Podcasts about pure in heart

Ready for more Dallin Oaks stuff? First we talk about a letter Joseph Smith wrote to W.W. Phelps. Then we discuss the law review article  "Ethics, Mortality, and Professional Responsibility", by Dallin Oaks published October 1975 in the BYU Law Review. For the Sword of Laman, we take a look at the first two chapters of Oaks' book Pure In Heart.  We finish it off with some happy news about a judge overturning Trump's block of an off-shore wind project that could power 600,000 homes. Enjoy!    Show Notes:  Letter to W. W. Phelps Jan 11, 1833 https://www.josephsmithpapers.org/paper-summary/letter-to-william-w-phelps-11-january-1833/2#historical-intro Modern D&C 52 https://www.josephsmithpapers.org/paper-summary/revelation-6-june-1831-dc-52/2 Ethics, Morality, and Professional Responsibility by Dallin Oaks http://digitalcommons.law.byu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1039&context=lawreview Wickersham Commission https://www.ebsco.com/research-starters/law/wickersham-commission Criminal Justice in U.S. History https://www.ebsco.com/research-starters/history/criminal-justice-us-history   Sword of Laman: Pure In Heart, by Dallin H. Oaks  Woes of the Pharisees: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Woes_of_the_Pharisees  Cleansing the Inner Vessel by Ezra Taft Benson (April 1986 GenCon): https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1986/04/cleansing-the-inner-vessel?lang=eng  Inspiring Music, Worthy Thoughts by Boyd K Packer (GenCon 1973): https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1973/10/inspiring-music-worthy-thoughts?lang=eng  Worthy Music, Worthy Thoughts (1976 filmstrip): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JJ5Z6AoEKuY  Richard G Scott in April  GenCon 1992: https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1992/04/healing-the-tragic-scars-of-abuse?lang=eng     Happy News: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/feb/02/trump-halted-offshore-wind-project-to-proceed   Other appearances: Chris Shelton interviewed us in the beginning of a series on Mormonism on his Speaking of Cults series. Our most recent discussion was on The Unpaid Army of God: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=de543-d9tME  He has had MANY different fascinating people on so go take a look!  Here is the whole playlist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OpGuS7GcsgA&list=PLGrPM1Pg2h72ADIuv8eYmzrJ-ppLOlw_g   Email: glassboxpodcast@gmail.com  Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/GlassBoxPod  Patreon page for documentary: https://www.patreon.com/SeerStonedProductions BlueSky: @glassboxpodcast.bsky.social  Other BlueSky: @bryceblankenagel.bsky.social and @shannongrover.bsky.social  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/glassboxpodcast/  Merch store: https://www.redbubble.com/people/exmoapparel/shop Or find the merch store by clicking on "Store" here: https://glassboxpodcast.com/index.html One time Paypal donation: bryceblankenagel@gmail.com  Venmo: @Shannon-Grover-10  

The post Blessed Are The Pure In Heart – Matthew 5:8 – February 2, 2026 first appeared on Enduring Word.

Can weakness really become strength? And can ordinary, imperfect people actually become Zion?

CLICK HERE FOR VIDEO to this reflectionMatthew 5: 1-12Now when Jesus saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainsideand sat down. His disciples came to him, and he began to teach them. He said: “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

Matthew 5:1-12   When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain; and after he sat down, his disciples came to him. Then he began to speak, and taught them, saying: “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. “Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. “Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy. “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. “Blessed are you when people revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you."

The Beatitudes. The beginning of the Sermon on the Mount. We ask Sarah Stenson and Lars Olson: What is Jesus conveying in this sermon and how can preachers build on that in their own sermons? How do Christians misconstrue this text to be an instruction manual for being a good person?And how are you actually blessed when people revile you, persecute you, and utter all kinds of evil against you? CARE OF SOULS - ADDICTIONIn Care of Souls, a special mini-series podcast from Luther House of Study, Lutheran pastors and theologians come together to explore the deeply personal and pastoral task of preaching to and caring for those struggling with life's challenging situations: addiction, death, family disharmony, and more. With conversations, real-life stories, and reflections from the front lines of ministry, Care of Souls equips listeners to enter the broken places of addiction not with easy answers, but with the crucified and risen Christ.Because in the end, it's not about fixing people—it's about preaching the Gospel.Listen to Care of Souls wherever you listen to podcasts or on the Luther House website: Care of Souls - AddictionCONFIRMATION Does your church have a confirmation class? Luther House of Study is excited to present a comprehensive online confirmation curriculum. The curriculum includes interactive digital lessons and supplemental teacher guides featuring custom videos, quizzes, drag and drop tasks, discussion questions, scripture passages, and prayers about the Apostles' Creed, the 10 Commandments, the Lord's Prayer, and the Sacraments. Visit lutherhouseofstudy.org/confirmation to dive into the curriculum and share it with your church or your pastor. SING TO THE LORD Martin Luther said, "Next to the word of God, the art of music is the greatest treasure in the world." To understand the importance of hymnody in the Lutheran church, Lars Olson and Mason Van Essen sit down with Zachary Brockhoff to discuss the lectionary's hymns, their meaning and history, and how the music preaches the Gospel. 

What if resistance is proof that you're living out your faith correctly? In the final Beatitude, Jesus reframes persecution as a pathway to joy, authority, and spiritual maturity. This episode explores why obedience invites opposition, how subtle attacks test conviction, and what faithful leaders must be prepared for. Press play to discover why persecution isn't failure, it's formation. Key Takeaways To Listen ForHow persecution can actually signal obedience rather than failureThe subtle ways spiritual resistance shows up through doubt, exclusion, and dismissalWhy joy grounded in Christ remains steady even when circumstances changeWhat faithfulness reveals in others when it challenges comfort or compromiseHow enduring opposition shapes resilient, long-term Christian leadershipResources Mentioned In This EpisodeEP280: Blessed are the Poor in Spirit EP284: Blessed are Those Who Mourn EP289: Blessed are the Meek EP292: Blessed are those who HungerEP297: Blessed are the Merciful with Joe Thompson and Travis RevelleEP309: Blessed are the Pure In Heart with Joe Thompson and Travis RevelleEP310: Blessed are the Peacemakers with Joe Thompson and Travis RevelleConnect With UsMaster your context with real results leadership training!To learn more, visit our website at www.greatsummit.com.For tax, bookkeeping, or accounting help, contact Dr. Nate's team at www.theincometaxcenter.com or send an email to info@theincometaxcenter.com.Follow Dr. Nate on His Social MediaLinkedIn: Nate Salah, Ph.DInstagram: @natesalah Facebook: Nate SalahTikTok: @drnatesalahClubhouse: @natesalah

In this episode, we continue through the Sermon on the Mount as Jesus reveals the heart of Kingdom ethics—calling us to examine our inner life, our relationships, and our unwavering commitment to Him. We explore what it means to be pure in heart, to live as true peacemakers, to remain faithful under pressure, and to embody our calling as salt and light in the world. This message confronts shallow religion and invites us into a life of authentic discipleship—where transformed hearts lead to visible impact and God alone receives the glory. ______________________________________________________________________________________ NEW HERE? We'd love to connect with you. Text "NEW" to 323-405-3232 SERMON NOTES: www.bible.com/organizations/f223…-a8fc-3297da42c26a - Or Text: "SERMON" To: 323-405-3232 CONNECT WITH US: Hopeland Website: www.hopelandla.com Hopeland Podcast: @steinbot-519314947 Hopeland YouTube: www.youtube.com/@hopelandchurch Hopeland Facebook: @hopelandla Hopeland Instagram: @hopeland.church To support this ministry and help us continue to reach people with the gospel click here: hopelandla.com/give Or, choose a giving option here: - Venmo: @Hopeland-Church - CashApp: $HopelandChurch - Zelle: shawn@hopelandla.com - Text "Hopeland" to 833-767-5698

When we have pure hearts, we can see truth, life and love. It is God's desire that our choices are for the goodness of others, to store up love that will flow like a river from our lips, refreshing our families, our friends and whomever we meet. All are thirsty. Everyone needs to be loved, to belong, to know they matter – to someone. God, would you open our hearts to love as You do?Daylight Meditations is a daily podcast from CFO North America. Please visit CFONorthAmerica.org to learn more about our retreats, and online courses. If you are encouraged by this podcast, please consider supporting us. Contributors: Michelle DeChant, Nancy Holland, Adam Maddock, and Joy Peyton

Proverbs 16

Effective Christian leadership requires peacemaking, not peacekeeping. In this episode, the hosts explore the Beatitude “Blessed are the peacemakers” and explain how internal peace drives healthier leadership, conflict resolution, and faith-based decisions in business and family life. Listen now to learn why courage and clarity are essential to lasting peace.Key Takeaways To Listen ForHow peacemakers actively create peace instead of avoiding hard conversationsThe key difference between peacekeeping and peacemaking, and why it mattersWhy internal peace must come first before external peace is possibleHow true peacemaking requires courage, strength, and emotional maturityWhen walking away is not failure, but a necessary act of peacemakingResources Mentioned In This EpisodeEP280: Blessed are the Poor in Spirit EP284: Blessed are Those Who Mourn EP289: Blessed are the Meek EP292: Blessed are those who HungerEP297: Blessed are the Merciful with Joe Thompson and Travis RevelleEP309: Blessed are the Pure In Heart with Joe Thompson and Travis RevelleConnect With UsMaster your context with real results leadership training!To learn more, visit our website at www.greatsummit.com.For tax, bookkeeping, or accounting help, contact Dr. Nate's team at www.theincometaxcenter.com or send an email to info@theincometaxcenter.com.Follow Dr. Nate on His Social MediaLinkedIn: Nate Salah, Ph.DInstagram: @natesalah Facebook: Nate SalahTikTok: @drnatesalahClubhouse: @natesalah

Words of Christ from the blessed “Sermon on the Mount” are just as true and needful today. What a pursuit to be pure in heart—from the “beatitudes,” or “attitudes to BEcome.”

Strong Christian leadership is rooted in clarity, not control. In this episode, we will unpack the Beatitude “pure in heart” and explain how internal clarity fuels faith-driven leadership, wiser decisions, and lasting personal growth. Listen now to learn why aligned motives create stronger leaders and healthier lives.Key Takeaways To Listen ForHow the Beatitudes shape leadership at home, not just in faithTeaching “pure in heart” through clarity, not perfectionRecognizing mixed motives in parenting decisionsWhy internal clarity brings peace to family leadershipHow surrender strengthens you as a parent and guideResources Mentioned In This EpisodeEP280: Blessed are the Poor in Spirit EP284: Blessed are Those Who Mourn EP289: Blessed are the Meek EP292: Blessed are those who HungerEP297: Blessed are the Merciful with Joe Thompson and Travis RevelleConnect With UsMaster your context with real results leadership training!To learn more, visit our website at www.greatsummit.com.For tax, bookkeeping, or accounting help, contact Dr. Nate's team at www.theincometaxcenter.com or send an email to info@theincometaxcenter.com.Follow Dr. Nate on His Social MediaLinkedIn: Nate Salah, Ph.DInstagram: @natesalah Facebook: Nate SalahTikTok: @drnatesalahClubhouse: @natesalah

This is the time of year when we often say, “Merry Christmas”and “Happy New Year.” Christmas has already passed, and now we are preparing tobegin a new year. I'm not so sure that “Happy New Year” is always the bestexpression, because happiness, for the most part, is based on happenings. Ifeverything goes well—if things turn out the way I want them to—then I'm happy.If something happens that I don't like, then I'm unhappy. What we really oughtto say is, “Have a blessed New Year.” Jesustells us what it means to be blessed in Matthew 5. “Blessed are the poor inspirit. Blessed are the meek. Blessed are the pure in heart. Blessed are thepeacemakers.” He gives us about eight “blesseds.” What He is teaching us isthis: when you are blessed by God—when you do what you ought to do in the powerof the Holy Spirit—you will experience true happiness. You will have joy inyour heart. Why? Because you are trusting the Lord with every area of yourlife. To be truly blessed is to have God's smile on your life and even in thetough and difficult times you know the God has your back and that all thingswill work together for good (Romans 8:28).  Thatkind of life happens as we discipline ourselves as disciples of Jesus Christ todo the right things. That is why we are talking about 1 Timothy 4:7, where Paulwrites to Timothy and says, “Have nothing to do with worldly fables fit onlyfor old women.” In other words, don't waste your time with worldly stories,distractions, or ideas that have no lasting value—and often aren't even true.We can get so distracted by what's going on socially, economically, orpolitically. Paul says, Don't give your time and attention to those things. “Onthe other hand, discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness. For bodilydiscipline is only of little profit, but godliness is profitable for allthings.”We want to talk about what it means to be disciplined for the purpose ofgodliness. As we said yesterday, discipline means that you go to the spiritualgym, so to speak. You put yourself in the pathway of God's grace. You do thethings that build spiritual growth in your life. You establish a foundation forliving each day by doing what you ought to do, rather than simply what you feellike doing. My friend, that takes discipline to be in the Word of God. TheApostle Paul, in 2 Timothy 2:3-6, told Timothy to be a good soldier of JesusChrist. That speaks of the discipline of a soldier. Then he goes on to talkabout an athlete—how an athlete trains and disciplines himself in order to winthe prize. He also speaks of the discipline of a farmer—a hardworking farmerwho gets up early, sows at the right time of year, and does what he may notalways want to do, but must do if he is going to reap a harvest in the fall.  Myfriend, that is description of the Christian life that pleases the Lord. Wedon't do this in our own strength. We do it in the strength and power of theHoly Spirit and by the energy He supplies as we set our hearts on pleasing Himand doing what is right every day. Yes,physical exercise profits a little. It is good to eat right and to exerciseproperly. But my friend, it is far more profitable to pursue godliness.Godliness affects our relationship with God. It shapes our character. Itinfluences our relationships with others. It impacts our peace, our wisdom, andour joy—and ultimately, even our eternity.  Noticethat Paul says godliness holds “promise for the present life and also forthe life to come.” It matters now, and it matters forever. When youdiscipline yourself for this purpose, you are not only living to please theLord today—you are living with eternity in view. Your sights are set on heaven,on the day when you will stand before the Lord and hear, “Well done, thougood and faithful servant.” 

*Listen to the Show notes and podcast transcript with this multi-language player. Summary “Creating a Pure Kingdom Atmosphere” explores how purity of spirit shapes the environment in which God moves. Each speaker emphasizes the inner condition of the heart—brokenness, humility, confession, and right motivation—as the essential foundation for maintaining a spiritual atmosphere where revelation, healing, and unity flourish. The episode stresses that a pure atmosphere is not something we enter; it is something we become. By refusing to relate to one another after the flesh, confronting our reactions, embracing God's dealings, and pressing on to know the Lord, we create an atmosphere where His presence is free to work in and through the Body of Christ. Show Notes 1. Purity Creates Atmosphere - A pure spirit purifies the environment around us. - The pure in heart see God (Matt. 5:8). - Jesus could not perform miracles among those who knew Him after the flesh. - We must know one another after the Spirit. 2. The Formula for Purity - Psalm 51:17: A broken spirit and contrite heart create an atmosphere God receives. 3. Entering a Pure Atmosphere - Humility and contrition open the door to God's presence. 4. Confession and Reactions - Confessing sins cleans the air spiritually. - Hidden reactions obstruct personal and communal growth. - Even small attitudes shape atmosphere. 5. Evaluating the Spirit, Not Deeds - True evaluation is the motivation of the spirit. - Past victories or failures cannot define us. 6. God's Loving Wounding - God exposes, heals, and purifies. - Hosea 6:1–3—He tears and heals. 7. Becoming the Atmosphere - By God's grace, we become the spiritual atmosphere for one another. Key Quotes “A pure spirit can purify the atmosphere.” — Dale“A broken spirit and a contrite heart: there is the formula.” — Pauline“If I react against someone, I hinder their growth and my own.” — Linda“All you can evaluate is the motivation of your spirit.” — Pat“The Lord can lance wounds and heal them—He can hurt you and bind you up again.” — Debbie Scriptural References Matthew 5:8 — Blessed are the pure in...

“Matthew 5:8 | The Pure in Heart Will See God” from Lakeshore Baptist Church by Pastor David Green. Released: 2025. Genre: Preaching. The post Matthew 5:8 | The Pure in Heart Will See God appeared first on Lakeshore Baptist Church.

Send us a textWhat if having a pure heart has less to do with our actions or more to do with our motives? In this episode, Fawn Ellerbrook discusses Matthew 5:8 with Tabitha and Brian Caplinger, and we're challenged to understand that spiritual flourishing isn't about checking boxes or maintaining a perfect image. Instead, it's about the internal work God does within us when we position ourselves in the right place. The Hebrew understanding of 'heart' reveals it as the center of our intellectual and emotional life, where our desires, affections, and choices originate. This means purity isn't about following a religious checklist; it's about having undivided allegiance to God, with motives aligned to His will rather than our own self-protection or image management. ____What Matters Most is a podcast from Faith Community Church. Connect on socials:FacebookInstagramYouTube channelNo matter where you're at on your journey, you are welcome here.Faith Community Churchinfo@faithcommunity.co636.671.4190

Purity isn't just about appearance — it's about the heart. ❤️

Swami Mahayogananda gave this spiritual talk in the Santa Barbara temple on December 21, 2025. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Feeling poor in spirit? Mourning? Hungry for God? Yeshua calls you blessed! The Sermon on the Mount is comfort for the weary and hope for the humble—Torah that transforms us and brings heaven to earth. The Torah from the Mountain calls us to be a different kind of people—humble, merciful, peacemakers, pure in heart. Check it out in this past week's sermon on the New Covenant Portion, Matthew 5:1-16: Torah from the Mountain: Blessed are the Humble.

Witness the ultimate act of faith and forgiveness as Stephen, the first martyr, sees the heavens open and prays for his persecutors.In this episode, experience the powerful and poignant story of Stephen, the first Christian martyr, and his unwavering faith even in the face of death. Discover the purity of heart that allowed him to see Jesus and forgive his enemies.Today's Bible verse is (Matthew 5:8, from the King James Version.Download the Pray.com app for more Christian content including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.Pray.com is the digital destination for faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God." — Matthew 5:8

Unlock God Mode is the most powerful work I've ever created — a 30-day journey designed to help you embody your highest self. Inside, you'll find transmissions that lift your state of being and practical exercises that help you live with more clarity, integrity, and intention. It's everything I've integrated from my own spiritual path, psychedelic explorations, and the wisdom of my teachers and mentors, distilled into one powerful framework.Think of it as walking side by side with me — not just listening to my guests, but experiencing the exact practices that have transformed my life.

This month's theme is The Heart!We go through all the scriptures twice in this episode. 1. Matthew 5:8Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.(RSV2CE translation)2. Matthew 6:21For where your treasure is, there also will your heart be.(NAB translation)3. Proverbs 4:23With all vigilance guard your heart, for in it are the sources of life.(NAB translation)4. Samuel 16:7b“…the LORD sees not as man sees; man looks on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart.” (RSV2CE translation)

Jesus said the poor in spirit, the pure in heart, and the peacemakers will experience true happiness, yet those who seem to be having the best life often care little about what Jesus has to say. Why are we tempted to lose faith in the promise of Jesus? If you have ever found yourself wondering, then Psalm 73 is here to anchor you.

This sermon unpacks Jesus' beatitude, "Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God," and shows that this is not an impossible command for Christians but a real description of those who have received a new heart in Christ. Drawing from passages like Jeremiah 17, Ezekiel 36, Psalm 24, Hebrews 11, and Exodus 33, it contrasts the deceitful heart of the unregenerate with the Spirit-transformed heart that can pursue purity, blamelessness, and obedience. The preacher presses believers to live consciously in God's presence, to train their hearts by thinking on what is true and lovely, to beware of sliding into sin, and to see God's glory both now—in creation, common grace, and human gifting—and fully in the age to come.

This sermon unpacks Jesus' beatitude, "Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God," and shows that this is not an impossible command for Christians but a real description of those who have received a new heart in Christ. Drawing from passages like Jeremiah 17, Ezekiel 36, Psalm 24, Hebrews 11, and Exodus 33, it contrasts the deceitful heart of the unregenerate with the Spirit-transformed heart that can pursue purity, blamelessness, and obedience. The preacher presses believers to live consciously in God's presence, to train their hearts by thinking on what is true and lovely, to beware of sliding into sin, and to see God's glory both now—in creation, common grace, and human gifting—and fully in the age to come.

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Witness the ultimate act of faith and forgiveness as Stephen, the first martyr, sees the heavens open and prays for his persecutors.In this episode, experience the powerful and poignant story of Stephen, the first Christian martyr, and his unwavering faith even in the face of death. Discover the purity of heart that allowed him to see Jesus and forgive his enemies.Today's Bible verse is (Matthew 5:8, from the King James Version.Download the Pray.com app for more Christian content including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.Pray.com is the digital destination for faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Today on LEADING THE WAY, Dr. Michael Youssef encourages you to listen closely to the words of Jesus in Matthew chapter five! As you do, you'll experience HAPPINESS through a PURE heart . . . on LEADING THE WAY AUDIO! (Matthew 5) Support the show: https://au.ltw.org/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's devotional, Dr. Michael A. Youssef clarifies two different aspects of purity.If you would like more insight into today's devotional topic, listen to Dr. Michael A. Youssef's sermon Happiness Is in You, Part 6: LISTEN NOW

We're so glad you are here! Thanks for checking out Sunday's message!-- SUNDAY'S NOTES --The heart of the matter is a matter of the heart. Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life. Psalm 139:23-24 NLTLevav / Heart: The center of character, will, and understanding. The place you think, feel, desire, and decide. Kardia: the inner self, thoughts, emotions, desires, and decisions. The control center of human life.(Read verses 7-8) The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick; who can understand it? I the LORD search the heart and test the mind, to give every man according to his ways, according to the fruit of his deeds. Jeremiah 17:9-10 ESVWe cannot have a heart that is whole without the help and healing of the Lord. The LORD doesn't see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart. 1 Samuel 16:7 NLTHeart health doesn't come from either emotional limitation or liberation, but instead emotions surrendered to and sorted by Jesus. Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God's love and keep you strong. Ephesians 3:17 NLTSteward your heart by giving your heart to God! Thus says the LORD, he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. Isaiah 43:1 ESVIt is impossible to live a life meaning with the Lord without a heart that is whole and His.Don't you realize that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself, for God bought you with a high price. So you must honor God with your body. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 NLTThe Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18 ESVGod can only guide and guard the heart He governs, and He will only govern the heart he owns. 2) Steward your Heart by Guarding your Heart! Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life. Proverbs 3:23 NLTGod doesn't just want your habits, He wants your heart! Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king's delicacies. Daniel 1:8 NKJVDaniel lived in Babylon, but Babylon didn't live in Daniel. Can we live found in a world that's lost it's way or live free in a culture of captivity? - Yes!A guarded heart is anchored in Godly identity, not the worldly environment or culture.3) Steward your heart by choosing to have a heart for after God.Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart. Psalm 37:4 ESVBlessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. Matthew 5:8 ESVFor where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Matthew 6:21 ESV-------------------------------------------------Download the 828 Church app!To view our latest e-newsletter, the Midweek Momentum, and subscribe to our weekly updates, go here! https://linktr.ee/828church

We're so glad you are here! Thanks for checking out Sunday's message!-- SUNDAY'S NOTES --The heart of the matter is a matter of the heart. Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life. Psalm 139:23-24 NLTLevav / Heart: The center of character, will, and understanding. The place you think, feel, desire, and decide. Kardia: the inner self, thoughts, emotions, desires, and decisions. The control center of human life.(Read verses 7-8) The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick; who can understand it? I the LORD search the heart and test the mind, to give every man according to his ways, according to the fruit of his deeds. Jeremiah 17:9-10 ESVWe cannot have a heart that is whole without the help and healing of the Lord. The LORD doesn't see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart. 1 Samuel 16:7 NLTHeart health doesn't come from either emotional limitation or liberation, but instead emotions surrendered to and sorted by Jesus. Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God's love and keep you strong. Ephesians 3:17 NLTSteward your heart by giving your heart to God! Thus says the LORD, he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. Isaiah 43:1 ESVIt is impossible to live a life meaning with the Lord without a heart that is whole and His.Don't you realize that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself, for God bought you with a high price. So you must honor God with your body. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 NLTThe Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18 ESVGod can only guide and guard the heart He governs, and He will only govern the heart he owns. 2) Steward your Heart by Guarding your Heart! Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life. Proverbs 3:23 NLTGod doesn't just want your habits, He wants your heart! Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king's delicacies. Daniel 1:8 NKJVDaniel lived in Babylon, but Babylon didn't live in Daniel. Can we live found in a world that's lost it's way or live free in a culture of captivity? - Yes!A guarded heart is anchored in Godly identity, not the worldly environment or culture.3) Steward your heart by choosing to have a heart for after God.Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart. Psalm 37:4 ESVBlessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. Matthew 5:8 ESVFor where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Matthew 6:21 ESV-------------------------------------------------Download the 828 Church app!To view our latest e-newsletter, the Midweek Momentum, and subscribe to our weekly updates, go here! https://linktr.ee/828church

A sermon on Matthew 5:8 by pastor Andrew Dionne. Preached on November 23, 2025, evening service, at Trinity Presbyterian Church (Evangel Presbytery) in Spartanburg, SC.

Discover what Jesus taught us about the heart and mind of an ideal disciple. Join us as we examine the remaining beatitudes of Jesus in Matthew 5:7-12 with our guest, Danny Daley. Together, we'll explore what Jesus taught us when he described the merciful, the pure in heart, the peacemakers, and the persecuted as blessed. Then we'll discuss how understanding and cultivating the dispositions Jesus described in the Beatitudes in our lives of discipleship gives the world a glimpse of God's kingdom here on earth. 

What if perfection wasn't about behaving flawlessly - but about expressing mercy from who you already are? In this episode of Two Pastors and a Mic, Cory and Channock unpack the eBook How to Be Perfect, and they flip the entire idea of perfection on its head. Instead of moral pressure and performance, they explore Jesus' teaching that perfection looks like mercy, not mastery - and how experiencing God's love transforms the way we express it to others.You'll hear:

Matthew 5 & John 12 | Everyone wants to be happy, but what if everything we thought about the way to get it was wrong? What if ‘the good life' – or ‘the blessed life' as Jesus calls it in his very first sermon – was found in the very places we often try to avoid? Tune in to hear our series on The Beatitudes, where we learn about the life God calls us to, how it looks nothing like we think, and why it's better than we could ever imagine.

Guiding Question: What are the hidden dangers that sabotage a man's adventure—and are you letting any of them define you? Key Takeaways: Beware the “Adventure Busters”: Robert Lewis introduces the concept of “Adventure Busters”—internal and external forces that derail a man's pursuit of a meaningful life. These include secret sins, unresolved wounds, or culturally normalized behaviors that quietly erode a man's soul and impact. The Double Life: One of the most common and destructive adventure busters. Many men compartmentalize their lives, presenting a polished exterior while hiding secret struggles. This leads to fragmentation, isolation, and eventual collapse. Living two lives is exhausting. It robs men of authenticity, joy, and real intimacy. The only solution is courageous honesty—first with God, then with safe others. Sexual Shortcuts: Robert Lewis directly confronts the destructive influence of pornography and casual sexual behavior. These “shortcuts” promise intimacy and excitement, but deliver shame and disconnection. Pornography is not just a private issue—it affects how men see women, relationships, and themselves. Sexual purity is not about repression but restoration—recovering God's good design for sex. God's Design for Sex: It is good, powerful, and purposeful. Meant to be expressed in covenantal love—marriage. Misuse leads to wounds, while rightly ordered sex brings deep joy and unity. Shame Is a Lie: Lewis makes clear: the goal is not to heap guilt, but to extend grace and freedom. Every man has struggles. What matters is whether you stay stuck in silence or step forward into healing. Five Practical Tools for Restoration: Personal honesty – Acknowledge the problem without rationalizing it. Accountability – Regular check-ins with trustworthy men. Boundaries – Proactively avoid triggers and access points. Spiritual renewal – Prayer, Scripture, and surrender. Vision – See purity not as avoidance but as a greater “yes” to joy and impact. Setting Up for Part 2: This is part one of a two-part teaching. Lewis hints that next week will cover more adventure busters—wounds, lies, and unresolved issues from a man's past that continue to shape his present. Key Scripture References: Ephesians 5:11–14 – Exposing deeds of darkness and walking in light. Matthew 5:8 – “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.” Proverbs 4:23 – Guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life. 1 Thessalonians 4:3–5 – God's will: sanctification and sexual purity. James 5:16 – Confess your sins to one another and be healed. Romans 12:1–2 – Present your bodies as a living sacrifice; be transformed by renewing your mind.

QUOTES FOR REFLECTION“The church…is not meant to call men and women out of the world into a safe religious enclave but to call them out in order to send them back as agents of God's kingship.”~Lesslie Newbigin (1909-1998), British theologian and missionary “The people who heard Jesus' disciples proclaiming the Good News were as impressed by what they saw as by what they heard. They saw lives that had been transformed…. A new quality, Christian love, was born. Conventional love is evoked by lovable qualities in the beloved, but the love people encountered from Christ embraced sinners and outcasts, Samaritans and enemies. It gave…because giving was its nature.”~Huston Smith (1919-2016), religious scholar and chair of the Philosophy Department at MIT “Why do we not observe how the charity of Christians to strangers…has done the most to advance their cause? For it is disgraceful…the impious Galileans support our poor in addition to their own, while everyone is able to see that our coreligionists lack aid from us!”~The Pagan Roman Emperor Julian (332-363), Letter to Arsacius, 360 AD “Why among all of the varieties of Judaism in the first century did only two survive….? One, the religion of the Rabbis – the other, the religion of Christianity. [This] rather improbable message that the Son of God has come to earth and been crucified, in human form, and risen from the dead ... appealed to a lot of perfectly ordinary people…in such a way that they were willing…to become initiated into a group which brought them only hostility, estrangement from their families and neighbors, and the possibility of persecution to the point of death.”~Wayne A. Meeks (1932-2023), Religious Studies Professor at Yale University “I believe that it was the religion's particular doctrines that permitted Christianity to be among the most sweeping and successful revitalization movements in history. And it was the way these doctrines took on actual flesh, the way they directed organizational actions and individual behavior, that led to the rise of Christianity.”~Sociologist Rodney Stark (1934-2022) in The Rise of Christianity “Assist…one another in good faith, and by deed and with a hearty will; nor let anyone remove his hand from the help of a brother, since ‘by this' saith the Lord, ‘shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.'”~Zephyrinus, bishop of Rome from A.D. 199 to 217 on John 13:35 “The person characterized by humility, gentleness, mercy and righteousness does not build a fence around good deeds. Rather, that one ensures that these good fountains overflow for the benefit of others. One who is pure in heart and a peacemaker, even when persecuted for the sake of truth, orders his way of life for the common good.”~John Chrysostom (347-407) revered early church leader in homily on Matthew 5SERMON PASSAGE selected passages (ESV)Genesis 12 1 Now the Lord said to Abram, “Go from your country and your kindred and your father's house to the land that I will show you. 2 And I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing. 3 I will bless those who bless you, and him who dishonors you I will curse, and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.” Psalm 671 May God be gracious to us and bless us and make his face to shine upon us, Selah2 that your way may be known on earth, your saving power among all nations. Isaiah 22 It shall come to pass in the latter days that the mountain of the house of the Lord shall be established as the highest of the mountains, and shall be lifted up above the hills; and all the nations shall flow to it,3 and many peoples shall come, and say: “Come, let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the house of the God of Jacob, that he may teach us his ways and that we may walk in his paths.” For out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem. Matthew 5 – Jesus's Teaching to His Disciples 10 “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11 Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. 12 Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.13 You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people's feet. 14 You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” Matthew 1 1 The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham. Matthew 28 – Jesus's Commission to the Church 18 And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” John 13 – Jesus's Commandment to the Church 34 “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. 35 By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” John 17 – Jesus's Prayer for the Church 20 “I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, 21 that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me. 22 The glory that you have given me I have given to them, that they may be one even as we are one, 23 I in them and you in me, that they may become perfectly one, so that the world may know that you sent me and loved them even as you loved me.”

Have you ever wondered what it means to truly live in peace while standing firm in your faith? Pastor Dave delivers a powerful message on the transformative power of being a peacemaker and persevering through persecution. Drawing from the Beatitudes, he reveals how pursuing peace isn't passive—it requires actively choosing reconciliation even when relationships are strained. Through vivid examples and Scripture, Pastor Dave shows that persecution often comes when we take bold stands for righteousness, but this shouldn't discourage us. Instead, we're called to "rejoice and be exceedingly glad," knowing our eternal reward far outweighs temporary struggles. Whether you're facing relational conflicts or feeling attacked for your faith, this timely message offers practical wisdom for walking as a peacemaker while remaining unshakeable in your convictions. Don't miss this inspiring conclusion to the Beatitudes series!Matthew 5:1-12 And seeing the multitudes, He went up on a mountain, and when He was seated His disciples came to Him. 2 Then He opened His mouth and taught them, saying:3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit,For theirs is the kingdom of heaven.4 Blessed are those who mourn,For they shall be comforted.5 Blessed are the meek,For they shall inherit the [a]earth.6 Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,For they shall be filled.7 Blessed are the merciful,For they shall obtain mercy.8 Blessed are the pure in heart,For they shall see God.9 Blessed are the peacemakers,For they shall be called sons of God.10 Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake,For theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11 Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. 12 Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.Hebrews 12:14 Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord:Romans 12:18 As much as you can, live in peace with all men. KJV as much as it lies with you2 Corinthians 4:9 persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed—

Have you ever wondered what it means to truly live in peace while standing firm in your faith? Pastor Dave delivers a powerful message on the transformative power of being a peacemaker and persevering through persecution. Drawing from the Beatitudes, he reveals how pursuing peace isn't passive—it requires actively choosing reconciliation even when relationships are strained. Through vivid examples and Scripture, Pastor Dave shows that persecution often comes when we take bold stands for righteousness, but this shouldn't discourage us. Instead, we're called to "rejoice and be exceedingly glad," knowing our eternal reward far outweighs temporary struggles. Whether you're facing relational conflicts or feeling attacked for your faith, this timely message offers practical wisdom for walking as a peacemaker while remaining unshakeable in your convictions. Don't miss this inspiring conclusion to the Beatitudes series!Matthew 5:1-12 And seeing the multitudes, He went up on a mountain, and when He was seated His disciples came to Him. 2 Then He opened His mouth and taught them, saying:3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit,For theirs is the kingdom of heaven.4 Blessed are those who mourn,For they shall be comforted.5 Blessed are the meek,For they shall inherit the [a]earth.6 Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,For they shall be filled.7 Blessed are the merciful,For they shall obtain mercy.8 Blessed are the pure in heart,For they shall see God.9 Blessed are the peacemakers,For they shall be called sons of God.10 Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake,For theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11 Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. 12 Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.Hebrews 12:14 Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord:Romans 12:18 As much as you can, live in peace with all men. KJV as much as it lies with you2 Corinthians 4:9 persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed—

What does it mean to be "pure in heart" and why does Jesus promise that those who pursue purity will see God? In this powerful message on Matthew 5:8, we explore the radical promise of spiritual intimacy that comes through purity of heart.In This Episode:Understanding what "blessed are the pure in heart" really meansWhy purity isn't restriction—it's the path to seeing GodHow singularity of heart leads to deeper intimacy with ChristThe difference between positional and progressive purityPractical steps to pursue purity in your daily walkWhy resisting sin shouldn't feel like holding your breathKey Timestamps:The Nature of Purity (10:54)The Promise: They Shall See God (16:57)The Pursuit: 5 Practical Steps (24:20)The world says purity is restrictive, but Jesus says it's the doorway to experiencing the nearness of God. This isn't just about sexual purity—it's about unmixed devotion, singularity of affection, and positioning your heart to truly know and see God.Bible Verses Referenced: Matthew 5:8, Psalm 119, James 4:8, 1 Thessalonians 4:3, Ezekiel 18:31, 1 John 3, Psalm 86, Proverbs 23:7, John 14:1Practical Applications:Draw near to God's WordWalk with the wiseMake no provision for the fleshPray for purityThink with total commitment to ChristThis episode is brought to you by our ministry partner Accountable2You. To join thousands living in Freedom with nothing to hide visit https://accountable2you.com/dialin. **Use our unique code: DIALIN to get 25% off your first year of an Accountable2You Personal or Family Plan**

This month's theme is The Heart!(this episode was re-recorded because the other episode wrongly said Matthew 5:5)Matthew 5:8Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.****PATREON: For downloadable and printable PDFs of each scripture verse, support us on Patreon at Patreon.com/JackieandBobby at the $5/month level!***“Memorize Scripture” Book NOW AVAILABLE!Get 10% off!Link to Order:https://avemariapress.com/?ref=JACKIE10PROMO CODE: JACKIE10

They say two heads are better than one—but Dr. Tony Evans warns about the dangers of being double-minded and shows why having a single focus on God is so essential.

They say two heads are better than one—but Dr. Tony Evans warns about the dangers of being double-minded and shows why having a single focus on God is so essential.