Podcasts about Sadducees

Church Birth Pains G'day and welcome to Partake! We are now on day 27 of our series "Glimpses", looking at the story of the Bible in 30 days - from the time of creation through to the time of the fullness of redemption! The birth of the church has come! The Holy Spirit has come to live within believers in Jesus Christ as the Messiah as part of the fulfilment of the New Covenant we have looked at. The early church was dynamic and seen to be exercising the authority of Jesus Christ. But a couple of problems arise, just as Jesus warned about, which could have caused the early church to die young. 1. Prejudice! Let's read Acts 6v1 "But as the believers rapidly multiplied, there were rumblings of discontent. The Greek-speaking believers complained about the Hebrew-speaking believers, saying that their widows were being discriminated against in the daily distribution of food." So there is good news and bad news! Good news - they were growing! Bad news - but this had caused a problem as some widows were not being cared for! Hebraic Jews had always lived in the then nation of Israel, spoke mainly Aramaic and some Hebraic. They would have been well used to life in a Jewish society, the Temple and avoiding those who were not Jews: the Gentiles. Grecian or Hellenistic Jews were part of the Jewish Diaspora, born elsewhere within the known world and had returned to Jerusalem. These mainly spoke Greek, and were well used to working with Gentiles. Widows were and are important to God, God loves justice and mercy. The Apostles would have known about God caring for the widows and in Jesus teaching about justice for the poor and the oppressed. We know this because earlier in Acts 2 and 4, people were selling and sharing possessions and ensuring that people within the Christian community were being looked after and cared for. Somehow, unintentional or not, this group of widows were missing out. How was this crisis solved? The Solution The solution can be seen in Acts 6v2-4 So the Twelve called a meeting of all the believers. They said, "We apostles should spend our time teaching the word of God, not running a food program. And so, brothers, select seven men who are well respected and are full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will give them this responsibility. Then we apostles can spend our time in prayer and teaching the word." Transformation! It's not stated explicitly, but a transformation had taken place! Only a short time ago, the disciples of Jesus had refused to wash feet as an act of service (Peter) and some had wanted positions of power and greatness (James & John). But as they are transformed by the indwelling Holy Spirit, they react much more righteously and judiciously - just as Jesus Christ would have done. WOW! All together now! Then they gathered all the believers together for a church meeting. They gave their opinion or judgment if you like, that their ministry or time would be better spent doing what God had called them to do - to be leaders of the Church, praying, preaching, evangelizing and discerning how best to apply the 3 years of teaching that they had had when travelling with Jesus Christ before His ascension. Note also that the Apostles didn't say their work was more important than serving. Other people in the church gathering, who had a ministry of service and overseeing the food distribution, could spend their time doing that! The Result Acts 6v7 - So God's message continued to spread. The number of believers greatly increased in Jerusalem, and many of the Jewish priests were converted, too. The result was even greater growth now! This growth was where the word of God increased in its effectiveness in the lives of those unbelievers who would listen to the gospel. This growth was not merely addition but multiplication! So explosive was this growth, that even former enemies such as Jewish priests were becoming converts and started to believe in the bodily resurrection of Jesus Christ. The church was preaching one thing and acting upon it. There was no hypocrisy within the church. The church was transparent - it lived as it believed. The church was seen as transformative and servant-like. Transformation and change alone would not have been the catalyst for growth, without the reasoning behind it. Instead of being a withdrawn people filled with fear of retribution from the Roman government and Jewish leaders, they became a people filled with boldness and joy - serving God and others, just as Jesus Christ did. But there was one further problem and it was just as Jesus had warned them the night before His own crucifixion and had prayed for them! 2. Persecution Arises! But a true crisis soon appears which almost caused the growing body of believers, the only church in existence at the time, to implode and die! All the power and passion of the early church, however, had a cost. The early church endured persecution from the Jewish authorities, keen to exercise authoritarian rule. The early church was persecuted for Jesus as the Messiah. What was the result of this persecution? The world was changing, particularly for the Jewish people. For centuries they had been expectant of a Messiah or Saviour. When the Messiah, Jesus Christ, did come - they missed Him. They had misunderstood what the Messiah was to do. The Messiah was not to lead a political revolution as they thought, but rather lead a spiritual revolution, bring people back into relationship with God. Just as we saw in the Old Testament Covenants. The worldview of the Jewish people needed to be changed and when worldviews need wholesale change of focus, problems arise. The embryonic church, was soon to feel pressure to revert back to old ways of thinking. It is not long into the book of Acts, and therefore the history of the church, that persecution arises. We see the first stages of this persecution in Acts 4v1-4. While Peter and John were speaking to the people, they were confronted by the priests, the captain of the Temple guard, and some of the Sadducees. These leaders were very disturbed that Peter and John were teaching the people that through Jesus there is a resurrection of the dead. They arrested them and, since it was already evening, put them in jail until morning. However somewhat surprisingly we then read in verse 4 that "But many of the people who heard their message believed it, so the number of believers now totalled about 5,000 men, not counting women and children." We read in Acts 5v29, the response of the Apostles to this persecution and harassment: "We must obey God rather than any human authority. The early church was not going to just give up their beliefs! One example of this persecution is from Acts 6-7 and the first Christian martyr: Stephen. Stephen had reminded these Jewish leaders that God did not dwell in buildings made from stone, as in the Temple. For God had also been with his people in various places, such as Mesopotamia, Palestine and Egypt! Stephen reminded them also of how the Jews had always rejected God's messengers and now finally, they had killed God's Son, the Messiah, Jesus Christ. He also reminded them that what made somebody a person after God's own heart was not the physical circumcision but a circumcision of the heart. It was a spiritual revolution that occurred when a people were in relationship with the Living God, not just the outward appearance. His persecutors were livid with rage at this! Stoning is an awful and excruciating way to die. While Jesus had prayed to the Father in his dying moments, Stephen prayed to - Jesus! Stephen, sees Jesus in all his magnificent, glorious and heavenly majesty, and can only cry out to Him in such a way! Then finally he asks Jesus to forgive those who have killed him. We see in Stephen's final words, the reaction of a man full of faith and filled with the Spirit undergoing pressure. We see his love and faith put into practise when he exclaimed as his last words before dying, Acts 7v59 "don't hold this sin against them!" Looking on was the leader of his persecutors, Saul. If the New Testament church had known that Jesus did not rise from the dead physically, would the church have grown like it has over 2000 years? Would people like Stephen, have knowingly died, or undergone systematic persecution, for a known lie or mistruth? Our study next time, we will look at how King Jesus makes a brief re-appearance, the church moves on from these "problems" and commences fulfilling the command of Jesus to go to all nations with the good news about Him. Thank you! 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Church Birthday G'day and welcome to Partake! We are now on day 26 of our series "Glimpses", looking at the story of the Bible in 30 days - from the time of creation through to the time of the fullness of redemption! Jesus has died, rose again from the dead, ascended back to the right hand of the Father - all just as he said he would. The physical resurrection of Jesus Christ was the catalyst for the beginning of the church but the empowerment was to come, as promised by Jesus! Since his resurrection he has given his disciples instructions, including the command to go make disciples of all nations with the message he gave them! Then he told them to wait in Jerusalem! But for who? Remember they were still hopeful of Jesus returning to defeat the Roman Empire and install a political kingdom of God! But they were wrong and soon found out they were wrong! So they waited, but for what, or rather, who? Waiting! Acts1:12-14 Then they returned to Jerusalem from the mountain called Olivet, which is near Jerusalem, a Sabbath day's journey away. When they had come in, they went up into the upper room, where they were staying; that is Peter, John, James, Andrew, Philip, Thomas, Bartholomew, Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, Simon the Zealot, and Judas the son of James. All these with one accord continued steadfastly in prayer and supplication, along with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brothers. Acts 2:1-2 Now when the day of Pentecost had come, they were all with one accord in one place. Suddenly there came from the sky a sound like the rushing of a mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. As we saw last time, Jesus has ascended back to the right hand of the Father. The 12 apostles are now back in Jerusalem and waiting for the Holy Spirit to come as promised by Jesus. More about Him later in this podcast! It was now the time of the Shavuot in the Jewish calendar - 50 days after Passover (remember that from Jesus' last night!) Pentecost derives itself from the Old Testament festival known as the Jewish Feast of Weeks or Shavuot. This feast consisted of the first-fruits of the wheat harvest and selected animals were sacrificed, all as an act of thanksgiving to God, according to the Law given to Moses (Leviticus 23:15-20). But it was soon to change its meaning under the New Covenant. It became Pentecost, the Greek word for ‘50 days', and marks the birthday of the church! What is the birthday of the church? That is the day when the Holy Spirit came down and empowered the disciples for service! The day now known as Pentecost celebrates the day when, as promised by Jesus, as part of the New Covenant (remember that), the Holy Spirit came down to live inside the disciples of Jesus Christ, and empower and transform them! Empowered! Take Peter for an example! Just a few days earlier he had rejected Jesus Christ and openly defied Him by trying to stop Jesus going to the cross. This Peter, who was dejected and defeated because he had put everything into following this Jesus. In the early chapters of the bible Book of Acts, we see all disciples being transformed. Some were affected in amazingly spectacular ways and others in more placid ways. Let us concentrate on Peter for a good example of this. This is now a new Peter, transformed by the indwelling Holy Spirit, who speaks with the authority Jesus gave the disciples. Peter, given impetus by the Holy Spirit, preaches a sermon and 3000 people are added to the church in one day (Acts 2v41). This Peter, who when passing by a man who couldn't walk, told him to get up and walk - and he did (Acts 3v1-11)! A WOW moment for sure! Peter was allowing himself to be controlled by the Holy Spirit and doing some of the things that were synonymous with Jesus' earthly ministry. Transformed! What is the difference between this Peter and the Peter before Jesus' resurrection? It was only the Holy Spirit, the empowerment and the difference He made to Peter. Peter, by submitting himself to the authority and power of the Holy Spirit, was allowing the Holy Spirit to control him and guide him. This Peter, who we know from the Gospel accounts, had no self-control, yet now had self-control because he submitted to the Holy Spirit. The greatest evidence of the Holy Spirit living inside of humans, is the transformation of the individual into the image of Jesus - as demonstrated by our example, Peter. This Peter who allowed the Holy Spirit's power to heal people also administered church discipline as in the case of Ananias and Sapphira (Acts 5v10). But it wasn't just Peter who was empowered. As Acts 5v12-16 shows us, all the followers of Jesus, not just the twelve apostles, filled and controlled by the Holy Spirit, were able to do healings and other miracles. Not just those more spectacular gifts of healing, miracles etc but also gifts such as mercy, generosity, helps and service. The Holy Spirit, living inside and empowering all believers, for service of Jesus Christ, not just the original 12 apostles or disciples. That is one of the reasons the early church grew phenomenally and more about that growth later on in this series! Who is the Holy Spirit? But who is the Holy Spirit? Good question! In the Old Testament the Spirit makes appearances but only comes on one person at a time during that time. David is a good example of that! There was to be a time when He would live inside all believers in God through the Messiah! That's under the terms of the New Covenant as This is part of the fulfilment of the New Covenant, where the Almighty and All-powerful God would indwell those who follow him. Throughout his ministry Jesus had often talked about how after he departed back to the Father, that the Holy Spirit would come. The Holy Spirit is spoken of as God (1 Corinthians 3v16). The attributes of God are ascribed to the Holy Spirit - life (Romans 8v2), truth (John 16v13) and love (Romans 15v30). The Holy Spirit is also a Person and is always referred to as ‘He' in the New Testament (John 16v14). He relates to humanity as a person for he lives inside the believer as comforter, guide and teacher (John 14). He can be blasphemed against and be grieved (Ephesians 4v30). Wherever the Holy Spirit is, the Father and Son are also present. (John 14v18-23). Throughout the Book of Acts and in the other New Testament writings we discover more about the Holy Spirit. We see His prime role to glorify Jesus Christ as the Son of God (John 16v13-14), to testify for Jesus Christ (John 15v26) and witness for Jesus Christ (Acts 1v8) to humans. The Holy Spirit is involved with ministering to members of the church, as Jesus would be if He were there physically. There is more about the Holy Spirit if you search on this website! With all this, the Holy Spirit also equipped all the followers of Jesus for service, to will and to act accordingly to those purposes. We see in the rest of the Book of Acts, how the Holy Spirit empowered the early church and gave them impetus. Transformation and service are the key working practises of the Holy Spirit and we will His handiwork in our next episode as we see the Church begin! The Pharisees and Sadducees are long gone. The Roman Empire collapsed. But... But... But... Jesus' church still stands, is still growing, and will one day be joined with Jesus in eternity, to the praise, honour and glory of Him who will return in majesty, just as He promised! More about that later on in this series! So that's the birthday of the church! What happened next is what we talk about tomorrow! Thank you! Tap or click here to download as a MP3 audio file

SCRIPTURE: Matthew 6:1-8 SHOW NOTES: For encouragement on your spiritual journey, we invite you to visit our ministry website, Discover God's Truth, where you will find additional resources to enrich your Walk with God. We look for lessons and examples from Scripture to guide our walk with God. In the first part of this series, “The Power of Prayer,” we examined many examples from the Old Testament. Now, we turn to the pages of the New Testament. In today's lesson, we will explore Jesus' words in Matthew 6. Jesus warns the disciples about hypocrisy. Yes, we are to live righteous lives, but “Watch out!” “You are the light of the world … let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father” (Matthew 5:14-16). We are to perform good deeds openly in front of a watching world, not for our praise, but to draw attention to our Heavenly Father and give Him glory!"And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by others." Matthew 6:5Again, “Do not be like the hypocrites.” He references the Pharisees and Sadducees, the two main religious groups. They are obsessed with what others think of them. They seek recognition for their “good and righteous acts.”We pray for the same reasons children talk to their parents. We share concerns. We have a relationship and seek fellowship. We want help when facing tough times and confusing situations in life. Children need the wisdom of a Father and Mother. "Lord, hear my prayer! Listen to my plea! Do not turn away from me in my time of distress. Bend down to listen and answer me quickly when I call to you." Psalm 102:1-2 SONG: "When We Pray" - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4DJ3NjA9ZjA&list=RD4DJ3NjA9ZjA&start_radio=1

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. Thank you for joining me today and following us throughout Project 23. If you would like to learn more about this project, click the link to discover more and partner with us. Our text today is Mark 12:18-27: And Sadducees came to him, who say that there is no resurrection. And they asked him a question, saying, “Teacher, Moses wrote for us that if a man's brother dies and leaves a wife, but leaves no child, the man must take the widow and raise up offspring for his brother. There were seven brothers; the first took a wife, and when he died left no offspring. And the second took her, and died, leaving no offspring. And the third likewise. And the seven left no offspring. Last of all the woman also died. In the resurrection, when they rise again, whose wife will she be? For the seven had her as wife.” Jesus said to them, “Is this not the reason you are wrong, because you know neither the Scriptures nor the power of God? For when they rise from the dead, they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but are like angels in heaven. And as for the dead being raised, have you not read in the book of Moses, in the passage about the bush, how God spoke to him, saying, ‘I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob'? He is not God of the dead, but of the living. You are quite wrong.” — Mark 12:18-27 Sometimes we don't want the truth. We want control. And so, we try to outsmart God. That's exactly what the Sadducees were doing here. They didn't believe in the resurrection, so they built a cleverly absurd story to make it look foolish. Seven brothers. One woman. No kids. One question: Whose wife will she be in heaven? To them, it was intellectual checkmate. But Jesus didn't flinch at their game. “You're wrong,” he said. “Because you don't know the Scriptures or the power of God.” To Jesus, their issue was not a matter of theological debate—it was a matter of spiritual diagnosis. They didn't want the truth. They tried to trap truth in their logic and reduce an infinite God to a human riddle. But you don't have to be a slippery Sadducee to try to outsmart God. We act this way every time we twist Scripture to justify sin. Every time we argue around obedience. Every time we elevate our logic over God's revelation. We're not wrestling for clarity—we're dodging surrender and trying to outsmart God. Jesus reveals that faith doesn't come from clever arguments—it comes from humble submission to God's will, as laid out in Scripture. It comes from knowing God's Word and trusting God's power, even when it doesn't fit our mental grid. So, stop debating with God like you're his equal. You don't need to outthink Him. You merely need to trust Him. Read his Word. Take him at his word. And act in faith. Because the real issue isn't intelligence—it's always surrender. #Mark12, #TrustOverControl, #ObedientFaith ASK THIS: Why did Jesus say the Sadducees were “quite wrong”? How do we sometimes use cleverness to avoid surrender? What's one truth you've been rationalizing instead of obeying? What would it look like to trust God's power over your logic? DO THIS: What's one area where you've been reasoning your way out of obedience? Confess it today—and take a simple step of surrender instead. PRAY THIS: God, I confess the ways I've tried to control you with logic. I don't want to win arguments—I want to walk in obedience. Teach me to trust you again. Amen. PLAY THIS: “Reign Above It All”

Title: The King's Authority and Worldly Opposition: Fragile Faith and False TeachersMain Text: Matthew 16:5–12 (ESV) 5 When the disciples reached the other side, they had forgotten to bring any bread. 6 Jesus said to them, “Watch and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees.” 7 And they began discussing it among themselves, saying, “We brought no bread.” 8 But Jesus, aware of this, said, “O you of little faith, why are you discussing among yourselves the fact that you have no bread? 9 Do you not yet perceive? Do you not remember the five loaves for the five thousand, and how many baskets you gathered? 10 Or the seven loaves for the four thousand, and how many baskets you gathered? 11How is it that you fail to understand that I did not speak about bread? Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees.” 12 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.Preaching Point: In a world flooded with dangerous and deceptive teaching, we must continue maturing in our faith or risk being swept away by error.Teaching Points:Identify Your Twofold Danger vv5-7Make Your Spiritual Maturity a Priority vv8-11aPut Your Spiritual Maturity to Work vv11b-12

But the high priest rose up, and all who were with him (that is, the party of the Sadducees), and filled with jealousy they arrested the apostles and put them in the public prison. But during the night an angel of the Lord opened the prison doors and brought them out, and said, “ Go and stand in the temple and speak to the people all the words of this Life.” And when they heard this, they entered the temple at daybreak and began to teach. Acts 5:17-21 ESVThe goodness of God is many times over, greater than any opposition a person of faith will ever face.  When the high priest came, and those who were with him, they called together the council, all the senate of the people of Israel, and sent to the prison to have them brought. But when the officers came, they did not find them in the prison, so they returned and reported, “We found the prison securely locked and the guards standing at the doors, but when we opened them we found no one inside.” Acts 5:21-23 ESV  Even when my situation seemingly remains the same, God can still change me and set me free. Now when the captain of the temple and the chief priests heard these words, they were greatly perplexed about them, wondering what this would come to. Then someone arrived with startling news: “The men you put in jail are standing in the Temple, teaching the people!” Acts 5:25 MSGFreedom doesn't make you immune to attack, but it does make it difficult for temptation to target you.The chief and his police went and got them, but they handled them gently, fearful that the people would riot and turn on them. Bringing them back, they stood them before the High Council. - - The Chief Priest said, “Didn't we give you strict orders not to teach in Jesus' name? And here you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching and are trying your best to blame us for the death of this man.” Peter and the apostles answered, “It's necessary to obey God rather than men. Acts 5:26-29 MSGDon't allow the hypocritical perspectives of others to move you off of believing and applying God's truth.The Spirit makes it clear that as time goes on, some are going to give up on the faith and chase after demonic illusions put forth by professional liars. These liars have lied so well and for so long that they've lost their capacity for truth. 1 Timothy 4:1-2 MSGConsistently rejecting God will cause you to lose the ability to discern truth, even when it's obvious.I insist, and God backs me up on this, that there be no going along with the crowd, the empty-headed, mindless crowd. They've refused for so long to deal with God that they've lost touch not only with God but with reality itself. They can't think straight anymore. Feeling no pain, they let themselves go in sexual obsession, addicted to every sort of perversion. Ephesians 4:17-19 MSGThe God of our ancestors raised up Jesus, the One you killed by hanging him on a cross. God set him on high at his side, Prince and Savior, to give Israel the gift of a changed life and sins forgiven. And we are witnesses to these things. The Holy Spirit, whom God gives to those who obey him, corroborates every detail.” Acts 5:30-32 MSGThe emboldened ability to embody and share the life changing message of Jesus has always followed faithfulness to His word and will. When they heard this, the high council was furious and decided to kill them. But one member, a Pharisee named Gamaliel, who was an expert in religious law and respected by all the people, stood up and ordered that the men be sent outside the council chamber for a while. Then he said to his colleagues, “Men of Israel, take care what you are planning to do to these men! Some time ago there was that fellow Theudas, who pretended to be someone great. About 400 others joined him, but he was killed, and all his followers went their various ways. The whole movement came to nothing. After him, at the time of the census, there was Judas of Galilee. He got people to follow him, but he was killed, too, and all his followers were scattered. “So my advice is, leave these men alone. Let them go. If they are planning and doing these things merely on their own, it will soon be overthrown. But if it is from God, you will not be able to overthrow them. You may even find yourselves fighting against God!” The others accepted his advice. They called in the apostles and had them flogged. Then they ordered them never again to speak in the name of Jesus, and they let them go. The apostles left the high council rejoicing that God had counted them worthy to suffer disgrace for the name of Jesus. And every day, in the Temple and from house to house, they continued to teach and preach this message: “Jesus is the Messiah.” Acts 5:33-42 NLTLife's most immutable reality is the truth and love of Jesus is and the never ending impact He has on those who hope in Him!

In Matthew 22 verses 1-14 we have the parable of the wedding feast of the Kingdom, to which we all have been invited through the Gospel. Our Omnipotent King has provided the only garment needed for admission; the sin covering raiment of His ever glorious and pre-eminent Son. We put this garment on when we believe the gospel, repent and are baptised. The disciple must then live a life of faithfulness for our Father to graciously give us a place in His kingdom. A sobering note concludes this parable: "Many are called, but few are chosen". Then follow four questions, each one from each of the three main political parties in Israel and then unanswered question from the Lord to each of these groups. These answers provided incontrovertible proof from the Scriptures that Jesus was the Promised Messiah. Verses 15-22 addresses the unpopular subject of taxation. The tax here was the Roman tax which was even more hated because it maintained Roman armies in Judah's land. The Land that had been given to them by the Almighty. Jesus was asked: "Should we pay this tax? Or, should we not pay it?" If our Lord said - yes - then he lost popularity with his people. If he said - no - then he could be accused of treason against Rome. His enemies were sure Jesus was trapped. However he completely turned the table on his adversaries. He masterfully not only answered the question but also used the occasion to direct all the hearers to their responsibilities to their God. Our Lord asked for a denarius. Whose image and superscription is on this coin? Caesar's they replied. Then give to Caesar what is his and to God what belongs to Him. We have been made in the image and likeness of God. So our lives, minds and actions belong to Him. Verses 23-33 say that the Sadducees came to Jesus with a trick question relating to resurrection. This sect accepted only the first five books of the Old Testament - called the Book of Moses. They mistakenly believed that resurrection was not supported by these Scriptures. However Jesus proves from Exodus 3 verses 15-17 that the raising of the dead is proven by Yahweh saying that He is the God of Abraham, and God is the God of the living, for all live unto Him - not He was - therefore Abraham has a future after his being restored to life in the future. Their failure, Jesus declared , was in not knowing the Scriptures nor the power of God (verse 29). Verses 34-38 Jesus is asked by Pharisee lawyer which is the greatest commandment in the Law of Moses. This topic was hotly debated among the religious leaders. Our Lord's answer is that it is very clear: You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, and mind and strength - Deuteronomy 6 verses 4-5. Jesus says that the second is like unto it: You shall love your neighbour as yourself: Leviticus 19:18; 1 John 4:7-13. The chapter concludes proving Jesus himself to be the divine son of David (after the flesh), but God's Son of the Father's right hand, as attested. In verses 39-46 Jesus asks his critics whose son is Messiah, his Lord? Easy they thought! The Old Testament tells us that Messiah is the son of David. If so, says Jesus, why then does David in Psalm 110 call Messiah his Lord? This was an impossibility in Jewish reckoning for a son to be superior to his father. The only way for this to be true is for Jesus to be the Son of God as well as being the son of David: Psalm 110 verses -2; 2 Samuel 7 verses 2-16, 2 Samuel 23 verses 1-7; Micah 5 verses 2-5. His opponents were left dumbfounded.

Jesus has proven Himself to be the perfect Man, bearing the title Son of Man, the perfect Messiah, bearing the title Son of David, and the perfect Prophet, Priest, and King. The Pharisees, Sadducees, and Scribes have challenged Jesus to their own detriment. The overarching message of Jesus' sermons is that no mere human is righteous enough to enter the Kingdom. Only Jesus has perfectly obeyed the law. It is only by His atoning death and resurrection that we may by faith receive the gift of His righteousness. In Matthew 23, Jesus proclaims woes on the Pharisees for following the signs (phylacteries, fringes, tithing, etc.) while neglecting genuine righteousness and faith. Notably, he said that the scribes and pharisees have not entered the kingdom and are “children of hell.” As we see, the way of the Pharisees is not merely an old model of faith; they are following a false religion and are facing judgment for killing the prophets of God. Pastor Dan takes us through Matthew 23, explaining that faith in Christ is essential for salvation and the false religion of the Pharisees is going to be judged. Jesus provides further details about their judgment in relation to the destruction of the temple in the next Chapter (24).

2 Samuel 6 contains two tragic incidents and one of exceptional joy. Having taken Jebus David has now made it his capital and is intent on bringing the ark of the covenant to "Jerusalem" as the centrepiece of the LORD's worship. The nation is to be united through the praise and understanding of their Almighty Sovereign. In his enthusiasm for the bringing of the ark David has omitted to find out the proper way to transport the ark. Verses 1-4 describe the pomp that was to accompany the journey of the ark. A new cart had been made and two priests were given the responsibility for transporting the ark. Verses 5-11 tell of the failed attempt to bring it to Jerusalem. Uzzah and Ahio were driving the cart accompanied by great festivity when it came to the threshingfloor of Nashon and the oxen stumbled. Uzzah put out his hand to steady the ark and the LORD immediately struck him dead. David was devastated and the journey came to a standstill. The ark was taken aside into the field of Obed-Edom where it remained for three months. David was fearful to have stirred up Yahweh's anger and brought about Uzzah's death. However the Gentile house where the ark stayed was blessed by Almighty God. Verses 12-15 describe the final journey of the ark to its resting place in Jerusalem - this time being carried on the priests' shoulders. Its voyage was with burnt offerings and priests trumpeting its progress. Psalm 132 was written by David telling us what was in his mind at this time. Read and ponder how this occasion was typical of the righteousness and peace that will come with Messiah's kingdom. David also composed a Psalm of thanksgiving - look at the words of 1 Chronicles 16:8-37. The ark was placed in a tent that David had erected for it: Amos 9:11-15 talk of the restoration when our Lord Jesus will rule from Jerusalem. Sadly Michal, Saul's daughter, was ashamed of her husband and poured scorn on David for throwing himself wholeheartedly into the praise of his God. For this David no longer treated Michal as a wife. Michal remained childless for her pride. Notice that David gave gifts to the people of that which represented "bread and wine". The king was enacting the part of a king-priest after the order of Melchizedek as this chapter and the next two chapters will reveal.  Jeremiah 11 verses 1-5 speak of the Almighty cursing Judah for their failure to keep the covenant that He made with the forefathers of the nation - Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. The words of Yahweh take the form of oath and the prophet shows his agreement with God's curse by saying "Amen" at the close of the LORD's words. Verses 6-8 sees the prophet denouncing his nation as he walks through the streets of Jerusalem. Verses 9-13 tell of Judah returning to the sins of many of their predecessors in the worshipping of the baals. There were, says God, as many of the these as there were cities in Judah. Verses 14-20 say how the leaders had made a conspiracy against Jeremiah to eliminate him. The word picture deliberately chosen shows how their attitude defied the Law of the LORD God Almighty. These leaders sought to destroy both the tree and its fruit. Israel were forbidden to do this. And so their Omnipotent Creator had determined to bring disaster to Judah. Jeremiah acknowledges that Yahweh is true and righteous and therefore Judah's punishment is deserved and measured. Verses 21-23 reveal that the chief plotters against the prophet were the men of Anathoth - Jeremiah's hometown. Anathoth was a town of priests of whom Jeremiah was one. In Matthew 22 verses 1-14 we have the parable of the wedding feast of the Kingdom, to which we all have been invited through the Gospel. Our Omnipotent King has provided the only garment needed for admission; the sin covering raiment of His ever glorious and pre-eminent Son. We put this garment on when we believe the gospel, repent and are baptised. The disciple must then live a life of faithfulness for our Father to graciously give us a place in His kingdom. A sobering note concludes this parable: "Many are called, but few are chosen". Then follow four questions, each one from each of the three main political parties in Israel and then unanswered question from the Lord to each of these groups. These answers provided incontrovertible proof from the Scriptures that Jesus was the Promised Messiah. Verses 15-22 addresses the unpopular subject of taxation. The tax here was the Roman tax which was even more hated because it maintained Roman armies in Judah's land. The Land that had been given to them by the Almighty. Jesus was asked: "Should we pay this tax? Or, should we not pay it?" If our Lord said - yes - then he lost popularity with his people. If he said - no - then he could be accused of treason against Rome. His enemies were sure Jesus was trapped. However he completely turned the table on his adversaries. He masterfully not only answered the question but also used the occasion to direct all the hearers to their responsibilities to their God. Our Lord asked for a denarius. Whose image and superscription is on this coin? Caesar's they replied. Then give to Caesar what is his and to God what belongs to Him. We have been made in the image and likeness of God. So our lives, minds and actions belong to Him. Verses 23-33 say that the Sadducees came to Jesus with a trick question relating to resurrection. This sect accepted only the first five books of the Old Testament - called the Book of Moses. They mistakenly believed that resurrection was not supported by these Scriptures. However Jesus proves from Exodus 3 verses 15-17 that the raising of the dead is proven by Yahweh saying that He is the God of Abraham, and God is the God of the living, for all live unto Him - not He was - therefore Abraham has a future after his being restored to life in the future. Their failure, Jesus declared , was in not knowing the Scriptures nor the power of God (verse 29). Verses 34-38 Jesus is asked by Pharisee lawyer which is the greatest commandment in the Law of Moses. This topic was hotly debated among the religious leaders. Our Lord's answer is that it is very clear: You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, and mind and strength - Deuteronomy 6 verses 4-5. Jesus says that the second is like unto it: You shall love your neighbour as yourself: Leviticus 19:18; 1 John 4:7-13. The chapter concludes proving Jesus himself to be the divine son of David (after the flesh), but God's Son of the Father's right hand, as attested. In verses 39-46 Jesus asks his critics whose son is Messiah, his Lord? Easy they thought! The Old Testament tells us that Messiah is the son of David. If so, says Jesus, why then does David in Psalm 110 call Messiah his Lord? This was an impossibility in Jewish reckoning for a son to be superior to his father. The only way for this to be true is for Jesus to be the Son of God as well as being the son of David: Psalm 110 verses -2; 2 Samuel 7 verses 2-16,  2 Samuel 23 verses 1-7; Micah 5 verses 2-5. His opponents were left dumbfounded.

Join Harvard-educated Bishop Andy Lewter, Historian of the Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship, as he explores the rich tapestry of Christian history through scholarly insight and pastoral wisdom. In this compelling series, Bishop Lewter examines Christianity's origins within the complex landscape of first-century Jewish sectarianism, revealing how the early church emerged not as an independent movement, but as a branch within Judaism's diverse religious ecosystem.Discover the fascinating world of Pharisees, Sadducees, Essenes, Zealots, and other Jewish sects that shaped the context in which Christianity was born. Through careful historical analysis, Bishop Lewter illuminates how understanding these ancient religious movements is essential to comprehending the development of Christian leadership structures, including the office of the Episcopacy.Each episode combines rigorous scholarship with accessible teaching, making complex historical concepts understandable for modern listeners. Whether you're a student of history, a church leader, or simply curious about Christianity's roots, this podcast offers fresh perspectives on how the past continues to inform our present understanding of faith and church governance.New episodes explore the intersection of ancient history and contemporary Christian practice, bringing 2,000 years of church history to life.

Main Text: Matthew 16:1–4 (ESV) 1 And the Pharisees and Sadducees came, and to test him they asked him to show them a sign from heaven. 2 He answered them, “When it is evening, you say, ‘It will be fair weather, for the sky is red.' 3 And in the morning, ‘It will be stormy today, for the sky is red and threatening.' You know how to interpret the appearance of the sky, but you cannot interpret the signs of the times. 4 An evil and adulterous generation seeks for a sign, but no sign will be given to it except the sign of Jonah.” So he left them and departed.Preaching Point: We must reject the temptation to demand more signs from God and place our confidence in the ultimate sign He has already provided in the death and resurrection of Christ.Teaching Points:Expose the Intent Behind Sign Seeking v1Beware of Spiritual Blindness vv2-3Focus on God's Ultimate Sign v4

Finding Jesus in Unexpected Places // Finding –The Samaritan Woman at the Well John 4:1-42 (NIV)“Now Jesus learned that the Pharisees had heard that he was gaining and baptizing more disciples than John— although in fact it was not Jesus who baptized, but his disciples. So he left Judea and went back once more to Galilee. Now he had to go through Samaria. So he came to a town in Samaria called Sychar, near the plot of ground Jacob had given to his son Joseph. Jacob's well was there, and Jesus, tired as he was from the journey, sat down by the well. It was about noon. When a Samaritan woman came to draw water, Jesus said to her, “Will you give me a drink?” (His disciples had gone into the town to buy food.) The Samaritan woman said to him, “You are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink?” (For Jews do not associate with Samaritans) Jesus answered her, “If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water.” “Sir,” the woman said, “you have nothing to draw with and the well is deep. Where can you get this living water? Are you greater than our father Jacob, who gave us the well and drank from it himself, as did also his sons and his livestock?” Jesus answered, “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” The woman said to him, “Sir, give me this water so that I won't get thirsty and have to keep coming here to draw water.” He told her, “Go, call your husband and come back.” “I have no husband,” she replied. Jesus said to her, “You are right when you say you have no husband. The fact is, you have had five husbands, and the man you now have is not your husband. What you have just said is quite true.” “Sir,” the woman said, “I can see that you are a prophet. Our ancestors worshiped on this mountain, but you Jews claim that the place where we must worship is in Jerusalem.” “Woman,” Jesus replied, “believe me, a time is coming when you will worship the Father neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem. You Samaritans worship what you do not know; we worship what we do know, for salvation is from the Jews.  Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. 24 God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.” The woman said, “I know that Messiah” (called Christ) “is coming. When he comes, he will explain everything to us.” Then Jesus declared, “I, the one speaking to you—I am he. Just then his disciples returned and were surprised to find him talking with a woman. But no one asked, “What do you want?” or “Why are you talking with her?” Then, leaving her water jar, the woman went back to the town and said to the people,“Come, see a man who told me everything I ever did. Could this be the Messiah?” They came out of the town and made their way toward him. Meanwhile his disciples urged him, “Rabbi, eat something.” But he said to them, “I have food to eat that you know nothing about.” Then his disciples said to each other, “Could someone have brought him food?” “My food,” said Jesus, “is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work.Don't you have a saying, ‘It's still four months until harvest'? I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest. Even now the one who reaps draws a wage and harvests a crop for eternal life, so that the sower and the reaper may be glad together. Thus the saying ‘One sows and another reaps' is true. I sent you to reap what you have not worked for. Others have done the hard work, and you have reaped the benefits of their labor.” Many of the Samaritans from that town believed in him because of the woman's testimony, “He told me everything I ever did.” So when the Samaritans came to him, they urged him to stay with them, and he stayed two days. And because of his words many more became believers. They said to the woman, “We no longer believe just because of what you said; now we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this man really is the Savior of the world.”Deuteronomy 25:5 (NIV)“If brothers are living together and one of them dies without a son, his widow must not marry outside the family. Her husband's brother shall take her and marry her and fulfill the duty of a brother-in-law to her.” Mark 12:18-23 (NIV)“Then the Sadducees, who say there is no resurrection, came to him with a question. “Teacher,” they said, “Moses wrote for us that if a man's brother dies and leaves a wife but no children, the man must marry the widow and raise up offspring for his brother. Now there were seven brothers. The first one married and died without leaving any children. The second one married the widow, but he also died, leaving no child. It was the same with the third. In fact, none of the seven left any children. Last of all, the woman died too. At the resurrection whose wife will she be, since the seven were married to her?” John 4:27 (NIV)“Just then his disciples returned and were surprised to find him talking with a woman. But no one asked, “What do you want?” or “Why are you talking with her?” John 4:27 (MSG)“Just then his disciples came back. They were shocked. They couldn't believe he was talking with that kind of a woman. No one said what they were all thinking, but their faces showed it.” Jesus not only walked through cultural barriers, but he also walked through racial barriers.  Jesus not only walked through cultural barriers and racial barriers, but he also walked through religious/traditional barriers. John 4:20-24 (NIV)“Our fathers worshiped in this mountain, and you people say that in Jerusalem is the place where men ought to worship.” Jesus said to her, “Woman, believe Me, an hour is coming when neither in this mountain nor in Jerusalem will you worship the Father. You worship what you do not know; we worship what we know, for salvation is from the Jews. But an hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for such people the Father seeks to be His worshipers. God is spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.”  Jesus brings the focus from the practice to the purpose. John 4:10-14 (NIV)“Jesus answered and said to her, “If you knew the gift of God, and who it is who says to you, ‘Give Me a drink,' you would have asked Him, and He would have given you living water.” She said to Him, “Sir, You have nothing to draw with and the well is deep; where then do You get that living water? You are not greater than our father Jacob, are You, who gave us the well, and drank of it himself and his sons and his cattle?” Jesus answered and said to her, “Everyone who drinks of this water will thirst again; but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him shall never thirst; but the water that I will give him will become in him a well of water springing up to eternal life.”  Revelation 22:17 (NASB)“Let the one who is thirsty come; let the one who wishes take the water of life without cost.”  

Galatians‬The best use of life is love.1 Corinthians‬1 Corinthians 13:13 And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. Butthe greatest of these is love.The best expression of love is time.1 Corinthians‬The best time to love is now.Matthew 22:34 Hearing that Jesus had silenced the Sadducees, thePharisees got together. 35One of them, an expert in the law, tested himwith this question: 36“Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in theLaw?”37Jesus replied: “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with allyour soul and with all your mind.'  38This is the first and greatestcommandment. 39And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor asyourself.'  40All the Law and the Prophets hang on these twocommandments.”If you love God first and love God most you'll love others best.

Vin Latteri - July 13th 2025 The danger isn't just around us—it's the subtle influence that shapes us from within. As we continue our The King & His Kingdom series in Matthew 16:1–12, Jesus is met with demands for signs—and offers a warning instead: beware the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees. This message challenges us to examine what's forming our thinking. Are our expectations causing us to miss Jesus? Are we forgetting what Jesus has already done? Are we letting fear or control take the lead? Jesus calls us back to trust, to memory, and to a kingdom mindset. Learn more about our church: https://restoredtemecula.church Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/restoredtemecula and Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restoredtemecula #Matthew16 #BewareTheYeast #KingdomMindset #FaithOverFear #TheKingAndHisKingdom #RestoredTemecula #ChristianSermon #TrustJesus #SpiritualDiscernment #BiblicalTeaching Share this message with someone who needs to hear it! Chapters (00:00:00) - Welcome Home: Restored Church(00:00:34) - A Special Message for One of Our Clergy(00:03:07) - Jesus Thanks For His Gifts(00:04:47) - The Kingdom of Heaven vs The Kingdom of This World(00:07:55) - The Bible(00:08:14) - The Sign of the Sea(00:11:57) - The Differences Between the Pharisees and the Sadducees(00:19:26) - What Are Expectations?(00:21:58) - Favorite Trip Of All Time(00:22:31) - driving from Tokyo to Kyoto in Japan(00:26:49) - The Japanese Police Pull Over My Car(00:29:02) - Do You Have Expectations That Make You Miss Jesus?(00:31:27) - Beware of the Leaven of the Pharisees and Sad(00:36:27) - The kingdom of heaven is also inside out(00:42:23) - The Who of King Jesus(00:44:16) - Do You Have Expectations That Are causing You to Miss Jesus?(00:51:25) - "Start Living Inside Out"(00:51:52) - Listen to the Spirit and Be Obedient

We continue our series in Matthew, with a look at the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees in Matthew 16. This week's discussion questions and the spiritual checkup included in this message are below: Self-Righteous Faith Checkup 1. You feel morally superior to others. You look down on others who sin differently than you do, assuming you're better because you don't struggle in the same way. You believe you've outgrown needing mercy — forgetting that the gospel is for all sinners. 2. You're more focused on other's sins than your own. You spend so much time criticizing or judging others, and always have an excuse when you behave badly. 3. You take pride in your spiritual performance. You find your identity in your church attendance, prayer, giving, Bible knowledge rather than finding it in Jesus. 4. You believe because of your good behavior or spiritual deeds that God owes you something and you feel frustrated when other people who do things you never would get blessed. Like the older brother in the prodigal son story, you feel resentful when someone who “doesn't deserve it” is welcomed. 5. You spend more time correcting people rather than encouraging them. You're quick to give people “truth” but slow to offer grace, compassion or love. 6. You only want to spend time with people who look, act and believe like you. You avoid people outside your theological, political or moral tribe. 7. You struggle to admit that you are wrong, and find reasons that even when you were wrong you were actually kinda right. 8. You study scripture to justify yourself, not to become like Jesus. You use the Bible as a weapon against others, not a mirror for yourself. 9. You talk about Jesus more than you live and love like Him. You have the right theology, but you haven't become a person who acts like Jesus, and that's the telos of the Christian faith. 10. You get tired of serving others if you aren't seen, praised for it and given a pat on the back. Your faith is performative — more about image than intimacy with God. 11. When people challenge or question you, you become defensive and view it as an attack, rather than an opportunity to become more like Jesus. 12. You think some people are beyond saving. July 13 Discussion Questions 1. What stood out to you in Jesus' warning about the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees? Why do you think Jesus used yeast as His metaphor? 2. In what ways can pride or self-righteousness sneak into our faith without us noticing? Can you identify a time when this has happened in your own walk with God? 3. Which of the 12 “faith checkup” statements felt most personally convicting or relevant to you? Why do you think that is? 4. How do we balance speaking truth with showing grace and compassion in our relationships with others? What does that look like practically? 5. Jesus doesn't give up on His disciples even when they misunderstand Him. How does that encourage you in your journey of following Him — especially when you feel like you've “missed it”? 6. What would it look like for you to start being more honest with yourself and with God this week? Are there areas you tend to avoid because they're painful or messy? 7. Who are the people in your life you trust to help point out blind spots or areas of pride in your faith? How might you open yourself up to their input?

Please join us with Pastor Matt Irving as we explore Luke 20:27-47 and Jesus questioning on resurrection by the Sadducees.

At church we learn that Jesus is most important.“Peter and the other apostles replied: ‘We must obey God rather than men!'” (Acts 5:29, NIV).

In chapter 14 verses 1-12 of Matthew Herod is struck with terror on hearing of the miracles of Jesus. Herod Antipas, a convert of the Sadducees (and therefore a non believer in the resurrection of the dead) was convinced that John the Baptist had been raised from the dead. Our Lord is told of John's brutal decapitation and in response seeks solitude to reflect. Verses 13-22 tell us that Jesus is interrupted by a multitude seeking him out and his compassionate response to their need of a shepherd to teach them: compare Numbers 27 verse 17. Jesus feeds 5,000 of them and heals many. John 6 tells us that their desire was to take him by force and make him their king. Jesus summarily dispersed the crowd and went into a mountain to pray. Verses 24-33 speak of Jesus sending the Apostles by boat to the other side of the lake. After praying on the mountain our Lord saw the Apostles toiling in rowing on a storm tossed sea and failing to make any progress. The Lord came to them through the storm, walking on the water. Peter alone showed the faith and courage to briefly do likewise. Though Peter's faith faltered he alone had the courage to walk on the Sea of Galilee at the request of his master. O that such trust in our master and such confidence was ours that Peter then displayed! Peter was rescued by his Master. Their port of destination was Capernaum - meaning the city of consolation. This speaks of our destination and finding comfort when our Lord, the Father's Son and our hope and consolation, has come. Verses 34-36 tell us that Jesus on reaching the other side of the lake Jesus healed many at Gennesaret.

At church we learn that Jesus is most important.“Peter and the other apostles replied: ‘We must obey God rather than men!'” (Acts 5:29, NIV).

Daily Dose of Hope July 8, 2025   Scripture - Matthew 22:23-46   Prayer:  Lord Jesus, We come before you this morning, thanking you for a new day.  Lord, you are good and we rejoice in your holy and powerful name.  As we begin our day, Lord, help us focus on you.  Help us set aside our scattered thoughts and focus on your Word and what you want us to learn today.  We get so distracted and self-consumed.  Forgive us for that, Lord.  In these next few moments of silence, help us have laser focus on your voice... In Your Powerful Name, Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, a deep dive into the Gospels and Acts.  Today, we finish up with Matthew 22.    In this chapter, we see the Pharisees and Sadducees are trying to trick Jesus. They are desperately trying to trap him in his words so they can discredit him and/or arrest him. These teachers of the law feel like Jesus is destroying the very fabric of their religious faith. He certainly is turning everything upside down!   The first part of today's passage is addressing Levirate marriage.  The Sadducees, the intellectual aristocracy of the day, did not believe in resurrection.  They were pressing Jesus on the topic, hoping to make him look foolish.  If you will recall from Mark, levirate law was intended to protect widows without a male heir.  When a brother died, leaving his wife without children, a surviving brother marries the widow with the sole intention of producing an heir.  If a son is conceived, he is actually considered to be the deceased brother's child.  In ancient near-East culture, a widow without any connection to a male would either starve or be forced to beg or prostitute herself.    Thus, the Sadducees question makes a little more sense even though it is a bit absurd.  A woman's husband dies and she marries a brother.  That brother dies and she marries another brother and so forth until she has been married to all seven brothers.  Then she dies.  Whose wife will she be at the resurrection?  Keep in mind, they ask this question knowing that they think the resurrection is false.    Jesus basically tells them they are missing the point. In the resurrection, our bodies will be different – perfect and glorious.  There will also be a change in our spiritual nature.  Jesus is saying that in regard to marriage and sexual matters, we will be like the angels (note that he did not say we will be angels but we will be like them.)    But the Sadducees were mistaken so significantly not because of this absurd question but because they didn't believe in the resurrection.  This is a fundamental aspect of Jesus' teaching and they missed it entirely.    The next part of today's Scripture is in regard to the greatest commandment.  Keep in mind, when asking about which commandment is greatest, the expert in the law is hoping to engage in some kind of debate. But the commandment Jesus chose was not one that could be open for debate–it was a commandment recited by pious Jews each and every day, Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. But then, Jesus adds something new, as he often does. He says...and the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself.   A person cannot love God and treat their neighbor poorly. Love of God is not an intellectual or abstract claim. Rather, love of God is expressed in the way we love others. I John 4:20 speaks to this truth, Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen. What's interesting to me here is that Jesus says that the law and the prophets hang on these two commandments. If one loves God wholeheartedly, then they will observe the law. If someone loves God wholeheartedly, they will care for others as well. The prophets often proclaimed the need to worship God sincerely (not just go through the motions) and take care of those who were oppressed. One cannot split hairs about observing the Sabbath but then cheat your neighbor in the marketplace. Love of God and neighbor are intricately connected. This was true 2000 years ago and it's true today.   Think about this past week. How have you demonstrated love of God? What about love of neighbor?   In the final portion of today's Scripture, rather than allowing the Pharisees to try to entrap him, Jesus asks the hard question.  He asks the group, “What do you think of the Messiah? Whose son is he?”  They immediately respond, “The son of David.”  How then, Jesus asked, could David call him by the Spirit ‘Lord' when he said, “The Lord said to my Lord, ‘Sit at my right hand, until I put your enemies under your feet”' (Psalm 110:1). “If David”, Jesus said, “Calls him ‘Lord,' how can he be his son?” The Pharisees were unable to answer and “from that day on no one dared to question him any longer”. Jesus point was missed.  Of course, Jesus had descended from David. He was the Son of God.  He was the Messiah, the one the Jews had been waiting for, for hundreds of years.  He was right before their eyes and they were missing it.  Blessings, Pastor Vicki  

Rev. James Harper preached on Luke 20:27-44 as part of our sermon series "Following Jesus" on the Book of Luke.    Jesus confronted the Sadducees who denied the resurrection with a powerful defense of life after death. The Sadducees, a powerful but disliked group who controlled the Jewish Sanhedrin, tried to trap Jesus with a trick question about marriage in the afterlife. Jesus responded by revealing their misunderstanding of both God's character and Scripture. He explained that the resurrection reality differs from earthly life, and pointed to scriptural evidence including God's self-identification as the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob - patriarchs who were physically dead but alive to God. This resurrection hope gives meaning that transcends our circumstances and reminds us that God desires eternal relationship with us.

What about resurrection?- The Sadducees did not believe in heaven because they could not understand the concept. A lack of belief in the afterlife affected the way they lived their lives. Jesus lovingly tried to help them see the error of their ways.

Monday, 7 July 2025   The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and they say, ‘Look, a glutton and a winebibber, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!' But wisdom is justified by her children.” Matthew 11:19   “He came, the Son of Man, eating and drinking, and they say, ‘You behold! A man, a glutton, and a winebibber! A friend of taxmen and sinners!' And it is justified, the wisdom, from her children” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus noted that John came neither eating nor drinking, and they said he had a demon. He continues with, “He came, the Son of Man, eating and drinking.”   Jesus is referring to Himself in the third person, contrasting His life to that of John. As noted in the previous commentary, “eating and drinking” signifies more than just the act of eating and drinking, but doing so in a social setting. Whereas John would refrain from such things, Jesus welcomed them. For example –   “Then Jesus entered and passed through Jericho. 2 Now behold, there was a man named Zacchaeus who was a chief tax collector, and he was rich. 3 And he sought to see who Jesus was, but could not because of the crowd, for he was of short stature. 4 So he ran ahead and climbed up into a sycamore tree to see Him, for He was going to pass that way. 5 And when Jesus came to the place, He looked up and saw him, and said to him, ‘Zacchaeus, make haste and come down, for today I must stay at your house.' 6 So he made haste and came down, and received Him joyfully. 7 But when they saw it, they all complained, saying, ‘He has gone to be a guest with a man who is a sinner.'” Luke 19:1-7   Understanding this, Jesus continues, saying, “and they say, ‘You behold! A man, a glutton, and a winebibber! A friend of taxmen and sinners!'”   Two new words are introduced here. The first is phagos, a glutton. The second is oinopotés, a winebibber. It is derived from oinos, wine, and pinó, to drink. Both words will only be seen again in the comparable passage in Luke 7.   As in the account of Zacchaeus, Jesus went into the houses of those whom the Pharisees and Sadducees would never enter. He ate and drank what was put before Him without any objections.   Seeing this, the judgmental sort called him a glutton and a winebibber. This shows the utter folly of their thinking. John, who refrained from any such thing, was said to have a demon. Jesus, who openly associated with those shunned by the elites, is accused of inappropriate behavior.   Neither had committed any infraction of the law, and yet, they were arrogantly dismissed as being something they were not. As such, those saying such things had made themselves the standard of what is acceptable and what is not, ignoring the fact that it is the Lord, through the law, who set the standards of what was acceptable in the society.   As for the words, “they say,” it is the same thought from the previous verse –   ... and they say he has a demon! ... and they say, “You behold! A man, a glutton, and a winebibber!”   The words reveal who “this generation” in verse 16 is. It is not referring to John and Jesus, but to the Jews who stood accusing them –   Vs. 17 ...they say, “We piped to you and not you danced. We bewailed to you and not you breast-beat.” Vs. 18 ...and they say he has a demon! Vs. 19 ...and they say, “You behold! A man, a glutton, and a winebibber!”   Jesus is making a one-to-one comparison of those in His example and the Jews who stood around, finger-pointing at the lifestyles of John and Jesus. Because of this, Jesus concludes the thought with, “And it is justified, the wisdom, from her children.”   Another new word is seen here, dikaioó, to render just or innocent. It is that which is upright because of meeting a proper standard. Jesus is saying the wisdom, that which is divinely set forth by God, and which seems so arbitrary in how it is displayed, meaning in the conflicting, changeable conduct between John and Jesus, is proven upright from their actions.   Both Jesus and John were within their rights to live their lives as they desired while adhering to the Law of Moses as the guide for Israeli society. Despite one living in a certain way while the other lived in a completely different manner, they performed their roles before God in a way that He accepted and that brought Him glory.   Life application: Jesus' words show that God can and does work through different means and allowances to meet the set goals of the plan of redemption. John was used while living the life of an ascetic. Jesus lived His life associating with the outcasts, dining with them, etc. The two seemingly contrary lifestyles merged to form a part of God's unfolding redemptive narrative.   This is like the doctrine of dispensationalism. People have a problem with it because it seems fickle. In the dispensational model, God works one way with one group of people and another way with another group. As such, it seems arbitrary, and it appears that His plans are conflicting and changeable.   Such is not the case. The wisdom of God expresses itself through these various methods to form a whole. Bread doesn't just pop into existence. It first grows as wheat. The wheat is harvested and processed. It is then ground in a mill. After that, it will be mixed into dough. From there, the dough is placed in an oven. Once the bread is finished, butter is slathered all over it, and the family enjoys it as a part of dinner.   Each step of the process is different, and yet, a final anticipated result is realized. This is akin to how God's dispensational plan works from beginning to end. It is a step-by-step process, each dispensation unique and different from the others, culminating in eternal fellowship between God and His creatures. Peace and harmony are restored and realized.   Lord God, Your wisdom is on display in everything around us. The movement of the stars, pollination by the bees, males and females forming a couple... each of these and an infinite number more things reveal Your wisdom. It is also seen in Your word, which explains to us how we can be reconciled to You through Jesus. Thank You for such wonderful wisdom, leading to hope and restoration. Amen.

The most irrefutable testimony for the truth of God is a life that has been changed and healed!While Peter and John were addressing the people, the priests, the chief of the Temple police, and some Sadducees came up, indignant that these upstart apostles were instructing the people and proclaiming that the resurrection from the dead had taken place in Jesus. They arrested them and threw them in jail until morning, for by now it was late in the evening. But many of those who listened had already believed the Message, in round numbers about five thousand! Acts 4:1-4 MSGThose who are open to God's voice will hear Him, and those who aren't, won't! The next day the council of all the rulers and elders and teachers of religious law met in Jerusalem. Annas the high priest was there, along with Caiaphas, John, Alexander, and other relatives of the high priest. Acts 4:5-6 NLTThe decision to ignore or manipulate God's truth is a form of self-deception with roots in demonic rebellion! Jesus said to the people who believed in him, “You are truly my disciples if you remain faithful to my teachings. And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” John 8:31-32 NLTDenying the truth doesn't make it less true or you less accountable for the consequences of disobedience.They brought in the two disciples and demanded, “By what power, or in whose name, have you done this?” Acts 4:7 NLTThen Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them, “Rulers and elders of our people, are we being questioned today because we've done a good deed for a crippled man? Do you want to know how he was healed? Let me clearly state to all of you and to all the people of Israel that he was healed by the powerful name of Jesus Christ the Nazarene, the man you crucified but whom God raised from the dead. For Jesus is the one referred to in the Scriptures, where it says, ‘The stone that you builders rejected has now become the cornerstone.' There is salvation in no one else! God has given no other name under heaven by which we must be saved.” Acts 4:8-12 NLTA man can no more diminish God's glory by refusing to worship Him than a lunatic can put out the sun by scribbling the word 'darkness' on the walls of his cell. C. S. Lewis The members of the council were amazed when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, for they could see that they were ordinary men with no special training in the Scriptures. They also recognized them as men who had been with Jesus. But since they could see the man who had been healed standing right there among them, there was nothing the council could say. Acts 4:13-14 NLT Objections to God's truth and will and fall silent against an honest assessment of His Grace and Glory.What should we do with these men?” they asked each other. “We can't deny that they have performed a miraculous sign, and everybody in Jerusalem knows about it. Acts 4:16 NLTFriends, I realize that what you and your leaders did to Jesus was done in ignorance…. Now repent of your sins and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped away. Acts 3:17 & 19 NLTJustification and pride are the right soil for deception, while humility and repentance are the right soil for a harvest of deliverance and freedom. The council then threatened them further, but they finally let them go because they didn't know how to punish them without starting a riot. For everyone was praising God for this miraculous sign, the healing of a man who had been lame for more than forty years. Acts 4:21-22 NLTAll the believers were united in heart and mind. And they felt that what they owned was not their own, so they shared everything they had. The apostles testified powerfully to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and God's great blessing was upon them all. Acts 4:32-33 NLTObedient faith in the risen Christ is the foundation for everything God does in and through His people and His church. 

We continue in our series in the book of Matthew. This week's discussion questions are below: Discussion Questions 1. What are some of the key differences between the feeding of the 5,000 and the feeding of the 4,000? Why do you think Matthew included both stories? 2. What does Jesus' compassion in Matthew 15:32 reveal about his heart and his priorities? 3. How did the disciples respond to the situation, even after seeing a similar miracle before? What does that tell us about human nature? 4. Have you ever experienced “spiritual amnesia” — forgetting how God provided for you in the past when facing a new challenge? 5. In what ways are you tempted to seek signs from God in uncertain times? How can you grow in discernment instead of chasing certainty? 6. What “signs of the kingdom” have you seen in your life or in the world around you — signs that Jesus is at work even if it's not dramatic or flashy? 7. The Pharisees and Sadducees demanded a sign, but were unwilling to see what was already in front of them. How can we guard against becoming spiritually blind to God's work? 8. Jesus points to the “sign of Jonah” — how does the resurrection function as the ultimate sign, and how should that shape our faith?

Flowing with God or Fighting against God?   Scale of 1-10 If flowing with God is a 10—and fighting against God is a 1—where are you on that scale? Acts 4:36-37 Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus, whom the apostles called Barnabas (which means “son of encouragement”), 37 sold a field he owned and brought the money and put it at the apostles' feet. Acts 5 Now a man named Ananias, together with his wife Sapphira, also sold a piece of property.  2 With his wife's full knowledge he kept back part of the money for himself, but brought the rest and put it at the apostles' feet. 3 Then Peter said, “Ananias, how is it that Satan has so filled your heart that you have lied to the Holy Spirit and have kept for yourself some of the money you received for the land?  4 Didn't it belong to you before it was sold? And after it was sold, wasn't the money at your disposal? What made you think of doing such a thing? You have not lied just to human beings but to God.” 5 When Ananias heard this, he fell down and died. And great fear seized all who heard what had happened.  6 Then some young men came forward, wrapped up his body, and carried him out and buried him. 7 About three hours later his wife came in, not knowing what had happened.  8 Peter asked her, “Tell me, is this the price you and Ananias got for the land?” “Yes,” she said, “that is the price.” 9 Peter said to her, “How could you conspire to test the Spirit of the Lord? Listen! The feet of the men who buried your husband are at the door, and they will carry you out also.” 10 At that moment she fell down at his feet and died. Then the young men came in and, finding her dead, carried her out and buried her beside her husband.  11 Great fear seized the whole church and all who heard about these events.   Beware of hypocrisy.   12 The apostles performed many signs and wonders among the people. And all the believers used to meet together in Solomon's Colonnade.  13 No one else dared join them, even though they were highly regarded by the people.  14 Nevertheless, more and more men and women believed in the Lord and were added to their number.  15 As a result, people brought the sick into the streets and laid them on beds and mats so that at least Peter's shadow might fall on some of them as he passed by.  16 Crowds gathered also from the towns around Jerusalem, bringing their sick and those tormented by impure spirits, and all of them were healed.   17 Then the high priest and all his associates, who were members of the party of the Sadducees, were filled with jealousy.  18 They arrested the apostles and put them in the public jail.    Beware of jealousy.   19 But during the night an angel of the Lord opened the doors of the jail and brought them out.  20 “Go, stand in the temple courts,” he said, “and tell the people all about this new life.” 21 At daybreak they entered the temple courts, as they had been told, and began to teach the people. When the high priest and his associates arrived, they called together the Sanhedrin—the full assembly of the elders of Israel—and sent to the jail for the apostles.  22 But on arriving at the jail, the officers did not find them there. So they went back and reported, 23 “We found the jail securely locked, with the guards standing at the doors; but when we opened them, we found no one inside.”  24 On hearing this report, the captain of the temple guard and the chief priests were at a loss, wondering what this might lead to. 25 Then someone came and said, “Look! The men you put in jail are standing in the temple courts teaching the people.”  26 At that, the captain went with his officers and brought the apostles. They did not use force, because they feared that the people would stone them. 27 The apostles were brought in and made to appear before the Sanhedrin to be questioned by the high priest.  28 “We gave you strict orders not to teach in this name,” he said. “Yet you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching and are determined to make us guilty of this man's blood.” 29 Peter and the other apostles replied: “We must obey God rather than human beings!  30 The God of our ancestors raised Jesus from the dead—whom you killed by hanging him on a cross.  31 God exalted him to his own right hand as Prince and Savior that he might bring Israel to repentance and forgive their sins.  32 We are witnesses of these things, and so is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey him.” 33 When they heard this, they were furious and wanted to put them to death.  34 But a Pharisee named Gamaliel, a teacher of the law, who was honored by all the people, stood up in the Sanhedrin and ordered that the men be put outside for a little while.  35 Then he addressed the Sanhedrin: “Men of Israel, consider carefully what you intend to do to these men.  36 Some time ago Theudas appeared, claiming to be somebody, and about four hundred men rallied to him. He was killed, all his followers were dispersed, and it all came to nothing.  37 After him, Judas the Galilean appeared in the days of the census and led a band of people in revolt. He too was killed, and all his followers were scattered.  38 Therefore, in the present case I advise you: Leave these men alone! Let them go! For if their purpose or activity is of human origin, it will fail.  39 But if it is from God, you will not be able to stop these men; you will only find yourselves fighting against God.” 40 His speech persuaded them. They called the apostles in and had them flogged. Then they ordered them not to speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. Beware of neutrality. 41 The apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name.  42 Day after day, in the temple courts and from house to house, they never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Messiah.

This Sunday teaching team member and guest speaker, AJ VanDellen asked us if we are still putting first things first?  Are you still following the first and greatest commandment?  Join us this Sunday for a brand-new series "What Parenting Taught Me About God."  34 Hearing that Jesus had silenced the Sadducees, the Pharisees got together. 35 One of them, an expert in the law, tested him with this question: 36 “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” 37 Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.Our mission is to glorify God by equipping His people to change their world and by planting churches with the same world-changing vision.Website: https://mannastafford.church/Find us on: Facebook:   / mannastafford  Instagram:   / manna.stafford  TikTok:   / manna.stafford

Acts 4:1-22 After Peter preached to the crowd that had just witnessed a healing miracle, the Jewish leaders became annoyed and questioned their right to preach about Jesus. Pastor Rod Bunton describes the scene where the intimidation of the Sadducees was met by the boldness of the Holy Spirit empowering these men of God. Biblical Understanding of Authority booklet The post The First Persecution of the Church appeared first on Grace Church of Tallahassee.

Resurrection Correction. Jesus didn't tell the Sadducees they were wrong to be mean. He told them they were wrong because they didn't know the Scriptures or the power of God. That warning isn't just for ancient skeptics. It's for us.

On todays show Texas Jim and James, Chris, and Glenn talk about on the theological concept of belief in Christ and its implications for salvation. Key points included the necessity of recognizing Jesus as the Messiah, the Son of God, and the importance of the resurrection. The conversation explored the intellectual, emotional, and voluntary aspects of faith, emphasizing the need for propositional knowledge and the role of the Holy Spirit. The debate also touched on the historical context of the Sadducees and Pharisees' beliefs, the significance of the resurrection in the New Testament, and the practical application of these teachings in evangelism. Don't miss it!

In this episode of the "Daily Devotionals for Kids and Adults" podcast, Pastor Colton Robinson delves into a thought-provoking section of Mark's Gospel, where Jesus engages in a complex dialogue with the Sadducees concerning the concept of resurrection. This discussion is rooted in a Biblical narrative that explores different interpretations of life after death, providing listeners with a nuanced examination of Christian beliefs regarding resurrection. Pastor Colton also tackles contemporary issues of whether it's our duty to correct others' misconceptions—and the importance of doing so with kindness and truth.Pastor Coalt offers listeners a detailed analysis of Mark 12:18-27, where the Sadducees challenge Jesus with a question designed to ridicule the concept of resurrection. He illustrates how Jesus responds by reframing their materialistic views and emphasizing the power and authority of God. This episode is rich with theological insight, highlighting not only the historical context of the scripture but also its implications for modern believers. Pastor Coalt's grounded and empathetic approach ensures that listeners of all ages can grasp these essential Christian teachings.Understanding the Resurrection: Resurrection is not merely an extension of earthly life but a profound transformation that transcends worldly concerns and relationships.Correction with Compassion: It is vital to address misconceptions with kindness and truth, ensuring that we do not come off as know-it-alls while still upholding the truth.Material vs. Spiritual: Emphasizing the Sadducees' misunderstanding, Jesus clarifies that heavenly existence isn't dictated by earthly relationships or status.Purpose in Heaven: Life after death is characterized by worship and unity in Christ, surpassing any earthly affiliations or desires.Jesus' Authority: This passage in Mark underscores Jesus' knowledge and authority, as He deftly counters the Sadducees' challenge, demonstrating both scriptural insight and divine wisdom."Is not the reason you are wrong because you know neither the scriptures nor the power of God?""Our main purpose [in heaven] will be Jesus, the one who saved us.""They were very wrong…because they had a false understanding of what the resurrection would be like.""Resurrection is from death to life. And we need to understand that God is the God of the living.""What is going to matter in heaven? It's going to be Jesus."Bethel Church, Yale, South DakotaDaily Devotions for Kids and Adults PodcastTo immerse yourself fully in Pastor Coalt Robinson's enriching discussions, listen to the complete episode of the "Daily Devotionals for Kids and Adults" podcast. Stay updated for more profound teachings that enhance your spiritual journey and understanding of the scriptures.

Acts 4 The priests and the captain of the temple guard and the Sadducees came up to Peter and John while they were speaking to the people. 2 They were greatly disturbed because the apostles were teaching the people, proclaiming in Jesus the resurrection of the dead.  3 They seized Peter and John and, because it was evening, they put them in jail until the next day.  4 But many who heard the message believed; so the number of men who believed grew to about five thousand. 5 The next day the rulers, the elders and the teachers of the law met in Jerusalem. 6 Annas the high priest was there, and so were Caiaphas, John, Alexander and others of the high priest's family.  7 They had Peter and John brought before them and began to question them: “By what power or what name did you do this?” 8 Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them: “Rulers and elders of the people! 9 If we are being called to account today for an act of kindness shown to a man who was lame and are being asked how he was healed,  10 then know this, you and all the people of Israel: It is by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified but whom God raised from the dead, that this man stands before you healed.  11 Jesus is “‘the stone you builders rejected, which has become the cornerstone.' 12 Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.” 13 When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus.  14 But since they could see the man who had been healed standing there with them, there was nothing they could say.  15 So they ordered them to withdraw from the Sanhedrin and then conferred together.  16 “What are we going to do with these men?” they asked. “Everyone living in Jerusalem knows they have performed a notable sign, and we cannot deny it.  17 But to stop this thing from spreading any further among the people, we must warn them to speak no longer to anyone in this name.” 18 Then they called them in again and commanded them not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus.  19 But Peter and John replied, “Which is right in God's eyes: to listen to you, or to him? You be the judges!  20 As for us, we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard.” 21 After further threats they let them go. They could not decide how to punish them, because all the people were praising God for what had happened.  22 For the man who was miraculously healed was over forty years old. 23 On their release, Peter and John went back to their own people and reported all that the chief priests and the elders had said to them.  24 When they heard this, they raised their voices together in prayer to God. “Sovereign Lord,” they said, “you made the heavens and the earth and the sea, and everything in them.  25 You spoke by the Holy Spirit through the mouth of your servant, our father David: “‘Why do the nations rage and the peoples plot in vain? 26 The kings of the earth rise up and the rulers band together against the Lord and against his anointed one.' 27 Indeed Herod and Pontius Pilate met together with the Gentiles and the people of Israel in this city to conspire against your holy servant Jesus, whom you anointed.  28 They did what your power and will had decided beforehand should happen.  29 Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness.  30 Stretch out your hand to heal and perform signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus.” 31 After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly. 32 All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of their possessions was their own, but they shared everything they had. 33 With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And God's grace was so powerfully at work in them all 34 that there were no needy persons among them. For from time to time those who owned land or houses sold them, brought the money from the sales 35 and put it at the apostles' feet, and it was distributed to anyone who had need.

Daily Dose of Hope June 23, 2025   Scripture - Matthew 16:1-12   Prayer:  Almighty Father, We come to you today on this Monday morning with a sense of expectancy for the week.  For some of us, we are tired.  For others, we are hoping for a better week.  Lord, work in and through us as we go about our day.  Give us glimpses of your glory.  Keep reminding us over and over again that we belong to you.  In Your Name, Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope.  We are now roughly halfway through the book of Matthew.  I don't know about you, but I love digging into the Gospels with such detail.  I have learned a lot.  I hope you have too.   Today, we begin Matthew 16.  We start with the Pharisees and Sadducees looking for a sign again.  It's never enough.  While again their question really isn't that bad, Jesus can see through their words and into their hearts.  Jesus could arrange a voice from heaven to yell down at them but it would not be enough either.  Their hearts are hard.  They are far from God.    Jesus uses their discerning of the weather as an example of how they are pretty good with signs.  And yet, Jesus has given them all kinds of signs to look at and they refuse to believe.  It's not the lack of signs, it's their lack of openness to what God is doing right in front of them.    The next portion of the text is oddly funny to me.  The disciples head off somewhere and Jesus tells them, “Beware of the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees.”  They get off on this tangential discussion about bread and how they didn't bring any with them.  Do you think Jesus knows we didn't bring bread?  Is that what he is talking about?  Jesus was sinless so I don't think he would roll his eyes, but if he did, this would be the place.  Are they dense or do they just not listen well?   Jesus tells them that he isn't worried about their lack of bread.  And why in the world would they be worried?  They have just witnessed two miracles of abundance, where Jesus takes a little bread and fish and feeds thousands upon thousands.  Do they still not understand that Jesus can provide for all their needs?  What part of those miracles were lost on them?   But then Jesus said, “No, I was talking about the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees, you dumdums.”  No, he didn't say dumdums because he was grace-filled, but I might have.  Then, the disciples begin to get it.  Jesus wants them to beware of the hypocrisy and false teaching of the Jewish leaders.     While the word Pharisee has almost become synonymous with religious hypocrisy for us, it wasn't so in Jesus' day.  We've talked about this group before.  These men were considered very devout and they firmly believed that they could please God (and receive eternal life) through these really rigid laws regarding purity, cleanliness, prayer, tithing, and fasting.  There was nothing wrong with wanting to follow God's law, but they took this to the extreme, becoming legalistic and making it incredibly difficult for the average person to actually measure up.    The Sadducees were a little different.  They were the wealthy religious aristocracy.  They controlled the Temple, so they were a powerful group.  They differed in a number of ways from the Pharisees, particularly in that they didn't believe in resurrection or angels.    And Jesus is saying to beware of both of these groups.  Avoid their “yeast.”  If you think about yeast – just a little bit in the dough can easily permeate the rest of the dough.  In this case, the little bit of yeast would contaminate the whole lot.  A little bit of hypocrisy can cause harm.  A lot of hypocrisy can ruin the bunch.  Beware.   Hypocrisy has been so very damaging in the church.  Just a little bit turns someone off to Jesus.  Just a little bit can do a lot of damage.  Beware.   Blessings, Pastor Vicki  

Beware of Fungus Among UsWhen the child of GodLooks into the word of GodAnd sees the Son of GodThey are transformed by the Spirit of GodInto the image of GodFor the glory of God-Warren WiersbeCriswell looked at the older man and said, “Yes, brother, I agree. I think we as Christians should confess our shortcomings and sins to one another. Could we start with you?”Today we are going to see Jesus warn His disciples to avoid the false teaching and false lifestyle of both extremes – legalism and liberalism.Matthew 16:1-12The folly of asking THE sign for a sign - V. 1They disagreed fiercely with each other, but something had brought these fierce rivals together – hatred for Jesus. It still happens today!In their rejection of Jesus, they made the same mistake proud and unbelieving sinners still make – they put Jesus on trial, not realizing He is the very Judge we must all give an account to. If they didn't repent, there would remain on the path to Hell.The foolishness of rejecting THE sign all other signs point to - V. 2-4Red sky at night, sailor's delight; red sky in morning, sailor's take warning!Jesus' life, teaching and miracles were convincing signs of the times - that God's Kingdom had come among them, just as John the Baptist and He had proclaimed. Yet they would not repent and turn to Him in faith.Jesus saying they were adulterers means they were spiritual adulterers, they were not faithful to the very God who had said He would send the Messiah. Messiah was walking among them, and they rejected Him, preferring the idols they had set up. Idolatry is spiritual adultery.Jesus Himself was the only sign they needed, and the proof would be His resurrection from the dead. To gain eternal life, we need to embrace Jesus by faith and the miracle of His resurrection. “If they do not hear Moses and the Prophets, neither will they be convinced if someone should rise from the dead.” - Luke 16:30The importance of thinking about the right kind of food - V. 5-12Jesus wanted them to think of spiritual things first instead of just focusing on where their next meal would come from.Leaven usually represents evil in the Bible. A little evil mixed into teaching will bring a whole lump of problems! The Pharisees leaven brought about a whole lot of legalistic attitudes and actions. The Sadducees leaven brought about a whole lot of liberal attitudes and actions.Jesus was switching them from thinking about physical needs to thinking about spiritual truths. But they did what some of us are doing right now – they tuned spiritual matters out and focused on lunch.They wanted to have their physical needs met, which Jesus had shown was no problem for Him. But first He wanted them to focus on spiritual things! They had the same lack of understanding and hard hearts we often do today. So stop focusing on physical lunch and get your spiritual meal!Don't add unnecessary commands & expectations to God's people like the Pharisees did with their legalism. But also don't reject God's word like the Sadducees did, leading them to compromise and live carnally. “God is spirit, and those who worship Him must worship Him in spirit and in truth.” - John 4:24If we worship in spirit without truth we can wind up sinning by ‘loose living' like so many today who refuse to call anything sin. If we worship in truth without spirit we can wind up sinning with a ‘legalism' like so many today who show little love as they judge others harshly.He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God? - Micah 6:8

Jesus challenges every checklist we've ever used to grade ourselves. In Matthew 5:17-48 He insists that real righteousness reaches far beneath behavior to the motives that fuel it. Pastor Mark Medley unpacks this mind-bending section of the Sermon on the Mount by comparing it to international travel: you won't get far in Ireland if you drive on the American side of the road, and you'll overpay in France if you keep thinking in dollars instead of euros.Likewise, God's kingdom operates on its own measurements. Mark walks through five areas where Jesus resets the scale:Anger & Murder – Hatred incubates homicide. Deal with the heart first.Lust & Adultery – Imagination steers action; protect the inner life.Oaths & Integrity – Let “yes” mean “yes” without legal loopholes.Retaliation & Mercy – Drop the scoreboard and absorb the hit.Enemies & Love – Pray blessing on the very people who wound you.Each raises the standard beyond human reach (“Be perfect as your Father is perfect”) and sends us back to the opening Beatitude—poverty of spirit. That honest acknowledgment opens the door for a miracle Ezekiel predicted: God replaces stone hearts with living ones and powers obedience from the inside out.Mark also exposes the trap of religious rule-keeping. Sadducees, Pharisees, and Zealots all had lists, but none could convert God's currency of love. Rules alone breed division (“my list versus yours”) and miss the Law's true intent. Jesus fulfills the Law, then writes it on our hearts through the Holy Spirit so we can carry kingdom culture into everyday life—marriage, parenting, offices, and neighborhoods.Ready to rethink success? Hit play and let the red letters re-measure everything. Then share the message so friends can discover the freedom of living by heaven's standards instead of earth's scorecards.We are Trinity Community Church in Knoxville, Tennessee.Subscribe to our Podcast & YouTube channel to find past sermons, classes, interviews, and more!Find us on Facebook & Instagram

 29 And Jesus answering, said to them: You err, not knowing the Scriptures, nor the power of God.Respondens autem Jesus, ait illis : Erratis nescientes Scripturas, neque virtutem Dei. 30 For in the resurrection they shall neither marry nor be married; but shall be as the angels of God in heaven.In resurrectione enim neque nubent, neque nubentur : sed erunt sicut angeli Dei in caelo. 31 And concerning the resurrection of the dead, have you not read that which was spoken by God, saying to you:De resurrectione autem mortuorum non legistis quod dictum est a Deo dicente vobis : 32 I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob? He is not the God of the dead, but of the living.Ego sum Deus Abraham, et Deus Isaac, et Deus Jacob? Non est Deus mortuorum, sed viventium. 33 And the multitudes hearing it, were in admiration at his doctrine.Et audientes turbae, mirabantur in doctrina ejus. 34 But the Pharisees hearing that he had silenced the Sadducees, came together:Pharisaei autem audientes quod silentium imposuisset sadducaeis, convenerunt in unum : 35 And one of them, a doctor of the law, asking him, tempting him:et interrogavit eum unus ex eis legis doctor, tentans eum : 36 Master, which is the greatest commandment in the law?Magister, quod est mandatum magnum in lege? 37 Jesus said to him: Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with thy whole heart, and with thy whole soul, and with thy whole mind.Ait illi Jesus : Diliges Dominum Deum tuum ex toto corde tuo, et in tota anima tua, et in tota mente tua. 38 This is the greatest and the first commandment.Hoc est maximum, et primum mandatum. 39 And the second is like to this: Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.Secundum autem simile est huic : Diliges proximum tuum, sicut teipsum. 40 On these two commandments dependeth the whole law and the prophets.In his duobus mandatis universa lex pendet, et prophetae.St Aloysius is the patron of Catholic youth. Amid the seductions of court the young prince, full of merits and virtues, kept his first innocence by marvels of mortification. He entered the Society of Jesus in Rome at the age of sixteen, and died there seven years later a victim to the plague, June 21, A.D. 1591.

Friends of the Rosary,We continue reflecting upon the words of Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:43–48). In today's reading, Christ the Lord invites us to show merciful love to those who offend and attack us, and be perfect, just as our heavenly Father."You have heard that it was said,You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.But I say to you, love your enemiesand pray for those who persecute you,that you may be children of your heavenly Father,for he makes his sun rise on the bad and the good,and causes rain to fall on the just and the unjust.For if you love those who love you, what recompense will you have?Do not the tax collectors do the same?And if you greet your brothers only,what is unusual about that?Do not the pagans do the same?So be perfect, just as your heavenly Father is perfect." Love is willing the good of the other, and the test of love is when they cannot pay us back.The perfect example is Christ, who was betrayed by everyone (Jews, Romans, Pharisees, Sadducees, his disciples...), and yet these are the very people he loves, giving his life for them.Bishop Barron writes, "To the very people that contributed to his demise, he says, 'Shalom.” This is how we are loved; this is how we must love. Everything else is commentary."Ave Maria!Jesus, I Trust In You!Come, Holy Spirit, come!To Jesus through Mary!Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.Please give us the grace to respond with joy!+ Mikel Amigot w/ María Blanca | RosaryNetwork.com, New YorkEnhance your faith with the new Holy Rosary University app:Apple iOS | New! Android Google Play• ⁠June 17, 2025, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET

Acts 3 One day Peter and John were going up to the temple at the time of prayer—at three in the afternoon. 2 Now a man who was lame from birth was being carried to the temple gate called Beautiful, where he was put every day to beg from those going into the temple courts.  It's Not Over at the Gate 3 When he saw Peter and John about to enter, he asked them for money. 4 Peter looked straight at him, as did John. Then Peter said, “Look at us!” 5 So the man gave them his attention, expecting to get something from them. 6 Then Peter said, “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.”  7 Taking him by the right hand, he helped him up, and instantly the man's feet and ankles became strong. 8 He jumped to his feet and began to walk.  Then he went with them into the temple courts, walking and jumping, and praising God. 9 When all the people saw him walking and praising God,  10 they recognized him as the same man who used to sit begging at the temple gate called Beautiful, and they were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him.   11 While the man held on to Peter and John, all the people were astonished and came running to them in the place called Solomon's Colonnade.  12 When Peter saw this, he said to them: “Fellow Israelites, why does this surprise you? Why do you stare at us as if by our own power or godliness we had made this man walk?  13 The God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, the God of our fathers, has glorified his servant Jesus. You handed him over to be killed, and you disowned him before Pilate, though he had decided to let him go.  14 You disowned the Holy and Righteous One and asked that a murderer be released to you. 15 You killed the author of life, but God raised him from the dead. We are witnesses of this.  16 By faith in the name of Jesus, this man whom you see and know was made strong. It is Jesus' name and the faith that comes through him that has completely healed him, as you can all see. 17 “Now, fellow Israelites, I know that you acted in ignorance, as did your leaders. 18 But this is how God fulfilled what he had foretold through all the prophets, saying that his Messiah would suffer.  19 Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord,  20 and that he may send the Messiah, who has been appointed for you—even Jesus. 21 Heaven must receive him until the time comes for God to restore everything, as he promised long ago through his holy prophets.  22 For Moses said, ‘The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among your own people; you must listen to everything he tells you. 23 Anyone who does not listen to him will be completely cut off from their people.' 24 “Indeed, beginning with Samuel, all the prophets who have spoken have foretold these days.  25 And you are heirs of the prophets and of the covenant God made with your fathers. He said to Abraham, ‘Through your offspring all peoples on earth will be blessed.'  26 When God raised up his servant, he sent him first to you to bless you by turning each of you from your wicked ways.” Acts 4:1-4 The priests and the captain of the temple guard and the Sadducees came up to Peter and John while they were speaking to the people.  2 They were greatly disturbed because the apostles were teaching the people, proclaiming in Jesus the resurrection of the dead. 3 They seized Peter and John and, because it was evening, they put them in jail until the next day.  4 But many who heard the message believed; so the number of men who believed grew to about five thousand.  

Saturday, 14 June 2025   And he who does not take his cross and follow after Me is not worthy of Me. Matthew 10:38   “And who not, he receives his cross and he follows after Me, not he is worthy of Me” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus noted that those who love son or daughter more than Him are not worthy of Him. He now elevates the thought further, saying, “And who not, he receives his cross.”   In His words, the stauros, cross, is introduced. The word is derived from the base of the verb histémi, to stand, set, establish, place, etc. Of the word, Strongs says, “a stake or post (as set upright), i.e. (specially), a pole or cross (as an instrument of capital punishment); figuratively, exposure to death, i.e. Self-denial.” A lengthier explanation is provided by HELPS Word Studies –   ...the crosspiece of a Roman cross; the cross-beam (Latin, patibulum) placed at the top of the vertical member to form a capital "T." "This transverse beam was the one carried by the criminal" (Souter). Christ was crucified on a literal Roman cross ... ("cross") is also used figuratively for the cross (sacrifice) each believer bears to be a true follower-of-Christ (Mt 10:38, 16:24, etc.). The cross represents unspeakable pain, humiliation and suffering – and ironically is also the symbol of infinite love! At the cross, Jesus won our salvation – which is free but certainly not cheap! For more discussion on the untold suffering of Christ on the cross see ... /stauróō ("to crucify on a cross"). [The "cross" (Mk 8:34) is not a symbol for suffering in general. Rather it refers to withstanding persecution (difficult times), by the Lord's power, as He directs the circumstances of life. As Christ's disciples, believers are to hold true – even when attacked by the ungodly.]   As this is the first mention of the cross, something Jesus knew He would eventually have to suffer the torture of, His thoughts probably went forward to that moment and contemplated what He would endure for those gathered around Him. Of this, however, Vincent's Word Studies probably takes that point too far, saying –   “This was no Jewish proverb, crucifixion not being a Jewish punishment; so that Jesus uses the phrase anticipatively, in view of the death which he himself was to die.”   Though not a traditional Jewish punishment, it was a common one within the empire. As Israel was ruled by the Romans, everyone would know full well the meaning of the saying. In essence, it had by default become a Jewish saying as much as a Roman saying.   As noted in the explanation by HELPS Word Studies, those with Him would have understood this as a metaphor for withstanding persecution. Saying “his cross” makes the situation personal. Each person hearing the gospel could expect to face his own personal cross when accepting the message. Understanding this, He continues with, “and he follows after Me, not he is worthy of Me.”   Jesus was essentially bearing a cross, a state of persecution. The apostles would have seen this with each city they visited as He received blowback from the Pharisees, Sadducees, and others who constantly came against Him and His teaching. His words are telling them that they, too, would face this type of persecution as they went out.   This is the point of the instruction He is giving to them. They are being commissioned to go to the lost sheep of the House of Israel. When they speak, they will be persecuted for it. And more, those who hear and accept should expect this as well. There will be a cost to accepting the message that Jesus is the Messiah. He is telling them this in advance.   Life application: There are various views on what Jesus' cross was like. Some say it was an upright pole with a beam on top like a capital T. Some have it as an upright pole with a cross beam somewhere in the midst of the pole, like a small t.   The Jehovah's Witnesses call it a “torture stake” and say that it was a single upright pole with one's arms affixed above the head and the body hanging down below that. The Hallelujah Scriptures say Jesus was impaled on a stake. There are other forms of crucifixion, but these are the ones generally provided. Is there a way to tell which is correct? The answer is, “Yes. There is a way to tell. Check Scripture.”   Jesus was not impaled. Twice, the notion of Him being nailed to the cross is stated –   “Now Thomas, called the Twin, one of the twelve, was not with them when Jesus came. 25 The other disciples therefore said to him, ‘We have seen the Lord.' So he said to them, ‘Unless I see in His hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and put my hand into His side, I will not believe.'” John 20:24, 25   “And you, being dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, He has made alive together with Him, having forgiven you all trespasses, 14 having wiped out the handwriting of requirements that was against us, which was contrary to us. And He has taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the cross. 15 Having disarmed principalities and powers, He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them in it.” Colossians 2:13-15   Did Jesus die on a “torture stake?” No. He did not. It says in Matthew –   “And they put up over His head the accusation written against Him: THIS IS JESUS THE KING OF THE JEWS.” Matthew 27:37   If Jesus was crucified on a stake, Matthew would have said “over His hands,” not “over His head.” That leaves the big T and the little t. Which is it? The answer is a little t. If Jesus were crucified on a big T, the sign could not be over His head. Therefore, the standard little t is what Jesus died on after being nailed to it.   In Israel, there are Christian baptismal fonts (Jewish mikvehs) that have been found in the shape of this cross. The standard cross has been accepted since the earliest days as the one on which Jesus died. The main question is whether He carried only the lintel or the entire cross to His death. That can be argued over, but the shape of the cross, once erected, is clearly identifiable from Scripture.   But this should be no surprise. The shape of the cross is actually seen in Old Testament types and pictures as well. Though too long to include such a study here, it was clearly identified long before.   The question that should arise in our minds is, “Why do people try to change what has always been accepted as Jesus' type of crucifixion into something else?” The reason seems obvious when considering the source. People like the Jehovah's Witnesses and the Hebrew Root Movement adherents are heretics.   In order to draw people away from traditional Christianity and set orthodoxy, they introduce destructive heresies to confuse those who do not check things out, pulling them away from sound doctrine while drawing them to their own perverse instruction.   “But God forbid that I should boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.” Galatians 6:14   Lord God, thank You for the cross of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.  

What happens to marriage and life after death? In this episode, Dr. John explores Jesus' response to the Sadducees' challenge about resurrection and the age to come. He explains why marriage won't exist in the resurrection and shows how the Old Testament points to life beyond death. Dr. John highlights Jesus' teaching that God is the God of the living—offering hope and assurance of eternal life beyond this age.The King Arrives: Throughout North American history, there have been two main reactions to monarchy: rebellion or apathy. Some believe the Crown should be rejected, while others see it as largely irrelevant. In short, we wrestle with the idea of kingship. But for followers of Christ, acknowledging Jesus as King is not optional—it's foundational. In this series, Dr. John Neufeld explores Luke 17–20, showing that the Kingship of Jesus is not only central to the Christian faith, but vital for the world.

This week we continue with Mark Chapter 13. We find ourselves right in the middle of Holy week. Jesus has made his way to Jerusalem for the Passover and has been spending the days leading up to the feast speaking in the temple being challenged by Pharisees, Sadducees, Herodians and an many others trying to get him to slip up so that they can arrest him. Now as he and his disciples make their way out of the city, Jesus takes the opportunity in private to reveal to his followers things that are yet to come.

Send us a textGood morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:Amazon - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle)Spiritbuilding.com - (premium quality paperback)Youtube Video Introducing the ContentFeel free to reach out with any questions: emersonk78@me.comActs 23 Paul defends himself before the Jewish Council after his arrest. He proclaims his clear conscience and sparks a dispute between the Pharisees and Sadducees when he mentions his belief in the resurrection. The argument escalates, leading Roman soldiers to remove Paul for his safety. That night, the Lord appears to Paul, encouraging him to take heart and assuring him that he will testify in Rome. Meanwhile, a group of over forty Jews plot to kill him, vowing to fast until they succeed. Paul's nephew learns of the scheme and informs the Roman commander, who arranges for Paul to be escorted to Caesarea under heavy guard. This chapter emphasizes God's protection, His sovereign plan for Paul, and the courage required to stand for the gospel in the face of opposition.  God's sovereign power and protection are ever-present, even in the face of faithless opposition. Trusting in God's presence is crucial for standing up for the truth about Jesus. Just as Paul faced the Council, even religious people and parties can be aggressive and threatening. But the resurrection of the dead transforms us, offering hope and promises that transcend this world. While Paul's journey was not always pleasant, the challenges he faced led him to share Jesus with unexpected people, such as Felix, the Governor. We should seek ways to discern how God is guiding us into new environments and unplanned places, creating significant opportunities to share the gospel of Jesus Christ and the impact He has on our lives.  Wonderful Father, thank You for the resurrection of Jesus Christ. His victory over death has completely transformed our lives, hopes, and purpose. We live for eternal life, which guides everything we do. Help us to live by faith and maintain a good conscience in all our actions. We have so much to learn, but You call us to live with conviction to the best of our knowledge and ability. Use us to demonstrate the peace that comes from giving our hearts to You. Lead us to new and necessary places where we can testify to the love of Christ.  Thought Questions: -       What does it mean to live with a good conscience? How important is it to continue shaping your conscience with the word of God? -       Has God protected and spared you at times in your life? For what spiritual purpose has God preserved you up to this present time? -       The plot of the forty men failed. Do you believe God stops evil plans as He wills? How does that belief seed peace within your heart?

As we read about Jesus' entry into Jerusalem, Fr. Mike breaks down Jesus' interactions with his disciples and the Sadducees and his reaction to the widow's offering. We learn that a life rooted in Jesus is a life that bears good fruit. Today we read Mark 11-12 and Psalm 67. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

* You can get the sermon note sheet at: http://family-bible-church.org/2025Messages/25Jun08.pdf * Over the past several weeks we have been considering the examination of Jesus by the Scribes, Pharisees and Sadducees, who were looking for a way to accuse Him. As we began this consideration, we briefly examined the timing of the Passover tradition to see how Jesus' examination paralleled that of the choosing of the Passover Lamb. We mentioned at that time that we would look at the fulfillment of the feasts later. Today, we have that opportunity. * Today, we turn to the events of the final day prior to His crucifixion. Our text states that it was the time of the Feast of Unleavened Bread which was also referred to as Passover. It is important for us to understand the Old Testament timing and significance of this event. * For though the primary focus of this passage is upon Judas' betrayal of Jesus, there is baked within it the Jewish leaders' betrayal of YHWH at the time of a Feast which set to remind them of their redemption by YHWH. * This message was presented by Bob Corbin on June 8, 2025 at Family Bible Church in Martinez, Georgia.

Remember how, before Hurricane Michael, when the storm season came around we only gave it our mild interest. Post-Michael, I haven't yet met someone who doesn't follow Mike's Spaghetti models with grave intentionality between June and November. Experience and expectation really goes a long way in shaping our responses to the warnings we get from NOAA.As we continue our study in Matthew this week we'll be reading chapter 3. We're going to be introduced to a human GFS model – John the Baptist, who will be announcing the arrival of the Messiah and the launch of God's kingdom invasion.As you read John's message, what does his major theme seem to be? What is he calling people to do? What do you think his instructions meant to a Jewish person living in the first century? What does that mean to us, as 21st Century Americans? What sort of radical changes have taken place in your life as a result of embracing the Good News of Jesus?The Pharisees and Sadducees show up too, and John doesn't give them the greeting they are accustomed to. What does he seem to highlight as the problem with these religious leaders? Why does he call them “the offspring of snakes”? Thinking back through the Biblical narrative, do you remember a forecast of “the offspring of the serpent” bruising someone's heel? There's going to be a lot to unpack in this section that I'm really excited about!When Jesus shows up he does something that surprises everyone, including John. He gets in line for his turn to be baptized. John is nonplussed. “You're the Messiah, come to save us from sin…I need to be baptized by you…what do YOU need to repent of?” It's a puzzling scene to this day. Jesus said he needed to do it to, in the Greek, “fulfill all righteousness”. In other words – the righteousness, the setting things right that God intends comes through a Messiah who stands in the river with humanity, identifying with them, protecting them in their corrupted, vulnerable state. What does this tell us about what it means to “fulfill righteousness”?I'm so stoked to dig into this text – Hope to see you Sunday!Click here to view a pdf of the teaching slideshow.

Matthew 22:16-34