Podcasts about Pharisees

Click here for the DRB Daily Sign Up form! TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: 2 Samuel 3 , 1 Chronicles 12, Matthew 15 Click HERE to give! One Year Bible Podcast: Join Hunter and Heather Barnes on the Daily Radio Bible, a daily Bible‑in‑a‑year podcast with 20‑minute Scripture readings, Christ‑centered devotion, and guided prayer.This daily Bible reading and devotional invites you to live as a citizen of Jesus' kingdom, reconciled, renewed, and deeply loved. TODAY'S EPISODE: Welcome to the April 28th episode of Daily Radio Bible. Join Hunter, your Bible reading coach, as we journey through second Samuel, first Chronicles, and Matthew. Today, we witness the rise of David amid conflict, explore the loyalty and strength of his supporters, and listen as Jesus challenges tradition, faith, and humility in dramatic encounters with religious leaders and a desperate Gentile woman. Through scripture, reflection, and prayer, we are invited to discover faith that overcomes barriers and to remember that, above all, we are dearly loved. Let's get started. TODAY'S DEVOTION: A group of Pharisees and a solitary Gentile woman come to Jesus, and at first, it seems as if both are offended by him. The Pharisees certainly are—Hunter notes how Peter even says to Jesus, "Don't you realize you offended the Pharisees by what you just said?" Jesus has criticized their traditions, called them hypocrites, blind guides, and so they walk away offended, convinced Jesus isn't measuring up to their standards of holiness, still clinging to their way of interpreting Scripture and tradition. But the Gentile woman, though she seemingly has even more to take offense at—after all, Jesus has appeared to compare her to a dog—does not take offense. Instead, Hunter draws out the contrast: while the Pharisees approach Jesus in reliance on their own righteousness, seeking to justify themselves, the woman comes in humility, in desperate need, and in faith for the sake of her daughter, ready to worship Jesus. Even as an outsider, a Gentile, Hunter points out, she calls him Lord and Son of David. Unlike the religious insiders, this woman sees and believes in what the Pharisees cannot. She leaves knowing she is dear to God—not because she lived up to some prescribed way or standard, but because she came in faith. She leaves with a full heart and a daughter delivered. This woman's faith wins Jesus' commendation. Out of her trust in God's love comes healing, deliverance, and restoration. Today, we are invited to join her—trusting that we, too, are dear to God, loved by him, and that from his love will flow the healing, deliverance, and fullness of life that are ours in Christ. That's the prayer Hunter has for his own soul, for his family, and for all of us. May we lay down self-righteousness, self-justification, tradition clung to for its own sake, and come instead with open, humble faith. May we know we are loved and find in God all we truly need. May it be so. TODAY'S PRAYERS: Lord God Almighty and everlasting father you have brought us in safety to this new day preserve us with your Mighty power that we might not fall into sin or be overcome by adversity. And in all we do, direct us to the fulfilling of your purpose  through Jesus Christ Our Lord amen.   Oh God you have made of one blood all the peoples of the earth and sent your blessed son to preach peace to those who are far and those who are near. Grant that people everywhere may seek after you, and find you. Bring the nations into your fold, pour out your Spirit on all flesh, and hasten the coming of your kingdom through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.   And now Lord,  make me an instrument of your peace.  Where there is hatred let me sow love. Where there is injury, pardon.  Where there is doubt, faith. Where there is despair, hope.  Where there is darkness, light.  And where there is sadness,  Joy.  Oh Lord grant that I might not seek to be consoled as to console. To be understood as to understand, to be loved as to love.  For it is in the giving that we receive, in the pardoning that we are pardoned, it is in the dying that we are born unto eternal life.  Amen And now as our Lord has taught us we are bold to pray... Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our tresspasses as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not unto temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the Kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. Loving God, we give you thanks for restoring us in your image. And nourishing us with spiritual food, now send us forth as forgiven people, healed and renewed, that we may proclaim your love to the world, and continue in the risen life of Christ.  Amen.  OUR WEBSITE: www.dailyradiobible.com We are reading through the New Living Translation.   Leave us a voicemail HERE: https://www.speakpipe.com/dailyradiobible Subscribe to us at YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Dailyradiobible/featured OTHER PODCASTS: Listen with Apple Podcast DAILY BIBLE FOR KIDS DAILY PSALMS DAILY PROVERBS DAILY LECTIONARY DAILY CHRONOLOGICAL  

Welcome to Day 2849 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom. Day 2849 – “Beholds He Comes!”  based on Zechariah 9:9 Putnam Church Message – 03/29/2026 Luke's Account of the Good News – “Behold He Comes!”   Last week, we continued our study of the ministry of Jesus Christ with a message titled “There is Always Hope!”  We learned that the heart of discipleship is: Where Jesus is, hopelessness is never final. Today, we are switching from our study of Luke for two weeks to focus on Palm Sunday and Resurrection Sunday. Today's message is: “Behold He Comes!” covers the entire Passion Week, and our launching point today is Zechariah 9:9:   Zion's Coming King 9 Rejoice, O people of Zion![a] Shout in triumph, O people of Jerusalem! Look, your king is coming to you. He is righteous and victorious,[b] yet he is humble, riding on a donkey— riding on a donkey's colt.   Opening Prayer Lord Jesus, as we gather around Your Word, quiet our hearts and open our eyes. Help us to see more than a parade, more than a cross, more than an empty tomb. Help us to see You as You truly are: the promised King, the suffering Savior, and the risen Lord. Take the familiar story and make it fresh again. Speak to the weary, awaken the distracted, convict the proud, comfort the grieving, and call all of us to follow You more fully. In Your holy name we pray. Amen. Introduction Over the next two weeks, we step away briefly from Luke for a special journey—from Palm Sunday to Easter/Resurrection Sunday, from the shouts of “Hosanna!” to the cry of “It is finished,” and then to the glorious announcement, “He is not here; He is risen!” The title of this message is “Behold He Comes!” That is really the heartbeat of Passion Week. Behold, He comes into Jerusalem. Behold, He comes to the temple. Behold, He comes to the table with His disciples. Behold, He comes into Gethsemane. Behold, He comes before Pilate. Behold, He comes to the cross. Behold, He comes out of the grave. The four Gospels—Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John—tell this story in harmony, though each gives us a different camera angle. Matthew highlights prophecy fulfilled. Mark emphasizes the movement and urgency of the King's mission. Luke gives us the tears of Jesus and the tragedy of a city that did not recognize its moment of visitation. John reminds us that many in the crowd were stirred because Jesus had raised Lazarus, and now excitement was running through Jerusalem like wildfire. But Palm Sunday is not just a happy parade. It is the beginning of holy collision. Hope and misunderstanding meet on the same street. Praise and rejection are only days apart. The palms wave on Sunday, but the cross stands on Friday. And yet through it all, one truth remains: Jesus is not swept along by events. He comes deliberately. He comes knowingly. He comes lovingly. He comes for us. Main Point 1: He Comes as the Promised King When Jesus approached Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives near Bethphage and Bethany, He sent disciples to bring a donkey and its colt. This was not accidental. This was not random transportation. This was revelation. Matthew 21 points us directly to Zechariah 9:9 “Look, your King is coming to you. He is righteous and victorious, yet he is humble, riding on a donkey.” Now, in the ancient world, kings often arrived in one of two ways. If they came on a war horse, they came in conquest. If they came on a donkey, they came in peace. Jesus is King, yes—but not the kind of king the crowds fully expected. The Jews wanted a throne. -> Jesus came with humility. The Jews wanted Rome overthrown. -> Jesus came to overthrow sin and death. The Jews wanted political rescue. -> Jesus came for eternal redemption. Can you picture the scene? The road is dusty. Cloaks are spread down like a makeshift royal carpet. Branches are cut and waved. Psalm 118 is rising from the crowd: “Blessings on the one who comes in the name of the Lord!” And John tells us specifically that these were palm branches—symbols of joy, victory, and national hope. Similar to us waving an American flag during a parade. Expanded Narrative For first-century Jews, Jerusalem was not merely a city. It was the city of promise, the city of David, the city of the temple. And when Jesus comes riding down the slope of the Mount of Olives, every prophetic nerve in Israel starts to tremble. The prophets had spoken. The covenant had promised. The generations had waited. -> And now Behold He Comes! But notice the manner of His coming. There is no sword in His hand. No army behind Him. No chariot rumbling over stone. Only a borrowed animal, willing disciples, and a crowd that understands just enough to cheer—but not enough yet to surrender. That still happens today, doesn't it? People are often happy to celebrate Jesus when they think He will fit their expectations. We welcome Him when He seems useful to our plans. We praise Him when the blessings are flowing. But when He comes humbly, when He confronts us, when He does not serve our agenda, we do not always know what to do with Him. Illustration It is a little like someone expecting the President to arrive in a black limousine with security and flashing lights—but instead he shows up alone, in plain clothes, and sits down at the table to listen. Some would miss the significance because they expected power to look louder. Jesus comes with authority, but it is wrapped in humility. Object Lesson Hold up a gold-looking crown in one hand and a simple rope halter or small wooden yoke in the other. Say: “Which one looks more like a king? Most of us would choose the crown. But Palm Sunday tells us that God's King often comes in a form we do not expect. The crown is real—but the path to it runs through humility.” Related Scriptures Genesis 49:10–11 hints at kingship tied to the colt. Psalm 118:25–26 gives us the language of “Hosanna” and blessing. Zechariah 9:9 declares the humble King. Philippians 2:6–8 tells us Christ humbled Himself. Summary of Main Point 1 Palm Sunday announces that Jesus is not merely a teacher entering a city. He is the long-awaited King entering His rightful place. But He comes with humility, peace, and purpose. He does not come to match human expectations; He comes to fulfill divine promises. The question for us is not, “Will we admire this King?” but “Will we receive Him on His terms?” Main Point 2: He Comes and Sees What Others Cannot See Luke gives us one of the most moving moments in the triumphal entry. While the crowd rejoices, Jesus weeps over Jerusalem. Luke 19:41 says, “But as he came closer to Jerusalem and saw the city ahead, he began to weep.” Think about that. The crowd is shouting. The disciples are praising God for the miracles they have seen. The Pharisees are telling Jesus to quiet the people. And in the middle of all that noise—Jesus is crying. Why? Because He sees what they do not see. They see a parade. -> He sees a city on the brink of judgment. They see excitement. -> He sees hardened hearts. They see what they want Him to do. -> He sees what He must do. John tells us that many in the crowd were stirred because of the raising of Lazarus. That miracle had electrified public imagination. “If He can call a dead man out of the grave after four days, surely, He can take Jerusalem! Surely, He can establish the kingdom now!” But Jesus knows that many voices shouting “Hosanna” do not yet understand holiness, repentance, surrender, or the cost of redemption.   Expanded Narrative Jerusalem had a history. It was the city of priests, sacrifice, pilgrimage, Scripture, memory, and hope. To an ancient Israelite, it was the place where heaven and earth seemed to meet. Yet it had also become a place where religious familiarity could hide spiritual...

Questions about why the Sadducees and Pharisees wanted to kill Jesus and why God doesn't say anything when we pray to him.   Why did the Sadducees and Pharisees want to kill Jesus? Why doesn't God say anything when we pray to him?

CLICK HERE FOR VIDEO to this reflectionGOSPEL: John 10:1-10Jesus said: "Amen, amen, I say to you, whoever does not enter a sheepfold through the gate but climbs over elsewhere is a thief and a robber. But whoever enters through the gate is the shepherd of the sheep. The gatekeeper opens it for him, and the sheep hear his voice, as the shepherd calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. When he has driven out all his own, he walks ahead of them, and the sheep follow him, because they recognize his voice. But they will not follow a stranger; they will run away from him, because they do not recognize the voice of strangers." Although Jesus used this figure of speech, the Pharisees did not realize what he was trying to tell them.So Jesus said again, "Amen, amen, I say to you, I am the gate for the sheep. All who came before me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not listen to them. I am the gate. Whoever enters through me will be saved, and will come in and go out and find pasture. A thief comes only to steal and slaughter and destroy; I came so that they might have life and have it more abundantly."

Read Online“When he has driven out all his own, he walks ahead of them, and the sheep follow him, because they recognize his voice. But they will not follow a stranger; they will run away from him, because they do not recognize the voice of strangers.” John 10:4–5Young children are often frightened by strangers. Infants, for example, form a strong bond with their mothers who feed them, hold them close, talk to them, and lavish love upon them. It often happens that when other family members, such as grandparents or even the father, attempt to hold the child, tears emerge until the child is placed once again in the familiar and safe arms of his or her mother.An infant's reaction to strangers can teach us much about today's Gospel on Jesus, the Good Shepherd. Like an infant, sheep become familiar with the voice and presence of their shepherd. The shepherd lives with the sheep night and day. He calls to them, speaks to them, keeps them safe, and leads them to green pastures and water. If a stranger were to call to them, they would not listen, similar to how an infant reacts to a stranger.Jesus' teaching is in response to the criticism He received from the Pharisees after He healed a man born blind. After healing the man, Jesus said, “I came into this world for judgment, so that those who do not see might see, and those who do see might become blind” (John 9:39). When the Pharisees heard Jesus say that, they inquired whether He was suggesting that they were blind, to which Jesus replied, “If you were blind, you would have no sin; but now you are saying, ‘We see,' so your sin remains” (John 9:41).An infant's unfamiliarity with a stranger is instinctive and innocent, yet it teaches us about the deeper spiritual reality Jesus describes. Just as sheep recognize the voice of their shepherd and follow him because they trust in his care, so too does a soul attuned to God respond to His voice. In contrast, the Pharisees, who prided themselves on their religious knowledge, failed to recognize Jesus as the true Shepherd. This failure was not innocent ignorance; it was willful blindness rooted in their rejection of His divine mission. The healed blind man perceived Jesus' voice with the simplicity of faith, while the Pharisees, claiming to ‘see' with their own wisdom, remained in sin because they refused to hear and follow the voice of the Good Shepherd.The Pharisees saw Jesus as a stranger to their religious beliefs and practices. They labeled Him an imposter. Unlike the innocent reaction of an infant or the natural response of sheep, the Pharisees' unfamiliarity with Jesus was a sin stemming from pride. It was a blindness of their own making that closed their hearts to the comforting and supernaturally familiar voice of God. To recognize Jesus' voice is to respond to the call of grace, trust in His teachings, and follow into the fullness of life He offers. Only by humbly admitting our need for His guidance can we, like the sheep, allow Him to lead us to green pastures and salvation.Reflect today on the fact that God calls out to you day and night. Do you recognize His voice? Or do you, like the Pharisees, turn away from Him? Following the Good Shepherd begins with an intimate familiarity with His divine presence in our lives. We must become as familiar with Him as an infant is with its mother or as sheep are with their faithful shepherd. Failure to recognize the Good Shepherd's voice leaves us lost and unable to care for ourselves. Jesus desires to lead us, care for us, and bring us to the abundant pastures of new life. Become familiar with Him and listen to His voice alone, and like the blind man, you will begin to see in ways you never have before, through the eyes of faith.Jesus, my Good Shepherd, You call to me day and night, but so often I fail to hear and respond to Your gentle voice. Please free me from blindness caused by my own sin so that I can humbly turn to You and follow Your consoling and familiar voice. Jesus, my Good Shepherd, I trust in You.Image: Good Shepherd  by Lawrence OP, license CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.Source: Free RSS feed from catholic-daily-reflections.com — Copyright © 2026 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. This content is provided solely for personal, non-commercial use. Redistribution, republication, or commercial use — including use within apps with advertising —

John 1:22-28Matt's book, The Lightning-Fast Field Guide to the Bible is available NOW! - here's a link that gets TMBH a little kickback: https://amzn.to/4pEYSS9Thanks to everyone who supports TMBH at patreon.com/thetmbhpodcastYou're the reason we can all do this together!Discuss the episode hereMusic by Jeff Foote

Read OnlineJesus said to the crowds: “No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draw him, and I will raise him on the last day.” John 6:44In today's Gospel, Jesus continues His conversation with the crowd who sought Him out after performing the miracle of the multiplication of the loaves and fishes. As the conversation continues, Jesus deepens His clarity about His relationship with the Father, His divine identity, the Father's action in our lives, and the gift of Himself as the Bread of Life.The passage above reveals an essential spiritual principle we must understand as we work to strengthen our relationship with God: Faith is a response to the Father's call, not something we initiate on our own. This principle is crucial because faith is not primarily a resolution we make to grow closer to God; rather, it begins as a resolution from the Father in Heaven Who draws us to Himself by drawing us to His Son, Jesus, especially in the Eucharist.Practically speaking, this principle must guide our prayer lives. Though it's good to make a conscious effort to pray every day, to meditate on the Scriptures, recite devotions, and attend Mass as often as possible, we must always see those efforts as a response to God's invitation rather than our own good idea. It's a subtle, though important, distinction.To illustrate, consider the Gospel story of the contrasting prayer of the Pharisee and the tax collector in Luke 18:9–14. In that parable, the Pharisee offered many prayers each day and fasted regularly, but his prayers went unheard and his fasting was unfruitful. Why? Because his actions were not initiated by God but were works of his own doing. In contrast, the tax collector, aware of his sin and need for God's mercy, humbled himself and prayed, “O God, be merciful to me a sinner.” That prayer was beautiful and fruitful because it was a response to God Who revealed his sin to him and called him to repent, which he did.Today's Gospel lesson comes to us within the context of Jesus' teaching on the Eucharist. Therefore, we must especially apply His opening words to the way we participate in the Mass. Our choice to attend Mass is not something we do as a favor to God. Instead, our participation in the Mass must be a response to the Father Who offers us the Body and Blood, Soul and Divinity of Jesus, His Son, as the spiritual food we need in order to attain everlasting life. Participation in the Mass is God's gift to us, and our response must be authentic prayer.Our participation in the Mass becomes authentic when we recognize that the Father is inviting us to receive the Eucharist as “the living bread that came down from heaven” and Jesus' “Flesh for the life of the world.” The Mass is about receiving God into our lives, not because we choose to put Him there, but because we say “Yes” to His invitation to be drawn to Him. The word “Eucharist” means “thanksgiving,” and this must be our prayerful response to such a great gift. We must foster an attitude of sincere gratitude for the Father's invitation to share in the Sacrifice of His Son so as to be given the unmerited gift of eternal life.Reflect today on your participation in the Mass. If you ever feel that your attendance is a favor to God, pause and listen to the Father's voice calling you. Try to hear Him invite you to this most precious Feast. Become aware of the Father drawing you to the Mass, to His Son, the source of eternal life. Respond with humble gratitude, knowing that there is no greater gift you can receive.Heavenly Father, You constantly speak to me, call to me, and draw me to Your Son. Please open my ears to hear Your gentle voice, offering me the Body and Blood, Soul and Divinity of Your Son in the Holy Eucharist. May my participation in that unfathomable Gift be one of sincere gratitude for the eternal gifts You invite me to receive. Jesus, I trust in You.Image: Sermon on the Mount via AdobeSource: Free RSS feed from catholic-daily-reflections.com — Copyright © 2026 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. This content is provided solely for personal, non-commercial use. Redistribution, republication, or commercial use — including use within apps with advertising — is strictly prohibited without written permission.

There are aspects of tension, excitement, and confusion as Jesus continues to teach in Jerusalem following his triumphal entry. The Pharisees, Sadducees, scribes, and other experts of the law have already tested him with their inquisitions, but he didn't fumble with answers in the slightest. On the contrary, his answers left the crowd in awe and wonder at his wisdom and judgment. Today, Jesus returns the favor by declaring seven woes upon the hypocrites who elevate themselves but weigh down others. Later, the disciples have questions about the future, and Jesus calls them to faithfulness and expectancy while waiting for His return. Matthew 23 – 1:12 .  Matthew 24 – 8:14 .  Matthew 25 – 15:48 .  Psalm 69 – 23:16 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Although the Pharisees devoted themselves to studying Scripture and making outward displays of piety, their understanding of righteousness was lacking. Today, R.C. Sproul challenges Christians to pursue true righteousness before God. Request the Pleasing God bundle with your donation. You'll receive R.C. Sproul's book, his video teaching series on DVD, and lifetime digital access to the messages and study guide: https://gift.renewingyourmind.org/   Live outside the U.S. and Canada? Get the digital teaching series and study guide with your donation: https://www.renewingyourmind.org/global   Meet Today's Teacher:   R.C. Sproul (1939–2017) was founder of Ligonier Ministries, first minister of preaching and teaching at Saint Andrew's Chapel, first president of Reformation Bible College, and executive editor of Tabletalk magazine. Renewing Your Mind is a donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

It is a subtle thing, pride. It rarely announces itself. It creeps in quietly — in the way we measure ourselves against others, in the quiet satisfaction we feel when we believe we have gotten it right, in the distance we keep from those we have decided are beneath us. And all the while, we may believe we are simply being discerning, or faithful, or righteous. But God sees the posture of the heart. In the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector, Jesus draws a portrait of two men at prayer — and the one who goes home justified is not the one with the longer list of religious achievements. It is the one who could not even lift his eyes to heaven. The one who simply said, God, have mercy on me, a sinner. That prayer, so short and so stripped of pretense, was the one that moved the heart of God. There is a freedom that comes when we stop managing our image before the Lord and simply come as we are. When we release our grip on the comparisons, the tallying, the quiet pride in how far we have come — and return to that place of open-handed dependence. It is not a place of shame. It is the very place where grace meets us. Tonight, He is not asking for your record. He is asking for your heart. Come low. Come honest. And find, as so many have before you, that it is in that humble place where the Savior draws nearest. What You'll Take Away Discover why the most dangerous prayers are the ones that are really just conversations with ourselves You'll learn how pride blinds us to our own need for grace — even while we are in the act of worship Discover the freedom that comes from releasing self-righteousness and approaching God with open, honest humility You'll learn why the shortest, simplest prayer in Scripture — "God, have mercy on me, a sinner" — remains one of the most powerful prayers any of us can pray Discover how true humility is not self-deprecation, but a sober, grace-filled awareness of who we are before a holy God Tonight's Scripture "For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted." — Luke 18:14, NIV "Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you." — Romans 12:3, NIV "There is no one righteous, not even one." — Romans 3:10, NIV Your Evening Prayer Holy God, You see what we so often hide from ourselves. Tonight we come not with a list of what we have done right, but with open hands and bowed heads. Forgive us for the moments we have measured our worth against others, or taken quiet pride in our faithfulness. Remind us that every good thing in us is a gift from You — nothing earned, nothing deserved. Meet us in this humble place. Have mercy on us, sinners that we are. And let that mercy be the ground we stand on, now and always. In Jesus' name, Amen. Want More? Continue your journey at https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-nightly-prayer/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Israel & Lebanon announce ceasefire — but Netanyahu says troops stay while hardliners push for "Greater Israel" south of the Litani River Trump invites Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun to the White House (first talks in 34 years) Pope Leo goes to war with the Trump administration — JD Vance, Tom Homan, and Catholic Charities funding cuts Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's unhinged Pentagon press conference: compares the Iran war to Jesus, calls journalists modern-day Pharisees, and channels his controversial Christian nationalist pastor Doug Wilson The brutal reality of America's war with Iran: Strait of Hormuz blockade, exploding oil prices, running out of missiles, low public support, and mounting casualties Plus: RFK Jr.'s raccoon genitalia story, Marjorie Taylor Greene's death-threat call with Trump, John Eastman disbarred, record April heat wave, and more cabinet scandals

Isack and Edwin contrast putting confidence in the flesh versus putting confidence in Christ.Read the written devo that goes along with this episode by clicking here.    Let us know what you are learning or any questions you have. Email us at TextTalk@ChristiansMeetHere.org.    Join the Facebook community and join the conversation by clicking here. We'd love to meet you. Be a guest among the Christians who meet on Livingston Avenue. Click here to find out more. Michael Eldridge sang all four parts of our theme song. Find more from him by clicking here.   Thanks for talking about the text with us today.________________________________________________If the hyperlinks do not work, copy the following addresses and paste them into the URL bar of your web browser: Daily Written Devo: https://readthebiblemakedisciples.wordpress.com/?p=25266The Christians Who Meet on Livingston Avenue: http://www.christiansmeethere.org/Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/TalkAboutTheTextFacebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/texttalkMichael Eldridge: https://acapeldridge.com/ 

Send Us Your Questions/CommentsA woman with a reputation steps into a Pharisee's house, collapses behind Jesus, and turns her tears into an act of worship. It's tender, uncomfortable, and impossible to ignore and it forces one big question: do we see our need the way she does, or do we hide behind respectability like Simon?We walk through Luke 7:36-50 and the parable of the two debtors to show why Christian forgiveness is never something we earn and why pride is so often the real gatekeeper. The conversation hits the difference between knowledge and wisdom, how self-righteousness blinds us to our spiritual debt, and why the fruit of being forgiven is love that spills out into devotion, mercy, and changed relationships. We also connect the dots to everyday discipleship, including marriage, where forgiveness is not optional if we want love to last.Then Luke 8:1-3 opens up the mission: Jesus proclaims the good news of the kingdom of God, and Luke spotlights women who follow, serve, and provide out of their own means. It's a clear reminder that the gospel is for all people and that the kingdom advances through faithful partnership, not status.Listen, share this with a friend who needs hope, and subscribe, rate, and review so more people can find the podcast. What part of this story challenges you most: admitting your need or extending forgiveness?New episodes every Mondaywww.lifehousemot.cominfo@lifehousede.comJoin us Sundays at 9 & 11 AMIntro music by Joey Blair

Mark 12:13-1713 And they sent to him some of the Pharisees and some of the Herodians, to trap him in his talk. 14 And they came and said to him, “Teacher, we know that you are true and do not care about anyone's opinion. For you are not swayed by appearances, but truly teach the way of God. Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not? Should we pay them, or should we not?” 15 But, knowing their hypocrisy, he said to them, “Why put me to the test? Bring me a denarius and let me look at it.” 16 And they brought one. And he said to them, “Whose likeness and inscription is this?” They said to him, “Caesar's.” 17 Jesus said to them, “Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's.” And they marveled at him.

Send a text or comment!SHAFOIN STUDIOS and BEARANOOGA PRODUCTIONSp   r   e   s   e   n   t   s  :MY NEW NORM Podcast- S6 E7Guest: Lynne Rienstra- Author / CommunicatorEpisode: Going In and Coming Out of HidingWelcome to the MY NEW NORM Podcast, where we talk with real people facing real change and discovering what life looks like on the other side.I'm your host, Barry Scott Young, and today we're joined by author and speaker Lynne Rienstra, whose book Sacred Refuge explores what it means to find safety, healing, and the presence of God even in life's most difficult seasons.About Guest:Lynne Rienstra, is a recovering Pharisee and spiritual orphan. Through her mentoring, speaking, and writing, she invites women to exchange the lies they've believed for the truth God speaks over them in Scripture. The result? Freedom like they've never experienced before.Sometimes life changes in ways we never expected.Pain shows up.Loss hits hard.Trauma leaves questions that don't have easy answers.And in those moments, many people quietly ask a question they never thought they would ask…Where is God in the middle of all this?If you've ever felt overwhelmed…If you've ever wondered how to keep going when life gets heavy…This conversation is for you.Resources:For information og Lynne Rienstra, and her book- "Sacred Refuge:"www.bravebeloved.comwww.lynnerienstra.comMY NEW NORM Podcast-Email: mynewnorm@email.comCommunity / MERCH: www.mynewnorm.shopFaceBook: @mynewnormInstagram: @mynewnorm_podcastFOLLOW / WATCH / SHARESupport the showmynewnorm.buzzsprout.com/ / YouTube.com/@mynewnorm

In a culture where the temperature on faith and sexuality is often "turned up to 1000 degrees," Pastor Mike continues the five-week series, "God, LGBTQ, and You," by focusing on the second greatest commandment: Love your neighbor as yourself.Building on last week's message about loving God most, this sermon explores what it means to truly love our neighbors in the midst of a polarizing cultural divide. Drawing from Matthew 22, Pastor Mike challenges the "conditional view of love" that often plagues both religious and secular communities. The big idea is simple but transformative: followers of Christ are called to love all our neighbors a lot—not just some of them, and not just a little.Through the examples of the woman at the well, the self-righteous Pharisees, and the tax collector Zacchaeus, we see a Jesus who was "so approachable and loving" that it confused the people around Him. He didn't lead with a ledger of mistakes; He led with countercultural love. Most importantly, the sermon highlights the heart of the Gospel: God demonstrated His love for us by dying for us "while we were still sinners"—not after we had everything figured out.

On Sunday, April 19th 2026, Assistant Pastor Dillon Meadway's teaching draws us into the heart of Luke 15, where we encounter three parables that reveal God's relentless pursuit of the lost: the lost sheep, the lost coin, and the prodigal son. The message challenges us to examine our own hearts and ask a penetrating question: would we go after the one? While the Pharisees criticized Jesus for eating with sinners and tax collectors, He was demonstrating the very essence of His mission—to seek and save that which was lost. The shepherd didn't wait for the sheep to find its way home; he left the ninety-nine and searched until he found it. The woman didn't assume the coin would turn up eventually; she lit a candle and swept diligently until it was recovered. And the father didn't wait at the doorstep; he ran while his son was still a great way off. This teaching confronts our tendency to become comfortable with the ninety-nine, to forget what it felt like to be lost, broken, and desperate for grace. We're reminded that heaven rejoices over one sinner who repents more than over ninety-nine who need no repentance. The call is clear: we must learn to embrace the unworthy, to meet people where they are, and to restore relationship rather than demand perfection before acceptance. When prodigals return to our churches, will they find judgment or the Father's embrace?

Lesson 5 - A Kingdom of Grace, Mercy and PeaceMatthew 8:1—9:17. After describing His Kingdom in the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus began to demonstrate its power. He healed many — among them a leper, the servant of a despised Roman centurion, a paralytic, and two Gentile men tormented by demons. He calmed a violent storm for His disciples and spoke strong words to would-be-followers and offended Pharisees. This, He said, is the Kingdom He came to bring — a new covenant of grace, mercy and peace for all who would receive it.To learn more about Michele or to support this international ministry please visit https://intheword.com

In Pastor Joey McLaughlin's sermon “Break the Jar,” part of the Half-Hearted series, he challenges believers to confront the reality of spiritual heart disease—the true reason many people drift from faith. Drawing from Luke 7 and the story of the sinful woman with the alabaster jar, Pastor Joey contrasts empty religious routine with authentic, wholehearted devotion. While the Pharisee represents outward religion without intimacy, the woman models radical love by pouring out her most valuable possession at Jesus' feet. The message emphasizes that Jesus is after our hearts above all else, and real transformation happens when we recognize the depth of our forgiveness and respond with complete surrender. “Breaking the jar” becomes a powerful metaphor for laying down everything—our pride, possessions, and reputation—to pursue a deep, passionate relationship with Jesus. This sermon calls Christians to move beyond half-hearted faith into bold, extravagant worship and total devotion to Christ.

Matthew Week 132   Matthew 23:23-24 ESV   23 "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you tithe mint and dill and cumin, and have neglected the weightier matters of the law: justice and mercy and faithfulness. These you ought to have done, without neglecting the others. 24 You blind guides, straining out a gnat and swallowing a camel!       Deuteronomy 14:22-23 ESV   22 "You shall tithe all the yield of your seed that comes from the field year by year. 23 And before the Lord your God, in the place that he will choose, to make his name dwell there, you shall eat the tithe of your grain, of your wine, and of your oil, and the firstborn of your herd and flock, that you may learn to fear the Lord your God always.       Matthew 9:13 ESV   13 Go and learn what this means: 'I desire mercy, and not sacrifice.' For I came not to call the righteous, but sinners."       Micah 6:6-8 ESV   6 "With what shall I come before the Lord,   and bow myself before God on high?   Shall I come before him with burnt offerings,   with calves a year old?   7 Will the Lord be pleased with thousands of rams,   with ten thousands of rivers of oil?   Shall I give my firstborn for my transgression,   the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul?"   8 He has told you, O man, what is good;   and what does the Lord require of you   but to do justice, and to love kindness,   and to walk humbly with your God?       1 Samuel 15:3 ESV   3 Now go and strike Amalek and devote to destruction all that they have. Do not spare them, but kill both man and woman, child and infant, ox and sheep, camel and donkey.'"       1 Samuel 15:10-11 ESV   10 The word of the Lord came to Samuel: 11 "I regret that I have made Saul king, for he has turned back from following me and has not performed my commandments." And Samuel was angry, and he cried to the Lord all night.       1 Samuel 15:22 ESV   22 Samuel said,   "Has the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices,   as in obeying the voice of the Lord?   Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice,   and to listen than the fat of rams.     Matthew 7:21-23 ESV   21 "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.22 On that day many will say to me, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?' 23 And then will I declare to them, 'I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.'  

Mark 7:1-30 1 Now when the Pharisees gathered to him, with some of the scribes who had come from Jerusalem, 2 they saw that some of his disciples ate with hands that were defiled, that is, unwashed. 3 (For the Pharisees and all the Jews do not eat unless they wash their hands properly,[a] holding to the tradition of the elders, 4 and when they come from the marketplace, they do not eat unless they wash.[b] And there are many other traditions that they observe, such as the washing of cups and pots and copper vessels and dining couches.[c]) 5 And the Pharisees and the scribes asked him, “Why do your disciples not walk according to the tradition of the elders, but eat with defiled hands?” 6 And he said to them, “Well did Isaiah prophesy of you hypocrites, as it is written, “‘This people honors me with their lips,     but their heart is far from me; 7 in vain do they worship me,     teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.' 8 You leave the commandment of God and hold to the tradition of men.” 9 And he said to them, “You have a fine way of rejecting the commandment of God in order to establish your tradition! 10 For Moses said, ‘Honor your father and your mother'; and, ‘Whoever reviles father or mother must surely die.' 11 But you say, ‘If a man tells his father or his mother, “Whatever you would have gained from me is Corban”' (that is, given to God)[d]— 12 then you no longer permit him to do anything for his father or mother, 13 thus making void the word of God by your tradition that you have handed down. And many such things you do.” What Defiles a Person 14 And he called the people to him again and said to them, “Hear me, all of you, and understand: 15 There is nothing outside a person that by going into him can defile him, but the things that come out of a person are what defile him.”[e] 17 And when he had entered the house and left the people, his disciples asked him about the parable. 18 And he said to them, “Then are you also without understanding? Do you not see that whatever goes into a person from outside cannot defile him, 19 since it enters not his heart but his stomach, and is expelled?”[f] (Thus he declared all foods clean.) 20 And he said, “What comes out of a person is what defiles him. 21 For from within, out of the heart of man, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, 22 coveting, wickedness, deceit, sensuality, envy, slander, pride, foolishness. 23 All these evil things come from within, and they defile a person.” The Syrophoenician Woman's Faith 24 And from there he arose and went away to the region of Tyre and Sidon.[g] And he entered a house and did not want anyone to know, yet he could not be hidden. 25 But immediately a woman whose little daughter had an unclean spirit heard of him and came and fell down at his feet. 26 Now the woman was a Gentile, a Syrophoenician by birth. And she begged him to cast the demon out of her daughter. 27 And he said to her, “Let the children be fed first, for it is not right to take the children's bread and throw it to the dogs.” 28 But she answered him, “Yes, Lord; yet even the dogs under the table eat the children's crumbs.” 29 And he said to her, “For this statement you may go your way; the demon has left your daughter.” 30 And she went home and found the child lying in bed and the demon gone. LESSON NOTES Tradition vs. Commandment (Mark 7:1-13) The Conflict: Pharisees and teachers of the law criticize the disciples for eating with "unwashed hands"—a ritual tradition, not a command from God. The Absurdity: The Pharisees focused on hand-washing rituals even while witnessing Jesus perform miraculous healings. The Danger of "Corban": Jesus highlights how human traditions can actually be used to bypass God's commands, such as using religious dedication as an excuse to avoid caring for aging parents. The Source of Defilement (Mark 7:14-23) Outer vs. Inner: Jesus teaches that nothing entering from the outside defiles a person; rather, defilement comes from what is already inside the heart. The Heart's Inventory: Evil thoughts, greed, malice, and arrogance all originate within and are what truly make a person "unclean". The World's Unluckiest Bear: The story of the albino grizzly bear (and the fact that the story itself was a hoax) illustrates how easily we are fooled by outward appearances and how quickly we judge others based on surface-level information. A Surprising Model of Faith (Mark 7:24-30) The Syrophoenician Woman: Outwardly, she was "unclean" by every cultural standard—a Gentile woman with a daughter possessed by an unclean spirit. The Contrast: While the "religiously perfect" Pharisees and the chosen disciples failed to understand Jesus, this "unclean" woman demonstrated profound faith and humility. The Result: She recognized Jesus' authority (calling him "Lord") and her daughter was healed because of her faith-filled response. Application Avoid "Externalism": Be careful not to turn people into "issues" or "projects" based on their outward behavior. Hold Traditions Loosely: We must be willing to let Jesus' word contradict our habits and preferences. Practice Inner Formation: Confession: Engaging in the discipline of confessing sins to one another to bring the heart into the light. Spiritual Disciplines: Intentional practices like prayer to shape our inner selves. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS Ice Breaker: Based on the sermon's opening poll, are you "Team Cadbury Egg" or "Team Reese's Egg"? If you had to pick one "compound coating" or fake version of a food you love that you absolutely cannot stand, what would it be? Have you ever been disappointed upon discovering the ingredients of something? Discussion Questions: Tradition vs. Truth: Jesus used the example of "Corban" to show how religious traditions can actually help us avoid doing what God truly wants. Can you think of modern "traditions" or "religious checklists" that might accidentally give us an excuse to avoid the harder work of loving others or obeying God? The "Joey the Bear" Reflection: Jeremy shared that many people feel judgmental toward the conservationists in the bear story until they realize the story itself is a hoax. How does this "double-blind" story challenge the way you view or judge the "Pharisees" in your own life? The Heart of the Matter: Jesus lists several "evils" that come from within the heart (greed, malice, slander, arrogance, etc.). Why is it often easier for us to focus on "clean hands" (outward behavior and rituals) than to deal with these internal heart issues? Learning from the "Outsider": The Syrophoenician woman understood Jesus better than his own disciples did at that moment. What does her interaction with Jesus teach us about how we should approach God when we feel "unclean" or unworthy? Practical Steps: The lesson suggested confession to others as a way to "cut past the external". What makes the idea of confessing struggles to another person so intimidating, and how might it lead to the "transformed heart" Jesus is looking for?

Cancel Culture was a habit of the Pharisees, not of Jesus. Christians who practice “cancelling” people in some way are not following the Spirit of God and aligning themselves with Jesus and the Word of God. Please avoid this trap from the enemy.

There was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. 2 This man came to Jesus by night and said to Him, "Rabbi, we know that You are a teacher come from God; for no one can do these signs that You do unless God is with him." 3 Jesus answered and said to him, "Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God." 4 Nicodemus said to Him, "How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother's womb and be born?" 5 Jesus answered, "Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. 6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. 7 Do not marvel that I said to you, 'You must be born again.' 8 The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear the sound of it, but cannot tell where it comes from and where it goes. So is everyone who is born of the Spirit." 9 Nicodemus answered and said to Him, "How can these things be?" 10 Jesus answered and said to him, "Are you the teacher of Israel, and do not know these things? 11 Most assuredly, I say to you, We speak what We know and testify what We have seen, and you do not receive Our witness. 12 If I have told you earthly things and you do not believe, how will you believe if I tell you heavenly things? 13 No one has ascended to heaven but He who came down from heaven, that is, the Son of Man who is in heaven. 14 And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up, 15 that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.

Tonight on The Last Word: Rep. Adam Smith says Iran has not agreed to Donald Trump's claims. Also, Trump is grappling with potential midterm losses. Plus, Trump is checked again by the federal courts. And Pete Hegseth says members of the press are like “Pharisees” who tried to “destroy” Jesus. Rep. Adam Smith, Rep. Greg Stanton, Nevada Secretary of State Cisco Aguilar, Barbara McQuade, and Richard Stengel join Jonathan Capehart. To listen to this show and other MS podcasts without ads, sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

US Middle East tensions are worsening as China mobilizes its navy to block South China Sea shipping lanes carrying 30% of global trade. Meanwhile, the Trump administration is pushing full-scale war for Israel, expanding FISA surveillance, and covering up the Epstein files. Trump supporters, including Christians, now compare him to Jesus and his critics to Pharisees, led by Lindsey Graham and Pete Hegseth. The author's father has cut ties with him and his grandchildren over blind loyalty to Trump, whom he calls a war-criminal pedophile.   Stew drops bombs on the Charlie Kirk assassination as a high-level military hit out of Fort Huachuca to silence a man who broke from the Zionist war machine and the pedophile protection racket. From Pete Hegseth's Gulfstream making SAM flights into the base the exact days Erica Kirk and Cabot Phillips were spotted there, to the same plane circling the exploding AES facility while the 10th Mountain Division was quietly purged, the cover-up runs straight to the top of the Trump administration and the Zionist-occupied government. This April only: $3 off your first month on Locals ✝️ A reminder of the 3rd day and the power of resurrection. Join here:

Today's readings.. (Deuteronomy 1), (Proverbs 28), (John 11)Today's 11th chapter in John's Gospel has that wonderful account of the raising of Lazarus. The ministry of Jesus, covering about 3 ½ years, is now approaching its' climax.  The authorities are intensifying their efforts to arrest and kill him and Jesus and his disciples are staying out of Judea.On getting news about Lazarus' sickness Jesus waits 2 days longer before saying to the disciples, ““Let us go to Judea again'.  The disciples said to him, ‘Rabbi, the Jews were just now seeking to stone you and are you going there again?''” [v.7,8]  Jesus makes a strange answer, “If anyone walks in the day, he does not stumble, because he sees the light of this world” [v.9]  This world!?  This world is in spiritual darkness and the one who walks “in the night” says Jesus, “stumbles because the light is not in him” [v.10]  Are you in danger of stumbling?  Is the “light” in you?  What does Jesus mean?  In ch, 12 we will read, “I have come into the world as light, so that whoever believes in me may not remain in darkness.” [v.46]  Remember also what we read in ch. 8 v.12Jesus tells his disciples, “Lazarus is dead, and for your sake I am glad that I was not there, so that you may believe..  But let us go to him” [v.15]   We then have the well-known account of the remarkable raising of Lazarus after he had been dead for 4 days; and, as a result, “many of the Jews therefore, who had come with Mary and had seen what he did believed in him.”[v.45]   The Pharisees were told of this incredible miracle and the affect it had had; they became even more determined to put him to death – they saw his popularity as a threat that would “take away both our place and our nation.” [v.48]Now consider, over the last 104 years a modern miracle has occurred, it is 104years since Jerusalem and the land of Israel was delivered from the control of the Turks, the Muslims – and 73 years ago the U.N. voted in favour of at least part of the promised land becoming a Jewish nation, but the U.N. had no powers to enforce their decision: however, against overwhelming odds the Jews triumphed! It was the resurrection miracle of a nation, destroyed 1,951 years preciously,  which God's word had foretold. (Luke 21 v.24  Romans 11 v.25) This modern resurrection miracle has occurred as prophesied “that you may believe”  that is, those who read and really know God's word. May you be among them?  Do you really see “the light of the world” with the eyes of true faith – for as this world plunges into deeper darkness – only those with genuine faith will endure. 

John Eastman was disbarred by the State of California for his role in attempting to overturn the 2020 election. Former federal prosecutor Glenn Kirchner weighs in on what that means. All six attorneys who helped Trump push his post-election legal schemes, including Rudy Giuliani, Sidney Powell, Jenna Ellis, Jeffrey Clark, and Kenneth Chesebro, have faced disbarment or disciplinary action. Pete Hegseth delivered a press corps speech comparing the mainstream media to the Pharisees of the Bible, claiming a surge in military enlistment and defending the Yemen strikes. CNN's Jake Tapper responds. Hegseth's personal history, including allegations of alcohol abuse and a paid NDA settlement following a rape accusation, sit in sharp contrast to his stated religious values. Steve Bannon warns a Washington DC crowd about Sharia law coming to Texas and gets laughed at. California Representative Sydney Kamlager-Dove closes out the episode with a message for Donald Trump. SUPPORT & CONNECT WITH HAWK- Support on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/mdg650hawk - Hawk's Merch Store: https://hawkmerchstore.com - Connect on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mdg650hawk7thacct - Connect on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hawkeyewhackamole - Connect on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/mdg650hawk.bsky.social - Connect on Substack: https://mdg650hawk.substack.com - Connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hawkpodcasts - Connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mdg650hawk - Connect on Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/mdg650hawk ALL HAWK PODCASTS INFO- Additional Content Available Here: https://www.hawkpodcasts.comhttps://www.youtube.com/@hawkpodcasts- Listen to Hawk Podcasts On Your Favorite Platform:Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3RWeJfyApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/422GDuLYouTube: https://youtube.com/@hawkpodcastsiHeartRadio: https://ihr.fm/47vVBdPPandora: https://bit.ly/48COaTB

We've seen him in Scripture.We've recognized him in today's world.Now, we deal with him.In this episode, we uncover what the Pharisee spirit is truly costing you—far beyond what can be seen on the surface. The price is far greater than most realize. But it doesn't stop there. We also walk through how this spirit is conquered. This is where recognition turns into surrender and surrender into victory.

The Pharisees observe a number of practices that they have developed outside of Scripture in order to maintain what they perceive to be according to the law. These traditions began to be held in such high esteem that they were seen to be equal to the Law itself. Moreover, they lacked a true love for the God of Abraham, essentially adhering to regulations as their salvation and their righteousness. As we read the interactions Jesus has with the Pharisees today, keep in mind that Christ came to fulfill the law, not abolish it. He teaches the crowd that it is not what goes into a person that makes them unclean, but that which comes out from the heart. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

When Jesus said that the end times would be like it was back in the days of Noah, He pointed us back to a world united in rebellion against God, a world ripe for judgment. What most Christians don't realize is that this “return to the days of Noah” has a direct prophetic connection to what's quietly being constructed today under the banner of the The 7 Noahide Laws—a global moral code recognized by the United Nations, the United States and endorsed by people like Ben Shapiro, John Hagee and countless others here in 2026.““Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye make clean the outside of the cup and of the platter, but within they are full of extortion and excess.”” Matthew 23:25 (KJB)On this episode of the Prophecy News Podcast, these 7 Noahide Laws may sound harmless—universal ethics for humanity—but behind their smooth language lies a spiritual trap preparing the world for the One World Religion prophesied in Revelation 13. And worse than that, the Noahide Laws come wrapped in a cloak of scripture, they are anything but. For example, when the 7 Noahide Laws are enacted, it will make teaching salvation in Jesus Christ a crime punishable by execution. Rabbinical Judaism is not the Law of Moses, it's not Bible, it was what Jesus preached against during His earthly ministry. It was the reason He flipped over the tables of the moneychangers, and the reason why Jesus called them all hypocrites. We live right now in a highly-charged and global religious society, where the 7 Noahide Laws are waiting in the wings getting ready to make their entrance on the end times stage. We will show you connection the 7 Noahide Laws have with the 7 Mountains Mandate, and how all the activity underway right now in the Middle East foreshadows the soon arrival of Antichrist and the Strong Delusion. Here's a fun fact: in the same year that then-President George H.W. Bush signed the 7 Noahide Laws into US Public Law, 1991, he also declared the soon arrival of the coming New World Order. Here in 2026, God is using Donald Trump is bringing it all to pass. We are living in exciting times!

Send us Fan MailAn unlikely crowd gathered together around Jesus: self-righteous Pharisees and publicans and sinners. They all waited to hear Jesus' words, and Jesus shared three parables of a lost sheep, coin, and son. Pick up your Bible or device, and turn to Luke 15 to hear the story.This episode is based on the God's Word for Life, Spring 2026, Adult Lesson Guide entitled, "The Lost Sheep, Coin, and Son" (April 19, 2026).Find an Apostolic church that preaches this glorious gospel and our response at UPCI.orgThis episode is produced by the Pentecostal Resources Group and is hosted by LJ Harry. To order resources of the God's Word for Life curriculum, visitPentecostalPublishing.com and PentecostalResourcesGroup.com.Share your God's Word for Life stories with me at pphcurriculum@upci.org.

If you've been a follower of Jesus for a while, chances are that you've heard many of today's accounts before. Jesus cleanses the lepers, opens the ears of the deaf and the eyes of the blind, raises the dead, casts demons out of people, and then commissions His disciples to do the same. As you listen to today's reading, don't let familiarity keep you from contemplating how absolutely mind-boggling all of this would have been to those who witnessed it. Even the Pharisees couldn't deny what was happening, they could only question how. Such strong displays of power and wisdom can only be done by One who is the Son of God. Matthew 9 - 1:09 .  Matthew 10 - 7:17 .  Matthew 11 - 14:00 .  Matthew 12 – 19:31 .  Psalm 65 - 27:15 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Today’s Topics: 1, 2, 3, 4) Gospel – John 3:1-8 – There was a Pharisee named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. He came to Jesus at night and said to Him, “Rabbi, we know that You are a Teacher Who has come from God, for no one can do these signs that You are doing unless God is with Him.” Jesus answered and said to him, “Amen, amen, I say to you, unless one is born from above, he cannot see the Kingdom of God.” Nicodemus said to Him, “How can a man once grown old be born again? Surely he cannot reenter his mother’s womb and be born again, can he?” Jesus answered, “Amen, amen, I say to you, unless one is born of water and Spirit he cannot enter the Kingdom of God. What is born of flesh is flesh and what is born of spirit is spirit. Do not be amazed that I told you, ‘You must be born from above.’ The wind blows where it wills, and you can hear the sound it makes, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes; so it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.” Memorial of Saint Martin I, Pope and Martyr Saint Martin, pray for us!Bishop Sheen quote of the day

JOHN 18:1-27 - JESUS ARRESTED - BRIAN SUMNER - 2025JOHN 18:1-27 "When Jesus had spoken these words, He went out with His disciples over the Brook Kidron, where there was a garden, which He and His disciples entered. 2 And Judas, who betrayed Him, also knew the place; for Jesus often met there with His disciples. 3 Then Judas, having received a detachment of troops, and officers from the chief priests and Pharisees, came there with lanterns, torches, and weapons. 4 Jesus therefore, knowing all things that would come upon Him, went forward and said to them, “Whom are you seeking?”5 They answered Him, “Jesus of Nazareth.”Jesus said to them, “I am He.” And Judas, who betrayed Him, also stood with them. 6 Now when He said to them, “I am He,” they drew back and fell to the ground.7 Then He asked them again, “Whom are you seeking?”And they said, “Jesus of Nazareth.”8 Jesus answered, “I have told you that I am He. Therefore, if you seek Me, let these go their way,” 9 that the saying might be fulfilled which He spoke, “Of those whom You gave Me I have lost none.”10 Then Simon Peter, having a sword, drew it and struck the high priest's servant, and cut off his right ear. The servant's name was Malchus.11 So Jesus said to Peter, “Put your sword into the sheath. Shall I not drink the cup which My Father has given Me?”Before the High Priest12 Then the detachment of troops and the captain and the officers of the Jews arrested Jesus and bound Him. 13 And they led Him away to Annas first, for he was the father-in-law of Caiaphas who was high priest that year. 14 Now it was Caiaphas who advised the Jews that it was expedient that one man should die for the people.Peter Denies Jesus15 And Simon Peter followed Jesus, and so did another disciple. Now that disciple was known to the high priest, and went with Jesus into the courtyard of the high priest. 16 But Peter stood at the door outside. Then the other disciple, who was known to the high priest, went out and spoke to her who kept the door, and brought Peter in. 17 Then the servant girl who kept the door said to Peter, “You are not also one of this Man's disciples, are you?”He said, “I am not.”18 Now the servants and officers who had made a fire of coals stood there, for it was cold, and they warmed themselves. And Peter stood with them and warmed himself.Jesus Questioned by the High Priest19 The high priest then asked Jesus about His disciples and His doctrine.20 Jesus answered him, “I spoke openly to the world. I always taught in synagogues and in the temple, where the Jews always meet, and in secret I have said nothing. 21 Why do you ask Me? Ask those who have heard Me what I said to them. Indeed they know what I said.”22 And when He had said these things, one of the officers who stood by struck[e] Jesus with the palm of his hand, saying, “Do You answer the high priest like that?”23 Jesus answered him, “If I have spoken evil, bear witness of the evil; but if well, why do you strike Me?”24 Then Annas sent Him bound to Caiaphas the high priest.Peter Denies Twice More25 Now Simon Peter stood and warmed himself. Therefore they said to him, “You are not also one of His disciples, are you?”He denied it and said, “I am not!”26 One of the servants of the high priest, a relative of him whose ear Peter cut off, said, “Did I not see you in the garden with Him?” 27 Peter then denied again; and immediately a rooster crowed."To support this channel and partner with Brian in Ministryhttps://www.briansumner.net/support/For more on Brianhttp://www.briansumner.nethttps://www.instagram.com/BRIANSUMNER/https://www.facebook.com/BRIANSupport the showSUPPORT THE SHOW

President Donald Trump announces a 10-day ceasefire between Israel & Lebanon, to pause the war between Israel & Hezbollah in Lebanon. President Trump says the next round of negotiations in the war between the U.S. & Iran could happen this weekend; House votes down by just a few votes an Iran War Powers resolution to limit the president's authority to wage war on Iran without Congressional approval; Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth compares news media criticizing the U.S. war with Iran to the Pharisees, the biblical Jewish group who criticized Jesus; House passes a bill to extend Temporary Protected Status (TPS) to Haitian immigrants living in the U.S., as the Trump Administration is looking to revoke that protection; Senate joins the House overturning a Joe Biden-era environmental regulation banning mining operations on federal land in Minnesota's Superior National Forest; Health & Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. testifies before the House Ways & Means Committee on rooting out health care spending fraud; astronauts from the Artemis II moon mission hold their first news conference since returning to Earth. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When the Pharisees asked Jesus which was the greatest commandment, He basically answered by boiling them all down to what appears to be two, but is actually three.Listen to Matthew 22:37-39 …Jesus replied, “‘You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. A second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.'So who are we to love? God. Yes. Then our neighbor, which actually just means our fellow human beings. But we so often miss the last part He said. You have to love people “as yourself.”Sometimes we tend to love ourselves as in we will fight to get what we want or practice self-preservation at all costs. Jesus said if that's how you love yourself, love others just like that, with that same fervor. But here's another side to that coin … Another way we can interpret this statement is “You cannot love others any more than you are able to love yourself.” Are you really bad at loving yourself? Guess what? That's going to be your level of loving others too.Do you see it? I hope so, because this is a game changer.Now that you've heard these new thoughts, listen once again … Jesus replied, “‘You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. A second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.'Have you been hurt so much that you are focused on taking care of you over anyone else? Well, what if you were to love people like that? Then you'd be super-loyal, giving, and protective of everyone.Or do you struggle to love yourself and you know that makes your level of loving others really low, so it's time for something to give?The great news is the key to change for either side of this issue is found in the first part of the verse: ‘You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.'Let's pray together: “Heavenly Father, Teach me to love You, then teach me how to love me, then let all that start to create love for everyone around me. As above, so below.”

Jesus and his disciples have been traveling from town to town, and in today's reading, they return to Nazareth, which is where Jesus grew up and where his family resides. Those who knew his family knew that he grew up without formal teaching under the roof of a humble, blue-collar father. Jesus doesn't have the accolades of the scribes and Pharisees, and so they reject his teaching. Jesus then commissions the twelve apostles and they spread out into the nearby towns and villages teaching, healing, and casting out demons. Later, Mark gives us a detailed account of the fate of John the Baptist, who was beheaded by King Herod at a party. We'll also hear accounts of Jesus feeding the five thousand, walking on water, and healing the sick. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

“Are Catholics modern-day Pharisees?” This question opens a discussion on the role of tradition and faith in Catholicism. The conversation also touches on reasonable expectations for children at Mass, responses to LDS beliefs about marriage in heaven, and the significance of the Eucharist in receiving grace. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:55 – Are Catholics modern-day pharisees? 18:13 – What are reasonable expectations for children at Mass? 23:51 – How to respond to LDS members who believe they are still married in heaven? 29:30 – Do Protestants worship God even though they do not have the Eucharist? 34:45 – How exactly does the Eucharist give us Grace? 47:21 – Can Catholics and Mormons pray together? And how do I explain the intercession of Mary and the Saints?

Mark 3:1–6 In today's story, Jesus enters a synagogue on the Sabbath and meets a man with a shriveled hand. While others watch closely—waiting to see if Jesus will break their rules—Jesus does something unexpected. He heals. But instead of celebrating, the religious leaders become angry. Why? Because they cared more about their rules… than people. In this episode, we explore what the Sabbath was meant to be, what the Pharisees misunderstood, and what it means to truly love God and others.

Paul preaches to Agrippa and argues that he is only taking the beliefs of the Pharisees to their logical conclusion. People believe Paul has crossed from brilliant to madness. And Paul is determined to get to Rome. Have a listen. Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What's New from 1517: 1517 Youtube: How God Still Speaks Today Being Family by Dr. Scott Keith A Reasoned Defense of the Faith by Adam Francisco Stretched: A Study for Lent and the Entire Christian Life by Dr. Christopher Richmann The Essential Nestingen: Essays on Preaching, Catechism, and the Reformation Philip Melanchthon's Commentary on Ecclesiastes, Translated by Dr. Derek Cooper  More from the hosts: Daniel Emery Price Erick Sorenson

JOHN 18:1-27 - JESUS ARRESTED - BRIAN SUMNER - 2025JOHN 18:1-27 "When Jesus had spoken these words, He went out with His disciples over the Brook Kidron, where there was a garden, which He and His disciples entered. 2 And Judas, who betrayed Him, also knew the place; for Jesus often met there with His disciples. 3 Then Judas, having received a detachment of troops, and officers from the chief priests and Pharisees, came there with lanterns, torches, and weapons. 4 Jesus therefore, knowing all things that would come upon Him, went forward and said to them, “Whom are you seeking?”5 They answered Him, “Jesus of Nazareth.”Jesus said to them, “I am He.” And Judas, who betrayed Him, also stood with them. 6 Now when He said to them, “I am He,” they drew back and fell to the ground.7 Then He asked them again, “Whom are you seeking?”And they said, “Jesus of Nazareth.”8 Jesus answered, “I have told you that I am He. Therefore, if you seek Me, let these go their way,” 9 that the saying might be fulfilled which He spoke, “Of those whom You gave Me I have lost none.”10 Then Simon Peter, having a sword, drew it and struck the high priest's servant, and cut off his right ear. The servant's name was Malchus.11 So Jesus said to Peter, “Put your sword into the sheath. Shall I not drink the cup which My Father has given Me?”Before the High Priest12 Then the detachment of troops and the captain and the officers of the Jews arrested Jesus and bound Him. 13 And they led Him away to Annas first, for he was the father-in-law of Caiaphas who was high priest that year. 14 Now it was Caiaphas who advised the Jews that it was expedient that one man should die for the people.Peter Denies Jesus15 And Simon Peter followed Jesus, and so did another disciple. Now that disciple was known to the high priest, and went with Jesus into the courtyard of the high priest. 16 But Peter stood at the door outside. Then the other disciple, who was known to the high priest, went out and spoke to her who kept the door, and brought Peter in. 17 Then the servant girl who kept the door said to Peter, “You are not also one of this Man's disciples, are you?”He said, “I am not.”18 Now the servants and officers who had made a fire of coals stood there, for it was cold, and they warmed themselves. And Peter stood with them and warmed himself.Jesus Questioned by the High Priest19 The high priest then asked Jesus about His disciples and His doctrine.20 Jesus answered him, “I spoke openly to the world. I always taught in synagogues and in the temple, where the Jews always meet, and in secret I have said nothing. 21 Why do you ask Me? Ask those who have heard Me what I said to them. Indeed they know what I said.”22 And when He had said these things, one of the officers who stood by struck[e] Jesus with the palm of his hand, saying, “Do You answer the high priest like that?”23 Jesus answered him, “If I have spoken evil, bear witness of the evil; but if well, why do you strike Me?”24 Then Annas sent Him bound to Caiaphas the high priest.Peter Denies Twice More25 Now Simon Peter stood and warmed himself. Therefore they said to him, “You are not also one of His disciples, are you?”He denied it and said, “I am not!”26 One of the servants of the high priest, a relative of him whose ear Peter cut off, said, “Did I not see you in the garden with Him?” 27 Peter then denied again; and immediately a rooster crowed."To support this channel and partner with Brian in Ministryhttps://www.briansumner.net/support/For more on Brianhttp://www.briansumner.nethttps://www.instagram.com/BRIANSUMNER/https://www.facebook.com/BRIANSupport the showSUPPORT THE SHOW

What if the Sermon on the Mount is the New Testament's answer to the Ten Commandments, a standard not written to burden us, but to show us how to truly live? In this episode, Dot and Cara sit down for an honest conversation about one of Jesus' most sweeping teachings in Matthew 5, 6, and 7, and why it might be the most important thing He ever said. They talk about what it actually means to be set apart, why living like Jesus points people to God rather than away from Him, and the one thing that makes any of this possible at all. Pull up a chair, grab your Bible, and lean in with us.Got a question about today's episode or something else you'd like to hear us talk about on the show? Let us know! Episode RecapIntro (00:00)Write this down: Matthew 5:1-2 (ESV) — Jesus goes up the mountain, sits down, and begins to teach His disciples (00:07)Why the Sermon on the Mount matters: Cara admits she never fully appreciated this passage before, and that's kind of the point (00:32)Jesus taught with authority, not like the scribes or Pharisees, and the crowds were astonished (01:09)This teaching was for His followers: the Sermon on the Mount is God's instruction to His people on how to live set apart (02:43)The New Testament parallel to the Ten Commandments: just as Moses gave Israel a standard, Jesus gives His followers one too (07:09)We're not going to reach it on our own, and that is exactly why we need the Holy Spirit (14:45)Living like Jesus points people toward God, not because it makes us look good, but because it makes Him visible (10:23)Sanctification: what it means that God is always working in us to look more like Him, not as a checklist, but as a life (14:45)The spoiler Dot gives: we cannot live the Christian life in our own strength, and that is why Jesus sent the Holy Spirit (23:22)This Episode's Scripture VerseMatthew 5:1-2 (ESV) — “Seeing the crowds, he went up on the mountain, and when he sat down, his disciples came to him. And he opened his mouth and taught them.”Are you interested in having Dot come and speak to your community? Email us at hello@dotbowen.com.Watch Write this Down! on YouTubeFind Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook 

Legalism, moralism, externalism—whatever you call it, the mindset that ruled the Pharisees is still alive and well today.In today's episode, we continue our sermon series from the archives, The Gospel According to Mark, as Paul teaches from Mark 7, one of the most theologically rich chapters in the Gospel, highlighting Jesus' piercing focus on the heart over outward performance.To hear more sermons from Paul, visit PaulTripp.com/Sermons.

Read Online“And this is the verdict, that the light came into the world, but people preferred darkness to light, because their works were evil. For everyone who does wicked things hates the light and does not come toward the light, so that his works might not be exposed. But whoever lives the truth comes to the light, so that his works may be clearly seen as done in God. John 3:19–21The contrast of light and darkness is a beautiful concept to ponder in prayer. They are not two opposing forces. Darkness is simply the absence of light. In the visual spectrum, darkness does not exist. It is nothingness—no light, no color—making it impossible for our eyes to see. Similarly, within the spiritual realm, the absence of God leaves us spiritually blind. Darkness does not remove our capacity for seeing; rather, our sight is rendered useless without the light that reveals truth and guides our way. In this spiritual darkness, we stumble, unable to discern good from evil or to find the path to holiness. Yet, when we invite the divine light of Christ into our souls, the darkness dissipates and we begin to see clearly, walking confidently in God's grace and truth.If you've ever been in complete darkness, perhaps at home on a cloudy night when the power goes out, you know that even one small candle is enough to find your way around. So it is with the Light of Christ. Even the faintest presence of grace in our souls enables us to begin to find our way back to God.Today's Gospel begins with that familiar passage from John 3:16: “God so loved the world that he gave his only-begotten Son, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but might have eternal life.” This line comes toward the end of Jesus' conversation with Nicodemus, the Pharisee who came to Jesus at night to converse with Him. Nicodemus was searching.Perhaps after he heard some of Jesus' teachings and witnessed His miracles, Nicodemus discovered a small flickering flame of faith within his soul. That flame enabled him to find his way to Jesus that night in search of greater light. At the beginning of their conversation, Jesus gently but firmly challenged Nicodemus to move beyond what his human reason alone could comprehend and to walk with the light of faith.As Nicodemus listened and conversed, it seems that his mind and heart were opened, which enabled Jesus to teach him and us the beautiful truth found in today's Gospel. Perhaps as a way of softening His initial challenge, which was meant to help Nicodemus open himself further to the gift of faith, Jesus continued, “For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through him” (John 3:17). Though God is a perfectly just Judge, Jesus' earthly mission was to save us from condemnation, to set us free, to flood our souls with the light of truth, and to enable us to see God through faith in this life and face-to-face in the next. As with Nicodemus, Jesus is able to see any flickering flame of faith within our souls. When He sees it, He will engage us, challenge us, and seek to shine His light more fully within us. He wants not only a flickering flame of light but a radiant light. The more clearly we see, the more firmly our feet are on the path to holiness and the quicker we are able to journey to the source of all light—Jesus Himself.Reflect today on the contrast of light and darkness within your soul. How clearly is your spiritual mind able to perceive all that God wants to reveal to you? If you find yourself lost at times or confused about life, turn to Jesus and beg for light. We must not be among those who prefer “darkness to light.” If the light of the Gospel reveals your sin, do not turn away. Believe that Jesus does not want to condemn you; He wants to free you. He wants you to believe in Him, so that you “might not perish but might have eternal life.” Allow the light to shine brightly within you so that you will find your way to all the treasures God wants to bestow on you.Lord of pure Light, I want to see all that You want to reveal to me. I want to know You, find my way to You, and follow You with clear spiritual sight. Please dispel all darkness within me so that I will understand You and Your will and serve You with all my heart. Jesus, I trust in You.  Image: Jesus Christ and Nicodemus by Matthias StomSource: Free RSS feed from catholic-daily-reflections.com — Copyright © 2026 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. This content is provided solely for personal, non-commercial use. Redistribution, republication, or commercial use — including use within apps with advertising — is strictly prohibited without written permission.

Today’s Topics: 1, 2, 3, 4) Gospel – John 3:1-8 – There was a Pharisee named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. He came to Jesus at night and said to Him, “Rabbi, we know that You are a Teacher Who has come from God, for no one can do these signs that You are doing unless God is with Him.” Jesus answered and said to him, “Amen, amen, I say to you, unless one is born from above, he cannot see the Kingdom of God.” Nicodemus said to Him, “How can a man once grown old be born again? Surely he cannot reenter his mother’s womb and be born again, can he?” Jesus answered, “Amen, amen, I say to you, unless one is born of water and Spirit he cannot enter the Kingdom of God. What is born of flesh is flesh and what is born of spirit is spirit. Do not be amazed that I told you, ‘You must be born from above.’ The wind blows where it wills, and you can hear the sound it makes, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes; so it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.” Memorial of Saint Martin I, Pope and Martyr Saint Martin, pray for us! Bishop Sheen quote of the day  

Jesus' story of the Pharisee and the tax collector flips our instincts—God isn't impressed by our track record, but by a heart that knows it needs mercy. Real faith starts when we stop comparing ourselves to others and come to Him empty-handed.Support the show

Gospel  John 3:7b-15 Jesus said to Nicodemus: "'You must be born from above.' The wind blows where it wills, and you can hear the sound it makes, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes; so it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit." Nicodemus answered and said to him, 'How can this happen?" Jesus answered and said to him, "You are the teacher of Israel and you do not understand this? Amen, amen, I say to you, we speak of what we know and we testify to what we have seen, but you people do not accept our testimony. If I tell you about earthly things and you do not believe, how will you believe if I tell you about heavenly things? No one has gone up to heaven except the one who has come down from heaven, the Son of Man. And just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the desert, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, so that everyone who believes in him may have eternal life.” Reflection Nicodemus was an unusual Pharisee because he wanted to talk to Jesus. He was interested. He was curious about him, but yet he was still part of that company that was so resistant to anything that Jesus would do or would say. And so when he explains something that is impossible to figure out how it works, and he rejects it, in a sense. Jesus saying, Well, you reject everything. Everything I say you people reject even the most ordinary things that I might say that you could easily understand. You say is wrong. You're not open. You are not a listener to what I'm saying. And you're not open to the unusual things, the impossible things, the unexpected things that I promise you. You need to accept. They were blind, blind guides. Closing Prayer Father, create in us an openness, an expectation to receive that which we cannot understand. Our mind is an important part of who we are, but the imagination in our heart can open us to the ways in which you have promised to live with us and be an instrument through us that we cannot fully understand with the mind. Open our heart, open our imaginations. And we ask this in Jesus' name, Amen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alan's Soap https://AlansSoaps.com/ToddHonor John's memory and the legacy he created for Ian and Alan with Alan's Artisan Soaps “John's Favorites” bundle.  Get one bar of each of his favorites for only $28.99. Bulwark Capital https://KnowYourRiskPodcast.comBe confident in your portfolio with Bulwark! Schedule your free Know Your Risk Portfolio review. Go to KnowYourRiskPodcast.com today. Renue Healthcare https://Renue.Healthcare/ToddYour journey to a better life starts at Renue Healthcare. Visit https://Renue.Healthcare/Todd Bonefrog https://BonefrogCoffee.com/ToddGet the new limited release, The Sisterhood, created to honor the extraordinary women behind the heroes. Use code TODD at checkout to receive 10% off your first purchase and 15% on subscriptions.Doug Wilson's Christian Nationalism vs. Biblical Patriotism — What's the Difference? - Faith & Flag //  Why 39% of Boys Are Growing Up Without a Father — And What God Says to Do About It? - Faith & Family // Why Your Body Is a Battleground — The Biblical Case for Physical Discipline - Faith & FitnessEpisode Links:Doug Wilson says that in his preferred Christian nation, anything that Protestants consider to be a "public displays of idolatry" would be banned, including Catholic parades.Acts 5:27-3227 The apostles were brought in and made to appear before the Sanhedrin to be questioned by the high priest. 28 “We gave you strict orders not to teach in this name,” he said. “Yet you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching and are determined to make us guilty of this man's blood.”29 Peter and the other apostles replied: “We must obey God rather than human beings! 30 The God of our ancestors raised Jesus from the dead—whom you killed by hanging him on a cross. 31 God exalted him to his own right hand as Prince and Savior that he might bring Israel to repentance and forgive their sins. 32 We are witnesses of these things, and so is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey him.”Matthew 22:21Paying the Imperial Tax to Caesar15 Then the Pharisees went out and laid plans to trap him in his words. 16 They sent their disciples to him along with the Herodians. “Teacher,” they said, “we know that you are a man of integrity and that you teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. You aren't swayed by others, because you pay no attention to who they are. 17 Tell us then, what is your opinion? Is it right to pay the imperial tax[a] to Caesar or not?”18 But Jesus, knowing their evil intent, said, “You hypocrites, why are you trying to trap me? 19 Show me the coin used for paying the tax.” They brought him a denarius, 20 and he asked them, “Whose image is this? And whose inscription?”21 “Caesar's,” they replied.Then he said to them, “So give back to Caesar what is Caesar's, and to God what is God's.”22 When they heard this, they were amazed. So they left him and went away.Mark 12:28-34The Greatest Commandment28 One of the teachers of the law came and heard them debating. Noticing that Jesus had given them a good answer, he asked him, “Of all the commandments, which is the most important?”29 “The most important one,” answered Jesus, “is this: ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. 30 Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.'31 The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no commandment greater than these.”32 “Well said, teacher,” the man replied. “You are right in saying that God is one and there is no other but him. 33 To love him with all your heart, with all your understanding and with all your strength, and to love your neighbor as yourself is more important than all burnt offerings and sacrifices.”34 When Jesus saw that he had answered wisely, he said to him, “You are not far from the kingdom of God.” And from then on no one dared ask him any more questions.Matthew 5:13-14Salt and Light13 “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.14 “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.Mark 10:42-4542 Jesus called them together and said, “You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. 43 Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, 44 and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. 45 For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”1 Peter 2:13-1713 Submit yourselves for the Lord's sake to every human authority: whether to the emperor, as the supreme authority, 14 or to governors, who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right. 15 For it is God's will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish people. 16 Live as free people, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as God's slaves. 17 Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor.1 Timothy 2:1-2Instructions on Worship2 I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— 2 for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. Former school principal on ADHD meds, "Schools are drugging 6.4 million children for the crime of acting like children."  - "A seven-year-old boy who can't sit still for six hours isn't sick. The system forcing him to sit still... that's sick."Deuteronomy 6:6-96 These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. 7 Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. 8 Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. 9 Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.Proverbs 3:11-1211 My son, do not despise the Lord's discipline,    and do not resent his rebuke,12 because the Lord disciplines those he loves,    as a father the son he delights in.[a]1 Thessalonians 2:11-1211 For you know that we dealt with each of you as a father deals with his own children, 12 encouraging, comforting and urging you to live lives worthy of God, who calls you into his kingdom and glory.

Reach Out: Please include your email and I will get back to you. Thanks!emersonk78@me.comExcel Still More Journal - AmazonNew GENESIS Daily Bible Devotional!Daily Bible Devotional Series - AmazonTitle Sponsor: Tyler Cain, Senior Loan Officer, Statewide MortgageWebsites: https://statewidemortgage.com/https://tylercain.floify.com/Phone: 813-380-8487Sometimes the Bible gets in the way! Today I intended to talk about prayer, but the morning reading in Daniel 6 was just too good! I hope you enjoy the visit to an old story. Have you thought of the four different character types before? And how do they become shadows of Jesus and the grave? Most crucially for today, are you ready to be more like Daniel and Jesus? Do you recognize the quiet, but crucially strong presence of God? Is your trust in Him over the authorities, while also trying to show Christ to the authorities? And do you know how to handle jealous, arrogant people? If these questions intrigue you - please enjoy todays' study. 

Read Online“You are the teacher of Israel and you do not understand this? Amen, amen, I say to you, we speak of what we know and we testify to what we have seen, but you people do not accept our testimony. If I tell you about earthly things and you do not believe, how will you believe if I tell you about heavenly things?” John 3:10–12Today's Gospel continues Jesus' conversation with Nicodemus, a respected Pharisee who came to Jesus at night. Nicodemus began by professing a small amount of faith in Jesus: “Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher who has come from God, for no one can do these signs that you are doing unless God is with him” (John 3:2). Perhaps he expected Jesus to be pleased by this acknowledgment, but Jesus, desiring the complete conversion of Nicodemus' soul, went deeper.Their conversation focused on Jesus' statement, “You must be born from above.” This theme recurs throughout their dialogue, forming the backdrop of today's Gospel. Jesus gently encouraged Nicodemus to move beyond amazement toward a faith made possible only by openness to the Holy Spirit.Like Nicodemus, many of us approach God in prayer with an initial or superficial faith. We acknowledge Jesus' divinity, but this is only the starting point. Once we make that first step, Jesus invites us further, challenging us to delve into divine mysteries with hearts open to grace.Jesus' question, “You are the teacher of Israel and you do not understand this?” signals both a challenge and an invitation. Unlike the harsh rebukes He gave to those who approached with skepticism and disdain, His tone with Nicodemus was firm yet compassionate. Without condemning Nicodemus, Jesus exposed his limited understanding and called him to greater openness to the truth of Jesus' identity and His divine mission.This call to deeper understanding must resonate with us. Jesus invites us to look beyond the surface, beyond what our eyes can see, to the divine mysteries He reveals. He alludes to His crucifixion and His messianic identity when He says, “And just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the desert, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, so that everyone who believes in him may have eternal life” (John 3:14–15). This revelation, veiled and profound, speaks of the mystery of salvation—Jesus, both God and man, being lifted up on the Cross, shedding His blood so that all who believe in Him may attain eternal life.Why does Jesus speak in mysteries? Because the truths He shares can only be fully grasped when we listen to the Holy Spirit within us, guiding and enlightening our souls. Just as the invisible wind can be felt, so too does the Holy Spirit move in our lives, unseen, yet powerful and transformative.Reflect today on how you might be like Nicodemus. The good news is that this Pharisee, once hesitant and questioning, ultimately grew in faith and is commemorated as a saint in the Roman Martyrology on August 31. Like him, we are called to move beyond the surface and deepen our openness to the Holy Spirit. Where in your life can you seek deeper understanding and greater surrender to God's mysterious work? Resolve to listen more intently and to be guided by the Spirit so that you might comprehend the divine mysteries and believe with greater conviction. Lord of all Mysteries, I profess my faith in You. You are my God and my Savior. Only through You—through Your Life, Death, and Resurrection—can I be saved. I profess that I must be born from above by the Spirit so as to share in eternal life. Please strengthen my faith so that I will more fully comprehend and believe all You desire to reveal to me. Jesus, I trust in You.  Image: Jesus and NicodemusSource: Free RSS feed from catholic-daily-reflections.com — Copyright © 2026 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. This content is provided solely for personal, non-commercial use. Redistribution, republication, or commercial use — including use within apps with advertising — is strictly prohibited without written permission.