Podcasts about scripture acts

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.

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

God has called every believer to speak the word with boldness, respect, conviction, and cultural context. Scripture: Acts 17:22-34. View accompanying video at https://fbcpville.org/sermons/acts-boldly-pt-11/

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.

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 

He thought he was serving God... until Jesus stopped him. What if your greatest passion was actually keeping you from the truth? In Acts 9, we uncover the dramatic moment when Saul's religious zeal collided with the risen Christ—and everything changed.Saul believed he was protecting God's honor, but his devotion had become a destructive feedback loop that blinded him to the very Messiah he claimed to serve. In this message, we'll examine how Jesus interrupted Saul's violent path, exposed the danger of misplaced religious zeal, and transformed Christianity's greatest enemy into one of its greatest missionaries.Discover why people resist truth, how pride can disguise itself as faithfulness, the courage of Ananias, the encouragement of Barnabas, and why God often uses seasons of crisis to prepare us for His greatest purposes.If you've ever wondered whether God can redeem a painful past, break destructive patterns, or completely transform a life that seems beyond hope, Saul's story proves that no one is beyond the reach of God's grace.Whether you're studying Acts chapter 9, learning about the Apostle Paul, or seeking a deeper understanding of genuine repentance and spiritual transformation, this Bible study will encourage and challenge your walk with Christ.

Your greatest ministry may not happen inside the church. It may happen inside your home.In Acts 10, Cornelius shows us that one person pursuing God can influence an entire family. Before Peter preached the gospel, Cornelius had already built a home that feared God. His faith didn't stay personal. It became contagious.In this message you'll discover:• How to lead your family by pursuing God first• Why healthy homes revolve around God's Word, not personalities• How to intentionally gather your family around Christ• Why you should never stop believing God can save your loved onesMain Point:Faith that changes your home begins with a heart that pursues God.Scripture: Acts 10:1-48If this message encouraged you, like, subscribe, and share it with someone who wants to see their faith go beyond the walls.#Acts10 #FaithAtHome #ChristianFamily #BeyondTheseWalls #BibleSermon #PastorRobbey

When we observe the idolatry in this world, it should provoke jealousy in us for the one true God and compassion for the lost. Scripture: Acts 17:16-21. View accompanying video at https://fbcpville.org/sermons/acts-boldly-pt-10/

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/

God has called every believer to know His word with eagerness and to endure the world's rejection as we actively show them Christ's love. Scripture: Acts 17:1-17. View accompanying video at https://fbcpville.org/sermons/acts-boldly-pt-9/

Scripture: Acts 4:32 - 5:11Sermon Series: Summer Mix Tape #6Sermon Discussion Guide:https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Wj6gqWRyyXz0ip96vRmesXWZgLe8Zlq2/viewSermon Notes:https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/43173/note-272172.html

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

Scripture: Acts 14:1-28Visit us at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://christchurchbham.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠or Connect with us on social:Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/christchurchbham/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/christchurchbham/

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 

In Acts 15:36–16:5, Paul and Barnabas prepare to return and strengthen the churches, but a sharp disagreement over John Mark leads them to separate. Even in this difficult moment, the mission of the gospel continues as Paul chooses Silas, Barnabas takes Mark, and Timothy joins the work.This passage reminds us that being on mission together does not mean we will never face conflict, make hard decisions, or sacrifice personal rights for the sake of others. Yet through it all, God continues to strengthen His church and grow His people.

Series: The Spirit's Mission to the World's EndSermon: Grace, Faith, & Christ Alone.Scripture: Acts 15:1-35Pastor: David Giese

Series: The Spirit's Mission to the World's EndSermon: Praise God! He Saves!Scripture: Acts 16:11-40Pastor: David Giese

Sermon of the week at Christian Renewal in Brunswick, GA.Speaker: Pastor Mark Anthony LintonMessage: Made For More: Do You Believe It?Scripture: Acts 13:52Date: 6/14/26INFO⁠⁠⁠https://www.christianrenewal.church⁠⁠⁠CONNECTFill out an online connect card: ⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/connect2crc​⁠⁠⁠GIVE ⁠⁠⁠https://christianrenewal.org/give⁠⁠⁠SOCIAL MEDIAhttps://www.facebook.com/christianrenewalhttps://www.instagram.com/christianrenewal

What happens when Jesus steps into the path of someone headed in the wrong direction? In Acts 9, we witness one of the most powerful transformations in Scripture as Saul, the church's fiercest persecutor, encounters Jesus on the road to Damascus and leaves forever changed.This message reminds us that radical change doesn't always begin in a church building. Sometimes it starts on an unexpected road, in the middle of brokenness, failure, or uncertainty. Jesus still interrupts destructive paths, exposes spiritual blindness, and rewrites the purpose of anyone willing to surrender to Him.In this sermon, we explore:* How God's interruptions are often acts of mercy, not punishment.* Why information without an encounter with Jesus can still leave us spiritually blind.* The obedience of Ananias and how one simple “yes” can impact generations.* How God's grace is greater than your past, your failures, or your mistakes.* Why no one is too far gone for the transforming power of Christ.No matter where you've been or what road you're on today, the same Jesus who met Saul is still calling people into new life. He still saves. He still heals. He still restores. And He still uses broken people for His glory.

Scripture: Acts 13:1-12Visit us at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://christchurchbham.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠or Connect with us on social:Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/christchurchbham/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/christchurchbham/

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

In Acts 15:36–16:5, Paul and Barnabas prepare to return and strengthen the churches, but a sharp disagreement over John Mark leads them to separate. Even in this difficult moment, the mission of the gospel continues as Paul chooses Silas, Barnabas takes Mark, and Timothy joins the work.This passage reminds us that being on mission together does not mean we will never face conflict, make hard decisions, or sacrifice personal rights for the sake of others. Yet through it all, God continues to strengthen His church and grow His people.

What does a life that truly reflects Jesus look like?In this message from our Everyday Heroes series, we look at the remarkable story of Tabitha, a woman whose faith was demonstrated through compassion, generosity, and service. Though she never held a platform, preached a sermon, or sought recognition, her impact was so profound that an entire community mourned her loss.Through the example of Jesus and the life of Tabitha, we'll discover that discipleship isn't about influence, titles, or popularity—it's about seeing people, serving people, and helping others experience the love of Christ.Join us as we explore what it means to be disciples who make disciples and how ordinary acts of faithfulness can create an extraordinary Kingdom impact.Scripture: Acts 9:36-42 Series: Everyday Heroes Church: ONE ChurchWhen we choose to see people the way Jesus sees them and serve them the way Jesus served, God can use our lives to make a difference far beyond what we could imagine.Support the show

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 12:1-25Visit us at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://christchurchbham.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠or Connect with us on social:Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/christchurchbham/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/christchurchbham/

What happens when God interrupts your plans?In Acts 8, we see the Gospel continue to spread despite persecution, opposition, and uncertainty. What looked like a setback for the early Church became a setup for God's purpose. As believers were scattered, the message of Jesus spread farther than ever before.Pastor Willie Simpson walks through the powerful stories of Simon the Sorcerer, Philip, and the Ethiopian eunuch, reminding us that God still changes lives, fills His people with His Spirit, and uses ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary things.In this message, you'll discover:• Why no one is beyond the reach of God's grace• The importance of being filled with the Holy Spirit• Why discipleship is essential for spiritual growth• How God uses available and obedient people• The power of pointing people to Jesus• Why every believer has a next stepNo matter where you find yourself today—needing change like Simon, searching like the Ethiopian eunuch, or being called to obedience like Philip—God wants to work in and through your life.

What happens when following Jesus puts a target on your back?In this sermon from Pastor Matt Shackelford, we continue our Growing Pains series through Acts and examine the life of Stephen, one of the most courageous believers in the New Testament. As pressure, opposition, and persecution close in around him, Stephen responds with remarkable faith, wisdom, and peace.Whether you're facing challenges at work, in your family, or in your faith, Stephen's example shows us how to remain Christlike when life gets difficult. Discover what it means to be filled with the Spirit, faithful under pressure, and fearless in the face of opposition.

Our faith is about relationships wherever we are - even, as Paul and Silas found, in a prison cell. But our suffering can be overshadowed by Christ, who promises to be there with us. Scripture: Acts 16:16-34

In this teaching, Pastor Dobbs ministers from Acts 1:4 & I Thessalonians 5:17 on being saved, waiting on the promise of the Father, praying despite distractions. Distractions will take a person from their set place but being saved requires that a believer pray so that they can refocus to fulfill the will of God despite the distractions going on in the world. Scripture: Acts 1: 4 “4 And being assembled together with them, He commanded them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the Promise of the Father, “which,” He said, “you have heard from Me; “ I Thessalonians 5:17 – pray without ceasing

In this teaching, Pastor Dobbs ministers from Acts 1:4 & I Thessalonians 5:17 on being saved, waiting on the promise of the Father, praying despite distractions. Distractions will take a person from their set place but being saved requires that a believer pray so that they can refocus to fulfill the will of God despite the distractions going on in the world. Scripture: Acts 1: 4 “4 And being assembled together with them, He commanded them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the Promise of the Father, “which,” He said, “you have heard from Me; “ I Thessalonians 5:17 – pray without ceasing Hit the notification bell so that you do not miss our most recent video. From your mobile device, to sow a financial seed into the ministry you may visit us at occvr.org and click the menu tab to locate the donate button. The donate button will provide two options for online giving. You may utilize “Text To Give” in which you will text “give” to the phone number 770-692-2225 to setup your monthly gift or one time financial gift. The additional method for online giving is simply click on the paypal “donate” button. Thanks to our generous partners in ministry, we are able to continue spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ with our local and foreign outreach ministries. For further information on Overcomers Christian Center including address, service times, and other information please visit occvr.org. Also you may visit us at the following: Facebook: @occvr Podcast: The Overcomers

In Acts 15:22–35, we see how the early church responded when conflict and confusion threatened unity among believers. Rather than allowing division to grow, the apostles, elders, and church leaders came together to seek God's wisdom, follow the leading of the Holy Spirit, and communicate their decisions clearly to the church.This passage provides a biblical model for addressing problems in a way that honors Christ and strengthens His people.

Scripture: Acts 2:41-47The Rev. Susan Gilpin preaches on a day when Kristen and Audrey Farnham also present on their recent trip to and work in Guatemala with From Houses to Homes. In Acts, as the early church begins to spread far and wide, it is the generosity of the Holy Spirit which marks them. Today, we are invited to consider how church might be the flower which goes to seed and spreads newness of life into the world… The post “Giving it All Away” – The Rev. Susan Gilpin appeared first on Foreside Community Church.

Send us Fan MailWhat does the Bible actually teach about signs and wonders, miracles, healing, and the power of the Holy Spirit?In Acts 5:12-16, we encounter one of the most remarkable snapshots of the early church. Miracles are happening. The sick are being healed. Demonic oppression is being broken. Crowds are gathering. Yet Luke's main emphasis isn't the miracles—it's that more and more people are being added to the Lord.In this message, Pastor Timothy Stewart explores the biblical concept of power evangelism and answers important questions such as:• Are signs and wonders still for today?• What is the purpose of miracles in the New Testament?• What does the Bible say about healing and deliverance?• How should Christians think about spiritual gifts?• What are the dangers of both skepticism and sensationalism?• Why did miracles often accompany gospel expansion in Acts?• How do holiness, hunger, and humility position believers to experience God's power?Drawing from Acts 5, church history, revival movements, and missionary accounts, this sermon presents a balanced biblical approach to the work of the Holy Spirit while keeping Jesus and the Gospel at the center.The greatest miracle isn't physical healing—it's the salvation of a soul.

What if work was never the thing to survive on the way to your real life — but the very medium through which you offer yourself to God?In the finale of our "Get(ing) Out of Work" series we consider a few of the ancient, yet ever new, practices that the church has used to help God's people stay in step with the Spirit during the daily rhythms of work and rest, rest and work. Drawing on Irenaeus and Hans Urs von Balthasar, the message recovers an old picture of the human being: not merely shaped clay, body and soul, but body and soul and spirit together — the complete person, bearing not just the image but the likeness of God (Genesis 1:26). To be spiritual is "by definition to be moved by the Spirit of the Logos," Christ our Beginning, our Salvation, our End.This reframes work entirely. With Dorothy Sayers, work is "not primarily a thing one does to live, but the thing one lives to do… the medium in which one offers oneself to God." We do not offer our work to God; following Paul in Romans 12, we offer our whole selves — as a living sacrifice — through it. So we stop striving to get out of work the identity, prosperity, and purpose it was never meant to supply, and instead receive from it the life we're made for: the good work God "got ready for us to do" (Ephesians 2:10).Then the practical question: how? The answer is ancient and unglamorous — habits. As Annie Dillard wrote, "How we spend our days is, of course, how we spend our lives… A schedule defends from chaos and whim. They are a net for catching days." Three habits to structure an ordinary day:Enter the day with the Lord's Prayer for Work — before the phone, before the lunches, perhaps before you're out of bed: "I give my whole self to you through the work you have given me this day."Recollect yourself midday with a centering prayer from Psalm 139 — breathing in, "I am…"; breathing out, "…still with you."Exit the day through the Examen — asking the Spirit where your work was out of step with Jesus, where it was in rhythm, and letting him lead you into rest.How we start matters. How we stay centered matters. And how we exit our labors into the rest of the night, made new, matters just as much.Reflection: Where was your work out of step with Jesus today, and where was it in rhythm with him?Scripture: Acts 2:1-3, 38-39 · Psalm 104:23-30 · Genesis 1:26 · Romans 12:1 · Ephesians 2:9-10 · 1 Thessalonians 5:23Voices/Quotes: Annie Dillard, The Writing Life · Dorothy Sayers · Tom Nelson, Work Matters · Irenaeus of Lyons · Hans Urs von BalthasarChrist City Church is a small faith family following Jesus together in east Dallas. We gather Sundays at 10:10 AM at 642 Brookhurst Dr., Dallas, TX 75218, in the chapel @ LHB.

How does faith change us over time?In Acts 10, Peter encounters a vision that challenges everything he thought he knew about who belongs, who is welcome, and how God works in the world. As he meets Cornelius—a Roman centurion and outsider to Israel's covenant story—the early church discovers that the Spirit of God is already moving beyond the boundaries they assumed were fixed.This message explores slippery slopes, spiritual growth, unexpected relationships, and the surprising truth that transformation is normal in the Christian life. What if the Spirit is at work in places, people, and experiences you never expected?

True spiritual authority isn't found in repeating the right words—it's found in knowing the right Person.“Uncovered & Exposed” walks through Acts 19:11–16 and the story of the seven sons of Sceva, revealing the difference between knowing about Jesus and truly knowing Him. This message challenges us to move beyond religious information and pursue intimate relationship with Christ. Kingdom authority isn't borrowed or performed—it flows from living under the covering of Jesus and walking in the power of the Holy Spirit.Scripture: Acts 19:11–16Speaker: Pastor Kyle HornerDid you make a decision to follow Christ today? We'd love to support you—email us at info@theconnectchurch.com.Learn more about The Connect Church and stay connected: https://linktr.ee/theconnectchurch

Scripture: Acts 2:14-21Message: This Is ThatSpeaker: Pastor S.N. Winston, Jr.Date: May 24, 2026Thank you for your continued generosity. Tithes and offerings can be given electronically using:Givelify: Download the free Givelify App from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android)Cashapp: $mtcalmbc33Follow Mt Calvary Church on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mtcalvarynation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mtcalvarynationTwitter: https://www.twitter.com/mtcalvarynationAccess bible education and more exclusive content on the church's website: https://www.mtcalvarychurch.life

Spirit-filled Friendship | Acts 2:1–6Pentecost was not only the beginning of Spirit-filled power. It was also the beginning of Spirit-filled friendship.In this message, we look at Acts 2 and the powerful connection between the presence of God, the gathering of God's people, and the gifts of the Holy Spirit. The Spirit was poured out while the believers were gathered together in one place, reminding us that there is unique power, authority, and presence when God's people gather in His name.But Spirit-filled community is not the same as perfect community. The early church was filled with awe, generosity, prayer, fellowship, and miracles—but it also faced hypocrisy, division, tension, doctrinal disagreement, and relational conflict. The goal is not to return to an idealized innocence. The goal is to grow into Spirit-filled maturity.This message challenges the fantasy that real Christian community means no disappointment, no conflict, and no difficult people. Instead, Spirit-filled friendship gives us the grace to forgive, the courage to tell the truth, the humility to repent, and the power to keep loving.The death of idealized friendship is often the birth of Spirit-filled friendship.In this message: Why Pentecost reveals the power of gathering  How the Holy Spirit works through community  Why spiritual gifts are not for us, but through us for others  What Acts 2 teaches about healthy Christian fellowship  Why idealized community can destroy real community  How the Holy Spirit matures us through imperfect people  What it means to surrender fantasy and receive real friendship by grace If you have been hurt by church, disappointed in community, or tempted to isolate, this message is an invitation to be filled again with the Spirit and step into mature, grace-filled relationships.Scripture: Acts 2:1–6 Message Title: Spirit-filled Friendship Core theme: The death of idealized friendship is often the birth of Spirit-filled friendship

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.

What gives ordinary people the courage to speak truth, resist fear, and remain hopeful in a fractured world?In Acts 4 and 5, the early church faces its first wave of persecution after Peter and John heal a man at the temple gates and boldly proclaim the resurrection of Jesus. Confronted by powerful religious leaders, threatened, imprisoned, and punished, the apostles discover that true power is not found in coercion or control, but in resurrection, community, and the Spirit of God.In this sermon, Yelena explores:• Why the message of Jesus provoked opposition• What Acts teaches us about power and courage• How community helps us face fear• Why joy can still exist in suffering• What it means to live nonviolently and faithfully todayWhether you're wrestling with fear, longing for deeper community, or trying to live with integrity in a divided world, this conversation invites us to become people of courageous witness together.Scripture: Acts 4–5Commons ChurchLove God. Love People. Tell the Story. ★ Support this podcast ★

Scripture: Acts 1:4-14Message: Wait for the Promise Speaker: Pastor S.N. Winston, Jr.Date: May 17, 2026Thank you for your continued generosity. Tithes and offerings can be given electronically using:Givelify: Download the free Givelify App from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android)Cashapp: $mtcalmbc33Follow Mt Calvary Church on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mtcalvarynation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mtcalvarynationTwitter: https://www.twitter.com/mtcalvarynationAccess bible education and more exclusive content on the church's website: https://www.mtcalvarychurch.life

Send us Fan MailOne encounter with Jesus can change everything.Saul was a persecutor of Christians, convinced he was doing the right thing—until Jesus met him on the road to Damascus. What followed became one of the most powerful transformation stories in Scripture.In the final week of Encounter, we explore Acts 9 and discover that no person is too far gone, too broken, or too resistant for the grace of God.

The Church didn't begin with influence, buildings, or a perfect strategy. It began with a promise.In Week 1 of The Book of Acts, we explore how Jesus prepared ordinary people for an extraordinary mission. Why did Jesus tell the disciples to wait? What really happened at Pentecost? And what does the Holy Spirit have to do with our lives today?The same Spirit that empowered the early church still empowers believers today. We weren't called to sit still, we were empowered to go.Scripture: Acts 1:1–2:41

Jesus, help me to say goodbye to the old, and embrace the new.Scripture: Acts 21:5-6Keywords: Adventure; change; direction; purpose; destiny; faith.Best of, Summer.

Life is full of choices — and every choice you make is making you. On this Graduate Sunday, Pastor Dustin uses the dramatic story of Paul's shipwreck in Acts 27 to unpack what it really means to make wise decisions. Whether you're stepping into a new season or navigating the storms already around you, this message is for everyone. Three questions every skilled decision-maker must ask: WHERE are you placing yourself? The environments you choose today will shape the person you become tomorrow. WHO are you surrounding yourself with? Not everyone deserves a seat in your inner circle. Pastor Dustin breaks down five qualities to look for in the people closest to you. WHY are you doing what you do? If you don't decide what drives your life, something else will. The Holy Spirit — pneuma in Greek, meaning breath, wind, and movement — is available to lead you into purpose. As Joshua challenged a generation: "Choose this day whom you will serve." Because indecision is still a decision. Scripture: Acts 27:21-32 | Psalm 1:1 | Proverbs 27:6, 17 | Amos 3:3 | Romans 8:14 | Joshua 24:15