Podcasts about reading matthew

Birthday Service Preacher: Andrew Southerton Date: 09⧸11⧸2025 Reading: Matthew 9:35-10:8 As we celebrate our church's birthday we reflect on what would Jesus feel when he looks at Wellington? In Matthew 9-10, we discover Jesus' gut-wrenching compassion for those who are harassed and helpless like sheep without a shepherd. Andrew explores how the harvest is plentiful but the workers are few, and what it means for us to pray, plant ourselves here, and partner in God's harvest field.

November 7, 2025Today's Reading: Matthew 24:1-28Daily Lectionary: Jeremiah 11:1-23; Jeremiah 12:1-19:15; Matthew 24:1-28“But the one who endures to the end will be saved.” (Matthew 24:13)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.One of the perks of being a disciple was that you could ask Jesus questions when you had some alone time with him. Jesus was sitting down on the Mount of Olives, which provided the opportunity for his disciples to ask a burning question about the end of the age and the sign of his return. Jesus tells of some very difficult times in the days ahead. There will be wars and rumors of wars; that's disturbing. Jesus goes on to talk of nations rising against nations, famines and earthquakes, not pleasant days to live in. And if that's not hard enough, Jesus describes the attacks that will come upon one's faith. Nations will hate those who bear Jesus' name; many will fall away from the faith due to false teachers and following those who falsely claim to be “the Christ.” Believers will be betrayed, lawlessness will increase, and love will grow cold. Jesus paints a pretty dark picture, commenting, “If those days had not been cut short, no human being would be saved.” The days that Jesus described sound all too familiar, don't they? Fighting, hatred, natural disasters, lack of daily necessities for many, attacks against the Christian faith, false teachers, these fit the times we are living in. In the midst of all this, Jesus holds out a promise, “The one who endures to the end will be saved.” That's not a very comforting promise if enduring to the end depends on us. How can we be certain we will not be one of those who “fall away” or who are led astray by false messiahs?The book of Hebrews (12:1-2) likens the days we live in to a race that we are running. Jesus himself entered the race by becoming a man. He ran the race and stayed the course, which led to a Roman cross. He endured the cross and its shame so that we might gain the prize of His salvation. So we run our race with endurance, keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus, the founder and finisher of our faith. You see, enduring to the end doesn't depend on our running ability, but it depends on the one who has already run and has finished the race for you. In this world, we will have tribulation, yet we run and endure with our faith fixed on Jesus. He is our faithful deliverer who keeps us in the race and causes us to endure in him.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Now may the God of peace himself sanctify you completely, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. (1 Thessalonians 5:23)Rev. Darrin Sheek, pastor at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church Anaheim, CA.Audio Reflections Speaker: Pastor Harrison Goodman is the Executive Director of Mission and Theology for Higher Things.This new devotional resource by Carl Fickenscher walks you through each week's readings, revealing thematic connections and helping you better understand what is to come in worship each Sunday.

November 1, 2025Today's Reading: Matthew 5:1-12Daily Lectionary: Deuteronomy 34:1-12; Matthew 21:1-22“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” (Matthew 5:8)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen. Imagine the disciples and the huge crowd gathered around Jesus for the Sermon on the Mount. They nod to each of the Beatitudes, maybe with a little less boldness as Jesus continues. Perhaps they even look around to see how the other 11 are reacting. “Maybe I'm not perfect, but I've been pretty good at this one or that.” “I think I'm good enough; I don't talk without thinking. Like Peter.” “I think I'm good enough; at least I haven't cheated people in the past, like Matthew.” But Jesus isn't talking about being good enough in other people's eyes, He is speaking of holiness before God – pure in heart – a holiness in the heart.The thing is, there is nothing pure in your heart. The Lord declares, “Out of the heart of man, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery,  coveting, wickedness, deceit, sensuality, envy, slander, pride, foolishness.” (Mark 7:21-22)  There is One who is pure in heart. Jesus Christ, our Holy God in the flesh – He alone is truly pure in heart. At your Baptism, in the Blessed Exchange, the Lord cleansed you entirely, taking all of the filth and wretchedness from your heart and trading it for all the righteousness, holiness, and purity of Jesus' heart!That Baptism was “not just plain water, but it is the water included in God's command and combined with God's word.” (Small Catechism, Baptism, 1). So with God's Word, that water delivered Jesus and His forgiveness, rescue, and salvation. You were made blessed and holy by the Holy Spirit. There is daily war against the new creature – the saint that God made at your Baptism. You face horrible hardships all of the time; some of them known only to you in the recesses of your emotional health. Non-Christians harass the Church and her baptized saints. We are weak when facing temptations. We all have our great afflictions. Before Christ returns, the afflictions will increase.You are not good enough. But Christ is perfect and pure. And He gifts you with being pure in heart, holy, and blessed. You belong to Him as His baptized saint. You sing with those saints now in the Church Militant, and one day, Christ will resurrect you and gather you with all His saints to stand before Him, arrayed in white, washed in the Blood of Jesus, and singing His praises forever.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Behold a host, arrayed in white, Like thousand snow-clad mountains bright! With palms they stand; Who is this band Before the throne of light? These are the saints of glorious fame, Who from the great affliction came And in the flood Of Jesus' blood Are cleansed from guilt and shame. They now serve God both day and night; They sing their songs in endless light. Their anthems ring As they all sing With angels shining bright. (LSB 676:1)Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church, Lowell, IN.Audio Reflections Speaker: Pastor Harrison Goodman is the Executive Director of Mission and Theology for Higher Things.Step back in time to the late Reformation and learn about a divisive yet inspirational figure: Matthias Flacius Illyricus. His contributions to Lutheranism still echo in our teachings today, from the Magdeburg Confession to parts of the Lutheran Confessions. Learning about Flacius's life will help you understand more intricacies of the Reformation than ever before.

October 31, 2025Today's Reading: Matthew 11:12-19Daily Lectionary: Deuteronomy 32:28-52; Deuteronomy 33:1-29; Matthew 20:17-34“From the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven has suffered violence” (Matthew 11:12)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen. “Lord, I thank you that I am not like other church bodies: Roman Catholics, Eastern Orthodox, the Baptists…” Sound familiar? Just a few days ago, we heard Jesus tell us about the Pharisee and the Tax Collector. The sinful pride of the Pharisee clouded his thoughts on all things spiritual, and he ended up thinking he was doing a good job being righteous.It's easy for Lutherans to fall into that same trap around this time each year. In some strange twist of irony, as we talk about not focusing on our works, we champion our “saved by grace through faith” as if it's something we think and do. We end up turning belief into a work! And as if that wasn't bad enough, we convince ourselves that this work of belief is superior to our Roman friends' works adding to their faith.  Guess what?! BOTH of those ideas miss the mark. The kingdom of heaven suffers violence when you consider faith something you have done. The kingdom of heaven suffers violence when one thinks that her works are needed to join with faith to make one right with God. The kingdom of heaven suffers violence any time when one Christian takes pride that he is better than another.Having been warned against pride, and knowing that sometimes we are the ones inflicting violence, we also take comfort from Jesus today. The Comforter of Priceless Worth has brought you to repentance and delivered the unlimited forgiveness of the Lord to you. You are made right with God by His divine goodness and mercy, without any merit or worthiness in you.Our dear Savior does forewarn that the Church will indeed suffer. Christ Our Mighty Fortress does not promise to shield you from every persecution, hardship, or violence against His kingdom. He will not necessarily let you avoid the attacks. But He will be with you throughout them, always. Sometimes He will prevent or diffuse the violence. At other times, the comfort simply is that He endures it with us.Your dear Christ Himself is the kingdom of heaven in the flesh, and He suffered violence for you. Our Great Captain bared His arms, as He was stripped and nailed to the cross. Our prayer for deliverance from evil was answered as He endured the thorns, nails, and so much more, to pay the price for any violence that you have inflicted. And He supports and carries you through any violence that you endure until He returns for you, when we, with all His saints and martyrs, will raise a mighty chorus to His praise forevermore.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Amen, Lord Jesus, grant our prayer; Great Captain, now Thine arm make bare, Fight for us once again! So shall Thy saints and martyrs raise, A mighty chorus to Thy praise Forevermore. Amen. (LSB 666:4)Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church, Lowell, IN.Audio Reflections Speaker: Pastor Harrison Goodman is the Executive Director of Mission and Theology for Higher Things.Step back in time to the late Reformation and learn about a divisive yet inspirational figure: Matthias Flacius Illyricus. His contributions to Lutheranism still echo in our teachings today, from the Magdeburg Confession to parts of the Lutheran Confessions. Learning about Flacius's life will help you understand more intricacies of the Reformation than ever before.

Last sermon in our series in the Gospel of Matthew. Reading Matthew 25:31-46

October 23, 2025 Today's Reading: Matthew 13:54-58Daily Lectionary: Deuteronomy 24:10-25:10; Matthew 16:13-28“And coming to his hometown [Jesus] taught them in their synagogue, so that they were astonished, and said, ‘Where did this man get this wisdom and these mighty works? Is not this the carpenter's son? Is not his mother called Mary? And are not his brothers James and Joseph and Simon and Judas? And are not all his sisters with us? Where then did this man get all these things?'” (Matthew 13:54-58) In the Name + of Jesus. Amen. The fact of James reminds us of Jesus' humanity. Jesus has been going around healing the sick, restoring lame hands (Matthew 12:13), giving sight to the blind and voice to the mute (Matthew 11:27ff.), and more. Then Jesus goes into the Nazareth synagogue teaching the Gospel, astonishing people (Matthew 13:54).Who is this Jesus? How could anyone, seeing Him and hearing Him, have failed to ask that question? But while His divine works of power and teaching astonish people, the simple fact of James, along with Jesus' other brothers and sisters, brings home the comforting fact that Jesus is truly human: “Where did this man get this wisdom and these mighty works? Is not this the carpenter's son? Is not his mother called Mary? Are not his brothers James and Joseph and Simon and Judas? And are not all his sisters with us? Where did this man get all these things?” (Matthew 13:54ff.)Jesus is fully human, along with us. He didn't just drop out of the sky as some spirit wearing a human-flesh costume, but came as a baby from a mother (Matthew 13:55). He grew up humanly, learning to crawl, then perhaps how to use eating utensils, how to tie his shoes, just like us. Fully, completely like us in every way, except without sin (Hebrews 4:15). Then, human, along with us, but without sin, he took all sin upon himself (2 Corinthians 5:21). Where is your sin now? It's not with you. It's with Jesus. He who has no sin, took it (1 John 3:5). He carried it to the cross as the Lamb of God bearing the sin of the world (John 1:29).Now, in your life of repentance, your confession of your sin is not a good work that makes you better. Rather, it's your confession that Jesus Christ, true Man, is your Lord (Philippians 2:8-11) who has taken your sin upon himself and put it to death in his own Body on the cross. It is your confession that because Jesus Christ has been bodily raised up from the dead, you, too, belong to the resurrection of the body and life everlasting (Romans 6:9-11).In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.We give thanks for James, your brother, Who at Jerusalem Told of your love for Gentiles, in Your Name, welcoming them. Let us rejoice in salvation that we too, by Your grace, Extend Your invitation To all the human race. Amen. (Paraphrase from “By All Your Saints in Warfare,” LSB 518:27)Rev. Warren Graff, pastor of Grace Lutheran Church in Albuquerque, NM.Audio Reflections Speaker: Pastor Harrison Goodman is the Executive Director of Mission and Theology for Higher Things.Step back in time to the late Reformation and learn about a divisive yet inspirational figure: Matthias Flacius Illyricus. His contributions to Lutheranism still echo in our teachings today, from the Magdeburg Confession to parts of the Lutheran Confessions. Learning about Flacius's life will help you understand more intricacies of the Reformation than ever before.

October 22, 2025Today's Reading: Matthew 16:1-12Daily Lectionary: Deuteronomy 21:1-23; Deuteronomy 22:1-24:9; Matthew 16:1-12“[Jesus said,] ‘Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees.' Then they understood that he did not tell them to beware of the leaven of bread, but of the teaching of the Pharisees and Sadducees.” (Matthew 16:11-12)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen. Your warning: “Beware of the teaching of the Pharisees and the Sadducees!” Good. But what's that? The Pharisees and Sadducees are different from one another, far different. You will hear the Pharisees as you walk around Jerusalem and out into the towns and villages. To hear the Sadducees, you go to the big, impressive, resplendent Temple around which Jerusalem is built. The Pharisees. They teach the Law. Not the Law as the Ten Commandments by which God accuses the sinner, driving the sinner to the Gospel. Rather, they teach the law as commands, instructions, guidelines, tithing, and rules you must follow to live a clean life. By living this clean life, you can justify yourself, earning eternal life. The Sadducees. They're largely from the well-to-do priestly families. They teach a worthiness found in human pretension: the wealth or stature you gain and show off. So focused on worldly worthiness are they that they have little concern with matters of eternal life, even teaching there is no resurrection of the body, no Heaven, no eternal life, no angels (e.g., Matthew 22:23, Acts 23:8). So if there is no resurrection of the body and eternal life, what need is there to hear the justification of the sinner before God?Sadducees or Pharisees—you end up at the same place with each. Whether you hear the Sadducees teach that you need no justification since there is no Heaven anyway, or you hear the Pharisees teach that you need to be justified in order to avoid damnation but you gain this justification by your own works of law, in both cases you need no justification freely given the sinner by Jesus. Beware of the teaching of the Pharisees and Sadducees, Jesus says. That is, beware of any teaching that you don't need to be justified before holy God; beware of any teaching that you do need to be justified, but this justification is something you can accomplish by your own works, feelings, or intentions. Rather, turn to the one thing both the Pharisees and Sadducees together rejected: Jesus Christ crucified. Turn to the one word the Pharisees and Sadducees would never allow you to hear: the Gospel of the sinner freely forgiven and justified. In short, turn your back on the Pharisees and Sadducees; Jesus is your justification. In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Lord Jesus, turn me from any thought that there is no life in eternity and my life ends here on Earth; turn me from any thought that I can make myself worthy of eternal life by my own worthiness. By the preaching of your Gospel, turn me always to you, the Savior for every sinner unto eternal life. Amen.Rev. Warren Graff, pastor of Grace Lutheran Church in Albuquerque, NM.Audio Reflections Speaker: Pastor Harrison Goodman is the Executive Director of Mission and Theology for Higher Things.Step back in time to the late Reformation and learn about a divisive yet inspirational figure: Matthias Flacius Illyricus. His contributions to Lutheranism still echo in our teachings today, from the Magdeburg Confession to parts of the Lutheran Confessions. Learning about Flacius's life will help you understand more intricacies of the Reformation than ever before.

5th sermon in our series in the Gospel of Matthew. Reading Matthew 25:14-30

October 15, 2025Today's Reading: Matthew 13:1-23Daily Lectionary: Deuteronomy 13:1-18; Matthew 13:1-23“And he told them many things in parables, saying: “A sower went out to sow. And as he sowed, some seeds fell along the path, and the birds came and devoured them. Other seeds fell on rocky ground, where they did not have much soil, and immediately they sprang up, since they had no depth of soil, but when the sun rose they were scorched. And since they had no root, they withered away. Other seeds fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up and choked them. Other seeds fell on good soil and produced grain, some a hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty. He who has ears, let him hear.” (Matthew 13:3-9)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.This can feel like one of those “Sunday School” stories that you've heard a million times before. And maybe you have. Maybe when you were little, your Sunday School teacher taught you this, and she had you color a picture or maybe even gave you a little bag of seeds. Hopefully, those seeds did not end up like most of the seeds in the story. Nevertheless, this parable has great significance for our lives as Christians. The sower (Christ) sows the word of God. If you've ever seen the work of a sower, especially as it is traditionally done, the sower's sowing is… very haphazard. He takes a bag of seeds, slings them by his side, then takes a handful of them and just… chucks them as he walks. The seeds get everywhere, exactly like Jesus says. Far contrast to the cornfield in front of my house, where the seed machine probably has a count of every kernel they put in the ground. I like Jesus's way better. But these seeds do not all meet the same fate. That's part of business when the seeds are evenly covering everything. Some of them have no soil to grow in, so they become food. Some whither and die because of persecution. But others, others absolutely blossom. They are kept in growth by the care and tending of God. They are kept alive by the giver of growth. Your faith is kept alive by the giver of faith. You have ears to hear, and you have heard. And the word does not return void! The sower waters your faith with the preaching of the Gospel, and feeds it by giving you His own Body and Blood. Thanks be to God.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.The sower sows; his reckless love Scatters abroad the goodly seed, Intent alone that all may have The wholesome loaves that all men need. Though some be snatched and some be scorched And some be choked and matted flat, The sower sows; his heart cries out, “Oh, what of that, and what of that?” Of all his scattered plenteousness One-fourth waves ripe on hill and flat, And bears a harvest hundredfold: “Ah, what of that, Lord, what of that!” (LSB 586:3-5)Rev. Jonathan Lackey, Pastor of Grace Lutheran Church, Vine Grove, KY.Audio Reflections Speaker: Pastor Jonathan Lackey is the pastor at Grace Lutheran Church, Vine Grove, KY.Step back in time to the late Reformation and learn about a divisive yet inspirational figure: Matthias Flacius Illyricus. His contributions to Lutheranism still echo in our teachings today, from the Magdeburg Confession to parts of the Lutheran Confessions. Learning about Flacius's life will help you understand more intricacies of the Reformation than ever before.

4th sermon our series in the Gospel of Matthew.. Reading: Matthew 25:1-13

October 10, 2025Today's Reading: Matthew 11:1-19Daily Lectionary: Deuteronomy 9:1-22; Matthew 11:1-19“Truly, I say to you, among those born of women there has arisen no one greater than John the Baptist. Yet the one who is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he. From the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven has suffered violence, and the violent take it by force. For all the Prophets and the Law prophesied until John, and if you are willing to accept it, he is Elijah who is to come. He who has ears to hear, let him hear.” (Matthew 11:11-15)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.I love reading about John the Baptist. John the Baptist is so delightfully strange that it really catches my eye each time, no matter how many times I have read this section of St. Matthew's gospel. Here is a man who has lived basically all his adult life on the fringes of society. He eats bugs, he dresses in a camel pelt (remember, delightfully weird), and he just blows up the Pharisees. What a job! Best of all, Jesus says that none born of woman is greater than John the Baptist!Hold up, what? Now that always confuses me to no end. What does that mean? Is Jesus just hyping up his friend and cousin, John the Baptist? Could be, but the operative thing (and what matters most for you, beloved in the Lord) is the next sentence. “Yet the one who is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.” (v. 11) That means me, that means you, that means everyone! We are greater than John the Baptist, not because John is bad in any way, but because Jesus is the greatest, and he gives that greatness to us in his death and resurrection! This is even better news because of what comes right after. The Kingdom of heaven has suffered violence and will continue to until Christ returns. You may never suffer one iota for Christ, or you may lose your life, probably somewhere in between. But regardless, you cannot be taken out of the kingdom of heaven because you were given the ears to hear, and you have heard.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.When all the world was cursed By Moses' condemnation, Saint John the Baptist came With words of consolation. With true forerunner's zeal The greater One he named, And Him, as yet unknown, As Savior he proclaimed. (LSB 346:1)Rev. Jonathan Lackey, Pastor of Grace Lutheran Church, Vine Grove, KY.Audio Reflections Speaker: Pastor Jonathan Lackey is the pastor at Grace Lutheran Church, Vine Grove, KY.Step back in time to the late Reformation and learn about a divisive yet inspirational figure: Matthias Flacius Illyricus. His contributions to Lutheranism still echo in our teachings today, from the Magdeburg Confession to parts of the Lutheran Confessions. Learning about Flacius's life will help you understand more intricacies of the Reformation than ever before.

3rd sermon our series in the Gospel of Matthew. Reading: Matthew 24:36-51

October 3, 2025 Today's Reading: Matthew 7:13-29Daily Lectionary: Deuteronomy 4:1-20; Matthew 7:13-29 “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. You will recognize them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? So, every healthy tree bears good fruit, but the diseased tree bears bad fruit. A healthy tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a diseased tree bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Thus you will recognize them by their fruits.” (Matthew 7:15-20) In the Name + of Jesus. Amen. Jesus spent a fair amount of time warning us about false prophets. These ravenous wolves, who ought to be festooned with millstone necklaces and cast into the sea, will likely not see their wages on this side of the resurrection. The fruits are the key here. Unlike our fruits or good works among our neighbors, the false teachers' fruits are borne in where their teaching leads. Sometimes it's coarse, like teaching that God did not create the heavens and the Earth, or that Jesus didn't live, die, and rise again in His flesh for your salvation from sin. Sometimes the false teaching is more subtle, like a historical Jesus serving as an example of righteous living rather than a propitiation for sin. Or, a Jesus whose all-encompassing love doesn't forgive sins, but simply ignores and embraces them. In each case, the false teacher leads us away from the truth, the center of the Christian faith. All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. And, Jesus, the sinless, spotless Lamb of God was counted with us sinners in our place to bear our sin and be our savior. He died and rose again to forgive us and free us from the bonds of sin. The false teacher deliberately or accidentally seeks to lead us away from that central truth into something else, which seems good. Don't fall for that malarkey. You know the scriptures and the truth better than you may even realize. You have the Word of God and faithful teachers to guide you. The promise here is that our Lord will set things right on the Last Day. Those false teachers, who have persisted in their wickedness, will receive their reward—eternal fire. He will preserve you from the troubles they brought into your ears forever. In Christ, you will only know His word and His salvation. In the Name + of Jesus. Amen. Lord, keep us steadfast in Your Word; curb those who by deceit or sword would wrest the kingdom from Your Son and bring to naught all He has done. (LSB 655:1)Rev. Jason Kaspar, pastor of Mount Calvary Lutheran Church, La Grange, Texas.Audio Reflections Speaker: Pastor Jonathan Lackey is the pastor at Grace Lutheran Church, Vine Grove, KY.Join author R. Reed Lessing helps with this chapter-by-chapter exploration of the Book of Numbers in Hope in the Wilderness. With helpful maps, diagrams, and connections to the rest of the Bible, you'll be able to understand the beauty of Numbers.

Alfie and Theo's Baptism Service sermon. Reading: Matthew 28:16-20

Thank you to Amy, Ed, Rhonda, Don, and everybody else involved in the service. Happy birthday this week to Christina. Songs from this service: Come, Let Us All Unite to Sing - https://youtu.be/4mInRCqnsUs -- The Steadfast Love Of The Lord - https://youtu.be/KJYf9KnxwbQ -- Because He Lives - https://youtu.be/fXRZZi-dlN8?t=6 -- I'll Be A Friend To Jesus - https://youtu.be/gWQqATWrqyc -- Love Divine - https://youtu.be/Cwi_-rUDg0Q -- Rise With The Sun - https://youtu.be/bY1ph_PYMtg Scriptures from this service: Reading - Matthew 19:13-15. Communion - Matthew 18:3-4 (GNT); 18:4; 18:3; 5:14-16; Galatians 2:20 (GNT); Philippians 4:13 (NKJV). Sermon - 1 John 4:8; John 15:10-11 (NKJV); 16:20 (NKJV); Matthew 24:6; John 14:27; Romans 12:18 (NKJV); Colossians 3:15; Hebrews 13:5; Proverbs 15:1; James 3:17-18 (NKJV); Matthew 11:29; 5:5 (NKJV); Galatians 5:22-23. Closing - Proverbs 17:28; Galatians 5:22-23. [accordion] [accordion-item title="NIV Copyright" state=closed]Scripture quotations marked (NIV) taken from The Holy Bible, New International Version© NIV© Copyright © 1973 1978 1984 2011 by Biblica, Inc. TM Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.[/accordion-item] [accordion-item title="NKJV Copyright" state=closed]Scriptures marked NKJV taken from the New King James Version©. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.[/accordion-item] [accordion-item title="Good News Translation Copyright" state="closed"]Scriptures marked NKJV taken from the New King James Version©. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.[/accordion-item][/accordion]

Reading: Matthew 9:35-38Speaker: Tommy Pratt The post The Harvest is Ready first appeared on Minehead Baptist Church.

September 26, 2025Today's Reading: Matthew 4:1-11Daily Lectionary: Malachi 2:1-3:5; Matthew 4:1-11“Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil” (Matthew 4:1)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.The Spirit that descended upon Jesus at his Baptism now leads him into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. Jesus, the “anointed one,” faces the first test of his office as Savior of the world. But notice what temptations are thrown his way! He is tempted to 1) turn stones into bread, 2) test God's will, and 3) deny God's kingdom. Sound similar? The Lord's Prayer takes its source from Jesus' inner life. The Gospel of Luke records that Jesus prayed at his Baptism (Luke 3:21). In his baptism, he prays according to God's name (1st Petition), and in his temptation, he applies God's kingdom (2nd Petition) and will (3rd Petition) to our daily life (4th Petition). After we are baptized, we can expect temptations to come. When we fast or forsake the pleasures of this world, the devil will tempt us to serve our fleshly lusts. When we place ourselves under God's will, the devil will tempt us to question God's provision. When God gathers us into his lowly kingdom, the devil will tempt us with the fame and fortune of this world's kingdoms. But in Christ, we will rise victorious over the devil. In Christ's Spirit, we will resist the temptations of the flesh. We do not have a High Priest who is unable to sympathize with our weakness, but one in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. We have a Savior who knew no sin but was made to be sin for us, that we might be righteous in him. Christ proceeds from his baptism and temptation to his ministry. He begins to preach, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand” as he offers the assurance of the forgiveness of sins (5th Petition), protects his people from temptations (6th Petition), and delivers them from evil diseases and afflictions (7th Petition). Already in our Lord's life, his prayer is taking shape. As the Lord's Prayer has its root in his life, it now has its root in ours. The Lord's Prayer forms us into Christ's baptism and temptation, and it prepares us for lives of service in his name and kingdom, and according to his will. In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Mark how the Lamb of God's self-off'ring Our human sinfulness takes on In the birthwaters of the Jordan As Jesus is baptized by John. Hear how the voice from heaven thunders, ‘Lo, this is My beloved Son.' See how in dovelike form the Spirit Descends on God's Anointed One. From this assurance of God's favor Jesus goes to the wilderness, There to endure a time of testing That readied Him to teach and bless. So we, by water and the Spirit Baptized into Christ's ministry, Are often led to paths of service Through mazes of adversity. (LSB 600:1, 2) Rev. David Woelmer, pastor of Grace Lutheran Church, Smithville, Texas.Audio Reflections Speaker: Pastor Jonathan Lackey is the pastor at Grace Lutheran Church, Vine Grove, KY.Join author R. Reed Lessing helps with this chapter-by-chapter exploration of the Book of Numbers in Hope in the Wilderness. With helpful maps, diagrams, and connections to the rest of the Bible, you'll be able to understand the beauty of Numbers.

Join CJ Muston from First Christian Church in this inspiring youth sermon from the "Worship Uncoiled" series. Aimed at teenagers entering middle school, high school, and college, this Sunday evening message explores building a firm faith foundation based on Jesus' teachings in Matthew 7:24-27. Learn why your faith must become your own—not just what parents or influencers say—and how to hear Jesus' words directly while putting them into practice for a life that withstands storms.Discover practical steps: Question "Did Jesus really say that?" when hearing advice from podcasts, social media, or church. Use real-life analogies like no-bake cookies to see how trying Jesus' way leads to stronger belief. Perfect for Christian youth seeking teen faith growth, biblical foundation, and spiritual development.Timestamps:0:00 - Opening and Prayer1:15 - Skit Guys Story Continuation2:35 - Recap: Building Faith Series4:21 - Reading Matthew 7:24-275:06 - Importance of Firm Foundations6:22 - How to Build: Hear Jesus' Words8:19 - Question: Did Jesus Really Say That?11:46 - Put Jesus' Words into Practice13:20 - Cookie Analogy: Trying Jesus' Way16:16 - Facing Storms with Strong Faith17:08 - Weekly Challenge and Closing Prayer18:28 - Small Group InstructionsSubscribe for more youth sermons, teen Bible studies, and Christian inspiration. What storms are you facing? Share in the comments! #YouthSermon #BuildingFaith #JesusFoundation #TeenFaith #Matthew7 #ChristianYouth #WorshipUncoiled

September 21, 2025Today's Reading: Matthew 9:9-13Daily Lectionary: Nehemiah 5:1-16; 6:1-9, 15-16; 1 Timothy 4:1-16“As Jesus passed on from there, he saw a man called Matthew sitting at the tax booth, and he said to him, ‘Follow me.' And he rose and followed him” (Matthew 9:9)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.If you have seen the popular TV Series, “The Chosen,” then you know that the producers use artistic license when they portray Matthew as quirky, uptight, anxious, and obsessed with numbers. While his character adds fun humor to the series, it also helps demonstrate that the Twelve disciples were men, just like we are, with all their foibles and failures, their quirks and quibbles. However, we would miss the point if we stopped there. God's Word teaches us to look further into the lives of these men. It reveals the spiritual kingdom that they, and we, have been called into! And this is where Matthew plays such a significant role in the revelation of God's kingdom. His name, “Matthew,” gives it away. He is “a gift” to the kingdom, “a gift” to Christ's Church. One thing to notice about our reading from Matthew 9 is that Matthew's house becomes the location of Christ's kingdom! It is a place of hospitality for Christ, for other tax collectors, and for other sinners. Jesus has come not to call the righteous, but sinners. Matthew is a sinner, and he is the one whom Jesus calls. So it is that this sinner becomes a gift, this sinner's house becomes God's house, and this sinner's life is used by God for more gift-giving. What a “gift” Matthew is to us! He was called not only to follow Jesus but to write the Holy Gospel for the upbuilding of Christ's Church. His Gospel is truly the gift that keeps on giving, and through him, Christ still speaks his message of forgiveness for sinners. Through Matthew, Christ still calls men to “Follow me,” and Christ still reclines at table, though now in the houses in which we gather! The holy wounds of our Physician are the balm that heals our wounded heart, it is the peace that flows from sin forgiven, it is the joy that lifts our soul to heaven, and his Body and Blood give us the faith and hope to walk with God, so that we, with Matthew and all the saints who have gone before us, might be a “gift” to others. In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.O Son of God, our blessed Savior Jesus Christ, You called Matthew the tax collector to be an apostle and evangelist. Through his faithful and inspired witness, grant that we also may follow You, leaving behind all covetous desires and love of riches; for You live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Rev. David Woelmer, pastor of Grace Lutheran Church, Smithville, Texas.Audio Reflections Speaker: Pastor Jonathan Lackey is the pastor at Grace Lutheran Church, Vine Grove, KY.Join author R. Reed Lessing helps with this chapter-by-chapter exploration of the Book of Numbers in Hope in the Wilderness. With helpful maps, diagrams, and connections to the rest of the Bible, you'll be able to understand the beauty of Numbers.

Thank you to Don, Dave, and everybody else involved in the service. Happy birthday this week to Ernie and to Lynn. Songs from this service: We Shall Assemble - https://youtu.be/qapKATi5vhk?t=4 -- I Love You Lord - https://youtu.be/Bxi4PI0Bf7g -- Agnus Dei - https://youtu.be/HRHJjYTeaU8 -- King Of Kings - https://youtu.be/IVumVrkbq4s -- Bible Project - Ahavah - https://youtu.be/HV_LUs2lnIQ -- How Sweet, How Heavenly - https://youtu.be/6rNnNE7fbb0 Scriptures from this service - Welcome - Psalm 89:5-18 (EEB). Reading - Matthew 22:37-40. Communion - Hebrews 4:14; Revelation 1:8; Matthew 1:23; Acts 10:36; John 8:58; Ephesians 2:20; Colossians 1:15; 1:18; Mark 1:24; Acts 10:42; Revelation 17:14; John 8:12; Isaiah 9:6; Luke 9:58; John 1:14; 1 John 1:1; Hebrews 12:2 (ERV); John 6:35; Romans 11:36; John 10:11; Hebrews 4:14; 1 Timothy 2:5; 1 Corinthians 10:4; John 15:1; John 14:6; 11:25. Sermon - Galatians 5:22-23; Psalm 100:5; 109:21; 118:1; 118:4; 1 Corinthians 13:1; 13:2; 13:4-5; 13:6-8; Matthew 3:17; Galatians 5:6; Ephesians 3:14-19; Psalm 25:4-6; 1 John 3:1; James 1:12; 1:17-18; Deuteronomy 10:12; Galatians 5:22-23. [accordion] [accordion-item title="NIV Copyright" state=closed]Scripture quotations marked (NIV) taken from The Holy Bible, New International Version© NIV© Copyright © 1973 1978 1984 2011 by Biblica, Inc. TM Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.[/accordion-item][accordion-item title="ERV Copyright"]Scripture quotations marked ERV taken from the Holy Bible: Easy-to-Read Version (ERV), International Edition © 2013, 2016 by Bible League International and used by permission. https://www.bibleleague.org [/accordion-item][accordion-item title="EEB Copyright"]Scripture quotations marked EEB are from the EasyEnglish Bible Copyright © MissionAssist 2018, 2024 – UK Charitable Incorporated Organisation 1162807. Used by permission. All rights reserved.[/accordion-item][/accordion]

2nd sermon in our current series in Matthew. Reading Matthew 24:1-35

Discover why the first Beatitude is the foundation of the blessed life. In this powerful sermon on Matthew 5:1-12, we explore what it truly means to be "poor in spirit" and how admitting our need for God transforms everything. Key Points Covered: The real meaning of being "poor in spirit" Why trying to play God always leads to failure How humility opens the door to God's blessing Practical steps to live the blessed life ⏱️Timecodes 00:00 – Opening Prayer 00:55 – When Life Feels Stuck 03:30 – The Struggle of Persistent Sin 06:00 – Playing God: Our Biggest Temptation 07:45 – The Cure: The Beatitudes 08:10 – Reading Matthew 5:1-12 (NEB) 10:00 – Blessed are Those Who Know Their Need of God 13:00 – What It Means to be Poor in Spirit 18:20 – Learning Humility and Dependence 22:00 – Paul's Testimony in Romans 7 25:00 – Receiving God's Grace, Not Relying on Willpower 30:40 – Responding to God's Call 33:15 – Closing Prayer Join us for this life-changing message that will shift your perspective from self-reliance to God-dependence. #Beatitudes #BlessedLife #ChristianSermon #SalvationArmy #BibleStudy #SpiritualGrowth #Humility #KingdomOfHeaven #DailyDevotional #ChristianMotivation #SermonOnTheMount #Matthew5 #PoorInSpirit #ChristianFaith #GodsGrace The use of songs/music/videos in this broadcast is covered by the following licences: CCLI Church Copyright Licence No. 135015 CCLI Music Reproduction Licence No. 637726 CCLI Church Video Licence No. 1420420 CCLI PPL Church Licence No. 1708173 CCLI PRS for Music Church Licence No. 1420413 CCLI Streaming Licence No. 21427058

Discover why the first Beatitude is the foundation of the blessed life. In this powerful sermon on Matthew 5:1-12, we explore what it truly means to be "poor in spirit" and how admitting our need for God transforms everything.Key Points Covered:* The real meaning of being "poor in spirit"* Why trying to play God always leads to failure* How humility opens the door to God's blessing* Practical steps to live the blessed life⏱️Timecodes00:00 – Opening Prayer00:55 – When Life Feels Stuck03:30 – The Struggle of Persistent Sin06:00 – Playing God: Our Biggest Temptation07:45 – The Cure: The Beatitudes08:10 – Reading Matthew 5:1-12 (NEB)10:00 – Blessed are Those Who Know Their Need of God13:00 – What It Means to be Poor in Spirit18:20 – Learning Humility and Dependence22:00 – Paul's Testimony in Romans 725:00 – Receiving God's Grace, Not Relying on Willpower30:40 – Responding to God's Call33:15 – Closing PrayerJoin us for this life-changing message that will shift your perspective from self-reliance to God-dependence.#Beatitudes #BlessedLife #ChristianSermon #SalvationArmy #BibleStudy #SpiritualGrowth #Humility #KingdomOfHeaven #DailyDevotional #ChristianMotivation #SermonOnTheMount #Matthew5 #PoorInSpirit #ChristianFaith #GodsGraceThe use of songs/music/videos in this broadcast is covered by the following licences:CCLI Church Copyright Licence No. 135015CCLI Music Reproduction Licence No. 637726CCLI Church Video Licence No. 1420420CCLI PPL Church Licence No. 1708173CCLI PRS for Music Church Licence No. 1420413CCLI Streaming Licence No. 21427058 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit battlereadysermons.com

Discover why the first Beatitude is the foundation of the blessed life. In this powerful sermon on Matthew 5:1-12, we explore what it truly means to be "poor in spirit" and how admitting our need for God transforms everything.Key Points Covered:* The real meaning of being "poor in spirit"* Why trying to play God always leads to failure* How humility opens the door to God's blessing* Practical steps to live the blessed life⏱️Timecodes00:00 – Opening Prayer00:55 – When Life Feels Stuck03:30 – The Struggle of Persistent Sin06:00 – Playing God: Our Biggest Temptation07:45 – The Cure: The Beatitudes08:10 – Reading Matthew 5:1-12 (NEB)10:00 – Blessed are Those Who Know Their Need of God13:00 – What It Means to be Poor in Spirit18:20 – Learning Humility and Dependence22:00 – Paul's Testimony in Romans 725:00 – Receiving God's Grace, Not Relying on Willpower30:40 – Responding to God's Call33:15 – Closing PrayerJoin us for this life-changing message that will shift your perspective from self-reliance to God-dependence.#Beatitudes #BlessedLife #ChristianSermon #SalvationArmy #BibleStudy #SpiritualGrowth #Humility #KingdomOfHeaven #DailyDevotional #ChristianMotivation #SermonOnTheMount #Matthew5 #PoorInSpirit #ChristianFaith #GodsGraceThe use of songs/music/videos in this broadcast is covered by the following licences:CCLI Church Copyright Licence No. 135015CCLI Music Reproduction Licence No. 637726CCLI Church Video Licence No. 1420420CCLI PPL Church Licence No. 1708173CCLI PRS for Music Church Licence No. 1420413CCLI Streaming Licence No. 21427058 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit battlereadysermons.com

Discover why the first Beatitude is the foundation of the blessed life. In this powerful sermon on Matthew 5:1-12, we explore what it truly means to be "poor in spirit" and how admitting our need for God transforms everything. Key Points Covered: The real meaning of being "poor in spirit" Why trying to play God always leads to failure How humility opens the door to God's blessing Practical steps to live the blessed life ⏱️Timecodes 00:00 – Opening Prayer 00:55 – When Life Feels Stuck 03:30 – The Struggle of Persistent Sin 06:00 – Playing God: Our Biggest Temptation 07:45 – The Cure: The Beatitudes 08:10 – Reading Matthew 5:1-12 (NEB) 10:00 – Blessed are Those Who Know Their Need of God 13:00 – What It Means to be Poor in Spirit 18:20 – Learning Humility and Dependence 22:00 – Paul's Testimony in Romans 7 25:00 – Receiving God's Grace, Not Relying on Willpower 30:40 – Responding to God's Call 33:15 – Closing Prayer Join us for this life-changing message that will shift your perspective from self-reliance to God-dependence. #Beatitudes #BlessedLife #ChristianSermon #SalvationArmy #BibleStudy #SpiritualGrowth #Humility #KingdomOfHeaven #DailyDevotional #ChristianMotivation #SermonOnTheMount #Matthew5 #PoorInSpirit #ChristianFaith #GodsGrace The use of songs/music/videos in this broadcast is covered by the following licences: CCLI Church Copyright Licence No. 135015 CCLI Music Reproduction Licence No. 637726 CCLI Church Video Licence No. 1420420 CCLI PPL Church Licence No. 1708173 CCLI PRS for Music Church Licence No. 1420413 CCLI Streaming Licence No. 21427058

Reading - Matthew 11, 25-30, 07-09-25 by St. John's Church, Southbourne

First sermon in our current series in Matthew. Reading: Matthew 23: 37 - 24:14

Jesus didn't just speak to situations—He spoke to the eternal issues within us. In today's podcast episode, we see how the red words expose the thief in us, the parts of us that take, hide, or compromise. But the remedy isn't more rules—it's giving. It's identity. It's simplicity. Just like the woman with the oil or Zacchaeus the tax collector, the way forward is always rooted in returning to who we truly are.Today's Reading: Matthew 1-3 Get full access to REDIN30 at redin30.substack.com/subscribe

And Jesus came and said to them, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me." - Matthew 28:18

So when Pilate saw that he was gaining nothing, but rather that a riot was beginning, he took water and washed his hands before the crowd, saying, "I am innocent of this man's blood; see to it yourselves." - Matthew 27:24

June 29, 2025 Today's Reading: Matthew 16:13-19Daily Lectionary: Joshua 4:1-24; Acts 9:23-43“Simon Peter replied, ‘You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.'” (Matthew 16:16)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.What's the point of Peter's confession? He gets it right. Jesus is not just a reincarnated Moses or Elijah. He's not just another religious figure with good ideas on how to be kind to one another. Jesus asks His disciples, “Who am I?” not to trap them but to reveal to them who He is. Peter confesses that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the Living God, the one all of Scripture points to as the one who will save and deliver God's people. There's more to it than that, though, more to Peter's confession than even Peter realizes.This confession is one that is seen with eyes of faith. It's the confession that the church, the baptized community, makes every Sunday in the Creed. It is your and my confession when we remember our baptisms: that we are united to Jesus, the Christ, the Son of the Living God who saved us from our sins. Peter is not handed the keys to the “pope mobile” here to guide the church in confessing. No, friends, this is the beginning of Peter's confession—or rather, his struggle against his own flesh to continue to confess boldly in season and out of season.And then there's Paul. Paul is the persecutor turned pastor to the Gentiles, whose ministry is defined by suffering as Jesus suffered, for the sake of the Gospel and being content in all things. Paul's confession was all things to all people. Not sacrificing the substance or truth, but truly embodying that Christ Jesus, the Son of the Living God, came into the world to save sinners “of whom I am the foremost” (1 Timothy 1:15).Confession of who Jesus is matters. He's not Moses or Elijah or John the Baptist. He is the Christ who took on our flesh and came into the world. The Son of the Living God to save you that this might be revealed to all who hear His Word and open their eyes of faith as Peter's and Paul's were. When you stand and confess the Creed, you see those witnesses around you but know that there's a whole host of witnesses saying it who have gone before you. In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Merciful and eternal God, Your holy apostles Peter and Paul received grace and strength to lay down their lives for the sake of your Son. Strengthen us by your Holy Spirit that we may confess Your truth and at all times be ready to lay down our lives for the one who laid down His life for us, even Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.- Justin Chester is a seminary student at Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, IN.Audio Reflections Speaker: Pastor Jonathan Lackey is the pastor at Grace Lutheran Church, Vine Grove, KY.In Clarifying the Great Commission, Rev. Daniel Christian Voth identifies common omissions from our collective understanding of Jesus' farewell discourse—omissions that turn Christ's promises of forgiveness, life, and salvation into a legalistic command. Come and discover a richer understanding of The Great Commission.

Reading: Matthew 6:1-18, Heidelberg Catechism Lord's Day 45 1. Necessary 2. Proper 3. Continual

His master said to him, "Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master." - Matthew 25:21

"Therefore you also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect." - Matthew 24:44

Then he said to them, "Therefore render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's." - Matthew 22:21

He said to them, "It is written, 'My house shall be called a house of prayer,' but you make it a den of robbers." - Matthew 21:13

"But whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a great millstone fastened around his neck and to be drowned in the depth of the sea." - Matthew 18:6

But Jesus said, "They need not go away; you give them something to eat." - Matthew 14:16

"The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up. Then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field." - Matthew 13:44

"You brood of vipers! How can you speak good, when you are evil? For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. The good person out of his good treasure brings forth good, and the evil person out of his evil treasure brings forth evil. I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak, for by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned." - Matthew 12:34-37

"Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it." - Matthew 10:39

When he entered the house, the blind men came to him, and Jesus said to them, "Do you believe that I am able to do this?" They said to him, "Yes, Lord." - Matthew 9:28

Seeing the crowds, he went up on the mountain, and when he sat down, his disciples came to him. And he opened his mouth and taught them. - Matthew 5:1-2

But he answered, "It is written, 'Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.'" - Matthew 4:4

"Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel" (which means, God with us). - Matthew 1:23

George shares his powerful journey from addiction to grace, demonstrating how the gospel's true message breaks cycles of sin and religious performance when properly understood.• George was a 24-year-old alcoholic and porn addict when he first encountered God in 2007• Initial freedom through salvation gave way to legalistic Christianity that created deeper bondage• Five years of religious performance led to suicidal thoughts despite being heavily involved in church• The turning point came when God spoke to him during a suicide attempt in his garage• Understanding his value and identity in Christ broke the cycle of guilt and condemnation• Reading Matthew 6 with fresh eyes revealed how God saw his worth beyond his performance• Freedom came not through fighting temptation harder but through embracing his true identity• Religious legalism creates a mindset that makes freedom impossible by focusing on sin management• True transformation occurs when believers see themselves as already free rather than constantly fighting sin

In this bible study, we cover Matthew 5.1-12 looking at the Beatitudes. The Beatitudes are a list of 8 statements from Jesus, each with a promise. “Blessed” - happy, joyful, on the right path- is the person who follows each of Jesus' calls. This includes a call to be poor in spirit, to mourn our sinful state, to be meek, to thirst for righteousness, to show mercy, to be pure of heart, to be a peacemaker, and to rejoice in persecution.The Beatitudes are a progressive ladder, with each separate step being critical to understand before attempting the next step. Some of the steps are easier for some than others, and that's ok, but we need to take these one at a time, and do our best to follow Jesus' call. Keeping in mind that on our own, without the help of the Holy Spirit, we are not capable of any of them. Outline:00:24 - Introduction to Beatitudes and the Sermon on the Mount02:10 - What is sanctification? 02:58 - Prayer03:43 - Reading Matthew 5.1-1204:54 - What are the Beatitudes?The name “Beatitude” comes from the LATIN: BEATUS - bā-ˈä-təs (“Bay a tues”) The Greek is μακάριος makarios mak-ar'-ee-osEnglish - “Blessed,” “Bless-ed” or “happy” 1 Peter 1.8Think of the Beatitudes as a road map, better yet, think of it as a ladder. A step ladder of the sanctification process. 07:53 - Matthew 5.3 - Blessed are the POOR IN SPIRIT 08:05 - What does it mean to be poor in spirit?STEP 1 - Be humble. Realize you are nothing without God. John 15.5Php 2.3-4Read Luke 18.9-14.Pro 16.1813:51 - Matthew 5.4 - Blessed are THOSE WHO MOURN14:06 - What does it mean to mourn in the Bible?Gen 23.2 - Abraham mourned the loss of his wife SarahRom 3.23Rom 6.23READ Rom 7.24-25 - 8:1-2Prov. 28:13STEP 2 - Mourn your sin.20:01 - Matthew 5.5 - BLESSED ARE THE MEEK20:14 - what does it mean to be meek? What is meekness?Meekness is not weaknessMeekness is power under controlMatt 11:28-30READ John 18:1-6. Jesus gives us an example of meekness under control in the Garden of Gethsemane.STEP 3 - Be meek, Power under control.Matthew 5.6 - BLESSED ARE THOSE WHO THIRST FOR RIGHTEOUSNESS. 25:55 - What is Righteousness? How is Righteousness defined in the Bible?Isa 64.6Rom 3.22Titus 3.4-7God is the ultimate source of all righteousness. So to hunger and thirst for Righteousness is to hunger and thirst for people to have a right relationship with their creator. STEP 4 - Have a hunger to see people with a right relationship with God. Hunger for people to be saved. 32:27 - Matthew 5.7. BLESSED ARE THE MERCIFUL 32:32 - What does it mean to be merciful? What is Mercy? What is the difference between Grace and Mercy?What does it look like to be Merciful? Forgiving someone even when they do not deserve to be forgiven. Forgive someone even if they don't even seek your forgiveness.Mat 6.14-15Rom 12.18STEP 5 - Show mercy. Let go and let God!37:56 - Matthew 5.8. BLESSED ARE THE PURE IN HEART.What does the world say about your heart, and what does the Bible say?Jer 17.9Article: https://www.gotquestions.org/pure-in-heart.htmlPsalm 51:10, STEP 6 - Pray and plead for the Lord to create a pure heart in you.43:19 - Matthew 5.9 - BLESSED ARE THE PEACEMAKERS 43:26 - What is a peacemaker?What is peace? שָׁלוֹם šālômPro 18.21Isa 9.6Rom 10.17STEP 7 - be a peacemaker - not a mayhem manifestor48:43 - BLESSED ARE THE PERSECUTED2 tim 3.12Luke 6.22https://www.christianity.com/church/church-history/timeline/1-300/whatever-happened-to-the-twelve-apostles-11629558.htmlJohn 16.33Support Iron Sheep Ministries: https://Ironsheep.org/donateListen to the podcast: https://anchor.fm/ironsheepContact Dave & the ISM team: info@ironsheep.orgBe notified of each new teaching, join the email list: http://eepurl.com/g-2zAD

The Brandons are back! This season we are going through Matthew's Gospel again – this time, reading it under American authoritarianism, as literature written under authoritarianism, and written against authoritarianism. Get reintroduced to a Jesus whose social imagination was relentlessly critical of the attachments, avarice, and agendas of authoritarianism.This season we're going to do it a little different: each episode will have a guest co-host to join us in exploring the text....Read LIT online: https://www.litbible.net/matthew-introMore about the Liberation & Inclusion Translation: https://www.litbible.net/translation-commitmentsSupport LIT & FIT: https://donorbox.org/found-in-translation-1...Opportunity Walks by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/

Lead Pastor Josh Carstensen continues our Sermon on the Mount series. What if everything you thought about rules, sacrifice, and righteousness was about to be radically redefined? In this part of His sermon, Jesus delivers a powerful and pivotal message - a moment of fulfillment, challenge, and transformation - turning 1,500 years of tradition into a call for something deeper, harder, and far more beautiful. It's a statement that surprised everyone when He said it and one that we still grapple with today. Jesus freed us from the Old Testament law and gave us something much harder. Are you ready to wrestle with what it means to truly follow Him? Thank you for listening to this message from Northwest Hills Community Church in Corvallis, Oregon, on January 19, 2025, at 9:30am. You can find us online at nwhills.com. Key Moments 00:00 Welcome 01:04 Message: Radically Redefining Rules 02:05 A Prayer for Our Nation 04:26 Reading Matthew 5:17-20 11:05 The Heart Behind the Laws 17:48 Jesus Fulfills the Law 27:35 The Importance of the Old Testament 31:39 Reflecting on Our Motivations

Christmas x Matthew 1-2Your daily crossover of faith and fandom! Experience daily Biblical encouragement from nerdy Christian podcasters, bloggers and content creators. Join the Nerd of Godcast community at www.NOGSquad.com