Podcasts about read romans

Jim Keena | Guest Speaker Referenced Scripture: Romans 7:14-25 & Galatians 5:17-23 Reflection Questions: 1. In which areas of your life is your “spirit willing,” but your “flesh weak”? For example, is it exercising, organizing, cutting out junk food, or filing your income taxes by April 15th? In other words, what is something you've tried really hard to change in your life but find yourself falling back into old patterns? 2. Read Romans 7:14-25 aloud. What stands out to you in Paul's description of his inner conflict? In the sermon, Jim mentioned that when he was 19 years old, he appreciated Paul's honesty and vulnerability. How do you respond to Paul's vivid portrayal of his internal struggle? 3. Verse 15 states: “I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do.” Can you relate to this? How have you experienced this tug-of-war in your spiritual journey? 4. In Romans 7:16-17, Paul describes the source of our struggle as “sin that dwells within me.” This “indwelling sin” refers to the constant presence and influence of sin in a believer's life, even after they have been justified and regenerated by faith in Jesus Christ. Why is it beneficial to recognize this as a spiritual reality for all Christians? 5. Romans 7:22 states, “For in my inner being I delight in God's law.” How can a person genuinely delight in God's law yet still struggle to live by it consistently? What does this reveal about the journey of spiritual growth? 6. Romans 7:24 states, “What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body that is subject to death?” How does this verse express both despair and longing? Have you ever experienced that kind of desperation in your relationship with God? 7. The sermon emphasized that Romans 7:24-25 could be referred to as Paul's Four Steps. How do these steps connect to the struggle you face between your flesh and spirit? Have you taken these steps?They are:* HONEST CONFESSION: “Wretched man that I am!” (7:24a)* DESPERATE QUESTION: “Who will deliver me from this body of death?” (7:24b)* GOSPEL DECLARATION: “Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord!” (Romans 7:25a) * OPEN ADMISSION: “So then, I serve the law of God with my mind, but with my flesh, I serve the law of sin.” (7:25b) 8. Tim Keller writes, “The gospel is this: We are more sinful and flawed in ourselves than we ever dared believe, yet at the very same time, we are more loved and accepted in Jesus Christ than we ever dared hope.” How does Keller's quote relate to Romans 7:14-25? How does his quote relate to you? 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 

Romans 8–9 is often cited in support of Calvinist theology—but is that the only way to read it? We explore a Catholic interpretation of these powerful chapters, along with questions about the priesthood, interfaith prayer, and the role of bishops in setting fasting rules. Join The CA Live Club Newsletter: Click Here Questions Covered: 1:00 – Why does the office of the priesthood deserve reverence and respect and how is it beautiful? 08:23 – What kind of authority does a bishop have over fasting rules? 14:40 – Will there be a new temple built in Jerusalem? 18:52 – How do I read Romans 8-9 without reading Calvinism into it? 29:28 – Pope Francis inaugurated the Abrahamic house. Is it smart to be praying with Muslims? 36:40 – How do I respond when I don’t know the answers? 47:31 – Where do you see the papacy in the Council of Nicaea?

God is God and He remains the foundation of our becoming a disciple and for making disciples. To become a disciple who makes disciples, we have to take the step of faith with Jesus and leave our past behind. We can begin the journey to discipleship today by renewing our faith, releasing our past, and remembering who we are IN Christ.  Life Group Questions1. Our semester theme is building a culture of Sabbath. What is God teaching you through your Sabbath?2. How would you describe “Grace”?3. Read Ephesians 2:8-10. How do you respond to God's grace?4. What do you understand about God's covenant with Israel? 5. Read Ephesians 2:14-18. Do you have a seat at the table?6. Read Romans 8:9-11. As a disciple of Christ, the Spirit of Jesus dwells in you. How does this empower you?

Bob Schwahn | Lead Pastor | March 16, 2025 Referenced Scripture: Romans 5:20-21, Romans 6:1-7, 1 John 1:8, Romans 8:15-16 Reflection Questions: 1. Read Romans 6:1-7 Why is the idea of grace (our righteousness is received and not achieved) difficult for people to understand? How is grace different from how the world normally operates? Give some examples. 2. How does grace open up the possibility of people taking advantage of God's kindness and grace? 3. What are some reasons that Paul gives to believers as to why it makes no sense to take advantage of grace by continuing sin? 4. What does it mean that we have “died to sin”? (v. 2) What does it NOT mean? 5. In v. 3-7 Paul explains our union with Christ. What does it mean that we are united with Christ? What are some of the implications of being united with Christ? How does this change the way we relate to sin? 6. Why can it be difficult to believe that we have been “set free from sin” in our personal experience? What is an area of your life that you need to be set from sin? Do you believe that you are set free? Why or why not? 7. Is there sin in your life that you have made peace with that you need to wage war? Explain. What is your next step to battle against sin in your life? 8. Read Romans 8:15-16 What is the role of the Holy Spirit in helping you understand our freedom and union with Christ? Do you experience the Holy Spirit that way? Why or why not? 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 

Practical Points of Peace(Philippians 4:2-9) For the bulletin in PDF form, click here. Message SlidesConflict, Imitation, and Citizenship - George GuthrieGod's Peace and the Beautiful Life - George GuthrieFighting for Peace - SwindollIntroduction: Joyful Christians in a Turbulent World Rejoicing, Prayer, and PeaceUnity and peace are a powerful witness.(4:2-7)Live in Harmony in the LordAll believers must be unified to advance the gospel (4:2-3).Joyful Christians are a Clear Testimony Confident prayer leads to joy and peace (4:4-7). Meditation, Practice, and PeaceWhat you really believe determines how you really behave.(4:8-9)Meditations: Foundations of a Christian Mind Focus on the tested and true (4:8).Mentoring: Expressions of a Christian Mindset Put into practice what you believe (4:9). Christians' unity, joy, and peaceadvance the gospel witnessbefore a watching world. Still in Bed"We read of spiritual efforts, and our imagination makes us believe that, because we enjoy the ideaof doing them, we have done them. I am appalled to see how much of the change which I thought I had undergone lately was only imaginary.The real work seems still to be done. It is so fatally easy to confuse an aesthetic appreciation of the spiritual life with the life itself—to dream that you have waked, washed, and dressed, & then to find yourself still in bed."C.S. LewisHome Church QuestionsRead Philippians 4:2-9. Is there an immediate insight or application you would like to share from the passage or the message?Euodia and Syntyche had to work at their relationship for the sake of unity “in the Lord” (verse 2). What issues tend to divide brothers and sisters in Christ to the detriment of unity?Paul directed these ladies to agree (be of one mind) “in the Lord.” How is this achieved when you have differences with another believer?Life is not always enjoyable. Read verses 4-7 again. What key truths in these verses allow you to rejoice in the Lord “always,” even in circumstances that are not enjoyable?Read Romans 5:1-5. On a scale of 1 to 10, how would you rate your ability to rejoice in life's irritations and difficulties? What truth from the question above will help you do this?How does verse 6 tell you how to deal with anxiety? How good are you at releasing your anxiety in this way?Verse 7 refers to the peace of God and verse 9 refers to the God of peace. To what degree are you experiencing the peace of God right now? If your heart is not at peace, what truth or promise from Scripture do you need to grasp?As you close your time, pray together that each of you will know the peace of God that passes understanding and display true peace to an anxious and troubled world.Pray for the Unreached: The Burmese in Myanmar (Burma)The Burmese people of Myanmar, numbering over 31 million, are predominantly Buddhist, with only 0.35% identifying as Christians and 0.08% as evangelicals. Their culture blends Buddhism with animistic beliefs, often centered around appeasing spirits called nats. Despite civil wars, ethnic divisions, and ongoing political unrest, the Burmese maintain rich traditions. Pray for peace among the Burmese and for a spiritual hunger among them that results in disciple making movements.FinancesWeekly Budget 35,297Giving For 03/02 43,310Giving For 03/09 42,264YTD Budget 1,270,698Giving 1,273,145 OVER/(UNDER) 2,447Fellowship 101We invite you to join us on Sunday, April 6, at 9:00 a.m. to learn more about Fellowship. This is a great opportunity to hear about our mission, values, and our ministries. If you're new to Fellowship, join us in the conference room (first floor) to hear what God is doing and where He is taking us. During this time, you will meet some of our ministry leaders and get to ask questions. Register at fellowhipconway.org/events.New to Fellowship?We are so glad that you chose to worship with our Fellowship Family this morning. If you are joining us for the first time or have been checking us out for a few weeks, we are excited you are here and would love to meet you. Please fill out the “Connect Card” and bring it to the Connection Center in the Atrium, we would love to say “hi” and give you a gift. Men's Muster 2025 A car out of alignment is harder to steer, wears down faster, and wastes fuel. Ever feel the same? Worn down. Burning energy. Pulled off course. It's time to realign. Join us April 25-27 for Men's Muster at our NEW location—Ferncliff Camp & Conference Center in Little Rock (45 min from Conway). Take a weekend to rest, recharge, connect, and have fun. Chris Moore will lead a powerful discussion on realigning your life with the gospel. Don't wait—register today at fellowshipconway.org/register. Registration deadline is April 10.Fellowship Women's Ministry Spring Conference & Luncheon Join us on April 12th, 10 am-4 pm, for our Fellowship Women's Ministry Spring Conference & Luncheon with the inspiring Cathy Lee! Dive deep into scripture with Cathy as she covers many aspects of spiritual gifts. Registration fee of $25 is due at time of registration and includes lunch. Register at fellowshipconway.org/register. Deadline to register is Sunday, April 6th. Childcare is available by texting Shanna at 501-336-0332 Silent Auction | April 6thYouth and College Mission Teams will host a Silent Auction on Sunday, April 6th, at 4 PM. Let us know if you have a service, item, or experience you can donate to be auctioned off. We would love to have it. To donate an item or for any questions, please contact our College Pastor, Andrew Stauffer at astauffer@fellowshipconway.org. Prayer During ServiceWe love to pray for one another. Our prayer team will have people at the front of the Auditorium under the signs Hope and Love to pray for you after the message. Please feel free to walk up to them for prayer or encouragement during the first worship song after the message.

CD 1705 Turmoil: Toppled or Toppling  March 9, 2025 A.M. Service “Turmoil”, or stress is something that we all face daily. However, according to the American Institute of Stress, 33% of people feel extreme stress, 77% of people feel stress that has some impact on their physical health, and 73% of people have their mental health impacted.Over 48% of people report having sleep problems as a result of stress - of “turmoil”.In this message our Father wants to reveal what is truly on the inside of us versus what is trying to enter in!  When you're in “turmoil” meaning stressed, signals are sent to different parts of the body to alert them, which can lead to physical manifestations ranging from headaches to nausea.See link: https://www.mcleanhospital.org/essential/stressNote turmoil means a state of great disturbance, confusion, and uncertainty!Let's think about that just for a minute. Note “turmoil” means a state of “great disturbance”, In truth, "disturbance" can be accurately described as a lack of peace! In the King James Version Bible 429 times in 400 versus we have the word peace! Jesus Himself is the Prince of Peace! Have you accepted Him in that truth? Turn with me in your Bibles to 3 openings for our “text” this morning please:*Text Matthew 26:30-38*Read Isaiah 9:6 (KJV) For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.Remind yourself at the moment of salvation the “The Prince of Peace” comes to live on the inside of you! When we stay full of Him there is no place for “great disturbance”! Note “turmoil” also has to do with “confusion”:*Read 1 Corinthians 14:33 (KJV) For God is not the author of “confusion”, but “of peace”, as in all churches of the saints.The Lord saves and places those who would be saved into His church “of peace”!And finally note that “turmoil” has to do with “uncertainty”:*Read 1 Timothy 6:17 (KJV) Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in “uncertaint riches”, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy;#1 Peace with God*Reread Isaiah 9:6 (KJV) For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.*Read Romans 5:1, 8-10 (KJV) Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: 8 But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. 9 Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. 10 For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life.*Read Romans 8:16-17 & 31-32 (KJV) The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: 17 And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together. 31 What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us? 32 He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?#2 Peace over the flesh*Reread 1 CoSupport the show

Life Group Discussion Questions:Read Romans 16:1-16 God commends those men and women who have served, sacrificed, worked hard and have authentic love for God and people.Which one of these do you exceed in and which one of these do you need to grow in?

Bob Schwahn | Lead Pastor | March 2, 2025 Referenced Scripture: Romans 5:5-11, Romans 8:14-16, Romans 6:3-4 Reflection Questions: 1. How can you know that a person loves you unconditionally? What would give you the confidence that their love would never change? 2. Have you ever experienced someone who loved you even in the face of failure on your part? Describe that experience. What were some of your thoughts and feelings? How did that affect your relationship? 3. Have you ever questioned God's love for you? What made you question it? Explain. Do you still have questions? Why or why not? 4. Read Romans 5:5 How does the indwelling Holy Spirit allow us to experience the love of God? How have you experienced the love and presence of God through the Holy Spirit personally? Explain. How can a person grow in this? How does Romans 8:14-16 help explain the role of the Holy Spirit? 5. Read Romans 5:6-8 What was our state of being before God when he reached out to us in love? What adjectives does Paul use to describe us? How do those words make you feel? 6. If God loved us at our lowest, how can we be sure that he will always love us? What do we need to do when we doubt God's love for us? 7. Read Romans 5:10 Paul describes us as God's enemies before we put our faith in Christ. From what you know about Paul, how was an enemy of God before he met Christ? How were you an enemy of God before you met Christ? How does the label of “enemy” of God strike you? Explain. 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/connectcardConnect: Get your children connected to our children's ministry, Base Camp: https://journeybozeman.com/childrenConnect: Our Student Ministry is for High School and Middle School students: https://journeybozeman.com/studentsGive: Want to worship through giving and support the ministry of Journey Church: https://journeybozeman.com/giveGather: Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/JourneyChurchBozemanGather: Download our app: https://journeybozeman.com/app Gather: Join our Facebook Group to stay connected throughout the week: https://facebook.com/groups/JourneyChurchBozeman

This is it, the finale of the sermon series, “Give Us Your Heart”. We have enjoyed the journey through Scripture that this series has led us on. This week, Pastor Jeni preaches through the book of Romans - chapter 6. Within this hard-hitting chapter of Scripture from Paul to the church in Rome, we find incredible insight into our freedom in Christ and what He calls us to do with this freedom (pursue holiness). Join us for our final week in the series, “Give Us Your Heart”. *READ ROMANS 5 throughout the week, ROMANS 6 for the message.Things to consider as you listen:Dead to sin, alive in Christ!We are no longer slaves to sin!!Do not let sin control the way you live.Sanctification is choosing your master.

We Win Through Prayer | Romans 8:26-39Prayer is the key to victory! In this powerful sermon, we dive into Romans 8:26-39 and discover how the Holy Spirit intercedes for us, how God works all things for our good, and how nothing can separate us from His love. When we don't know what to pray, the Spirit steps in. When we feel weak, God is strong. And when we stand in prayer, we stand in victory!As a church, we must reclaim the power of prayer—seeking God until we see a movement of His Spirit. Pray until Pentecost.

Bob Schwahn | Lead Pastor | February 23, 2025 Referenced Scripture: John 16:33, Romans 5:1-5, Hebrews 5:7-9 Reflection Questions: 1. What thoughts or ideas from the sermon stuck out to you?. Read Romans 5:1-5 2. How have you or people close to you experienced suffering and pain in life? In what ways was it handled well or not so well? 3. How have you observed God producing perseverance and character and hope in your life through suffering? If not, why not? Explain. 4. How do the truths of v. 1 -2 help us to have God's perspective on suffering? Why is it important to understand the truths of the Gospel to understand our suffering? How can these truths bring comfort? 5. What are some biblical examples you can think of where God allowed and used suffering/pain in the life of his children? Read Hebrew 5:7-9 6. How does seeing that even Jesus suffered in this life give us perspective on our own suffering? What does that teach us? 7. What are areas of suffering in your life currently that you need to surrender to God's power and process? What practical steps do you need to take in order to accomplish that? 8. How does suffering and pain help us to put our focus on God? 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/connectcardConnect: Get your children connected to our children's ministry, Base Camp: https://journeybozeman.com/childrenConnect: Our Student Ministry is for High School and Middle School students: https://journeybozeman.com/studentsGive: Want to worship through giving and support the ministry of Journey Church: https://journeybozeman.com/giveGather: Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/JourneyChurchBozemanGather: Download our app: https://journeybozeman.com/app Gather: Join our Facebook Group to stay connected throughout the week: https://facebook.com/groups/JourneyChurchBozeman

1. Read Acts 9: 1-19. How does Saul's encounter with Jesus demonstrate God'sgrace?2. Have you ever experienced a moment in your life where God's grace completelychanged your direction?3. Saul went from being a persecutor of Christians to one of the greatest apostles.What does this say about the power of God's grace?4. How does Paul's transformation challenge the way we view people who seem"too far gone" for God to reach?5. Paul's first response after his conversion was to be baptized and begin preaching.How do we respond when we experience God's grace in our own lives?6. What are some practical ways we can live as transformed people, just as Pauldid?7. Ananias played a crucial role in welcoming Saul and helping him take his firststeps as a believer. Who has been an “Ananias” in your life - someone whoencouraged you in faith?8. How can we be like Ananias to others who are new to faith or struggling in theirspiritual journey?9. Sometimes we struggle to accept God's grace for our own past mistakes. Whatdoes Paul's story teach us about releasing guilt and walking in grace?10. Who in your life do you need to extend grace to, just as God extended grace toPaul?11. Read 1 Timothy 1: 12-16, where Paul reflects on God's grace in his life. Howdoes this passage encourage you in your own walk with God?12. Identify an area in your life where God has transformed you over time. How canyou share that testimony with someone this week?13. Read Romans 12: 1-2. How does grace lead to a renewed mind and atransformed life?Prayer for the Week:Gracious and Mighty God,Thank You for the transforming power of Your grace. Just as You met Saul on theroad to Damascus, meet us in the places where we need Your mercy and grace.Open our eyes to see You more clearly, soften our hearts to receive Your love, andstrengthen our steps to follow where You lead.Help us to trust that no one is beyond Your reach, including ourselves. Fill us withthe same boldness and passion that You gave Paul, that we may share Your gracewith the world. Use us this week to be a light, an encourager, and a witness to thelife-changing power of Jesus.In Jesus' name we pray,Amen.

Life Group Questions:1. Read Romans 14:1-112. How have you seen disputed matters (opinions NOT regarding sin) positively or negatively impact an individual or the church?3. God lays out principles on how to navigate disputed matters. See if you can find them before Sunday in the remainder of this passage.

Pastor Zohary Ross continues The Jesus Way: Journey Through the Sermon on the Mount, exploring Jesus' radical call to love our enemies, reject retaliation, and reflect God's perfect love. Jesus doesn't lower the standard—He calls us to be transformed into His likeness.Matt 5:38-42Retaliation v Reconciliation. What would it look like to give more than is required? Read Romans 12:18. In what relationships do you need peace?Is there anyone around you to whom you need to extend “second mile” service?Matt 5:43-48We have a choice how we respond. When is it difficult to extend grace instead of holding onto being “right”?Jesus loved us - while we were his enemies (Rom 5:8-10). Who can you show Christ-like love to this week?Pray: For one another to surrender to the work of the Holy Spirit in making us perfect (mature and complete) and growing us into unoffendable peace-makers.Zohary RossFebruary 2, 2025Matthew 5:38-48The Jesus Way: Journeying Through the Sermon on the Mountwww.newnorth.church

Belonging Have you ever walked into a room full of people and still felt alone? Or wondered why, no matter how much you do, it never feels like enough? We're all searching for belonging, but too often, we look in the wrong places—performance, approval, relationships—only to be left feeling empty.  This week, we're diving into what it really means to belong. John 14:18 reminds us that Jesus never leaves us searching—“I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.” True belonging isn't something we achieve; it's something we receive. Join us as we unpack how to stop searching and start living in the love that's already ours.  John 14:18  Discussion topics Read John 14:18 – “I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.”  What does this verse reveal about God's heart for us?   How does this speak to the human desire to belong? Read Romans 8:15 – “The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship.”  What does it mean to be adopted into God's family?  How does knowing you are a child of God change the way you see yourself? The older brother in the Prodigal Son story was in the father's house but still felt disconnected. How do we sometimes live that way in our faith?  What's one area of your life where you feel like you don't fully belong? How can you invite God into that space? This week, how can you be more intentional about helping someone else feel like they belong?  Check out our other audio series and video playlists that can help you find Jesus in every moment and then discover what's next

Life Group Questions:Read Romans 13:11-141. Are there any areas in your life God revealed you have been asleep and is asking you to awaken?

Read John 8: 2-111. Today's passage is one of the most well-known stories in the Bible. Why doyou think it resonates so much with people throughout the ages?2. What was the Pharisees' true intention of bringing this woman before Jesus?What did they want to happen?3. Pastor Mick said it seems like the Pharisees are acting pretty smug in thispassage. What do they say that might be interpreted as smug or sarcastic?4. Pastor Mick asked the question of whether we think this woman was a “vixenor victim.” What did he mean by that? What do you think? Does it matter?Why/why not?5. Why did Jesus bend down and draw in the dirt? What was the underlyingmeaning of this in his culture?6. How did Jesus flip the script, or turn the tables, on the Pharisees? How didhe avoid the trap the Pharisees set for him? What did he say?7. Why did the Pharisees drop their stones and walk away? What does thismean for us today?8. What does Jesus say to the woman? What does this teach us about grace,repentance and life-transformation?9. Read Romans 8: 1. How does this relate to today's passage? What does itmean for our lives?10. Read Romans 7: 19. What does this mean for us and our need tocontinually repent?Prayer for the Week:Gracious and loving God, we come before You with humble hearts, grateful forYour boundless grace and mercy. Just as You showed compassion to the womancaught in sin, You extend forgiveness to each of us, even in our moments offailure and struggle. We confess that, like Paul, we often find ourselves doing thevery things we hate, trapped in the cycle of sin and shame. But we praise You forthe truth that there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.We thank You for the freedom You offer through Your Son, our Lord and Savior.Help us to live in the light of Your grace, walking in freedom and righteousness,knowing that in You, we are made whole. We pray all of this in the strong nameof Jesus, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, One God, now andforever. Amen.

Today's episode is a little bit like a benediction to 2024 and a little bit like an invitation to all of us for 2025. “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may OVERFLOW with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit”! We'll be talking about my "word" for 2025 and the invitation that has me excited about what's in store for this new year. Listen in! Read Romans 15:13 above! Questions from today's episode: Do I tend to view life as a grand adventure with God, or more like a difficult exam I have to pass, or perhaps there's another analogy that represents my life better? What are the implications of this viewpoint? Is there an invitation from God for me here today? How will I respond?

Life Group Discussion Questions:1. Read Romans 12:9-212. How is God challenging me in response to this truth?

The Breastplate of RighteousnessText: Ephesians 6:14 Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; READ Romans 5:1-6We need spiritual protection for the heart, and Paul calls it, ‘the Breastplate of Righteousness.' So, we need to learn what this breastplate is, and how we employ it in our defence. But first, let's ask what he means by ‘righteousness.'The sermon was recorded at Templepatrick Reformed Church and is reproduced here with their kind permission.Read the NOTES HERE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Life Group Discussion Questions:1. Read Romans 12:1-22. How is God challenging me in response to this truth?

Almost exactly twenty years ago, today’s guest, popular international speaker Carol Kent was thrust into a situation that made her feel as if her world was unraveling. Her son was arrested for murder, revealing just how little control we parents often have over our children’s lives. Though her life felt out of control, she found peace and security through surrender. She discovered God is big enough and strong enough and loving enough to carry her through she did or might someday face. Group Discussion Questions:1. What resonated with you most in Carol’s story?2. When do you most feel out of control?3. How do you typically respond when life feels out of control?4. What lies does Satan tend to whisper to you when you feel out of control? 5. Read Romans 8:28-29. What does this passage tell you regarding our most fearful, “out of control” situations?6. How might your current circumstances point you to heaven? Resources:• When I lay My Isaac Down by Carol Kent, released by NavPress: http://urlme.cc/6VQd• He Holds My Hand by Carol Kent, released by Tyndale Publishers: http://urlme.cc/rVRvFind Carol Kent: On her website Facebook the Speak Up for Hope site Find Jennifer Slattery: On her website Instagram Facebook Amazon Subscribe to her free newsletter Join the private Faith Over Fear Facebook Group (Inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.) Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Carlos Velez helps us forget about New Year's resolutions and behavior modification to experience life transformation through Jesus instead, challenging us to understand God's mercy better and respond with a life full of worship toward him. Watch the full service: https://youtube.com/live/58Y5KT2oOaY CHAPTERS: 00:00 The Problem with New Year's Resolutions 03:32 Read Romans 12 04:27 About the Therefore 05:58 What We'll Learn & Do Today 08:29 Reading Romans 14:30 A Transformed Life Understands God's Mercy 16:22 A Transformed Life Responds Appropriately 23:38 A Transformed Life Thinks Differently 28:26 Homework 30:28 Closing 32:00 Prayer BIBLE VERSES IN THIS EPISODE: Romans 12:1-2 Romans 8:5-8 THIS SERIES: A Transformed Life New year, new resolutions, right? We try to change our habits or situations, but let's be honest—once the motivation fades, so does our effort, leaving us feeling stuck like nothing really changed. Sound familiar? Sometimes, we treat our faith the same way. But living as a Christian isn't just about checking off your New Year's resolutions. It's about something much deeper. Together, we'll study Romans 12 and explore how to break free from surface-level behavior modification and step into a transformed life that's all about Jesus and His love. NEXT STEPS: Submit a Prayer Request: https://www.calvary-church.com/prayer New to Calvary? Start Here: https://www.calvary-church.com/new Give Financially to Support Our Mission: https://www.calvary-church.com/give Get Baptized: https://www.calvary-church.com/baptism Join a Group: https://www.calvary-church.com/groups WHO WE ARE: We're so glad you're listening today! At Calvary Church, we believe that as we connect with God and he impacts our lives, we are sent to connect with others and impact their lives with the gospel. With a new message each week, we have a ton of videos to help you connect and impact as you join in on our mission to continue what Jesus started. Subscribe to let us know you're here, and get ready to worship with us this Sunday at 9:30am in Souderton or Quakertown, Pennsylvania, as well as online. FOLLOW US: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@calvarychurchpennsylvania Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/calvarychurchpennsylvania Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/calvarychurchpennsylvania Website: https://www.calvary-church.com

ISAIAH 9:6-7 6 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 7 Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David's throne and over his kingdom, establishing it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this.  FROM THE LESSON An Anointed Person - in Hebrew (the language of the Old Testament) the word is meshiach, from which we get the title, Messiah. In Greek (the language of the New Testament) the word is christos, from which we get the title, Christ. A Promise to David - "When your days are over and you rest with your fathers, I will raise up your offspring to succeed you, who will come from your own body, and I will establish his kingdom...and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever. I will be his father and he will be my son...Your house and your kingdom will endure forever before me; your throne will be established forever." (2 Samuel 7:12-16) 14 Generations - in Matthew's genealogy, there are fourteen generations from no king to a king (Abraham to David), fourteen generations from a king to no king (David to exile), and fourteen generations from no king to a king (exile to Jesus). Drum Roll Please - “The average person who thinks maybe I'll read the New Testament is puzzled to find, on the very first page, a long list of names he or she had never heard of. But it is important not to think that this is a waste of time. For many cultures ancient and modern, and certainly in the Jewish world of Matthew's day, this genealogy was the equivalent of a roll of drums, a fanfare of trumpets and a town crier calling for attention.” (NT Wright) Eager Expectation - it is a word found only in Christian literature. Paul used it twice in the New Testament (Romans 8:19 and Philippians 1:20). In fact, most scholars think it was a word coined by the early Christians to describe their unique way of living. Literally the word means "to stretch your head away from your body." DISCUSSION QUESTIONS 1 Do you enjoy learning about your family's genealogy? Do you have any interesting information to share about your family tree? Share with your group.  2 Have you ever thought it strange that the New Testament begins with a genealogy? Does it help you better understand the purpose of the genealogy to think of it as "the equivalent of a roll of drums, a fanfare of trumpets, and a town crier calling for attention"? 3 Read Romans 8:19 and Philippians 1:20. The word Paul used in these two verses is translated as "eager expectation." It is a word to describe the unique way that early Christians lived. Can you think of a time when you have lived "eagerly expecting" something or someone? Describe how it affected the way you lived.  4 Would you say as Christians that we live in "eager expectation" of the return of Jesus Christ? Discuss with your group.  5 The season of Advent teaches us to learn from our ancestors to once again be a people who long for the coming of our King. How might we live differently if we lived eagerly expecting the coming of our King?

The Occult, reason and intelligence, engaging an agnostic are some of the topics on today's episode of Called to Communion with Dr. David Anders.

The Occult, reason and intelligence, engaging an agnostic are some of the topics on today's episode of Called to Communion with Dr. David Anders.

WEEK 11 OF 16  // Chris WilliamsWhat is the best word to describe your feelings about this week's election? Why did you choose that word?Read aloud Romans 13:1. How does his verse affect your view of this year's electionPlease share one of your recent Unashamed H.E.A.R. Journal entries with your group.What do you hope God will do in your life as we begin the final few chapters of Romans?Read Romans 12:2 aloud. In your opinion, what does it look like to "conform" to this world? When are you most tempted to think, act, and be like our culture?What would it look like to "Renew your mind" this week? How can we best help you pursue God's will this week?Sermon Locations and Times: Sundays Services are at 9:30 AM and 11:00 AM at 2601 E Alex Bell Rd Dayton, OH 45459 You can join us online on Facebook or YouTube at 11:00 AM.

Discussion Questions Sermon Overview A life pleasing to God includes humbly, genuinely loving his people in the local church.Digging Deeper    Read Romans 12:3-101. Our seventh Defining Value as a church is “Growing Relationships within the Local Church.” (You may want to reread this section of the Defining Values document.)  What are some of the ways you see this value lived out in our life as a church? Are there ways you would like to see us grow in this? How so?   2. When you think of church (or “the church”), what comes to mind?3. Over the last twenty years or so, there has been a decline (accelerated by COVID), in church attendance, even among those who claim to be Bible-believing, evangelical Christians. What are some of the reasons people offer for not attending a local church (or not attending very often)?        4. How might this passage and this sermon help us as we seek (with humility, gentleness, and love) to encourage ourselves or those in our lives who are currently not attending church (not engaged in / participating in a local body), to consider a greater degree of engagement? 5. Pastor Brett helped us see from Rom. 12:3-10 that “A life pleasing to God includes humbly, genuinely loving his people in the local church.”  What are some of the reasons it can be hard to love God's people in our local church? 6. How does the Gospel provide the motivation and power we need to love others well?7. God calls us to humbly serve one another with the gifts he has given us (Rom. 12:3-8). What gift(s) has God given you? How are you using them to serve God's people? How might you grow in using the gift(s) he's given you more effectively? 8. One aspect of loving one another is dealing rightly with good and evil in ourselves and one another (“Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good.” v. 9b).  What is a specific situation in your life right now where God is calling you to do this? What might obedience to this verse in that situation look like for you? 9. God calls us to treat one another (within the church) as a family (“love one another with brotherly affection” v. 10a).  What is one specific concrete thing you could do this week to put this into practice? 10. One of the ways we can genuinely love one another is by “lead(ing) the way in putting others first.” (“Outdo one another in showing honor.” v. 10b). To whom in your life could you seek to show honor? How might you do that this week (in word or deed)? Is there anything in your heart that resists that? If so, please share.Prayer

1. What does the word “faithful” mean to you? What does it mean forGod to be faithful?2. What does it mean for God to be faithful in his promises? Can youthink of examples in the Bible of God being faithful to his promises?How about in your own life?3. What does it mean for God to be faithful in provision? ReadMatthew 6: 25-34. What does this tell us about God's provisions forlife?4. God is faithful in presence. How was God present in the lives of thosein the Bible? How is God present in your life and the world today?5. Read 1 John 1: 9. What does this tell us about God being faithful inforgiveness? What is required of us? How does the thief on the crossvalidate this truth? (see Luke 23: 32-43)6. What does it mean for God to be faithful in discipline? Why is God'sdiscipline good? (hint: read Hebrews 12: 5-6)7. Read Romans 8: 28. What does this tell us about God being faithfulto his purpose? What does this mean for us in everyday life? Howdoes this give us hope?8. Read Philippians 1: 6. What does this tell us about God's work oftransforming us into what we are created and called to be?9. Does recognizing God's faithfulness in all of these areas help you trustGod more? If so, what impact might that have on your life?Reflection:Almighty God, what can we say, except great is your faithfulness. Evenwhen we are not faithful to you, you remain faithful to us. You keep thepromises you make to us. You provide for us. You are present with us.You discipline us, and forgive us, and transform us, all in accordance withyour ultimate purpose for us. Thank you, Lord, for the gift of your faithful-ness. Remind us that we can trust your goodness in all areas of our livesbecause you are always faithful. Help us, in turn, to be more faithful toyou. Help us to live the way you created us to live, so that we might trulychange the world through your love and power. We pray all of this in thestrong name of Jesus, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,One God, now and forever. Amen.

The enemy wants you to believe that your motherhood has no purpose. If he can get you to believe that the work you do day in and day out means nothing, then he can keep you low on the energy spiral and keep you from instilling the love and joy of the Lord into your family.In this episode, Natalie shares how to work through the lies and beliefs that motherhood has no true purpose. That what you are doing daily adds up to nothing. That is all lies the world and enemy are spreading. Your motherhood is rich with purpose and meaning! ​​Natalie's goal with this episode is to help you discredit the lies and believe that the Lord has a huge purpose for you as a mother. He wants you to see it, live it, and find joy through serving him by serving them. ​This episode will help you in your motherhood journey as you learn to find purpose in your daily life as a wife and mama!​Natalie invites you to listen in and stay for this journey.Please like, subscribe, rate, review, and share so we can help other mamas who are feeling stuck in their anger and burnout get unstuck and find JOY in their motherhood journey!Questions Natalie asks in the episode:Read Romans 12, then answer these questions below.1. Am I allowing the enemy to steal my joy by believing the lies that my role and job as a mom has no purpose?2. What am I speaking about my motherhood journey? Write three negative thoughts and replace them with three positive thoughts (look for the opposite of the negative and dig into the word to find these truths - even if you are not believing the at the moment).3. What would appreciation and being thanked do for you?4. How do you show appreciation and thanks to your family?5. Is there a purpose in helping others problem-solve and fix things?6. What does purpose look like to you? (Maybe think about what you think success looks like to answer this one).Bible References:Galatians 5:13 NLTPhilippians 2:44 NLTMark 10:45 NLTEphesians 6:7-8Acts 20:35Romans 12Tools:Take your first steps to overcome destructive anger so you can be the fun, present and joyful wife and mom you want to be!Download the Trigger Tracker today!Resources & Books Natalie Recommends!Links:Refresh Your Soul to Calm the Mom Anger and RageQuestions, thoughts, feedback? Send me a text!Connect with Natalie: Natalie's Website: nataliehixson.comInstagram: instagram.com/angrymamacoachPinterest: pinterest.com/nataliehixsonYouTube: @angrymamacoachAcknowledgements: Producer and editor: Skye Hixson Music: Simon Reid www.simonreidmusic.com

3 John: Truth and Faithfulness among Friends A Survey of the Bible For the bulletin in PDF form, click here. Message Slides3 John Chart - WilsonIntroduction to 3 John - John HannahThe Occasion of 2 & 3 John - Danny AkinIntroduction to 2 & 3 John - Andrea KöstenbergerThemes in 2 & 3 John - Joel WilliamsContext: Who, Where, When, and Why?• Who composed 3 John?• Who was John's original audience?• When was 3 John written? • Where were the author and his readers?• Why was 3 John written? Content: How and What? COMMENDATION - Gaius is Faithful (1-8) . - Salutation (1-4) - Hospitality for Traveling Brothers in Christ (5) - A Worthy Reputation for Worthy Hospitality (6) - A Partnership Worthy of the Truth (7-8). CONDEMNATION - Diotrephes is Disruptive (9-10). - Character: He is arrogant and unteachable (9). - Spiteful Conduct: He is a malicious gossip (10a). - Divisive Conduct: He does not welcome brothers (10b). - Disruptive Conduct: He removes his opponents (10c). COMMENDATION - Demetrius is worthy (11-15) - Do what is right and prove you are from God (11). - Demetrius is affirmed (12). - Epilogue: Plans for a Visit and Greeting (13-15)• What is the message of 3 John? Conviction: So What?• Where does 3 John fit? - With only 219 words (in the original Greek) 3 John is the shortest New Testament book and the shortest book in the entire Bible. - Unlike 1 and 2 John which are written to churches, this letter is written to an individual named Gaius. It also includes references to two others; a warning about Diotrephes and a commendation of Demetrius. - This personal communication gives us some important insight into the life of the early church.• What should we believe? - Taking care of other believers, even if they are strangers, is an important aspect of church life. - Divisive conduct in the church is a significant issue and should be addressed directly. - Christian community should be grounded in good conduct.• How should we behave? - Live a lifestyle shaped by the truth of God's Word. - Take care of believers, even if you do not know them well. - Be discerning about divisive people in your church community.Next Steps • Be faithful to the truth and to other believers.• Beware of divisive people.• Embrace believers with a good reputation. This Week's Growth GuideGod's Word is both central and critical to your spiritual growth. We invite you to utilize the Growth Guide during the week to further your application of the Truth from the message.•. Monday - 3 John 1-6•. Tuesday - 3 John 7-8•. Wednesday - 3 John 9-10•. Thursday - 3 John 11-12•. Friday - 3 John 13-14Home Church Questions• Read the text together. How did Ken's message apply to you personally?• Gaius showed loving hospitality to the Christians who were strangers (verse 5). Read Romans 12:13, Hebrews 13:2, and 1 Peter 4:9. Do you find opening your home to other believers, even strangers, difficult or easy for you? Why is that?• What two types of assistance does John describe for Christian workers in verses 5 through 8? Would John suggest this assistance is prompted by duty or opportunity? Why (see verse 8)?• How are you (or how can you be) involved in supporting the work of those who have extended the reach of the gospel?• Look closely at verses 9 and 10 and find the various character faults of Diotrephes. When and in what ways do these self-love and self-promotion faults show up in your life? • How will these affect your life if you continue to let them guide your attitudes and actions?• In what ways do those same attitudes and actions of Diotrephes create divisions in the church? How can you help prevent this happening in our church?MISSION HIGHLIGHT - Pray for the Unreached: The North Yemeni Arabs in Yemen Yemen has a population of 13.3 million, with Islam as the dominant religion and Arabic as the spoken language. Christians make up less than 0.1%, and there is no reported movement of the gospel or written/oral scripture available in the country. Workers are needed to serve the population, with 266 required for a ratio of 1 worker per 50,000 people. Focus prayer on healing the trauma of Yemeni families affected by war, famine, and other hardships. Pray for spiritual hunger among leaders and the spread of God's Word through accessible formats like phone apps and audio.FinancesWeekly Budget 35,297Giving For 10/06 47,517Giving For 10/13 20,813YTD Budget 529,457 Giving 462,583OVER/(UNDER) (66,874)Celebrating 25 years with Ken and DawnJoin us tonight, 5-7:00 p.m., as we gather to continue to celebrate Ken and Dawn with a church-wide picnic - hamburgers, hotdogs, and pulled pork. Bring your lawn chairs and a note to Ken expressing how the Lord has used his time at Fellowship to impact your life. New to Fellowship?We are so glad that you chose to worship with our Fellowship Family this morning. If you are joining us for the first time or have been checking us out for a few weeks, we are excited you are here and would love to meet you. Please fill out the “Connect Card” and bring it to the Connection Center in the Atrium, we would love to say “hi” and give you a gift. Operation Christmas Child• Operation Christmas Child season is in full swing. The GO Store, located in Downtown Conway, is the perfect place for you to buy approved items to put in your box for a fraction of the cost of retail. That means, if you plan to pack 1 box, you might be able to pack 2 or 3 boxes for the same amount! • Build a shoebox online: You can give boys and girls in need a tangible expression of God's love through a gift-filled shoebox packed from your computer or handheld device. In just a few clicks, you can select toys and other fun items to include as well as a letter and photo to delight the heart of a child. Visit our website to learn more: fellowshipconway.org/occ. • We need MANY volunteers for OCC Collection Week, November 18 - 25, so please visit the Fellowship app on your phone and click the OCC icon to sign up or fellowshipconway.org/occ Fellowship Kids Family HikeFellowship families plan to join us on Saturday, November 9, at 10:00 a.m. Please bring a picnic lunch and meet us on the playground at Woolly Hollow. We will head out for a fun hike and come back to enjoy a picnic lunch together. Fellowship 101We invite you to join us on Sunday, November 10, at 9:00 a.m. to learn more about Fellowship. This is a great opportunity to hear about our mission, values, and our ministries. If you're new to Fellowship, join us in the conference room (first floor) to hear what God is doing and where He is taking us. During this time, you will meet some of our ministry leaders and get to ask questions. Register at fellowshipconway.org/register. Feed the Need - Sunday, November 3, 10-2:00 p.m.Multiple ways to serve! First, we need 24 volunteers to serve the day of the event at the Walmart Neighborhood Market. Volunteers will sort, box, load, and help spread the word! Register at fellowshipconway.org/register. Second, you can go to one of the participating grocery stores, shop for items on the list, and drop them with the volunteers in the parking lot! Let's help this year's event be a great success!

·      Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see – Hebrews 11:1 ·      If you don't know how faith works, you won't know how to fix it when it breaks.  ·      Frederich Buechner - Faith is the word that describes the direction our feet start moving when we find that we are loved. Faith is stepping out into the unknown with nothing to guide us but a hand just beyond our grasp. ·      Faith is a decision.  ·      Faith is a decision to move in God's direction.  ·      Faith is movement.  ·      Faith is broken when you stop walking with Jesus.  ·      Romans 9:30 - 30 What then shall we say? That the Gentiles, who did not pursue righteousness, have obtained it, a righteousness that is by faith;  ·       Romans 3:23 – For all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God.  ·       Faith makes you right with God. ·       31 but the people of Israel, who pursued the law as the way of righteousness, have not attained their goal. 32 Why not? Because they pursued it not by faith but as if it were by works. They stumbled over the stumbling stone.  ·       “I can be right with God if I am good enough.”  ·       You are too religious when you condemn and judge instead of help. ·       You are too religious when your goal is knowledge about God, instead of walking with God. ·       You are too religious when you want others to notice how good you are. ·       You are too religious when your rules keep people from Jesus. ·       You are too religious when attending church is checking off an item on your list. ·       You are too religious when baptism, baby dedication, or being an American checks an item on your list. ·       33 As it is written: ·       “See, I lay in Zion a stone that causes people to stumble and a rock that makes them fall, and the one who believes in him will never be put to shame.” ·       The only way to be made right with God is through Jesus ·       Faith means you trust what God does for you, not what you do for yourself.  ·       If your faith is not working, check and see if you are  following Jesus or trying to be good enough.  ·       If you feel tension between you and God, accept his gift of Jesus.  ·       Heavenly Father, I confess I have sinned. Forgive me.  From now on, I will follow Jesus.  Amen.   ·       PIX – David Block Sermon Discussion Questions Starter:  Describe a moment when you did not feel good enough.  What made you feel that way? 1.     Read Romans 9:30 2.     How would  you describe righteousness to an unchurched person? 3.     Why do think the Gentiles did not pursue or hunt righteousness? 4.     Do you know someone who met Jesus and turned his or her life around?  Was it an example of a righteousness of faith? 5.     Read Romans 9:30-32 6.     In your opinion, why would a Jewish person struggle with the idea that righteousness did not come from keeping the law? 7.     What are the modern equivalents of “law-keepers?” 8.     Verse 32 speaks of “the one who believes in him will never be put to shame.”  Shame relates to not being right with God.  How would you counsel someone who feels shame for their past?

The depth of our friendship with God helps us to understand why He says yes and sometimes says no. Today, we journey into the depths of that relationship and examine all the times in life when God said yes to inviting us in, our salvation, our calling, our friendship, and our place in the family of God. Our "yes" to growth will lead us to greater depths in our friendship with God.  Group Life Questions:1. What stuck out the most from the message?2. Read Romans 5:8. Briefly discuss how Christ found you. What has he saved you from?3. Read Matthew 4:19-20. Aside from saving us, describe the calling that the Lord has placed on your life. What is your life's purpose?4. Read John 15:15. Do you have a hard time accepting that Jesus is our friend? If so, how is that friendship going?5. Read John 1:12. What does it mean to you to be a child of the Almighty God?  6. End your time by praying for one another.  

Today, Pastor Carlos explores the concept of deepening our trust in God's provision. Reflect on what aspects of your life you need to entrust to God during this season: Wisdom– Read James 1:5 Comfort– Read 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 Encouragement– Read Jeremiah 29:11 Freedom from guilt and shame– Read Romans 8:1 For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Jesus didn't do things by half measures. His compassion wasn't ordinary, everyday compassion. It was radical compassion. His power wasn't religious power. It was God's awesome power.   Radical Compassion I have a confession to make. I'm not naturally a compassionate person. How about you? Now that doesn't mean that I don't care about people deeply. I do, but I'm not naturally compassionate. So, what's compassion? My dictionary tells me that compassion is a sympathetic pity and concern for the suffering or misfortunes of others. It's derived from an old middle-English word, that comes from an even older French word, that's derived from an even older Ecclesiastical Latin word, that means ‘to suffer with'. In other words, to feel someone else's pain, and then to act on that, and to do something about it. I'm pretty good at the second part – acting on it and doing something about it. I'm not always that good at the first part – actually feeling someone else's pain. Why? Because of the way I'm wired on the inside; because of my motivations and my personality-type. Read Romans chapter 12 in the New Testament, and you'll find several motivational giftings. Some of them involve a lot of compassion, and others don't. A leader who's too compassionate just won't get anything done. On the other hand, people involved in caring for others – well, they're naturally good at feeling someone else's pain, which is why we absolutely love people like that. So, why am I telling you this? Because today we're continuing our look at what it means to lead an extraordinary life by looking at how Jesus lived His life, and one of the things He had in His makeup (we see it quite clearly on a number of occasions) is compassion. And I guess, as we take a look at this side of Jesus, I just wanted to make the point that just because we don't all have compassion naturally wired into our DNA doesn't mean that we shouldn't show it from time to time. Have a listen to one of the compassionate things that Jesus did. Matthew 8:1: When Jesus had come down from the mountain, great crowds followed Him. And there was a leper who came and knelt before Him, saying: ‘Lord, if You choose, You can make me clean. He stretched out His hand and touched him, saying: ‘I do choose. Be clean.' Immediately the leprosy was cleansed. Then Jesus said to him: ‘See that you say nothing to anyone, but go. Show yourself to the priests, and offer the gift that Moses commanded, as a testimony to them.' Great crowds followed Jesus. He was a celebrity, a megastar, doing what I do, preaching the gospel. Often I'm dealing with crowds, whether here through the radio, or when I'm speaking at a church or an event, and as someone who's naturally wired with not a huge amount of compassion, can I tell you how safe and how easy that is? Speaking in front of people, you're detached. You rely on the fact that as the guy upfront, you are separated from the crowd, and that could easily have been the attitude that Jesus took. "I'll stick away from the messy individuals with all those problems and pains that are going to inconvenience Me, and I'll just preach to the big crowds." We all have our ways of isolating ourselves from the pains and the problems of difficult people. Some live in gated communities. Some have stopped attending churches. We withdraw and we try to make ourselves comfortable, but Jesus met the leper – the leper who was smelly with open, pussy wounds; the leper whom others reviled, and whom God's own Law segregated from mainstream society. And when the leper said to Jesus: "Lord, if You are willing, You can make me clean", Jesus did the one thing that no one had done since this man started exhibiting the signs of leprosy. Jesus reached out, and touched him. Touching the leper – now that's compassion. That speaks of the value that Jesus placed on this one man in his isolation and pain and suffering. In fact, Mark's gospel account tells us that Jesus was moved with compassion, and that that's what caused Him to reach out and touch this outcast. And the sense of the original Greek word translated into the English word compassion was that it was a deep, gut-reaction. It was something that Jesus felt in the core of His very being, and it was that feeling (literally the feeling of suffering with that leper in His heart, in His belly, in His gut) that caused Jesus to reach out, to touch him, and to heal him. One of the reasons often we don't suffer with people is that we're too busy. When I think about who I am – because I'm a driven, outcome-focused, delivery-oriented kind of guy – time is at a premium for me. Now don't get me wrong. In the mix of things, we need people like that, just as we need people who are nowhere near as time-focused, but who have buckets of compassion in their hearts. And what I've noticed is that when I slow down and just focus on the individual at hand, when I take the time to understand them and what they're going through, I too can experience that sense of compassion, just like the next person. It's the speed at which we move sometimes that stops us from feeling and showing compassion. See, I want to skip right over the feeling bit, and the showing bit, to the doing bit. "What can I do to help this person?" That's my natural desire, and there's a 50-50 chance that you're like that too, but often that's not what they need. The biggest thing that someone who's suffering needs is someone to stop and to be moved and impacted by their suffering. Sometimes just to understand them – to listen to them – to be with them. I remember at a time in my life when I was suffering the biggest thing I've ever suffered in my 50-something years on this earth, there were some people who wept with me. That's in fact the most powerful thing anyone's ever done with me or for me. A truly extraordinary person is someone who shows compassion, whether or not it comes naturally. Truth is, if we'll just slow down a bit, take the foot off the accelerator a bit, we're all capable of suffering with someone. We're all capable of feeling their pain. We're all capable of showing them that we feel their pain, and that will be one of the most transformative experiences of their lives. I can tell you that because I've had to learn it – because it doesn't come naturally to me. I'm still learning it, and I'll be learning it until the day I breathe my last breath. That leper – I mean, I'm sure that he was absolutely over-the-moon at being healed. In fact, we know he was. Mark tells us he went racing round showing people what Jesus had done, even though Jesus had expressly asked him not to. This guy was completely, totally over-the-moon, and why wouldn't you be? I would be; you would be. But I'm absolutely certain that in the days, weeks, months, and even years that followed, as he sat quietly by the fire in the evening at home, remembering that day in his life when Jesus reached out and touched him, that it's the love and compassion that Jesus showed him that would bring tears to his eyes. What do you think? Compassion is one of the things that sets a person apart. Compassion is one of the things that enables an ordinary person like you and me to live an extraordinary life. Compassion, in this day and age, truly is extraordinary.   Radical Power I wonder what the word power means to you. There's electrical power, there's political power, and then – then there's another type of power. It's a power that's completely set apart from any other power that you and I know about, think about, or have ever experienced, and that power is the power of God. Why is it different? Because it's greater than any power that you and I can ever experience anywhere else. Think of the immense power in a lightning bolt. It's so powerful, it's seriously scary. Well, all the power in every lightning bolt that has ever bolted down since the dawn of time is just a drop in the ocean compared to the power of God. And we're going to talk about that power right now, because it's that very power that is the key to leading an extraordinary life. When I was young, I learned the harder you work, the longer you work, the faster you work, the more you'll get done, the more items you'll be able to tick off your to-do list, and the more impact you'll be able to have in the lives of other people. But quite a few years ago, God convicted me to in fact pray more and do less. Let me say that again. Pray more and do less. Recently on the programme, I mentioned a young woman at my church – Lucy, who was convicted through one of the posts on my blog to do just that. And do you know what she reported? She said, "Wow! The things I do just have so much more impact now." After just a month, she said: "I'm having all these conversations with my friends about Jesus and one by one, they're coming to faith." I just smile to myself, because that's exactly what I found when I decided to pray more and to do less. And do you know why it is that when we pray more and do less, we get more done? It's because prayer unleashes the power of God, and it's the power of God that makes for an extraordinary life on this earth because the power of God is so much greater than anything we can ever begin to imagine. Now, engaging that power is something that Jesus didn't seem to have a problem doing; He just did it. You and I, of course, will say: "Yeah, sure, right. What do you expect? He's the Son of God, of course He had all the power. That's Him; I'm just me." But let's take a look at how Jesus tapped into that power – the power of God to do extraordinary things. Matthew 8:5: When Jesus entered Capernaum, a centurion came to Him, appealing to Him, saying: ‘Lord, my servant is lying at home paralysed in terrible distress.' And Jesus said to him: ‘Look, I'll come and cure him.' But the centurion answered: ‘Lord, I'm not worthy to have You come in under my roof, but just speak the word, and I know that my servant will be healed. For I also am a man under authority, with soldiers under me, and I say to one, ‘Go' and he goes. I say to the other, ‘Come' and he comes, and to my slave, ‘Do this' and the slave does it.' When Jesus heard him, He was amazed, and He said to those following Him: ‘Truly I tell you, in no one in Israel have I found such faith. I tell you, many will come from the east and west, and will eat with Abraham and Isaac and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven, while the heirs of the kingdom will be thrown into outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.' And to the centurion, Jesus said: ‘Go. Let it be done for you according to your faith', and the servant was healed that very hour. Let me ask you something. Was there any uncertainty in Jesus' mind about the power that God had given to Him? Apparently not. He just did what came before Him, and what came before Him that day was a man of faith. Importantly not one of God's chosen people – not a Jew, but a Roman officer – one of those whose job it was to occupy and to oppress God's chosen people, but he was a man with faith. In fact, it was faith so great that Jesus marvelled at it: I tell you, many will come from the east and west, and will eat with Abraham and Isaac and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven, while the heirs of the kingdom will be thrown into outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. And it was this faith that caused the power of God to flow through Jesus and on into this centurion's servant who, by the way, was nowhere to be seen! Remote-control distance healing. Pretty amazing stuff! No wonder Jesus marvelled at this man's faith. By way of sharp contrast, when Jesus was in His hometown of Nazareth, He was able to perform very few miracles indeed. Why? Well, let's have a look. Mark 6:3: Because they took offence at Jesus and didn't believe in Him, He did hardly any deeds of power there. In fact, Mark 6:6 says He was amazed at their unbelief. I love that. With the centurion, Jesus marvelled at his faith. But here, with God's own people, He was amazed at their unbelief! In His own hometown. It seems to me that one of the keys to an extraordinary life is extraordinary faith. Let me say that again. One of the keys to an extraordinary life is extraordinary faith – faith that goes against reason, in the miracle-working power of Jesus, the Son of God. Jesus never turned anyone away who came to ask Him to perform them a miracle – to pour the power of God out upon their lives. Not one. Why do we walk around in the miry clay – feet heavy, shoulders hunched, when we have access to the indescribable power of God to get His will done on this earth? Question for you today: Would you rather that Jesus marvelled at your extraordinary faith in Him, or at your extraordinary unbelief in Him? Well, would you rather He walked away pinching Himself to make sure that the faith He'd just seen in you was for real, or that He walked away shaking His head, wondering: "How could you display such manifest unbelief in this Jesus you confess to believe?" There are so many things in this life that we can't do – so many mountains we can't move. There are so many things Jesus calls us to do in His name that, for some reason, we think we have to do in our power. Sure, life's full of mundane; full of challenges; full of hardships, but life is also full of the power of God, and it seems to me that the difference between the extraordinary and the ordinary is a bit like the difference between the centurion and one of those locals in Nazareth.   It's Time to Go We are such masters of self-delusion, you and I. Come on, we are – well at least I am, and I know for a fact that so often the church is too. Take Jesus' great commission to His disciples. 'All power in heaven and on earth has been given unto Me,' says Jesus. ‘Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you. And remember, I'll be with you wherever you go, even unto the end of the age'. Matthew 28 – the very last thing Jesus said to His disciples. Notice what He told them to do. He told them to go – "Go on, get out there, get amongst them, this is what I've called you to do." And here we are, two thousand years on, building massive cathedrals – still sitting in our pews, expecting them to come to us. Now that's a little unfair. So many of God's people and God's ministries and God's churches are out there amongst it – going, just like Jesus told them to. Jesus didn't invite us to build a country club. He called us to go out into the world and be His hands and His feet, scarred as they are, and His voice and His heart of compassion to a lost and hurting world – to the parents of that little boy in the soccer club whose marriage is on the brink; to the guy who sits on the bench in the mall alone each day, a bit on the nose, in need of a good wash. When I was at Bible-college, I was required to go and spend two semesters with a ministry, doing practical field training. The ministry I went to as a raw, wet-behind-the-ears seminary student was Christianityworks – the very same ministry I'm involved in today. It makes me speechless to think, at a time when I knew so little, I was already writing and producing radio-programmes that would be heard by rather a lot of people. What was the principal of the college thinking? What were my lecturers thinking and come on, what was Jesus thinking, unleashing me in my ignorance to preach the gospel? Scary thought. Surely I needed to graduate first. Surely I needed to become a much deeper theologian first. Surely, there had to be something more – well, I wonder. Not long into His public ministry, Jesus sent His disciples out to do some field ministry training. He sent them off completely without Him, and without anything much else either, it would seem. These guys were just fishermen and tax-collectors – seriously uneducated, unqualified, unreligious dudes, with absolutely no qualifications to do what Jesus was calling them to do. I seriously wonder sometimes if Jesus really knows what He's up to. I mean, come on! Really! Have a listen to this. Matthew 6:6: Then He went out among the villages teaching. He called the Twelve and began to send them two by two, and gave them authority over the unclean spirits. He ordered them to take nothing for their journey except a staff – no bread; no bag; no money in their belts, but to wear sandals and not to put on two tunics. He said to them: ‘Wherever you enter a house, stay there until you leave the place. If any place will not welcome you or they refuse to hear you, as you leave shake the dust off your sandals as a testimony against them.' So they went out and proclaimed that all should repent. They cast out many demons, anointed people with oil who were sick, and cured them. Now just stop and imagine that that had been you that Jesus sent out like a sheep to slaughter. He gives you the authority to cast out demons. You've known Him for ... mmm ... 5 minutes at this point. Are you feeling confident? ‘Oh and by the way, don't take any food or money or a change of clothes, ‘cos you won't need them.' What, is He dead-set crazy – this Jesus? Maybe He's on the same stuff as John the Baptist, that lunatic in the wilderness, was on not so long ago. Do you see how easy it is for us to think in conventional terms? Do you see how easy it is for us to sit in comfortable pews, in a comfortable church-building, and complain about the air-conditioning that's not working properly? See, to us, conventional equals comfortable. Conventional equals convenient. Conventional is all about enjoying the experience. In any case, we're not that qualified yet. We need to sit in those safe, comfortable pews just a little bit longer, before we get our hands too dirty. Let me tell you something, friend (and this is for me as much as it is for you) if we're someone who believes in Jesus, then Jesus has given us the authority to cast out demons. He has given us the authority to minister in His love, in His compassion, in His power, to those around us. And not only has He commissioned us, He's commanded us to go! Conventional wisdom says that I should never have been allowed to go out back then when I was so green, and tell people about Jesus, but that's what led me on to doing what I'm involved in now, that reaches far wider – to many more people than I ever, ever could have imagined back then. ‘Cos when God calls us, when God commissions us, His power flows around us and through us to achieve what He always planned to achieve. It was the same with those early disciples. Conventional wisdom says they should never have been sent out there on their own, but they weren't on their own. The power and the presence of Christ was with them and around them, and ahead of them and behind them, through the presence of the Holy Spirit. And as a result, they went out and proclaimed that all should repent. They cast out many demons, they anointed many with oil who were sick, and cured them. You know what I get out of this? Greatness is just about going. Just get up and go – go where Jesus calls you to go. Go where Jesus leads you to go. Just take the first few steps, as whacky and as weird as it may seem to you, because when He gives us the authority to do what He's called us to do, watch out! His authority gives us the power to prevail in what He's called us to do. There are many comfortable, suburban, pew-sitting Christians, who will live out their very ordinary existence in that church. Then, there are those crazy disciples who dare to go – who dare to accept the authority given to them; who dare to live out a truly extraordinary life.

Jesus taught about prayer many times. In the sermon on the mount, Jesus narrowed it down to three words: Ask, Seek, Knock. Asking God for things as one of his children, seeking God with complete trust and confidence, and knocking on the door of heaven knowing we can approach the throne boldly. God is relational and provides for us our needs. Group Life Questions1. What stood out the most about the message?2. What has unintentionally formed your view of God?3. Read Romans 8. How does God claim you as His own? 4. How has God provided for you throughout your life?5. What fears stop you from approaching the throne of God?6. Read Isaiah 55:8. Do you believe this? Why or why not?7. Look at Mary's (Luke 1:38) and Jesus' (Luke 22:42) responses to God. Are you willing to surrender control to God?8. End in a time of prayer, BOLDLY asking God for discernment, seeking His will, and knocking on Heaven's door. 

Bob Schwahn | Lead Pastor | July 14, 2024 View or Download our full sermon notes here: https://journeybozeman.com/sermons/notes/2024.07.14.pdf Reflection Questions: 1. Read John 5:39,46 — In what ways does the Old Testament point to Jesus? What are some examples that you can think of? How can this reality change the way we read and understand the Old Testament? 2. Read Hebrews 12:5-6 — Why is it comforting to know that God tests and disciplines out of His love? What difference does this make in the midst of testing? 3. God tests us to show us where we are at and to grow us to become more like His Son. How have you experienced testing in your life? How did you respond? What did this reveal to you about yourself? How did it help you grow? Explain. 4. What could be an “Isaac” in your life? What in your life, if you lost it, would make life seem unbearable? What are you fearful of losing? What has become the center of life? 5. Read Genesis 22:1-14 — What from this story grabs your attention? What questions does it raise for you? What do you learn about God? What do you learn about yourself? How does this story connect to your life? 6. What connections to Jesus do you see in this story? How does this story point to Jesus and the cross? 7. Obedience to God is ALWAYS in our best interest. Agree or Disagree? 8. When have you found obedience difficult? How can this reveal “Isaac’s” (idols) in our life? 9. Read Romans 8:32 — How can this perspective give us courage to obey even when obedience seems difficult? 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/connectcardConnect: Get your children connected to our children's ministry, Base Camp: https://journeybozeman.com/childrenConnect: Our Student Ministry is for High School and Middle School students: https://journeybozeman.com/studentsGive: Want to worship through giving and support the ministry of Journey Church: https://journeybozeman.com/giveGather: Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/JourneyChurchBozemanGather: Download our app: https://journeybozeman.com/app Gather: Join our Facebook Group to stay connected throughout the week: https://facebook.com/groups/JourneyChurchBozeman

Joey's book Conquerors Not Captives is available at: https://www.amazon.com/Conquerors-Not-Captives-Reframing-Christian/dp/1683597702/ 

 JM's video on Romans 7 can be found at: https://youtu.be/vMlM7dws45g?si=cbDqmjXjL-sc1tii 


 Other books by Joey: A Little Book for New Bible Scholars - https://www.amazon.com/Little-Book-Bible-Scholars-Books/dp/0830851704/ 

 Paul and the Giants of Philosophy: REading the Apostle in Greco-Roman Context - https://www.amazon.com/Paul-Giants-Philosophy-Reading-Greco-Roman/dp/083085228X/ 

 Joey can be reached via his faculty page: https://deverseminary.edu/directory/dodson-phd-joseph-r 

 Follow Joey on Instagram & Twitter - @jrrdodson 
 ***Disciple Dojo shirts (including the one JM is wearing in this episode!) and other gifts are available over in our online store! - https://tinyurl.com/24ncuas2 ***Become a monthly Dojo Donor and help keep us going! - https://www.discipledojo.org/donate ***If you are an unmarried Christian looking for community, check out our Facebook group “The Grownup's Table” over at www.facebook.com/groups/grownupstable ------ Go deeper at www.discipledojo.org

RATE! REVIEW! SUBSCRIBE! Email me your thoughts, comments, and questions at caniberealpodcast@gmail.com Show Notes: ○ Romans 15:14-33 & Romans 16: 17-20, 25-27 ○ Lesson 12: "This Little Light of Mine" ○ Read Romans 15:14-33 and Romans 16:17-20, 25-27 ○ Read Inspiration from book ○ Paul position is to lead by example- he preached the Good News, and we are called to do like wise. § To be a light, to love our neighbors, to spread the gospel, to be like Christ Jesus! ○ He gives us both warnings and encouragements to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus! ○ Read Matthew 5:13-16 ○ Matthew 28: 18-20 ○ 2 Corinthians 2:14-17 ○ 1 Peter 3:15-16 ○ 1 Peter 4: 7-11 ○ Read Life Lessons from book --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/rachel398/message

Read Romans 12. Have you done an honest inventory of yourself? Do you carry a fake ID to church?

RATE! REVIEW! SUBSCRIBE! Email me your thoughts, comments, and questions at caniberealpodcast@gmail.com ○ Romans 14- 15:13 ○ Lesson 11: "Help a Brother Out" ○ Read "Situation" from book ○ Read Romans 14 ○ Read the commentary from Study Bible for chapter 14 § Consider other Non-salvation issues within Christian circles… □ Going to the movies, playing cards, drinking alcohol (not to be confused with drunkenness), etc. ○ Read Romans 15: 1-13 ○ Read the commentary from Study Bible for Romans 15:1-13 ○ Read Matthew 7:1-5 ○ Remember, this is not saying do not hold each other accountable, but rather to not be overly critical, especially when you have something that you obviously need to work on that is hindering you too --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/rachel398/message

To change your life, you must change your mind. That is why the mind is so important to be renewed daily (Read Romans 12:1-2). The fiery darts come so that you may be confused

RATE! REVIEW! SUBSCRIBE! Email me your thoughts, comments, and questions at caniberealpodcast@gmail.com Show Notes: ○ Romans 12 ○ Lesson 9: "We Belong Together" ○ Read "Reflection" from book ○ Read Romans 12 § Verses 1-2: □ This is a convicting scripture! □ A question from the book for your own consideration: "The problem with a living sacrifice is that it keeps crawling off the altar." What does that say about our tendency to hesitate in surrendering ourselves to God? □ Makes me think of 1 Corinthians 6:19-20: (context deals with sexual immorality, but applies to sin in general) ® "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." □ But it is also encouraging because there is a promise attached to it (verse 2) § We are many parts of one body, and we all belong to each other (the Church, both local congregation and the Body of Believers worldwide) □ Read part of "Inspiration" from book □ We each have a role to play in advancing the Kingdom of God and to do the good that God had planned for us long ago (Ephesians 2:10) □ Read 1 Corinthians 12: 12-27 □ Read Ephesians 4:1-16 § From the book: "We lack obedience more than guidance" □ God has told us what to do. So now what? We need to walk in obedience…love God, love our neighbors, pray for our enemies and bless those who persecute us… Read Philippians 2:13 ◊ "For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him." ○ Read Romans 12:21 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/rachel398/message

Welcome to Episode #145 of Way of the Bible podcast. This is our first of eight episodes in our nineteenth mini-series entitled, The Vineyard Owner's Son. On this episode, The Blessed and Happy, we're going to introduce this mini-series and then identify the blessed and happy in the Kingdom of God. This is our second mini-series to encounter the God/man Jesus Christ as revealed in the gospels.I want to encourage all of my listeners at the outset of this episode and for all future episodes to discover for yourself, if you have not already, the practice of Lectio Divina and/or contemplative prayer. I personally was introduced to both through the St. Ignatius Spiritual Exercises. These are all huddled under the academic heading of Spiritual Formation.Spiritual formation is ubiquitous in the world and is not limited to Christianity. Every person of every tribe, language, and nation is individually created by God in his own image and likeness. Into each person, God gives a spirit. It says in Ecclesiastes 12:7 – the dust returns to the earth as it was, and the spirit returns to God who gave it.Both the Old and New Testaments clearly indicate a result of sin is the death of this spirit to God and his commands. Jeremiah 17:9 – The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick; who can understand it? Romans 8:7 – For the mind that is set on the flesh is hostile to God, for it does not submit to God's law; indeed, it cannot. Ephesians 4:18 – They are darkened in their understanding, alienated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them, due to their hardness of heart. Colossians 1:21 – And you, who once were alienated and hostile in mind, doing evil deeds.While dead to God and his commands due to sin, this spirit given by God is not dead to the world and the powers and authorities that control it. The formation of this dead to God spirit is at the heart of all rebellion on earth. Read Romans 1:18 to the end. In this passage you'll have a very good picture of how this dead spirit to God leads mankind into ever increasing darkness and eventually literal death. In this downward spiral, the scriptures note three milestones which cause God to turn mankind over to the next iteration of self and self-destruction. At the heart of all this is Spiritual Warfare. Paul notes in Ephesians 6:12 – For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.We learn the nature of mankind in: 2 Timothy 2:26 that mankind is captured by the devil to do his will; Hebrews 2:24 that mankind is held in slavery by the devil because of our fear of death; Mark 10:18 – No one is good except God alone.The devil is called the prince of the power of the air (Ephesians 2:2), the ruler of this age (John 14:30), and the whole world is under his power (1 John 5:18). With that in mind spiritual formation in and of the world is accomplished through deceitful spirits and demons. And these were both to be anticipated in the church. 1 Timothy 4:1 – Now the Spirit expressly says that in later times some will depart from the faith by devoting themselves to deceitful spirits and teachings of demons, We are well into those later times in 2024. Here's the issue today. For two hundred years or more, the focus within the protestant churches in the West has been primarily on Soteriology which deals with who is saved, by whom is one saved, from what is one saved, and by what means is one saved. Little or no emphasis in the church has been placed on sanctification, being made into the image of Christ. 

RATE! REVIEW! SUBSCRIBE! Email me your thoughts, comments or questions at caniberealpodcast@gmail.com ○ Romans 11 ○ Lesson 8: "Am I Called by God?" ○ Read "Situation" from book ○ Read Romans 11 § God wants ALL people to come back to him! That is why sent his Son, Jesus. ® Read John 3:16-17 ® "For this is how God loved the world: HE gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal lie. God sent his Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through him. § Remember what we read last week in chapters 9 and 10: □ God made a covenant with the people of Israel, the descendants of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. (Genesis) □ As Jesus said to the woman at the well in John 4:22- "…salvation comes through the Jews." □ But the true children of promise, the children of God are not necessarily descendants of Abraham… ® Read Galatians 3:26-29 § God's plan was for all of humanity to be reconciled back to him. So, "am I called by God?" -YES, you are! □ Read Romans 8:28-29 □ Read Ephesians 1:3-14 □ Read Titus 3:3-6 □ Read 1 Thessalonians 5:5, 9-11 ○ Read "Life Lessons" from book --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/rachel398/message

RATE! REVIEW! SUBSCRIBE! Email me your thoughts, comments or questions at caniberealpodcast@gmail.com ○ Romans 9 & 10 ○ Lesson 7: "God's Plan" ○ Read Romans 9 & 10 § God's plan has been laid out from the very beginning! § I am going to share God's plan from different passages in scripture, but the point is the same! □ Read John 3: 16-21 □ Read Acts 2: 22-41 □ Read Ephesians 3: 6-12 □ Read Hebrews 10:10 (The Point) ® "For God's will was for us to be made holy by the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ, once for all time." § God's plan was always for us to be reconciled back to him, for us to be back in right standing and relationship with him, as it was in the beginning in the Garden of Eden. That's it, that's the point! So what are you going to do? --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/rachel398/message

RATE! REVIEW! SUBSCRIBE! Email me your thoughts, comments or questions at caniberealpodcast@gmail.com ○ Romans 7 & 8 ○ Lesson 6: Found NOT Guilty ○ Read Romans 7 ○ Remember last week's lesson, we are free to choose who we will serve, God and righteousness or sin and death… ○ Read from the book, Life Lessons from Romans By Max Lucado § Reflections excerpt § Situation excerpt ○ Read Romans 8 ○ Once again, Paul is reminding us that we are no longer obligated to sin! We have another choice, another way that we can choose to take. ○ God does NOT condemn you! If you have faith in Jesus, and believe that God sent his one and only Son to die once for all, to make us right with God, then God does not condemn you! If you have died to yourself and your sinful nature and have been raised to new life in Christ Jesus and have the Spirit of Christ living in you, then you are child of God, you belong to God! § See Romans 8:10-17 § See Romans 8:34-37 ○ NOTHING, absolutely nothing can separate you from the Love of God! We must remain faithful, for He is always faithful! § See Romans 8:38-39 ○ You have been found NOT GUILTY! § Now remember, you deserved a GUILTY verdict! You are in fact guilty of all the sins you have committed. § But God, in His immense love for you, sent his Son to pay the price you should have paid on the cross for your sins, so that you could wear his righteousness instead of our own filthy sinful selves. § That is Grace and Mercy! □ Read Hebrews 4:14-16 ○ Read 1 Peter 2:21-25 ○ Read Jude 1:24-25 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/rachel398/message

RATE! REVIEW! SUBSCRIBE! Email me your thoughts, comments or questions at caniberealpodcast@gmail.com Show Notes: ○ Romans 4-5:21 ○ Lesson 4: The Promise comes by Faith. ○ Remember the first lesson: the righteous will live by faith… ○ Also, if you haven't listened to the Word for 2024, go listen to it after this episode, because I talk about how "God is not a man that he should lie, God is not a man that he should change his mind", so if God said something, trust Him to make it come to pass. ○ Read: Romans 3:28-5:21 § The Bible is full of the many promises God has made to us, so I encourage you to take some time this week and dive into that if you never have! § That promise is the promise of reconciliation, forgiveness of sins, salvation from the wrath of God… □ But that promise might also be what you have been asking and waiting on God for, maybe about your relationships, your job, your family, your finances, or your relationship with Him, wanting to grow in a deeper love and understanding of Him □ Whatever that promise is, it can only be received by faith. ® Read Matthew 21:18-22 ® Read 2 Chronicles 20:20 § We read about the faith of Abraham, but as reminder of some of the things Abraham was trusting in God for, we will read Hebrews 11:6, 8-12, 17-19 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/rachel398/message

Bob Schwahn | Lead Pastor | February 18, 2024 11am Romans 2:1-4 (NIV)You, therefore, have no excuse, you who pass judgment on someone else, for at whatever point you judge another, you are condemning yourself, because you who pass judgment do the same things. Now we know that God’s judgment against those who do such things is based on truth. So when you, a mere human being, pass judgment on them and yet do the same things, do you think you will escape God’s judgment? Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, forbearance and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness is intended to lead you to repentance? Matthew 7:1-5 (NIV) Romans 2:5-11 (NIV) 1 John 4:18 (NIV)There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. Romans 2:12-16 (NIV) Romans 8:1 (NIV)Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, “There are but two objects that I have ever desired … to behold; the one, is my own vileness; and the other is, the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ: and I have always thought that they should be viewed together.” — Charles Simeon Reflection Questions: Read Romans 2:1-16What was one thing that grabbed your attention from the sermon?Where do you find yourself standing in judgment over the sin of other people? What makes you shake your head at the culture around you? What is the meaning of the word judgment in the Bible? Does this mean we don’t evaluate good and evil? Why or why not?How would you evaluate the often used statement, “Love the sinner, hate their sin.”? According to Paul in this text, what might be some problems with this statement? Bob suggested in his sermon we would be better to say, “Love the sinner, hate our own sin.” Do you agree or disagree?Read Romans 8:1. How does it make you feel that when we are in Christ (saving faith in Him) there is absolutely NO condemnation? Have you experienced the joy/freedom/gratitude that this truth produces? Why or why not?Read Romans 2:5-11. What in this section does Paul say that seems to counter the gospel message that our salvation is based only on our faith in Christ? How do you explain this seeming contradiction?If you truly believed that obedience to the commands of Jesus were in your best interest, what step of obedience would you take? What steps of obedience are you hesitant to take? Why are you hesitant?What evidence do you see in the world that people inherently have at least some sense of right and wrong? (Even if they don’t know God or His commands.)Think about the illustration of the invisible recorder from the sermon. What are moral judgments that you make that you have violated yourself?From this text and sermon… What do you sense God is SAYING to you? (Hear) What are you going to DO about that? (Obey) Next Steps: Complete the Connect Card to receive more information, have us pray for you, or to ask us any question: http://journeybozeman.com/connectcardWant to worship through giving and support the ministry of Journey Church: https://journeybozeman.com/giveDownload our app: https://journeybozeman.com/app Join our Facebook Group to stay connected throughout the week: https://facebook.com/groups/JourneyChurchBozemanGet your children connected to our children's ministry, Base Camp: https://journeybozeman.com/childrenOur Student Ministry is for High School and Middle School students:

Do you ever feel that love needs to be earned? Do you struggle to receive the love of God fully? This week's episode is our reminder that God's love is not a wage that is earned but a gift that is given. We invite you to open your heart to the endless love of God and receive His gift freely. Read: Romans 5   Sign up for the UA Gospel Choir: https://forms.gle/FZfEdgndpqxryWtZ7   RSVP for the Poetry Jam: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-un-associated-poetry-jam-7-tickets-757013165757?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurl   Please consider making  a tax-deductible donation to our ministry HERE.