Podcasts about read luke

Harvest: Greg Laurie Audio

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 14, 2025 37:30

If God can perfectly order the events of the Christmas story, we can entrust Him with stories of our own. We should mirror Mary's surrender and submission to God's plan. Notes: Galatians 4:4 (NKJV)But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law. READ Luke 1:26–33 #1 God Is Always On Time Luke 1:28 (NKJV)“Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!” Luke 1:29 (NKJV)But when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and considered what manner of greeting this was. God is always on time. READ Luke 1:34–38 #2 God’s Timing Requires Our Surrender Luke 1:38 (NKJV)“Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” Matthew 6:10 (NKJV)Your kingdom come.Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. READ Mark 8:34–36 God’s plan is always better. Surrender doesn’t mean God makes everything comfortable.It means God makes everything count. Surrender always leads to Christ. Psalm 84:10 (NKJV)For a day in Your courts is better than a thousand.I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my Godthan dwell in the tents of wickedness. “He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose.”—Jim Elliott READ Luke 1:39–45 #3 Our Obedience Has A Radius Luke 1:15 (NKJV)For he will be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink. He will also be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb. What is God asking you to do? What areas in your life is God calling you to submit and surrender? Too many Christians are satisfied with comfort when God is offering conquest. Obey God.Submit to scripture.Live a life of integrity committed to God. Let it be to me according to your word. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When the Time Was Just Right | Sunday Message (Pastor Jonathan Laurie)

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 14, 2025 37:30

If God can perfectly order the events of the Christmas story, we can entrust Him with stories of our own. We should mirror Mary's surrender and submission to God's plan. Notes: Galatians 4:4 (NKJV)But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law. READ Luke 1:26–33 #1 God Is Always On Time Luke 1:28 (NKJV)“Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!” Luke 1:29 (NKJV)But when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and considered what manner of greeting this was. God is always on time. READ Luke 1:34–38 #2 God’s Timing Requires Our Surrender Luke 1:38 (NKJV)“Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” Matthew 6:10 (NKJV)Your kingdom come.Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. READ Mark 8:34–36 God’s plan is always better. Surrender doesn’t mean God makes everything comfortable.It means God makes everything count. Surrender always leads to Christ. Psalm 84:10 (NKJV)For a day in Your courts is better than a thousand.I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my Godthan dwell in the tents of wickedness. “He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose.”—Jim Elliott READ Luke 1:39–45 #3 Our Obedience Has A Radius Luke 1:15 (NKJV)For he will be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink. He will also be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb. What is God asking you to do? What areas in your life is God calling you to submit and surrender? Too many Christians are satisfied with comfort when God is offering conquest. Obey God.Submit to scripture.Live a life of integrity committed to God. Let it be to me according to your word. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Advent 2025 Part 1 - Reflection on Hope: Claire Wallace

Wellspring Message Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 12, 2025 14:40

The Advent season begins at Wellspring with a meditative prayer service, beginning with a reflection by Claire Wallace. Originally shared November 30, 2025. To follow along at home, please visit https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1BjSSFf9Ww/ for pictures of the guided prayer exercises, or follow the instructions below for a Lectio Divina, or inspired reading. 1. Read Luke 1:26-38. 2. Focus on a word or phrase that stood out to you. Consider the feelings it evokes and what it reveals about your own life. 3. Speak to God about what you've been meditating on. Share your thoughts and feelings. 4. Release the words and simply be present with God.

god focus speak reflection advent lectio divina wellspring read luke

Christmas Presents: Gold, A Gift Fit for a King | Matthew 2:1-12

LifeGroup Leader Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 9, 2025 20:52

Preaching Point: The Wise Men's gift of gold should remind us to revere Jesus as the unrivaled King of the universe.Main Text: Matthew 2:1-12 (ESV) 1 Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the east came to Jerusalem, 2 saying, “Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” 3 When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him; 4 and assembling all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born. 5 They told him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for so it is written by the prophet: 6 “ ‘And you, O Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for from you shall come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel.' ” 7 Then Herod summoned the wise men secretly and ascertained from them what time the star had appeared. 8 And he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, “Go and search diligently for the child, and when you have found him, bring me word, that I too may come and worship him.” 9 After listening to the king, they went on their way. And behold, the star that they had seen when it rose went before them until it came to rest over the place where the child was. 10 When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. 11 And going into the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh. 12 And being warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they departed to their own country by another way.Teaching Points:Affirm Jesus' Divine KingshipOffer Jesus Your Best, Not Just What's Left Anticipate Jesus' Eternal Kingship Application Questions:What is one observation or application you found helpful from this week's sermon?Read John 18:36-37, Matthew 2:1-2, and Micah 5:2. How does affirming the Divine Kingship of Jesus reshape your priorities and ambitions? What practical steps should you take this Christmas season to orient your life fully around the Divine Kingship of Jesus? Read 2 Samuel 24:18-25 and Matthew 10:37-39. Where are you tempted, and even guilty, of giving Jesus less than your best and settling to give him whatever is left over?What are the most common culprits that lead you into this pattern, and what steps can you take to eradicate them moving forward? How do these passages, along with the Wise Men and their gifts in Matthew 2:11, challenge you to be intentional about giving Jesus what he truly deserves? Read Luke 1:30-33 and Isaiah 9:6-7. How can you use this Christmas season to better prepare yourself and your family for Jesus' eternal reign as King?

christmas jesus christ israel gold jerusalem jews bethlehem herod wise men matthew 2 judea esv christmas presents king matthew fit for a king read john when herod read luke o bethlehem

Christmas: The Story Before the Story | Sunday Message

Harvest: Greg Laurie Audio

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 7, 2025 40:42

There’s more to the Christmas story than you may realize. There’s a prequel... In this message, Pastor Greg Laurie brings us to the story of a godly, elderly couple named Zechariah and Elizabeth, parents of John the Baptist. Notes: Luke 1 Luke gives us the prequel, the story before the story. Luke opens by saying, “In the days of Herod.”That’s like saying, “In Germany, in the days of Hitler.” Heaven’s light was about to break. Read Luke 1:5–17 Luke’s narrative finds Israel in the midst of a long night of spiritual darkness. Israel was now under the control of mighty and cruel Rome.But there was something in the air that things were about to change. A promise to Israel of better days to come – Malachi 4:2 NIVBut for you who revere my name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its rays. And you will go out and frolic like well-fed calves. Malachi 3:1 NIV“I will send my messenger, who will prepare the way before me. Then suddenly the Lord you are seeking will come to his temple; the messenger of the covenant, whom you desire, will come,” says the LORD Almighty. John the Baptist was the bridge between the Old Testament and the New Testament. God was now going to answer the prayer and heart cry of Israel. God sent the mighty angel Gabriel. The last appearance of an angel had been to the prophet Zechariah nearly five centuries earlier. Whenever angels appeared, they would say, “Do not be afraid!” Gabriel came to an elderly couple, Zacharias and Elizabeth. The name Zacharias means, “God remembers.”Elizabeth means, “My God is an oath.” God remembers His promises and always keeps His word. God was making up for lost time, and He gave them a baby like no other,John the Baptist. #1 Zacharias was a humble man. James 4:6 ESV“God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” The obsession with ourselves is at the root of our problems. The humble Zacharias was a country priest. There were many priests in Israel at this time.To be a priest meant you represented the people to God. The priest also represented God to the people.The priest would interpret scripture, counsel, and provide wise judgment for the people. I understand that I, too, am a representative of God to people. You, too, are a priest.And you, too, represent God to people. You are the only bible some people will ever read. #2 Zacharias was a faithful man. God called:Moses, when he was tending sheep.David, while he was watching sheep,Elijah, when he was plowingPeter and John, when they were mending nets.God calls busy people. It’s hard to steer a parked car. If you are faithful in small things, God will give you greater opportunities. God has given to every believer spiritual gifts. Romans 12:6 NLTGod has given us different gifts for doing certain things well. So if God has given you the ability to prophesy, speak out with as much faith as God has given you. Romans 12:7 NLTIf your gift is serving others, serve them well. If you are a teacher, teach well. Romans 12:8 NLTIf your gift is to encourage others, be encouraging. If it is giving, give generously. Paul told Timothy to “not neglect the gift that is in you.” Zacharias was faithful to do what God had set before him. #3 Zacharias and Elizabeth were godly and blameless people. Luke 1:6 NKJVAnd they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless. To be blameless does not mean they were sinless. They lived lives of integrity, not perfection. “Integrity is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.” Not to have any children was thought to be a curse from God. Little did they know that God would answer their prayers and give them a prophet. Their son, John, would be the greatest prophet of the Old Testament. Perhaps you are going through a time of difficulty right now. God was preparing Zacharias and Elizabeth for this day, and now the reward for faithfulness has come. Luke 1:13 NKJVBut the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zacharias, for your prayer is heard; and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John. God hears our prayers as well. God promises us that if we call out to Him, He will hear and answer.Psalm 34:15 Jeremiah 33:3 NKJV“Call to Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know.” Just because our prayers are not answered does not mean God does not hear them. There is an amazing story in Daniel 10 where a mighty angel appeared before the prophet.The angel told Daniel that the prophet’s prayer had been heard in heaven 21 days earlier. God’s delays are not necessarily his denials. The devil and his fallen angels are very active right now. Revelation 12:12b NIVThe devil has gone down to you! He is filled with fury because he knows that his time is short. The bible tells us that in the last days there would be “satanically energized times” and that things would go from bad to worse. So, what should we do in light of this?We need to use our two secret weapons, preaching and prayer. We have no idea of what is going on in the invisible world of angels and demons.Revelation 8:3–4 God hears and stores our prayers; not one is wasted. Every prayer is answered with either yes, no, or wait. God is aware of each and every request made for His glory and in His will. God heard and recorded the prayer of this godly couple. Zacharias prayed for 30 years for a son.The reason he was surprised when Gabriel came was because he had prayed for so long. In the same way, your prayers are in God’s to-do box.Even if you have forgotten about them, God has not. Don’t give up on your prayers. This happened with the believers praying for the deliverance of Simon Peter.When the answer to their prayer arrived, they did not believe it. #4 Zacharias was human and flawed just like us! Luke 1:18 NKJVAnd Zacharias said to the angel, “How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is well advanced in years.” Luke 1:19 NKJVAnd the angel answered and said to him, “I am Gabriel, who stands in the presence of God, and was sent to speak to you and bring you these glad tidings. Luke 1:20 NKJV“But behold, you will be mute and not able to speak until the day these things take place, because you did not believe my words.” Zacharias could have rejoiced, but instead he questioned. We can choose to worship God, or we can choose to question God. It’s not a bad thing for a Christian to struggle or even ask God, “Why?” Some people have experienced tragedy and disappointment and have questions for God. But there comes a point when we choose to trust. Even John the Baptist had a momentary doubt.He misunderstood the mission of the Messiah like so many others. John, the greatest Old Testament prophet, sitting in a dungeon, sent word to Jesus, “Are You the One, or should we look for another?” Jesus reassured John and sent him back to the scriptures. Zacharias couldn’t speak, so he tried to explain what happened through hand gestures.Luke 1:21 Lessons from the lives of Zacharias and Elizabeth:To be humble and wait on the Lord and serve HimTo keep praying and not give up because our prayers are heard and rememberedTo believe what God tells you and act in faith, not by feeling The biblical characters were quite ordinary.They were hopelessly human, remarkably unremarkable. They were also available and obedient to the Master’s call. A 1964 Aston Martin sold for $4.6 million. The value is not in the car, but in the one who drove it. The same is true of us. The value isn’t in the vessel; it’s in the One who fills it. For centuries, the world waited. For decades, a faithful couple prayed.And at just the right time, God said, “Now!” Maybe you’ve been praying for something. Your “now” can begin today. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Christmas: The Story Before the Story | Sunday Message

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 7, 2025 40:42

There’s more to the Christmas story than you may realize. There’s a prequel... In this message, Pastor Greg Laurie brings us to the story of a godly, elderly couple named Zechariah and Elizabeth, parents of John the Baptist. Notes: Luke 1 Luke gives us the prequel, the story before the story. Luke opens by saying, “In the days of Herod.”That’s like saying, “In Germany, in the days of Hitler.” Heaven’s light was about to break. Read Luke 1:5–17 Luke’s narrative finds Israel in the midst of a long night of spiritual darkness. Israel was now under the control of mighty and cruel Rome.But there was something in the air that things were about to change. A promise to Israel of better days to come – Malachi 4:2 NIVBut for you who revere my name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its rays. And you will go out and frolic like well-fed calves. Malachi 3:1 NIV“I will send my messenger, who will prepare the way before me. Then suddenly the Lord you are seeking will come to his temple; the messenger of the covenant, whom you desire, will come,” says the LORD Almighty. John the Baptist was the bridge between the Old Testament and the New Testament. God was now going to answer the prayer and heart cry of Israel. God sent the mighty angel Gabriel. The last appearance of an angel had been to the prophet Zechariah nearly five centuries earlier. Whenever angels appeared, they would say, “Do not be afraid!” Gabriel came to an elderly couple, Zacharias and Elizabeth. The name Zacharias means, “God remembers.”Elizabeth means, “My God is an oath.” God remembers His promises and always keeps His word. God was making up for lost time, and He gave them a baby like no other,John the Baptist. #1 Zacharias was a humble man. James 4:6 ESV“God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” The obsession with ourselves is at the root of our problems. The humble Zacharias was a country priest. There were many priests in Israel at this time.To be a priest meant you represented the people to God. The priest also represented God to the people.The priest would interpret scripture, counsel, and provide wise judgment for the people. I understand that I, too, am a representative of God to people. You, too, are a priest.And you, too, represent God to people. You are the only bible some people will ever read. #2 Zacharias was a faithful man. God called:Moses, when he was tending sheep.David, while he was watching sheep,Elijah, when he was plowingPeter and John, when they were mending nets.God calls busy people. It’s hard to steer a parked car. If you are faithful in small things, God will give you greater opportunities. God has given to every believer spiritual gifts. Romans 12:6 NLTGod has given us different gifts for doing certain things well. So if God has given you the ability to prophesy, speak out with as much faith as God has given you. Romans 12:7 NLTIf your gift is serving others, serve them well. If you are a teacher, teach well. Romans 12:8 NLTIf your gift is to encourage others, be encouraging. If it is giving, give generously. Paul told Timothy to “not neglect the gift that is in you.” Zacharias was faithful to do what God had set before him. #3 Zacharias and Elizabeth were godly and blameless people. Luke 1:6 NKJVAnd they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless. To be blameless does not mean they were sinless. They lived lives of integrity, not perfection. “Integrity is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.” Not to have any children was thought to be a curse from God. Little did they know that God would answer their prayers and give them a prophet. Their son, John, would be the greatest prophet of the Old Testament. Perhaps you are going through a time of difficulty right now. God was preparing Zacharias and Elizabeth for this day, and now the reward for faithfulness has come. Luke 1:13 NKJVBut the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zacharias, for your prayer is heard; and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John. God hears our prayers as well. God promises us that if we call out to Him, He will hear and answer.Psalm 34:15 Jeremiah 33:3 NKJV“Call to Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know.” Just because our prayers are not answered does not mean God does not hear them. There is an amazing story in Daniel 10 where a mighty angel appeared before the prophet.The angel told Daniel that the prophet’s prayer had been heard in heaven 21 days earlier. God’s delays are not necessarily his denials. The devil and his fallen angels are very active right now. Revelation 12:12b NIVThe devil has gone down to you! He is filled with fury because he knows that his time is short. The bible tells us that in the last days there would be “satanically energized times” and that things would go from bad to worse. So, what should we do in light of this?We need to use our two secret weapons, preaching and prayer. We have no idea of what is going on in the invisible world of angels and demons.Revelation 8:3–4 God hears and stores our prayers; not one is wasted. Every prayer is answered with either yes, no, or wait. God is aware of each and every request made for His glory and in His will. God heard and recorded the prayer of this godly couple. Zacharias prayed for 30 years for a son.The reason he was surprised when Gabriel came was because he had prayed for so long. In the same way, your prayers are in God’s to-do box.Even if you have forgotten about them, God has not. Don’t give up on your prayers. This happened with the believers praying for the deliverance of Simon Peter.When the answer to their prayer arrived, they did not believe it. #4 Zacharias was human and flawed just like us! Luke 1:18 NKJVAnd Zacharias said to the angel, “How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is well advanced in years.” Luke 1:19 NKJVAnd the angel answered and said to him, “I am Gabriel, who stands in the presence of God, and was sent to speak to you and bring you these glad tidings. Luke 1:20 NKJV“But behold, you will be mute and not able to speak until the day these things take place, because you did not believe my words.” Zacharias could have rejoiced, but instead he questioned. We can choose to worship God, or we can choose to question God. It’s not a bad thing for a Christian to struggle or even ask God, “Why?” Some people have experienced tragedy and disappointment and have questions for God. But there comes a point when we choose to trust. Even John the Baptist had a momentary doubt.He misunderstood the mission of the Messiah like so many others. John, the greatest Old Testament prophet, sitting in a dungeon, sent word to Jesus, “Are You the One, or should we look for another?” Jesus reassured John and sent him back to the scriptures. Zacharias couldn’t speak, so he tried to explain what happened through hand gestures.Luke 1:21 Lessons from the lives of Zacharias and Elizabeth:To be humble and wait on the Lord and serve HimTo keep praying and not give up because our prayers are heard and rememberedTo believe what God tells you and act in faith, not by feeling The biblical characters were quite ordinary.They were hopelessly human, remarkably unremarkable. They were also available and obedient to the Master’s call. A 1964 Aston Martin sold for $4.6 million. The value is not in the car, but in the one who drove it. The same is true of us. The value isn’t in the vessel; it’s in the One who fills it. For centuries, the world waited. For decades, a faithful couple prayed.And at just the right time, God said, “Now!” Maybe you’ve been praying for something. Your “now” can begin today. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Advent through OT Eyes - Shepherds

Sermons - Lander Evangelical Free Church

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 7, 2025 38:48

For the Second Sunday of Advent, we turn to the image of shepherds, some of the first to worship Jesus, and who recall rich imagery in the Old Testament from Psalm 23 to Ezekiel 34. Read Luke 2:8-20 and thanks for listening.

jesus christ psalm advent old testament shepherds second sunday read luke

Heaven to Earth: Christlike Love Serves

Journey Church Sunday Worship Gathering Audio - Bozeman, Montana

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 7, 2025 35:28

Brian Priebe | Executive Pastor | December 7, 2025 Referenced Scripture: Philippians 2:3-7, Luke 10:38-42, Matthew 20:28, Galatians 5:13-14 Reflection Questions: 1. What's one thing that stood out to you from the sermon and why? 2. How would people close to you rate your serving on a scale of 1-10? 3. What motivates you to serve other people? Can you share an experience of service that was meaningful to you? 4. What are Biblical examples of Jesus serving people? 5. Do you find that serving people comes to you naturally? Why or Why not? What things make serving challenging for you? 6. Brian's focal point was that service comes in two forms and Jesus' example is 80% relational service and 20% acts of service. Do you agree or disagree? Why? 7. Read Luke 10:38-42. What differences do you see between how Martha serves Jesus and how Mary serves Jesus? 8. Are you naturally bent to serve more like Martha or Mary? What would it take in your life to serve more like Mary than Martha? 9. What would the church look like if everyone took Jesus/Mary's posture of servicing people relationally while still accomplishing tasks? 10. What would be your next step to serve people relationally? Who is someone I could reach out to serve relationally and when would I commit to do that by? What's your next step? * Connect: We'd love to connect with you! Fill out our Connect Card to receive more information, have us pray for you, or to ask us any questions: http://journeybozeman.com/connectcard * Connect: Get your children connected to our children's ministry, Base Camp: https://journeybozeman.com/children * Connect: Our Student Ministry is for High School and Middle School students: https://journeybozeman.com/students * Give: Want to worship through giving and support the ministry of Journey Church: https://journeybozeman.com/give * Gather: Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/JourneyChurchBozeman * Gather: Download our app: https://journeybozeman.com/app * Gather: Join our Facebook Group to stay connected throughout the week: https://facebook.com/groups/JourneyChurchBozeman Chapters (00:00:00) - "Are You Doing Enough?"(00:01:49) - Philippians 2: Value Others Above Yourself(00:07:35) - What Service Is Really Like(00:15:16) - Martha and Mary: The 80% of Service(00:22:56) - Service and Relationships(00:24:31) - Galatians 5: Free to Use Your Body(00:31:37) - How to Serve One Another Relatively

jesus christ relationships earth service high school biblical philippians galatians fill middle school serves christlike basecamp jesus mary reflection questions journey church read luke use your body

When Gratitude Meets Grace | Luke 17:11-19

LifeGroup Leader Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 2, 2025 13:40

Main Text: Luke 17:11-19 (ESV) 11 On the way to Jerusalem he was passing along between Samaria and Galilee. 12 And as he entered a village, he was met by ten lepers, who stood at a distance 13 and lifted up their voices, saying, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.” 14 When he saw them he said to them, “Go and show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went they were cleansed. 15 Then one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, praising God with a loud voice; 16 and he fell on his face at Jesus' feet, giving him thanks. Now he was a Samaritan. 17 Then Jesus answered, “Were not ten cleansed? Where are the nine? 18 Was no one found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?” 19 And he said to him, “Rise and go your way; your faith has made you well.”Preaching Point: You must act in accordance with your faith in Jesus and glorify Him as you continually experience the goodness of His grace in salvation.Teaching Points: Put Your Faith in Jesus Into Action (VV. 11-14)Respond to God's Grace with Praise and Gratitude (VV. 15-16)Recognize that God Has Met Your Greatest Need Through Christ (VV. 17-19)Application Questions: What is one observation or application that you found helpful from this week's sermon? Read Luke 17:11-14. Identify one area where you need to put your faith into action this week. What concrete step will you take to do so?Read Luke 6:46, 1 Peter 1:14-16. Where in your life is Jesus calling you to obey without full clarity or comfort?When you take an honest look at your prayer life, is it dominated more by requests or by thanksgiving?Read Psalm 100:1-5. What daily or weekly practices could you add to better cultivate gratitude to God?How does remembering what Christ has done for you (Eph. 2:1–7; 2 Cor. 5:17) fuel gratitude and worship?Who in your life needs to hear about how Jesus has met your greatest need? Who will you share with this week?

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Entering the Kingdom

god jesus christ prayer kingdom pride wealth kingdom of god entering iv jealousy greed digging deeper discontentment discussion questions read luke

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 30, 2025 39:10

Discussion QuestionsSermon Overview Those who enter the kingdom depend on Jesus completely and treasure him supremely.I. Who enters: those who depend on Jesus completely (vv. 15-17)II. Who enters: those who treasure Jesus supremely (vv. 18-30)III. How Jesus makes entry possible: suffering in our place (vv. 31-34)IV. How entry looks: dependent faith produces joyful following (vv. 35-43)Digging Deeper Read Luke 18:15-431. Jesus exhorts us to receive the kingdom of God like a child, in complete dependence. How does this help us in entering his kingdom? 2. What's the opposite of being like a child in approaching God? How could/does this show up in your life?3. Wealth isn't evil, but it is a danger. How is wealth a powerful rival to God?4. Where do you struggle when thinking about money? Greed? Discontentment? Jealousy? Overreliance on it for security? What might you do or change to grow in this area?5. Those who follow Jesus give up much now, but also receive much now. If you follow Jesus, what good things have you already experienced because you are a part of God's kingdom now?6. It was asked in the sermon, “Do you see Jesus's love?” What does it mean to see His love, and how does it help us enter his kingdom? 7. The blind man at the end of the passage is a picture of the one who enters the kingdom. How do we live our lives marked by the kind of joyful following that the blind man exhibits upon being healed? 8. What is one specific thing that keeps you from entering the kingdom? Self-righteousness? Pride? Wealth that consumes your life? How do you flee from it? 9. How can we live in such a way that witnesses to unbelievers about the goodness of entering the kingdom of God?Prayer

Baptism Sunday – I Am Allowed to be Great

Navigation Church

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 30, 2025

I Am Allowed to be Great Jesus once said that among those born of women, no one was greater than John the Baptist. But what made him so great? It wasn't status, his success, his boldness, his baptizing, or his camel-hair fashion—it was that he faithfully pointed others to Jesus. In this sermon, we explore Luke 7 and what it truly means to live a life that directs people to Christ. Is it possible that there's a deeper level of purpose and power available in your walk with God? Tune in and discover how greatness is defined in the Kingdom. John 7:18-28 Discussion topics Have you ever been disappointed in God? John the Baptist knew Jesus personally and still had doubts while in prison. What does this tell us about faith during hard seasons? Read Luke 7:18-28 - Jesus comforted John by pointing to the evidence of His work—healing, deliverance, good news. What “evidence” do you see of Jesus working in your life or around you right now? What does Jesus' statement—“among those born of women there is no one greater than John; yet the one who is least in the Kingdom of God is greater than he”—mean to you? John's entire life pointed people to Jesus. In what ways can your life and words do the same? What are some practical ways we can avoid becoming “offended” at Jesus when life doesn't go as expected? Check out our other audio series and video playlists that can help you find Jesus in every moment and then discover what's next

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The One God Receives

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Play Episode Listen Later Nov 23, 2025 29:17

Discussion QuestionsSermon Overview Come to God, trusting not in yourself, but in Jesus. God's saving mercy and grace are only for those who know they don't deserve it.Digging Deeper Read Luke 18:9-141. In our passage, the Pharisee comes to God trusting in himself (and how good he is). Where do we see this in the text?2. What are subtle or obvious ways we can trust ourselves instead of Jesus?3. “Whenever we feel God does not love us because we have failed, we have adopted the Pharisee's approach.” Do you experience this? If so, how can you respond to these feelings? How can we help each other?4. One of the ways Pharisee-like self-righteousness reveals itself is in a propensity to treat others with contempt (cf. v.9b). Reflect on some of the words (and tone) you have used with others around you in the past. Do you see any supporting evidence that you may have, at times, been guilty of treating others with contempt? What heart-level attitudes might such words reveal? 5. How tempted are you to compare yourself with others to determine how good or bad you are? A lot? A little? Something else?6. What's the problem with assessing yourself based on comparison to others?7. How easy is it to view yourself like the tax collector, claiming no righteousness of your own?8. It was said in the sermon, “... we are all far more sinful than we think. And it is only when we grasp this that we can receive the good news.” What was meant by this? Do you agree? 9. How might we use this parable (and the truths it teaches) to engage with unbelievers about the good news of the Gospel? 10. What one specific application from this passage might God want you to consider and take with you into the week ahead? Please share. Prayer

Instant Glorification (Luke 23:39-43)

Living Faith Anglican Church

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 23, 2025 26:18

Sermon by Fr. Peter Smith24th Sunday of Ordinary TimeQuestions for Group Discussion1. Read Luke 23:39-43. In what ways are the two thieves the same, and in what ways are they different?2. Have you considered that these two thieves represent us: humanity? What is significant about that?3. When the second thief says, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom,” what do you think he means, and what is he hoping for?4. In what way does Jesus' statement to the thief—“Today you will be with me in paradise” —bring encouragement to you when you think about your own life or about the lives of those around you?5. As we look ahead towards Advent and the coming of Christ, what do you sense God is calling you to pursue in order to get ready?

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The Power Of God's Whisper Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 19, 2025 6:34

Discipleship isn't a title; it's a trail.When Jesus walked the shores of Galilee, He didn't hand out pamphlets or build a following through social media. He looked a few fishermen straight in the eyes and said two words that changed everything:“Follow Me.”That's it. No marketing pitch. No promise of comfort. Just a call — and an invitation to leave everything behind for something greater.Following Jesus isn't about location — it's about direction. Every disciple starts the same way: walking away from self and walking toward the Savior.I still remember the day that truth hit home. I'd been a Christian for years, but I was still driving the car while asking God to bless my route. Then one morning, the Holy Spirit convicted me hard: “Matthew, I can't lead what you won't surrender.”That's when I realized being a disciple isn't about asking Jesus to walk with me; it's about me walking wherever He's going — even if it's uncomfortable.Michelle and I have lived this out over and over. From ministry highs to financial struggles, from seasons of clarity to moments of silence — we've had to decide: Will we trust Him when the map runs out? Will we still follow when it costs us pride, plans, or comfort?The answer had to be yes — because discipleship is not a once-a-week commitment. It's a daily death and daily resurrection.Luke 9:23 says, “If anyone would come after Me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow Me.”Notice that word — daily. Discipleship isn't about perfection; it's about persistence.You won't get every step right, but every step you take with Jesus changes you. The disciples weren't perfect men — they argued, doubted, ran, and failed. But here's the difference: they kept following.Every day, you and I wake up in a world screaming, “Follow your heart.” But Jesus says, “Follow Me.” And that one command flips everything.When you follow your heart, you'll end up lost. When you follow Jesus, you'll find your heart's true home.Maybe your path today looks uncertain — your marriage tested, your kids wandering, your faith stretched thin. Following Jesus doesn't mean you won't face storms. It means when the wind howls, you've got the One who commands it walking beside you.When Michelle and I look back at the times we tried to carry everything ourselves — our ministry, our dreams, our disappointments — we see the same pattern. Every time we surrendered control, peace came back. Every time we followed His whisper instead of our worry, doors opened we didn't even know existed.That's what discipleship looks like — obedience over outcome.

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THE POWER OF GOD'S WHISPER

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 19, 2025 6:34

Discipleship isn't a title; it's a trail.When Jesus walked the shores of Galilee, He didn't hand out pamphlets or build a following through social media. He looked a few fishermen straight in the eyes and said two words that changed everything:“Follow Me.”That's it. No marketing pitch. No promise of comfort. Just a call — and an invitation to leave everything behind for something greater.Following Jesus isn't about location — it's about direction. Every disciple starts the same way: walking away from self and walking toward the Savior.I still remember the day that truth hit home. I'd been a Christian for years, but I was still driving the car while asking God to bless my route. Then one morning, the Holy Spirit convicted me hard: “Matthew, I can't lead what you won't surrender.”That's when I realized being a disciple isn't about asking Jesus to walk with me; it's about me walking wherever He's going — even if it's uncomfortable.Michelle and I have lived this out over and over. From ministry highs to financial struggles, from seasons of clarity to moments of silence — we've had to decide: Will we trust Him when the map runs out? Will we still follow when it costs us pride, plans, or comfort?The answer had to be yes — because discipleship is not a once-a-week commitment. It's a daily death and daily resurrection.Luke 9:23 says, “If anyone would come after Me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow Me.”Notice that word — daily. Discipleship isn't about perfection; it's about persistence.You won't get every step right, but every step you take with Jesus changes you. The disciples weren't perfect men — they argued, doubted, ran, and failed. But here's the difference: they kept following.Every day, you and I wake up in a world screaming, “Follow your heart.” But Jesus says, “Follow Me.” And that one command flips everything.When you follow your heart, you'll end up lost. When you follow Jesus, you'll find your heart's true home.Maybe your path today looks uncertain — your marriage tested, your kids wandering, your faith stretched thin. Following Jesus doesn't mean you won't face storms. It means when the wind howls, you've got the One who commands it walking beside you.When Michelle and I look back at the times we tried to carry everything ourselves — our ministry, our dreams, our disappointments — we see the same pattern. Every time we surrendered control, peace came back. Every time we followed His whisper instead of our worry, doors opened we didn't even know existed.That's what discipleship looks like — obedience over outcome.

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"When the Son of Man Comes"

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Play Episode Listen Later Nov 16, 2025 39:14

Discussion QuestionsSermon Overview Jesus' sure and sudden return calls for wholehearted loyalty and persevering prayer.Digging Deeper Read Luke 17:20-18:81. Did this sermon help you in your understanding of what the Kingdom of God is? How so? 2. How does Daniel 7:13-14 shed light on what Jesus meant when he spoke of “the kingdom of God” and “the Son of Man”?3. The coming of the Son of Man will be unmistakable to all (17:22-25). Why do you think Jesus wants his disciples (including us) to know this? What does this truth help guard against? 4. The coming of the Son of Man will be unexpected by many (17:26-30). In mercy, Jesus is warning his people, lest we be numbered among those who are not ready for his return. How can we help one another guard against complacency and against living with no sense of urgency (as those in Noah's and Lot's day did - until it was too late)? 5. The coming of the Son of Man will be for salvation and judgment (17:27, 29, 34-35). Apart from God's grace, we can be inclined to think that we're really not all that bad, and certainly not worthy of God's judgment. How might we use the truths taught in this passage to help unbelievers see both the sober reality of coming judgment and the salvation Christ offers? 6. One rightful response to what Jesus shows us in this passage about his return is to live with wholehearted loyalty to God. Is there a specific area of your life in which you are okay with something less than wholehearted loyalty to God? Please share. What would be a good next step toward change in this area? 7. Another rightful response in light of the second coming of the Son of Man is persevering prayer to God (18:1-8). Are there things you have prayed for, and yet God has not answered the way you hoped he would? Have you found yourself tempted to give up praying, and “lose heart”? Please share. 8. It was said in the sermon that “the key to not losing heart (in prayer) is the character of God.” What aspects of God's character would you say are most important for you to be mindful of as you seek to persevere in prayer until the Son of Man comes again? 9. What might be some ways we can encourage one another to persevere in prayer until the Son of Man returns? Prayer

CD 1768 Having, Holding, Hearing the Holy Spirit

Don't Miss Out!!! (Victory Worship Center)

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 15, 2025 60:49

CD 1768 Having, Holding, Hearing the Holy SpiritPraying in the Holy SpiritDonna and I laid down at 8:00. Went to sleep somewhere around 9:00 then woke up after about 30 minutes. I have took NyQuil and Benadryl, a cold out the salsa still awake so now I took I a amitriptyline. So I'm sitting in my chair praying in tongues. Scriptures:Text: Jude 1:19-21 KJV 19 These be they who separate themselves, sensual, having not the Spirit. 20 But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, 21 Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life.From these versus the scripture we see three great benefits of praying in the Holy Spirit: #1 Faith being BuiltNotice in verse 19 they talk about being sensual in other words carnal rather than spiritual! But then the Lord with his word gives us the solution. He tells us to build ourselves up on our most holy Faith. Remember in Romans 12:3 we know that the lord gave us the measure of faith. We know that Romans 10:17 tells us that faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God. When we consider what Jesus told us and John chapter 14 about the holy Spirit would remind us of things Jesus had said and teach us new things then it's clear that when we start praying in the holy Spirit that The measure of Faith the word was built on causes our soul - our mind will and emotions to be renewed! #2 Living by LoveBut as we see then in verse 21 there is a great extra added benefit as well! Notice he said that we were to keep ourselves in the love of God! Romans 5:5 tells us that the love of God is being shed abroad in our heart. So when we pray in tongues not only does it build up our faith but it puts the love of God to work in our lives. When we consider that first Corinthians 13:8 tells us that love never fails! So just in these few verses of scripture we see the power of living the abundant Life that Jesus came to give us!This is a great benefit in the understanding that Jesus said in John 14:15 if you love me you'll keep my commandments. So in other words we should be able to follow the word of God more closely in truth. This is very exciting when you consider and John 8:31 through 32 and then in verse 36 Jesus teaches about becoming his disciple and knowing the truth that would make us free. He said who the Son makes free is free indeed!#3 Moved by MercyHe tells us to look for His Mercy! That word translated looking means to wait and confidence with patience!Read Luke 1:71-75 KJV 71 That we should be saved from our enemies, and from the hand of all that hate us; 72 To perform the mercy promised to our fathers, and to remember his holy covenant; 73 The oath which he sware to our father Abraham, 74 That he would grant unto us, that we being delivered out of the hand of our enemies might serve him without fear, 75 In holiness and righteousness before him, all the days of our life.Notice in verse 72 that God had promised Mercy all through his word through his son Jesus Christ! From Genesis 3:15 to Isaiah prophesying about Jesus 700 years before the fact! So we can be assured of his Mercy. The more that we pray in the holy Spirit the more aware of the fact that because of this Mercy we have fellowship with him and do no longer have to be controlled by the spirit of fear! Note 2 Timothy 1:7 the word of God tells us that God is not given us the spirit of fear, but of power, and love and of a sound mind!Support the show

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The Power Of God's Whisper Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 11, 2025 5:57

Before the manger, before Bethlehem, before “Silent Night,” there was eternity — and in that eternity, the Word already existed. John 1:1 declares: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.”The Incarnation isn't a sentimental Christmas story; it's a strategic rescue operation. The Creator stepped into His own creation, not as a King demanding tribute, but as a servant offering redemption. Think about that. The God who sculpted galaxies took on skin, lungs, a heartbeat. He entered our world through the frailty of a newborn, crying in a manger He created.Why? Because love demanded proximity. You can't redeem what you refuse to touch. Humanity's problem was separation — sin built the wall, and only divinity wrapped in humanity could tear it down. Jesus didn't come as a tourist; He came as a resident, moving into our neighborhood to change it from the inside out.Philippians 2 tells us that Jesus “emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant.” The One who commanded angels learned obedience through suffering. He traded Heaven's throne for a carpenter's bench. He who knew no limits submitted to time and pain.And because He became flesh, He knows you. He's felt hunger, exhaustion, loneliness, betrayal. He wept. He rejoiced. He was misunderstood. Every ache in your heart has an echo in His story.That's what makes the Incarnation miraculous — not just that God became man, but that He understands man. He gets your struggle, your fear, your frustration. He doesn't look down from Heaven; He looks out from beside you.When life feels cold and distant, remember: God once walked under the same sun, breathed the same air, and carried a cross up a real hill. He knows what it means to be human — and He did it perfectly so that you could finally be free.This isn't abstract theology; it's divine intimacy. The Word became flesh — so the Word could dwell within you.

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THE POWER OF GOD'S WHISPER

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 11, 2025 5:57

Before the manger, before Bethlehem, before “Silent Night,” there was eternity — and in that eternity, the Word already existed. John 1:1 declares: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.”The Incarnation isn't a sentimental Christmas story; it's a strategic rescue operation. The Creator stepped into His own creation, not as a King demanding tribute, but as a servant offering redemption. Think about that. The God who sculpted galaxies took on skin, lungs, a heartbeat. He entered our world through the frailty of a newborn, crying in a manger He created.Why? Because love demanded proximity. You can't redeem what you refuse to touch. Humanity's problem was separation — sin built the wall, and only divinity wrapped in humanity could tear it down. Jesus didn't come as a tourist; He came as a resident, moving into our neighborhood to change it from the inside out.Philippians 2 tells us that Jesus “emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant.” The One who commanded angels learned obedience through suffering. He traded Heaven's throne for a carpenter's bench. He who knew no limits submitted to time and pain.And because He became flesh, He knows you. He's felt hunger, exhaustion, loneliness, betrayal. He wept. He rejoiced. He was misunderstood. Every ache in your heart has an echo in His story.That's what makes the Incarnation miraculous — not just that God became man, but that He understands man. He gets your struggle, your fear, your frustration. He doesn't look down from Heaven; He looks out from beside you.When life feels cold and distant, remember: God once walked under the same sun, breathed the same air, and carried a cross up a real hill. He knows what it means to be human — and He did it perfectly so that you could finally be free.This isn't abstract theology; it's divine intimacy. The Word became flesh — so the Word could dwell within you.

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What Faith Makes Possible

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Play Episode Listen Later Nov 9, 2025 39:20

Discussion QuestionsSermon Overview The whole Christian life is enabled by faith in Christ.Digging Deeper Read Luke 17:1-191. Faith in Christ gives us a sort of superpower to do things that are really hard (some would say impossible). From the passage or the sermon, what kinds of things does faith enable?2. After all the hard things Jesus has been calling the disciples to, they feel that they need an increase of faith (vs. 5). Why do you think they ask for more faith, instead of more of something else?3. What is or may be an area you have freedom to pursue that you intentionally don't because you want the spiritual good of someone weaker in the faith?4. Christians are commanded to reconcile wrongs with others. What makes it difficult to be reconciled with someone who has wronged us (or make amends to someone whom we have wronged)?5. Where do you need to go and be reconciled? Consider both relationships in which you need to forgive, and relationships in which you need forgiveness.6. Have you ever experienced a surprising ability to serve God (through increased grace for others, stamina in ministry, resistance to sin, etc.)? Where did this come from, according to Luke 17? 7. In the sermon, it was said that faith enables us to receive God's mercy. Is it ever hard for you to receive mercy from others? What about from God? 8. Where in your life do you need to have faith in God right now and ask him to move? Do you trust Him to do what you're asking? Be specific. Prayer

The Father Who Runs: A Story of Homecoming

Knowing God With Heart and Mind

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 3, 2025 22:38 Transcription Available

Read Luke 15:17 and hear the familiar parable of the prodigal son retold with a focus on sonship, God's overflowing grace, and the path from repentance to transformation. This episode reflects on the father's extravagant love, practical steps for prayer (PAUSE, REJOICE, ASK, YIELD), and how repentance opens the way for lasting change and restoration.

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A Great Reversal

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Play Episode Listen Later Nov 2, 2025 36:18

Discussion QuestionsSermon Overview Because death reverses the wrongs of life, the living should hear God now and respond.Digging Deeper Read Luke 16:19-311. Money is a recurring theme in Luke 16. What does Jesus say about money? Why do you think he talks about it so much?2. When you think about someone spending an eternity without God, do you struggle with whether it is just? Why, or why not?3. Real people go to a real hell. What difference should this reality make in our lives now?4. It can be easy to feel like we have to get it all right in this life so we don't end up like the rich man in the parable. What helps us avoid thinking we can earn our way to heaven due to a fear of hell?5. The great news of the gospel is that if we are in Christ, we are beneficiaries of a second reversal, greater than that of death. What was that reversal, and what does it mean for believers?6. What brokenness in our world now might we joyfully anticipate being reversed in eternity later?7. How do you do justice and show mercy in your everyday life? If you struggle with this, how can you grow in showing mercy? 8. In the sermon, we heard that part of responding to the reversal that is death is “to be generous and prepare.” What are some needs around us that we can anticipate and meet as a community? 9. How do we share this truth of the gospel - this reversal of right and wrong - to someone who doesn't believe there is anything other than this life?Prayer

Jubilee Rising: 25 Years of Grace in Motion—Party

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Play Episode Listen Later Nov 2, 2025 67:29

Let me tell you about the parties God throws—they're always for the wrong people! And the door is open for all to come. And, finally, these celebrations are often scandalous! Read Luke 15:1-32 to prepare.**For the best uninterrupted livestream experience, participate in this week's sermon at nblc.net/sermons

Righteousness from the Heart

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Play Episode Listen Later Oct 26, 2025

Discussion QuestionsSermon Overview Pursue a God-pleasing righteousness from the heart, including in your marriageI. The righteousness God seeks is from the heart (vv. 14-15)II. The kingdom Jesus brings fulfills the law but does not relax righteousness (vv. 16-17)III. God's enduring desire for righteousness is shown in his enduring instruction about marriage (v. 18)Digging Deeper Read Luke 16:14-181. In the sermon, righteousness is “being right, doing right, before God.” The righteousness God is seeking is righteousness from the heart. What's the difference between being righteous just on the outside (like the Pharisees) and being righteous from the heart?2. Have you ever found yourself resisting a teaching in the Bible, only to later realize (or experience a sense of conviction from the Holy Spirit) that it is a truth that was pressing on something you were loving as a rival to God? Please share.3. If you were to be honest, is there an area of your life where you are settling for outward conformity (a merely external righteousness)? What might be a good step toward pursuing change in this area of your life?4. After hearing this sermon, how might you respond to someone who thinks they can live however they want because Jesus counts us as righteous through trust in him?5. Jesus didn't come to make righteousness unnecessary, but rather to make it possible. What does that mean? Do you find this truth encouraging? How so? MARRIAGEIn our culture, the starting point for thinking about marriage is often self-fulfillment: my wants, my needs, my goals. It's easy to miss God's design for marriage, which is a covenant to which we must be faithful, a union that is only broken with great trauma, and a picture of God's love and faithfulness. It is, therefore, not surprising that so many fail to see the grievousness of divorce as God does. 6. How can we speak and act about marriage so that those around us are pointed toward God's good design of marriage?7. This passage urges us to “Pursue a God-pleasing righteousness from the heart, including in (our) marriages.” If you're married, what would this practically look like?8. Given your marital situation and background, what was one takeaway from this sermon God might want you to remember in the days ahead? Prayer

Jubilee Rising: 25 Years of Grace in Motion—Care

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Play Episode Listen Later Oct 26, 2025 74:42

Who do I have to love? That's not the question Jesus wants us to ask. Instead Jesus forces us to consider, What kind of person am I becoming? Jesus moves us from obligation mindsets to character formation. Read Luke 10:25-37 to prepare.**For the best uninterrupted livestream experience, participate in this week's sermon at nblc.net/sermons

Shrewdness, Mammon, and A Crook

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Play Episode Listen Later Oct 19, 2025 44:04

Discussion QuestionsSermon Overview Followers of Jesus shrewdly manage mammon now for eternal purposes.Digging Deeper Read Luke 16:1-131. How was the crooked manager in the parable shrewd?2. If you're a follower of Jesus, what would it look like to be shrewd for kingdom purposes?Mammon can be defined simply as money and possessions (like in verses 9 and 11). And it can be understood as a demonic power that uses money and possessions to lure people away from God (like in verse 12).3. Mammon will fail (v. 9) because it goes up and down in life, and when we die, it will be worthless. If you believed this through and through, how would it change your life?4. Western culture is a materialistic culture. What blind spots do you think this causes in our lives and church when it comes to spending your money with kingdom priorities?5. How have you experienced the influence of mammon inside of you? How have you looked to money to give you peace, security, significance, adventure, pleasure, etc?6. In what ways is Jesus a better God to serve than Money? Why is this easy to forget in day-to-day life?7. Often, we connect with what Jesus has done in the past to motivate our lives now (e.g., Jesus was generous, so we should be generous). In our passage, Jesus motivates generosity and faithfulness with future eternal rewards (see v. 9 and v. 11). Do you think much of eternal rewards? Why or why not?8. Imagine the eternal rewards God promises for shrewd stewardship of mammon, like eternal friends (v. 9) and true riches (v. 12). What comes to your mind? 9. How can we, as a Gospel Community, together encourage one another to look forward to eternal rewards?

Praying in a "Not Yet" World

Living Faith Anglican Church

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 19, 2025 31:07

Sermon by Dcn. Robert Polen19th Sunday of Ordinary TimeDiscussion Questions1. Read Luke 17:20-37. How does Jesus describe the context in which we are called to pray?2. How does Jesus describe the hopelessness of the widow's situation? How does this story encourage us to pray always and not lose heart?3. How should we understand our experience of justice seeming to be delayed with Jesus' promise that God will execute justice for his people speedily?4. What might cause us to lose faith and stop praying for God's kingdom justice? How can we encourage one another to be confident in our prayers to God for justice?

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Jubilee Rising: 25 Years of Grace in Motion—Share

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Play Episode Listen Later Oct 19, 2025 66:58

We cannot hold our tongues. We have faith on our lips! Our faith finds a voice because of what we have seen and heard. And we don't need polish. We just need to be present. Read Luke 24:13-35 to prepare.**For the best uninterrupted livestream experience, participate in this week's sermon at nblc.net/sermons

Lost, Found, Joy

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Play Episode Listen Later Oct 12, 2025 38:18

Discussion QuestionsSermon Overview Disciples should share Jesus' joy in lost sinners becoming found sons.Digging Deeper Read Luke 15:1-321. Do you now, or have you ever felt estranged from God? If so, what is/was it like?2. In the sermon, Brett mentioned that happiness dependent on something that could be lost is fragile. What makes you happy? How durable or fragile is it?3. Have you ever hit rock bottom? What was it like?4. Read Luke 15:20. When you think of God's love, how similar or different is it to what's described? 5. There are two ways to be lost: self-indulgence or self-righteousness. Which way did/do you gravitate towards?6. How is the insight this passage gives us to what brings heaven joy both a thrill for us and a challenge to us?7. If your joy is the same as what brings God joy, how will it affect:a. Your view and relationship with those who don't know Jesus?b. Your prayer life?Prayer

Jubilee Rising: 25 Years of Grace in Motion—Prayer

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 12, 2025 73:49

Prayer is a call and response. Having heard God's Word, we pray it—quote it. That's why every prayer we pray shapes who we are. It's like the Bible's echo in our hearts. Read Luke 1:46-55 to prepare.**For the best uninterrupted livestream experience, participate in this week's sermon at nblc.net/sermons

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What Following Jesus Requires

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Play Episode Listen Later Oct 5, 2025 35:42

Discussion QuestionsSermon Overview Not all who are interested in Jesus are disciples of Jesus (v. 25)Digging Deeper Read Luke 14:25-351. What does Jesus mean when he says in verse 26 that to follow him means hating our family? What other passages in the Bible can help bring clarity?2. Are there any dynamics within your family that can, at times, make it challenging to put Jesus first? How do you typically handle those situations? 3. Verse 27 teaches us that to be a disciple of Jesus involves a willingness to take on the death of self-denial. What are some of the things you might otherwise say yes to, but now say no to, in order that you might say yes to Christ? 4. What is the gain of following Jesus?5. In verse 33, Jesus tells us that renouncing all that we have is a requirement for being his disciple. What does this mean? What does this look like for you? 6. To trust Jesus as our Savior and our Lord means there is nothing he does not have the right to ask of us. Is there anything that comes to mind you really hope Jesus does not ask you to give up? If so, share. How can you determine if that thing is being held on too tightly in light of Jesus? 7. “There is nothing Jesus calls us to in this passage that he hasn't already done for us.” What does that mean? Do you find encouragement from this? How so?8. Think about how you talk about the Christian life to others. How is that similar or different from Jesus' description here?Prayer

Whose Kingdom?

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Play Episode Listen Later Sep 28, 2025 37:08

Discussion QuestionsSermon Overview The Pharisees were too busy building their own kingdom to bother with following Jesus in his. Digging Deeper Read Luke 14:1-241. We can all, at times, find ourselves living for the “kingdom of self” rather than for the Kingdom of God. What are some of the ways you see that happen in your life? (e.g., work, responsibilities, possessions, activities, etc.)2. How does a greater focus on the Kingdom of God (with a corresponding decreased focus on the “kingdom of self”) lead to greater compassion for others?3. What are places and situations where you may be tempted to care too much about what others think of you? (e.g., work, school, neighbors, friends, kids' abilities, etc.)4. Why is it liberating to be freed from living for the recognition of others? What difference will that make at work? Home? Church? Evangelism?5. In verses 13-14a, Jesus encourages us to pursue a generosity that will not be repaid in this life. What could it look like to show compassion and generosity to “the poor, the crippled, the lame (and) the blind”? 6. Jesus promises in verse 14b a reward for moving towards those who can give you nothing in return. What is the reward? Is it motivating? Why or why not?7. “Live for the line, not for the dot” is a common phrase in the history of CrossWay that captures the desire to live now for the life to come (the line) and not for the short few years we have on earth (the dot). If we believe this to be good, how can we help one another pursue it? 8. It is a tragic and grievous reality that many around us fail to heed the invitation into the kingdom Jesus has inaugurated because they are consumed with the things of this world. What might it look like for us (in an appropriate manner) to “compel” those outside the kingdom to lay down their excuses and come join “the banquet” of the kingdom? Prayer

Unstoppable Restoration

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Play Episode Listen Later Sep 14, 2025

Discussion QuestionsSermon Overview Rejoice in the restoration God's kingdom unstoppably brings.1) Jesus has come to restore and set free (vv. 10-17)2) This restoration will spread quietly but unstoppably despite opposition (vv. 18-21)Digging Deeper Read Luke 13:10-211. God often furthers his Kingdom on earth through the weak and unimpressive (like the disabled woman in the passage) to show that the power belongs to him. How should this reality encourage us to be faithful in what may seem like small things? 2. Jesus freeing the crippled woman physically (vv. 10-13) is a picture of what he intends to do for the world spiritually. If you're a follower of Jesus, how have you experienced spiritual freedom? If you're not, what do you hope Jesus could do for you?3. Jesus has come to restore and set free. In what area(s) of your life are you most eager to see Jesus restore and set free? 4. Freedom is something that is valued and often spoken of in America. How might we pivot in a conversation with an unbeliever about political freedom to speaking of the freedom Christ brings from sin, Satan, and death?5. When we see the brokenness and “bent-ness” of the world around us (in the news headlines or in our own lives), what truths from this would it be good for us to keep in mind? 6. How do we know that Jesus' healing the disabled woman (vv. 10-17) is connected to his answer of what the Kingdom of God will be like (vv.18-21)?7. Verses 18-21 give us a picture that the Kingdom of God will be established often in slow, seemingly unnoticeable ways rather than spectacular displays of spiritual might and triumphant conquest. How have you seen this in the history of the church? How does this encourage you now? 8. Jesus' For followers of Jesus, his restoration work in us has already started, but not yet fully completed. How might knowing the “already … not yet” nature of God's restoring work in us lead to increased hope, joy, and peace in our hearts? 9. What is one area of your life where you could make a small beginning (as small as a mustard seed) of faithfulness, that God might use to further his unstoppable Kingdom?Prayer

You’re The One (God’s Posture)

Shepherd of the Valley Church Sermons

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 11, 2025

Share a time when you felt seen in a crowd—what did it mean to you? If you were a shepherd, what kind of sheep would be the most frustrating for you? The Parable of the Lost Sheep - Read Matthew 18:12–14 What surprises you about the shepherd's actions in this story? How does this parable reveal something about God's heart? Jesus Sees the One - Read Luke 8:43–48, John 5:1–9, and Luke 19:1–10 What do these encounters teach us about the way Jesus noticed people? Which story do you relate to most, and why? We Were the One - Read Romans 5:6–8 In what ways have you personally experienced God “coming after you”? Jeremey spoke about his friend Kent who was “for him.” Who are some of the “Kents” (people God used) in your life to draw you closer to Him? Vision: For The One - Read Together “Empowered by the Holy Spirit, we walk with each one in our communities so together we experience life as Jesus meant it to be.” What does it mean to be “empowered by the Holy Spirit” in everyday relationships? If God is calling us to walk with one person in our community, what might that practically look like? From the Perspective of the 99 - Read Luke 15:1–7 Why do you think Jesus told this parable to the Pharisees? What's the danger of being content as one of the 99? How can we, as “the 99,” celebrate when God goes after someone else? Walk it Out This week, prayerfully ask God to show you one person in your life who was “for you” as a tangible example of God's grace. Take time to thank that person for the impact they have had on your life.

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Now is the Time

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Play Episode Listen Later Sep 7, 2025 35:42

Discussion Questions:Sermon Overview Main Point: Escape from death by turning to God while there's still time.Repentance is the only escape from death (vv. 1-5)The opportunity to repent will soon end (vv. 6-9)Digging Deeper Read Luke 13:1-9On Judgement and Death1. The passages of the last few Sundays have had the theme of judgment. How did Pastor Brett's illustration about the instructions of a guide on a whitewater canoeing trip help us better appreciate why Jesus is repeatedly reminding his disciples (and us) of the coming judgment? 2. In this passage, Jesus wants to help us avoid drawing straight-line conclusions from our circumstances to what God thinks of us (“Life is going great, so God must be pleased with me.” / “Life is really hard right now, so God must be angry with me.”). Instead of this way of thinking, what should we think when we see death around us? 3. Pastor Brett said, “Sin is a debt. You cannot understand Christianity if you don't understand this.” What did he mean by this? Do you agree? On Repentance4. This passage (Luke 13:5) says that repentance is the one way to escape from death. What is (and what isn't) repentance? 5. Have you repented? 6. What does repentance look like in your life? The Limited Time to Repent7. “Why hasn't Jesus returned yet?” How could you use these verses as a part of an answer to that question?8. Verses 6-9 highlight that the time for repentance is now, because the opportunity to repent will soon end. If you're a follower of Jesus, what is an appropriate response(s) in light of this truth? 9. If you're a follower of Jesus, now that you know the time to repent will soon end, how does it impact the way you engage with unbelievers?10. With whom in your life that isn't a follower of Jesus might God want you to share these truths?Prayer

Luke 9:46-62 | The Mission Expands | Correcting Misperceptions

Eternal Church Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 24, 2025 36:31

We all want to be great at something. Even those who might appear to shy away from it or minimize it probably do so as a result of having failed to achieve it previously. Jesus' disciples were no different. They find themselves in a disagreement about who is greatest…or which one will end up as Jesus' right hand once the kingdom fully comes. Jesus offers several rebukes and rebuttals to patiently but powerfully reframe the conversation and redefine what true greatness looks like. The disciples are confused…and by extension, so are we today. What does true greatness look like in Jesus' kingdom?Read Luke 9:46-62 and see if you can make sense of the greatness Jesus pursues.

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Luke 9:28-45 | King Jesus is Greater Than...

Eternal Church Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 17, 2025 37:55

I'm excited to have the added privilege of opening God's word with you all this Sunday, we will pick up from last week in Luke's gospel. Read Luke 9:29-45 in preparation for this Sunday. This text is so rich, and Lord willing we will be able to engage well with the passages before us.

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Stress is Bad

Church on the Hill, McMinnville (Audio)

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 10, 2025 68:15

Write-upDebt hurts and causes stress. And stress is bad! Debt can hurt marriages, fill people with angst and anxiety, and keep us from being free by binding the borrower to the lender instead of God. In this message, we will discuss how to leave debt behind and why God calls us to plan for a life of financial freedom. Life Group Questions1. Tomorrow gets you $100,000. What do you do with it?2. What is your worst buyer's remorse story?3. Have you ever been able to develop a process to help plan your way to financial freedom?4. Read Luke 14:28, what benefit does a plan have for you and your finances? Do you think you have the discipline to follow a financial plan?5. End your time by praying for one another.

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How Do You Read? Luke 10, 25-37, Pentecost 5

Immanuel Lutheran Church Charlottesville

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 13, 2025 18:16

pentecost luke 10 read luke

Luke 7:36-8:3 || "For She Loved Much"

Eternal Church Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 29, 2025 46:31

A Pharisee, a prostitute and a parable walk into a sermon…This isn't a joke. And you don't have to wait for a punchline.Read Luke 7:36-50 and we'll figure out how it all ties together this Sunday!

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#60: Beholding Jesus in the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:1-2)

God-besotted Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 16, 2025 27:16

The good life. No matter who you are, chances are you have a picture of what it looks like—and how to achieve it.When Jesus opens His first sermon in the New Testament with the famous words, “Blessed are the poor in spirit,” He introduces a new paradigm for the good life—a stunning invitation to true joy in God's kingdom. The Beatitudes, eight powerful statements from Jesus, show us what following Jesus really means—and why it's the best decision we'll ever make. In this episode, we unpack Matthew 5:1-2, the introduction to the Sermon on the Mount, asking questions of the text and finding answers by searching Scripture. If you want to dig deeper into the themes of this episode, here are a few reflection questions and passages to consider:Which of the eight beatitudes surprises you the most right now? Why?Read Luke's account of the beatitudes in Luke 6:17-26. What differences do you notice? Does anything stand out that you're interested in learning more about? Why?Consider beginning our study of the beatitudes in prayer. Ask God to open your eyes to behold wonderful things about Jesus in His Word! To get you started, here's a guided prayer:Jesus, You are prophet, law-giver, teacher, preacher, and king—help me to see You with my heart.May I know You as my king, and follow You with joy.This is the blessed life—to be with You and bring You glory, now and forever. Amen.

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The Surprising Power, Priority, and People of Jesus

god jesus christ prayer christians priority align digging deeper surprising power discussion questions read luke

Play Episode Listen Later May 18, 2025 45:09

Discussion Questions:Sermon Overview Align your life with the real Jesus.#1: Align your trust with the astonishing power of Jesus (vv. 37-43a)#2: Align your priorities with the perplexing priority of Jesus (vv. 43b-45)#3: Align your relationships with the unconventional people of Jesus. (vv. 46-50)Digging Deeper Read Luke 9:37-501. What circumstances make it challenging for you to trust in Jesus? (e.g., work, family, parenting, health, future, money, etc).2. What would it look like to deeply trust in Jesus' astonishing power for that circumstance? As a group, consider if there are passages that relate.3. Since exploring or following Jesus, what has surprised you about who he is?4. Jesus was compassionate with the needs in front of him without losing sight of his primary mission to save sinners through his death and resurrection. What needs are in the world around you that God may be calling you to address?5. The priority of Jesus' life was to go to the cross and die. What priority does the gospel of Jesus have in your life? How does it show up?6. Are there other things in your life that you find can, at times, replace the gospel of Jesus as your first priority? Please share.7. How can we help one another guard against this?8. The disciples were seeking greatness by comparing themselves to one another. Jesus offers greatness by means of a relationship with him. Why is the latter avenue for greatness far better?9. True greatness involves humble service to all out of obedience to Jesus. Does this characterize your life? If so, how? If not, what would it look like to grow?10. The disciples were hesitant about other people joining their tribe (see vv. 49-50). Are there ways you can feel territorial as you look at other Christians?11. Do you look at other Christians or ministries or churches with a prideful eye of skepticism? If so, don't name anyone in particular, but share how Jesus' words in verse 50 can be a help to you. Prayer

Day 2614 – The Road To Jerusalem: Why Are You Looking Among The Dead For Someone Who Is Alive?

Wisdom-Trek ©

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 22, 2025 30:37 Transcription Available

Welcome to Day 2614 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom Day 2614 – The Road To Jerusalem: Why Are You Looking Among The Dead For Someone Who Is Alive? Putnam Church Message – 04/20/2025 Sermon Series: The Road to Jerusalem Message 3: Why are you looking among the dead for someone who is alive? Last week, we explored The Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem. We answered the question, How do we respond to Jesus' Triumphal Entry today? 1) Believe that Jesus is the Messiah. 2) Serve him as King. 3) Proclaim his praises. This week is the third and final Easter message about The Road to Jerusalem. Today, ask the question, Why are you looking among the dead for someone who is alive? The passage we will cover today is Luke 24:1-12, pages 1642-1643 of your Pew Bibles. INTRODUCTION: Today is Easter, Resurrection Sunday. We have followed Jesus and his disciples on the road to Jerusalem in the last two weeks. Last week, we witnessed Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday. But a lot happened in that one week between Palm Sunday and Easter, this week that we often call Holy Week. Let me recap the events of Holy Week for you. On Monday and Tuesday, the conflict between Jesus and the religious leaders escalated as he drove out the merchants in the Temple Court of Gentiles. On Wednesday, Judas met with the religious leaders and arranged for Jesus' betrayal. On Thursday, Jesus met with his disciples in the Upper Room and shared the Last Supper with them. Later that night, Jesus was arrested while praying in the Garden of Gethsemane. Early Friday morning, Jesus was tried before Pilate and sentenced to death. By Friday evening, Jesus was crucified, dead and buried. Saturday was a Sabbath day of rest. And so, at last, we come to Sunday morning. Only seven days had passed since the triumphal entry, but so much had happened in between. Imagine how the disciples felt at this moment. They were in shock from the events of Thursday and Friday. They were in mourning over the death of their Lord and friend. And they were hiding in fear for their own lives. Jesus had warned them that the road to Jerusalem was the road to suffering and the cross, but somehow, they did not understand. But now Sunday morning had arrived, and everything was about to change. (Read Luke 24:5-8 and pray.) 5 The women were terrified and bowed with their faces to the ground. Then the men asked, “Why are you looking among the dead for someone who is alive? 6 He isn't here! He is risen from the dead! Remember what he told you back in Galilee, 7 that the Son of Man[a] must be betrayed into the hands of sinful men and be crucified, and that he would rise again on the third day.” 8 Then they remembered that he had said this. OPENING PRAYER “Why are you looking among the dead for someone who is alive? (

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Day 2609 – The Road to Jerusalem – The Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem

Wisdom-Trek ©

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 15, 2025 31:35 Transcription Available

Welcome to Day 2609 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom Day 2609 – The Road to Jerusalem: The Triumphal Entry Into Jerusalem Putnam Church Message – 04/13/2025 Sermon Series: The Road to Jerusalem Message 2: The Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem Last week, we explored Jerusalem: The End of the Road or Just the Beginning. It was about the parable of the Ten Servants and their investment in what the King had given them. This week is the second of three Easter messages about The Road to Jerusalem. Today, we will explore The Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem. The passage we will cover today is Luke 19:28-40, pages 1631-1632 of your Pew Bibles. INTRODUCTION: Throughout the ministry of Jesus set his face towards his eventual arrival into Jerusalem. His disciples followed him as he walked the long road towards the cross, although they did not fully comprehend what Christ would have to go through./ It was on this day, what we call Palm Sunday, that he finally reached his goal. This is the week that Jesus entered the city of Jerusalem to suffer and die for our sins. But you would hardly know it from the amazing reception he received as he entered the city. (Read Luke 19:36-38 and pray.) 36 As he rode along, the crowds spread out their garments on the road ahead of him. 37 When he reached the place where the road started down the Mount of Olives, all of his followers began to shout and sing as they walked along, praising God for all the wonderful miracles they had seen. 38 “Blessings on the King who comes in the name of the Lord! Peace in heaven, and glory in highest heaven!”[a] Opening Prayer This event we are looking at today in Jesus' life is often called the Triumphal Entry. We all know the scene well: Jesus entering Jerusalem accompanied by waving palm branches, /cheering the crowds, /and great anticipation. If you were a visitor to Jerusalem on this day and were unfamiliar with Jesus' life and teachings, you would probably be wondering what this was all about. Well, let's take a closer look at this passage and find out for ourselves. There are three things we see happening in our passage this morning. First, Jesus presents himself as the Messiah./ Secondly, the people proclaim Jesus as the Messiah./ Finally, Jesus accepts their praise of him as Messiah. (Bulletin Insert) Jesus presents himself as Messiah (28-34) So, first of all, Jesus presents himself as Messiah. The Messiah was the coming Deliverer God had promised the Jewish people many years before. For much of the later part of the Old Testament and during the intertestamental period, the Israelites looked forward to the coming of Messiah. Messianic expectation ran high among the people of Jesus' day. There were many false messiahs between the...

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Shaped by Jesus: The Transformation of James & John | Sunday Message (Pastor Jonathan Laurie)

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Play Episode Listen Later Mar 2, 2025 45:11

God doesn’t want us to remain how He found us. He wants us to grow, to be refined. It’s a lifelong process, and it’s one even the most famous biblical figures experienced. Notes: Focus verses - Mark 1, Mark 10 Jesus picked ordinary men. We all are called by God. Jesus meets us where we are; not where we think we should be. You are called by God. James and John struggled with pride, impatience, and a fiery zeal. #1 The Raw ElementsMark 1:19–20 James and John were impulsive. Jesus is constantly calling us closer to Himself. Read Luke 9:53–56 James and John were nicknamed “The Sons of Thunder.” #2 The Refining ProcessMark 10:37–41 God’s discipline is a sign of His love. "But He knows where I am going.And when He tests me, I will come out as pure as gold." Job 23:10 (NLT) James and John started out as rough, impulsive, self-seeking men,but they didn’t stay that way. #3 The Finished ProductActs 12:1–2 “I, John, both your brother and companion in the tribulation and kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ, was on the island that is called Patmos for the word of God and for the testimony of Jesus Christ.” Revelation 1:9 (NKJV) The process of being refined by God is lifelong. 1. Pray2. Serve3. Give4. Be Present --- Learn more about Greg Laurie and Harvest Ministries at harvest.org. This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.Support the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jesus and the Man Who Needed a Second Chance | Sunday Message