Podcasts about pastor jeff

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From His Heart Audio Podcast
Is True Happiness Really Possible? - Part 1 - Ecclesiastes 1-2

From His Heart Audio Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 9, 2025 25:00


Most people do whatever it is that will make them happy, no matter the cost or consequence. In this eye-opening message from the book of Ecclesiastes, Pastor Jeff leads us through the findings of King Solomon during his quest for happiness and shares the answer to being truly happy in all circumstances. It's called, IS TRUE HAPPINESS REALLY POSSIBLE and it's from the series, LIFE'S BIG QUESTIONS.

Kitchen Table Theology
259 Why Do My Prayers Go Unanswered?

Kitchen Table Theology

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 5, 2025 16:48


What should we think when our prayers don't get answered the way we hoped?In this episode of Kitchen Table Theology, Pastor Jeff and Tiffany continue the series on Practical Theology and take a closer look at why some prayers seem to go unanswered. They explore biblical reasons, the role of timing, the reality of spiritual warfare, and how God's will shapes His response to our requests.What We Discussed[01:33] Introduction to Unanswered PrayerPrayer is essential, yet many believers struggle when their requests don't seem to reach God.[03:07] Placing Limits on GodHow our expectations, deadlines, and demands can hinder the effectiveness of prayer.[04:34] God's Timing vs. Our TimingWhy God may delay in answering until hearts, circumstances, or other people are ready.[05:37] Wrong Motives in PrayerJames 4:3 warns us that selfish or lustful motives can block God's answers.[08:01] The Role of the Holy SpiritWhen we don't know how to pray, the Spirit intercedes for us, aligning our requests with God's will (Romans 8:26).[09:09] Spiritual HindrancesDaniel 10 reveals how demonic forces can resist God's messengers and delay answers to prayer.[12:26] When It's Not for Our GoodSometimes God withholds what we ask because it would harm rather than help us.[13:41] Examining Our HeartsWhy we should evaluate our motives, trust God's wisdom, and remove anything that may hinder prayer.[14:31] A Final Word on Prayer A.J. Gordon once said, “You can do more than pray after you have prayed, but you can never do more than pray until you have prayed.”“God will only give us good things that are in keeping with His will and that contribute to our spiritual wellbeing.” - Pastor Jeff CranstonResources Mentioned:  Billy Graham. “Why Do Prayers Go Unanswered?” July 2013. Accessed 29 September 2025.We love your feedback! If you enjoyed this episode, leave us a review. If you have any questions or comments on today's episode, email me at pastorjeff@lowcountrycc.orgVisit my website https://www.jeffcranston.com and subscribe to my newsletter. Join me on Sunday mornings at LowCountry Community Church. Check in with us on Facebook or Instagram @pastorjeffcranstonRemember, the real power of theology is not only knowing it but applying it. Thanks for listening!

Parkwood Sermons
Boldness & Unity

Parkwood Sermons

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 5, 2025 36:27


This week, Pastor Jeff continues a series in the book of Acts named ACTS: The Mission of God is Our Mission. The next message in the series is based in Acts 4:23-37 and is entitled "Boldness & Unity." The main idea of the sermon is: The followers of Jesus Christ respond to the threat of persecution with dependent prayer, Spirit-filled boldness, and gracious unity. ————————  Connect with Us: Website: parkwoodonline.org Facebook: facebook.com/parkwoodonline Instagram: instagram.com/parkwoodonline.org  Check out more resources and sermons online at: parkwoodresources.org

Lutheran Memorial Church
October 5, 2025 Sermon: "A Holy Calling" -- Pastor Jeff Sorenson [2 Timothy 1:1-14]

Lutheran Memorial Church

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 5, 2025 23:08


This episode includes a children's message, the reading of 2 Timothy 1:1-14, the sermon by Pastor Jeff Sorenson, and the song "Build Your Kingdom Here".

Harvest Bible Chapel Pittsburgh North Sermons - Harvest Bible Chapel Pittsburgh North

Introduction: Know Your Salvation (1 Corinthians 1:1-9) GRACE. (v4) Ephesians 2:8 – For by grace you have been saved through faith. GIFTED. (v5-7a) Ephesians 6:19 – also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel... GUILTLESS. (v7b-9) 2 Corinthians 5:21 – For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. Sermon Notes (PDF): BLANKHint: Highlight blanks above for answers! Small Group DiscussionRead 1 Corinthians 1:1-9What was your big take-away from this passage / message?If the Bible is so clear that we are saved by grace (Ephesians 2:8), why do so many people insist on earning your salvation or hold the idea that good people go to heaven?Explain 1 Cor 1:5 in your own words. How does this apply to your personal walk with Christ?What does 1 Cor 1:8 say about the doctrine of eternal security (once saved, always saved)?Why do you think Paul starts this letter by calling them sanctified (1 Cor 1:2) and reminding them of their salvation (1 Cor 1:4-6)? BreakoutPray for one another. AUDIO TRANSCRIPT Today is our ministry year kickoff and that also means that today is our anniversary.So today we are celebrating 14 years of Harvest Bible Chapel and we're like alot of 14 year olds. We've come a long way but we have a long way to go.Right? What kind of church is this? We sit on four pillars we have from thebeginning. We've proclaimed the authority of God's Word without apology. That'swhat kind of church this is. We lift high the name of Jesus in worship. That'swhat kind of church this is. We believe firmly in the power of prayer. That's whatkind of church this is. And we share the good news of Jesus with boldness. Thoseare the four pillars this church was resting on when it was planted by God'sgrace. Those are the four pillars today. It may it always be. So I want you to openup your Bibles to 1 Corinthians and we're just going to pause. I want you to justplease pray for me to be faithful to communicate God's Word and I will prayfor you to have a heart open to receive what it is the Lord wants to teach ustoday. Alright? Let's just take a moment.Father in heaven as we get into your Word now I pray that your Spiritwould work with your Word in the hearts of every person here. In the hearts ofevery person that is streaming or going to be listening to this podcast later.Father thanks to the technologies we have in our day. This goes out to somany people all over the planet and we thank you that you've given usopportunity and we want to use that opportunity to exalt your Word, to exaltyour Son. Father has to start right here.Father incline our hearts towards nothing but your glory. We pray in Jesus' name.All of God's people said amen. Amen. A couple of decades ago Aaron and I weredoing foster care and for about a year and a half we had a brother and sister.They were five and seven and it was at the time it was the worst case of childabuse in Butler County. I don't know if that's still the case but it was at thetime. But the five-year-old boy was pretty broken when he came to us. Hecouldn't even talk really and we tried our hardest to give them somesemblance of a normal childhood. You know? Well one of the things that we did tothat end was we signed our five-year-old, his name is Walter. We signed him up forsoccer and I played soccer in high school and in college so I was asked tohelp coach the team. Now anybody ever coach five-year-olds in soccer? It's areal hoot because coaches have to be on the field with the kids. Okay, not on theside shouting instructions. "Will, you're standing on the field with the kids andyou have to run." And did you ever see five-year-olds play soccer? Okay, it's notlike World Cup where they're all like spread out and passing. It's just thiswave of kids chasing the ball. Well we were really trying to get really tryingto get Walter to embrace this, right? It was a big part of my childhood. Justwasn't clicking. The kids would run by with the ball. We're like, "Walter, get theball! Get the ball!" And Walter would run a couple of steps and he'd go, "They're toofast." Like, "Walter, no, come on, come on, get the ball! They're too fast." And then hewould get increasingly frustrated. Walter's big insult for people was tocall them naked. So the kids would run by, I'm like, "Walter, get the ball!" He goes,"They're naked! They're naked! They're naked!" And I'm like, "Actually, they'reclothed, but we need you to hustle, right?" And I don't know if this is greatparenting or not. Probably not. But at one point, Aaron and I offered Walter 25cents for every time he even touched the ball. We paid up zero. Well the othercoach, she was the mom of the goalie. Before the first game, she pulled measide. She goes, "I just want to warn you. I can't remember her son's name. We'll callhim Joey." She goes, "I just want to warn you." She goes, "Joey doesn't like gettingscored on." I'm like, "Well, that makes sense." She goes, "No, he really, reallyoverreacts." Like, well, good to know. Well, sure enough, we got scored on. To saythat the kid lost his mind as an understatement, he started ripping hisclothes like trying to rip his jersey off. And it was this scene. It was likehe was turning into the Hulk. And I'm watching this. I'm like, "Oh, man, what isgoing on here?" And then all of a sudden, I realized, "Wait a minute. Where didWalter go?" All of a sudden, I lost the foster kid. You don't want to tell theagency that. I'm like, "Where did he go? Where is he? Where?" Then I looked down.Walter is celebrating with the other team. Hugs and high fives and...This unity on the soccer team, it was funny. But you know, when there's thisunity in the church, it's not so funny. Let's be honest, we're a lot like thosekids in the soccer team sometimes, aren't we? Irrationally losing our minds overstupid things, calling people names, not wanting to participate. That's the themeof this first stretch in 1 Corinthians. You're gonna be hearing this a lot,because it's important to the heart of God, so it's important to the heart ofthe leaders in this church. Get unified. Church, we need to get unified.1 Corinthians was written to the church in Corinth, and you have tounderstand a little bit about their background. The city of Corinth wascorrupt. Like, how corrupt were they? They were so corrupt that the city's veryname became synonymous with immorality.They were known for their temple to the false goddess Aphrodite, the goddess oflove, and they had about a thousand priestesses who served as prostitutes.So you can imagine what passed for worship in Corinth.Well, it's in that backdrop that the Apostle Paul planted a church. You can readabout this, little homework assignment for you. Acts chapter 18. Go home and read it.Not right now, but go home and read it, and you'll see how the church was planted.So you have this church planted in this horrible city, and the church, the churchitself, was absolutely perfect. They just had two problems. Bad doctrine and badbehavior. Other than that, they were perfect. What the Corinthian church neededwas unity and purity. Look at chapter 1 verse 1. Paul called by the will of Godto be an apostle of Christ Jesus and our brother Sostenes to the church of Godthat is in Corinth, to those sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saintstogether with all those who in every place call upon the name of our LordJesus Christ, both their Lord and ours. Grace to you in peace from God, ourFather, and the Lord Jesus Christ. This church had a lot of problems, and we'regoing to be getting into that. And if you're familiar with God's word at all,you know. And it's so interesting to me that Paul starts this letter saying, hey,you Christians, those of you in Christ Jesus, you are sanctified. That word meansholy, I mean set apart. And then he goes, he calls them saints. Again, the wordmeans holy. Saint is a name for all true Christians, by the way. And when you lookat this little introduction, you're like, wow, Paul, that's quite a thing to saywhen you consider the rest of the book. And we're going to see as we go throughthis, but these Christians were worldly, and they were divisive, and there wassexual sin, and the list goes on and on and on. They were just, they were somessed up in so many ways. And why in the world would Paul kick this letter up bysaying you sanctified saints you? Like, why would he start that way?What, was it to butter them up? Like, I'm about to lay the hammer down, so I'm justgoing to make you feel good on the front. That wasn't it. Was Paul justignoring all their problems? Like, maybe if I don't mention it, they'll go away.No, that's certainly not it. So why did he start by calling them sanctifiedsaints? Why? Because it was true. Wait, wait, wait. How can they be holy and stillstruggle with being holy? Well, biblically, when we talk about holiness,holiness is two things. There's positional holiness, and there is practicalholiness. Positional holiness is when you receive Jesus Christ as your Lord andSavior, when you believe in Him, when you are born again, God pronounces you holy.In God's eyes, He's looking at you through the lens of Jesus Christ, and from God'sperspective, He says you are perfectly holy. We're going to talk more about thatin just a couple of minutes. So while we are positionally holy, practicalholiness, that is the growing, living like Christ, growing in Christ'slikeness, doing the things that honor the Lord, growing in maturity as a Christian.Put it this way, the Christian life is growing to be what God already pronouncedyou to be. That's what the Christian life is. It's growing to be what Godalready pronounced you to be. It's like joining the army. When you enlist in thearmy, as soon as you enlist, you are a soldier. So why go to boot camp? Why doyou go to boot camp? So they make you a soldier. You're like, "Wait, I thought Ialready was." You are. That's what the army does. They're making you what they'vecalled you to be. That's what God does in holiness. He's pronounced you holy andJesus, and your sanctification, your growth, your maturity. He is making you whatHe's already pronounced you to be. So now do you understand why Paul started theletter this way? Paul says, "Granthians, this is who you are. This is your identity.You are holy people." So we're going to get to this down the road. Paul's saying,"If you're holy, why are you acting unholy? Sin is inconsistent with who youare." So if we, Corinthian church, if we harvest Bible chapel, if we are going tobe unified and purified, it has to start here. You have to know your salvation.That's where Paul starts. So on your outline, I want you to draw three wordsdown. Know your salvation. Now this passage we're looking at today says somuch in just a few short verses. It says so much about salvation. The Bibleitself says so much about salvation, but you're going to see here in this passageknowing salvation is really knowing three G's. Your cell phone might needfive G's, God only needs three. Know your salvation. Three G's, it's allstraight from the text. Here's what you have to know about your salvation.If you're going to grow in unity and purity, here's what you have to knowabout your salvation. Number one, write this word down. Grace.Look at verse 4. "I give thanks to my God always for you, because of the grace ofGod that was given you in Christ Jesus." And I get to tell you as a pastor, I lovethat. He says, "I give thanks for you." Again, the church had so many issues thatPaul needed to deal with, but notice he didn't see them for where they are. Hesaw them for who they are. It's like, "I give thanks for you." Why? They were given.Actually, that word in the Greek refers to being given something at a moment oftime in the past. You know, I'm thankful for you because at one point in your past,you were given one of the most beautiful words in the whole Bible. The word isgrace. You were given grace. You know, that's a word that we throw around a lotin church. Sometimes we don't wrestle down what exactly it means.You look up a theology textbook, grace is unmerited favor. It is undeservedkindness. But you know, the best definition of grace I've ever heard isthis, grace is God giving to you what He requires from you. That's grace. Godgiving to you what He requires from you. What does God require from you?Holiness, righteousness, perfection. God requires that. We don't have it. Grace isGod giving that to us in Jesus Christ. Sometimes we mix up grace with otherconcepts in the Bible like long suffering and mercy and things like that. Myfavorite illustration, some of you have heard this before. You're going to hear itagain. It helps me to really understand what grace is, is this. Imagine that youhave a teenage son. Some of you do and some of you did. Some of you will andsome of you can use your imaginations. But imagine you have a teenage son andyour teenage son goes to a party. And at this party there's another boy, same ageas your son, who hates your son. Something stupid probably, a girl andmurders your son. Cold-blooded murder, unprovoked murder. This other kidmurders your son. Now, if you track that kid down that murders your son, if youtrack him down and you kill him, that is called vengeance. But if you track himdown and you help the law, you help the police get him arrested, that's calledjustice. But if you track him down, help the police get him arrested and you showup at his court date and somehow, somehow, you're able to convince the judge tojust let him go. Like just let him go. That's called mercy. But you help thepolice track him down, arrest him and you show up at his court date and somehow,somehow, you convince the judge to allow you to adopt that kid as your own andraise him as your own son. That's called grace. And understand that's what God hasdone for us in the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We have sinned against him and wekilled his son. And what's God's response to that? God's response is, "I want toadopt you." That is grace. The Bible tells us, Ephesians chapter 2, "For by grace youhave been saved through faith." By grace we have been saved, we've been adopted, we'vebeen regenerated, we've been sanctified. It's all grace. Grace isn't withheldbecause of our sin. God is able to be gracious to us because Jesus Christ tookaway our sin. Our part is faith. That's our part. Faith is believing in Jesus.It's believing Jesus is who he said he is. He is God in the flesh. It's believingthat Jesus accomplished what he said he would accomplish. That his death on thecross was to pay the penalty for my sin and for your sin. He rose from the dead togive us eternal life. It's believing that. It's receiving that. Our part is faith.God has done all the work in Christ. That's His grace.Now, this is so fundamental.But at the same time, it's so hard to believe. It's so hard to believe becauseevery single area of our lives are performance-based. Every single one. Right?My boss is happy with me when I perform. My teacher at school is happy with me whenI perform. My family is happy with me when I perform. Every area of life it's justI gotta do stuff to make somebody happy and we bring that thinking into thechurch. Like what do I have to do to make God happy? This is salvation is notbased on your performance. It's based on Jesus Christ's performance.So as we start this stretch, as Paul starts this stretch in 1 Corinthianstelling the Corinthian church, telling Harvest Bible Chapel today, get unified.You have to know your salvation and you have to understand grace because it'sonly when you understand this that you take the first step to unity. What doesthis have to do with unity? Grace puts us all on the same level.We don't have time to do this but I'd sure like to. I'd like to get everyChristian to line up here like we do for communion. We will be doing that. I'dlike to get every Christian line up here. Just have testimony time. How were yousaved? By grace? Not because you were special or you worked for it? Oh that'sawesome, me too. Next. How were you saved? Oh by grace? Not because you were specialor did anything to earn it? Oh me too. Next. Do you see what that does?None of us deserve to be saved. None of us. None of us are any better thananother.We're not going to get unified until we come to grips with that. We're all onthe same level. We all, in Christ, are recipients of grace.It's the first thing you need to know about salvation. The second one, number two,write this word down. Gifted. Gifted.Look at verse 5 through the first part of verse 7.Paul says that in every way you were enriched in him in all speech and allknowledge, even as the testimony about Christ was confirmed among you, so thatyou are not lacking in any spiritual gift.You are not lacking in any spiritual gift. You see grace speaks to the past.That's what was received. Gifted speaks to the present. You are saved to serve.Notice Paul says you are enriched. You are not lacking any gift. Jesus,Paul is telling us here, Jesus has gifted you everything that you need to serve him.You're like, well, can you be more specific? He was more specific actually.Do you notice that? What is that? Verse 5, all speech and all knowledge.These are two of the gifts that he highlights here. First of all, you weregifted with all speech. You were gifted with the ability to speak the truth.All knowledge. You were gifted with all knowledge. That doesn't mean you knoweverything. That means you know everything that you need to know pertaining to the gospel.So here's what Paul is saying. Listen, church, you have been gifted to speak and you have beengifted with knowing what to say. So the question is, how are you using that?You have the gift if you're a Christian. How are you using that?Here at this church, it can be used in teaching and preaching.All speech, all knowledge. It can be used in Harvest Academy,teaching the kids back there while we're teaching in here. It can be used in small group.It can be used in youth group, in conferences, in prayer services, in workshops, in precepts,in our witnessing.You've been given a gift. How are you using it?Because the reality is the biggest problem with most Christians is not that we don't know what to say.Our problem is just opening our mouths and saying.I hear that all the time when it comes to witnessing. Well, I don't really witness becauseI don't know what to say. If you don't know enough to share, then you probably don't know enough to be saved.Look what Paul says in Ephesians 619.He's talking about prayer. He says, "Praying also for me that words may be given to me in openingmy mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel." You see that? Paul didn't say,"Pray that I can't speak or pray that I would know what to say." He says, "I need boldness."Our fourth pillar, sharing the good news of Jesus with boldness. That's what we need to be praying for.Boldness isn't jerkiness. It's not obnoxiousness. It's just confidence in God's calling and God'sgifting. It's just confidence to say, "Look, God gave me a message and he gave me the knowledgeof what I'm supposed to say, so I'm just going to open my mouth and I'm going to say it."And again, if you know enough to be saved, then you know enough to share.Share what you know. Look at verse 6 again. I love as he says, "Even as the testimonyabout Christ was confirmed among you." What's he saying? He's saying the people of Jesus usingthe gifts of Jesus is confirmation that Jesus is at work in the church.When I was little, my dad, for Christmas one year, he wanted magnifying goggles.Because he was going to undertake this hobby of putting boats and bottles. Have you ever seenthese things where you have like a bottle and there's like a boat inside? You know what I'mtalking about? Okay, my dad was going, "I'm going to make those and I need magnifying goggles."Like I said, I was just a little kid. I'm like, "I'm going to get those for dad."Now listen, I can tell already you're not impressed. So I'm going to remind you of something.This was pre-Internet. I know right now you can get on your phone and get on Amazon's orEtsy or whatever. I don't know. But you can eBay, you can get on there and you can probably rightnow find me 500 pairs of magnifying goggles. This was pre-Internet. This was pre-smartphone.This was pre-cell phone.All right? So I'm like, "I'm going to find those for him." And you know, it took me forevermaking phone calls and going to different stores and talking to people and tracking.And do you know, I found a pair of them. I went to a jewelry repair storeand I found them and I saved my money. Those weren't cheap. I saved my money,especially for a little kid. I saved my money and I bought those magnifying goggles.I bought them for dad for Christmas. I got to tell you, I can't think of a gift that I was moreexcited to give in my life. See, one of them, I couldn't get them, but I tracked them down.And I was so, I was so proud to give dad those magnifying goggles for Christmas.Well, my father died in 2003. And you know, when somebody passes away and you start tokind of go through their stuff and figure out what to do with all that,found those magnifying goggles, still in the box, never used.And I wonder, church,when Jesus returns, how many boxes of magnifying goggles is he going to find?I wonder when Jesus returns, how many of his gifts that he gave to his people,is he going to return and find? Oh, we had them. We didn't use them.We didn't use them. You have been gifted so much. And we're going to talk about this later,the gifts of the Holy Spirit. We're going to talk about this later in 1 Corinthians.But have you been using the gifts that God gave you?Listen, if your mindset is this, you know what, Pastor Jeff, I just attend church.My spiritual gift is attendance. My spiritual gift is warming a seat. And you know, I just leavethe ministry to the professionals. I don't really have a gift. That's bad news. Because not havinga gift means you're not saved, because he tells us right here that Jesus' people are enriched in him.Paul is saying, church, you have everything you need. Everything has been gifted to you,to minister to each other, and to reach the world.So look, there's no bench warmers on this team.On this team, listen, if you're saved, you're starting.All right? Don't call the other players naked. All right? If you're saved, you're starting.Get unified. Get unified. You know, the biggest unity killer in the church is selfishness.My wants, my desires, my preferences, especially in this culture where we are right now,right here geographically where we are, this is a horrible place. Because the mindset of mostchurchgoers in this area is church is the place that I go to get. And I'm going to this churchbecause they have better coffee, and I'm going to this church because, you know, they have a zipline for their youth group, and I'm going to this church because they have fog machines and laserlights. And we have this idea that church is the place that I go to get. And that is completelyforeign to the Bible. Church is not the place you go to get. Church is the place you go to get.And anything you receive here is bonus. The mindset has to be church is the place I go to get.You're expected to. It's why you're saved, and it's why you have been gifted.Know your salvation. Three Gs, grace, gifted, one more.Guiltless.Guiltless. Pick up second part of verse seven,where he says, "As you wait for the revealing of our Lord Jesus Christ."That Greek word for wait means to wait eagerly. Right? I don't have to tell you on that.There's a big difference between the way a kid is waiting to open his birthday presentsversus the way that kid's dad is waiting at the DMV. Right? This is wait eagerly. It's this idea ofanticipation like, "Oh, he's coming. He's coming. I can't wait. I cannot wait. Jesus is coming, and Icannot wait." Do you see that? What are we waiting for? He tells us the revealing of our Lord JesusChrist. I don't know if you noticed, but Jesus Christ is mocked now. He's about to show up.And he's going to make everything right. And he's going to make everything new.Are you excited for that? I sure am.In the verse eight, he says, "Who will sustain you to the end? Who will sustain you to the end?If you believe that you can lose your salvation, I want you to explain that verse to me.Will sustain you to the end?" Did you ever wonder if you're going to make it?Did you ever wonder,am I going to make it to the end? Loving Jesus, following Jesus, serving Jesus, am I going to make it?Listen, if you are legitimately born again in Christ, you will make it.On the authority of the Word of God, you are going to make it.Because you didn't work to earn your salvation, and you can't work to keep your salvation.And here very plainly, God's Word tells us that Jesus will sustain you to the end.How? That's His responsibility. He's going to get you there.You're like, okay, well maybe He's going to get me there, Pastor Jeff, but I got a lot to answer for.When I stand before God, He's going to tell me how disappointed He is in me.God's going to tell me how upset He is with me. And I've had people tell me, Pastor Jeff,you know what, when we're like in line to get to heaven, don't be standing behind me.Because God is, He's got a lot of stuff that He's going to, He's really going to let me have it.You don't want to stand behind me in line to get to heaven.Well, let's keep reading, shall we? Who will sustain you to the end? Look at this.Guiltless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ.Guiltless.In that day, when you stand before Christ, it is not going to be for Himto tell you how badly you messed up. In Christ, what does your Bible say? You have no guilt.2 Corinthians 5.21 says, "For our sake, God He made Him Jesus."God made Jesus to be sin, who knew no sin, so that in Him we might become the righteousnessof God. There's a trade that's going on here. Jesus took our sin on Himself, on the cross,to the point that somehow He is personified sin here.He took our sin. What did He give us in exchange? So that in Him we might become the righteousnessof God. Do you see that this grace, it didn't just take away your sin. God's gracemade you as righteous as God Himself is. And look, you can talk to me about the trinityand creation and predestination, and I've never lost a moment's sleep over any of those things.To me, this is the most baffling doctrine in the entire Bible, the fact that God would takea piece of dirt, sinner like me, and because of Jesus Christ, He would pronounce me as righteousas He is. I don't even have the ability to explain how awesome that is.Guiltless. He's going to sustain you until the day that you stand before Him when Hepronounces you guiltless. You're like, "You sure about that?"Well, look at verse 9, "God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowshipof His Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord." Yeah, I am sure about that, because it's not basedon my ability, and it's not based on my integrity. It's based on God's ability,and it's based on God's integrity. He called you to this, the fellowship of His Son.You've got to know your salvation.And you see, it's past, present, and future, right? It's justification, sanctification,glorification. It's just in this particular passage, it's grace, gifts, and guiltless.And for them then, and for us now, this isn't new information.But these are foundational truths that we seem to forget about over time.Because church harvest Bible chapel like the Corinthians over time, we tend to forget aboutour identity in Jesus Christ. We forget that we were lost, hellbound sinners saved by His grace.We forget that we are here to serve, not to be served. We forget that Jesus Christ is comingsoon, and we forget that this is Jesus' church, not our church.And when we forget these things, unity goes out the window, because we start to thinkthat church is about us. Know your salvation. It's Jesus. It's Jesus. It's His grace. It's His gifts.It's His fellowship. So our worship team makes their way forward in our communion servers.You know, Jesus gave us a way to remind us of all these truths that unite us in Him.That's what I love about the Lord's table. Jesus said, "Do this in remembrance of Me."This keeps bringing us back when we are tempted to think this is about us, when we are tempted tothink that we are contributing to our salvation. When we are tempted to thinkthat God doesn't love us and we need to figure stuff out, this brings us back to the foundationaltruths of the way God purchased your salvation and what it means for us today.

Walking with God, Pat and Jeff's Podcast
Sabbath Rest | Pat Barry and Pastor Jeff Quinto

Walking with God, Pat and Jeff's Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 4, 2025 22:36


In this episode of Walking with God, Pat and Jeff explore the meaning and importance of the Sabbath — not just as a commandment, but as a gift from God. They openly admit that while they know how vital rest and renewal are, actually living it out is another story. Join them as they share honest reflections, a few confessions, and practical steps they're taking to better honor the Sabbath — stepping back from busyness, reconnecting with God, and finding peace in His presence. Please "like" and subscribe to this podcast so more people will get access to these important conversations. Note: The opinions expressed in this podcast are those of Pat Barry and Jeff Quinto and may not reflect the opinions of the Bethel Bible Series or Bethel Lutheran Church. Blessings in Christ,  Pat & Jeff Soli Deo Gloria!

A Beautiful Day Devotional Podcast
October 3 2025 - Beautiful Day Devotional Podcast

A Beautiful Day Devotional Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 3, 2025 3:00


It's FRI-YAY and Shout-Out Day! Pastor Jeff reminds us that following Jesus is more than just knowing about Him—it's living like Him every day. Ephesians 5:1 5 1 Follow God's example, therefore, as dearly loved children

Sound Doctrine
Ready and Not Ashamed part 1

Sound Doctrine

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 3, 2025 26:00


Pastor Jeff is about to share some powerful observations about the gospel, that are most certainly noteworthy. The gospel really lives up to its name. It's good news. And with everything going on in this world right now, I think you'd agree we can most certainly all use some good news. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/621/29

A Beautiful Day Devotional Podcast
October 2 2025 - Beautiful Day Devotional Podcast

A Beautiful Day Devotional Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 2, 2025 2:19


Today, Pastor Jeff shares from Proverbs 4:7, showing that knowing God and understanding His ways is the most important thing we can do. The more we learn about Him, the stronger our faith grows. Proverbs 4:7 7 The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.

Turning Point Church
07 - Joseph: The Pit of Betrayal by Pastor Jeff Wickwire - Audio

Turning Point Church

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 1, 2025 53:08


10.01.2025 | Genesis From 30,000 Feet | Part 7: Joseph: The Pit of Betrayal | Pastor Jeff Wickwire Discover how God's sovereignty shines through betrayal in this powerful message from Genesis! Pastor Jeff Wickwire unpacks Joseph's incredible journey from the pit to the palace, revealing how God works ALL things for good - even when others mean harm. You'll learn practical wisdom about handling betrayal and trusting God's bigger plan. Whether you're facing challenges or seeking hope, this message will transform your perspective on God's control in your life.

We Saved You a Spot
Episode 128 - Discussions with a Pastor

We Saved You a Spot

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 1, 2025 69:17


This week, Hannah and Barbi sit down with Barbi's pastor, Jeff Tapp, for a thoughtful and insightful conversation about faith and living as a Christian. They discuss salvation, common misconceptions and mistakes Christians make, and assumptions people often have about what it means to follow Christ. Pastor Jeff also shares practical advice on how to grow and be a better Christian in everyday life. Tune in for a deep, reflective conversation full of wisdom, guidance, and encouragement for anyone seeking to strengthen their faith.

Sunnybrook Community Church
Unscripted #119 - Ghosts, Demons, & Exorcisms

Sunnybrook Community Church

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 30, 2025 13:11


In this episode, Pastor Jeff & Lydia talk about the validity of there being ghosts in this world, why and how demonic occurrences take place, and even talk about an exorcism Pastor Jeff took part in!

A Beautiful Day Devotional Podcast
September 30 2025 - Beautiful Day Devotional Podcast

A Beautiful Day Devotional Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 30, 2025 2:51


Today, Pastor Jeff shares from James 1:17, reminding us that the world can subtly try to change how we think—but God's truth remains unchanged.  James 1:17 17 Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.

Turning Point Church
01 - The Power of a Seed by Pastor Jeff Wickwire - Audio

Turning Point Church

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 29, 2025 44:09


09.28.2025 | Sowers, Seeds, and Soils | Part 1: The Power of a Seed | Pastor Jeff Wickwire Discover the profound truth about how every thought, word, and action you plant today shapes your tomorrow. In this eye-opening message, Pastor Jeff Wickwire reveals the universal principle of sowing and reaping that affects every area of our lives.

A Beautiful Day Devotional Podcast
September 29 2025 - Beautiful Day Devotional Podcast

A Beautiful Day Devotional Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 29, 2025 2:54


This week, Pastor Jeff sets the stage for our new series, Faith Questions / Truth Bombs! Discover why a strong foundation of faith is essential for living out our faith today. Matthew 7:24 24 Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.

2 Cities Church Podcast
1 Corinthians 15:12-28: Jesus is Lord Over All, or not Lord at all! / Pastor Jeff Struecker

2 Cities Church Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 29, 2025 32:17


Big Idea: Jesus is Lord Over All, or not Lord at all! 1 Corinthians 15:12-28I. Jesus is the Lord with all power. 1 Corinthians 15:12-19Now if Christ is proclaimed as raised from the dead, how can some of you say, “There is no resurrection of the dead”? If there is no resurrection of the dead, then not even Christ has been raised; and if Christ has not been raised, then our proclamation is in vain, and so is your faith. Moreover, we are found to be false witnesses about God, because we have testified wrongly about God that he raised up Christ—whom he did not raise up, if in fact the dead are not raised. For if the dead are not raised, not even Christ has been raised. And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is worthless; you are still in your sins. Those, then, who have fallen asleep in Christ have also perished. If we have put our hope in Christ for this life only, we should be pitied more than anyone.II. Jesus is the Lord who goes before you. 1 Corinthians 15:20-23But as it is, Christ has been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead also comes through a man. For just as in Adam all die, so also in Christ all will be made alive. But each in his own order: Christ, the firstfruits; afterward, at his coming, those who belong to Christ.III. Jesus is Lord over all your enemies. 1 Corinthians 15:24-28Then comes the end, when he hands over the kingdom to God the Father, when he abolishes all rule and all authority and power. For he must reign until he puts all his enemies under his feet. The last enemy to be abolished is death. For God has put everything under his feet. Now when it says “everything” is put under him, it is obvious that he who puts everything under him is the exception. When everything is subject to Christ, then the Son himself will also be subject to the one who subjected everything to him, so that God may be all in all.Next Steps: Believe: I need Jesus to change my dead heart today.Become: I will trust Jesus to fight my battles this week. Be Sent: I will explain the resurrection to someone this week.Discussion Questions: Did the resurrection give you hope in the midst of a challenge last week?  If so, explain.Who do you long to spend time with in eternity? If you could ask them today, what would you want to know about eternity? Describe how your closest relationship would change if you both lived forever.How is it possible that someone with power over death and the grave could die?  Who do you know facing a spiritual battle this week? Pray for the opportunity to push back darkness in their lives this week. 

Yosemite Church
Kingdom Identity | King of Hearts | Pastor Jeff

Yosemite Church

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 29, 2025 66:26


Hey YC Online! ABOUT YOSEMITE CHURCH: Our mission is meeting people where they are and loving them to where Christ wants them to be. Yosemite Church wants to help you find your next step. Find locations, videos, and more info about us at https://yc.church/ or download the Yosemite Church app. NEXT STEPS: Have you made a decision to follow Jesus? You may be wondering what's next on your journey. We want to help! Let us guide you to your next steps in your walk with Christ: https://yc.church/baptism GIVE ONLINE: https://pushpay.com/g/yosemitechurch FIND US ON SOCIAL MEDIA: https://www.facebook.com/yosemitechurch https://www.instagram.com/yosemitechurch/ All music performed under CCLI Licenses: 6010 and CSPL028666

Kitchen Table Theology
258 How To Pray: What the Bible Teaches About Prayer

Kitchen Table Theology

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 28, 2025 24:04


What does the Bible really say about how we should pray?Prayer is one of the most powerful gifts God has given us, but many believers still wonder if they're doing it “right.” In this episode, Pastor Jeff and Tiffany discuss the biblical foundation of prayer. Together, they dive into who we pray to, whether posture or place matters, and three key “ingredients” that every believer should keep in mind when approaching God. What We Discussed[03:28] What Is Prayer?Prayer is “communicating with God by word, thought, or heavenward glance.” This reflects the heart of biblical teaching.[05:35] Who Do We Pray To?Prayer is directed to the triune God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Each person of the Trinity participates (Psalm 5:2, Acts 7:59, Ephesians 5:20, Romans 8:26).[11:23] Are There Rules for Prayer?Does posture, time, or place matter in prayer?[14:25] The Ingredients of PrayerPastor Jeff introduces three conditions for effective prayer: praying in Jesus' name, making definite requests, and asking persistently.[18:10] Persistent Prayer ExplainedThey explore Jesus' teaching in Luke 11 about asking, seeking, and knocking, with practical parallels like tracking an Amazon delivery.[22:17] God Is Ready to Do MorePray boldly, trust God's timing, and remember that God answers prayer for the glory of His name.“To pray in Jesus' name is more than sticking His name on the end of our prayers; it means praying according to His will and His interests.” - Pastor Jeff CranstonWe love your feedback! If you enjoyed this episode, leave us a review. If you have any questions or comments on today's episode, email me at pastorjeff@lowcountrycc.orgVisit my website https://www.jeffcranston.com and subscribe to my newsletter. Join me on Sunday mornings at LowCountry Community Church. Check in with us on Facebook or Instagram @pastorjeffcranstonRemember, the real power of theology is not only knowing it but applying it. Thanks for listening!

BRAVE Church
Taking Ground: Taking Ground Is Bigger Than Us

BRAVE Church

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 28, 2025 40:48


What if God's plans for His church were bigger than we could imagine? In the heart of a powerful message about divine possibilities, Pastor Jeff shares how God showed up miraculously at Buena Vista Correctional Facility—389 inmates responding to the gospel in a single day, far exceeding expectations of 100. Through stories of God's faithfulness in church planting, prison ministry, and everyday miracles, Pastor Jeff reveals how taking ground for God's kingdom is about more than buildings or budgets—it's about believing in a God whose ability exceeds our limits and whose power works within us. Ready to be part of something bigger than yourself? Watch or listen to discover how God wants to use you in His unstoppable mission. The future of His church is brighter than we can imagine! Speaker: Jeff Schwarzentraub

Harvest Bible Chapel
Two Marks of True Religion | Pastor Jeff Bucknam

Harvest Bible Chapel

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 28, 2025 51:24


Welcome to the Harvest Bible Chapel podcast. We're in the series True Religion from the Book of James. This weekend, Pastor Jeff Bucknam opens James 1:27 with a challenging message called “Two Marks of True Religion.” What proves that someone really follows Jesus? According to James, it's not flashy rituals or religious talk, but two unmistakable marks—caring for the oppressed and remaining unstained by the world. Listen as Pastor Jeff unpacks these life-defining truths and calls us to a faith that shows up in love and holiness. This podcast is a production of Harvest Bible Chapel in Chicago. Executive Producer: Flavius Herlo Speaker: Pastor Jeff Bucknam Sound design, mixing, and editing: Bryan Tripp Graphic Design: Wesley Cassford Social Media: Bryan Spahr Producer: Dave Putnam WE INVITE YOU TO CONNECT WITH US: • Website: www.harvestbible.org/ WE INVITE YOU TO FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA: • Instagram: @harvestbiblechapel • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/harvestbiblechapel/

Hope City Church
Community: Week 4 - The Finale / Pastor Jeff Bowman

Hope City Church

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 28, 2025 41:25


Community: Week 4 - The Finale / Pastor Jeff Bowman by Hope City Church

Authentic Church Orange County
STEWARDING YOUR STRESS | Pastor Jeff Peterson | September 28th 2025

Authentic Church Orange County

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 28, 2025 69:39


Pastor Jeff delivers a powerful message entitled, "STEWARDING YOUR STRESS"   Authentic Church is a Bible-based, Spirit-empowered, Presence-driven church in Orange County with the mission to Love God, Love People, and Live Authentic.   Our Vision is to Encounter God, Discover Community, and Fulfill God's call on our lives.   For service times and info, please visit us online or via our social media platforms: AuthenticOC.com   To stay up to date on all things Authentic, text the word "Authentic" to 94000   Subscribe to receive our latest messages!   #Sermon #AuthenticChurch #OrangeCountyChurch   We would be honored if you would like to support this ministry and help us continue to reach people with the authentic gospel... click here: https://pushpay.com/g/authenticoc   Love God. Love People. Live Authentic.   Stay Connected   Website: https://authenticoc.com/   Authentic Church Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthenticChurchOC/   Authentic Church Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authenticchurchoc/   Authentic Church YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWxskUerFuBNhLZI3wpqzlg

The Church At Bushland
Experiencing God: God's Work - September 28, 2025

The Church At Bushland

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 28, 2025


New to The Church at Bushland? Tell us a little about you and receive a personal note from Pastor Jeff. First Time Guest: https://www.thechurchatbushland.com/guestform?location=livestream How can we pray for you? Submit your prayer request here: https://www.thechurchatbushland.com/prayerrequest Subscribe to get the latest videos: https://www.youtube.com/c/TheChurchAtBushland We also have our newest channel, @TCABClips, with sermon and worship highlights and short content from Digging for the Truth. Subscribe, turn on notifications, and never miss an episode! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6VflV8HJUd-6vTX9CSJRKw Listen while you work, exercise, or whatever keeps you busy: Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/channel/the-church-at-bushland/id6442779332 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/077EsZwp6Y7pPhv7X8mXEY?si=893d09eeae9142d5 Support the online ministry at TCAB. Join the giving team today! https://www.thechurchatbushland.com/giving Download the TCAB App today! iOS - https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-church-at-bushland/id1495461805 Android - https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.kidunottech.culminate.tcab Connect with The Church at Bushland: Website | https://thechurchatbushland.com Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/thechurchatbushland/ Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/thechurchatbushland/

Lutheran Memorial Church
September 28, 2025 Sermon: "Godliness Combined with Contentment" -- Pastor Jeff Sorenson [1 Timothy 6:6-12, 17-19]

Lutheran Memorial Church

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 28, 2025 19:37


This episode contains a children's message and the sermon.

Sermons from LifeJourney Church

This week Pastor Jeff begins a new sermon series called "Lessons from the Life of Moses." Moses is one of the most impactful figures in both human history and spiritual history. We're going to learn so much from him -- practical lessons that we can apply to our daily lives.

LIFE|CHURCH Chico
Sunday Service: A Church Engaged (Intentional Influence) - Pastor Jeff Young

LIFE|CHURCH Chico

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 28, 2025 49:09


Jesus called His followers the salt of the earth and light of the world, emphasizing their value and purpose. As salt, believers preserve spiritual health and purify their surroundings by standing firm against corruption. As light, they illuminate the path to Jesus for others. Rather than trying to influence masses, Jesus encourages focusing on our immediate influence zone—typically 3-5 people God has strategically placed in our lives. By identifying our 'one' person to intentionally influence and maintaining our distinctive Christian character, we create a ripple effect that can transform countless lives.

Allison Park Church
God Will Never Give You More Than You Can Handle

Allison Park Church

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 28, 2025 34:56


Is it true that God won't give you more than you can handle? Pastor Jeff explores this idea and teaches on what the Bible has to say about this topic. 

A Beautiful Day Devotional Podcast
September 26 2025 - Beautiful Day Devotional Podcast

A Beautiful Day Devotional Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 26, 2025 3:08


It is FRI-YAY! With a special shout-out from Pastor Jeff—and also the final day of our Inside Out series! It's been so special sharing God's Word and learning how He helps us navigate our emotions. Even when we face hard times or scary feelings, we don't have to stay afraid. Jesus has already overcome the hardest things in the world, and with Him, fear turns into trust. John 16:33 33 I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.

American Reformation
40 Years of Ministry: Lessons on Joy, Sabbath, and Reaching the Lost

American Reformation

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 24, 2025 56:18


In this episode of the Tim Ahlman Podcast, Tim sits down with Pastor Jeff Scheich, who is celebrating 40 years of ministry. Together, they dive into the power of the resurrection, the importance of sabbath rhythms, and how the church can reach those who feel distant from faith.Pastor Jeff shares stories from launching the innovative 2:11 worship experience at Christ Lincoln, his lessons on saying “no” in ministry, and the balance of joy, reverence, and discipleship in Lutheran worship.They also discuss:- The historical evidence for the resurrection- Why Sabbath is critical for pastors and leaders today- How churches can welcome the de-churched and spiritually curious- The tension between tradition and innovation in Lutheran worship- Healthy habits for life, ministry, and familyThis conversation is a refreshing reminder that Jesus is alive, the church is for everyone, and ministry can be filled with joy.The Balance of GrayFaith That Challenges. Conversations that Matter. Laughs included. Subscribe Now!Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify PodMatchPodMatch Automatically Matches Ideal Podcast Guests and Hosts For InterviewsSupport the showWatch Us On Youtube!

Conversations with Jeff Bucknam
Season 13 | Episode 1: The Reliability and Authority of Scripture with Dr. Mike Vanlaningham

Conversations with Jeff Bucknam

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 23, 2025 47:07


Everybody's got a story. This season, Pastor Jeff Bucknam is sitting down with guests to hear some of their journeys and to dig into big apologetics topics that matter for everyday faith. In this episode, Pastor Jeff talks with Dr. Mike Vanlaningham, elder at Harvest Bible Chapel, about the reliability and authority of Scripture—why we can trust the Bible and build our lives on it. Join the conversation and be encouraged by the evidence and the hope we have in God's Word. “Conversations with Jeff Bucknam” is a production of Harvest Bible Chapel. Executive Producer: Wesley Cassford Host: Pastor Jeff Bucknam Co-host: Pastor Tommy Creutz Guest: Dr. Mike Vanlaningham Sound design, mixing, and editing: Wesley Cassford Graphic Design: Wesley Cassford Social Media: Bryan Spahr Producer: Sherri Smith

Cowboy Junction Church Video
The Fruits Of Wisdom | Pastor Jeff Couture | Weekly Message

Cowboy Junction Church Video

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 23, 2025 53:16


Cowboy Junction Church Audio
The Fruits Of Wisdom | Pastor Jeff Couture | Weekly Message

Cowboy Junction Church Audio

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 23, 2025 53:15


Canyon Creek Christian Fellowship
September 21, 2025 - Pastor Jeff Edwards: Becoming the Person I Want to Be

Canyon Creek Christian Fellowship

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 23, 2025 41:33


Pastor Jeff Edwards spoke about our priorities. What would you say are your top priorities in life?  Would people around you agree that you are showing those priorities?  Authentic living means bringing what you say and what you show together.  The bible tells us that we have a superpower at our disposal to become the people we want to be. Jeff preached from Ephesians 2:1-10.

Living Hope Wesleyan
Pastor Jeff interviews Emily Robins; New Hope Church Niagara

Living Hope Wesleyan

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 23, 2025 46:52


https://newhopechurchniagara.com/leadershipIG @emilybruhier

A Beautiful Day Devotional Podcast
September 22 2025 - Beautiful Day Devotional Podcast

A Beautiful Day Devotional Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 22, 2025 2:27


This is our final week of the Inside Out series! Pastor Jeff will be sharing how God gives us the soft emotion of trust to overcome the hard emotion of fear. Jesus reminded us that without Him, we are all lost—like the sheep, the coin, or the son. But here's the good news: God never gives up on us! Isaiah 12:2 2 Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. The Lord, the Lord himself, is my strength and my defense[a]; He has become my salvation.

2 Cities Church Podcast
1 Corinthians 15:1-11: The resurrection causes radical life change./ Pastor Jeff Struecker

2 Cities Church Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 22, 2025 33:44


Big Idea: The resurrection causes radical life change.1 Corinthians 15:1-11I. Hope in Jesus's resurrection power. 1 Corinthians 15:1-4Now I want to make clear for you, brothers and sisters, the gospel I preached to you, which you received, on which you have taken your stand and by which you are being saved, if you hold to the message I preached to you—unless you believed in vain. For I passed on to you as most important what I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures,…II. Hold on to Jesus's resurrection promise.1 Corinthians 15:5-8…and that he appeared to Cephas, then to the Twelve. Then he appeared to over five hundred brothers and sisters at one time; most of them are still alive, but some have fallen asleep. Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles. Last of all, as to one born at the wrong time, he also appeared to me.III. Help others see how Jesus's resurrection has changed you.    1 Corinthians 15:9-11For I am the least of the apostles, not worthy to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace toward me was not in vain. On the contrary, I worked harder than any of them, yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me. Whether, then, it is I or they, so we proclaim and so you have believed.Next Steps: Believe: I need Jesus to resurrect my dead heart today.Become: I will let hope give me strength this week. Be Sent: I will let someone Jesus at work in me this week.Discussion Questions: What is the biggest change that the gospel has produced in you?When did your faith last help you to stand firm in the face of difficulties? Did the resurrection impact your life goals?How do a person's beliefs about eternal life influence their everyday actions?Why does Paul “work hard” for a promise that has already been given to him through Christ's resurrection?What is one thing you will work on this week to align your life with the promise of the resurrection? Pray for the opportunity to show someone the hope of your faith this week. 

Kitchen Table Theology
257 Applying the Bible: Living Out God's Word Daily

Kitchen Table Theology

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 21, 2025 19:30


Spiritual growth is not only about knowing Scripture. It is about living it. In this episode of Kitchen Table Theology, Pastor Jeff and Tiffany share how the Bible moves from the page into our everyday choices. Scripture is essential to our fellowship with God; We learn how to see its treasures as inexhaustible and what it means to be a doer of the Word.What We Discussed01:25 - Why Scripture Is EssentialThe Bible is described as a lamp, a guide, a weapon, and nourishment. Jeff emphasizes its power to teach, correct, and shape our lives (2 Timothy 3:16; Hebrews 4:12).05:01 - Use the Bible in Fellowship With GodScripture is the primary way God speaks to us, through conviction, encouragement, correction, and blessing. Psalm 19:7-11 highlights the richness of God's Word.07:20 - Regard the Bible's Treasures as InexhaustiblePastor Jeff encourages believers to see Scripture as endlessly rich, meeting our needs day by day, even moment by moment.09:05 - Acknowledge Your Spiritual NeedsBring your struggles, failures, and desires to God's Word, trusting it to minister to you in every circumstance.09:47 - Be a Doer of the WordHearing is not enough. We must act on what Scripture teaches, responding to warnings, promises, instructions, and commands.11:25 - C.S. Lewis on “Good Pretending”C.S. Lewis described “good pretending” as practicing who we already are in Christ.15:52 - Building a Fund of Doctrinal KnowledgeAs Believers, we must systematically grow in our understanding of biblical truth.17:06 - Returning Daily to ScriptureThe Bible nourishes our souls, protects us from deception, and provides wisdom. “May we increasingly give His Word a larger place in our lives and look to it daily for spiritual guidance and understanding.” - Pastor Jeff CranstonWe love your feedback! If you enjoyed this episode, leave us a review. If you have any questions or comments on today's episode, email me at pastorjeff@lowcountrycc.orgVisit my website https://www.jeffcranston.com and subscribe to my newsletter. Join me on Sunday mornings at LowCountry Community Church. Check in with us on Facebook or Instagram @pastorjeffcranstonRemember, the real power of theology is not only knowing it but applying it. Thanks for listening!

BRAVE Church
Taking Ground: Taking Ground Multiplies Opportunities

BRAVE Church

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 21, 2025 57:34


Have you ever wondered what true generosity could unlock in your life and community? Through powerful biblical insights and personal testimony, Pastor Jeff unveils how generosity isn't about obligation—it's about opportunity. Drawing from 2 Corinthians 9, he shares how giving with a cheerful heart multiplies God's harvest, deepens joy, and releases supernatural abundance. From feeding 5,000 with just five loaves to modern stories of miraculous provision, this message will transform your view of stewardship. Whether you're curious about taking your next faith step or seeking to impact more lives for Christ, discover how generous living opens doors you never thought possible. Don't miss this timely word on partnering with God's kingdom vision! Speaker: Jeff Schwarzentraub

Turning Point Church
04 - The Valley of the Shadow by Pastor Jeff Wickwire - Audio

Turning Point Church

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 21, 2025 46:44


09.21.2025 | The Voice of the Valleys | Part 4: The Valley of the Shadow | Pastor Jeff Wickwire Discover how the valleys of life become places of profound growth and comfort when we understand God's presence, protection, and guidance. Pastor Jeff Wickwire unpacks Psalm 23's timeless wisdom about navigating life's challenging seasons.

Harvest Bible Chapel
Jumping to Conclusions Ends in a Devastating Fall | Pastor Jeff Bucknam

Harvest Bible Chapel

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 21, 2025 54:02


Welcome to the weekly sermon podcast from Harvest Bible Chapel. This weekend, Pastor Jeff Bucknam continues our series through the Book of James with a message titled Jumping to Conclusions Ends in a Devastating Fall from James 1:19–26. Words matter. They reveal what's in our hearts and can build up or tear down the family of God. James calls us to be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger—because the righteousness of God is not produced by human outrage, but by hearts transformed by His implanted Word. As you listen, ask the Lord to help you not only hear the truth, but live it. Genuine faith doesn't stop at agreement; it acts. Let's join Pastor Jeff now. This podcast is a production of Harvest Bible Chapel in Chicago. Executive Producer: Flavius Herlo Speaker: Pastor Jeff Bucknam Sound design, mixing, and editing: Bryan Tripp Graphic Design: Wesley Cassford Social Media: Bryan Spahr Producer: Dave Putnam WE INVITE YOU TO CONNECT WITH US: • Website: www.harvestbible.org/ WE INVITE YOU TO FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA: • Instagram: @harvestbiblechapel • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/harvestbiblechapel/

Hope City Church
Community: Week 2 / Pastor Jeff Bowman

Hope City Church

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 21, 2025 33:44


Community: Week 2 / Pastor Jeff Bowman by Hope City Church

Hope City Church
Community: Week 3 / Pastor Jeff Bowman

Hope City Church

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 21, 2025 42:26


Community: Week 3 / Pastor Jeff Bowman by Hope City Church

All Peoples Church Podcast
Will You Count Up the Cost

All Peoples Church Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 21, 2025 41:34


Thank you for watching All Peoples Church live stream. Pastor Jeff shares a teaching on the real cost of following Jesus. Service from September 21, 2025. For more information, please visit our website, www.allpeopleschurch.us or find us on social media!

Authentic Church Orange County
STEWARDING GODLY RELATIONSHIPS | Pastor Jeff Peterson | September 21st 2025

Authentic Church Orange County

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 21, 2025 48:12


Pastor Jeff delivers a powerful message entitled, "STEWARDING YOUR FLAME"   Authentic Church is a Bible-based, Spirit-empowered, Presence-driven church in Orange County with the mission to Love God, Love People, and Live Authentic.   Our Vision is to Encounter God, Discover Community, and Fulfill God's call on our lives.   For service times and info, please visit us online or via our social media platforms: AuthenticOC.com   To stay up to date on all things Authentic, text the word "Authentic" to 94000   Subscribe to receive our latest messages!   #Sermon #AuthenticChurch #OrangeCountyChurch   We would be honored if you would like to support this ministry and help us continue to reach people with the authentic gospel... click here: https://pushpay.com/g/authenticoc   Love God. Love People. Live Authentic.   Stay Connected   Website: https://authenticoc.com/   Authentic Church Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthenticChurchOC/   Authentic Church Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authenticchurchoc/   Authentic Church YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWxskUerFuBNhLZI3wpqzlg

Parkwood Sermons
The Gospel in Jerusalem

Parkwood Sermons

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 21, 2025 39:16


This week, Pastor Jeff continues a series in the book of Acts named ACTS: The Mission of God is Our Mission. The next message in the series is based in Acts 3:1-26 and is entitled "The Gospel in Jerusalem." The main idea of the sermon is: The Jews of Jerusalem are called to repent and trust in Christ, who is the fulfillment of God's promise to them. ————————  Connect with Us: Website: parkwoodonline.org Facebook: facebook.com/parkwoodonline Instagram: instagram.com/parkwoodonline.org  Check out more resources and sermons online at: parkwoodresources.org

The Church At Bushland
Experiencing God: Communion - September 21, 2025

The Church At Bushland

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 21, 2025


Welcome to #SundaysatTCAB! Pastor Jeff Ponder will be leading us in the observance of the Lord's Supper today. Let's prepare our hearts and reflect on this table we get to sit at with Jesus. Oh how great is His love for us to sacrifice His life so that we can truly experience God! New to The Church at Bushland? Tell us a little about you and receive a personal note from Pastor Jeff. First Time Guest: https://www.thechurchatbushland.com/guestform?location=livestream How can we pray for you? Submit your prayer request here: https://www.thechurchatbushland.com/prayerrequest Subscribe to get the latest videos: https://www.youtube.com/c/TheChurchAtBushland We also have our newest channel, @TCABClips, with sermon and worship highlights and short content from Digging for the Truth. Subscribe, turn on notifications, and never miss an episode! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6VflV8HJUd-6vTX9CSJRKw Listen while you work, exercise, or whatever keeps you busy: Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/channel/the-church-at-bushland/id6442779332 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/077EsZwp6Y7pPhv7X8mXEY?si=893d09eeae9142d5 Support the online ministry at TCAB. Join the giving team today! https://www.thechurchatbushland.com/giving Download the TCAB App today! iOS - https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-church-at-bushland/id1495461805 Android - https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.kidunottech.culminate.tcab Connect with The Church at Bushland: Website | https://thechurchatbushland.com Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/thechurchatbushland/ Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/thechurchatbushland/

Harvest Bible Chapel Pittsburgh North Sermons - Harvest Bible Chapel Pittsburgh North

Introduction: Signs That You are Self-Deceived (Matthew 7:21-23) You profess the truth without being CHANGED BY THE TRUTH. (Matt 7:21) Romans 10:9 – Because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. You point to your works rather than CHRIST'S WORK. (Matt 7:22) Isaiah 64:6 – All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags; we all shrivel up like a leaf, and like the wind our sins sweep us away. You presume that you know Jesus but JESUS DOES NOT KNOW YOU. (Matt 7:23) Sermon Notes (PDF): BLANKHint: Highlight blanks above for answers! Small Group DiscussionRead Matthew 7:21-23What was your big take-away from this passage / message?How can you evaluate if you are self-deceived and lack self-awareness of who you are and whose you are?How has the truth of the gospel changed you? In what areas do you need to be further changed?What is the difference between knowing a lot about Jesus and knowing Jesus?Why do you love Jesus?BreakoutPray for one another. AUDIO TRANSCRIPT Please turn your Bibles to Matthew chapter 7.Matthew chapter 7.Have you ever met a person who thought they had a certain skillthat they actually didn't possess?Have you ever been that person?You were convinced that you had this talent, you had this ability.But then someone came along to burst your bubble,or you put yourself out there and you embarrassed yourself big time.I can think of no better example than this than American Idol.Who's watched American Idol at some point in their lives?I don't know about you, but I've never watched an entire season of American Idol.I always turn it off after the first round.Because what happens after the first round,all the terrible singers are sent home.And maybe this tells you something about me,but I love to watch those horrible auditions of those people who think they can sing,but they can't carry a tune in a bucket.They confidently stand before Paula Abdul, Randy Jackson, and Simon Cowellto claim that they are phenomenal singers.And then they belt out the most wretched noises imaginable.Today, I will sing Whitney Houston's "I Will Always Love You."And I will always love you.Thank you.You'll never know if that's my real singing voice or my fake singing voice.After giving it their all, these individuals are absolutely shocked at the judge's reactions.They weep as Paula Abdul lets them down gently.Their jaws are on the floor as Randy Jackson gives his patented "pfft" to know from me, dog.And they fight back in Simon Cowell when he says something horrible like,"That was absolutely dreadful."And as you watch it at home, you can't help but think to yourself,how do they not recognize that they sound horrible?How do they not realize that they are terrible singers?Do you know the answer to those questions?The answer is self-deception.Self-deception.They are clueless to who they actually are.They are lying to themselves.Their view of themselves has no basis in reality.They lack self-awareness.And it's so easy for you and I to sit in our couches and pass judgment on these individualsas their delusions go before our eyes.But never forget an important truth.You too can be self-deceived.You too can lack self-awareness.You may not truly understand who you are and whose you are.Your self-deception may be far worse than believing that you're a world-class vocalist.Your self-deception may have eternal consequences.What if you think you're a Christian but you're actually not?What if you confidently believe that you are a child of God but you're actually a son or daughterof the devil?What if you believe that you are heading to heavenwhile you're on the path to hell?We're in the final section of the Sermon on the Mount, the heart ready for judgment.It's been made abundantly clear that Jesus is not going to pull any punchesas he rounds out his most famous sermon.Two weeks ago, Pastor Jeff unpacked the really tough truth that the gate to everlasting life is what?Narrow. And few people go that way because it is hard.While the gate to never-ending punishment is wide, it is massive.And most people go that way because it is so easy.And last week we learned that there are so many false teachers pointing to the wide gate.And it's obvious who they are because of the fruit that they produce.Maybe you heard those messages and even agreed with those messagesbut you didn't internalize what was said.You didn't truly evaluate your heart to see if you're on the narrow path or the wide pathto see if you are falling for false teaching.Well this morning, Jesus is going to tighten the net even more.The walls are going to be closing in on you so that there's no more wiggle roomto escape what the Lord has to say about judgment.Matthew chapter 7 verses 21 through 23 contain the most chilling words in the entire Bible.And for me, there isn't a close second.Jesus says that many are self-deceived in this lifeand they will be shocked that they won't end up in heaven someday.I want to encourage you, please do not tune out and think,"Well, there's no way Jesus is talking about me so I can just kind of daydreamand plan out the rest of my week."No, tune in and ask yourself, "What if Jesus is talking about me?"What if I am self-deceived?What if I am lacking self-awareness of who I am and who's I am?So before we continue, let's go the Lord and ask for His help.I ask that you pray for me.Are we faithful in proclaiming God's Word?And I will pray for you that you are faithful to receive it.Father, we come to you and we ask that your spirit will bring clarity,that He would bring illumination, that He would bring conviction and challenge.Lord, in the past 13 years of preaching, I don't know if I ever felt more inadequateto proclaim a text than this one.But I thank you in advance that you will preach a much better sermonin people's hearts than I ever could with my mouth.Show up in a great mighty way, Lord.Come to seek and save the lost.And for the rest of us, Lord, help us to be blown away by your awesome love.And we ask all these things in Jesus' name, amen.Signs that you are self-deceived.Sign one, you profess the truth without being changed by the truth.You profess the truth without being changed by the truth.Let's read chapter 7 verse 21.This is the Lord Jesus speaking."Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven.But the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven."In this verse, Jesus talks about the here and now as well as the there and then.According to Jesus, what you say about who you are here and now may be proven to be wrongthere and then at the final judgment.What you profess to believe with your mouth here and now may be proven to not be a genuinereality in your heart there and then as you stand before Jesus.You can be confident here and now that heaven is in your future,but then be banned from heaven when that future finally arrives.You can call Jesus Lord, Lord, which means that you claim him as God.You can even claim Jesus as your God.You can say all the right things about Jesus, but still not be able to enter the kingdom of heaven.Isn't that terrifying?You may be thinking to yourself, "Taylor, how is that possible?"I thought it's all just about believing and confessing.That's it.Well, the combination of belief and confession is absolutely essential and you cannot be savedwithout it.Paul backs this up in Romans 10, 9, "If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lordand believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved."What a glorious truth that you should cherish, memorize, and hold on to.But unfortunately, so many people misuse and abuse that verse.Well, as long as you pray the prayer, as long as you say the right words, you're good to go.God has stamped your one-way ticket to heaven.Doesn't really matter what you do or how you live from now on.Once saved, always saved.But people who say that miss a key word in this verse, heart.Believe in your heart.This belief in Christ must take root at the deepest level of who you are.This belief in Christ must take over every single aspect of your life.True belief isn't a mere acknowledgement of the facts.It is an act of faith that transforms you from the inside out.Some who say, "Lord, Lord will enter the kingdom of heaven because they were transformed by theirbelief." Many others who say, "Lord, Lord will not enter the kingdom of heaven because they werenever transformed by their belief." It is possible to profess the truth without being changed by thetruth. And if you have not been changed by the truth of the gospel, then let me tell you,you have not truly believed in the truth of the gospel.So how can you tell if you have been changed by the truth or not?It's a very simple test according to Jesus. He says, "You don't just say, 'Lord, Lord,' you dothe will of your Father who is in heaven. You say and you do."Last week, Pastor Jeff said that false teachers are revealed by their words and their actions.The same is true for followers of Christ. Genuine faith is proven by believing and confessing theright things, but that can't be the only standard according to our Lord. Genuine faith is also provenby doing the right things. Doing the will of your Father in heaven means that you obeyHis word. You have an internal desire to do what God says, and then you act on that desire.You act on what you say you believe. You say that you should passionately pursue after the Lordand His word and in prayer. So you do passionately pursue after the Lord in word, in His wordand in prayer. You say that you should daily repent and turn from your sin, so you do dailyrepent and turn from your sin. You say that you should share your faith more and make disciples,so you do share your faith more and make disciples. What you say carries no weightif it doesn't line up with what you do.I want to make something crystal clear to avoid being misunderstood.You are not saved by what you do. You are not saved by what you do, but what you do revealsif you are saved or not. What you do reveals if you are saved or not.You know, almost 20 years ago, I took the written test to get my learner's permit.I studied that PA Driver's Manual inside and out. I knew all the right answers about driving,and I could regurgitate them on a test. Let me ask you, did passing that 18 question permit testmake me a driver? No. For a number of years, I went to seminary. I went to a number of classes,read a countless number of books, listened to so many lectures, and I learned about what a pastorshould be, what a pastor should do. In 2020, I was given my Master of Divinity. Let me ask you,did receiving that piece of paper in the mail make me a pastor? Not one bit. You can get 100%on your permit test and still not be able to enter a car and drive it with any level of competency.You can get the best theological training in the world and still not be able to enter into a churchand be its pastor. You can ace a Bible Pop quiz and still not enter the kingdom of heaven.Do not be deceived and think that you're safe and sound just because you grew up in a Christianfamily and went to church when you were younger. Do not be deceived and think that you're safe andsound just because you fill a seat on Sunday mornings. It is not enough just to have thecorrect facts stored in your brain. The correct facts must change who you are.Signs that you are self-deceived. Sign number two, you point to your works rather than Christ's work.You point to your works rather than Christ's work.Let's read verse 22. On that day, many will say to me, "Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your nameand cast out demons in your name and do many mighty works in your name?"Once again, Jesus is taking us into the future. He fasts forward the movie of life to show uswhat the final judgment will look like. As we've already seen, some who say, "Lord, Lord, willenter the kingdom of heaven." But many others who say, "Lord, Lord, will not enter the kingdom ofheaven." And that second group is the focus of this verse. In verse 21, "Lord, Lord was a professionof belief, but in verse 22 it is used as a desperate plea." This is a Hail Mary pass. It is a one lasteffort to avoid judgment. This is an attempt to convince Jesus that a mistake has been made.Lord Jesus, I know you have a lot of people to see and judge today. It makes sense that a fewpeople are going to fall through the cracks and a few mistakes are going to be made. Let me remindyou of who I am. Let me remind you of all the things I've done for you. Here's my resume.It's a really impressive resume, isn't it? Casting out demons,prophesying, doing many mighty works in miracles. You may look at this list and think,"How could someone with this resume not enter the kingdom of heaven? How could someone like thisnot be saved?" Well, there are three possible explanations that lead to the same sad result.Option number one, these mighty works are done by the power of the evil one.These mighty works are done by the power of the evil one.Pastor Jeff talked about this in depth last week, but Instagram, Facebook, YouTube,Christian TV stations are filled with corrupt and dishonest pastors who claim to proclaim the wordof God and do many mighty miracles in the name of Christ. They look really great with their threepea suits, their expensive sneakers, their luxurious jets and fancy cars, but they are nothing butfrauds and workers of Satan. They are not in ministry for you. They are not in ministry for Jesus.They are in ministry for themselves. They are after power, money and public adoration.At the very least, they operate in their own power, or at the very worst, they operate by the power ofSatan himself. And you may be thinking, "Taylor, you seem to be a bit too tough on these guys."Well, Pastor Jeff, I'm simply applying your message from last week. I'm evaluating the fruitsthat these false teachers produce. Could it be that you don't like what I'm saying because youare being fooled? Because you are being led astray. Could it be that you're mistaking their bad fruitfor good fruit? Option number two, these people are making false claims.Have you ever interviewed someone who patted out their resume with accomplishments they didn'tactually accomplish, with awards they didn't actually win? What leads a person to lie aboutthings they're so easily fact-checked in 2025? Once again, the answer is self-deception.There's no way I'll get caught. I can get away with it. They try to puff out theirchest and make themselves look better than they actually are. They polish their imaginary trophies.Is it a good idea to lie to your potential employer? Let me ask that again so you can wakeup a bit. Is it a good idea to lie to your potential employer? Is it a good idea to lieto Jesus Christ? Maybe you don't worry about where you'll end up in eternity because you have a highopinion of your ability to sweet talk your way into things or sweet talk your way out of things.I spoke into a lot of guys in the past that, "Yeah, I'm not worried about the afterlife.God and I will have a conversation at the pearly gates and he'll see why I should be in there.I'll be just fine." That is a horrible plan. That plan is foolishness. You cannot smooth talk Jesus.He knows everything and he sees everything. He knows what you've done and he knows what you haven'tdone. He sees right through your flimsy resume of fake accomplishments. Third option, God allowsphony believers to accomplish amazing things for his kingdom and glory. God allows phony believersto accomplish amazing things for his glory and kingdom. Let me just think about the storylineof Scripture and how this plays out in the Old Testament and the New Testament. God put hisown words in the mouth of a dirty donkey and then in the mouth of a wicked false prophet.The high priest Caiaphas who hated and opposed Jesus unintentionally prophesied that Jesus woulddie for the nation. In Philippians, the apostle Paul rejoices in the truth that men with horriblemotivations can truly proclaim the good news of Jesus. Let's step away from biblicalillustrations for a second and hit a bit closer to home. You can take the preaching class atharvest and deliver a killer sermon while you are engaging in a secret affair that you have no plansto confess or end. You can teach kids back at Harvest Academy while you mistreat your ownchildren at home. You can go on mission trips overseas and help a ton of people over therewhile you defraud and deceive your clients over here. You can be the number one most dependablevolunteer at harvest while being the most loyal customer at your local liquor store.God can use whoever he wants, whenever he wants to accomplish whatever he wants.God can use those who are walking in holiness and he can use those who are not walking in holiness.God can use those who truly belong to him as well as those who don't truly belong to him.Listen, you can keep yourself busy with religious activities while you destroy yourself behindclosed doors and travel down the highway to hell. Serving your church, serving your community aregood and godly activities, but those good and godly activities cannot save you. Only Jesus Christcan save you. Rip up your religious resume because I promise you it is not as good as you think itis. Even your best efforts are stained by sin, pride, and mixed motivations.Isaiah gives us a reality check about this when he says all of our righteous acts are like filthyrags. What are filthy rags good for? What's the answer? Nothing. Filthy rags should be thrown away.I assume that some of you will be going to a restaurant after church today with family andfriends. Imagine trying to pay the bill with garbage that you found in the dumpster outside therestaurant. Would your server and the manager be very pleased with you? Why? Because you're offeringthem worthless garbage. Trying to hand God your religious resumes that you can be saved is likehanding him trash and expecting that he'll be impressed. At this point, you may be kind ofconfused. Taylor, you spent a long time talking about the importance of doing the right things,but now you're kind of acting like doing the right things. Isn't that important?Well, again, I want to emphasize that good works must flow out of your salvation,but good works cannot contribute to your salvation, even a tiny bit. Salvation is 100%the work of God and 0% you. Some of you are operating as if you're responsible for half.25%, 5%, 2%, even 1% is too much. It's all of Jesus Christ.Listen, your resume stinks while Christ's resume soars. Your resume is imperfect whileChrist's resume is perfect. You are a loser on your own while Christ is a winner.But the good news is you can share in his victory by letting go of what you have to offerby grabbing a hold of what he has to offer. Jesus Christ lived the perfect life you could never live.He succeeded in every single way that you have failed. He then died the death that you deserve to die.He rose again to give you the new life that you can never work your way towards. Do not be deceivedand rely on your own goodness and track record. Do not rest your eternal destiny on yourself.Rest in Christ's work, not your own. Place your trust in Christ alone becauseHe alone can give you what you need, both now and forever.Signs that you are self-deceived, final sign, and this is the hardest one of them all.You presume that you know Jesus, but Jesus does not know you.You presume that you know Jesus, but Jesus does not know you.So after the religious resume has been read, Jesus gives the most devastating response.And then I will declare to them, I never knew you.Depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.Can you imagine anything more terrifying than hearing that from the most important personin existence? Get away from me. I want nothing to do with you.You are nothing but an unrepentant lawbreaker and evildoer.Does that response shock you? You may be thinking, but how could Jesus say something so harsh?Isn't He the definition of love and forgiveness?Well, what's the reason He gives in the text? You are acting like you know me, but I don't know you.You know, as a preacher, I enjoy listening to a lot of preachers. I'm somewhat of a pastoral nerd.I follow a lot of pastors on social media. I have a list of my favorites that I've listened to some for decades.And I learn about their personal lives. I learn about their ministries and their messages and their books,and it can really feel like I know them. But do I actually know them?I know a lot about them, but I don't know them. There is no relationship. There is no back andforth. There is no give or take. It's just a one-sided admiration from afar.Imagine I drive across the country to the house of my favorite online preacher.I show up on his doorstop at 10 o'clock at night and I knock on his door,keep ringing the doorbell. Eventually, his poor preacher shuffles the door and his bathrobe and his slippers, the toothbrush in hand.As soon as he opens the door, I launch into, "Hey, man, it's Taylor. I got a lot of problems right now.I really need your advice. Can I come in and chat?" How do you think he's going to respond?Dude, you're acting like you know me, but I don't know you at all. You are a total stranger.My wife and kids are at home and they're sleeping. I'm not just going to invite you in. You need to leave right now.Is that an appropriate response? Yes, that's how he should respond. I should be turned away from him in that moment.Let's change up the scenario a bit. At 10 o'clock tonight, I show up on Pastor Jeff's doorstep.Knock on the door, ring the doorbell. He opens it and I give him the same exact spiel.Will there be a different outcome? Will there be a different response? Why?Because I don't just listen to Pastor Jeff from afar. I don't watch him on a screen.We've been close friends for 13 years and he is my pastor.I know Pastor Jeff and Jeff knows me. I don't just know a lot about him.Do you know a lot about Jesus or do you know Jesus?Does Jesus consider you a stranger or does he know you as his close friend,his faithful follower, his blood-bought brother or sister?Does he really actually know you?Maybe you're thinking to yourself, "Well, how can I know if I know Jesus and he knows me?What's the test of that?" Well, years ago, I heard a pastor say something in a sermon thatnever forgot sense. He said, "You can tell a lot about a person by how they respond to a simplequestion. Why do you love Jesus? Why do you love Jesus?"He said, "You'd be shocked by how many people have no idea how to answer that question."Because their intellectual knowledge of Jesus has not created affection for Jesus.Friends, why do you love Jesus? If you can't think of anything, that's a huge problemand you shouldn't ignore it. Imagine pulling me aside for a service and saying, "Taylor,what do you love about your wife?" And I respond, "What does that tell you? I don't have a personaland in-depth knowledge of my wife. I don't love her like I presume to. I should say, "Hey,do you have a couple of days because my list is very, very long. There's not just one thing aboutmy wife that I love. There's a countless number of them. My wife has my heart, so my list of whyI love her is very long. But how much longer should your list be in my list be when it comes to JesusChrist and why we love Him? Life is too short to plumb the depths of His awesomeness. Why do youlove Jesus? I love Jesus because He died for me when I wanted nothing to do with Him. I loveJesus because He loves me no matter what I do. I love Jesus because He is not ashamed to call meHis brother despite all the ways that I fail Him. I love Jesus because He cares about everythingthat I go through. And He sympathizes with all of my weaknesses. I love Jesus because right nowHe is interceding for me in heaven before the Father. I love Jesus because all the promises ofScripture find their yes in Amen in Him. I love Jesus because He is always with me and He willnever forsake me even to the very end. I could keep going and going and going. Could you?How can you say that you love Jesus if you don't even know why you love Him?How can you expect that you'll worship Jesus for all of eternity if you can't think of a singlereason to worship Him right now? Do not be deceived. Heaven is not a place for fans and admirers ofJesus. Heaven is a place for those who love Christ with a full heart. If you don't know Jesusbefore your life comes to an end, Jesus will deny knowing you in the next.For years, I used to laugh at the nickname that the Apostle John gave himselfin his own Gospels. Does anyone know what his nickname he gave himself was? The disciple whomJesus, what? Really, John? Ask him the nickname you gave yourself, the one whom Jesus loved.And for years, I thought John was saying, "Yeah, you know what? I was Jesus' favorite.Peter may be the most popular, but what can I say? Jesus loves me more."Recently, I've come to the realization that's not at all what John had in mind. John is claiminghis identity by saying, "I am the one whom Jesus loved." He was saying the love of Jesuswas the most important thing about him. It doesn't even matter what my name is. What matters is thatJesus loves me. The love of Jesus was the foundation of who he was and the motivation for all that hedid. How do you identify yourself? Do you primarily identify yourself as someone who has all the rightanswers and says all the right things? Do you identify yourself as a good person who has animpressive religious resume of good works? Do you identify yourself as someone who knows a lotabout Jesus? All of those identities are deceptive and destructive. All of those identities willlead you to everlasting destruction. If those are your identities, you are self-deceived. You lackself-awareness. I beg you to reject those identities and grab ahold of the love of Jesus Christ.Embrace who he is and what he wants to give you. Give your life to him and Christ will become yourlife. Give your identity to him and Christ will become your identity. You can be known as the onewhom Jesus loves by bowing the knee to him in unending submission. Make the love of Jesus Christthe foundation of who you are and the motivation for all that you do.It's so easy to lose sight of these spiritual realities in a physical world, isn't it?In His infinite grace, God has chosen to give us a physical picture of His love in the Lord's Supper.As we come to this meal together, we are graphically reminded of how Christ has shown His lovefor us. He took our place on the cross. He died for us and He took upon Himself the wraththat you and I deserve. Our worship leaders and communion servers can now make their way forward.You don't need to be a member of Harvest Bible Chapel to take part in communion,but you do need to be a member of the family of God.Communion is only for those who know Christ and are known by Christ.If you want to know Jesus as your Lord and Savior, we're going to have two individuals back in guestreception, Pastor Jeff and Lexie Cole. They would love to talk and pray with you.And please just look at me for a minute. Please do not pass up this opportunity.The Bible says that today is the day of salvation. Tomorrow is not a great day for salvation.Next week is not a great time for salvation. When it's more convenient, it's not a great time forsalvation. Today is a great day for salvation. Jesus is commanding you to know Him today,to love Him today, to trust in Him today. So please push aside your pride, push aside anyembarrassment you may feel. And go talk to Pastor Jeff and Lexie in the back. They would love topray for you and point you to Jesus and what next steps with Him looks like.

Turning Point Church
06 - The Patriarchs by Pastor Jeff Wickwire - Audio

Turning Point Church

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 17, 2025 50:07


09.17.2025 | Genesis from 30,000 Feet | Part 6: The Patriarchs | Pastor Jeff Wickwire Dive into the incredible stories of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob - the patriarchs who shaped our faith! Pastor Jeff Wickwire unpacks how God transformed these imperfect men into pillars of faith, showing us that even our struggles can become stepping stones to destiny. Discover how Abraham's journey from idolatry to intimacy with God mirrors our own path to purpose. Don't miss this powerful message about faith, transformation, and God's unwavering promises!

podcasts – Apologia Radio – Christian Podcast and TV Show
Charlie Kirk Has Died - Pray With Me

podcasts – Apologia Radio – Christian Podcast and TV Show

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 10, 2025 22:32


Charlie Kirk has died. Pastor Jeff does an emergency broadcast to speak about the shooting and death of Charlie Kirk and to pray for his family.