Podcasts about only christ

Only Christ can satisfy our souls and create true worshippers of God.

Only Christ can offer us the “better things” for which we long.

What the Bible Teaches About Sexual Purity in a Confused Culture Show: Anchored in the Word with Dave Jenkins Author: Dave Jenkins Date: March 5, 2026 Show Summary Question: What does the Bible teach about sexual purity in a confused culture? In this episode of Anchored in the Word, Dave Jenkins answers an urgent question for our time: what does Scripture teach about sexual purity when the culture is constantly redefining sexuality and calling purity outdated or unloving? God's Word does not shift with the times. God's design is good, intentional, and for our flourishing. Sexual sin is not merely a cultural issue—it is a heart issue. It affects our conscience, our relationships, our work, and our walk with Christ. But God's Word gives clarity, hope, and direction, and Christ offers real forgiveness and lasting renewal. Listen Watch --> Key Scriptures Genesis 1:27 Genesis 2:24 Ephesians 5:25–32 Matthew 5:27–28 Romans 12:2 Galatians 5:16 1 John 1:9 Hebrews 10:24–25 Psalm 51:10 Episode Highlights God created humanity male and female—sexual identity is received from God, not invented (Genesis 1:27). God designed sexuality for covenant marriage—exclusive, permanent, and worshipful (Genesis 2:24). Purity is not only behavior—it begins in the heart (Matthew 5:27–28). Temptation lies and sin overpromises—but only Christ satisfies. Four biblical strategies to pursue purity through Word, Spirit, repentance, and community. Full Article God's Word Does Not Shift with Culture We live in a world where the meaning of sexuality is constantly shifting, where purity is labeled outdated, and where boundaries are rejected. But God's Word does not shift with our culture. God's design is good. It is intentional, and it is for our flourishing. Sexual Sin Is a Heart Issue Sexual sin is not merely a cultural issue—it is a heart issue. It affects our conscience, our relationships, our work, and our walk with Christ. And many today struggle in silence—trapped, ashamed, numb, or confused. But the Word of God gives clarity, hope, and direction. God's Design for Sexuality and Identity Genesis 1:27 teaches that God created man in His own image—male and female He created them. Sexual identity is not invented; it is received from God as part of His created order. Genesis 2:24 adds that a man shall leave his father and mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh. God designed sexuality to be covenant-based, exclusive, permanent, life-giving, and worshipful—because marriage reflects Christ and His church (Ephesians 5:25–32). Marriage is not merely relational; it is deeply theological. Purity Begins in the Heart Sexual purity is not only avoiding sinful behavior—it is devotion to Christ in body and heart. Jesus teaches in Matthew 5:27–28 that lust is adultery of the heart. Purity begins inwardly and works outward into obedience, shaping thoughts, desires, intentions, and behaviors. Scripture uses the category of sexual immorality to describe any sexual expression outside the covenant of marriage. This includes pornography, lust, fornication, adultery, sexual fantasy, and anything that distorts God's design. Purity is not simply avoiding sin—it is walking in holiness. Why We Need Biblical Clarity in the Battle The world normalizes impurity, our sinful nature is drawn to it, and the enemy tempts us with false promises. Temptation lies, and sin overpromises but never satisfies. Only Christ gives true peace, joy, and fulfillment. We do not fight in our own strength—we fight with the truth of God's Word. Four Biblical Strategies for Pursuing Purity Renew your mind with the Word of God (Romans 12:2). Purity begins with a renewed way of thinking—thinking God's thoughts after Him. Walk by the Spirit (Galatians 5:16). Purity is not achieved through willpower, but through dependence on the Spirit of God. Confess and repent quickly (1 John 1:9). Confession is not defeat—it is the path to restoration and cleansing. Pursue accountability and community (Hebrews 10:24–25). Isolation fuels temptation, but life in the local church strengthens obedience. Hope for the Guilty and Ashamed Maybe you feel guilty, convicted, discouraged, or ashamed. Hear this clearly: God does not shame His children. He restores them. Psalm 51:10 says, “Create in me a clean heart, O God.” God specializes in redemption—He washes, renews, restores, strengthens, and changes desires. Christ Is Better Sexual purity is not just saying no to sin—it is saying yes to Christ, because Christ is better. Christ satisfies, Christ renews, and Christ heals. Takeaways & Reflection Questions Where have you allowed cultural assumptions to shape your thinking more than Scripture? In what ways do you see temptation promising comfort or satisfaction that only Christ can give? What practical step can you take today to renew your mind with God's Word (Romans 12:2)? Who in your local church can you invite into honest accountability and prayer? If you're carrying shame, how does Psalm 51:10 reframe your hope in God's restoring grace? Call to Action If this episode encouraged you, please share it with a friend and subscribe to the Servants of Grace podcast wherever you get your podcasts and on YouTube. For more from Anchored in the Word with Dave please visit our page at Servants of Grace or at our YouTube. Stay rooted in Scripture and anchored in Christ.

In Gospel of John 6:53–56, Jesus says something so shocking that many people walked away:“Unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink His blood, you have no life in you.”The crowd wanted bread on their tables.Jesus offered His body on a cross.In this powerful message, we unpack what Jesus really meant — not something physical, but something deeply spiritual. To “eat” and “drink” is to personally receive, by faith, what Christ accomplished on the cross. It's about more than admiration. More than good works. More than religion.It's about life.

“Put not your trust in princes, in a son of man, in whom there is no salvation.” — Psalm 146:3In this episode, we reflect on a realization that came during adoration: we often put people on pedestals and expect Christ-like perfection from them. Friends, leaders, parents, even spouses—we look to them for what only Christ can give. When they fall short, we're hurt, confused, or bitter. But the truth is simple and freeing: we're called to love people, not worship them. Only Christ deserves the pedestal.When we put our expectations where they belong, we find peace. We learn patience with others. We see people as fellow pilgrims instead of saviors. And we let Christ be Christ.As always, thank you for tuning into Conversations with Chance Mutuku. Don't forget to rate, comment, and subscribe to the channel.Big love to our sponsors, BBBBLANC* and Kabaka Concept. For more info, catch us here:

To understand our God-given identity, our clear purpose, in a fallen world, we naturally turn to the only perfect human being who has ever lived, the God man, Jesus Christ. He alone defines how we should live, what we should aim for, and what our priorities ought to be. In this uplifting and Christ-centred message, Pastor Watts will strive to help us to "put on and learn from" Christ, and to "imitate" His perfect humanity. We "consider Him". Only Christ has the power, authority and wisdom to lay down the pattern for each of us to follow.

Having been saved are you still hearing, or trying in your own power, to be obedient to save yourself? Only Christ can save...but He calls us to live holy and righteous and empowers us to keep His commands. Share. Make it a great day in the Love & Lordship of Christ (Mark 12:28-31)!

In John 14:6 Jesus declares that He alone is the way to God. A "way" is a passage that makes the unreachable reachable, and without a way, no one can arrive at the destination. Sin separated man from God, leaving mankind lost and unable to find its way back. Jesus did not merely point to a way—He Himself is the way. There is no knowledge of God, no access to the Father, and no hope of eternal life apart from Him. Men are skilled at making roads, bridges, and paths in the world, but spiritually they cannot build a way to God. All human religions, efforts, and self-made paths lead to destruction. Only Christ bridges the great gulf between sinful man and a holy God. To know Jesus is to know the Father; to see Jesus is to see the Father. The Christian life is a journey, not mere observation. Seeing truth is not enough—one must enter the way and follow it. This requires dying to self, abandoning all other ways, and submitting fully to Christ. The way is narrow, simple, ancient, and unchanged, and few find it because few are willing to give up their right to rule their own life and follow Jesus. Jesus is the fulfillment of prophecy, the revelation of God, the mediator between God and man, and the only safe place for the soul. To be "in the way" is to continually look to Jesus, follow His steps, and trust Him through every trial. Salvation and life are found only by looking to Christ, believing Him, and walking in Him.

Work is a gift—but it makes a terrible god. This week in Prepare Him Room, we reflected on how achievement and productivity can quietly replace Jesus as the source of our worth. Ecclesiastes reminds us that true joy isn't found in what we build, but in who we trust. Only Christ can restore our work to what it was meant to be.

Are You Willing to Go Out of Your Way for the ONE?From Andrew bringing Peter, to Philip inviting Bartholomew with a simple “come and see,” Scripture shows us a powerful truth: God reaches people through people.In John 4, Jesus intentionally goes out of His way to pass through Samaria, crossing cultural, social, and spiritual barriers, to meet one woman at a well. At noon. In her shame. And in her thirst.This message challenges us to ask:• How far are we willing to go to reach those far from Jesus?• Do we recognize the thirst in the people around us?• Are we willing to offer the Living Water that truly satisfies?Jesus knew what the world still forgets:• Everyone is thirsty.• Temporary wells always run dry.• Only Christ brings lasting peace, hope, and fulfillment.From celebrities to neighbors, from the successful to the broken, people are drinking, but they're still thirsty. And we have the water.As we close, we take time for a powerful prayer moment, lifting up the names of people we know who are thirsty, asking God for boldness, and trusting the Spirit of the Lord to move.

Turning to John 14:6, we see Jesus' words that He is the way, the truth, and the life. Salvation cannot be divided into parts. I cannot seek the way, the truth, or the life separately or on my own terms. Christ must come first. True salvation is total surrender and union with Him, where He becomes preeminent in my life. Seeking religion, knowledge, moral living, or happiness without Christ always leads to confusion, pride, or emptiness. Many people try to find fulfillment through church activity, doctrine, pleasure, success, or self-made spirituality, but none of these bring real life. Only Christ changes a person, fills the emptiness of the soul, and gives abundant life. Salvation is not a ritual, a prayer alone, or a label—it is Jesus Himself. The call is simple but demanding: seek Christ first. When I know Him, I find myself walking in the true way, knowing the truth that sets me free, and living the life God intended.

Ultimate Reconciliation of All (1) (audio) David Eells – 12/10/25 I have found that the truth always motivates people to holiness, to turn loose of the world and run after God; but a lie always makes people comfortable where they are, and there are a lot of lies out there. People who like to make up their own gospel turn the grace of God into lasciviousness by choosing to believe that once saved is always saved. That means there's no use in taking any warning from the Lord seriously, since that false doctrine negates the possibility of being lost. These people are not motivated because they erroneously believe their “ticket's been punched.” Today, I'm going to speak to you about a doctrine that's in the church denominations called “ultimate reconciliation of all.” Many Unconditional Eternal Security people find this easy to fall into since in effect you cant be lost. Ultimate Reconciliationists believe there will come a time when the wicked, including the devil and his angels, in some cases, will come out of torment and be reconciled to God. This doctrine did not come from Christians but Unitarians and Universalists who brought it from England to the New England colonies in the 18th century. The fruit of this doctrine is the same as that of unconditional eternal security. If no one can ultimately be lost, why fear God or the warnings of Scripture? It destroys motivation to study and obey the Word of God or evangelize the lost and dying. Like the unconditional eternal security people, many of these will take the mark of the beast and are taking the spiritual mark now. What else would the devil have you believe? I have ministered in several churches that believed this. Generally, the people are very prideful and judgmental of those who do not have their “deep revelation”. They are forced to pick and choose verses in order to justify this doctrine, and it makes them disrespect the Word. I have debated many with this doctrine over the years, some on our live internet chat Bible study a few years ago. When they can't back it up with scriptures, they generally resort to insults. We who believe the Word just don't have “the revelation”. Reconciliationists say the Greek words for forever and ever mean “unto the age of the ages”, meaning when used of those in eternal punishment, it is only for a period of time after which everyone comes out of the lake of fire. They lie. “Unto the age of the ages” is only in one place. (Eph.3:21) unto him [be] the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus unto all generations for ever and ever (unto the age of the ages) Amen. Here it says, “unto all generations unto the age of the ages”, which is only as long as men have children, clearly making it a period of time. In the four Greek manuscripts I have, which range from the oldest to the Received Text, the second-to-last Greek letter of “age” in this verse is an omicron, the 17th letter of the Greek alphabet, which makes this word singular, “Age”. In every other place, the second-to-last letter in the word “ages” is an alpha, the 1st letter of their alphabet, making this word plural, “Ages”. In every other case where “forever and ever” is the translation, “unto the ages of ages” is the literal wording, which has no end. The manuscripts and Bible Numerics prove this to be the case. (Rev.14:11) and the smoke of their torment goeth up for ever and ever (unto the ages of ages); and they have no rest day and night, they that worship the beast and his image, and whoso receiveth the mark of his name. There is no end to the fiery punishment. Many will receive the mark because of this false doctrine. That means that God would die if it were only a period of time. Notice in (Rev.15:7) And one of the four living creatures gave unto the seven angels seven golden bowls full of the wrath of God, who liveth for ever and ever. So if they are correct, using the same words, when these people come out of hell, God dies. If it were only a period of time in the following verses, the devil, beast, and false prophet would come out of the lake of fire at the end of that time. (Rev.20:10) And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where are also the beast and the false prophet; and they shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever. Even though many Reconciliationists say they do not believe the devil will be saved, according to this doctrine, he has to be. If there is an end to his torment, God will die for the same phrase is used for the longevity of each. They say that “forever,” Greek: “aionios”, meaning “unto the ages”, is for a period of time, but the Kingdom will cease if that is true. We are told forever is without end. (Luk.1:33) and he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end. Vines says this is a Greek Idiom; i.e., an expression whose meaning cannot be derived from the elements of the word. Idioms can always be explained by their usage in the text. If one said, “After he kicked the bucket, I went to the funeral”, you know that “kicked the bucket” means death. It is so with the Greek word for “for ever” or “eternal”. Forever is clearly set apart from a period of time in this verse: (Phm.15) For perhaps he was therefore parted [from thee] for a season, that thou shouldest have him for ever. Clearly “for ever” is far more than a period of time. They also say eternal, which is the same Greek word, “aionios”, meaning “unto the ages”, and has no end. (Joh.10:28) and I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, and no one shall snatch them out of my hand. Clearly the elect only are eternal and eternal is clearly set apart from a period of time in this verse: (2 Cor.4:18) while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal (temporary or for a season); but the things which are not seen are eternal. If eternal is only a period of time, then at the end of that period, the wicked come out of hell and God and the righteous die. (Mat.25:46) And these shall go away into eternal punishment: but the righteous into eternal life. If “eternal” is only a period of time, then, according to this doctrine, God, the Holy Spirit, the Kingdom of God, the new body, etc., would come to an end; but God is also immortal, i.e., deathless (1 Timothy 6:16); the Holy Spirit is eternal (Hebrews 9:14); the Kingdom is eternal (2 Peter 1:11); and the new body, which is also immortal, i.e., deathless, is eternal (1 Cor­inthians 15:52,53; 2 Corinthians 5:1). Here is the clincher: Those who do not have eternal life will “not see life”. (Joh.3:36) He that believeth on the Son hath eternal life (Greek: aionios; “unto the ages”); but he that obeyeth not the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abideth on him. We can't twist those words. “Not see life” clearly means never. Those who have eternal sin “never” get forgiveness. (Mar.3:29) but whosoever shall blaspheme against the Holy Spirit hath never forgiveness, but is guilty of an eternal sin. Once again, we can't twist those words. Reconciliationists use the following verse to claim that “eternal” has an end. (Rom.16:25) Now to him that is able to establish you according to my gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery which hath been kept in silence through times eternal, (26) but now is manifested, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the eternal God. There is no end of eternity, just as God here is eternal, but there are points in eternity when things are manifested like the revelation of Christ here. From our point of view, eternity goes into the past and into the future. Something may be eternally future without being eternally past. For instance, we have eternal life because we entered into eternity. The spiritual man in Jesus is eternal for he came out of God. His flesh had a beginning for He was sown of God and born of Mary.  And even before that He was “the beginning of the creation of God” and “the first-born of all creation”. This was a point in eternity. When other terminology is used in the Word as we have seen, the Ultimate Reconciliationists are at a loss. (Isa.66:24) And they shall go forth, and look upon the dead bodies of the men that have transgressed against me: for their worm shall not die, neither shall their fire be quenched; and they shall be an abhorring unto all flesh. Clearly the wicked souls do not die for they are in eternal fire. (Job.5:6) How much less man, that is a worm! And the son of man, that is a worm! Which will not come out of fire. (Mar.9:47) ... it is good for thee to enter into the kingdom of God with one eye, rather than having two eyes to be cast into hell; (48) where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched. Notice that using different words they will always be in fire. (Psa.49:19) He shall go to the generation of his fathers; They shall never see the light. Again using other words they will never see the light of truth. They also say, “everlasting” is a period of time, but as we can see, it has no end! (Jer.20:11) But Jehovah is with me as a mighty one [and] a terrible: therefore my persecutors shall stumble, and they shall not prevail; they shall be utterly put to shame, because they have not dealt wisely, even with an everlasting dishonor which shall never be forgotten. Everlasting here is clearly eternal. When I was younger, “Ultimate Reconciliation” was often called the “Restoration of All Things,” taken from the KJV. (Acts 3:21) whom the heaven must receive until the times of restoration of all things (Things is not in the original Greek.), whereof God spake by the mouth of His holy prophets that have been. Restoration here is “apokatastasis,” meaning “back in order”. Only God's people can go back to order because the rest never had order. Notice that when the Lord returns after the Tribulation, the “restoration of all” of His elect is completed. At that time, He is not restoring the wicked but destroying them. (Rev.19:15) And out of his mouth proceedeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness of the wrath of God, the Almighty. Even a thousand years later, when all the wicked are resurrected at the Great White Throne judgment, they are taken from hell and thrown in the lake of fire (Revelation 20:7-15). That makes it clear that “all” is all of the elect, not all people, as even the Jews understood. To the Jews, “all” meant all of the elect. It is the same today. All of the elect, but without racial distinction, classes or conditions of people, rather than just physical Jews. All Israel is all elect Jews and Gentiles who are grafted into the olive tree (Romans 11:19-24,26), not those who are broken off. Compare the “all” in Mark 1:5 and Luke 7:29-30, where “all” is clearly the elect. The “all” whom the Father gives to Jesus are the elect in John 17:6,9 and in John 6:37,45. We see the same thing when we look at John 8:2, Acts 22:15, 2 Corinthians 3:2 and 1 Corinthians 15:22. Compare Romans 12:3 and 2 Thessalonians 3:2. Read 1 Timothy 2:6, Colossians 3:11 and Matthew 20:28. Jesus came to save only all of His own (Isaiah 53:8,11; Luke 1:68,77; Romans 9:21). God is not wishing that any of His people perish (2 Peter 3:9). (Rom.9:11) For [the children] being not yet born, neither having done anything good or bad, that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of works, but of him that calleth, (12) it was said unto her, The elder shall serve the younger. (13) Even as it is written, Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated. Reconciliationists say that God unconditionally loves the whole world and could not fail to save it. They like to use this verse as proof. (Joh.3:16) For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth on him should not perish, but have eternal life. Yet, God clearly specifies what part of the world He loves here as “whosoever believeth”. Jesus disagreed with their interpretation of this verse. (Joh.14:21) He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself unto him. (22) Judas (not Iscariot) saith unto him, Lord, what is come to pass that thou wilt manifest thyself unto us, and not unto the world? (23) Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my word: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. (Joh.15:10) If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his love. (15:14) Ye are my friends, if ye do the things which I command you. Here's even more proof from the Word: (Rom.9:13) Even as it is written, Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated. (Psa.5:5) The arrogant shall not stand in thy sight: Thou hatest all workers of iniquity. (Psa.11:5) Jehovah trieth the righteous; But the wicked and him that loveth violence his soul hateth. (Pro.6:16-19) There are six things which Jehovah hateth; Yea, seven which are an abomination unto him: (17) Haughty eyes, a lying tongue, And hands that shed innocent blood; (18) A heart that deviseth wicked purposes, Feet that are swift in running to mischief, (19) A false witness that uttereth lies, And he that soweth discord among brethren. (Pro.8:17) I love them that love me; And those that seek me diligently shall find me. (Hos.9:15) All their wickedness is in Gilgal; for there I hated them: because of the wickedness of their doings I will drive them out of my house; I will love them no more; all their princes are revolters. Friends, we cannot make God's love a worldly love. God would not be love if He permitted the wicked into His Kingdom to leaven the whole lump. God does not dwell in time and can, therefore, love by faith the elect whom He foreknew and foreordained. (Rom.9:11) for [the children] being not yet born, neither having done anything good or bad, that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of works, but of him that calleth, (12) it was said unto her, The elder shall serve the younger. (13) Even as it is written, Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated. (Psa. 11:5) Jehovah trieth the righteous; But the wicked and him that loveth violence his soul hateth. God's people who live in sin will prove themselves called but not chosen, and He will love them no more. (Hos.9:15) All their wickedness is in Gilgal; for there I hated them: because of the wickedness of their doings I will drive them out of my house; I will love them no more; all their princes are revolters. This is not traditional, but I hope I've made it clear. (1 Cor.15:22) For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ shall all be made alive. Ultimate reconciliationists use this verse to say that those in Adam, the whole natural man creation, and those in Christ, the whole spiritual man creation, are the same people, so therefore God will save all. However, the next verse narrows those “in Christ” to those who are His at His coming. (23) But each in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; then they that are Christ's, at his coming. As most know, when Jesus comes, He will eternally destroy the wicked who were obviously not in Him. (2 Thes.1:7) and to you that are afflicted rest with us, at the revelation of the Lord Jesus from heaven with the angels of his power in flaming fire, (8) rendering vengeance to them that know not God, and to them that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus: (9) who shall suffer punishment, [even] eternal destruction from the face of the Lord....   PREDESTINED AND CHOSEN Let us see who the full measure of those in Christ are, and also if God ever planned to reconcile all of Adam's seed. “Predestine” means “to determine destiny before it happens”. “Foreordain”, which is the same Greek word, means “to ordain an event before it takes place”. (Eph.1:4) even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blemish before him in love: (5) having foreordained us unto adoption as sons through Jesus Christ unto himself, according to the good pleasure of his will. You who are manifesting sonship by bearing fruit have been chosen and are being drawn by God. (Rom.8:29) For whom he foreknew, he also foreordained (predestined) [to be] conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. God foreknew and decreed all who come to the likeness of Jesus, but not the apostate. “Foreknew” here does not mean that He looked into the future and saw what we would be. “Foreknew” here means “to know before” and is not connected with actions or events, but persons. God knew these people before the foundation of the world because He does not dwell in time. God conceives and knows what He creates before He speaks it into existence, just as we conceive and design something first in our mind before we make it. “Knew” speaks of intimate knowledge; for instance, Adam knew Eve. Jesus will say to those who called Him Lord but do not do the will of the Father, (Mat.7:23) “And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you (I.e.,from the foundation of the world): depart from me, ye that work iniquity”. To the foolish virgins who had not the oil of the Spirit, Jesus said, “I know you not”. The ones that God intimately knew He “foreordained” before the creation to be conformed to the image of Jesus. God is creating us through His gift of faith and grace and His Word in us. These are the people on the narrow road. This is grace. (Rom.8:30) and whom he foreordained, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified. We see here that all who are foreordained will be called, justified, and glorified. They will not fall away but will bear the fruit of Christ. Are there others who are called but not foreordained? Let us see. (2 Tim.1:9) who saved us, and called us with a holy calling … Notice that only the saved are called. “Called” is from the Greek word “kaleo”, which means “to invite”. “Called” is an invitation given only to God's people (for more proof, read Hebrews 3:1; Hosea 11:1; 1 Timothy 6:11,12; Matthew 25:14; Romans 1:6,7) to partake of His heavenly benefits in Christ in order to bear fruit. Those who bear fruit 30-, 60-, or 100-fold will be proven to be the chosen, or picked. Naturally, if at harvest time you have no fruit, rotten fruit, or unripe fruit, you will not be picked. The called are the vineyard of God (Isaiah 5:7). The chosen are the much smaller percentage who bear fruit (verse 10). (Mat.22:14) For many are called, but few chosen (Greek: eklektos; “elect”). The “called” can fall, but the elect or chosen will not ultimately. (Hos.11:1) When Israel was a child, then I loved him, and called my son out of Egypt. (2) The more [the prophets] called them, the more they went from them .... The Lord saved those who ate the lamb and were baptized in the Red Sea. He then tried them in the wilderness to see who would be a believer in the midst of trials, and only those entered the Promised Land. Jude warned the called of this very thing. (Jud.1) Jude, a servant of Jesus Christ, and brother of James, to them that are called ... (5) Now I desire to put you in remembrance, though ye know all things once for all, that the Lord, having saved a people out of the land of Egypt, afterward destroyed them that believed not. Notice that the called were saved, but some did not continue in faith to bear fruit and were destroyed. Friends, God is not looking for what we loosely call “Christians”, but believers or disciples, as they were called. Jesus gave us very clear examples of His servants who are called but do not come and partake in order to bear fruit. Jesus shared a parable in which a king made a marriage feast for His son. (Mat.22:3) … and sent forth his servants to call them that were bidden (Greek: “called”) to the marriage feast: and they would not come. They were full of excuses (a farm, merchandise, a new wife, etc.). (Mat.22:8) Then saith he to his servants, The wedding is ready, but they that were bidden were not worthy. Even one who appeared to come did not have on a wedding garment, which implies putting on Christ (Romans 13:14) or putting on righteous acts (Revelation 19:8). (Mat.22:13) Then the king said to the servants, Bind him hand and foot, and cast him out into the outer darkness; there shall be the weeping and the gnashing of teeth. (14) For many are called, but few chosen. A few of the called are chosen or elect because they bear fruit. (Mat.25:14) For [it is] as [when] a man, going into another country, called his own servants (Greek: “bondservants”), and delivered unto them his goods. (15) And unto one he gave five talents, to another two, to another one; to each according to his several ability; and he went on his journey. Obviously, the man who went away was the Lord, and His bondservants are His people. Two of these example servants brought forth fruit of the talent given them (Matthew 25:20-22), but one buried his in the earth (used his talent for the earthly, Matthew 25:24,25). When our Lord returns, He will say, “And cast ye out the unprofitable servant into the outer darkness: there shall be the weeping and the gnashing of teeth” (Mat.25:30). The apostle Paul, who said of himself that he was called in Galatians 1:6, also said, “But I buffet my body, and bring it into bondage: lest by any means, after that I have preached to others, I myself should be rejected” (That's the Greek word for “reprobated”) (1 Cor.9:27). There is much more proof that the saved and the called can fall. Some good examples are 2 Peter 1:9-11; 1 Timothy 6:11,12; Hebrews 3:1,6,12,14, and Romans 11:1-7,19-23. Friend, you probably know if you are called, but are you chosen? You must be diligent in your walk of faith to prove this with fruit. (2Pe.1:10) Wherefore, brethren, give the more diligence to make your calling and election (“choosing”) sure: for if ye do these things (the attributes of Christ listed in verses 5-7), ye shall never stumble: (11) for thus shall be richly supplied unto you the entrance into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. God, at the cross, has already given us everything that we need to bear fruit through faith. (3) Seeing that his divine power hath granted unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that called us by his own glory and virtue; (4) whereby he hath granted unto us his precious and exceeding great promises; that through these ye may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world by lust. Faith in the promises through the midst of trials will give us the fruit. The called have the power and the opportunity. The called and the chosen, or foreordained, use the power by faith and take the opportunity. The only ones who will ultimately be with the Lord are identified in this verse. (Rev.17:14) These shall war against the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them, for he is Lord of lords and King of kings; and they [also shall overcome] that are with him, called and chosen and faithful. Notice that the called who are chosen will be faithful. I did not make these verses up; they are the Word of God. Those who have eyes and ears will see and understand, but the rest will justify their religion and ignore the Scriptures. Before time and the future, God sovereignly spoke the end from the beginning, bringing these things into existence in time. Some would argue, “How could God make a promise to all of His called and then not keep it for those who do not bear fruit?” The answer is that every promise in the Bible is useless until someone walks by faith in it. Our part of the covenant is faith; God's part is power and salvation. We can break the covenant through unbelief. (Num.14:11) And the Lord said unto Moses, How long will this people despise me? and how long will they not believe in me, for all the signs which I have wrought among them? (12) I will smite them with the pestilence, and disinherit them, and will make of thee a nation greater and mightier than they. Notice that God is saying this to His own people who did not believe that He would disinherit them. Lest any believe that God cannot make a promise and then take it back when they do not walk in faith, pay attention to this: (Num.14:23) surely they shall not see the land which I sware unto their fathers, neither shall any of them that despised me see it. (30) surely ye shall not come into the land, concerning which I sware that I would make you dwell therein, save Caleb the son of Jephunneh, and Joshua the son of Nun. (34) and ye shall know my alienation (Hebrew: “revoking of my promise”). Unless we mix faith with God's promises, they are void. (Heb.4:2) For indeed we have had good tidings preached unto us, even as also they (God's people): but the word of hearing did not profit them, because it was not united by faith with them that heard. Many Israelites walked in sin and were disinherited and blotted out of God's book. (Exo.32:33) And the Lord said unto Moses, Whosoever hath sinned against me, him will I blot out of my book. The same is true of the Christians who do not overcome sin. Notice what the Lord said to the church. (Rev.3:5) He that overcometh shall thus be arrayed in white garments; and I will in no wise blot his name out of the book of life... They will be rejected from the body of Christ. (Rev.3:16) So because thou art lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spew thee out of my mouth. Many of God's people, Israel, were broken off because of unbelief, and Christians who were grafted in but do not walk by faith will be too. (Rom.11:20) Well; by their unbelief they were broken off, and thou standest by thy faith. Be not highminded, but fear: (21) for if God spared not the natural branches, neither will he spare thee. (22) Behold then the goodness and severity of God: toward them that fell, severity; but toward thee, God's goodness, if thou continue in his goodness: otherwise thou also shalt be cut off. Those who are still grafted in at the end are called “all Israel”… (26) and so all Israel shall be saved... Those who are still in the Book of Life, still grafted in, are the elect (Greek: “chosen”). (Rom.11:2) God did not cast off his people, which he foreknew ... (5) Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election (Greek: “chosen”) of grace. A remnant is the ones who are left. Notice that they are foreknown and chosen. Sovereign God will have those who are truly His. Abiding in Christ is where salvation is. Some say God gave us the gift of eternal life so He cannot take it back. In Galatians 3:16, we are told, “To Abraham were the promises spoken, and to his seed. He saith not, And to seeds, as of many, but as of one, And to thy seed, which is Christ”. So the promises were given to Christ, not to us individually. The only way the promises are ours is if we abide in Christ. Abiding in Christ is bearing fruit (John 15:1-6), walking as he walked (1 John 2:3-6), believing the same teachings given by Jesus and the apostles (1 John 2:24; Jude 3; Matthew 28:20), not adding or subtracting from the Word (Revelation 22:18,19), not walking in sin (1 John 3:5,6), and keeping his commandments (1 John 3:24). In Christ is the only place we can claim the gift of eternal life. (1Jn.5:11) ... God gave unto us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. God does not have to take His gift back; His people walk out of it. (1 Cor.6:18) ... Every sin that a man doeth is without the body ... When you walk in willful sin, you are not abiding in His body, for in him is no sin (1Jn.3:5). (6) Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not … For instance, fornication, whether spiritual or physical, takes away the members of Christ and makes them members of a harlot (1 Corinthians 6:15,18). Only Christ and those abiding in Him are chosen. (Eph. 1:4) Even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world... Only Christ and those abiding in Him are going to heaven. (Joh.3:13) And no one hath ascended into heaven, but he that descended out of heaven... Jesus Christ is the Manna from heaven, the Word, Who takes up residence in those who love Him; this is the fruit that God is coming to choose. By this time, I am sure some are thinking that they do not measure up. We must first abide in Christ by faith accepting the gospel report that “I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I that live, but Christ living in me: and that [life] which I now live in the flesh I live in faith, [the faith] which is in the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself up for me” (Gal.2:20). Those who walk by faith that they are dead to sin and Christ now lives in them are accounted as righteous until God uses that faith to manifest righteousness in them. (Gal.3:6) Even as Abraham believed God, and it was reckoned unto him for righteousness. Amen. Next, I'd like to share with you a couple of testimonies from our website of people who received the revelation of the error in their thinking concerning their own salvation.   Coming Judgment on the Lukewarm Sandy - 01/15/2014 I had a dream that thousands of demons entered my bedroom, then jumped on me while I was in bed, devouring my flesh. I was totally paralyzed. I repeatedly shouted out, “You must flee, in the name of Jesus!” These demons continued to attack me. There was total darkness -- no Jesus. It was HORRIFYING. I felt as though I was in the pits of hell, and this is where my soul is going if I don't change my ways. Then I was whisked away, and I was standing in front of a large cross. From the center of the cross, a bright light was shining. I heard the Lord say to me, “Come to the cross. I did not hear or respond to your cries because you are not abiding in Me. Horrific evil is here, and more is coming, and if you do not abide in Me, you will be devoured. I will not hear nor respond to your cries, if you do not abide in me, and you will not be able to fight off this evil in your own strength”.  Then I was whisked back to my bed, where the demons were devouring me again. I was once again paralyzed. I breathed on them, saying, “Jesus”, and they eventually all fled. I woke up with tears streaming down my face, crying out to the Lord. Now, here is what is so IRONIC: I considered myself to be a born-again, saved Christian! Over the past few years, I've started to walk in the ways of the world, thinking it is okay because ‘I know the Lord loves me; I am a good person and I am saved.' How many other Christians are thinking in the same way? How many other Christians are not truly saved? I turned away from Jesus in my walk. It was a slow and subtle turning away, convincing myself all along the way that I can walk my walk, give the Lord ‘courtesy prayer' and everything will be okay. I WAS SO WRONG.  Thank You, LORD, for Your warning, as horrifying as it was. Thank You, LORD, for giving me another chance to make You Lord of my life.   My Salvation and Deliverance from Satanic Music James Austin - 07/08/2008 When I was a child and up to the age of 15, I had gone to some Baptist and Methodist churches off and on. I had even been what I believed at the time to be saved and baptized. I never really placed importance in my salvation as most Christians at the time. I was scared about hell, so I thought if I got saved, then I would go to heaven and still do whatever I wanted. When I was about 16, I cared only about the world and gave God no attention at all. I was associating with people who weren't Christian and listening to music that wasn't Godly. I began to stop believing that there was a God and didn't care if He even existed. A year and a half ago, I was up late one night and I had nothing to do and I started thinking about life and the world and I felt a sudden loneliness and sadness, and I looked up and said, “God, if You are real and Your Word is true, then help me; I want to know the truth.” I don't think it was even two weeks and God led a brother I work with by the name of Nehemiah to me to inquire about carpooling with me. By this time, I had forgotten about what I had asked God. I was still listening to satanic music and living very worldly. The first week he rode with me to work, I didn't play any music because I began to feel ashamed and did not want people to know which music I listened to. At this time, I didn't know Nehemiah was a Christian. A few weeks later, someone else with whom we were carpooling informed me that Nehemiah was a Christian. Then I really felt low and inadequate to be around him. One day, I was looking at some space nebula and stuff, and I saw what looked like Jesus' face in one of these objects in space. Then I started thinking about God even more. I asked Nehemiah one day about it, and we began talking, and he told me some things the Bible spoke of. Then, after about two weeks of talking and debating with him, he led me to your website, and I started reading and listening to some of your stuff and became very fearful of where I was headed. That morning when I got home from work, I cried to God to forgive me and save me. I confessed to so many evil things I had done and wept, and then felt a peace come over me. I have been reading and listening to your programs and teachings ever since, and I feel the Holy Spirit every time I do. God began to work in me, and I bought your “Sovereign God” book and an ASV Bible. Now I have the New Testament on audio, and I only have the desire to listen to music that glorifies God, and I listen and read the Word of God. I have lost the desire to watch all TV programs because I can now see the sinful nature of TV and how TV glorifies sin. I believe God has saved me and He also healed me from plantar fasciitis (a painful tendon injury) by faith alone. Glory to God! God Bless you, brothers and sisters. I don't listen to evil music, and I feel better inside. God has really changed me. Thank you! I had sent an email about my wife a while ago, but I couldn't remember if I had ever given my testimony to you. My wife is still an unbeliever, but I continue to pray for her salvation. I believe that one day God, in some way, will also save her.

Key Points:Christmas begins in eternity—Jesus existed before creation.Jesus is the eternal Word (Logos) who is fully God.Jesus created all things and is the source of life.His life is the light humanity desperately needs.Darkness can't overcome His light—ever.Our personal darkness has a beginning, but Jesus does not.Only Christ can fill the “God-sized hole” in every human heart.No darkness in our lives is too deep for Jesus to reach.We're called to bring hidden darkness into His light.God invites us into an exchange: darkness for light, sin for righteousness, death for life.Chapter Timescodes & Linked Key Points:00:00 – Opening Prayer00:36 – When Christmas “comes to town”02:25 – Light vs. Darkness Illustration03:41 – Jesus: The Eternal Word04:47 – What “Logos” Means05:49 – Why Jesus Being Eternal Matters – Key Point 606:58 – Jesus the Creator – Key Point 308:54 – Jesus as Life and Light – Key Points 4 & 709:31 – Why the World Was Dark Before Christ10:04 – The Light Shines in the Darkness – Key Points 5 & 811:10 – Present Tense Light: Jesus Still Shines12:10 – Darkness Throughout Scripture Fails to Win13:06 – Takeaway #1: No Darkness Too Deep – Key Point 814:42 – Takeaway #2: Bring Darkness Into the Light – Key Point 915:39 – Old Testament Sacrifice Imagery – Key Point 10Scripture References:John 1:1–5 – Central passageGenesis 1 – “In the beginning” connectionBiblical narrative references (not direct readings):Garden of EdenPharaohBabylonHerodThe CrossResurrection reference (“third day”) -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------We're so glad you're here! Visit us online at www.orrville.church Or connect with us on:• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/orrvillechristian.church/ • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/orrvillechristian/• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@orrvillechristianchurch5959 If you'd like to partner with us in giving, you can give online here: https://www.occgive.com/ As our guest, please feel no pressure to give—this is for those who call OCC home. Let us know you're listening! Fill out a Connection Card: https://www.orrville.church/connect We'd love to meet you in person! Join us any Sunday at 8:30, 9:45, or 11:00 AM

Send us your feedback — we're listeningJOHN 14 : 6 — JESUS IS THE WAY, THE TRUTH AND THE LIFE : NATIONAL PRAYER FOR AMERICA Scripture (NIV)“Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.'”— John 14 : 6Recorded live here in London, England with Reverend Ben Cooper.At 6 P.M., we lift the United States of America before the throne of Christ.John 14 : 6 reminds us that Jesus alone is the way for a nation in need of truth.Across America, Canada, Mexico and the United Kingdom, believers search for guidance and stability.In Christ, division can turn to unity and fear can turn to faith.The Holy Spirit brings clarity where confusion has ruled.Tonight we pray for America to turn its heart back to Jesus Christ.ContextAmerica stands at a crossroads of spiritual, cultural and moral tension. Jesus declares that He is the way, the truth and the life, a message that brings hope to a nation wrestling with uncertainty. Only Christ provides the clarity, healing and unity America longs for. His truth restores hearts and His life brings renewal.When a nation loses sight of truth, Jesus calls it back to Himself. The Holy Spirit works quietly in homes, churches and communities, stirring hunger for righteousness and peace. Christ invites America to walk in His way, trust His truth and find life in His presence. Real change begins not in politics but in surrendered hearts.Intercession and VisionWe pray for America, and for Canada, Mexico and the United Kingdom.Lord, let Your truth rise in every city and every home.Strengthen pastors, families, leaders and churches with courage and grace.May the Holy Spirit bring unity, healing and revival across America. Prayer for America to follow the way of Jesus Christ.Ask God to bring unity and healing across the nation.Prayer for truth to rise in times of confusion.Ask the Holy Spirit to renew churches and leaders.Prayer for families seeking peace and direction.Ask Jesus to guide the nation through uncertainty.Prayer for revival and spiritual awakening in the USA.Ask God to heal division and restore hope.Prayer for protection and wisdom for national leaders.Thank Jesus that He is the way, the truth and the life for every nation.Life ApplicationPray today for America and for your own nation. DecSupport the showFor more inspiring content, visit RBChristianRadio.net — your home for daily devotionals, global prayer, and biblical encouragement for every season of life. We invite you to connect with our dedicated prayer hub at DailyPrayer.uk — a place where believers from every nation unite in prayer around the clock. If you need prayer, or would like to leave a request, this is the place to come. Our mission is simple: to pray with you, to stand with you, and to keep the power of prayer at the centre of everyday life. Your support through DailyPrayer.uk helps us continue sharing the gospel and covering the nations in prayer. You can also discover our ministry services and life celebrations at LifeCelebrant.net — serving families with faith, dignity, and hope. If this devotional blesses you, please consider supporting our listener-funded mission by buying us a coffee through RBChristianRadio.net. Every prayer, every gift, and every share helps us keep broadcasting God's Word to the world.

Malachi Tresler. Galatians 4:4-5. "Only Christ the God-man, in his saving work, can solve our guilt and give us hope."

Send us your feedback — we're listeningJohn 14 : 6 — The Way, the Truth and the Life : Prayer for Healing and Restoration in Zimbabwe “Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.'” — John 14 : 6Recorded live here in London, England with Reverend Ben Cooper.At 6 P.M. our prayers rise for the nation of Zimbabwe and for all who seek a way through trouble. John 14 : 6 reveals that Jesus is not a path among many — He is the Way itself. Across Zimbabwe, Kenya, South Africa and Malawi, believers look to Christ for truth and restoration. Where corruption wounds and poverty cries, His truth brings light. Jesus still heals broken nations and restores those who follow Him. Tonight we pray for Zimbabwe to walk the way of Jesus toward hope and renewal.Paragraph 1 – Context Zimbabwe has walked through many storms — economic strain, division and loss — yet its faithful people continue to pray. John 14 : 6 speaks to a nation seeking truth amid uncertainty. Only Christ can lead a people from confusion to clarity, from brokenness to peace.Paragraph 2 – Reflection Jesus is the answer to every question Zimbabwe faces. He is the truth that sets leaders free and the life that restores communities. When a nation walks His way, justice and mercy follow. His hands still heal the land and His voice still calls, “Follow Me.”Paragraph 3 – Intercession & Vision We pray for Zimbabwe, Kenya, South Africa and Malawi. Let hope rise where despair has lingered. Bring wisdom to leaders, unity to the Church and healing to the land. May Christ the Way lead this nation into truth and life.Prayer PointsPray for healing and restoration in Zimbabwe.Prayer for leaders to walk in truth and justice.Ask Jesus to guide the nation into peace.Prayer for revival and unity across Africa.Declare that Christ is the Way for Zimbabwe.Pray for hope to rise in homes and churches.Ask God to heal economy and community divides.Prayer for young believers to follow Jesus boldly.Pray for truth to expose corruption and bring light.Thank God that Jesus still restores nations.Life ApplicationWhen the path seems uncertain, say John 14 : 6 aloud and follow the Support the showFor more inspiring content, visit RBChristianRadio.net — your home for daily devotionals, global prayer, and biblical encouragement for every season of life. We invite you to connect with our dedicated prayer hub at DailyPrayer.uk — a place where believers from every nation unite in prayer around the clock. If you need prayer, or would like to leave a request, this is the place to come. Our mission is simple: to pray with you, to stand with you, and to keep the power of prayer at the centre of everyday life. Your support through DailyPrayer.uk helps us continue sharing the gospel and covering the nations in prayer. You can also discover our ministry services and life celebrations at LifeCelebrant.net — serving families with faith, dignity, and hope. If this devotional blesses you, please consider supporting our listener-funded mission by buying us a coffee through RBChristianRadio.net. Every prayer, every gift, and every share helps us keep broadcasting God's Word to the world.

This message was given by Pastor Dan Greenfield during Orwell Bible Church's morning service, November 9, 2025.In Hebrews 10:19-21 we see that Only Christ gives access to God!You can download this outline to follow along and take notes. 

Because Christ has triumphed in the cross, no one can judge Christians based on those things that Jesus has fulfilled. The Old Testament regulations concerning food and drink and Sabbaths are a shadow of the body of Christ who has now been revealed. Although false preachers peddle practices that may look religious, any worship or piety that does not teach us to cling to Christ has no value. Only Christ, the Head of the Church, can hold His body together and cause it to grow and bear fruit.  Rev. Ryan Ogrodowicz, pastor at Grace Lutheran Church and School in Brenham, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Colossians 2:16-23.  To learn more about Grace Lutheran, visit gracebrenham.org. “Letters from Prison” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that studies Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon. Even when Paul was imprisoned for the sake of Christ, the Word of God remained unbound. The apostle's letters from prison still fill us with the same joy that his chains could never silence. Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timothy Appel, looks at the text of Holy Scripture both in its broad context and its narrow detail, all for the sake of proclaiming Christ crucified and risen for sinners. Two pastors engage with God's Word to sharpen not only their own faith and knowledge, but the faith and knowledge of all who listen. Submit comments or questions to: listener@kfuo.org

Send us a textThis episode was originally released as a Patreon-only bonus episode on the 5th of March 2025.Episode Summary:In this special bonus episode, I explore the political thought of Hannah Arendt—particularly her seminal work The Origins of Totalitarianism—from a biblical and theological perspective. Arendt's analysis of 20th-century totalitarianism is as relevant today as ever, but what happens when we place her ideas alongside the timeless truths of Scripture?We begin with a look back at the philosophical split between Plato's “contemplative life” and the “active life” exemplified by Socrates and Aristotle. Arendt's critique of Western philosophy's retreat from political engagement opens up rich questions for Christians: Is our faith a private, introspective affair—or a public, active witness?Drawing from The Origins of Totalitarianism and The Human Condition, this episode reflects on:The spiritual and moral roots of totalitarian regimesThe dangers of ideological conformity and the erosion of personal responsibilityThe biblical understanding of action, identity, and communityThe importance of grounding public and political life in divine truthWe also examine Arendt's critique of Enlightenment thought, her categories of Labor, Work, and Action, and how they hold up against a biblical vision of human purpose and flourishing.Key Themes:Faith in Action: Christianity is not merely a contemplative retreat—it calls us to be salt and light in the world (Matthew 5:13–16).The Heart of the Problem: Totalitarianism is ultimately a manifestation of humanity's fallen nature, not just failed politics.Identity in Christ: Unlike Arendt's political anthropology, the Bible teaches that identity is found not through action alone but in relationship with God (Genesis 1:27, Galatians 3:26).Political Systems and the Gospel: Both capitalism and Marxism fall short of the biblical vision for justice, mercy, and dignity.True Freedom: Jesus declares, “You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free” (John 8:32)—a freedom deeper than political liberation.Scripture References:Matthew 5:13–16John 8:32Genesis 1:271 John 4:8Matthew 4:4Matthew 6:19–20Micah 6:8Acts 2:44–45Galatians 3:26Featured Thinkers:Hannah Arendt – Political theorist known for her works on totalitarianism, authority, and the nature of political life.Plato & Socrates – Contrasting visions of philosophy and public life.Stanley Milgram – Psychologist whose experiments reveal the dangers of blind obedience.Takeaway:Arendt's analysis challenges us to reflect deeply on the nature of evil, the meaning of action, and the role of individuals in resisting oppressive systems. But as Christians, we recognize that no amount of political engagement can change the human heart. Only Christ can do that. And through Him, we're called not just to think, but to live faithfully in the world—witSupport the showTo listen to my monthly church history podcast, subscribe at; https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.com For an ad-free version of my podcasts plus the opportunity to enjoy hours of exclusive content and two bonus episodes a month whilst also helping keep the Bible Project Daily Podcast free for listeners everywhere support me at;|PatreonSupport me to continue making great content for listeners everywhere.https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.com

In this episode of the C-Suite for Christ Podcast, we're declaring war on the counterfeit religions of Communism and Antifa. A spiritual war is raging for the soul of our nation, fought not with tanks, but with ideologies that have a single mission: to dethrone God.This episode pulls back the mask on two of the enemy's most effective weapons: Communism and Antifa. These aren't just political theories; they are counterfeit religions, preaching a gospel of rebellion, envy, and chaos. From Marx's blood-soaked history to the modern-day riots in our streets, the same serpent is at work, promising utopia while delivering tyranny.We're here to arm you with the truth. To expose the lies disguised as "social justice" and "equity." And to call the church to stop whispering while the world burns.Buckle up. This isn't a political debate; it's spiritual warfare."For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms." – Ephesians 6:12Episode Highlights:32:17 - You can't legislate love or redistribute righteousness. Only Christ can do that. Communism enslaves people economically. Antifa enslaves them emotionally. One binds the body, the other binds the mind. Both promise liberation and deliver slavery.43:16 - Antifa's tactics don't end with the riots of 2020. They've evolved. The group learned that you don't need to burn cities when you can burn reputations. Cancel Culture is Antifa's digital weapon. Social pressure is its firebomb. Today they don't wear masks in March; they wear HR badges and moderate your social media.54:23 - Silence in the face of evil is not neutrality, it's surrender. Speaking truth in love is not hate speech, it's hope speech. The most loving thing you can do for someone lost in deception is to tell them the truth.Connect with Paul M. NeubergerWebsite

The Upside-Down KingdomWhen we return to the opening chapters of Luke, we're reminded that Christ's coming wasn't just a gentle story, but it was a world turned upside down. He comes to a world infected by sin and a world that is cursed. The world will not self-heal. He came to lift up the humble and bring down the proud, to establish not another earthly power struggle but a kingdom of shalom that is a kingdom of true peace. This peace isn't mere tolerance; it's the deep rest and joy of knowing and enjoying God. It is the peace where we can enjoy the goodness of our God with sin removed. Every kingdom of man tries to force peace by control or fear, but Christ brings peace by redeeming and removing sin. His rule doesn't crush; it restores. His victory doesn't humiliate; it heals.When the Light Reveals the DistancePeter's story shows us how easy it is to follow Christ “from a distance.” The same man who once swore he would die for Jesus now keeps space between himself and the Savior. Around the fire that night, Peter's face was lit by its glow, but he was not really in the light. Three times he was asked if he knew Jesus, and three times he said no. He had chances to repent, but he continued to deny. Then, on the last denial, he heard the rooster crow and then made eye contact with our Lord. Christ has shown that he is a prophet. He has shown that we are weak in the flesh. And Peter wept bitterly, realizing that the Savior he had denied. Peter's bravado and confidence will not save him. Only Christ laying down his life could save sinners and empower sinners to live for our redeemer. The Silent Strength of the SaviorWhile Peter wept, Christ was struck, mocked, and blindfolded. The soldiers demanded, “Prophesy! Tell us who hit you!” The tragedy is that they fail to realize the irony that Christ had already prophesied Peter's denial moments before. They wanted a prophet to perform on demand, but they didn't understand that a true prophet speaks when the word of the Lord comes, not when men command it. The One they beat could have summoned an army of angels, but instead, He remained silent. The silence of Christ that night was not weakness, but it was power restrained. In choosing the cross, He chose the only path that could bring sinners home and make peace real. He will submit to His father's will. The King Who Will Not Play Our GamesWhen the religious leaders questioned Jesus, demanding, “Are you the Christ?” He didn't argue or plead. He knew their hearts were closed. Instead, He spoke of the Son of Man who would sit at the right hand of God—a quiet claim of divinity, kingship, and victory. They could not see that the bruised and bloodied man before them was the Warrior-King of Psalm 110 and the eternal Son of Man from Daniel 7. They mocked Him as powerless, but He was already winning the greatest battle of all: defeating sin, enduring wrath, and securing a kingdom that will never end. His restraint was His triumph, His humility His glory.

When the Heart and Mind Agree: Finding Peace in Christ The prophet Joel calls the priests and people to repentance and fasting, . . . . . . warning that “the Day of the Lord” will bring judgment for those who remain unconverted but salvation for those who turn back to God with sincere hearts. True conversion means harmony between the heart and the mind . . . when our thoughts and desires are aligned with God's truth. Jesus illustrates this in the Gospel by confronting the Pharisees, who accuse Him of casting out demons by the power of the devil. Their hearts recognize His goodness, yet their minds reject Him out of pride and deceit, revealing an inner division. Jesus teaches that a “house divided against itself cannot stand” and warns that a heart cleansed of evil must be filled with God's grace, or else greater evils will return. The Homily concludes with an invitation to examine our own hearts: Are we filled with the Spirit of God or with division? True conversion brings harmony within us and, through us, harmony to our families, Church, and world. Only Christ, who is Truth itself, can bring this lasting peace and unity. Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to: When the Heart and Mind Agree: Finding Peace in Christ ---------------------------------------------------- Art Work Christ And The Rich Young Ruler (cropped): German Painter: Heinrich Hoffman: 1899 ---------------------------------------------------- Gospel Reading: Luke 11: 15-26 First Reading: Joel 1: 13-15; 2: 1-2

As Paul traveled around the Roman world, he had made numerous disciples in various places. They were all regular people, and they all had different home towns. But they began to congregate around him, and the truly international nature of the Christian church began to take shape. It was becoming visible. The secularists play at unity and diversity, but it always veers to one side or the other. It either collapses into an anarchic mess, or it solidifies into a total state.Only Christ can give us form and freedom together. Paul had gathered these men together, and he was going to Jerusalem with them, a trip that would certainly underscore the point.

Send us a textEver feel the tug to add “just one more thing” to feel truly saved? We go straight at that impulse through Galatians 5–6, tracing Paul's fierce defense of justification by faith alone and exposing the many modern add-ons that sneak in as spiritual upgrades—baptism as a condition of salvation, calendar rules as gates, or flashy gifts as proof of new birth. The message is bracing and freeing: the law can diagnose your sin, but it can't cure it. Only Christ can, and He has.From there, we unpack Paul's vivid contrast between the works of the flesh and the fruit of the Spirit. The list of vices is not a scold; it's a verdict that life apart from the Spirit ends in ruin. Then comes the turn: against love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control there is no law. These graces are not a to-do list but the Spirit's harvest in people who belong to Jesus. No condemnation can stick to them.We anchor on Galatians 5:24–26 and ask what it really means to “crucify the flesh.” Romans 6 helps: through union with Christ, we died with Him and were raised to new life. Sin's dominion has been broken, even if its temptations remain. We also highlight a neglected jewel: Christ's active obedience. He fulfilled the law for us; His perfect righteousness is credited to us by faith. That's why sanctification can be pursued without becoming a secret strategy to re-earn God's favor. We don't work for life; we work from life.If this resonates, follow the show, share it with a friend who's wrestling with grace versus performance, and leave a quick review to help others find conversations that keep the gospel clear and the heart anchored in Christ.Support the show

Romans 9 opens with Paul's heart breaking for his people, the Israelites. Even though they had received incredible blessings from God, so many missed that Jesus is the Messiah. His grief shows us what it means to love people who are far from God with compassion, humility, and urgency.In this message, Pastor Jamie unpacks what it means to have a heart that breaks for what breaks God's heart. From Paul's sorrow in Romans 9, to the warnings of grieving the Holy Spirit in Isaiah 63 and Ephesians 4, we're reminded that rebellion and disobedience don't just break rules, they wound the very heart of God.Key takeaways from this sermon: • A broken heart for the lost | Like Paul, do we ache for our neighbors, family, and friends who don't know Christ? • God's promises never fail | Belonging to God is not about pedigree, background, or performance, but about His promise fulfilled in Christ. • Grieving the Holy Spirit | Our choices, attitudes, and words can bring sorrow to God's Spirit when we resist His work in us. • Everyone has a story, but all need Jesus | Our past, religion, or morality can't save us. Only Christ can.This is a call to pray, to weep, and to witness with urgency. If Paul could weep for Israel, and Christ could die for the world, then surely we can let God break our hearts for the people right in front of us.Follow us!WEBSITE: https://www.compassiondickson.church/FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/compassiondicksonINSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/compassionchurchdickson?igsh=eXp3Mm9ubG81aTQx&utm_source=qrSunday Extended Podcast: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLRTsMFJ4TR5xa0PahwBjfzWK772IOi9G8&si=lsIu5iqaQwl79Jwj

Romans 2: Hypocrisy, Judgment, and the Circumcision of the HeartPaul turns the camera around. After exposing pagan sin in Romans 1, he indicts the religious in Romans 2—people who condemn others while doing the same things. God's judgment is according to truth, His kindness is meant to lead us to repentance, and there is no partiality with Him. Whether you've got the Law (Jews) or only a conscience (Gentiles), we all stand guilty—and we all need a righteousness not our own. True belonging to God is not an outward badge but an inward work of the Spirit: a circumcised heart.God's impartial, truth-based judgment exposes religious hypocrisy and drives us to Christ, whose righteousness alone covers our guilt and renews our hearts by the Spirit.Shift of focus: from Gentile sin (Rom. 1) to Jewish hypocrisy (Rom. 2).“O man”—Paul directly confronts his own people.Problem: condemning others while practicing the same sins.Jesus already warned us: the plank vs. the speck (Matt. 7:3).God's judgment is always according to truth—no spin, no loopholes.“Every mouth will be stopped” (Rom. 3:19).Don't mistake God's patience for permission; His kindness is meant to lead to repentance, not complacency.Every unrepentant sin “deposits” wrath for the day of judgment.God renders to each according to deeds:Eternal life for those who persevere in doing good, seeking His glory.Wrath for the self-seeking and disobedient.No partiality—Jew and Gentile are judged by the same standard.Jews with the Law perish by the Law; Gentiles without the Law perish without it—conscience bears witness.Universal guilt: everyone fails the light they've received.Final judgment will expose “the secrets of men”—through Christ Jesus.Only Christ's righteousness can cover our shame and make us right.Israel boasted in the Law—guides, teachers, lights—but didn't practice it.Result: God's name is blasphemed among the nations.Today's parallel: church folks who boast in the Bible but live contrary to it.The critique “the church is full of hypocrites” is real—but the church is a hospital for sinners, not a museum for saints.Circumcision is an outward sign; without inward reality it's meaningless.True circumcision is of the heart, by the Spirit, not merely by the letter.Modern parallels: baptism and membership are signs—not salvation.God judges impartially and truthfully; excuses won't stand.God's kindness is not approval of sin; it's an invitation to repent.Religious performance can hide a hard heart—only the Spirit gives a new one.We don't need a better mask; we need Christ's righteousness.

Because we know that God is faithful to provide all that we need, we must not allow our hearts to covet anything that belongs to another and instead strive to find our contentment in Christ alone. I. The Subtle Sin of Coveting Ex 20:17 II. As Human Beings We are Driven by Our Desires III. Only Christ by Faith Can Satisfy Your Heart, so it is Him you Must Go Php 4:11-13

Color: Green Old Testament: Genesis 50:15–21 Psalm: Psalm 138; antiphon: v. 8b Epistle: Romans 8:18–23 Epistle: Romans 12:14–21 Gospel: Luke 6:36–42 Introit: Psalm 27:3–4a, 5; antiphon: vv. 1–2 Gradual: Psalm 79:9–10a Verse: Psalm 9:4b, 9 Christ's Mercy Is Ours to Show to Others   “Be merciful, even as your Father also is merciful” (Luke 6:36–42). The old Adam in us wants to condemn and seek vengeance. But the Lord says, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay” (Rom. 12:14–21). To condemn, to avenge yourself, is to put yourself in the place of God. It is to fail to trust that He is just. Ultimately, it is to disbelieve that Jesus suffered the full vengeance for all wrongs. Only Christ is merciful as the Father is merciful. He is the one who overcame all evil with the good of His cross, forgiving even His executioners. Jesus is our Joseph, who comforts us with words of pardon and reconciliation (Gen. 50:15–21). He is the One who does not condemn but gives life that runs over. Only through faith in Christ are we sons of the Father—being merciful, forgiving, doing good to our enemies. For in Christ we know that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us (Rom. 8:8–13). Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship

Why are so many Christian men living with everything—money, status, followers, even a family—yet dying inside?   In this raw and spirit-filled conversation, Frank sits down with Comeback Kings founder Preston Ely, a man who made millions, planted over 40,000 churches, and still found himself broken… until God rebuilt him from the inside out.   This episode dives deep into why most men today are still wearing masks—especially the mask of pride—and why no man can take that mask off himself. Only Christ can.   Preston and Frank hold nothing back as they unpack identity, ego, addiction, and what it really means to walk in true masculine authority as a son of God.   Frank also shares his own personal testimony, his journey to Christ, and the major transformation behind rebranding Rebuilt Recovery to The Rebuilt Man—a shift from simply quitting porn to fully becoming the man God created you to be.    

As we travel, we understand the horizon is always moving. The same is true in our desperate search for peace. In this program, Chip tells us peace is not a thing to be achieved, but a secret to be discovered.Introduction: What would it take for you to be content? Content: Happy enough with what one has or is; not desiring something more or different; satisfied. -Webster's DictionaryThe Problem: The horizon is always moving.Two Historical Solutions:Conquer, achieve, and acquire until satisfied.Desire less and less until it doesn't matter.The Question: How can we be satisfied…today?The Answer: Philippians 4:10-13The Occasion: A “Thank You” Note -Philippians 4:10-13The Conclusion: Contentment is not a thing to be achieved, but a secret to be discovered.How?Four Principles – Four Practices:Principle #1 - Our contentment is not dependent on our circumstances. Practice = BE THANKFUL/GRATEFUL -Philippians 4:10Principle #2 - Contentment is an attitude we learn not a thing we achieve.Practice = BE TEACHABLE -Philippians 4:11Principle #3 - Prosperity does not have the power to give us contentment; nor poverty the power to take it away.Practice = BE FLEXIBLE / CHANGEABLE -Philippians 4:12Principle #4 - Only Christ has the power to give us a contentment that transcends all life's variables.Practice = BE CONTENT / TRUSTING -Philippians 4:13Conclusion: Contentment is not passive acceptance of the status quo, but the positive assurance that God has supplied one's needs, and the consequent release from unnecessary desires.Broadcast ResourceDownload Free MP3Message NotesAdditional Resource Mentions"I Choose Peace" BookConnect888-333-6003WebsiteChip Ingram AppInstagramFacebookTwitterPartner With UsDonate Online888-333-6003

In this program, Chip explains four principles and four related practices that will increase our peace and provide absolute assurance that our needs are provided for, even in the midst of life's most difficult circumstances.Introduction: What would it take for you to be content?Content: Happy enough with what one has or is; not desiring something more or different; satisfied. -Webster's DictionaryThe Problem: The horizon is always moving.Two Historical Solutions:Conquer, achieve, and acquire until satisfied.Desire less and less until it doesn't matter.The Question: How can we be satisfied…today?The Answer: Philippians 4:10-13The Occasion: A “Thank You” Note -Philippians 4:10-13The Conclusion: Contentment is not a thing to be achieved, but a secret to be discovered.How?Four Principles – Four Practices:Principle #1 - Our contentment is not dependent on our circumstances.Practice = BE THANKFUL/GRATEFUL -Philippians 4:10Principle #2 - Contentment is an attitude we learn not a thing we achieve.Practice = BE TEACHABLE -Philippians 4:11Principle #3 - Prosperity does not have the power to give us contentment; nor poverty the power to take it away.Practice = BE FLEXIBLE / CHANGEABLE -Philippians 4:12Principle #4 - Only Christ has the power to give us a contentment that transcends all life's variables.Practice = BE CONTENT / TRUSTING -Philippians 4:13Conclusion: Contentment is not passive acceptance of the status quo, but the positive assurance that God has supplied one's needs, and the consequent release from unnecessary desires.Broadcast ResourceDownload Free MP3Message NotesAdditional Resource Mentions"I Choose Peace" BookConnect888-333-6003WebsiteChip Ingram AppInstagramFacebookTwitterPartner With UsDonate Online888-333-6003

As we travel, we understand the horizon is always moving. The same is true in our desperate search for peace. In this program, Chip tells us peace is not a thing to be achieved, but a secret to be discovered.Introduction: What would it take for you to be content?Content: Happy enough with what one has or is; not desiring something more or different; satisfied. -Webster's DictionaryThe Problem: The horizon is always moving.Two Historical Solutions:Conquer, achieve, and acquire until satisfied.Desire less and less until it doesn't matter.The Question: How can we be satisfied…today?The Answer: Philippians 4:10-13The Occasion: A “Thank You” Note -Philippians 4:10-13The Conclusion: Contentment is not a thing to be achieved, but a secret to be discovered.How?Four Principles – Four Practices:Principle #1 - Our contentment is not dependent on our circumstances.Practice = BE THANKFUL/GRATEFUL -Philippians 4:10Principle #2 - Contentment is an attitude we learn not a thing we achieve.Practice = BE TEACHABLE -Philippians 4:11Principle #3 - Prosperity does not have the power to give us contentment; nor poverty the power to take it away.Practice = BE FLEXIBLE / CHANGEABLE -Philippians 4:12Principle #4 - Only Christ has the power to give us a contentment that transcends all life's variables.Practice = BE CONTENT / TRUSTING -Philippians 4:13Conclusion: Contentment is not passive acceptance of the status quo, but the positive assurance that God has supplied one's needs, and the consequent release from unnecessary desires.Broadcast ResourceDownload Free MP3Message NotesAdditional Resource Mentions"I Choose Peace" BookConnect888-333-6003WebsiteChip Ingram AppInstagramFacebookTwitterPartner With UsDonate Online888-333-6003

Too often in life, we strive to find something in this world to fill our hearts with the joy and peace that can only be found in Christ alone. Solomon knew well what our human life is like. He frustrated himself with working endlessly for things that fall apart. He chased after academic pursuits and found no satisfaction in them, either. Nor did he hold back from building an empire and indulging in pleasure. Simply "upgrading" our lives will not bring satisfaction. And everything in our lives will be left behind us when we die, and we'll have zero control over them. Only Christ can ever satisfy our souls! We can thank Him and find simple joy in the good gifts He's given us. Stop striving, and receive joy from His hands! Seek after His Kingdom, not a vain empire of your own.

What Do You Mean, There's More to This? In this episode, we answer a listener's question about Taylor Swift that leads us into a conversation about symbols and meaning, religious iconography, wild truth, and seeing reality through what's occurring in the sacraments. SHOW NOTES:  Tolkein - The monsters and the critics, and other essays https://archive.org/details/monsterscriticso0000tolk Martin Luther's Commentary On Saint Paul's Epistle To The Galatians https://shop.1517.org/products/9781945978241-martin-luthers-commentary-on-saint-pauls-epistle-to-the-galatians  ST. BASIL OF CAESAREA - To a fallen virgin https://www.newadvent.org/fathers/3202046.htm Only Christ, Not OnlyFans https://www.1517.org/articles/only-christ-not-onlyfans Rembering Your Baptism https://amzn.to/4eFN3Gs   More from 1517: Support 1517 Podcast Network: https://www.1517.org/donate-podcasts 1517 Podcasts: http://www.1517.org/podcasts 1517 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@1517org 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/channel/1517-podcast-network/id6442751370 1517 Events Schedule: https://www.1517.org/events 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education: https://academy.1517.org/   What's New from 1517: Sinner Saint by By Luke Kjolhaug: https://shop.1517.org/products/9781964419152-sinner-saint The Impossible Prize: A Theology of Addiction by Donavan Riley: https://shop.1517.org/products/9781962654708-the-impossible-prize Ditching the Checklist by Mark Mattes: https://shop.1517.org/products/9781962654791-ditching-the-checklist Broken Bonds: A Novel of the Reformation, Book 1 of 2 by Amy Mantravadi: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1962654753?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_FCNEEK60MVNVPCEGKBD8_5&starsLeft=1    More from the hosts: Donovan Riley https://www.1517.org/contributors/donavon-riley  Christopher Gillespie https://www.1517.org/contributors/christopher-gillespie   MORE LINKS: Tin Foil Haloes https://t.me/bannedpastors Warrior Priest Gym & Podcast https://thewarriorpriestpodcast.wordpress.com   St John's Lutheran Church (Webster, MN) - FB Live Bible Study Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/356667039608511  Donavon's Substack https://donavonlriley.substack.com Gillespie's Substack https://substack.com/@christophergillespie  Gillespie's Sermons and Catechesis http://youtube.com/stjohnrandomlake  Gillespie Coffee https://gillespie.coffee   Gillespie Media https://gillespie.media     CONTACT and FOLLOW: Email mailto:BannedBooks@1517.org  Facebook https://www.facebook.com/BannedBooksPod/  Twitter https://twitter.com/bannedbooks1517   SUBSCRIBE: YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@BannedBooks Rumble https://rumble.com/c/c-1223313  Odysee https://odysee.com/@bannedbooks:5 Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/banned-books/id1370993639  Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/2ahA20sZMpBxg9vgiRVQba  Overcast https://overcast.fm/itunes1370993639/banned-books 

Chad Williams joins Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar to discuss how to protect children in an increasingly wicked world. The conversation begins with Chad's powerful testimony. Though Chad completed Navy SEAL training, he was struck with a deep emptiness. Becoming a SEAL had been his life's goal, but achieving it left him hollow. He realized no earthly accomplishment could satisfy the soul. It was through confrontation with Scripture that he began to understand the depth of human pride and sin. Only Christ can take away sin and cover His people with grace and mercy.Chad shares how, from the moment of his salvation, he was a changed man. He immediately began proclaiming the gospel and eventually crossed paths with Ray, who encouraged him to try open air preaching. That initial step was difficult, but it launched Chad into a bold and public faith. The guys talk about a clip of Chad engaging a skeptic with clarity and conviction. Mark recalls a humorous but intense moment when someone tried to steal Chad's ID during a preaching event—only for Chad to chase the man down and recover it. Chad's faith would soon lead him into another kind of battlefield: local politics.Now a city councilman in Huntington Beach, Chad stepped into office after seeing how far the culture had shifted. Once elected, Chad focused on defending the defenseless, particularly children. He and the council took action after discovering sexually explicit books in the children's section of the library. In response, they made plans to form a review board made up of community members to flag and relocate inappropriate materials; however, this initiative sparked backlash, with critics labeling it censorship and a book ban. One deeply disturbing organization sued the council over the committee's formation.This legal battle has reached a critical point. On June 10, there will be a vote on whether to preserve or dissolve the committee. The opposition is determined to shut down any effort that brings community accountability to public content. The guys along with Chad emphasize that this is not just a local issue—it is a spiritual battle with eternal stakes. If parents are not discipling their children, the world will. He reminds believers that discipleship is lived out daily. If sin isn't named, it will be renamed and rebranded as progress. He urges listeners to pray, support, vote, give, and reach out to those in Huntington Beach. The time to act is now. Children are watching, and their future depends on how boldly this generation stands.Send us a textThanks for listening! If you've been helped by this podcast, we'd be grateful if you'd consider subscribing, sharing, and leaving us a comment and 5-star rating! Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!You can find helpful counseling resources at biblicalcounseling.com.Check out The Evidence Study Bible and the Basic Training Course.You can connect with us at podcast@livingwaters.com. We're thankful for your input!Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.Ray ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro

Matthew 15 shows us that Christ Makes Us Clean, Not Tradition. Pastor Daniel Samms walks us through how the traditions of the Pharisees became an encumbrance as they acted without faith. Only Christ can make us clean by faith.

Send us a textA growing corner of the Woke Right is trying to make “tyranny” sound virtuous—ignoring connotations of the word to argue that an “absolute ruler” is actually a good thing. But this revisionist spin doesn't just break language... it breaks theology. I'll explain why.Here's the truth: Only Christ rules absolutely—no human authority can ever claim thatThe original definition of “tyranny” doesn't save it from being unbiblicalThis language game is coordinated, calculated, and deeply misleadingChristians need to stop flirting with political idolatry disguised as orthodoxyIf you care about biblical clarity, the lordship of Christ, and resisting counterfeit kingdoms—this one's for you.Support the showSupport the Show! https://www.patreon.com/sparenoarrowsCheck out the video Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@sparenoarrowsConnect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spare_no_arrows/Spare no Arrows on Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/6CqhvtMWRItkoiv8ZrJ6zVSpare no Arrows on Apple Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/spare-no-arrows/id1528869516

Tim and Jack welcome back Nick Graff, a former Marine Corps sergeant and special forces member, to discuss the aftermath of Seminex and its implications for the modern Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod.• The aftermath of Seminex resulted in a more confessionally unified LCMS while also creating a spirit of disunity• Contemporary debates about worship styles often conflate adiaphora (non-essential matters) with doctrine• "Liturgical pietism" can potentially make the liturgy, rather than Christ, the focus of worship• Political identities increasingly supersede baptismal identities in church conflicts• American politics have become more tribal, affecting how Christians relate to one another• "Backdoor ecumenicism" allows non-Lutheran theological concepts to enter through political associations• The church tends to focus on power struggles rather than creating hospitable spaces for sinners• "Sinners belong in church" remains a foundational Lutheran principle• Only Christ—not human efforts to enforce conformity—can bring order to a fallen worldSupport the showJoin the Lead Time Newsletter! (Weekly Updates and Upcoming Episodes)https://www.uniteleadership.org/lead-time-podcast#newsletterVisit uniteleadership.org

When we have a clear conscience, we can walk with God moment by moment in joyful gratitude. How can we remain in that joy each day? In this message from 1 John 1, Pastor Lutzer notes three steps to overcome the barriers to our fellowship with God. Only Christ can deliver us from sin and give us true joy. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/172/29

When we have a clear conscience, we can walk with God moment by moment in joyful gratitude. How can we remain in that joy each day? In this message from 1 John 1, Pastor Lutzer notes three steps to overcome the barriers to our fellowship with God. Only Christ can deliver us from sin and give us true joy. This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://rtwoffer.com or call us at 1-888-218-9337. 

(2 Timothy 3:13-17) In an age of deception God's people must know what they believe - and why! We must be ready to share with others, not what we think, but what God thinks. It is time to know and make known what the Bible says. (0938250211/13) ----more---- The Purpose and Profit of the Bible Everywhere I go, it seems that the favorite verse of people today seems to be 2 Timothy 3 and verse number 13, where the Bible says, "But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived." I hear everybody quoting that verse and talking about how bad things have gotten and the pitiful condition of churches and communities and culture, and there's no doubt that's true. But I want to remind you that verse does not stand alone. That text has a context. As a matter of fact, immediately after the Apostle Paul writes to Timothy, those words, "Evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived," he says in the very next verse, 2 Timothy 3:14, "But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned, and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them." In other words, yes, there are negatives all around us, but on the positive side, we're supposed to continue in the truth. Yes, this is an age of deception, all the more reason for us to take a strong stand on the truth. Yes, there is a spirit of Antichrist at work in our world that's trying to deceive people. But friends, just because the spirit of the deceiver is at work does not mean that the Holy Spirit has stopped his work. Oh, the spirit of truth is alive and well. He's at work in me today. He's at work in you today. He's at work through the Word today. And that's why God's people need to know what the Bible says. Listen to the verse again, 2 Timothy chapter 3 verse 14, "But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned. And has been assured of knowing of whom thou hast learned them. " Learning the Bible The three great principles, the three great truths in that verse. Number one, you have to learn the word. He said, if you're going to live it, if you're going to teach it and preach it to others, you have to learn it. So we must learn what God says. Assurance of the Bible Then, you must develop some assurance about what you're learning. He not only says you've learned it, he said you've been assured of these things. You must develop some deep personal conviction that the Word of God truly is that, the Word of God. It is the revelation of God Himself. It is the truth. And I trust and pray that you're developing a deeper and deeper conviction and confidence in the Word of God. This is the very Word of Truth. And you can trust a God who never lies. As a matter of fact, he says at the end of the verse, "Knowing of whom thou hast learned them." What's that a reference to? He goes on in verse 15 to say, "And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus." He's saying that faith that was laid for you in childhood. That simple truth that you were willing to accept in your youth, don't ever get away from that. No matter how complicated the world may get, no matter how complex the problems may be, always go back again and again to the simplicity that is in Jesus Christ. Only Christ, only the Word of Truth can cut through the mess and the mayhem of our world and of our lives. Only the Lord can do that. So never forget. Where you learned it and who you learned it from. Timothy had a godly mother and a holy grandmother. Do you remember Lois and Eunice? Never forget those people who gave you this heritage. Never forget the people who taught you the truth. Perhaps there's some hint here as well of Paul reminding Timothy of what he personally had taught him in his youth. You remember how Timothy joined Paul when he was just a very young man. Paul is saying, don't ever forget the things that you were taught early on in your life. Don't ever get moved off the foundation of your faith. So number one, you must learn what the Bible says. Then you must be assured of what the Bible says. Continue in the Bible And then, you must continue in what the Bible says, but continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and has been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them. Look, we're living in a world of quitters. Even when it comes to faith, even when it comes to ministry, even when it comes to, to so called Christians, we're living in a world of people that just are giving up on the Lord, giving up on the truth, giving up on the church. Don't be one of those people. You be one of those people that continue. I want to cross the finish line of glory. Not coasting in heaven, but with a pedal to the metal. I want to finish strong. I want to finish well. Is that what you want for your life? And you're going to have to make up your mind today that you're going to continue in what the Bible says. The Sufficiency of Scripture At the end of this very same chapter, he goes on to say these words, 2 Timothy 3 verse 16, "All scripture is given by inspiration of God and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works." In other words, we believe in the sufficiency of Scripture. It is enough. God has not told you everything He knows, but He's told you everything you need to know. We have all things that pertain to life and godliness. In the Word of God, God gives you all the truth you need to live a victorious life. The Bible says here that Scripture makes us wise unto salvation. That's where you have to begin, by knowing the Lord as your personal Savior. You can't understand the Word of God if you don't know the God of the Word. So if you're not a believer, let's start here with the most basic thing, God loves you. Jesus Christ died for your sins. He was buried and rose from the dead. He wants to come live in your life and He wants you to live with Him eternally. He wants to give you today everlasting life. Would you put your faith in the Lord Jesus right now? Would you look to him in simple childlike faith and call on him and say, Lord, be merciful to me, a sinner. At first, you must be saved. But then, we don't end there. That's just the beginning. (Visit enjoyingthejourney.org/gospel to learn more.) The Purpose of the Bible after Salvation The Bible says once the scripture makes us wise in a salvation, then it goes on to profit us in these ways: doctrine, reproof, correction, and instruction. Now, notice the divine order here. Doctrine is the foundation. It's what we believe. That's what the word doctrine means. Our beliefs. So you've got to start with what you believe. Honestly, what you believe is going to affect how you behave. We might say it this way, your doctrine affects your deportment. Your life grows out of what you truly believe in your heart. So he begins with doctrine. Then he says, for reproof, That's to show us where we're wrong. Then he says for correction, that's to show us how to get right. Then he says for instruction in righteousness, that's telling us how to stay right. But notice, before he deals with the practicality of our individual life, before he deals with us personally. And the way we live every day, he begins with doctrine. That's why we're beginning this brand new series on what the Bible says. Why? Because only by learning what the Bible says can we learn truly what God wants. When you come to study the Bible, you shouldn't come to, to learn things. Some people study the Bible almost like they're getting ready for Bible trivia, and that's very dangerous because you can know things without knowing God. In fact, the Apostle Paul said, knowledge puffeth up. You can get full of knowledge and just be full of yourself instead of full of God. A Personal Prayer for Understanding the Bible When we approach the Scriptures, we must come to the Word of God saying, Lord, reveal yourself to me. Lord, I want to know you. And if you'll come with that spirit, that hunger, that thirst, that heart, then God will begin to reveal his truth to you. And you must begin by knowing what the Bible says with doctrine. It's really not so much about formula as it is about desire. Do you hunger and thirst after righteousness? Jesus says you'll be filled. David said, As the heart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God. Moses said, Show me now thy way that I may know thee. I want to challenge you today to begin this study of what the Bible says with a simple prayer. A personal prayer from your heart. Dear Lord, show me yourself. Dear Lord, help me know God better. Help me to know the God of truth so that I'll have the foundation to become the person that God saved me to be. This is the only way to truly understand what the Bible says. Repeating what other people have said about the Bible is not enough. We must know the biblical reason behind what we believe.  Outro We hope you will visit us at etj.bible to access our library of Bible teaching resources, including book by book studies of Scripture. You'll also find studies to watch, listen to, or read. We are so grateful for those who pray for us, who share the Biblical content, and for those who invest to help us advance this ministry worldwide. Again, thank you for listening, and we hope you'll join us next time on Enjoying the Journey.

(2 Timothy 3:13-17) In an age of deception God's people must know what they believe - and why! We must be ready to share with others, not what we think, but what God thinks. It is time to know and make known what the Bible says. (0938250211) ----more----   The Purpose and Profit of the Bible Everywhere I go, it seems that the favorite verse of people today seems to be 2 Timothy 3 and verse number 13, where the Bible says, "But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived." I hear everybody quoting that verse and talking about how bad things have gotten and the pitiful condition of churches and communities and culture, and there's no doubt that's true. But I want to remind you that verse does not stand alone. That text has a context. As a matter of fact, immediately after the Apostle Paul writes to Timothy, those words, "Evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived," he says in the very next verse, 2 Timothy 3:14, "But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned, and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them." In other words, yes, there are negatives all around us, but on the positive side, we're supposed to continue in the truth. Yes, this is an age of deception, all the more reason for us to take a strong stand on the truth. Yes, there is a spirit of Antichrist at work in our world that's trying to deceive people. But friends, just because the spirit of the deceiver is at work does not mean that the Holy Spirit has stopped his work. Oh, the spirit of truth is alive and well. He's at work in me today. He's at work in you today. He's at work through the Word today. And that's why God's people need to know what the Bible says. Listen to the verse again, 2 Timothy chapter 3 verse 14, "But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned. And has been assured of knowing of whom thou hast learned them. " Learning the Bible The three great principles, the three great truths in that verse. Number one, you have to learn the word. He said, if you're going to live it, if you're going to teach it and preach it to others, you have to learn it. So we must learn what God says. Assurance of the Bible Then, you must develop some assurance about what you're learning. He not only says you've learned it, he said you've been assured of these things. You must develop some deep personal conviction that the Word of God truly is that, the Word of God. It is the revelation of God Himself. It is the truth. And I trust and pray that you're developing a deeper and deeper conviction and confidence in the Word of God. This is the very Word of Truth. And you can trust a God who never lies. As a matter of fact, he says at the end of the verse, "Knowing of whom thou hast learned them." What's that a reference to? He goes on in verse 15 to say, "And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus." He's saying that faith that was laid for you in childhood. That simple truth that you were willing to accept in your youth, don't ever get away from that. No matter how complicated the world may get, no matter how complex the problems may be, always go back again and again to the simplicity that is in Jesus Christ. Only Christ, only the Word of Truth can cut through the mess and the mayhem of our world and of our lives. Only the Lord can do that. So never forget. Where you learned it and who you learned it from. Timothy had a godly mother and a holy grandmother. Do you remember Lois and Eunice? Never forget those people who gave you this heritage. Never forget the people who taught you the truth. Perhaps there's some hint here as well of Paul reminding Timothy of what he personally had taught him in his youth. You remember how Timothy joined Paul when he was just a very young man. Paul is saying, don't ever forget the things that you were taught early on in your life. Don't ever get moved off the foundation of your faith. So number one, you must learn what the Bible says. Then you must be assured of what the Bible says. Continue in the Bible And then, you must continue in what the Bible says, but continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and has been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them. Look, we're living in a world of quitters. Even when it comes to faith, even when it comes to ministry, even when it comes to, to so called Christians, we're living in a world of people that just are giving up on the Lord, giving up on the truth, giving up on the church. Don't be one of those people. You be one of those people that continue. I want to cross the finish line of glory. Not coasting in heaven, but with a pedal to the metal. I want to finish strong. I want to finish well. Is that what you want for your life? And you're going to have to make up your mind today that you're going to continue in what the Bible says. The Sufficiency of Scripture At the end of this very same chapter, he goes on to say these words, 2 Timothy 3 verse 16, "All scripture is given by inspiration of God and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works." In other words, we believe in the sufficiency of Scripture. It is enough. God has not told you everything He knows, but He's told you everything you need to know. We have all things that pertain to life and godliness. In the Word of God, God gives you all the truth you need to live a victorious life. The Bible says here that Scripture makes us wise unto salvation. That's where you have to begin, by knowing the Lord as your personal Savior. You can't understand the Word of God if you don't know the God of the Word. So if you're not a believer, let's start here with the most basic thing, God loves you. Jesus Christ died for your sins. He was buried and rose from the dead. He wants to come live in your life and He wants you to live with Him eternally. He wants to give you today everlasting life. Would you put your faith in the Lord Jesus right now? Would you look to him in simple childlike faith and call on him and say, Lord, be merciful to me, a sinner. At first, you must be saved. But then, we don't end there. That's just the beginning. (Visit enjoyingthejourney.org/gospel to learn more.) The Purpose of the Bible after Salvation The Bible says once the scripture makes us wise in a salvation, then it goes on to profit us in these ways: doctrine, reproof, correction, and instruction. Now, notice the divine order here. Doctrine is the foundation. It's what we believe. That's what the word doctrine means. Our beliefs. So you've got to start with what you believe. Honestly, what you believe is going to affect how you behave. We might say it this way, your doctrine affects your deportment. Your life grows out of what you truly believe in your heart. So he begins with doctrine. Then he says, for reproof, That's to show us where we're wrong. Then he says for correction, that's to show us how to get right. Then he says for instruction in righteousness, that's telling us how to stay right. But notice, before he deals with the practicality of our individual life, before he deals with us personally. And the way we live every day, he begins with doctrine. That's why we're beginning this brand new series on what the Bible says. Why? Because only by learning what the Bible says can we learn truly what God wants. When you come to study the Bible, you shouldn't come to, to learn things. Some people study the Bible almost like they're getting ready for Bible trivia, and that's very dangerous because you can know things without knowing God. In fact, the Apostle Paul said, knowledge puffeth up. You can get full of knowledge and just be full of yourself instead of full of God. A Personal Prayer for Understanding the Bible When we approach the Scriptures, we must come to the Word of God saying, Lord, reveal yourself to me. Lord, I want to know you. And if you'll come with that spirit, that hunger, that thirst, that heart, then God will begin to reveal his truth to you. And you must begin by knowing what the Bible says with doctrine. It's really not so much about formula as it is about desire. Do you hunger and thirst after righteousness? Jesus says you'll be filled. David said, As the heart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God. Moses said, Show me now thy way that I may know thee. I want to challenge you today to begin this study of what the Bible says with a simple prayer. A personal prayer from your heart. Dear Lord, show me yourself. Dear Lord, help me know God better. Help me to know the God of truth so that I'll have the foundation to become the person that God saved me to be. This is the only way to truly understand what the Bible says. Repeating what other people have said about the Bible is not enough. We must know the biblical reason behind what we believe.  Outro We hope you will visit us at etj.bible to access our library of Bible teaching resources, including book by book studies of Scripture. You'll also find studies to watch, listen to, or read. We are so grateful for those who pray for us, who share the Biblical content, and for those who invest to help us advance this ministry worldwide. Again, thank you for listening, and we hope you'll join us next time on Enjoying the Journey.

‘And it is one of King David's descendants, Jesus, who is God's promised Savior of Israel!' (Acts 13:23 NLT) The shadow of the cross lay over the beauty of the first Christmas night. It was there from the very beginning. That is why red is the color of Christmas. It isn't because Santa wears red or that we sometimes wrap our gifts in red. Red is the color of Christmas, because red is the color of the blood that Jesus shed for us on the cross. That is what Jesus came to do. He went voluntarily to the cross. Of course, He could have gotten out of it if He had chosen to, but Jesus laid down His life for us. Jesus did not come so that we could go to endless Christmas events. He did not come to teach everyone how to be good or to love their neighbors, although these are good things to do. To the point, Jesus came to die an agonizing death and to ransom us from an eternal death sentence. The story of Christmas doesn't begin with the words “once upon a time,” though it has all the majesty and the magic of the greatest fairy tale you've ever heard. It has shepherds, angels, wise men from the East, and a bright, shining star. But it's a real story pinpointed specifically in time. Luke begins the Christmas story by telling us who is in power and what was going on at that particular moment in history. Luke was a physician by trade, and he was a stickler for detail. Everything in the world was in place for the arrival of the Messiah. The Bible says, “But when the right time came, God sent his Son, born of a woman, subject to the law. God sent him to buy freedom for us who were slaves to the law, so that he could adopt us as his very own children” (Galatians 4:4–5 NLT). When Christmas arrives and the gifts are opened, some of us will be very excited, and some of us will be a little disappointed. That's because Christmas can't deliver on its promises. Only Christ can. What is Christmas at its best? At its best it is gathering with family and friends and perhaps enjoying a meal together. (And of course, worshipping together is one of the greatest things we could do on Christmas.) But these are glimpses of things to come. In many ways, Christmas is a promise. It's a glimpse of something greater. It's a promise that has not been fully kept because it's really not about Christmas; it's about Christ. That is what we're really longing for—not Christmas but Christ; not merriment, but the Messiah; not goodwill, but God himself. Put God first, not last. Don't work Him into your busy schedule. Rather, put Him first in all things. Jesus won't force His way into your life, but He would love to come and be a part of it. If you will seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness in everything you do, it will change everything about your life. — Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On Culture Friday, John Stonestreet considers the strengths and weaknesses of a presidential cabinet nomination, Collin Garbarino reviews three new films, and listener comments and corrections. Plus, the Friday morning newsSupport The World and Everything in It today at wng.org/donate.Additional support comes from Compelled Podcast. Teri Hrabovsky was shattered after an intruder broke into her home and assaulted her. Only Christ could heal. Episode 90 at CompelledPodcast.com.From Embrace Grace--equipping the church to love and encourage single and pregnant women by helping them realize they can have their dreams and their babies too. embracegrace.comAnd from Asbury University, in Wilmore, Ky. Asbury's Set Apart retreats promote a biblical worldview for students. Asbury.edu/setapart.

Female athletes stand up for women's sports, fentanyl deaths decline, and scientific analysis of the Shroud of Turin. Plus, Cal Thomas on government spending, a cargo hold full of hamsters, and the Thursday morning newsSupport The World and Everything in It today at wng.org/donate.Additional support comes from Asbury University, in Wilmore, Ky. Asbury's Set Apart retreats promote a biblical worldview for students. Asbury.edu/setapart.From Compelled Podcast. Teri Hrabovsky was shattered after an intruder broke into her home and assaulted her. Only Christ could heal. Episode 90 at CompelledPodcast.com.And from Embrace Grace--equipping the church to love and encourage single and pregnant women by helping them realize they can have their dreams and their babies too. embracegrace.com

On Washington Wednesday, FEMA in the hot seat and the drawbacks of presidential appointments; on World Tour, news from Nigeria, France, Hong Kong, and Columbia; and high school students dig into history. Plus, the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree, and Daniel Darling on Marco Rubio as the new secretary of state and the Wednesday morning newsSupport The World and Everything in It today at wng.org/donate.Additional support comes from Embrace Grace--equipping the church to love and encourage single and pregnant women by helping them realize they can have their dreams and their babies too. embracegrace.comFrom Asbury University, in Wilmore, Ky. Asbury's Set Apart retreats promote a biblical worldview for students. Asbury.edu/setapart.And from Compelled Podcast. Teri Hrabovsky was shattered after an intruder broke into her home and assaulted her. Only Christ could heal. Episode 90 at CompelledPodcast.com.

The Biden administration risks escalation with Ukraine and Russia, Trump gains young male voters, and a missionary pilot freed from prison. Plus, a transformation from hatred to love, a ring found after a half century, Nathan Finn on human flourishing, and the Tuesday morning newsSupport The World and Everything in It today at wng.org/donate.Additional support comes from Compelled Podcast. Teri Hrabovsky was shattered after an intruder broke into her home and assaulted her. Only Christ could heal. Episode 90 at CompelledPodcast.com.From Embrace Grace--equipping the church to love and encourage single and pregnant women by helping them realize they can have their dreams and their babies too. embracegrace.comAnd from Asbury University, in Wilmore, Ky. Asbury's Set Apart retreats promote a biblical worldview for students. Asbury.edu/setapart.

Legal Docket, weighing veteran medical claims and government whistleblowers; on Moneybeat, noting Trump's energy cabinet picks; and for WORLD History Book, a Cambridge pastor serving for 54 years. Plus, the Monday morning newsSupport The World and Everything in It today at wng.org/donate.Additional support comes from Asbury University, in Wilmore, Ky. Asbury's Set Apart retreats promote a biblical worldview for students. Asbury.edu/setapart.From Compelled Podcast. Teri Hrabovsky was shattered after an intruder broke into her home and assaulted her. Only Christ could heal. Episode 90 at CompelledPodcast.com.And from Embrace Grace--equipping the church to love and encourage single and pregnant women by helping them realize they can have their dreams and their babies too. embracegrace.com

We continue to report on the horrific school shooting in Winder, Georgia, as more details come out. We are once again reminded that the world is a fallen place and the light of Christ is the only thing that can save it. We see this everywhere and in everyone, even celebrities. Glenn Beck interviews Dennis Quaid, and the movie icon tells of his fruitless efforts to fill the void in his soul. Only Christ can fulfill us. Meanwhile, Democrats try to blame Republicans for the shooting. On a lighter note, NFL action returned last night, and Taylor Swift was in attendance to watch the Chiefs beat the Ravens. But did they get a little help from the officials? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We continue to report on the horrific school shooting in Winder, Georgia, as more details come out. We are once again reminded that the world is a fallen place and the light of Christ is the only thing that can save it. We see this everywhere and in everyone, even celebrities. Glenn Beck interviews Dennis Quaid, and the movie icon tells of his fruitless efforts to fill the void in his soul. Only Christ can fulfill us. Meanwhile, Democrats try to blame Republicans for the shooting. On a lighter note, NFL action returned last night, and Taylor Swift was in attendance to watch the Chiefs beat the Ravens. But did they get a little help from the officials? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices