Podcasts about pastor davis

Colorado pastor Chase Davis joins The Washington Stand’s Jared Bridges and host Casey Harper to talk pastoral duty and political engagement. When Colorado passed House Bill 251312—undermining parental rights and advancing a liberal agenda—Pastor Davis knew he couldn’t stay silent. He shares his journey into the political fight, the role of the fear of the Lord, and how pastors can wisely address politics from the pulpit and with their congregations.

Colorado pastor Chase Davis joins The Washington Stand's Jared Bridges and host Casey Harper to talk pastoral duty and political engagement. When Colorado passed House Bill 251312—undermining parental rights and advancing a liberal agenda—Pastor Davis knew he couldn't stay silent. He shares his journey into the political fight, the role of the fear of the Lord, and how pastors can wisely address politics from the pulpit and with their congregations. See also:State-Enforced Fatherlessness in Colorado. . . And Your State May Be Next [Chase Davis, Christ Over All

Colorado pastor Chase Davis joins The Washington Stand’s Jared Bridges and host Casey Harper to talk pastoral duty and political engagement. When Colorado passed House Bill 251312—undermining parental rights and advancing a liberal agenda—Pastor Davis knew he couldn’t stay silent. He shares his journey into the political fight, the role of the fear of the Lord, and how pastors can wisely address politics from the pulpit and with their congregations.

Abusing the abuser.. By R A Wallace. Listen to the ► Podcast at Steamy Stories. Chapter 6: Second Thoughts Wendy We talked for almost an hour and I found myself laughing at his lame jokes. Though he did a pretty good job at laughing at mine too. After we hung up I felt wonderful. He had laughed at my favorite lawyer joke: How many lawyers does it take to shingle a roof? He had made a few guesses, and when I gave him the punch line: It depends on how thin you slice them. He laughed, then continued to chuckle as we talked. I felt so good knowing I had entertained him. It was the most fun I'd had in a long time. “Well, you look like you're in a good mood, Clara grinned as I walked out into the living room and sat down. Who was that you were talking to?”“A guy I met at the park a while ago.” “How well do you know him? It sounded as if he has a good sense of humor to make you laugh like that.” The question jolted me and my mind tried to parse the question. How well did I know him? I didn't know him that well, I mean we… I had him… “Come on, it can't be that difficult to answer,” Clara chided with a smile. “I've seen him one time, he gave me his number, and I accidently dialed it instead of my mother's.” “And you talked with him for how long?” “I don't know, a while. He asked me out for coffee and I told him no.” “So, once things are settled with your husband are you going to call him again and see if he'll take you out?” “Really, I don't know, I haven't given it any thought.” Then I realized I hadn't deleted his contact information as I had planned to do. I didn't want to second guess myself as I had enjoyed talking with him– I decided to leave him in my contacts. “You know you could ask him out, you're not that old fashioned are you? I mean you could have him over to hang out.” “I suppose I could once I have my own apartment and my husband is history.” “You know I don't mind having you here.” “I know, thank you. But, I will have to move on with my life and getting my own apartment seems important in that respect.” Robb After ending my talk with Wendy I took a root beer out of the fridge and sat down with a bag of pretzels. I was surprised when the first call came, then disappointed it had been by mistake. She had been honest about it and… well… it was nice to hear her voice. I was engaged in reading when the second call came and after talking for a while it seemed as if she had taken my advice and sought a divorce. The longer we talked the more relaxed she seemed to be. Making her laugh was delightful as I could see her eyes sparkle while those sweet lips showed a white smile in my mind. The surprise was she had a wonderful sense of humor herself, and I found myself laughing more than I had in a long while. That was when I suggested we have coffee together. When she declined the air went out of the balloon in a whoosh. When she explained the reason I felt better, she was right of course, she was married. The situation was thankfully different than before and I couldn't help but feel good about it. We kind of ended our talk without really saying goodbye, it was as if she were leaving the door open. I hoped she was and this time my feelings were less than altruistic– I wanted to feel her body naked against mine again. Chapter 7: Caving In Wendy I was at work two days later having lunch with several of my coworkers and found my mind wandering. It was the second time in as many days Robb had come to mind– the sound of his laugh in particular. “Well, that was some smile,” Ruby said, bringing me out of my reveille, “I haven't seen you smile like that in weeks, it's nice to see.” The others nodded their agreement. I returned to my desk with a few minutes left before my lunch break was over. I took my phone out and sent a text message to Robb suggesting we meet in the park, then go for coffee if he wasn't busy. I pressed send, my heart beating a little faster. Sure, I was still married, but that didn't mean I couldn't meet a friend, did it? I was working on a document when my phone vibrated on my desktop. I picked it up hoping it was a response from Robb accepting my proposition. It was! So much for my ability to concentrate for the rest of the afternoon. Though a few minutes later there was another reason too– my husband had left a message with the receptionist saying he wanted to see me today. I didn't call him back, continuing to take my lawyer's advice. Damn, it seemed as if the day had turned into a mixed bag as my lawyer had called to tell me my husband's lawyer was trying to slow things down. Robb I was surprised when I saw the text from Wendy since she had said she was still married and it wasn't a good idea. I wondered now if she were having a problem of some kind. Our last phone call had been comfortable enough until the very end. I hesitated for a few minutes before responding, what did I have to lose? I was already involved with her and once she was divorced there was the chance of continuing our relationship in some fashion– besides, I wasn't seeing anyone else. I sent a ‘yes' and provided a time I would be there. I had to admit I was surprised she wanted to meet at the park, though maybe it was a way for her to deal with what had transpired there– a way of getting past it. Wendy I strolled out of the lobby to my car with a smile of anticipation, surprised at how much I was looking forward to seeing Robb again. It was a fifteen minute drive to the park from work and when I arrived I got out and stretched, enjoying the sunshine and fresh air. I elected to take the bench in the shade of a tree rather than the one in the distance where Robb and I had met first. I didn't need for him to remember the wretched woman he had found that day. I could have suggested another location, but I had to deal with my demons too. I was sitting watching as people walked, biked, and roller-bladed on the paved path not far away. I closed my eyes and took in the whisper of the leaves in the tree as a gentle breeze hit my skin. It was then I heard a voice and felt myself stiffen– it was my husband. I had no choice, I turned to face him. “You didn't make it easy for me to talk to you,” he said in a stern voice. “That's because I don't see a need for us to talk. What I saw was enough to tell me our trial separation hadn't worked; at least not for me. You had your chance and didn't use it. So, just leave me alone, I'm not changing my mind.” “Pastor Davis has agreed to meet with us. I've been praying for our marriage to work, and the Lord has told me I've been forgiven. But, he had to teach me a hard lesson. Wendy, I want you to come home, so we can start over. You're my wife and I want you to honor your commitment.” I just stared at him, honor my commitment to him! I guess it doesn't work in reverse. Maybe I should have prayed to the Lord harder, so he could make me understand, and be forgiving. “Wendy, I'll give you a few days to pray for us, for our marriage. I'm sure if you ask for guidance he will grant it to you.” I looked at him, trying to project calmness and confidence. “I'm not interested in prayer, Pastor Davis, or you. Tell your lawyer to move forward on the divorce, so we can both move on with our lives. That's all I want. I want this to be finished.” “I just want one thing from you right now, just share a kiss with me so you'll see there is still something between us, that the love given to us by the Lord remains.” Before I could protest he grabbed my arm and pulled me toward him. I resisted, trying to back away knowing I didn't want him touching me. I found the thought of a kiss revolting– my lips on his wasn't going to happen. I felt a hand come to my other arm and grasp it firmly, then saw him leaning toward me. “No! Let me go!” I shouted as he closed the distance. Robb I was walking into the park looking for Wendy and was certain I saw her sitting on a bench under a tree. Continuing on, I saw a man approach, stand for a moment, then sit down next to her. I was sure I was mistaken now, and turned my gaze to the other benches around the park. I didn't see a lone women sitting anywhere and was thinking she'd been held-up by traffic and hadn't arrived yet. I looked back to where I saw the man and woman sitting just as I heard a shout. I was close enough now I could tell it was Wendy– she was struggling with the man. I rushed up to the bench yelling. “Leave her alone, get the hell away from her.” I saw him stop, still holding her arms, to look at me,as I stopped a few feet away. He looked at me surprised. “This is my wife, get lost. We have things to talk about.” “It doesn't look to me like she wants to talk, or whatever it is you're trying to get out of her.” “I told you, get lost. We'll work this out.” “Okay, here's the way it's going to work. You let go of her, she tells me she wants to talk with you, and I leave. If you don't, I call 911 and get the cops here to sort things out. I don't leave until they get here. Your choice.” I watched as he slowly released her and turned to me with a glare. “This woman is mine, she is my wife, and she knows what it means. She had better understand I deserve another chance and I'm not giving up just because her lawyer talks to mine.” I watched as he turned to Wendy. “I want to talk with you right now, I'm tired of the run arounds. I won't do anything else other than talk.” I looked at Wendy and saw she wasn't happy. Then she nodded. Wendy I heard a voice and looked to where it came from and saw it was Robb. My husband released his grip on my arms and I moved to the far end of the bench. I knew my husband wouldn't be aggressive with Robb, I'd seen him back down too often. Still, I was happy to have Robb there as his grip on my arms had been painful. This was the second time he had tried to force himself upon me and I was more fearful than ever before of how he viewed me. I decided to talk with him now. Robb would be near and would come to my rescue if my husband tried to take me with him by force– a real possibility I felt now. I watched as Robb moved to a bench nearby and sat down as we looked at one another. “You know that guy?” my husband asked. “I've talked with him once, now what is it you want to talk about?” My stomach clenched at not having told the truth. “I want you to come home, meet with Pastor Davis, and agree to meet with some of the Christian women to learn more about how you should behave at home. I know you were raised in a different religion, but you need to practice what our church teaches. I want you to be ready to start a family, so it means getting off birth control– which you know is against what our church teaches.” I looked him straight in the eye. “Let me get straight to the point. I don't want to be married to you anymore, and I certainly don't want to have your children. If you bother me again I'll seek a restraining order against you. I don't want to do that, so if you agree to the divorce this whole thing will end and we can go our separate ways. I hope you understand I'm not coming back to you.” “You can't mean that, you can't. We have a lot invested in our marriage. No other man will know you the way I have known you.” I laughed. “I wasn't a virgin when I married you. You knew that, now you want to make sure after you there will never be another? You get a little bit stranger each time we talk. I can't help but wonder if you're not reading and talking to the wrong people in your church. I didn't sign up for your brand of religion and version of marriage, at least not the kind you represent now.” “If you seek the comfort of another man while we are married you'll be condemned to hell, you know that. Think about it, I'll give you three days to let me know and if I ever see you with that guy again he'll pay.” I knew my husband was a wuss, he always backed down when it looked as if another guy would touch him. “Well, make him start paying now. We're going to have coffee together, that's what friends do in the real world.” “So, you admit you were going to meet him here?” “Why should I lie about it? We have coffee and talk, that's more than I care to do with you. One thing I do know, if you mess with him he'll beat your ass. So, I suggest you get up and walk away and not use your mouth in a way that will get you into trouble– the cops may have to come to save you otherwise.” My husband glanced towards Robb, then back to me. “He'd better not touch you while you're married.” “He won't touch me unless I want him to, I can trust him. It's too bad I can't say the same thing about you anymore. Do you think it would make any difference to me now anyway?” “You wouldn't,” he glared. I smiled wickedly, got up from the park bench, and walked toward Robb without a word. I was finished talking, at least with him. It was time for coffee with someone I wanted to spend time with. Let the bastard think whatever he wanted. I would do what felt right for me for a change. No dating until after the divorce was final was what the lawyers touted–don't leave your home, you remain living there. Bullshit, there was legal and there was common sense. I'd removed myself from the pain living there caused me each and every day– the only mistake I had made was in not leaving sooner. I no longer felt connected to my faith. Not that it hadn't been building for a long time, but recent events had simply proven it was all so much hogwash. I could never accept everything from my own religious upbringing and my marriage had simply amplified what I had found difficult to believe. Pray, pray, and pray some more, the Lord will show you the way. I prayed with my fellow parishioners and the result didn't change what happened. That individual, or those people suffered, and when it didn't change for the better everyone said it was the Lord's will. Have faith, and we would go on to pray again for something else with the same, horrible, result. Not that the Moslems didn't do the same damn thing, they were as screwed up as the Jews I had concluded. Robb I watched as Wendy talked with her husband. He glanced over to me several times and when Wendy got up and started walking towards me he stood up, glared hard, then walked away. When Wendy was within a few steps I saw she seemed calm, not upset at all, as if it had been cathartic for her. “You okay?” “I'm fine. As you might have guessed I wasn't expecting him to be here. He stopped at my office and left a message he wanted to see me today. I didn't see him, or his car when I left the parking lot. I guess he must have followed me. Thank you for coming to my aid again. I'm afraid I'm more trouble than I'm worth.” “Wendy, don't put yourself down, there's no reason for it as far as I can tell. I don't know you well, but I want to have the chance to.” “You don't believe you'll go to hell for spending time with a married woman?” she asked half joking. “No. I don't believe in things like that as I'm not religious. I guess if I were I wouldn't have helped you in the way you wanted me to when we first met. Does that bother you?” I mean, that I'm not invested in some all-knowing deity?“ "No, in fact, right now I consider it plus. Would you mind if I pay for our coffees? I think I owe you at least that this time,” she offered. “Coffee, no sex?” I smiled with a mischievous look on my face as we started walking toward the coffee shop. “Would that be a deal breaker, the sex I mean?” she asked earnestly. “Not at all, I want you to know that what we did the first time isn't what I expected to happen this time. You wanted something to throw in his face when you saw him, but you didn't do it did you?” Wendy I was surprised that he would be so perceptive, but he was right. I decided not to use my tryst against him. Not that it didn't come to mind as I sat with my husband. I felt it would reflect more on me in a negative way than him. I also didn't need to provide him with ammunition to use against me if he wanted to contest the divorce. Even meeting Robb this time may have given him something if that was his intention. “No, but I didn't want to get you involved in this either.” “I'm a big boy, and frankly, I can be stubborn about some things.” We spent over two hours talking after getting coffee. I told him I was going to get my own apartment when I found something I liked. Then I would move the rest of my belongings from home before the divorce was final. I told him I hoped my husband was convinced after our little talk I wasn't coming back to him, and that I wouldn't have to be so careful about seeing him. We stood next to each other after throwing our paper cups into the trash bin and walked across the street to my parked car. I stood looking at him and felt his hand come to take mine and hold it. The thrill I felt warmed me, my heart beat as if I were a young girl again. Looking up at him I was sure my face flushed red– but it wore a smile. I so much wanted to kiss him for making me feel so grand. “Okay if I call you?” “Any time you want. Thank you for being here for me, good night.” Chapter 8: More Husband Problems Wendy I had to admit my husband was being far more aggressive than I had ever seen him before. I hadn't been able to understand his behavior over the past year. He had started to quote Scripture to me more than he had before. I had attempted to talk to him about it and he got defensive, telling me I should pray for guidance. At first, his time with Joanne had seemed innocent enough. I trusted him, I trusted her as far as that went. She was always educating me about my responsibilities as a wife, and after a while I thought they were tag-teaming me. I didn't expect him to be so persistent in trying to get me to counseling after having ignored me for so long. His behavior was erratic, but not dangerous until our last two encounters. It was like he couldn't accept I was rejecting him like he had rejected me. I hoped he would finally see the light and sign the papers to end our marriage. Despite my husband's appearance I was in a good mood after spending time with Robb. We had talked about our childhood, relating our most embarrassing moments. Laughing at what we'd done and now considered just plain stupid. It was liberating to be so honest with him. He didn't hold much back, he had a self-deprecating sense of humor that showed how confident he was in himself. That night I slipped into bed and felt perhaps something good would come out the day after all. I would call my lawyer tomorrow and tell him about my husband's statement I had three days to return home to him. He hadn't said it in a threatening way and I took it as applying more pressure to get me home where he would have more control over me. I knew what my lawyer was going to say– I should have stayed in the house. Robb I left Wendy and headed home thinking she had a lot on her plate and I didn't need to add to it. I stayed as positive as I could and really liked seeing her laugh– she had this cute dimple that appeared when she did. I pulled into my parking space, got out, and walked into my apartment to relax for the rest of the evening. I was sitting watching a program on TV when I remembered I had left my lunch containers in the front seat of the car. I got up knowing if I didn't wash them out they would be really funky by morning. I opened the door to my apartment and saw someone bending down near the rear of my car. I stepped out thinking one of my neighbors had dropped something and was picking it up. It didn't take but a few seconds for me to recognize the shirt the guy was wearing; it was Wendy's husband. I walked down the sidewalk and approached my car without saying anything, and he didn't see me. I got closer and it must have been the air escaping from the valve that masked my approach. Damn if he wasn't letting the air out of the tire. I glanced at the front tire and found it was already deflated, the wheel almost to the pavement. I walked up behind him and shoved his head hard against the side of the car with all my might. There was the hollow thunk of his skull on the side of the car and he slowly fell off to the side onto the asphalt with a loud groan. I stood and waited for him to recover though I really wanted to kick his face in with my foot. When he looked up his face was bloodied, his nose bleeding, a look of fear and confusion on his face. He got to his knees and held out his hands. “Get up and get out before I decide to kick your ass until you can't walk. I don't know what you think you're doing, or why, but if I see you again I'll finish the job.” He stood slowly, wiping the blood from his nose with a handkerchief, glaring, his hands trembling. “I don't want you seeing my wife.” “So, you think letting the air out of my tires tells me that? I would have guessed it was some bored kid who had done it as a prank. You're stupid and a coward, now get out of here before I change my mind.” I knew Wendy hadn't told him anything about how we met and what we did. I decided to bolster Wendy's position. “We had coffee, we talked, and I drove home. But, you already know that because you followed me here. My advice to you is to sign the divorce papers and get it over with because she told me it's over with you. Now, I understand why– you won't even let her have friends to talk to of her own choosing. You're pathetic when it comes right down to it.” I watched as he got into his car and drove off thinking I should have put more of a hurting on him. Now, I wished he had taken a swing at me so I could have wailed on him. I walked into my apartment, found my bicycle pump, walked back to my car, and proceeded to put air into both tires. Wendy didn't want me involved, but after today's events I was more than ever before. I also felt she was worth it. I didn't dwell on how she had come to marry him. I had come close to making the same kind of mistake myself and still felt the pain. I knew how much infidelity hurt and I hadn't been married for two years before finding out as she had. I was convinced after we talked today she was a wonderful person who wanted something better out of life just as I did. Wendy Clara and I had breakfast together and I told her about what had happened at the park. She sat silent for a while before speaking. “Are you going to call your lawyer today and tell him it's time to end this?” “Yes, I think so. My husband wants to apply pressure to make me change my mind, so I think its time I do the same thing. I'm going to threaten him with a restraining order if he comes near me again. No more being nice thinking he's going to be rational about this, he isn't going to be.” “Wendy, I want you to stay living here with me until this whole thing is over. It's safer for you and it saves both of us money, not to mention I like your company.” “Thank you, I'll stay. It won't hurt to save both of us money and frankly, I like your company too. You don't preach to me the way the women from the congregation did. After being away, I realize how self-righteous they are. Often, they meet someone for the first time and soon I hear them whispering: Are they good Christians? As if someone who isn't exactly like them shouldn't be bothered with.” “You know it's a good thing your friend Robb was there.” We talked for a while longer and I went to my room, laid out my clothes for work the next day, then got into bed. It was after nine and I was tired after all that had happened. I was impressed with Robb. He had stood up for me, then waited until I had finished talking with my husband. Afterward, he didn't question me about what happened, or what I said. None of the third degree crap I always got from my husband if I spoke with someone he didn't know well. Then one of the strangest notions I had ever had entered my mind. Notion? It was more of an urge, a need. I wanted to… did I dare admit it… I wanted to screw Robb. I wanted him to lay down on his back, put him in, and go until I made him go off. I mean I wanted to dominate him, hear him groan as I laid into him knowing he didn't control the situation. It was the most outrageous thing I'd ever thought of. The vision of myself on top of him the last time came into my mind. He had barely pushed up into me to keep me stimulated before I had sought my own pleasure by sliding over him, riding his hard member– changing my position to maximize my pleasure. Never in my life had I been so aggressive, ramming him into me hard at times, his face seemed locked in hard determined concentration. Always before I'd allowed my partner to control me, but not that time. Robb had let me have my way with him. The first time he had taken me the way I had asked him to… but the second time… the second time I… oh my god! I had, I really had screwed him. I woke the next morning feeling different, more… assertive, in control. During morning break I called my lawyer and told him to get my husband's lawyer on the phone and tell him I was done playing games. Get my husband to sign the papers, or get ready for a restraining order, and an assault charge. I told my lawyer the gloves had come off. If my husband wanted to fight, then he was going to get a fight. After I hung up I felt better than I had in over a year. Then, I sent a text to Robb, a grin crossing my face. Robb I was working on a schematic for a new project when my phone vibrated. It was ten minutes before my afternoon break, so I decided to wait to look until then. Wendy had come into my mind a few times, wondering how she had handled the events of the day before. I still hadn't made up my mind as to whether I should tell her about her husband letting the air out of my tires. My thinking this morning was she didn't need the stress it would produce. When I went to the breakroom to get a soda I sat down and saw the text message from her. I found myself warming at the thought of her smile. The message was short: “Park 6:30 for coffee. You pay.” I smiled to myself as I texted. “What do I get in return?” When I got her reply a few minutes later I laughed. “My smile.” “See you then,” I replied. That would be more than ample reward I thought; her beautiful eyes and smile filling my mind. Wendy I was so giddy after getting Robb's reply. I squirmed in my chair until the end of the day. I tried to remind myself again and again–it's only coffee, it's only coffee. I was trying hard to be rational about what had happened that night when I wasn't rational. I was in desperate need of both physical and emotional support and I was more than fortunate to have found it that night. Now, I wondered if I did it again if it would be the same. Maybe it was something I would never experience again. Pleasure born of the need of sexual gratification, of hate, and retribution– obviously a strange combination. I went home, had a light dinner with Clara, and afterward sat talking with her as I did my fingernails and brushed my hair. My hair was more relaxed than usual, not as curly. My hair always seemed to have a mind of its own, though to be honest, it did me justice even when completely wet. “Wendy, my boyfriend will be coming over to night. He's been gone for a few weeks, and well… you know.” “I understand. I'll be sure to be quiet when I get home, so I don't interrupt anything.” Clara, smiled. “Thanks, but I'll save the really heavy stuff for his apartment, he has a bigger bed and a larger shower. Wendy, it doesn't bother you does it? I mean, you're not… aaahh…” “No! Clara, no. There's no reason for you to change anything on my account. After my divorce is final I'll wait a while, they say not to jump into a rebound relationship right away. Trust me, I'll manage.” “What about your friend Robb? Is he a possible candidate? Or, is it purely platonic?” I stumbled for words, our relationship was… was… what? I didn't want anyone to know what I had done with Robb already. If it got out I would be… I didn't know… guilty, shameful, worthless, slutty? The problem was I didn't feel any of those things: not then, not now. What did that make me other than an adulteress? That was it wasn't it? I was an adulteress just as my husband was an adulterer. The thought we were equal in that respect came crashing in. Did it matter what my motivation had been? Is that what Robb thought of me? “He's nice looking, kind, and generous, a bit messy with his personal habits from what little I've seen. But, I guess I would say there's potential there. I mean I'm really looking forward to seeing him this evening. Frankly, I'm surprised as I thought I wouldn't be able to stand being near a man again for a while.” “Guys can be such pigs. I dated a guy for a while and found I simply couldn't put up with his leaving stuff lying all over. He wore shirts that looked like he had picked them up off the floor never having seen a closet. I wasn't even sure he bathed but once a week.” “I don't think Robb is that bad, he lives alone. I'm sure that makes a difference as he only has himself to please. After being married you recognize things about life you didn't before– what's important and what really isn't.” Robb I didn't eat much of a dinner as I watched the clock. I'd heard some pretty ugly things about what it was like to date a divorced woman. Obviously, I wondered to what extent Wendy would be affected afterward. I hoped I'd seen her through some of the worst of it already, but I really didn't know. If there was something I understood, it was infidelity, it had hurt a lot, and I wasn't even married. I'd experienced the pain, shame, lack of self-worth, and feeling like a failure. Now, all these months later, I'd come to the point I was willing to try again. But, with Wendy? I parked the car and walked into the park knowing where I would find her. As soon as I saw her my heart sped up, she looked fantastic. A smile came to my face with the anticipation of her smile. I was still twenty feet away when she saw me and a broad smile crossed her face. “Excuse me, I'm looking for a woman who's addicted to coffee and is willing to spend time with a weird man. Is there a chance you could point me in the right direction?” She stood up smiling, took a few steps toward me, and started to laugh. - to be continued.. By R A Wallace for Literotica

When success comes, what is happening in your heart? In this sermon, Pastor Jeff Davis unpacks the story of King Nebuchadnezzar and the danger of pride. This episode is a wake-up call to see life through God's eyes, not our own. Rooted in Daniel 4, Pastor Davis reminds us that every good gift comes from God, and pride can blind us to that truth. Listen to the episode to learn what it means to depend on God, look through HIs eyes, see His work, and give Him praise. Tune in and be encouraged to lift your eyes to heaven - and find your strength, success, and story in the One who gave it all. 

Join Pastor Joseph Davis for the powerful third installment of the "Be Bold, Be Brave, Be Strong" series, "Uncompromised Faith in a Diluted World." In this impactful message, Pastor Davis delves into the critical importance of living a life free from spiritual compromise, drawing profound parallels from key biblical narratives. In this episode, you will discover: The Power of Unadulterated Worship: Explore the story of the woman with the alabaster box (Mark 14), whose bold, uninvited act of worship defied religious norms and exposed the hypocrisy of those around her. Learn that true worship doesn't require perfect circumstances or external prompting, but flows from a surrendered heart using whatever it has left. Embracing the "Unleavened Bread" Lifestyle: Understand the significance of the Passover and the hasty, unleavened bread eaten by the Israelites during their rapid deliverance from Egypt. This "unleavened bread" symbolizes a swift, pure, and uncompromising separation from the ways of the world and a commitment to God's standards, regardless of societal pressures. Navigating Temptation and Flattery: Learn how the enemy uses flattery (as seen with Adam and Eve, and Jesus in the wilderness) to lead us into compromise. Pastor Davis emphasizes the need to know God's Word deeply ("It is written") as the ultimate defense against seduction. Standing Against Compromise in High Places: Reflect on the unwavering resolve of Daniel and his friends in Babylon, who refused to compromise their faith, even when offered positions of power and privilege. This segment challenges believers in all spheres of influence to maintain their integrity and refuse to bend to ungodly demands. The Dangers of Spiritual Dilution: Pastor Davis passionately warns against the church becoming "diluted," like bleach mixed with too much water. He calls for a purification, urging believers to move beyond superficial Christianity and embrace a lifestyle that genuinely preserves and impacts the world, rather than being tainted by it. This message is a stirring call to authenticity, challenging listeners to examine their own lives for areas of compromise and to cultivate an unyielding devotion to God's truth, standards, and purposes in a world that constantly pressures believers to conform. Scriptures for Further Study Mark 14:1-8 Daniel 11:32 (NIV) Ephesians 6:10 Matthew 7:21-23 Romans 11:29 John 14:6 Matthew 5:13 +++++++ Pastors Joseph and Robbin Davis Follow Us https://www.facebook.com/truthgatherers/ Ways to Give Cash App: $truthgatherers www.easytithe.com/TGDC Text to Give - Text the amount to (850) 898-9848

In "Be Bold, Be Brave, Be Strong - Part 2," Pastor Joseph Davis continues to unpack what it means to live a life of audacious faith, drawing profound lessons from the story of the woman who anointed Jesus with costly spikenard oil. He challenges listeners to navigate their "now season" – a time filled with distractions and legitimate concerns – by focusing on what truly matters. Pastor Davis highlights a common pitfall: only seeking Jesus for His blessings and prosperity (His "hand"), while neglecting His holiness, image, and likeness (His "face"). He asserts that true transformation comes from embracing all of Jesus, not just the parts we find comfortable or advantageous. The sermon powerfully illustrates the woman's boldness as she breaks her alabaster box, symbolizing the breaking of all perceived boundaries and protocols to release what is truly valuable within. This act, Pastor Davis explains, is about "getting what's in me out of me" and unleashing one's God-given anointing for purpose and destiny. He poses a crucial question for leaders and individuals alike: "Are you training people or are you taming people?" underscoring the need to cultivate a spirit that roars and fights for its destiny rather than being suppressed. The anointing, he stresses, is essential for navigating life's most challenging moments and for crucifying the flesh daily. The message also exposes the hypocrisy present even among religious figures, contrasting it with the woman's radical devotion. Pastor Davis passionately encourages transparency and honesty in our faith walk, urging listeners to admit hurt and acknowledge struggles rather than pretending everything is fine, as true healing and growth emerge from vulnerability. +++++++ Pastors Joseph and Robbin Davis Follow Us https://www.facebook.com/truthgatherers/ Ways to Give Cash App: $truthgatherers www.easytithe.com/TGDC Text to Give - Text the amount to (850) 898-9848

In this powerful message titled "Be Bold, Be Brave, Be Strong," Pastor Joseph Davis delves into Mark 14:1-9, using the story of a woman who anointed Jesus with precious spikenard to illustrate the essence of audacious faith. He contrasts her unreserved act of worship—breaking an expensive alabaster box—with the critical, self-serving motives of the religious leaders who sought to eliminate Jesus and found fault with her devotion. Pastor Davis challenges listeners to embrace a "break the box" mentality, where genuine, intentional worship and obedience to God take precedence over human opinions, comfort zones, and religious pretense. He exposes the dangers of "form of godliness" without true power, highlighting how religious zeal can lead to criticism and even persecution of those who authentically follow Jesus. The sermon underscores that true boldness in faith will inevitably attract opposition, but assures believers that Jesus himself serves as their defense. Ultimately, Pastor Davis calls for a prioritizing of God's presence, encouraging listeners to seek His approval above all else, and to operate with an "unction to function" that moves them beyond mere religious routine into a life of impactful, Spirit-led action. Scriptures for Further Study: Mark 14:1-9: The core passage detailing the anointing of Jesus by the woman. Exodus (specific chapters like 12-13): References the institution of Passover and Unleavened Bread. Matthew 5:10-12: Discusses persecution for righteousness' sake ("Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you..."). 1 John 4:20: "Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen." (Implied in the discussion about loving God but not others). 2 Timothy 3:5: "having a form of godliness but denying its power." Galatians 6:1: "Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted." (Referenced in the discussion about restoring others and not reveling in their fall). James 5:16: "Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed." (Referenced in the discussion about repentance vs. persecution). Luke 10:38-42 (Mary and Martha): Referenced for the principle of prioritizing God's presence. Matthew 25:21, 23: "Well done, good and faithful servant!" +++++++ Pastors Joseph and Robbin Davis Follow Us https://www.facebook.com/truthgatherers/ Ways to Give Cash App: $truthgatherers www.easytithe.com/TGDC Text to Give - Text the amount to (850) 898-9848

Today, Pastor Davis from New Community shared the benefits of Grace. /// Scripture: John 1 | Speaker: Pastor Joel Davis | Date Recorded: June 29th, 2025 | Running Time: 18:08

Dive into a profound exploration of masculine identity and purpose with Pastor Joseph Davis's "MonuMENtal Men Who Worship." This message redefines manhood, asserting that at the very core of man's creation lies the intrinsic calling to be a worship leader. Pastor Davis meticulously breaks down the divine blueprint for man in Genesis, presenting God's foundational "3 W's": Worship, Work, and Wholeness. He emphatically states that while work and companionship are vital, they must never supersede man's foundational call to worship, which is his direct, communicative relationship with God. Drawing compelling parallels from the biblical account of Gideon in Judges 6, Pastor Davis reveals how worship is the catalyst for spiritual transformation. He demonstrates that worship provides the avenue for forgiveness when we've strayed from God's covenant and brings forth prophecy, reminding us of God's original intentions and often revealing brand new information about our destiny. Through Gideon's struggle of threshing wheat in a winepress, the message powerfully illustrates that divine promises are often processed through difficult circumstances, where men learn to build personal altars and find boldness to overcome inadequacy and fear. Pastor Davis delivers a raw, honest challenge for men to contend for their place of worship, acknowledging the "stuff in the middle" – the unforeseen trials, generational curses, and internal battles – that God uses to refine and prepare them. This sermon is not just for men; it's a call for all believers to embrace worship as the ultimate weapon for breakthrough, deliverance, and walking fully into their God-given destiny, ensuring that nothing distracts from their primary call to honor Him. +++++++ Pastors Joseph and Robbin Davis Follow Us https://www.facebook.com/truthgatherers/ Ways to Give Cash App: $truthgatherers www.easytithe.com/TGDC Text to Give - Text the amount to (850) 898-9848

What happens when you feel forgotten, disqualified, or defined by your past brokenness? Is there hope for the days you feel you've lost and the moments you've missed? In this installment of his "52 Days of Favor" series, Pastor Joseph Davis delivers an uplifting message titled "Favor for Lost Days and Missed Moments." Drawing from the incredible story of King David and Mephibosheth in 2 Samuel 9, Pastor Davis illustrates how God's restorative favor actively seeks us out. He unpacks the journey of Mephibosheth—a forgotten royal descendant, lame and living in a place of obscurity called Lo-debar—who is suddenly summoned to the king's palace. Instead of judgment, he receives a full restoration of his inheritance and a permanent place of honor. Building on this narrative, Pastor Davis also connects this idea to "Favor for Warfare," reminding us from the story of Nehemiah that opposition doesn't mean our season is over, and "Favor for Life's Circumstances," showing how a prophetic word can change everything overnight. The central challenge of the message is this: The truest test of receiving a blessing is how you treat others afterward. David's first thought in his new season of kingship was to find someone to bless. Tune in to this inspiring sermon and be encouraged that God's favor can redeem your past and empower you to become a blessing to others. +++++++ Pastors Joseph and Robbin Davis Follow Us https://www.facebook.com/truthgatherers/ Ways to Give Cash App: $truthgatherers www.easytithe.com/TGDC Text to Give - Text the amount to (850) 898-9848

Why do many modern believers miss the power of Pentecost? In this fiery Pentecost Sunday message, Pastor Joseph Davis argues that we cannot fully receive "Holy Ghost Favor Now" without understanding its deep historical roots and its place on God's divine calendar. He explains that Pentecost is not an isolated New Testament event, but the culmination of a sacred journey that begins with Passover. This teaching unpacks the significance of God's ancient festivals, designed to keep His people spiritually in sync with His timing. You'll learn how the Israelites were encouraged to "count the days" between their deliverance at Passover and their empowerment at the Feast of Weeks (Pentecost), building anticipation for their promised Jubilee. Pastor Davis translates this powerful principle for today, declaring that despite your current struggles, pain, or opposition, you have an "appointed time" for recovery and reversal. This sermon is a powerful call to shake off the ashes of the past and step into the explosive favor that God has scheduled for your life. +++++++ Pastors Joseph and Robbin Davis Follow Us https://www.facebook.com/truthgatherers/ Ways to Give Cash App: $truthgatherers www.easytithe.com/TGDC Text to Give - Text the amount to (850) 898-9848

This Sunday, Pastor Davis preaches, "A Church at Rest in Leadership. We dive into 1 Peter 5:1-5 to see what the Lord has to teach us about elders.

This Sunday, Pastor Davis begins a new mini-series titled, "A Church at Rest". From Psalm 11, we learn that the Lord is neither neutral nor shaken by pot-stirrers (that is, people who cause unrest). Looking to Him, we can live likewise.

Chase Davis is the pastor of The Well Church in Boulder, Colorado, and he is a champion for Christian values in the public square. Pastor Davis joins Ryan to discuss the impending threat of Colorado HB 25-1312, which seeks to criminalize "misgendering" or "deadnaming" a trans-identified person in business, criminalize gender-specific dress codes, and empower the state to kidnap "trans" kids from Christian parents who don't affirm radical gender ideology.Learn more at standingforfreedom.com

This week, Pastor Davis preaches, "I Surrender All – How Faith Becomes Sight" from Mark 8:1-26.

This week, Pastor Davis preaches "Mission as Everyday Evangelism" from John 4:1-30.

Send us a textAs we enter into a new year, it is imperative that we focus on what is important in our lives. Listen as Pastor Davis teaches us about how our outlook on life should be as if we were in class and each trial that we face is a test for us to pass. Share this message with a friend and if you would like to partner with us in spreading the message of Jesus Christ to the world you can do so via any of the options below.Cashapp: https://cash.app/$HHMCPaypal: http://paypal.me/HigherHeightsMCSquarepay: https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fcheckout.square.site%2Fmerchant%2FSTTM56DVVNYM5%2Fcheckout%2FRS62FOBO2VTWPTAOTTP32RRM%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR29WROIC9CvvxdAjc1WKv5fLqDvFY3gLt5VBG0W41Hpfc_pDSWMXppYD98&h=AT3kxpjzOLmyFOmMEqEPvCkmUlom38WGZMyXxpsgOGXrNGMf-z9ZQE34tSfooE40yhaL1_LT0UfYkEqgdBGtAUZqjapoYBgJKLHyOmJlDAUHekOfnZwKY_RzKjxCVbXE29WoolMWwu8uTS3q6nQPTi20Wh8Mailing address 236 Parker Rd, Danville Va 24540 Support the show

Join us as Pastor Davis preaches from the book of Jeremiah explaining the importance of building and planting in our lives after we cut down and break down those groves and idols we have allowed in our lives.

#actlikemen #calvarybaptistchurch #spiritualdisciplines #podcast Josh speaks with Session 2 Speaker- Pastor John Davis of Amityville Community Church in the aftermath of his message at the Act Like Men Conference 2024. You can find Pastor Davis content on his YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@amityvillecommunitychurch6389 You can support the Godcast a few ways: (AFTER you have supported your local church!) Check out the NEW MERCH store! https://my-store-8061436.creator-spring.com/listing/godcast-podcast-stuff Support on Kofi: ko-fi.com/thegodcast https://www.paypal.me/godcastjoshfritz Find me on Venmo if you choose to support me there: The username is @thegodcastiwithjoshfritz Visit The Godcast: https://www.thegodcastwithjoshfritz.com

This week, we hear a sermon from Pastor Davis from Acts 2 titled, "The Extraordinary Power of Ordinary Mission."

Join us as Pastor Davis preaches one of the greatest men ever to live. A king in ancient times, Josiah becomes a shinning light on cutting down the groves of idols in our lives.

Pastor Davis challenges the church to examine our lives and to beware of compromise

Our Study of the Epistle to the Hebrews titled, It's Time to Grow Up! is back! Our friend Zach Davis, Pastor of Marked Tree Baptist Church takes the lead on this look into the first century church in transition from the Old Covenant to the New Covenant. After a long hiatus due to unforeseen circumstances in our podcast, we all are excited to listen in, study with, and discuss the insights that Pastor Davis brings to the Burros table. We hope you enjoy this study! If you'd like to see and hear more teaching from Pastor Zach Davis click on the link to his YouTube Channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@zachdavis3882If you'd like to become a patron of our podcast, please visit: www.patreon.com/theburrosofbereaIf you'd like to learn more about us, please visit our website at: www.burrosofberea.comGo check out our sponsor of this episode! www.carolinacases.netThanks for listening!

Imagine for a minute that you just won the most amazing sweepstakes ever. You saw this thing in a magazine, you submitted your entry online, and now these people are at your front door to tell you that you won and it's a big deal: You've been chosen for a two-week all-expense paid vacation to anywhere in the world you want to go: You get to stay in five-star hotels, eat at the best restaurants, drive extravagant cars; you get to pick out a whole new wardrobe of clothes that are tailored just for you, and you're given a three-million dollar gift card to spend anywhere you want.How's that sound?But here's the fine print: On each day of this vacation, every morning, you have to drink a potion that guarantees that you will feel discontent. It guarantees that although you get to do all of these things, with each thing you do you have an increasing, nagging dissatisfaction that makes you wish you were always doing something different. It's luxury galore for two weeks, but your inner-state is full-on discontentment — that's the ‘prize.' Do you still take it?This morning in Philippians 4 we're talking about Christian contentment. And when I use the word “contentment” I mean a state of happiness or satisfaction — that's what the word contentment means. And when I say Christian contentment, I mean that there's a Christian way to experience a state of everlasting happiness and satisfaction.That's the focus of Philippians 4, verses 11–13, and I believe there's something here in this passage that if we understand it and practice it, it will absolutely change our lives. This is one of those passages that grabs you by the shoulders and says: Hey, you've been thinking about this all wrong. There's another way to live that's deeper and richer.And so my prayer for us this morning is that God would give us ears to hear. In this passage, I think we discover three truths about Christian contentment and I want to show them to you, and before we get started, let's pray and ask God to help us. Father in heaven, by your Holy Spirit, would you humble our hearts now to receive what you have for us in your word. In this moment, by your grace, we open our lives to you and ask for you to accomplish your will, in Jesus's name, amen. Three truths about Christian contentment … here's the first …1) Christian contentment is a secret to be learned.Paul uses the word “secret” in verse 11, but first let me show you how we get there. Verses 11–13, which is our focus today, is really a detour from the main idea that Paul starts in verse 10. Verse 10 has to do with this church's financial support of Paul. Paul says, verse 10, “I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me.” So this church has partnered with Paul for the advance of the gospel. They've supported him and his work, and Paul rejoices in the Lord in view of that. He continues this thought in verse 10 in verse 14 — and that's what we're gonna look at next week — but before Paul gets to verse 14, he needs to clarify something.Paul's Clarification and DetourPaul rejoices in the Lord not because his needs have been met, but it's because he values the Philippians' friendship and partnership, and ultimately their partnership with Paul means that they will be blessed. Paul talks about that in verse 17. But the thing he wants to make clear in verse 11 is how he views this topic of needs. His needs being met is not the cause of his rejoicing. That's what he means when he says in verse 11: “Not that I am speaking of being need.” He wants this church to know that his needs are not his main concern, and the reason his needs are not his main concern is in the second half of verse 11: “for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content.” And then he goes on this detour. Now Paul is gonna talk about that. The second half of verse 11 is the big sentence in this passage. I'm gonna read it again because I wanna make sure everybody sees it. If you're a highlighter person, make this sentence glow. Everybody look at this, second half of verse 11:“for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content.”Then the next verse, verse 12, just explains that sentence. Paul says, This is what I mean — “I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance [which is another way to say “whatever situation”], I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need.”In all of these different scenarios, Paul has learned to be content, which he says here is learning a secret. Christian contentment is a secret to be learned.And I want to start with this idea of a secret because it implies two things … if Christian contentment is a secret to be learned then …1) Not every Christian has learned it yet. In other words, contentment is not part of the original equipment of conversion. Now there is a ton of amazing things that happen to us immediately when we trust in Jesus. When we put our faith in Jesus, right then and there … all our sins are forgiven; we are declared righteous; we are adopted into God's family; we are indwelled with the Holy Spirit; we are secured a home in heaven! — it's glorious what happens when you put your faith in Jesus! … but learning contentment is not part of that immediate package. This is something that comes later as part of Christian growth and maturity. You have to learn it. Which means: not all of us have learned it yet …Which means … hmm … let's think about this … how do we know if we've learned it or not? What might a Christian look like if they've not yet learned this secret of contentment?My guess is that they would be prone to worry — they would be right on the edge of anxiety with most things; they're quick to envision how badly things could go; which means they fret. Fretting is natural for them. And complaining is too. It's easy for them to find what's ‘off' with everything — winter's too cold and summer's too hot. The airline could always do better; the meal is always missing something. Nothing is ever exactly right, and nothing is ever quite enough. Every time they get home and they see an Amazon package at their front door, deep down they're thinking, “Maybe this is enough” — but it's not. There will be another package the next day, and then the next day and the next day. (That's what it means when you see all the delivery trucks on your street. It's just people looking for enough.) Christians who've not yet learned the secret of contentment are always looking for the next thing … the next post to see, the next app to download, the next doo-hickey to get — you gotta stay up on what's going on … so you're just always chasing.And I need to be clear about something here: when I say that not all of us have learned the secret, I'm including myself in that. This is probably true in every sermon, but I definitely feel that in this sermon that I'm preaching over my head. And the more I've thought about this, I'm not sure that any of us American Christians know the secret Paul is talking about here. I think most of us are all in the same boat here. This topic of Christian contentment is one we need help in. There's a country song you've probably not heard before, but I think it resonates. I heard this song years ago and it still haunts me. It goes like this:“We all want what we ain't got,Our favorite doors are always locked.On a higher hill with a taller top,We all want what we ain't got.We ain't happy where we are,There's greener grass in the neighbor's yard.A bigger house and a faster car,We ain't happy where we are.”We don't have much in common with John D. Rockefeller — he was one of the richest men in modern history and he was the first billionaire in America — but there's a famous story about him after he earned his first billion. A reporter asked him, “Mr. Rockefeller, how much is enough?” And he replied, “Just a little bit more.”We have that in common with him. That's how we tend to think too. Always chasing. We need to learn this secret.If Christian contentment is a secret to be learned, it implies (1) not every Christian has learned it yet; but also …2) It is possible to be learned.We're really on the brink of something here. And this is where I want us all to lean in and say, “Holy Spirit, teach me!” Paul is inviting us in on something, and not just Paul, but the topic of Christian contentment also has a special place within our own theological heritage. I think Christian contentment is the application of Christian hedonism. And going back 400 years ago, the 17th-century English Puritans cared a lot about contentment and they wrote master-class books on it. And more recently, my old pastor at First Baptist Church in Durham, North Carolina, Andy Davis, he has written a book called The Power of Christian Contentment. And in this book he just takes the Puritan cookie jar and brings it down to the bottom shelf. (I want to mention Pastor Davis because I got a lot from his book, which is like a commentary on Philippians 4.)We can learn the secret of contentment by together standing on the shoulders of others who have learned it. It's possible. Christian contentment is a secret to be learned — we've not all learned it yet, but it's possible!Here's the second truth …2) Christian contentment comes from Christ-sufficiency.Now before we're finished here, I want to give you a definition for Christian contentment, but we need to get there by focusing on Paul's language in verse 11. Look again at that big sentence again: “I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content.”A Fascinating WordThat word “content” (autarkēs) is pretty fascinating. It's not a word from the Old Testament, but it's actually a word from Greek philosophy. The word means literally “self-sufficiency.” And this self-sufficiency was a main teaching in an old philosophy known as Stoicism (we talked a little about Stoicism a couple of weeks ago in connection to verse 6). Stoicism was super popular in Paul's day, within the Greco-Roman world, and in verse 11, that exact word that Paul uses for “content” (or self-sufficiency), was used over and over again in the Stoic writings of this time. Apparently the Stoic philosopher Seneca loved this word. And it will make sense to you why.And in a nutshell, what Seneca and these Stoic writings taught was that “whatever happens to you in life, you accept it with no emotional reaction.” You get what you get and your virtue is your ability to be unaffected by the outside world.And that's basically how we use the word “stoic” today as an adjective. If somebody seems indifferent or apathetic or non-emotional, we say they're being stoic. Sometimes we wish our younger kids were a little more stoic at the dinner table … At our house, at dinner, we've got a little thing we say after we serve the kids their food. We say: You get what you get and don't have a fit. It's a no meltdowns rule.And that might make sense when it comes to kids and dinnertime, but Stoicism as a full-blown philosophy for life is dangerous because it says you don't have emotions because you don't have needs. You don't need anything from anybody because you've got all you need right here in yourself. You, in and of yourself, are untouchable by things outside of you. You are self-sufficient.That's the word that Paul uses — now, is that what Paul means?Not at all. Get this: Paul knows he can't do anything apart from Jesus. So, when Paul is using this word he's messin' with them! He's taking this word from Greek philosophy that means self-sufficiency and he uses it to explain his Christ-sufficiency. Track with me here:Not Funds, Freedom, or FoodWe know that Paul was not anti-emotion or anti-need. He's open about both of them and he talks about them in this letter! When it comes to emotion, remember Paul said in Chapter 2 that if Epaphroditus had died he would have had “sorrow upon sorrow” (2:27). He would be affected.And as for his needs, that's part of the whole reason he wrote this letter to begin with. This church is a ministry partner. Epaphroditus had brought him a gift from this church. They met his needs. But see Paul wants this church to know that his needs being met — which he's grateful for (he says that) — but his needs being met are not his ultimate aim. Paul has Christ-sufficiency, which means all he truly needs is Jesus … not funds or freedom or food. Those things are not ultimately necessary for him. But wait a minute? Wait a minute!Without those those things — without funds, freedom, food… air, water, and nutrients — without those things, Paul would die! So let's be honest here. Really, Paul?! You're talking about this Christ-sufficiency. You say all you need is Christ — but what about oxygen, Paul? You need oxygen!Do you?Well yeah, I guess you need oxygen to stay alive on this earth … but see this is where Paul has learned something …He's thought about this before because death has been a real possibility for him. He's been imprisoned before — he's had countless beatings, often near death. Five times he received at the hands of the Jews the forty lashes less one. Three times he was beaten by rods. Once he was stoned. Three times he was shipwrecked, a night and a day adrift at sea, floating on a piece of wood in the ocean; he had seen danger everywhere, through many sleepless nights, in hunger and thirst, often without food, in cold and exposure. So what if he didn't have oxygen? He would die. But what if he died?He's already addressed this — to die is to depart and be with Christ, and that is far better (1:23). See, death meant gain for him (1:21). Why? This is where we are getting to the key to this book, and to how the apostle Paul saw everything.All You Truly NeedPaul staying alive on this earth was not his goal. See, if staying alive here was what Paul was all about, then yes, he needs oxygen. And food and water and — yes, he needs other things besides Christ. If staying alive on earth is his objective. But if Paul's goal is everlasting joy in Christ, what does he need for that? All you need for everlasting joy in Christ is Christ! That's why Paul can say “Rejoice in the Lord always” — it's because all we need for joy in the Lord is the Lord.Look, there's not a creature or condition or situation on earth that Paul absolutely needs in order to be happy in Jesus. All he absolutely needs to be happy in Jesus is Jesus. That's the secret of Christian contentment. It is Christ-sufficiency!The secret of Christian contentment is learning that for what really matters — which is not staying alive here, but what really matters, your everlasting joy in Jesus — all you need for that is Jesus.That's the ‘rare jewel' behind everything Paul says in this letter. That's what Paul means when he says: “I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content.” Christ-sufficiency. What I really want is joy in Jesus, and what I need for joy in Jesus is Jesus, and I have him. This is the way church! This is the way to Christian contentment.But how do we apply this in the throes of life? We get there in the third truth …3) Christ-sufficiency comes through Christ strengthening me. Paul, it's amazing what you're saying here, but I need help, man! How does this work in the details of our everyday existence? What about when things are going crazy? Is it ever okay to be unhappy about something, or to experience negative emotions, or to wish things were different? Of course it's okay to feel those things, and this is where a definition comes in handy. Christian contentment is meant to be practiced. Remember verse 9: what we've learned and received and heard and seen in Paul, we're supposed to live that out. So when we think about Christian contentment in our daily lives, this is what it means. A Definition for EverydayHere's the definition:Christian contentment is a presence of heart that delights in Jesus's plans for us and humbly seeks him to direct us in them. What we most want is Jesus, but that's not always on the front of our minds in this world. Because we have all kinds of other stuff going on. One study I've seen says that the average person has over 70,000 thoughts a day — and I believe it. And let me just tell you, not all of those 70,000 thoughts are: “Jesus is my greatest treasure.”Sometimes those thoughts are: I wanna good parking space, I wanna eat lunch, I want to buy a house, I don't want my basement to flood, I don't want my child to be sick, I don't want my wife to die.70,000 things we think about — some are really important, and all of them connected to things we need, but see, Christian contentment is like an anchor in the midst of those 70,000 things, and when the details are not what we want, we come back to his sufficiency, and we say “Jesus, I have you, help me in this. You have a plan.” A presence of heart that delights in Jesus's plans for us and humbly seeks him to direct us in them.Jesus Who Is Strengthening MeAnd the more we learn the secret, the easier it becomes to get there: “Jesus, I have you, help me in this.” I can do all things through you who strengthens me — who is strengthening me. That's a present-active verb in verse 13. This is a continual, active strength coming to us from Jesus …Whether it's plenty or hunger, abundance or need, my favorite meal with my friends or hunger pains alone in a Roman prison, whether it's a home-run or a strike-out, I can do all things … I can get through anything … because Jesus is strengthening me. His sufficiency in my life comes from his strength. Everlasting joy in him is what we most want, it's him we have.So what if you had another offer. There's the two-weeks vacation sweepstakes offer, but then there's an alternative offer …And for this one, you're going to walk through a painful trial of suffering. You're going to be publicly humiliated; you're going to be thrown into prison; you will be deprived basic needs — you will be hungry and thirsty and extremely uncomfortable, but here's the catch: in the midst of the hardship you will experience a supernatural contentment through the nearness of Jesus that you can hardly imagine. He will be so real to you, so close to you, so sufficient for you, that you will look back at the hardship as one of the sweetest times in your life.Would you take this offer?Church, we're growing. We're getting there.It's true: we can do all things through him who is strengthening us.And that's what brings us to the Table.The TableMy guess is that if you're here this morning and you're not a Christian, this doesn't make any sense to you. That's okay. But I'd love to talk to you about it. The heart of the gospel is to have fellowship with God. That's why God created us, but our sin has broken that fellowship, and as hard as we might try to get back to God, we can't. That's why Jesus came. He came to die for our sins, in our place, so that through faith in him we can be forgiven and restored to fellowship with God. That can happen for you right now if you say to Jesus: I am done trusting in me, I trust in you. I would love to talk with you more about this. I'll be right up here after the service. Come up, let's talk.For those of us who have trusted in Jesus, we have fellowship with God and we're on a journey to eternal joy in God, and church, Jesus is enough for us. So let's come to this Table and worship him.

This week, Pastor Davis preaches, "From Foolish Hearts to Faithful Hearts." We are encouraged to not follow our hearts, but to follow the one who changes hearts.

Embark on an insightful exploration with us, Pastor Davis, Bishop Tim Beard, and Elder Yolanda Beard (Lady Y), as we unravel the profound dual nature of Christ in our new series, "The Man Jesus." This episode promises to transform your understanding of Jesus not only as a divine savior but as a beacon of humanity, whose life on earth offers guidance for navigating our own trials. If you would like to help support our Ministry and outreach in spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ to the world. We have listed some options below to give now.Cashapp: https://cash.app/$HHMCPaypal: http://paypal.me/HigherHeightsMCSquarepay: https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fcheckout.square.site%2Fmerchant%2FSTTM56DVVNYM5%2Fcheckout%2FRS62FOBO2VTWPTAOTTP32RRM%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR29WROIC9CvvxdAjc1WKv5fLqDvFY3gLt5VBG0W41Hpfc_pDSWMXppYD98&h=AT3kxpjzOLmyFOmMEqEPvCkmUlom38WGZMyXxpsgOGXrNGMf-z9ZQE34tSfooE40yhaL1_LT0UfYkEqgdBGtAUZqjapoYBgJKLHyOmJlDAUHekOfnZwKY_RzKjxCVbXE29WoolMWwu8uTS3q6nQPTi20Wh8Mailing address 236 Parker Rd, Danville Va 24540 Support the show

Our guest today is Pastor France Davis, a mighty force for God, Jesus and the church in Utah.   My introduction to Pastor France Davis of Calvary Baptist Church occurred very early in my time in Utah.  He is the embodiment of encouragement and hospitality.   Our discussion today is intended to help church leaders with thoughts from the perspective of a Black Pastoral Leader on Black History.  (February is Black History Month.)  Pastor Davis' resume is extensive.  I cover some in the podcast and pointed to here in the notes for his degrees.  Pastor Davis has degrees from Laney College (1971), Merritt College (1972), University of California (1972), Westminster College (1977), University of Utah (1978) and Northwest Nazarene (1994).   If this podcast resonates with you in any way, please share it with others.   Send thoughts to dennis @ mantuan . org -- copy that and delete the spaces (done to confound the bots harvesting email addresses).   

An oil change is something that our car requires! It's nothing wrong with the car, it just needs fresh oil. Listen as Pastor Davis relates this concept to our spiritual lives. He explains that we will go through many things in life, so it is imperative that we are anointed with fresh oil. Partner with us in spreading the message of Jesus Christ to the world, by giving to the Ministry. Your gift helps support outreach programs such as the podcast and many others.Cashapp: https://cash.app/$HHMCPaypal: http://paypal.me/HigherHeightsMCSquarepay: https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fcheckout.square.site%2Fmerchant%2FSTTM56DVVNYM5%2Fcheckout%2FRS62FOBO2VTWPTAOTTP32RRM%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR29WROIC9CvvxdAjc1WKv5fLqDvFY3gLt5VBG0W41Hpfc_pDSWMXppYD98&h=AT3kxpjzOLmyFOmMEqEPvCkmUlom38WGZMyXxpsgOGXrNGMf-z9ZQE34tSfooE40yhaL1_LT0UfYkEqgdBGtAUZqjapoYBgJKLHyOmJlDAUHekOfnZwKY_RzKjxCVbXE29WoolMWwu8uTS3q6nQPTi20Wh8Mailing address 236 Parker Rd, Danville Va 24540 Support the show

In this sermon, Pastor Davis teaches "How to Think about Israel" according to the Bible.

In this episode, I interview Pastor Chase Davis of The Well Church in Boulder, Colorado to discuss the challenges and blessings of ministering in an area hostile to the gospel. Pastor Davis discusses the challenges and blessings that come from ministering in such a context, and he offers his advice for other churches that have yet to experience the full weight of the current anti-Christian cultural climate on how to prepare for when that time comes. www.kuyperian.com

In this sermon, Pastor Davis shows us how Psalm 136 teaches us that we are to remember God with the people of God.

In this week's sermon, Pastor Davis preaches on "How to be Transformed in Times of Trouble". This is the message we see from Psalm 77.

Bloomdaddy welcomes Pastor Davis and Councilman Mike Polensek for the latest installment of Politics: LRC.

In this week's sermon, Pastor Davis preaches Psalm 34.

In this sermon, Pastor Davis shows us how Psalm 94 teaches that "The Lord Will Not Forsake His People".

Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 12:12-27As the small rowboat rocked with the gentle motion of the water, Andrew watched his father cast out his fishing line. "Dad," said Andrew, "I don't want to go to the new church tomorrow. All my friends are back at our old church. I know we had to move because of your job, but I'm going to miss Pastor Davis and my friends."Dad slowly reeled in his line a little and looked at his son. "I'm going to miss everybody too, but when we get settled in a new church, we'll make new friends. We still need to worship God and learn more about Him.""But can't we just have church by ourselves at home?" asked Andrew. "You could play your guitar and we could sing. Then you and Mom could teach us from the Bible.""Hold on a minute," said Dad. "I've got a bite." A minute later, he held up a small bluegill. "Looks like this one is too small to be of any use to us," he said. "What would happen if we just threw this fish in the boat and left it there?""It would die," said Andrew."Well, what if, instead of throwing it back, we take the fish to another lake and let it loose?" Dad asked. "Would it be able to live there?"Andrew thought a moment. "I think so, as long as we didn't leave it out of water too long.""Well," said Dad, "our family is a little like a fish that's been taken from one lake and put into another. We're in a new place, but we have everything we need to go on living--food, clothes, a home." He paused. "There's one more thing we need. We need to have fellowship with other Christians, and church is a good place to do that. If we don't go, we're a little like fish out of water.""We wouldn't die," Andrew pointed out."No," said Dad, "we wouldn't actually die, but we'd miss an environment where we can be fed and encouraged spiritually and where we can encourage others." Andrew was silent a few moments. "Okay, Dad," he said finally. He gave his dad a little grin. "This is one fish you've convinced." -Daniel A. BurnsHow About You?Have you felt out of place when you've had to change churches? If you're a Christian, you're really out of place--like a fish out of water--when you don't attend church. Meeting with other Christians is an important part of worshiping God and growing in our faith. When you have to move to a different church, it may take a little time before you feel at home there, but with God's help, you can make that transition.Today's Key Verse:We must not quit meeting together, as some are doing. No, we need to keep on encouraging each other. (ERV) (Hebrews 10:25)Today's Key Thought:Worship God with others

Bloomdaddy blasts Jose Ramirez being called out on strikes for a pitch clock violation against the Tigers earlier in the day in Detroit. It's also Politics: left, Right, Center with Pastor Davis and Mike Polensek

Tony was murdered, died for 30 minutes, and survives to share his miraculous testimony! Randomly targeted by an LA gang for an initiation (2003), he was shot 5 times and left to die in the streets of Los Angeles. Miracles in this testimony include a heavenly experience, deliverance, divine healing, an angelic encounter, and a new calling.      In this episode Tony shares: Events around the shooting A moment of deliverance with a gunman An angelic being that comforted him as he was critically injured Experiencing something heavenly, the colors, the voice and message he heard Being back in his body after being pronounced dead  God encounters in the hospital and miraculous healing(s!) Going back to the scene of the shooting and a second angel encounter A new calling to teach about forgiveness and promote peace God's orchestration in writing a book and filming a movie and 2 upcoming film projects   Dr Tony Davis is a Gospel Recording Artist, Inspirational Speaker, Author, and Film Producer from the Southern California area. Pastor Davis was ordained and licensed as an Associate Pastor on April 2nd, 2011 through Saints Of Value World Ministries by Apostle Dr. Vicki Lee. His testimony has been shared on a long list of platforms to include TBN, The Dr. Oz Show, 700 Club, A&E Bio Channel, and Discovery Channel. Pastor Davis also hosts a global internet broadcasting show entitled Every Day Miracles on the Holy Spirit Broadcasting Network, and another broadcast entitled The Life Journey on Power Of Praise Network.  Dr Davis has recorded 5 CD Projects and has written a book entitled Heaven is Real, and he is the Executive Producer of a film about his life story entitled "I FORGIVE." He currently has two more movies that are in process entitled, "The Prodigal," and "Lillie C."     "Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." Ephesians 4:32   Tony's book: Heaven Is Real: A True Story https://www.amazon.com/Heaven-Real-Tony-Davis-ebook/dp/B0765MJKXW   Tony's first movie: I Forgive: http://iforgivethemovie.org/   Pastor Tony Davis Singing "My Everything" (this is beautiful) https://youtu.be/eJjr9_Mx1Uk   Tony's YouTube channel and contact: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SFzVMkFAE64 Website https://www.nationalincreasepeacefoundation.com/   Review trailer, rent or purchase film https://www.nationalincreasepeacefoundation.com/the-film     Foundation page with video about gang-violence:  https://www.nationalincreasepeacefoundation.com/stop-the-violence-with-tony-davis

In this sermon Pastor Davis looks at 1 Timothy 3:1-7, and 1 Peter 5:1-5 to explain the role of Elders in the church.

This short message/homily was delivered by Pastor Davis during a special family/child dedication Sunday on 8-7-22.

Repentance can be a frightening or intimidating word. In this series, Pastor Davis breaks down both its importance and its blessing.

This series by Pastor Davis is one of the most important he has ever preached. Listen and be reminded that repentance is not a dirty or scary word, in fact it is a gift from God!

Pastor Davis opens this next installment of our Good Roots Series with the importance of being a part of a local church and taking part in the Mission by taking and using the Keys of the Kingdom.

In this sermon on Mark 3:28-30, Pastor Davis explores Jesus' statement about the consequences of blasphemy against the Holy Spirit. - sermon TRANSCRIPT - Turn in your Bibles to Mark 3: 28-30. The timeless allegory of the Christian life, Pilgrim's Progress, depicts the journey of a man from being lost, living in the city of destruction, through faith in Jesus Christ, and then through many dangerous toils and snares, finally, to crossing the river of death to live forever in the celestial city — an allegory of the entire Christian life. The author, John Bunyan, wrote it to instruct Christians about many aspects of the Christian life. In the allegory, the main character, a man named Christian, early in his pilgrimage spends time in the home of a man named Interpreter. In that man's home, he sees many symbolic vignette scenes that teach him important lessons that he's going to need for his journey. Probably of all of the vignettes seen in Interpreter's house, the most sobering, even terrifying, that he was shown was a very dark room with a forlorn man locked in an iron cage. This man's in a desperate condition because he's convinced that he has sinned his way out of heaven and there is nothing he can do at this point to be saved. He has, in some way, committed the unpardonable sin. In the dialogue that happens, Christian asks him, "What are you?" The man says, "I was once a fair and flourishing Christian, both in my own eyes and in the eyes of others. I was convinced that I was going to the celestial city." Christian says to him, "That's good. What are you now?" The man answers, "I am now a man of despair. I am shut up in this iron cage. I cannot get out, oh, I cannot." Christian asked him, "How did you come into this condition?" The man answered, "I stopped being careful about watching over my soul. I gave free reign to my sin. I sinned against the light of the word and against the goodness of God. I have grieved the Holy Spirit, and He is gone. I have tempted the Devil, and he has come. I have provoked God to anger, and He has left me. I have so hardened my heart that I cannot turn." Christian then asked him, "Is there no hope, but that you must be kept in this iron cage of despair?" The man answered, "No, none at all." Christian said, "Why? The son of the blessed is very merciful." But the man wailed, "I have crucified him to myself all over again. I have despised his person. I have despised his holiness. I have considered his blood an unholy thing. I have shown contempt to the Spirit of mercy, therefore I have shut myself out of all the promises of God and there now remains to me nothing but threatenings, dreadful threatenings, fearful threatenings of certain judgment and fiery anger, which will devour me as an enemy." Christian asked, "For what did you bring yourself into this condition?" The man answered, "For the desires, pleasures and gains of this world in the enjoyment of which I promised myself much delight, but now every one of them bites me like a burning worm." Christian asked, "But can you not even now turn to God?" The man cried out, "God no longer invites me to come to Him. His word gives me no encouragement to believe. God Himself is the one who's shut me in this cage, and no one in the world can let me out. Oh, eternity, eternity. How shall I grapple with the misery that I must meet with an eternity?" This is one of the most sobering and terrifying portions of Pilgrim's Progress. It raises the question of the unpardonable sin. That is a topic that's raised for us in this text today that we're studying in Mark's Gospel, raised by a statement made to Jesus Christ to his enemies, a sin that can never be forgiven in this age or even out into eternity. Look at verse 29, "Whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will never be forgiven. He is guilty of an eternal sin." The question that's in front of us today is, first and foremost, is there an unforgivable sin? Now, in some measure, this is surprising to us considering the wideness of the mercy of God. Jesus himself in this very passage asserted the width of God's amazing mercy. Look at verse 28, "Truly I say to you all the sins and blasphemies of men will be forgiven them." It's an incredible statement. Jesus begins it with a solemn oath, sometimes translated, "I tell you the truth," or, "Truly I say to you." The Greek is “amen.” Jesus often used this word, frequently doubling it such as “amen, amen”, which is “truly, truly,” something like that. Though everything Jesus said is worthy of close attention, when Jesus says this kind of thing, we're to pay special attention to the thing that he's saying. Pay very close attention. He's asserting here in verse 28, the width and breadth and depth of God's commitment to forgive sinners. "Truly I say to you all the sins and blasphemies of men will be forgiven them." We know from other scriptures, Jesus came into the world to forgive sinners. In I Timothy 1:15, the Apostle Paul said, "Here's a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance. Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners of whom I am the worst." Many scriptures testify to the wideness of God's amazing grace and mercy. Psalm 103:10 says, "He does not treat us as our sin is deserved or repay us according to our iniquities." Two verses later in that same Psalm, it says, "As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us." Beautifully in Micah 7:18-19 it says, "Who is a God like you who pardons sin and forgives the transgression of the remnant of his inheritance? You do not stay angry forever but delight to show mercy. You will again have compassion on us. You will tread our sins under foot and hurl all our in inequities into the depths of the sea." The amazing track record of God's forgiveness stands for all time. Abraham's lying is forgiven, Moses' murder is forgiven, David's lust and adultery and blood guilt, all forgiven. Jonah's rebellion, his defiance in running the opposite direction from the will of God for his life, forgiven. Even it seems King Manasseh, the most wicked king of Judah, who sacrificed his own son and the lineage of David to the God Moloch, burning him in the fire, forgiven. It's incredible what God will forgive. Augustine, forgiven for his years of fornication, forgiven. Luther forgiven for his blasphemy where he said to his father, "Confess your love, God. I hate him,”, forgiven. John Newton, forgiven for his slave trading and for his dissolute drunken life and his blasphemy. All manner of sin and blasphemy will be forgiven. Heaven's going to be filled with repentant adulterers and fornicators and homosexuals and liars and thieves and murderers. “Amazing grace, how sweet the sound that saved a wretch like me.” Is There an Unforgivable Sin? We should all be staggered and amazed at the first part of Jesus' statement, that all manner of sins and blasphemies will be forgiven in men. We should not read that universally as though Jesus is speaking of universalism, that everyone will be forgiven. He’s not saying that, but what he's saying is there is no category of sin that cannot receive forgiveness. There is hope of forgiveness for all of those categories of sin. That's amazing, but once that you take that in, the amazement swings the other way. It seems very stunning, therefore, that there could be a sin that God would not forgive ever, but Jesus clearly asserts here there is such a sin, an unpardonable sin. Look at verse 29. "Whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will never be forgiven. He is guilty of an eternal sin." Matthew's parallel account expands it a little bit more. In Matthew 12:32, "Anyone who speaks a word against the son of man will be forgiven, but anyone who speaks against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven either in this age or in the age to come." I think no one in history has been as spoken against as Jesus Christ. I don't know how many times on planet earth in a single day his name is taken in vain. Somebody smashes their thumb with a hammer and out comes, "Jesus Christ," not as a prayer or worship, but just as a swear. It's a river of blasphemy gone toward Jesus Christ. Jesus said he's willing to forgive all that. It's incredible. But he said blasphemy against the Spirit is a sin that will never be forgiven even into eternity. In our text, Jesus says that person is guilty of an eternal sin. Human beings frequently overstate the level of their commitment to never forgive, never forget, so filled with rage over something that's happened. But then they later... things happen, they change their minds, and they give up on such a pledge. But God's not like that. If he says a sin will never be forgiven into eternity, it won't. It's more permanent than if it were engraved with a steel stylus on a slab of granite. It's never going to be forgiven. God's not going to later change his mind. The verdict is final. The answer to the first question must be, as we read the text, yes, there is such a sin as an unforgivable sin. What is the Unforgivable Sin? Second question: What is that unforgivable sin? The answer from the text is blasphemy against the Holy Spirit. Verse 29, "Whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will never be forgiven. He is guilty of an eternal sin." What is that, then? Blasphemy is verbal sin, it's something you say. Jesus makes it plain. In this case, the issue is it's something that flows from a heart state, a heart conviction up out of the mouth. The mouth reflects the condition of the heart. Listen to the words in Matthew 12: 31-37. "So I tell you every sin and blasphemy will be forgiven, men, but the blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven. Anyone who speaks a word against the Holy Spirit will be for forgiven, but anyone who speaks a word against the son of man will be forgiven, but anyone who speaks against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven, either in this age or the age to come. Make a tree good and its fruit will be good. Make a tree bad and its fruit will be bad, for a tree is recognized by its fruit. You brood of vipers, how can you, who are evil, say anything good? For out of the fullness of the heart, the mouth speaks. The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in him and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in him. But I tell you that men will have to give an account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken, for by your words, you'll be acquitted, and by your words, you'll be condemned." It's the full account tied to the same matter, the same issue, the same incident. "Blasphemy is verbal sin, it's something you say. Jesus makes it plain. In this case, the issue it's something that flows from a heart state, a heart conviction up out of the mouth. The mouth reflects the condition of the heart." Jesus said it because of the words spoken about his ministry by the Scribes, the teachers of the law who had come down from Jerusalem to evaluate what was going on with Jesus. You remember they came down, they're evaluating. They heard about him, they wanted to see it with their own eyes and render an authoritative evaluation about Jesus. This was their verdict, Mark 3:22, "He is possessed Beelzebub. By the prince of demons, he is driving out demons." Beelzebub is Satan, and so by the power of Satan, He's driving out demons. Jesus responds, "I tell you the truth. All the sins and blasphemies of men will be forgiven then, but whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will never be forgiven. He is guilty of an eternal sin." Then the clear explanation that Mark gives us in verse 30. "He said this because they were saying he has an evil Spirit." That's the reason why he said it. The central issue here are Jesus' miracles. The Scribes were asserting that Jesus was doing miracles, specifically, especially exorcisms, driving out demons by the power of Satan. Jesus had been doing a river of signs and wonders and amazing healings. The best summary I found is in Matthew's Gospel, in Matthew 4:24, where it says, "News about him has spread all over Syria and people brought to him all who are ill with various diseases, all who are ill with various diseases, those suffering severe pain, the demon possessed, the epileptics and the paralytics. And he healed them, all of them." By far the most spectacular healings were of demon possessed people. The demons would often make a big scene when they would come out. They would scream, they would cause the human being to foam at the mouth or writhe on the ground. It was spectacular and evil. It's obvious, as you're watching, that something very powerful is happening, and people were forming opinions about Him as these miracles were happening, the healings, but especially the exorcisms. After driving out a demon from a young man in the synagogue in Capernaum in Mark 1:27, "They're all so amazed, they asked each other, "What is this? A new teaching?" And with authority, he even gives orders to evil Spirits and they obey him." They're evaluating who is this man? How does he have this power? In the next chapter after the stilling of the storm [Mark 4:41], his disciples were terrified, and they were asking each other, "Who is this? Even the wind and the waves obey him." Mark 6, in his hometown with people who watched him growing up, "Where did this man get all these things? What's this wisdom that has been given to him that he even does miracles?" In Herod's court[Mark 6], King Herod heard about this, for Jesus name had become well known. Some were saying, “John the Baptist has been raised from the dead, that's why miraculous powers are at work in him.” Jesus himself will ask his own disciples this key question: “What about you? Who do you say I am?” As I said, last week, this is the most significant question, the most significant issue that they will ever face, or any of us will ever face. It's clear that his ministry is designed to move people to the point where they can confess his deity, to confess He is the Son of God. On what basis will they do that? Jesus makes, therefore, many varied, overt claims to deity. Not one or two, many of them. For example, He claimed the power to forgive sins, the whole lifetime of sins by the paralyzed man. He didn't know him, had never met him, but said to him, "Take heart, son. Your sins are forgiven." Just like that. His enemies put their finger on it and said, "Who can forgive sins but God alone?" Jesus claimed to be Lord of the Sabbath which is something only God would ever say. Later, in John's Gospel, He would say, "Before Abraham was born, I am." Any Jewish person knew very well what Jesus was claiming there, there's no doubt about it. He's claiming to be God. He’s making this incredible claim. On what basis should I believe that? On basis of the miracles, that's the answer. That's scripture's answer; on the basis of the miracles we will testify to the deity of Christ to the salvation of our souls. With the paralyzed man, He said in Mark 2 , "You may know that the son of man has authority on earth to forgives sins." Then He said to the paralyzed man,’Get up, take your mat and go home.’ And the man got up and walked out in full view of them all.” Here's the logic: Because I do this miracle, you will know I have the authority to forgive sins. Miracle equals authority to forgive sin, the salvation for us. Jesus also acknowledged that the signs and wonders were essential, they were necessary to our faith. Jesus said in John 4:48, "Unless you people see signs and wonders, you will never believe." Again, in John 5, Jesus was accused of blasphemy because He called God, his own Father, making himself equal with God. In John 5, He gives many of his credentials. He goes through John the Baptist’s testimony, other things, and then He said this, [John 5:36], "I have testimony weightier than that of John, for the very work Father has given me to do, which I am doing, testifies that the Father has sent me." What is the work? Miracles and teachings. In other words, the miracles give us proof that Jesus is equal to God. To his own disciples, the night before He was crucified, He said the same thing. John 14:11, "Believe me when I say that I am in the Father and the Father's in me," [that we're one] "or at least believe on the evidence of the miracles themselves." That's the clearest statement you're going to find. The miracles give us evidence to testify to the deity of Christ. Then, as we say almost every week, the culminating statement in John's Gospel, John 20:30-31, "Jesus did many other miraculous signs, which are not recorded in this book, but these are recorded that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and believing you may have life in his name." It's not just the words in general, it's the miracles. For our salvation, God ordained that Jesus would do all of these miracles, and the miracles are the basis of our faith in the deity of Christ to the salvation of our souls. The two central, essential miracles that you must believe to be saved are the incarnation and the resurrection. They're essential to our salvation. The incarnation, that Jesus was God in human body, and that the resurrection, that He was raised physically from the dead, are essential. Romans 10:9, "If you confess with your mouth Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved." Here's the key to this whole issue today. All of the miracles connected with Jesus are done by the power of the Holy Spirit, all of them. There are no exceptions. Some of you may be surprised. I hadn't really worked this through, but do you think there was a single miracle Jesus ever did apart from the will and command of his Father? Never. Then, was there any miracle Jesus ever did with his Father and left the Holy Spirit out? What do you think? No. It actually isn't that hard to get there, but the Bible teaches it. For example, the incarnation. It was the Holy Spirit and his unique power on Mary's body that enabled the incarnation to happen. Remember how she said, "How can this be? I'm a virgin." The angel answered in Luke 1:35, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you and the power of the most high will overshadow you, so the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God." The Holy Spirit is directly bringing about the incarnation. Then at the end, the resurrection also ascribed openly to the power of the Holy Spirit. In Romans 1:4, it speaks about Jesus, “Who as to his human nature was a descendant of David, the humanity of Jesus but was raised through the Spirit of Holiness and was declared with power to be the Son of God by his resurrection from the dead, Jesus Christ, our Lord.” You're not used to the phrase, Spirit of Holiness, more common name Holy Spirit. Through the Holy Spirit, Jesus was declared with power, proclaiming to the world to be the Son of God by his resurrection from the dead, the greatest miracle of Jesus' life. Both of them, both the beginning and the end, miracles worked by the power of the Holy Spirit, but all the other miracles in between also worked by the power of the Holy Spirit. Peter testified to Cornelius in Acts 10:38, “How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power and how He went around doing good and healing all who were under the power of the Devil because God was with Him.” Jesus is going around setting people free from the Devil by the power of the Holy Spirit, healing them, exorcizing demons by the power of the Spirit, rescuing them from Satan's dark clutches. Specifically, relevant to this issue, Jesus claimed overtly to be driving out demons by the power of the Spirit of God. He said in Mark 12:27, "If I drive out demons by Beelzebub by whom to your sons drive them out?" Very interesting question. How was that whole exorcism going before I came? "So then they will be your judges," [Matthew 12:28], "but if I drive out demons by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God has come upon you." It's clear evidence of the advancing kingdom of God, the work of the Holy Spirit. Now, here's the thing. The scribes looked at all this evidence, they looked right at it with their own eyes. They watched it happening, and what was their conclusion? It is by Satan's power that He is driving out demons. It could not have been further from the truth. The blasphemy against the Spirit, then, is to look at all the evidence that the Spirit has given for the deity of Christ, his signs and wonders, and then willfully and maliciously choosing to ascribe that power to Satan, that's the blasphemy against the Spirit. Jesus said it would be a sin that would never be forgiven, not in this age or the age of come. Now you may say, "Why not? Why not? Why wouldn't it be forgiven?" Because there was something else that God was going to do to prove the identity of His son. It's as though God, through the Holy Spirit, is turning over cards, revealing cards, and He reveals the whole set and steps back and says, "All right, here it is. What do you think? What's your conclusion?" At the end of Ecclesiastes, Ecclesiastes 12:13 says, "Now all has been heard. Here's the conclusion of the matter." This is the full set of the evidence God's going to give. What's your conclusion? The author of Hebrews says in Hebrews 10, "If we deliberately keep on sinning after we've receive the knowledge of the truth, no sacrifice for sins is left but only a fearful expectation of judgment and of raging fire that will consume the enemies of God." Could someone in space and time have committed this sin and then still live many years on earth without any hope of forgiveness, no chance of forgiveness whatsoever? The answer is yes, it seems so. I'm not saying they knew that that was their condition, but I'm saying it is possible to commit that blasphemy against the Holy Spirit and then live awhile after that, completely apart from the grace of God and any hope of forgiveness of sins. Jesus said in Matthew 12:32, "Anyone who speaks against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven either in this age or in the age to come." The dreadful and terrifying conclusion is that there were people who did commit the sin of blasphemy against the Holy Spirit and who then walked in unforgiveness for the rest of their lives. Why? It's because God would not work in them, because He's not going to send the Holy Spirit to save them. Essential to our salvation is repentance, repentance of our sins, and that repentance cannot be in any single person ever except by the working of the Holy Spirit of God. Essential to our salvation is repentance, repentance of our sins, and that repentance cannot be in any single person ever except by the working of the Holy Spirit of God. "The time has come," [Mark 1:15], "The kingdom of God is near. Repent and believe the gospel." That's done by the power of the Holy Spirit, not by your free will. Your free will was a slave. It was the Holy Spirit that set you free, if you're a Christian, so God will not work that. It says in Acts 11:18, "So then, God has granted, even to the Gentiles, repentance unto life." Do you see that? God grants repentance, God grants faith. These are gifts of God. And He works them by the Spirit, specifically repentance. It says in John 16:8, "When the Holy Spirit comes, he will convict the world of guilt in regard to sin and righteousness and judgment.” That's the Holy Spirit's unique and beautiful work. But if the person is ascribing all of Jesus' miracles to Satan, there is no further work the Spirit will do. They're willfully rejecting all the work of the Spirit point toward Christ as the Son of God. How Should We Live in Light of the Concept of the Unforgivable Sin? Third point: How should we live in light of this teaching, in light of the concept of the unforgivable sin? Can anyone commit this sin today? Answer: I don't really know. There are different commentators who say different things. "Pastor, you're not ever supposed to say, "I don't really know," especially not an important question like this one." It may be that this sin was unique to that moment, to literally seeing with your own eyes the physical miracles being done, seeing many of them, a river of miracles, and then concluding that Jesus was doing all of that by the power of Satan. However, we do read in the book of Hebrews about the apostates there, in Hebrews 6:4-6. He says, "It is impossible for those who have once been enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift, who have shared in the Holy Spirit, who have tasted the goodness of the word of God and the powers of the coming age, if they fall away, to be brought back against your repentance because, to their loss, they're crucifying the Son of God all over again and subjecting him to public disgrace." When I preach through the book of Hebrews, I had to ponder this very important teaching very carefully. Many people are deeply troubled by it, Hebrews 6. I struggled especially with the words, “it is impossible”. Taking all the words out and just simplifying, it is impossible to renew them again to repentance. It's impossible to bring them to repentance. I struggle with that, especially in light of a statement Jesus makes in another place in Mark's gospel, Mark 10:27, talking about the salvation of the rich. “It's easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle.” And they say, "Well, who then could be saved?" And Jesus said, "With man, this is impossible. But with God, all things are possible." When you get with God, all things are possible, connected to salvation, but then the author of Hebrews is saying it's impossible to bring the... I found that troubling. How do you put that together? But it does make sense, however, if God himself is telling you He will not work in those people, then we know it's impossible. With man, it's impossible. With God's working, all things are possible. But suppose God says, "Yes, but I'm not working in these cases. I'm not going to work." What do you think? Then they're not going to be saved. The Hebrew people of that era had also physically seen signs and wonders in the apostolic age. In Hebrews 2,3, and 4, it says, "This salvation, which was first announced by the Lord, was confirmed to us by those who heard him. God also testified to it by signs, wonders, and various miracles and gifts of the Holy Spirit, distributed according to his will." The apostles, after Jesus was sent to heaven, did similar miracles to Jesus. These people, this Hebrew congregation, had seen those apostolic miracles and were in that, therefore, possibility of the same condition concerning blasphemy against the Holy Spirit. Perhaps blasphemy against the Holy Spirit is limited to the era of Christ and the apostles when the miracles are flowing by the power of the Holy Spirit. But later in the book of Hebrews, it says, Hebrews 10:26-29, "If we deliberately keep on sinning after we've received a knowledge of the truth, no sacrifice for sins remains but only a fearful expectation of judgment and of raging fire that will consume the enemies of God. Anyone who rejected the law of Moses died without mercy on the testimony of two or three witnesses. How much more severely do you think a man deserves to be punished who has trampled the Son of God underfoot, who is treated as an unholy thing, the blood of the covenant that sanctify him, and who has insulted the Spirit of grace." Did you hear that? Insulted the Spirit of grace. It seems, at least, that the Holy Spirit wants to give us readers of the book of Hebrews a sense of lasting warning that's essential to our salvation. We need to drink in that warning in a healthy way and take it seriously. Sin is dangerous, dear brothers and sisters. It is deadly dangerous. We never know how much we can play with it in our daily lives and reach a breaking point where the Spirit will not convict us and bring us back. John Piper, in talking about this issue of blasphemy against the Spirit basically said the bottom line is run from sin with fear and trembling. The fact that there is an unforgivable sin, that there comes a point in life, in a life of sin after which the Holy Spirit will no longer grant repentance, that fact should drive us from sin with fear and trembling. None of us knows when our toying with sin will pass over into irrevocable hardness of heart. Very few people feel how serious sin really is. Very few people are on the same wavelength with Jesus when He said in Mark 9:43, "If your hand caused you to sin, cut it off. It is better for you to enter life maimed than with two hands to go to hell to the unquenchable fire." Piper says, “Many professing Christians today have such a sentimental view of God's justice that they never feel terror and horror at the thought of being utterly forsaken by God because of their persistence in sin. They have the naive notion that God's patience has no end and that they can always return from any length and depth of sin, forgetting that there is a point of resistance which belittles the Holy Spirit so grievously that He withdraws forever with his convicting power, leaving them never able to repent and be forgiven. They are like the buzzard who spots a carcass on a piece of ice floating in the river. He lands and begins to eat. He knows it is dangerous because the falls are just ahead, but he looks at his own wings and says to himself, ‘I can fly to safety in an instant,’ and he goes on eating just before the ice goes over the falls, he spreads his wings to fly, but his claws have been frozen into the ice and there is now no escape, neither in this age nor the age to come. The Spirit of holiness has forsaken the arrogant sinner forever.” The bottom line for me as a pastor today on this topic is, as has been said many times before, to comfort the disturbed and to disturb the comfortable. What does that mean? As I said in my pastoral prayer, some of you have some needs and other of you have diametrically opposed needs. How one sermon can meet both needs is a mystery that's beyond my ability to comprehend. I have had probably five or six conversations with troubled souls on blasphemy against the Spirit in my ministry. People come to pastors on this question frequently, and they're worried, "Have I committed this unforgivable sin?" I would say my instincts are almost nobody... I can't imagine a person being deeply concerned that they've committed that sin, that they actually have committed that sin. I don't see the scribes of Jerusalem deeply concerned about Jesus' words. Do you? Now we come to just the issue of how do I attain a healthy assurance of my own salvation? That's the question, isn't it? It's not so much the arcane question of theology of blasphemy of the Spirit, the question is the health of our own souls, “Will I be there in heaven forever, feasting with Jesus or not? Or will I hear those terrifying words, ‘When I say to him, "Lord, Lord," and He says, "Depart from me. I never knew you,” and I get the biggest shock of my life.” That's the question that's in front, not so much this question about blasphemy against the Spirit, but the question is how do I arrive or attain to a healthy assurance of my own salvation? Therefore, I think we have to go to the theology of salvation and understand some key factors here, which I've said again and again, salvation comes to us in stages. The first stage is justification, forgiveness of all sins past, present, and future by simple faith in Jesus Christ. You must never let up on that conviction. Forgiveness of sins comes by coming to the cross with faith and trusting in Jesus, not by any good works you can do. But then secondly, salvation, true justification always then produces sanctification, a journey of holiness in which you and the Holy Spirit work together on your actual thinking patterns and behavior patterns. An assurance happens in there. How can I know I'm justified by faith? What's going on with your sanctification? That's how the Bible does it. What's happening in your life? Assurance is salvation and starts with simple faith in Christ, like the thief on the cross. Can you, by faith, know you deserve to die? You are a sinner. If it weren't for Jesus, you would die, and you look over to Jesus with the eyes of faith and say, "Remember me when you come into your kingdom. I'm trusting in you.” You will be forgiven. If you confess with your mouth Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved." But that's only part of the answer. Secondly is fruit. What's the fruit of your life? What's happening in your life? The Bible presents negative fruit and positive fruit. Negatively, are you putting sin to death by the power of the Holy Spirit? We all battle sin, but this is what I think Paul means when he says at the end of his life, with some relief, "I have fought the good fight. I have finished the race. I've kept the faith." It's a marathon race of fighting. What do you think you're fighting? You're fighting sin by the power of the Spirit. Romans 8:13, 14 says, "If you, by the Spirit, put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live." You have to fight sin by the power of the Spirit. You have to mortify sin. Wherever their sin in your life, wherever it is, you've got to be assaulting it, killing it by the Spirit. That's negative. Positively, do you see Christlike attributes growing in your life? What the theologians call the graces of Christ positively growing in your life, such as the fruit of the Spirit. Do you see love, Christlike love growing in your life? Joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness, self control. Do you see these virtues, positive virtues, developing in you. Negatively killing sin by the Spirit, positively Christian graces growing in you. Then, lifestyle actions. Evangelism, prayer, Christian giving, attendance at worship, the various commands of the Christian life. You're just obedient by the Spirit to the Christian life. That's how you'll have assurance. If those things aren't happening in your life, I can't give you assurance and be a good pastor. I would say you need to see these things in your life. That's where you get assurance. Finally, is there a role of a healthy fear of sin in the Christian life? I think so. Right before I came up here, I looked up just to be sure it's not in my outline, but II Corinthians 7:1 tells us to perfect holiness in the fear of God. Friends, that's in the New Testament. Please don't tell me perfect love drives out fear and there is no fear, and then the Holy Spirit... If you have any fear, something's wrong with you. I don't know how you can say that and then have these other verses. There is most certainly a healthy fear of sin. Conversely, it is very unhealthy to say, "I have no fear of what sin can do in my life." Well, what would you do if a brother or sister ever said that to you? "Oh, that's so good. I wish I could get to that place in my life." No, that's not what you would ever say. It's like, "I fear for you." I feel, to some degree, we're all brought back, in some healthy way, to Mount Sinai with the fire and the earthquake and this terror. God says to the Israelites, "Do not be afraid. God has come to you to test you so that the fear of God will keep you from sinning." How can that not be a covenant work, a new covenant work by the Spirit? He works a healthy fear of sin in us so that we won't sin. That's part of the Christian life. In Hebrews 3: 7-8 the Holy Spirit says this, "If today you hear his voice, don't harden your hearts." He then says a few verses later in Hebrews 3, "See to it, brothers, that none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God, but encourage one another daily, as long as it is called today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin's deceitfulness." It is important for us to be vigilant on our souls, that we not be hardened by sin's deceitfulness. If any of you have heard the gospel time and time again, and still have not yet repented and trusted in Christ, let me ask you a question. How many more chances do you think the Holy Spirit is going to give you? You've heard the gospel today. I'm pleading with you, do not presume on a future day. Repent now while there's time. Close with me in prayer. Father, thank you for the word of God that gives a sweet hope and joy, but also necessary warnings and fear. And I pray, oh Lord, that this scripture today would do its proper work in us. Help us, oh Lord, too, to know the danger of sin and to flee to Christ through the Spirit day after day, trusting in him. We thank you for the sweet work of the Spirit in our lives and we pray that you would strengthen us for the fighting marathon we have to run until, finally, you rescue us from this sin-filled world. In Jesus' name, Amen.

In this opening sermon of the series Good Roots, Pastor Davis opens with the most important root of all in our lives, the root of knowing Jesus and discovering that He is indeed more than enough.

In this episode of the Truth Proclaimed Podcast Aaron Owens talks with Raymond Davis III, pastor of Great Expectations Church of Jesus Christ. The conversation centers around Christian Leadership in a post pandemic world in view of our heritage and foundation as the church. Pastor Davis is organizing a leadership conference that is set to take place at his church in Dillon South Carolina on April 28th through the 30th. For more information please go to https://gecdillon.org/Check out the Truth Proclaimed Network at www.thetruthproclaimednetwork.org. Email us at thetruthproclaimednetwork@gmail.com and donate through our cashapp at $IAMAARON1Buzzsprout - Let's get your podcast launched! Start for FREESupport the show (https://cash.app/$iamaaron1)

Dr. Randy Davis, pastor of Zion Word Church and Founder of Zion Word Ministries International USA, speaks to the church about how to approach God in prayer.  Pastor Davis gives several accounts in scripture of how we are to speak in prayer "To The Father" in Jesus name.  To hear more messages by Dr. Randy Davis subscribe to:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCC4Wwdf3CY43Cur6fwvmH-ARumble:  https://rumble.com/c/ZionWordMinistriesIntUSAPodcasts: https://www.buzzsprout.com/40604Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zion_word/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zionwordministriesint

Pastor Davis looks into John 5 at those who were by the pool of Bethesda.

This week Pastor Davis James continues our Christmas Traditions series and talks about the Christmas lights and decorations.