who received Him, to those who believed in His Name, He gave the right to become children of God-- children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband's will, but born of God. John 1:12f SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV):  Ephesians 4:17-32; Romans 1:21-23; Genesis 2:5; Colossians 1:15-20; 2 Corinthians 5:17-21; Psalms 67:1-7. SCRIPTURE REFERENCE SEARCH: www.AWFTL.org/bible-search/ A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S DAILY DEVOTIONAL – “Letting God Be Lord Over Your Finances, which Are His but He Entrusted to You, Will Liberate Your Life!”: https://awordfromthelord.org/devotional/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

"Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.”This ancient hymn captures three eras of worship: as it was in the beginning—the worship of Old Testament Israel, as it is now—the worship of New Testament Christianity, and worship in the world without end—the worship of heaven. In one sense separating worship into these three eras emphasizes their discontinuity; yet, while there are certainly discontinuities between the worship of Israel and the New Testament church, for example, there are also important continuities, and where we find an emphasis on the continuity is in that little phrase, “and ever shall be.”Yet Christians have long wrestled with the continuities and discontinuities of worship, and confusion in this area has often led to problems with theology and practice of worship. The solution is found in a proper understanding of the foundations of biblical worship.Understanding properly how worship as it was in the beginning and worship as it is now relate to worship in the world without end helps us to recognize what shall ever be, the center of true worship and, consequently, the purpose of what we do as we gather for worship now.Scripture presents us with two extended descriptions of the worship of the world without end that provide the foundation for our discussion, notably one set in the context of worship in the Old Testament and the other set in the context of worship in the New Testament. In both cases, these descriptions of heavenly worship were presented during a time of problems with earthly worship, revealing the fact that problems with our worship now are corrected when we bring our worship into proper relationship with the worship of the world without end.

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Many people who say they are Christians are believing things and practicing things which are not found in the New Testament. What does the New Testament teach us about Christian beliefs and practices? Do we need to go to any outside sources for instruction about the church or being a disciple? Here is a brief overview of what is written in scripture, and where we should go to get our answers.

The greatest departure from New Testament Christianity has come about possibly because of our failure to understand the nature and necessity of sacrifice. Christianity was founded upon sacrifice and has progressed over the last 2,000 years and will continue to do so because of it. But whenever the sacrificial nature of our faith is compromised, there'll be a falling away that comes upon the Church and her progress comes to a grinding halt.

The greatest departure from New Testament Christianity has come about possibly because of our failure to understand the nature and necessity of sacrifice. Christianity was founded upon sacrifice and has progressed over the last 2,000 years and will continue to do so because of it. But whenever the sacrificial nature of our faith is compromised, there'll be a falling away that comes upon the Church and her progress comes to a grinding halt.

If revival is the renewal of healthy New Testament Christianity, then one question remains. How do you experience revival? How can you return to a place of vibrancy in your relationship with the Lord Jesus? In this episode, we outline three biblical mandates that, if believed and experienced, will lead you back to spiritual well-being. Please listen, and then share with family and friends.

In this concluding message of 'Revival Now' we see the need for 'A New Revival And Reform Movement', as David considers the difference between revival and reformation. From Matthew 9, he shares how revival is like the new wine God pours out from heaven, but the wineskins need to be fit for purpose to preserve and distribute the wine, otherwise the wine is spilled and wasted and the wineskins are ruined. God is wanting to reform the church again so that she is fit for purpose for the 'new thing' He wants to do among us. God is calling the church back to original New Testament Christianity, so therefore we must remove all obstacles in the way of this move of God. Perhaps that's part of what this current shaking in the church is all about? This message is available at https://www.preachtheword.com now in MP3 audio format...

Christian fellowship is such a sweet thing. However, it can also be a source of conflict. In this podcast, we will discuss the paradox of the biblical mandate to fellowship one another. What exactly does that mean? Does this include fellowship with denominations? Should we have fellowship with those who are not practicing New Testament Christianity? How should we react when another congregation does something unscriptural? We greatly appreciate you turning into this podcast. If we can pray for you in anyway please email us at rayreynoldsrap@gmail.com. If you are interested in a deeper, richer study of the Bible please download the FREE study guides available for a limited time. We also encourage you to sign up for a FREE Bible course for a comprehensive study of the entire Bible. The ministry of Reynolds Rap is meant to bring a message of inspiration and encouragement. Our hope it will bless you to find your calling and inspire you to engage in your own distinctive and personal ministry.  Our goal is to help mentor, coach, and motivate you.  We will do this through sharing Scriptures, Bible studies, blogs, podcasts, and LIVE videos.  Our website has many tools to help you in your walk with God to maintain an authentic Christian life (www.rayreynoldsrap.com). This podcast is partially sponsored by Getting To Know Your Bible (www.gettingtoknowyourbible.com), the Summerdale Church of Christ (www.summerdalechurch.org), and the Reclaiming Hope Ministry (www.rayreynoldsrap.com/reclaiming-hope). You are loved. Dr. Ray Reynolds #ReynoldsRap #WixBlog #authentic #Christian #positive #practical #community #God #Jesus #Facebook #Twitter #Instagram #YouTube #Reddit #TikTok #WWJD #GTKYB #Christianity #faithful #ReclaimingHope #RayReynolds #MistyReynolds #counseling The blog mentioned in this podcast can be found at the link below: https://www.rayreynoldsrap.com/post/criticism-is-a-cry-for-help --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/reynoldsrap/support

Revival is a return to normal New Testament Christianity. It is to walk in the Spirit consistently. In this episode, Michael Durham considers the indicators that evidence that a believer or a church needs revival. God wants His children to walk in the experience of their inheritance in Christ. But all of us know that we do not always do so. So, listen and discover what the signs of spiritual regression are. We need to know these indicators before our symptoms become a full-blown disease. 

Turkeys and Eagles, Part 2: Created to Be Like God MESSAGE SUMMARY:    Introduction – In Part 1 of this series, “Called as an ‘Eagle' But Saved as a ‘Turkey'” we learned, from the story about “Bubba the Eagle” and from relating this story to Ephesians 4, that many of us Christians have been “Turkeyized”. We learned that, rather than practicing New Testament Christianity, we have been practicing, in too many places, “Churchianity”. Now, we are looking at Paul's letter to the Ephesians to help break us out of this “Churchianity”. Rather than soaring with the eagles, too many of us are gobbling with the turkeys. Message – In this teaching today, we will look at “Created to Be Like God”. We live in a world that has many people with no desire to soar, and they will never reach the heights that God intended for us. Too many Christians are grounded because we have not been taught how to soar like an eagle. Now, “turkey thinking” posits that “living as a Christian is no different than living like everyone else”. However, “eagle thinking” posits that “as a Christian, I think different from everyone else” In Ephesians 4:17-18, “Now this I say and testify in the Lord, that you must no longer walk as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their minds. They are darkened in their understanding, alienated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them, due to their hardness of heart.”. Analogous for us today, we can substitute “nonbeliever” for “Gentile” in this passage. The key to how we live is how we think. This behavior is, also, illustrated in Romans 1:21 where Paul describes where he cannot tell if a group is really Christian because their thinking is so messed up. “Turkey thinking” says “I am a sinner always in need”, but “eagle thinking” says “I am created to be like God”. When becoming a follower of Jesus, we become a new creation, and the Spirit of God indwells us; therefore, God is in our lives as we live our lives. In this context, “turkey thinking” would say “I'm just a sinner and I'm stuck”; but “eagle thinking” says “I'm created in the image of God”. We should be different from those nonbelievers living in today's culture because we have Jesus living in us. However, many of us have been “Turkeyized”; but with Jesus in our lives, we can soar with the Eagles!   TODAY'S PRAYER: Lord, Sabbath rest is truly an unbelievable gift! Thank you that there is nothing I can do to earn your love; it comes without any strings attached. As I close my eyes for these few minutes before you, all I can say is, thank you! In Jesus' name, amen.    Scazzero, Peter. Emotionally Healthy Spirituality Day by Day (p. 133). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. TODAY'S AFFIRMATION: I affirm that because of what God has done for me in His Son, Jesus, I AM A CHILD OF GOD. Yet to all who received Him, to those who believed in His Name, He gave the right to become children of God-- children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband's will, but born of God. John 1:12f SCRIPTURE REFERENCE (ESV):  Ephesians 4:17-32; Romans 1:21-23; Genesis 2:5; Colossians 1:15-20; 2 Corinthians 5:17-21; Psalms 67:1-7. SCRIPTURE REFERENCE SEARCH: www.AWFTL.org/bible-search/ A WORD FROM THE LORD WEBSITE: www.AWFTL.org. WEBSITE LINK TO DR. BEACH'S DAILY DEVOTIONAL – “Do You Struggle with Your “Prayer Life”? Find a Quiet Place for Your Personal Relationship with God and Pray to the Universe's Creator”: https://awordfromthelord.org/devotional/ DONATE TO AWFTL: https://mygiving.secure.force.com/GXDonateNow?id=a0Ui000000DglsqEAB

We try to find a more biblical view of revival in this episode. One of the prevailing reasons revival is not occurring is the unbiblical attitudes about revival. Some have an idea that revival is a great evangelistic campaign, and others believe in humanistic formulas to be the key to having a revival. And others consider revival a purely sovereign work of God alone. These perspectives are hindering genuine revival, which is Christians returning to healthy New Testament Christianity. 

9/18/22 -  When Israel crossed the Jordan River it was a prophetic foretelling of the coming empowerment of New Testament Christianity. This week we look into the symbolic origins of the Jordan River and the supernatural yet often practical reality of manifesting Heaven on the earth. We hope you dig it…

Very often in some streams of Christianity there is an emphasis upon the Word of God, as opposed to the Spirit of God, or vice versa. At times these strands are even in contention with each other. This is not the way New Testament Christianity is meant to be. It should not be a case of 'either or' but 'both and' as regards the Word and the Holy Spirit. In Part 5 of our 'Revival Now' series, David explores this disparity and how we desperately need a new movement of the Word and the Spirit: The Word with the Spirit - not the Word without the Spirit; and the Spirit with the Word - not the Spirit without the Word. There is great power when the Word and the Spirit are together. Join us for this challenging exhortation, which is available at https://www.preachtheword.com now in MP3 audio format...

Did you know that most of your New Testament scripture can be traced back to a church in a city called Antioch? Many people are only vaguely familiar with this prophetic community, which could arguably compare to Jerusalem in terms of its implications for New Testament Christianity and lasting impact on the global Church. Before there were churches covering Asia Minor, before there were epistles that would be read by countless people throughout history as inspired scripture, there was a spiritual family made up of people from many different backgrounds, ethnicities, and vocations living out a value system together. This place became the "sending center” of the New Testament. God is raising up "Antioch Sending Centers" across the earth in this generation for the finishing of the task of Great Commission. They will be Presence-Centered families, nurturing and sending laborers to neighborhoods and nations. The blueprints for these communities can be found in chapters 11 and 13 of the book of Acts concerning the church in Antioch.  

A 15-minute podcast of Bible teaching, Monday - Friday, by the President and Editor of the Sword of the Lord Publishers, Dr. Shelton Smith.

A 15-minute podcast of Bible teaching, Monday - Friday, by the President and Editor of the Sword of the Lord Publishers, Dr. Shelton Smith.

A 15-minute podcast of Bible teaching, Monday - Friday, by the President and Editor of the Sword of the Lord Publishers, Dr. Shelton Smith.

A 15-minute podcast of Bible teaching, Monday - Friday, by the President and Editor of the Sword of the Lord Publishers, Dr. Shelton Smith.

A 15-minute podcast of Bible teaching, Monday - Friday, by the President and Editor of the Sword of the Lord Publishers, Dr. Shelton Smith.

Did you know that most of your New Testament scripture can be traced back to a church in a city called Antioch? Many people are only vaguely familiar with this prophetic community, which could arguably compare to Jerusalem in terms of its implications for New Testament Christianity and lasting impact on the global Church. Before there were churches covering Asia Minor, before there were epistles that would be read by countless people throughout history as inspired scripture, there was a spiritual family made up of people from many different backgrounds, ethnicities, and vocations living out a value system together. This place became the "sending center” of the New Testament. God is raising up "Antioch Sending Centers" across the earth in this generation for the finishing of the task of Great Commission. They will be Presence-Centered families, nurturing and sending laborers to neighborhoods and nations. The blueprints for these communities can be found in chapters 11 and 13 of the book of Acts concerning the church in Antioch.

Did you know that most of your New Testament scripture can be traced back to a church in a city called Antioch? Many people are only vaguely familiar with this prophetic community, which could arguably compare to Jerusalem in terms of its implications for New Testament Christianity and lasting impact on the global Church. Before there were churches covering Asia Minor, before there were epistles that would be read by countless people throughout history as inspired scripture, there was a spiritual family made up of people from many different backgrounds, ethnicities, and vocations living out a value system together. This place became the "sending center” of the New Testament. God is raising up "Antioch Sending Centers" across the earth in this generation for the finishing of the task of Great Commission. They will be Presence-Centered families, nurturing and sending laborers to neighborhoods and nations. The blueprints for these communities can be found in chapters 11 and 13 of the book of Acts concerning the church in Antioch.

Did you know that most of your New Testament scripture can be traced back to a church in a city called Antioch? Many people are only vaguely familiar with this prophetic community, which could arguably compare to Jerusalem in terms of its implications for New Testament Christianity and lasting impact on the global Church. Before there were churches covering Asia Minor, before there were epistles that would be read by countless people throughout history as inspired scripture, there was a spiritual family made up of people from many different backgrounds, ethnicities, and vocations living out a value system together. This place became the "sending center” of the New Testament. God is raising up "Antioch Sending Centers" across the earth in this generation for the finishing of the task of Great Commission. They will be Presence-Centered families, nurturing and sending laborers to neighborhoods and nations. The blueprints for these communities can be found in chapters 11 and 13 of the book of Acts concerning the church in Antioch.

Did you know that most of your New Testament scripture can be traced back to a church in a city called Antioch? Many people are only vaguely familiar with this prophetic community, which could arguably compare to Jerusalem in terms of its implications for New Testament Christianity and lasting impact on the global Church. Before there were churches covering Asia Minor, before there were epistles that would be read by countless people throughout history as inspired scripture, there was a spiritual family made up of people from many different backgrounds, ethnicities, and vocations living out a value system together. This place became the "sending center” of the New Testament. God is raising up "Antioch Sending Centers" across the earth in this generation for the finishing of the task of Great Commission. They will be Presence-Centered families, nurturing and sending laborers to neighborhoods and nations. The blueprints for these communities can be found in chapters 11 and 13 of the book of Acts concerning the church in Antioch.

Did you know that most of your New Testament scripture can be traced back to a church in a city called Antioch? Many people are only vaguely familiar with this prophetic community, which could arguably compare to Jerusalem in terms of its implications for New Testament Christianity and lasting impact on the global Church. Before there were churches covering Asia Minor, before there were epistles that would be read by countless people throughout history as inspired scripture, there was a spiritual family made up of people from many different backgrounds, ethnicities, and vocations living out a value system together. This place became the "sending center” of the New Testament. God is raising up "Antioch Sending Centers" across the earth in this generation for the finishing of the task of Great Commission. They will be Presence-Centered families, nurturing and sending laborers to neighborhoods and nations. The blueprints for these communities can be found in chapters 11 and 13 of the book of Acts concerning the church in Antioch.

Did you know that most of your New Testament scripture can be traced back to a church in a city called Antioch? Many people are only vaguely familiar with this prophetic community, which could arguably compare to Jerusalem in terms of its implications for New Testament Christianity and lasting impact on the global Church. Before there were churches covering Asia Minor, before there were epistles that would be read by countless people throughout history as inspired scripture, there was a spiritual family made up of people from many different backgrounds, ethnicities, and vocations living out a value system together. This place became the "sending center” of the New Testament. God is raising up "Antioch Sending Centers" across the earth in this generation for the finishing of the task of Great Commission. They will be Presence-Centered families, nurturing and sending laborers to neighborhoods and nations. The blueprints for these communities can be found in chapters 11 and 13 of the book of Acts concerning the church in Antioch.   

If revival is the renewal of healthy New Testament Christianity, then one question remains. How do you experience revival? How can you return to a place of vibrancy in your relationship with the Lord Jesus? In this episode, we outline three biblical mandates that, if believed and experienced, will lead you back to spiritual well-being. Please listen, and then share with family and friends.

Revival is a return to normal New Testament Christianity. It is to walk in the Spirit consistently. In this episode, Michael Durham considers the indicators that evidence that a believer or a church needs revival. God wants His children to walk in the experience of their inheritance in Christ. But all of us know that we do not always do so. So, listen and discover what the signs of spiritual regression are. We need to know these indicators before our symptoms become a full-blown disease. 

We try to find a more biblical view of revival in this episode. One of the prevailing reasons revival is not occurring is the unbiblical attitudes about revival. Some have an idea that revival is a great evangelistic campaign, and others believe in humanistic formulas to be the key to having a revival. And others consider revival a purely sovereign work of God alone. These perspectives are hindering genuine revival, which is Christians returning to healthy New Testament Christianity. 

Chris talks with long time friend Adam Narciso about the topic of identity. Adam is a unique prophetic evangelist who equips everyday Jesus-followers to live authentic, New Testament Christianity, discovering their highest joy in the Great Commandment and their unique assignment in the Great Commission. Adam is author of New Identity: 30 Days of Prayer for Spiritual Transformation and producer of multiple e-courses and the Jesus Movement Now Podcast. He and his wife, Jenny, have four children and reside in Franklin, TN.