Podcasts about scripture acts

What if the decisions you're making today aren't just impacting you, but your children, your family, and generations you may never meet?In Acts 16, we're introduced to Lydia, a successful businesswoman whose encounter with God didn't stop with her. Scripture tells us that after Lydia was baptized, her household was baptized too.That small detail has completely changed the way I've been thinking about legacy.In this episode, we're talking about what we're modeling through our faith, relationships, physical habits, and businesses. Because whether we realize it or not, the people coming behind us are watching how we handle hard things, how we treat people, how we care for ourselves, how we pursue God, and whether we're willing to take risks and finish what we start.I also share some personal examples of how I've seen this play out in my own family, including choices my parents made decades ago that are still impacting my family today.Your business can make money. But your life has the opportunity to make an impact that lasts far beyond you.What are you modeling for the generation coming behind you?

You can build a church in America with a gifted communicator, good music, and a growing neighborhood. You don't need the Holy Spirit for that. But you cannot multiply without him. In week three of our Multiplying Church series, Pastor Jim Essian teaches from Acts 9:26-31 on how a church actually multiplies — and shares a major announcement about the future of The Paradox Church. When Saul arrived in Jerusalem, the disciples were afraid of him. It took Barnabas, the son of encouragement, vouching for the church's former greatest enemy. Churches that multiply are filled with people who remember their own story of redemptive grace — who know they needed it too. Luke gives us the formula in verse 31: walking in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, the church multiplied. Not respect. Not reverence. Fear — the full-body kind. And a Spirit who doesn't remove us from the uncomfortable thing, but comes alongside us in it.Scripture: Acts 9:26-31Preached by Jim Essian at The Paradox Church in Fort Worth, TX—We saturate Fort Worth with the glory and grace of Jesus, even unto the nations — by praying heaven down, preaching the gospel, planting churches, and pushing back darkness.

You can build a church in America with a gifted communicator, good music, and a growing neighborhood. You don't need the Holy Spirit for that. But you cannot multiply without him. In week three of our Multiplying Church series, Pastor Jim Essian teaches from Acts 9:26-31 on how a church actually multiplies — and shares a major announcement about the future of The Paradox Church. When Saul arrived in Jerusalem, the disciples were afraid of him. It took Barnabas, the son of encouragement, vouching for the church's former greatest enemy. Churches that multiply are filled with people who remember their own story of redemptive grace — who know they needed it too. Luke gives us the formula in verse 31: walking in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, the church multiplied. Not respect. Not reverence. Fear — the full-body kind. And a Spirit who doesn't remove us from the uncomfortable thing, but comes alongside us in it.Scripture: Acts 9:26-31Preached by Jim Essian at The Paradox Church in Fort Worth, TX—We saturate Fort Worth with the glory and grace of Jesus, even unto the nations — by praying heaven down, preaching the gospel, planting churches, and pushing back darkness.

Title: Doing Missions by Being a Missionary! Scripture: Acts 21:8-16 Speaker: Dr Victor Borden Date: August 16, 2026

Speaker: Sarah Abone & Eve Ridgeway // Date: 16 August 2026 // Scripture: Acts 10

You can build a church in America with a gifted communicator, good music, and a growing neighborhood. You don't need the Holy Spirit for that. But you cannot multiply without him. In week three of our Multiplying Church series, Pastor Jim Essian teaches from Acts 9:26-31 on how a church actually multiplies — and shares a major announcement about the future of The Paradox Church. When Saul arrived in Jerusalem, the disciples were afraid of him. It took Barnabas, the son of encouragement, vouching for the church's former greatest enemy. Churches that multiply are filled with people who remember their own story of redemptive grace — who know they needed it too. Luke gives us the formula in verse 31: walking in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, the church multiplied. Not respect. Not reverence. Fear — the full-body kind. And a Spirit who doesn't remove us from the uncomfortable thing, but comes alongside us in it.Scripture: Acts 9:26-31Preached by Jim Essian at The Paradox Church in Fort Worth, TX—We saturate Fort Worth with the glory and grace of Jesus, even unto the nations — by praying heaven down, preaching the gospel, planting churches, and pushing back darkness.

Jesus, meet me in my fears and help me to walk in your holy, gentle boldness.Scripture: Acts 5:42Resource: Spirit-Led Heart: Living a life of love and faith without borders by Suzanne Eller 

Scripture: Acts 17:1-15Visit us at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://christchurchbham.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠or Connect with us on social:Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/christchurchbham/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/christchurchbham/

For our summer series we are back in our spiritual gifts series, "Empowered: Understanding & Exercising Spiritual Gifts." Part two of this series looks at each of the spiritual gifts, how God uses them today, and how we discern which gifts we've been given.This sermon explores the gifts of teaching and prophecy, a pair of gifts connected by the idea of sharing God's word with God's people.Scripture: Acts 13:1-3

Scripture: Acts 16:11-40Visit us at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://christchurchbham.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠or Connect with us on social:Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/christchurchbham/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/christchurchbham/

Every day we're surrounded by messages telling us we need more - more success, more possessions, more security, more recognition. But what if those messages are shaping our hearts more than we realize?In this message, as we continue our City on a Hill series, we'll look at Acts 2:42–47 and Matthew 6 to uncover three lies that consumer culture whispers and discover the freedom Jesus offers instead. We'll see that generosity isn't primarily about our wallets, it's about our identity. When Christ becomes our greatest treasure, we're freed to live with open hands, trusting our Father's provision and reflecting His generosity to the world.Join us as we discover what it means to shine as a city on a hill in a culture that's always asking us to want more.Scripture: Acts 2:42-47 ESV

Why does God make us wait?Whether you're waiting for healing, direction, a relationship, or God to answer your prayers, waiting can feel frustrating and even confusing. But throughout Scripture, we see that God never wastes a waiting season.In this message from Acts 7, Pastor Matt Shackelford continues the Dwell series by examining the life of Moses. Before God used Moses to deliver Israel, He first prepared him through years of waiting in the wilderness. The same God who worked in Moses' waiting room is still at work in ours.You'll discover: Why God often works while we wait  What Moses' life teaches us about trusting God's timing  How waiting prepares us for God's purposes  Why God's presence matters more than immediate answers  How Jesus meets us in seasons of uncertainty  What it means to trust God when life feels delayed Your waiting season isn't a detour. It may be the very place where God is preparing you for what's next.Scripture: Acts 7:17–43Series: DwellIf this message encouraged you, subscribe for more biblical teaching each week from Central Church.

"Has God Not Poured Out His Spirit? - Dreams, Visions & Prophecy in the Last Days"Scripture: Acts 2:17Messenger: Apostle Suzanne Howard

Speaker: Shirley Stackhouse // Date: 09 August 2026 // Scripture: Acts 16:11-15

The best evidence of your salvation is that the Holy Spirit lives in you, convicting and empowering you to live a holy life. Scripture: Acts 19:1-9. View accompanying video at https://fbcpville.org/sermons/acts-boldly-pt-14/

What do you do when life feels like you've been thrown into a pit?Whether it's betrayal, loss, disappointment, or suffering, every believer eventually walks through seasons they never would have chosen. The good news is that God doesn't wait for you to climb out before He comes near.In this message from Acts 7, Pastor Matt Shackelford continues the Dwell series by looking at the life of Joseph. Through betrayal, slavery, false accusations, and imprisonment, Joseph experienced God's faithful presence every step of the journey.You'll discover: Why every Christian experiences "pit" moments  How Joseph's story points us to Jesus  Why God's presence matters more than your circumstances  How suffering can become part of God's greater purpose  What God is producing in you through difficult seasons  Why your deepest pit is never beyond God's reach No matter what pit you find yourself in today, God has not abandoned you. His presence reaches farther than your pain.Scripture: Acts 7:9-16Series: DwellIf this message encouraged you, subscribe for more verse-by-verse Bible teaching from Central Church. 

Jesus didn't just save you from something, He saved you for something.In this message, "All In With the Mission," Pastor Carl Nichols walks through Acts 1:8 to answer three life changing questions:• Who are we? – A people on mission together.• Why are we here? – To help people live out their purpose in Jesus Christ.• How do we do it? – Through the power of the Holy Spirit.The Gospel was never meant to stop with us. Every believer has been called, empowered, and sent to reach others with the hope of Jesus.Key Takeaways:Found people find people.Helped people help people.Changed people help change people.People are the mission. Jesus is the answer. Our response is YES.No matter where God has placed you—your home, workplace, school, or community—your "Jerusalem" is your starting point, not your destination.If this message encouraged you, be sure to Like, Subscribe, and Share it with someone who needs to be reminded that God has a purpose for their life.Scripture:

July 8, 2026 - Wednesday Bible Class In this episode Caden walks through the life of Timothy in the New Testament, using his story as a roadmap for how families, mentors, and congregations can develop faithful, effective servants of Christ. Caden outlines four main points — Timothy's upbringing, personality, reputation, and defining traits — and draws connections between biblical examples and practical church life. The episode examines Timothy's spiritual foundation: the influence of his mother Eunice and grandmother Lois, his early acquaintance with Scripture (Acts 16; 2 Timothy 1:5; 3:14–15), and a recent Pew Research study about how household religious practice affects retention. The host stresses the central role of the home in training young people and offers concrete ideas for building a child's faith (attendance, family Bible study, visible example, church involvement). Mentorship is a key theme. The speaker explores Paul's investment in Timothy (Titus 2; Philippians; 1 Corinthians) and the importance of both receiving and giving mentorship. Passages such as Proverbs 1 and 1 Timothy 4 are used to encourage younger and newer Christians to accept teaching, grow in knowledge, and set a godly example in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity. Timothy's personality — commonly understood as timid or shy — is discussed candidly. The class reviews verses that show Paul encouraging Timothy (1 Corinthians 16; 1 Timothy 4; 2 Timothy 1:6–7) and highlights how Timothy overcame fear and insecurity through obedience, faithfulness, and willingness to step outside his comfort zone. Reputation and dependability are analyzed through examples in Acts and Paul's letters. Timothy was well spoken of in Lystra and Iconium, trusted to check on churches and to teach correctly (Acts 16; Philippians 2; 1 Thessalonians; 1 Timothy). The speaker emphasizes how consistent, humble choices build a reputation that opens doors for service. Concrete traits from Timothy's life — devotion to Scripture, faithfulness, selflessness (including his willingness to be circumcised to reach Jews), and sacrificial service — are highlighted as patterns worth imitating. The lesson closes with practical takeaways for listeners: invest in children's spiritual foundations, mentor the young and new, don't let personality or fear prevent service, guard your reputation, remain devoted to study and growth, and live selflessly as Jesus taught (Matthew 16:24). The episode is carried out as an interactive teaching session with audience participation and Q&A moments; there are no external guests. Listeners can expect Scripture-based exposition, real-life examples, statistics to frame the issue, and actionable steps for families and church members who want to raise and mentor the next generation of faithful Christians. Duration 44:46

6-ST 08-02-2026AM - Series: TBC New Member Welcome - Title: What We Do When We Meet Together, part 1 - Scripture: Acts 2:41-47

Speaker: Etiene Etekudoh // Date: Sunday 2 August 2026 // Scripture: Acts 16:16-40

Speaker: Paul Whitman // Date: Sunday 2 August 2026 // Scripture: Acts 9:10-19

Scripture: Acts 4:23-35Sermon Series: Summer Mix Tape #10Sermon Discussion Guide:https://drive.google.com/file/d/1KUR9CEvkTxyGYs4wYSyGzMtL-XOXlGLA/viewSermon Notes:https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/43173/note-272172.html

This week at our Jackson Campus,  Campus Pastor Mitch Johnson continues our new short sermon series, Heroes—a journey through the lives of faithful men and women from Scripture and church history whose examples ultimately point us to the true Hero, Jesus Christ.We pray this message is a blessing to you.For more information about The Point Church, visit us online at www.tothepoint.church.Scripture:  Acts 7:54-60Takeaway: Be Faithful

This week at our Perdido Key Campus, our West region catalyst for the Florida Baptist Convention, Dr. Brian Nall, continues our new short sermon series, Heroes—a journey through the lives of faithful men and women from Scripture and church history whose examples ultimately point us to the true Hero, Jesus Christ.We pray this message is a blessing to you.For more information about The Point Church, visit us online at www.tothepoint.church.Scripture: Acts 6:5-10

For our summer series we are back in our spiritual gifts series, "Empowered: Understanding & Exercising Spiritual Gifts." Part two of this series looks at each of the spiritual gifts, how God uses them today, and how we discern which gifts we've been given.This fifth sermon in the series explores the gifts of faith and martyrdom and talks about why belief is not a sufficient synonym for faith.Scripture: Acts 7:54-8:4

Have you ever felt like God was far away?Whether you're walking through suffering, uncertainty, or simply feel spiritually dry, it's easy to wonder where God is. But throughout Scripture, we see the opposite of what we often assume: God is the One who moves toward us.In this message from Acts 7, Pastor Matt Shackelford begins the Dwell series by exploring Stephen's sermon and the story of Abraham. Long before Abraham sought God, God sought Abraham. The same God who called Abraham still pursues people today through Jesus Christ.You'll discover: Why God's presence isn't limited by a place  How Abraham's story points to God's pursuit of His people  Why God always makes the first move  What it means to live by faith instead of sight  How Stephen's message points us to Jesus  Why you can trust God even when His plan isn't fully visible  How Jesus makes it possible for us to dwell in God's presence forever No matter how far away you may feel, God's presence goes farther.Scripture: Acts 7:1-8Series: DwellIf this message encouraged you, subscribe for more biblical teaching each week from Central Church.

Speaker: Mark Pallant // Date: Sunday 26 July 2026 // Scripture: Acts 8

Be The Church FOR Everybody | Have you ever felt like church wasn't meant for people like you? Maybe it seemed confusing, exclusive, or designed for people who already had everything figured out. But what if Jesus intended something different?In this message, we explore a truth that has shaped Journey Church from the very beginning: the church isn't just for church people. The church is FOR everybody.When the early church began making faith complicated, the leaders gathered to answer a critical question: Should people have to jump through religious hoops to come to God? Their answer changed everything—and it's still changing lives today.You'll discover:• Why Jesus came for everybody, not just religious people• How churches can unintentionally make faith harder than Jesus did• What Acts 15 teaches about removing barriers to God• Why the local church should feel like a safe place to explore faith• How one invitation can change someone's life forever• What it means to help people take their first steps toward JesusToo often, people feel like they're standing at the bottom of a ladder with no way to climb. They want hope. They want purpose. They want to know if God is real and if He cares. But somewhere along the way, religion made it seem more complicated than Jesus intended.The good news is that Jesus didn't come for insiders. He came for everybody.Whether you've been following Jesus for years or you're still asking questions about faith, this message is a reminder that God's grace is available to you—and that the church should be a place where anyone can belong before they believe.Because everybody matters to God, whether God matters to them or not.

For our summer series we are back in our spiritual gifts series, "Empowered: Understanding & Exercising Spiritual Gifts." Part two of this series is looking at each of the spiritual gifts, how God uses them today, and how we discern which gifts we've been given.This fourth sermon in the series looks at some gifts that are tied together by the way God uses words to bless the recipients and why "sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me" is bad wisdom to pass on to our kids.Scripture: Acts 9:20-30, Acts 11:22-26

Scripture: Acts 15:36-16:10Visit us at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://christchurchbham.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠or Connect with us on social:Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/christchurchbham/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/christchurchbham/

Why is it so difficult to build meaningful friendships—and what does the Bible say real friendship should look like?In this message, we explore a surprising picture of friendship found in the early church and consider what may be keeping us from the relationships we desire.Scripture: Acts 2:41–42; Galatians 5:22–23 CSB

During Missions Month, Pastor CJ shares a message from Acts 17 titled “The Heart of a Man on Mission.”When Paul arrived in Athens, he was deeply troubled by the idolatry and spiritual lostness he saw throughout the city. But Paul did more than notice the problem—because he cared, he acted. He entered the synagogue, went into the marketplace, and shared the gospel with the people around him.A life on mission begins when what breaks God's heart begins to break ours. God is calling us to open our eyes to the people around us, resist complacency, and courageously share the hope of Jesus.You won't be on mission if you don't care. Because Paul cared, he went.

n this week's message, Pastor Jeanette teaches from Acts 8:26–40, the story of Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch. This powerful passage reminds us that God pursues every person, removes every barrier through Jesus Christ, and calls all people home. Through this story, we see God's heart for redemption. The Ethiopian eunuch was a person of influence, dignity, and deep spiritual hunger, yet he was also someone who had been kept at a distance. But on a desert road, God sent Philip to walk alongside him, open the Scriptures, point him to Jesus, and welcome him through baptism. The result was joy, belonging, and a witness sent home to the nations. As part of our Summer Reading series, this message invites us to see redemption not just as an idea, but as God's active pursuit of people. God is still at work beyond our familiar circles, still preparing hearts, and still sending ordinary believers to share the good news of Jesus with humility, courage, and love. Scripture: Acts 8:26–40 Speaker: Pastor Jeanette Message Title: God Calls All People Home Date: July 12, 2026 Grace Chapel is a non-denominational Christian church in the Greater Boston area. Learn more at grace.org. #GraceChapel #PastorJeanette #Acts8 #PhilipAndTheEthiopianEunuch #ChristianSermon #OnlineWorship #Jesus #Redemption #Faith #BibleTeaching

For our summer series we are back in our spiritual gifts series, "Empowered: Understanding & Exercising Spiritual Gifts." Part two of this series is looking at each of the spiritual gifts, how God uses them today, and how we discern which gifts we've been given.This sermon looks at two gifts that flow out of a heart for those in need, the gifts of mercy and intercession, along with a reminder that our spiritual gifts do not define our identity.Scripture: Acts 9:32-43

Scripture: Acts 15:1-35Visit us at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://christchurchbham.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠or Connect with us on social:Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/christchurchbham/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/christchurchbham/

July 12th | Dream Disciple | Acts 2:42-47; Matthew 7:24-27In week three of the Dream Disciple series, Pastor Matt Darby explores what it means to be a Bible Open disciple—someone whose life is firmly grounded in the truth of God's Word. Looking at Acts 2:42–47 and Matthew 7:24–27, we see that from the very beginning, followers of Jesus devoted themselves to Scripture, allowing it to shape every part of their lives.Jesus teaches that everyone is building their life on a foundation. The question isn't whether storms will come—they will. The question is whether our lives are built on the solid rock of God's Word or the shifting sand of comfort, culture, and personal preference. Through the parable of the wise and foolish builders, Pastor Matt reminds us that disciples don't merely hear God's Word—they obey it.Discover why the Bible is God's authoritative, life-giving, and unchanging truth, how it equips believers to stand firm through life's storms, and why building your life on Scripture is the only foundation that will endure both the trials of today and the judgment to come.Scripture: Acts 2:42–47; Matthew 7:24–27Do you know JESUS? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nbgilmer.org/do-you-know-jesus⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Need PRAYER? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nbgilmer.org/pray⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Support through GIVING: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nbbctx.org/giving⁠ 

For our summer series we are back in our spiritual gifts series, "Empowered: Understanding & Exercising Spiritual Gifts." Part two of this series is looking at each of the spiritual gifts, how God uses them today, and how we discern which gifts we've been given.This sermon looks at the gifts of helps and hospitality, which we believe is the key to the spread of the gospel in our day.Scripture: Acts 16:11-15

In Acts 16:25–40, Paul and Silas remain faithful to God while imprisoned in Philippi. As they pray and sing hymns in the middle of the night, God shakes the prison, opens the doors, and uses their faithfulness to bring the jailer and his household face-to-face with the gospel.This passage reminds us that true freedom does not come from our circumstances, government, strength, or possessions. True freedom comes from God and is available to everyone who believes in the Lord Jesus Christ.

Scripture: Acts 14:8-18Visit us at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://christchurchbham.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠or Connect with us on social:Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/christchurchbham/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/christchurchbham/

For our summer series we are back in our spiritual gifts series, "Empowered: Understanding & Exercising Spiritual Gifts." Part two of this series is looking at each of the spiritual gifts, how God uses them today, and how we discern which gifts we've been given.This sermon looks at the gifts of generosity and healing as well as the difference between spiritual gifts and common faithfulness.Scripture: Acts 3:1-10

We gather together, not only to learn more about Jesus, but also to become more like Jesus, just as the early believers did. Scripture: Acts 4:13-31

As the gospel advances, opposition often follows. In Acts 16:16–25a, Paul and Silas encounter spiritual darkness, false accusations, public hostility, physical suffering, and imprisonment. Yet even in the midst of suffering, they remain faithful—praying and singing hymns to God.This passage reminds us that gospel mission is not always easy, but God calls His people to faithful perseverance when resistance comes.

The crowd called Paul a god. Then they stoned him, dragged his body outside the city, and walked away. And just when that quiet ditch should have been the end of the story, Paul opened his eyes, pulled himself up out of the dirt, and walked right back through the same gates where the stones had flown.That is the anatomy of endurance.If you have been doing exactly what God called you to do and still taking hit after hit, this message from Acts 14 is your word for this season. Lead Pastor Talaat McNeely unpacks Paul and Barnabas in Lystra to reveal three of the most dangerous traps believers fall into when the pressure refuses to let up.In this episode, you will discover:✅ How we instinctively try to domesticate God's power the moment it disrupts our comfort, and exactly what that habit costs our faith.✅ Why the same crowd that drapes garlands around your neck on Tuesday will pick up stones by Friday the moment you refuse to perform for them.✅ Why endurance is never a solo mission and how the body of Christ is designed to lift you when you cannot lift yourself.A frictionless path creates a fragile faith. The Kingdom of God is not advanced by smooth roads. It is forged through unshakeable endurance.Scripture: Acts 14:8-20 (NLT)Series: Unstoppable: A Journey Through the Book of ActsPurpose City Church | Aurora, IllinoisIf this message hit home, share it with someone who needs to hear it this week. And subscribe so you never miss a word from the house.

Using holy imagination in our faith means our traditions should not bind us from serving God or restricting others in their service. Scripture: Acts 2:14-17 

Bishop Jim's insightful messages help others find THEIR METRON through M~otivation E~nlightenment T~ranscendence R~enewal O~utreach and N~etworking Learn more: www.bishinthenow.com Follow Jim Swilley on Youtube to see the videos live Sundays at 11:11 am – https://www.youtube.com/bishinthenow In this message, Bishop Jim Swilley launches a new series, Seated in Heavenly Places, exploring the idea that heaven is not merely a future destination but a present spiritual reality. Drawing from Ephesians 2, he challenges traditional concepts of striving for heaven and instead teaches that believers are already seated with Christ in higher dimensions of consciousness and awareness. He connects biblical concepts of joy, abundance, and spiritual maturity with ideas of vibration, authenticity, gratitude, and emotional well-being. The central theme is that fullness of joy is not dependent on circumstances but is a state of being that can be cultivated through gratitude, self-awareness, generosity, and living authentically. Key Takeaways 1. We Are Already Seated in Heavenly Places Bishop centers the teaching on Ephesians 2:4-6, emphasizing that believers are not trying to get to heaven someday but are already participating in heavenly realities now. Scripture: Ephesians 2:4-6 “And raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus.” He explains that sitting represents completion and rest rather than striving. Quote: “We’re not trying to get to heaven. We’re from heaven.” — Bishop Jim Swilley 2. Joy Is More Than Happiness The message distinguishes between temporary happiness and what Jesus described as “fullness of joy.” Scriptures: John 15:11 John 16:24 Nehemiah 8:10 Jesus repeatedly spoke of joy becoming “full,” which Bishop presents as a higher state of spiritual living rather than an occasional emotional experience. Quote: “There’s joy, and then there’s fullness of joy.” — Bishop Jim Swilley 3. Protect Your Joy One of the strongest practical applications is the idea that people must become guardians of their own joy. Rather than allowing circumstances, old wounds, or difficult people to dictate emotional states, Bishop encourages listeners to consciously maintain a higher perspective. Quote: “If there’s things in your life that are draining your joy, either have the courage to get rid of it, get it out of your life, or change the way you think about it.” — Bishop Jim Swilley 4. Heaven and Hell Are Present Experiences Rather than viewing heaven and hell exclusively as future destinations, Bishop presents them as realities experienced in daily life. Quote: “Some of y’all ain’t scared of going to hell because you already been to hell.” — Bishop Jim Swilley He describes “streets of gold” as a metaphor for abundance, peace, and living from a consciousness of provision rather than lack. 5. Gratitude Raises Your Awareness A recurring theme is that gratitude shifts perception and opens people to greater joy. Scripture: Psalms 100:4 “Enter his gates with thanksgiving.” Bishop suggests that gratitude should not wait for favorable circumstances but become a daily practice. Quote: “Why can’t you just be happy that you woke up this morning?” — Bishop Jim Swilley 6. Generosity Creates Joy One of the most powerful personal stories in the message involved Bishop blessing a healthcare worker who had helped him. The lesson was that giving often produces more joy in the giver than receiving does. Scripture: Acts 20:35 “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” Quote: “I was so much happier about that than if somebody had given me a hundred dollars.” — Bishop Jim Swilley 7. Authenticity Is Essential Bishop teaches that authentic living is directly connected to joy and emotional health. When people hide behind roles, expectations, or false identities, they disconnect from the fullness of who they are. Quote: “You’re never going to have fullness of joy when you’re frontin’.” — Bishop Jim Swilley 8. Your Narrative Shapes Your Reality A major practical takeaway is the importance of refusing to continually revisit old wounds and painful stories. While healing requires processing the past, growth requires eventually creating a new narrative. Scripture: Philippians 3:13 “Forgetting those things which are behind.” Quote: “You already dealt with this. That’s done. I’m not doing time travel backwards and bringing up old stuff.” — Bishop Jim Swilley Main Scripture Focus: Ephesians 2:4-6 “And raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus.” This passage serves as the foundation for the entire series, framing heavenly living as a present reality characterized by joy, abundance, peace, gratitude, and spiritual awareness rather than merely a future hope. Memorable Quote “When you learn to get your joy up there and walk in the fullness of joy, you have to get real protective of it.” — Bishop Jim Swilley

2026-06-07-1030 Pastor Loran Livingston is the speaker this morning, June 7, 2026, in the 10:30 am service.   Scripture: Acts 9:31, Philippians 2:12, 2 Corinthians 7:1, Romans 3:9–18 Notes: -The thought of sin and the judgment of God should make you tremble, says Pastor Livingston. -Then you will learn what will break His heart, and what it means to be saved. -One day, you will stand before the Judge of all the earth for scrutiny of all you've done. -Are you ready?

2026-06-07-0830 Pastor Loran Livingston is the speaker this morning, June 7, 2026, in the 8:30 am service.   Scripture: Acts 9:31, Philippians 2:12, 2 Corinthians 7:1, Romans 3:9–18 Notes: -The thought of sin and the judgment of God should make you tremble, says Pastor Livingston. -Then you will learn what will break His heart, and what it means to be saved. -One day, you will stand before the Judge of all the earth for scrutiny of all you've done. -Are you ready?

SCRIPTURE- Acts 1:8"But you will receive power when the holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, throughout Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." REFLECTION- Sr. KaraMUSIC- Send Us Your Spirit by Dan Schutte and friendsNOTES-PRAYER OF LETTING GOTo You do I belong, O God, into Your hands I surrender my life. Pour out Your Spirit upon me that I may love You perfectly, and serve You faithfully until my soul rests in You.