Podcasts about reading luke

Hello and welcome to Christchurch Xscape's Sunday Service. Today we continue our new series 'Gospel Shorts: Big Truth in Small Moments.'Please feel free to get in touch ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hello@xchurch.org.uk⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Reading: Luke 17:11-19Our podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/xchurch/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Our blog for thought-provoking articles ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://xchurch.medium.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Sign up to our fortnightly email ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://xchurch.us8.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=2ef1fcfe581f6926a1507b6e0&id=ff02df616e

February 15, 2026Today's Reading: Luke 18:31-43Daily Lectionary: Job 11:1-20; John 5:19-29“And those who were in front rebuked him, telling him to be silent. But he cried out all the more, ‘Son of David, have mercy on me!'” (Luke 18:39)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Have you ever had someone ask you to do something, and you didn't listen to them? A parent? A friend? A sibling? A teacher? A coach? A boss? Or have you ever asked someone to do something for you, and they didn't listen to you?Depending on the situation, sometimes when people don't listen to what we're saying, in order to get them to hear us, we might shout it. I have three kids, ages nine, seven, and four. There have been plenty of times where we've had to shout at our kids because we want to keep them safe (crossing the street without looking, running in a parking lot, running on a dock without a life jacket on, play fighting with pointy sticks, the list goes on and on).The blind beggar cried out to Jesus because he wanted Him. When the people tried to silence him, he cried out even louder. Even though this blind beggar had not seen Jesus, he had heard about Him and believed in Him. Sometimes you hear faith described as “believing without seeing.” Certainly, in this instance, it's fitting. And what did he want from Jesus? Mercy. I've sometimes heard mercy described as “not getting what we deserve.” We, who have not seen Jesus, ask Him to be merciful to us, too. In our confession of sins, sometimes we say the words of the tax collector, “God be merciful to me a sinner” (Luke 18:13). We do not deserve God's forgiveness because we are sinners. We deserve death, we deserve Hell. God would be just and right in giving us that. Instead, God in His mercy gives us Jesus to be the atonement for our sins, sacrificing His life voluntarily on the cross for us, not giving us what we deserve. He gives what we deserve to Jesus. Jesus suffered death and Hell for us. And in faith, gifted to us by the Holy Spirit, we receive Christ's mercy. In faith, we don't get Hell; we get heaven and eternal life. Thanks be to God!And in our daily living, we can cry out to God for healing, for help in struggles, for whatever we need. And no matter how loud we are, we know He hears us, and answers according to His good and gracious will.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.O God of mercy, God of might, in love and pity infinite, teach us, as ever in Thy sight, to live our lives in Thee. And Thou, who cam'st on earth to die that our lost world might live thereby, O hear us; for to Thee we cry, in hope O Lord, to Thee. (LSB 852:1, 2)Rev. Glenn Worcester, pastor of Peace Lutheran Church, Winnipeg, ManitobaAudio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Better understand difficult and overlooked Old Testament passages in this new book by Authors R. Reed Lessing and Andrew E. Steinmann. Their conversational yet academic writing style makes learning about the Old Testament accessible to those at all points in their Bible reading journey. Discussion questions at the end of each chapter invite you to think more in-depth about what you just read and record your answers. To stretch your understanding, a list of resources for further reading is also included at the back of the book.

Hello and welcome to Christchurch Xscape's Sunday Service. Today we continue our new series 'Gospel Shorts: Big Truth in Small Moments.'Please feel free to get in touch ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hello@xchurch.org.uk⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Reading: Luke 13:1-9Our podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/xchurch/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Our blog for thought-provoking articles ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://xchurch.medium.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Sign up to our fortnightly email ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://xchurch.us8.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=2ef1fcfe581f6926a1507b6e0&id=ff02df616e

Today's Reading: Luke 8:4-15Daily Lectionary: Job 5:1-27; John 2:13-25“And when a great crowd was gathering and people from town after town came to him, he said in a parable, ‘A sower went out to sow his seed.'” (Luke 8:4-5)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.It's a strange time of year for a gardening lesson, isn't it? As I write this, I am sitting poolside in the sunshine, watching my kids during swimming lessons. That is the time for a planting lesson. But as you read this in the dead of winter, snow on the ground, if you're in the north, frozen tundra, and Jesus speaks to us about planting. PLANTING! I don't even have any seeds ready!   Why would this be the appointed reading for a Sunday in February? We are closer to Christmas than planting season. It's strange. Strange until you realize what Jesus is explaining. Not prepping for the coming growing season, but giving us a lesson on the Trinity.  In the explanation of the parable, Jesus says the agent who works faith through the Word of God is the heavenly gardener, the great cultivator of faith, the Holy Spirit, and we know He works in mysterious ways. Where He works, how He works, is not revealed to us until we see the fruits of faith displayed in others. Just like Jesus said in the parable. The seed is planted, but the gardener knows not how until he first sees the blade, then the ear, and then the full grain in the ear.  Oh, how that seed, faith, is sustained! The Holy Spirit uses Holy fertilizer! First, there is the Word of God! This will be the focus of tomorrow's Reflection. But know that it is through our hearing that our faith is nourished and strengthened.    There is also His most holy meal, the Lord's Supper! For, as the Pastor says, as he places into your hands the bread and wine, “The Body and Blood of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ given and shed for you for the forgiveness of your sins.” He also says after your reception of this holy food, “The Body and Blood of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ strengthen and preserve you to life everlasting.” The Giver of the feast offers nothing other than Himself to for your benefit, for your eternal good. Nothing is greater than that!  This is the blueprint for the planting, growth, and sustaining of faith. God be praised that He does it all for our sake.     In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.O God, the strength of all who put their trust in You, mercifully grant that by Your power we may be defended against adversity; through Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen. (Collect of the Day for Sexagesima)Rev. Timothy Chase, pastor at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Truman, MNAudio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Better understand difficult and overlooked Old Testament passages in this new book by Authors R. Reed Lessing and Andrew E. Steinmann. Their conversational yet academic writing style makes learning about the Old Testament accessible to those at all points in their Bible reading journey. Discussion questions at the end of each chapter invite you to think more in-depth about what you just read and record your answers. To stretch your understanding, a list of resources for further reading is also included at the back of the book.

Kingdom Advancement | Andrew Hamm | 2.1.26 What does it really mean to advance the Kingdom of God? In this message from Family Church, Andrew walks us through the biblical foundation of Kingdom Advancement, showing how it weaves through Scripture from Genesis to the Great Commission. Using Jesus' call to Peter—"From now on, you will fish for people"—this teaching challenges believers to live with faithful consistency, discipline, and stewardship, even when results aren't immediately visible. You'll be encouraged to: Embrace the hard but meaningful work of following Jesus Let go of the pressure to "save" people and trust God with the harvest Take faithful steps forward, even when it feels awkward or uncomfortable Live a life of active obedience fueled by rest, trust, and the Spirit If you've ever felt unsure of your role in sharing your faith or advancing God's Kingdom, this message will bring clarity, encouragement, and renewed purpose. 00:00 – Introduction & Honoring Pastor Steve Andrew reflects on legacy, faithfulness, and the vision of Family Church. 02:15 – Prayer for Pastor Woody & the Team A moment of prayer and trust in God's provision. 03:10 – Core Value Focus: Kingdom Advancement Why spiritual growth and kingdom advancement cannot be separated. 04:35 – Kingdom Advancement Throughout Scripture From Genesis to the Great Commission. 06:10 – Reading Luke 5:1–11 (Fishing for People) Jesus calls Peter into a new kind of work. 10:45 – What "Fishing for People" Really Means Understanding the trammel net and the work behind the metaphor. 13:40 – Stewardship, Discipline, and Consistency Why these traits must work together in every area of life. 16:30 – Working From God's Rest The importance of Sabbath and trusting God with outcomes. 19:45 – Faithfulness When Nothing Seems to Be Happening Why diligence still matters when results aren't visible. 22:20 – Jesus' Yoke Is Easy, Not Passive Letting Jesus carry the weight while we stay obedient. 25:10 – The Fruit of the Spirit & Self-Control Why obedience and love are active choices. 28:45 – Embracing Awkwardness & Taking the First Step Why fear and discomfort shouldn't stop obedience. 31:00 – The Parable of the Talents Why doing something matters more than doing nothing. 34:10 – God Brings the Harvest Faithfulness prepares the nets—God fills them. 36:00 – The Great Commission & Final Encouragement Living boldly, trusting God, and advancing His Kingdom.

February 2, 2026Today's Reading: Luke 2:22-32 (33-40)Daily Lectionary: Zechariah 12:1-13:9; Titus 1:1-2:6“Lord, now you are letting your servant depart in peace, according to your word” (Luke 2:29)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Jesus' earthly parents were devout, church-going people. Because they cared about God and His commands, they brought Jesus to the Temple to offer the sacrifice commanded in Leviticus 12:1-8. It seems that Joseph and Mary were not well off; Leviticus 12:8 says that two turtledoves or pigeons could be offered by those who cannot afford to offer a lamb. But this historical fact is not merely due to financial circumstances. Jesus does not need a lamb given for Him because He is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!That is to say, Jesus Himself will be the great and final sacrifice to take away sin, undo the rule of the Devil, and overthrow death. None of this is by accident. God first promised this shortly after Adam and Eve sinned and were given the pronouncement of the curse. A Son of woman will come to crush the serpent, God said in Genesis 3:15. And this Son would do so by being struck by the powers of evil and their king, Satan. But they would not overcome Him.And this was not a secret. Even though it seems like many people at the time missed this, the main purpose of Jesus' ministry on earth, there were still those who heard this often-repeated promise in the Law and the Prophets of the Old Testament: God will send a Man to save His people from sin and death.This is why Simeon, when he recognized Jesus by the Holy Spirit, sang out that He is now able to depart in peace. The salvation, the long-hoped-for restoration and redemption of Israel, was now there in his arms in the Person of Jesus. And this Baby was no mere religious teacher or prophet; He is God in the flesh. In Christ, God Himself has come to us to save us by His death. For this reason, each of us Christians may depart in peace, the very peace of Christ. In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Almighty and ever-living God, as Your only-begotten Son was this day presented in the temple in the substance of our flesh, grant that we may be presented to You with pure and clean hearts; through Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen. Rev. Christopher Brademeyer, St. John's Lutheran Church in Oakes, NDAudio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Better understand difficult and overlooked Old Testament passages in this new book by Authors R. Reed Lessing and Andrew E. Steinmann. Their conversational yet academic writing style makes learning about the Old Testament accessible to those at all points in their Bible reading journey. Discussion questions at the end of each chapter invite you to think more in-depth about what you just read and record your answers. To stretch your understanding, a list of resources for further reading is also included at the back of the book.

Hello and welcome to Christchurch Xscape's Sunday Service. Today we continue our new series 'Gospel Shorts: Big Truth in Small Moments.'Please feel free to get in touch ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hello@xchurch.org.uk⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Reading: Luke 13:10-17Our podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/xchurch/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Our blog for thought-provoking articles ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://xchurch.medium.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Sign up to our fortnightly email ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://xchurch.us8.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=2ef1fcfe581f6926a1507b6e0&id=ff02df616e

January 26, 2026Today's Reading: Luke 10:1-9Daily Lectionary: Zechariah 2:1-3:10; Romans 15:1-13“The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.” (Luke 10:2)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.The Church needs workers. The Lord has ordered His kingdom in such a way that people bring His Word of peace to other people. This is one particular work, but there is a lot of work that goes into supporting this work, too. When Jesus sent out the seventy-two ambassadors to speak peace, He also appointed the sons of peace who received them to support their work by providing housing, food, and drink so that the ambassadors of peace could continue their proclamation.The Church needs workers. Titus was one of those church workers, a laborer in the Lord's harvest. We recognize Titus as a pastor and a confessor. St. Paul called him “my partner and fellow worker for your benefit” (2 Corinthians 8:23). St. Paul also describes his work in more detail in his letter to Titus: “This is why I left you in Crete, so that you might put what remained into order, and appoint elders in every town as I directed you” (Titus 1:5). The Church also needs administrators. The Church needs workers. What work are you able to do? Can you preach? Can you teach? Can you comfort? Can you serve? Can you make music? The Church has many needs and a variety of professional offices, each with its own qualifications and requirements (your own pastor is an excellent resource for discovering these opportunities to work in the Church).The Church needs workers. But the Church also needs sons and daughters of peace to receive these workers. The Church needs workers, and those workers need the Church to support them. Make sure your pastor and other professional Church workers get paid a decent salary, “for the laborer deserves his wages” (Luke 10:7b). “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few,” says Jesus. “Therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.” The Church needs workers, and both the Church and the workers need your prayers. Whether you work or receive, support or pray, know that the Lord Jesus is the Lord of the harvest. He is the one who sends workers to the Church, so that the kingdom of God may come near you.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Almighty God, You called Titus to the work of pastor and teacher. Make all shepherds of Your flock diligent in preaching Your holy Word so that the whole world may know the immeasurable riches of our Savior, Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.Author: Rev. Jacob Ehrhard, pastor of St. John's Lutheran Church and School in Chicago, IL.Audio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Better understand difficult and overlooked Old Testament passages in this new book by Authors R. Reed Lessing and Andrew E. Steinmann. Their conversational yet academic writing style makes learning about the Old Testament accessible to those at all points in their Bible reading journey. Discussion questions at the end of each chapter invite you to think more in-depth about what you just read and record your answers. To stretch your understanding, a list of resources for further reading is also included at the back of the book.

Hello and welcome to Christchurch Xscape's Sunday Service. Today we continue our new series 'Gospel Shorts: Big Truth in Small Moments.'Please feel free to get in touch ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠hello@xchurch.org.uk⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Reading: Luke 8:43-48Our podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/xchurch/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Our blog for thought-provoking articles ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://xchurch.medium.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Sign up to our fortnightly email ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://xchurch.us8.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=2ef1fcfe581f6926a1507b6e0&id=ff02df616e

January 1, 2026Today's Reading: Luke 2:21Daily Lectionary: Isaiah 61:1-11; Luke 1:57-80“And at the end of eight days, when he was circumcised, he was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before he was conceived in the womb.” (Luke 2:21)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.There is something remarkable and yet so subtle in the Christmas story: the Holy Child of Bethlehem is not called Jesus until the eighth day when He is circumcised. Before verse 21, He is referred to as the baby, the child, Christ, and Lord, all glorious titles, but the personal, saving name of Jesus is bestowed upon Him in the covenant of circumcision. This is not merely a name His parents have placed upon Him from their own whims. It is the Name given by the Father in Heaven. “You shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins” (Matthew 1:21). Jesus means “YHWH saves.” This is God's covenant Name for His Son. And Jesus lived by it to completion. He is what His Name declares: YHWH saves. From His circumcision to His crucifixion, from that first cut of blood to the New Creation of His resurrection, Jesus fulfills the meaning of His Name for you and me. And now, you who are baptized, you are in His Name. You have been baptized into the Name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit (Matthew 28:19). You are clothed in Christ. His Name is on you even as you now dwell in His Name. When the Lord sees you, He does not remember your sin or your shame, but sees the beloved child now dwelling safely in the shelter of the Name of Jesus, “YHWH Saves!” So call upon His Name. Live under His Name. And rejoice that, as Acts 4:12 says, “there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.” The Name was given, the flesh was cut, the covenant fulfilled. Your name was given, the Water and the Word applied, and now the salvation declared in the Holy Name of Jesus is yours.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Lord God, You made Your beloved Son, our Savior, subject to the Law and caused Him to shed His blood on our behalf. Grant us the true circumcision of the Spirit that our hearts may be made pure from all sins; through Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.Author: Rev. Matthew Synnott, associate pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church, Peoria, Illinois.Audio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Work through the first ten chapters of Matthew and learn more about who Jesus is. As you move through this study, you'll ponder the theological, practical, and historical considerations of the text. With ample room for personal notes, this study will have you feeling confident in your understanding of Matthew's Gospel. Matthew 1:1-11:1 of the new Concordia Commentary Bible Study Series is available now.

December 31, 2025Today's Reading: Luke 12:35-40Daily Lectionary: Isaiah 60:1-22; Luke 1:39-56“Blessed are those servants whom the master finds awake when he comes…You also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.” (Luke 12:37, 40)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Awake and ready! These are the words our Lord Jesus uses to describe the mission of His disciples, you and I included. In other words, Christ Jesus has served us with His everlasting love and mercy given on the cross, and He has summoned us to Christian vigilance. How different it is in the world on this day they call “New Year's Eve.” The past is drowned in licentiousness and over-indulgence in libations, the future is ushered in with revelry, and the next day brings the same old-same old. The same sinner led astray by the same sins and the same empty promises. Christian vigilance is different, though; it is a sanctified sobriety! When we hear the word “sober,” it's easy to think it means somber, overly serious, or no fun. But go back to those words of our Lord, “Awake and ready.” To be awake means your eyes are open; open to the truth of the Gospel, open to the truth of what is pleasing in the sight of the Lord, and open to the joy of eternity with Christ. You are not lulled with the sleep of sin or the numbing pleasures of a passing era because your eyes are on the splendid promise of Christ Jesus. To be ready means that your eyes are not only opened, but you are dressed in your baptismal identity as servants of righteousness. Your belt tightened, your lamp of faith lit, and your hands ready to serve Him in the places He has given you responsibility. Jesus is not calling us to earn our salvation in watchfulness, but to live as those who by grace, belong to Jesus the master, and to live as those who know the joy that is coming. For when the Master returns, it is He who will dress Himself in action and serve us. This passage is not just a warning; it is a joyful promise of what is to come. He will serve us with resurrected bodies. He will serve us by gathering us unto His presence forever. In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.“Wake, awake, for night is flying,” The watchmen on the heights are crying; “Awake, Jerusalem, arise!” Midnight hears the welcome voices And at the thrilling cry rejoices; “Oh, where are ye, ye virgins wise?” The Bridegroom comes, awake! Your lamps with gladness take! Alleluia! With bridal care Yourselves prepare To meet the Bridegroom, who is near.” (LSB 516:1)Author: Rev. Matthew Synnott, associate pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church, Peoria, Illinois.Audio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Work through the first ten chapters of Matthew and learn more about who Jesus is. As you move through this study, you'll ponder the theological, practical, and historical considerations of the text. With ample room for personal notes, this study will have you feeling confident in your understanding of Matthew's Gospel. Matthew 1:1-11:1 of the new Concordia Commentary Bible Study Series is available now.

December 29, 2025Today's Reading: Luke 2:(22-32) 33-40Daily Lectionary: Isaiah 55:1-13; Luke 1:1-25“...for my eyes have seen your salvation that you have prepared in the presence of all peoples…” (Luke 2:30-31)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.It is now the fifth day of Christmas, and what is it that you see? Do your eyes gaze on a tree that was once brimming with anticipation, gifts, and loved ones? But now does it feel like an empty shell? Do you look at your house, dormitory, or apartment and see emptiness where there was once the hustle and bustle of family gatherings? Or perhaps you look at a countertop that is stacked with papers, a reminder of everything you failed to do before the rush of Christmas Eve/Day? Our dear brother, Simeon, by the Holy Spirit was promised “consolation.” His eyes, like many others, looked at a temple that was bereft of the glory of God; the LORD's weighty and splendid presence no longer there. But all of it changed that day when the blessed Mother arrived at the temple with the Holy Child, Jesus. “That's the One,” the Spirit of God affirmed in Simeon. And it is here that Simeon sings a crucial song about his eyes, “My eyes have seen your salvation that you have prepared in the presence of all peoples.” What is it that Simeon's eyes see? A temple with no glory? No. A life that is too old or far gone? No. What is it that Simeon sees? He sees the reason that he can be set free in peace. He sees the very light that will lift the nations out of darkness and idolatry. He sees the glory of Israel. He sees SALVATION! What is it that Simeon beholds in faith? Jesus. And that is all he needs. It's no wonder that after we have beheld and tasted of Christ, through His Body and Blood in, with, and under the bread and wine, we Lutherans sing with Simeon his song! For with eyes of faith, the light of Christ has cast away our sin with forgiveness, our death with Life. The glory of Jesus has crowned us, so that we may be changed from glory to glory (2 Corinthians 3:18). So then, it is now the fifth day of Christmas, and what is it that you see? Promises upon promises fulfilled in Christ, that is what you see.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Christ Jesus brought this gift to me, My faithful Savior, Whom You have made my eyes to see By Your favor. Now I know He is my life, My friend when I am dying. (LSB 938:2)Author: Rev. Matthew Synnott, associate pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church, Peoria, Illinois.Audio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Work through the first ten chapters of Matthew and learn more about who Jesus is. As you move through this study, you'll ponder the theological, practical, and historical considerations of the text. With ample room for personal notes, this study will have you feeling confident in your understanding of Matthew's Gospel. Matthew 1:1-11:1 of the new Concordia Commentary Bible Study Series is available now.

Hello and welcome to Christchurch Xscape's Christmas Eve Service 2025.Please feel free to get in touch ⁠⁠⁠⁠hello@xchurch.org.uk⁠⁠⁠⁠Reading: Luke 2:8-14Our podcast ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/xchurch/⁠⁠⁠⁠Our blog for thought-provoking articles ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://xchurch.medium.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠Sign up to our fortnightly email ⁠⁠⁠⁠http://xchurch.us8.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=2ef1fcfe581f6926a1507b6e0&id=ff02df616e

Reading Luke 24:50-53 where Jesus departs from His disciples and ascends back to His Father in heaven, telling them to remain in Jerusalem until the Holy Spirit come to them. Visit wwutt.com for all our videos!

Reading Luke 24:44-49 where Jesus opens the minds of His disciples to understand what was written in the Scriptures about Himself, the law, the prophets, and the psalms. Visit wwutt.com for all our videos!

Hello and welcome to Christchurch Xscape's Nativity Service 2025.Please feel free to get in touch ⁠⁠⁠hello@xchurch.org.uk⁠⁠⁠Reading: Luke 2:1-7Our podcast ⁠⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/xchurch/⁠⁠⁠Our blog for thought-provoking articles ⁠⁠⁠https://xchurch.medium.com/⁠⁠⁠Sign up to our fortnightly email ⁠⁠⁠http://xchurch.us8.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=2ef1fcfe581f6926a1507b6e0&id=ff02df616e

Reading Luke 24:36-43 where Jesus, having risen from the dead, appears to His disciples and proves to them that He's the same Jesus they know, now back to life. Visit wwutt.com for all our videos!

Reading Luke 24:25-35 where Jesus on the road to Emmaus speaks to His disciples about what the Scriptures say concerning the Christ, and how Jesus fulfilled them. Visit wwutt.com for all our videos!

Reading Luke 24:17-23 where the risen Jesus walks with two disciples who don't recognize Him, and they explain to Him everything that's happened recently in Jerusalem. Visit wwutt.com for all our videos!

Reading Luke 24:13-16 where after rising from the dead, Jesus encounters a couple of disciples on the road to a town called Emmaus, but they are kept from recognizing him. Visit wwutt.com for all our videos!

Reading Luke 24:10-12 where the women who found the empty tomb of Jesus and heard from the angels went and delivered the news to the eleven disciples who did not believe them. Visit wwutt.com for all our videos!

Reading Luke 24:4-9 where the women enter the tomb looking for the body of Jesus, and two angels appear to them and tell them that He is not here but He has risen. Visit wwutt.com for all of our videos!

Reading Luke 24:1-3 on the morning of the resurrection, when the women come to the tomb of Jesus and find the stone rolled away and the body of Jesus is gone. Visit wwutt.com for all our videos!

Full-chapter, Jesus-centered Advent readings, rooted in themes of longing, preparation, incarnation, and hope. Each passage invites joyful anticipation of Christ's coming. May this daily rhythm of listening to God's Word shape your heart in this season of waiting

Full-chapter, Jesus-centered Advent readings, rooted in themes of longing, preparation, incarnation, and hope. Each passage invites joyful anticipation of Christ's coming. May this daily rhythm of listening to God's Word shape your heart in this season of waiting

Reading Luke 23:50-56 where Joseph of Arimathea took the body of Jesus and wrapped it in a linen shroud and buried it in his own tomb, later to rise from the dead. Visit wwutt.com for all of our videos!

Reading Luke 23:46-49 as Jesus is dying on the cross and He yields His spirit into the hands of the Father, having accomplished what the Father had sent Him to do. Visit wwutt.com for all our videos!

Full-chapter, Jesus-centered Advent readings, rooted in themes of longing, preparation, incarnation, and hope. Each passage invites joyful anticipation of Christ's coming. May this daily rhythm of listening to God's Word shape your heart in this season of waiting

Reading Luke 23:44-45 where we read of the three hours of darkness that came over the land as Jesus died on the cross, and the curtain in the temple was torn in two. Visit wwutt.com for all our videos!

Reading Luke 23:39-43 where the two thieves next to Jesus on the cross speak to Him, and one asks Him to remember him when Jesus comes into His kingdom. Visit wwutt.com for all of our videos!

Reading Luke 23:32-38 where Jesus is nailed to His cross, and from there He looked at those who were killing Him and prayed, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do." Visit wwutt.com for all our videos!

Reading Luke 23:26-31 where Jesus is on His way to be crucified, carrying His cross, and on the way He ministers to some women who are weeping behind Him. Visit wwutt.com for all our videos!

Reading Luke 23:18-25 where Pilate tries to convince the people that Jesus is innocent, but he unjustly turns Jesus over to the people to be crucified anyway. Visit wwutt.com for all our videos!

Reading Luke 23:13-16 where Jesus continues to be questioned by Pilate, who finds Jesus to be innocent of the charges brought against Him, but fears man rather than God. Visit wwutt.com for all our videos!

Reading Luke 23:1-12 where Jesus is brought before Pilate and Herod to be questioned, and the two rulers became friends in doing the same evil. Visit wwutt.com for all our videos!

When Jesus said "some standing here will not taste death until they see the kingdom of God," what did He mean? Pastor Heath Lambert unpacks this challenging passage and reveals why the kingdom isn't just a future event - it's a present spiritual reality you can enter today.Timestamps0:00 - Introduction and the question0:47 - Reading Luke 9:271:37 - Why this passage is so confusing2:25 - Common interpretations: Future events2:56 - Pentecost, resurrection, crucifixion, transfiguration theories4:13 - A different approach: Kingdom as present reality4:38 - Luke 10:9-11: The kingdom has come near5:10 - Luke 11:20: The kingdom in Jesus's miracles5:43 - Luke 16:16: Entering the preached kingdom6:09 - Luke 17:21: The kingdom in your midst6:33 - Luke 18:16: Children and the kingdom6:47 - What the kingdom of God actually is7:45 - How to enter the kingdom right now8:15 - The disciples experienced it when they believedKey Topics The Confusing Statement - Why Jesus's words about not tasting death puzzle readersThe Future Event Problem - Why viewing the kingdom as only future creates difficultiesMultiple Kingdom Theories - Pentecost, resurrection, crucifixion, and transfiguration interpretationsKingdom as Present Reality - How Luke's Gospel presents the kingdom as here and nowFive Key Kingdom Passages - Luke 10, 11, 16, 17, and 18 revealing the kingdom's natureThe Kingdom Definition - A spiritual realm where God is in charge and seen to be in chargeInhabiting the Kingdom - How people enter through repentance and faith in ChristAlready and Not Yet - The kingdom is present now but comes in fullness in the new heavens and earthChildlike Faith - How to enter the kingdom today through trusting JesusScripture ReferencesLuke 9:27 - Jesus's statement about seeing the kingdomLuke 10:9-11 - The kingdom has come nearLuke 11:20 - The kingdom comes through Jesus's miraclesLuke 16:16 - The kingdom is preached and enteredLuke 17:21 - The kingdom in your midstLuke 18:16 - Children and the kingdom of GodAbout The Ten Commandments BookHeath Lambert's new book "The Ten Commandments: A Short Book for Normal People" is now available. This accessible guide explains how God's commands apply to modern life without requiring theological education. Perfect for personal study, evangelism, or gifts to friends, neighbors, and family.Order now and download a free chapter at fbcjax.com/tencommandmentsHave a question you'd like answered? Send it to markedbygrace@fbcjax.com

Reading Luke 22:66-71 where Jesus is brought to trial and asked if He is the Christ, and the reply that Jesus gave has been debated by skeptics but it couldn't be more clear. Visit wwutt.com for all our videos!

Reading Luke 22:54-62 where Peter denies three times that he knows Jesus, just as Jesus told him that he would, and then Peter goes out and weeps bitterly over his sin. Visit wwutt.com for all our videos!

Reading Luke 22:47-53 where Jesus is betrayed into the hands of those who want to put Him to death, but even in His arrest He continues to teach of what the Scriptures say. Visit wwutt.com for all our videos!

Reading Luke 22:39-46 where Jesus and the disciples go to the Garden of Gethsemane to pray, and Jesus exhorts them to pray that they may not fall into temptation. Visit wwutt.com for all our videos!

Reading Luke 22:35-38 where Jesus prepares His disciples for what is to come, and points to Isaiah 53 being about Himself, who will go and die and rise again. Visit wwutt.com for all our videos!

Reading Luke 22:24-34 where Jesus tells His disciples not to lord authority over each other but that the least among them will be the greatest in the kingdom of God. Visit wwutt.com for all our videos!

Reading Luke 22:19-23 where Jesus passes the bread and the cup to the disciples and says to them, "Do this in remembrance of me," in memory of the sacrifice He gave. Visit wwutt.com for all our videos!

Reading Luke 22:14-18 where Jesus eats the Passover meal with His disciples, and He institutes the Lord's supper, applying these elements of the meal in a new way. Visit wwutt.com for all our videos!

Reading Luke 22:1-13 where Judas under the influence of Satan enters into this plot to betray Jesus, but all of this is under the sovereign hand of God. Visit wwutt.com for all our videos!

Reading Luke 21:29-38 where Jesus finishes His discourse on the destruction of the temple and of Jerusalem, encouraging the disciples to remain steadfast until the end. Visit wwutt.com for all of our videos!

Reading Luke 21:25-28 where Jesus prophesies about the coming of the Son of Man surrounding the destruction of Jerusalem and of the temple, and what does this mean. Visit wwutt.com for all our videos!

Reading Luke 21:20-24 where Jesus continues His prophecy to the disciples about the eventual destruction of Jerusalem, that they may trust in the Lord to deliver them. Visit wwutt.com for all our videos!

Reading Luke 21:10-19 where Jesus tells the disciples about the destruction of Jerusalem and the temple, but first they would experience persecution and must hold fast. Visit wwutt.com for all our videos!

Reading Luke 21:1-4 where Jesus and the disciples observe a widow put in all that she had into the offering box because the people who should have been taking care of her hadn't been. Visit wwutt.com for all our videos!