Podcasts about scripture ephesians

The fifth commandment is talking particularly to adult children. It says, “Honor thy father and thy mother.” What's intriguing about the Ten Commandments is they are a summary of everything human beings ought to be. Yet in all of the Ten Commandments, there's no place that talks about how people should relate to the government or to the people above them. It doesn't talk about authority except right here.  So let's look a little bit deeper and ask the commandment three questions: 1) what does this commandment tell us to do? 2) why should we do it? and 3) how can we do it? This sermon was preached by Dr. Timothy Keller at Redeemer Presbyterian Church on November 12, 1989. Series: Ten Commandments 1989. Scripture: Ephesians 6:1-4. Today's podcast is brought to you by Gospel in Life, the site for all sermons, books, study guides and resources from Timothy Keller and Redeemer Presbyterian Church. If you've enjoyed listening to this podcast and would like to support the ongoing efforts of this ministry, you can do so by visiting https://gospelinlife.com/give and making a one-time or recurring donation.

What does it really mean to live a blessed life?As we begin 2026, we're launching a new teaching series called The Blessed Life, walking verse by verse through the book of Ephesians. In this opening message, we look at Ephesians 1:1–3 and discover that biblical blessing is not something we achieve, it's something we receive in Christ.The Apostle Paul writes to a culture obsessed with success, power, and prosperity, and redefines blessing as a present spiritual reality rooted in our identity in Jesus. God is the source of blessing. Jesus is the access point. The Holy Spirit supplies the life we were always meant to live.Whether you're new to church or have followed Jesus for years, this message invites you to slow down, rethink what blessing truly means, and anchor your life in what can never be taken away.Subscribe to stay connected as we journey through Ephesians together.Key Takeaways:The blessed life is received, not achievedGod is the source of every blessing, and Jesus is our access to themSpiritual blessings are unshakable, unlike circumstantial or material onesOur identity in Christ shapes how we face everyday lifeResources MentionedThe Blessed Life Reading Plan (print & digital)Scripture: Ephesians 1:1–3Church ConnectionsWebsite: https://www.2riverschurch.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/2RiversChurchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/2riverschurch#2RiversChurch #jesusistheleadstory #theblessedlifeseries #identityinChrist #fathersonholyspirit

Adoption: Neither Rejection Nor Abandonment Could Stop God’s Adoption Plan Introduction The Lies We've Let Ourselves Believe The Phrases of Abandonment and Rejection i.      “I’m not good enough and I need to be perfect or successful to be worthy of love.” ii.      “Everyone secretly hates me and no one wants me around.” iii.      “My emotions are too big to control, so I’m consumed by my anger and rage.” iv.      “I should feel shame and fear [about my life or life experiences].” v.      “I need to medicate the deep internal isolation/rejection I feel with [a physical stimulus].” vi.      “I have no worth beyond what I can provide.” vii.      “I’m a victim to circumstances I can’t escape.” viii.      “I cannot find rest in this world.” ix.      “No one else will ever understand me or what I’m going through.” x.      “I’m in competition with other people; there’s not ‘enough’ for all of us.” What We Say About Ourselves Matters i.      Key Scripture: Proverbs 18:21 [MSG] ii.      There's an enemy on the prowl 1.      1 Peter 5:8 2.      John 10:10 iii.      There’s an enemy on the prowl; he is looking to steal, kill, and destroy, but he has no real power over you. His time and power are limited and he’s looking for you to let him in. Your words can be his way in. iv.      Book Recommendation: Uninvited: Living Loved When You Feel Less Than, Left out, and Lonely by Lysa Terkeurst v.      We have to confront the lies we have allowed ourselves to believe. Jesus did not redeem you so that you can still be stuck believing that your temporary circumstances still define who you are. BUT GOD! Key Scripture: Ephesians 1:5 The Details of Adoption i.      Greek word transliterated into “huiothesia.” ii.      Huiothesia is derived from two Greek words: “huios” meaning “son” and “tithemi” meaning “to place, put, or set.” iii.      Huiothesia literally translates to “placing as a son.” iv.      Additional Scriptures where huiothesia is used: Romans             8:15, Romans 8:23, Romans 9:4, Galatians 4:5 New Testament View on Adoption i.      Roman adoption was almost always something that happened to an adult, not a child Key point: You belonging, your adoption into a new family, was always the plan. Scripture vs. The Lies We Believe Lie: “I’m not good enough and I need to be perfect or successful to be worthy of love” i.      Scripture: Ephesians 2:10 ii.      Key point: You've already been called a masterpiece; the worth is already there. Lie: “Everyone secretly hates me and no one wants me around.” i.      Scripture: Psalm 139:14 ii.      Key point: How can someone shaped by God Himself not be wanted? This is a voice that’s meant to draw you into isolation, don’t follow it… Lie: “My emotions are too big to control, so I’m consumed by my anger and rage.” i.      Scriptures: Romans 12:21; Galatians 5:16, 19-21 ii.      Key point: Hey, all emotions are valid, all behavior is not. The Spirit of the LORD can and will help you not be consumed by your emotions. Lie: “I should feel shame and fear [about my life or life experiences]” i.      Scriptures: Romans 8:33-34; 2 Timothy 1:7 ii.      Key point: It’s okay to leave behind fear and shame. Lie: “I need to medicate the deep internal isolation/rejection I feel with [a physical stimulus].” i.      Scripture: Colossians 2:10 ii.      Key point: You can't find the healing and fulfillment you're craving anywhere else. Every “solution” will be temporary (yes, even healthy ones) when they’re not paired with Christ. When we draw near to God, He draws near to us and this is where healing actually begins. Lie: “I have no worth beyond what I can provide.” i.      Scripture: Romans 5:6-8(MSG) ii.      Key point: We, you and I both, had nothing to offer God. No skill, no talent, no resource, no activity He was interested in, no nothing. He thought and thinks you’re valuable in spite of that detail. We don’t need to beg for “scraps of His love” by presenting Him with our accomplishments, you already are loved and therefore have worth. Additionally, in relationships sometimes you will be the one giving help and other times you'll be the one receiving it, but both times you still have the same worth! Lie: “I’m a victim of circumstances I can’t escape.” i.      Scriptures: Psalm 71:20; 2 Corinthians 4:8-10 ii.      Key point: Your suffering hasn’t gone unnoticed and while it can fool you into believing there is no escape, you are not destroyed. Turn your eyes towards God who has created an escape for you, so that with Him you may be able to bear. Lie: “I cannot find rest in this world.” i.      Scriptures: Isaiah 40:30-31(NKJV); Matthew 11:28 ii.      Key point: I want to point out that to grow weary is not a fault of yours; it’s not some defect exclusive to you…it’s okay to be tired. Even the youths get tired, but here’s the Good News: the wait is over. There’s a lighter burden available, but we need to see it in the spiritual. However, there is a choice to be made: we must choose to come. Lie: “No one else will ever understand me or what I’m going through.” i.      Scriptures: Psalm 139:1-2; John 15:18; Hebrews 12:3 ii.      Key point: Please excuse my sense of humor, but you’re not that special…There’s nothing new under the sun (Ecc 1:9); suffering is not unique to you, it's the human condition. The LORD knows everything about you AND our suffering Savior knows exactly how you feel. You’re not crying out to someone who isn’t empathetic. His innocence met hostility and mistreatment, it’s not an experience unique to you…let Him comfort you. Lie: “I’m in competition with other people; there’s not ‘enough’ for all of us.” i.      Key point: Maybe this isn’t one you’ve said out loud or even admitted to yourself, but I wonder if it has shown up in your behavior. Desperate for acceptance and successful relationships we begin to act out of scarcity. Seeing the success of others begins to make you feel like there’s now somehow less success available for you. The success of their relationship means there is now less opportunity for you. Now suddenly you’re in secret competition with the people you should be praying for. A scarcity mindset is unbelief and comparison kills joy. Be the best YOU because that's who God made you! ii.      Scripture: 1st the admonishment — James 3:14-15 iii.      Scripture: 2nd the truth – 2 Corinthians 9:8 iv.      Scripture: 3rd the requirement – Philippians 2:4 v.      There is a God who is big enough to see and provide for all of us and any statement otherwise is a lie from the pit of hell. Still Room for Improvement Key Scripture: Romans 8:1 Am I Part of the Problem? i.      Understanding your identity as a child of God doesn't mean you just become a perfect person. Wearing a Kingdom identity well requires us to do some work. ii.      An Illustration from King David 1.      Innocent David a.       Scriptures: 1 Samuel 18:28-29; 19:1-5, 9 2.      Not so innocent David a.       Scripture: 2 Samuel 12:1-9 3.      Two things can be true at once: 1) we can be innocent and be mistreated and 2) we can behave in ways that produce negative outcomes. We need to be aware of both. 4.      Trauma shaped identities can cause turmoil in our relationships and result in people not wanting to be around us. This is not persecution; it’s the direct consequence of our undesirable behavior. Fooled By Our Sin Nature i.      “God made me like this.” With love, He didn't. ii.      Scripture: Psalm 139:23-24 1.      God can (and will) reveal to us the parts of our identities that we have taken on that are not from Him. Sin has distorted our standard of right and wrong; this means it’s not safe for us to rely solely on our own thoughts. iii.      Scripture: 2 Corinthians 13:5 1.      Genuine faith should produce obedience and faith and obedience produces Christ-like behavior. 2.      We must repent, turn away from, and make amends when our behaviors cause harm or else we will never maintain and experience the fullness of relationship with others and this is a detriment to our spiritual family and our Kingdom assignment. Conclusion: Taking on a New Identity Key scripture: 2 Corinthians 5:17 i.      There is no need to identify ourselves by our hurts, struggles, or failures. There is a more important title for you: An heir to the Kingdom of God. Here’s another one: Beloved Child of God. ii.      It has always been God’s pIan to welcome you home to Him. Please put on and live out your proper identity, the Kingdom needs its workers. Closing Scripture: John 1:12-13

Scripture: Ephesians 3:14-21Message from Debbie MitchellFor more resources and access to everything we have going on at First, visit https://www.firstabq.org

Pastor Todd shares Friday's devotional podcast from Bible Fellowship Church. [Scripture: Ephesians 4:26]

Pastor Todd shares Fridya's devotional podcast from Bible Fellowship Church. [Scripture: Ephesians 4:25]

Pastor Todd shares Friday's devotional podcast from Bible Fellowship Church. [Scripture: Ephesians 4:17-24]

Pastor Todd shares Friday's devotional podcast from Bible Fellowship Church. [Scripture: Ephesians 4:11-15]

Mary and Joseph's Journey to Bethlehem, with Rev. Dr. Steven Koski. Series: Journeys Through Advent A Spacious Christianity, First Presbyterian Church of Bend, Oregon. Scripture: Ephesians 3.20.Curious about hope and finding meaning in life's messiness? Join us this Sunday, online or in-person. As we start the Advent season, we will explore Mary and Joseph's journey to Bethlehem, and what it means for us today. Everyone is welcome.Join us each Sunday, 10AM at bendfp.org, or 11AM KTVZ-CW Channel 612/12 in Bend.  Subscribe/Follow, and click the bell for alerts.At First Presbyterian, you will meet people at many different places theologically and spiritually. And we love it that way. We want to be a place where our diversity brings us together and where conversation takes us all deeper in our understanding of God.We call this kind of faith “Spacious Christianity.” We don't ask anyone to sign creeds or statements of belief. The life of faith is about a way of being in the world and a faith that shows itself in love.Thank you for your support of the mission of the First Presbyterian Church of Bend. Visit https://bendfp.org/giving/ for more information.Keywords:mary, joseph, weariness, night, child, candles, weary, journey, hope, advent season, bethlehem, world, god, sleep, spacious, birth, weary world rejoices, fear, christmas, trudge, presbyterian, church, online worship, bend, oregonFeaturing:Rev. Dr. Steven Koski, Rev. Sharon Edwards, Becca Ellis, Brave of Heart, GuestsSupport the show

I've seen the pendulum in the church swing to extreme places over spiritual gifts—sometimes giving obsessive focus to them, and sometimes ignoring them. There's nothing more practical for helping us avoid extremes and understand what a Christian church should actually look like than to embrace what the Bible gives us here, a theology of spiritual gifts. Let's ask three questions of this text: 1) what are spiritual gifts, 2) what are the practical implications for church life, and 3) how can we rightly use spiritual gifts? This sermon was preached by Dr. Timothy Keller at Redeemer Presbyterian Church on August 29, 2010. Series: The Holy Spirit. Scripture: Ephesians 4:1-13. Today's podcast is brought to you by Gospel in Life, the site for all sermons, books, study guides and resources from Timothy Keller and Redeemer Presbyterian Church. If you've enjoyed listening to this podcast and would like to support the ongoing efforts of this ministry, you can do so by visiting https://gospelinlife.com/give and making a one-time or recurring donation.

Paul commands us to be filled with the Spirit.  Paul doesn't say, “It would be a great thing to attain if you could. Try really hard.” No, he commands that we “be filled with the Spirit.”  Let's ask this short text three questions: 1) what is being filled with the Spirit? 2) how do we know if we are filled with the Spirit? and 3) how can we become filled with the Spirit? This sermon was preached by Dr. Timothy Keller at Redeemer Presbyterian Church on August 22, 2010. Series: The Holy Spirit. Scripture: Ephesians 5:15-21. Today's podcast is brought to you by Gospel in Life, the site for all sermons, books, study guides and resources from Timothy Keller and Redeemer Presbyterian Church. If you've enjoyed listening to this podcast and would like to support the ongoing efforts of this ministry, you can do so by visiting https://gospelinlife.com/give and making a one-time or recurring donation.

Scripture: Ephesians

Pastor Todd shares Friday's devotional podcast from Bible Fellowship Church. [Scripture: Ephesians 4:4-8]

Scripture: Ephesians 4:1-16

There couldn't be a more relevant topic than faithfulness—a word that means honesty, integrity, and truthfulness. Americans' trust of their institutions—business, government, church—is at an all-time low. All the studies show that. There's a sense that there has been a failure of integrity in our society at all levels. Therefore, what does the Bible have to say about this all-important subject?  Ephesians 4 shows us 1) there's a problem of practicing truthfulness, 2) there's a problem of abusing people with the truth, and 3) how we solve both problems.  This sermon was preached by Dr. Timothy Keller at Redeemer Presbyterian Church on May 16, 2010. Series: The Real Signs of the Spirit. Scripture: Ephesians 4:15-16; 25-30. Today's podcast is brought to you by Gospel in Life, the site for all sermons, books, study guides and resources from Timothy Keller and Redeemer Presbyterian Church. If you've enjoyed listening to this podcast and would like to support the ongoing efforts of this ministry, you can do so by visiting https://gospelinlife.com/give and making a one-time or recurring donation.

SCRIPTURE- Ephesians 6:13"Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand."REFLECTION- Sr. KathleenMUSIC- "Aurora" by Gjeilo- "A Mighty Fortress Is Our God" by Tiffany Cardenas ZunigaNOTES- Click HERE for the article about St. Elizabeth of HungaryPRAYER 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. 

In this message, we explore one of the most misunderstood and transformative passages in Scripture: Ephesians 5–6. When Paul teaches believers to “submit to one another out of reverence for Christ,” he reveals a Gospel-centered blueprint for marriage, parenting, leadership, and everyday relationships. This teaching walks through how Jesus completely flips power dynamics, reshapes our view of authority, and calls both the strong and the weak into a new way of relating — a way modeled after His own humility and sacrificial love. You'll learn: • Why mutual submission was revolutionary in the ancient world • How the Gospel elevates your position before God and lowers your posture before others • What biblical submission actually is — and what it's not • How Christ-like love transforms marriages, families, and workplaces • Why humility and sacrifice create flourishing relationships Whether you're navigating marriage, parenting, friendships, or leadership, this message will challenge and encourage you to live out the Gospel in every relationship.

Life's battles can drain us, but Jesus reminds us of a deeper truth: he came so we might have life—and have it to the full. Spiritual tenacity means staying rooted in that promise, even when the thief tries to steal our joy, hope, or peace. Keep pressing into the rhythms of prayer, worship, and love. In Christ, we don't just survive; we thrive. If you are new to Community Church, WELCOME! We would love to get to know you. Please fill in the following form and we look forward to connecting with you: https://bit.ly/cc-new-connect You can find all timely and relevant links from this service on https://bit.ly/cc-links You can also find out more about us at https://communitychurch.hk/ ================ This Week's Scripture: // Ephesians 6:10-17 // The Armour of God Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armour of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armour of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled round your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

SCRIPTURE- Ephesians 3:17-19"[I pray] that you, rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the holy ones what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, so that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. "REFLECTION- JenMUSIC- "Praise God From Whom All Blessings Flow" by David Nevue- "Love One Another" by Bob DuffordNOTES-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.

Scripture: Ephesians 2:1-10 "The whole range of human miseries, from restlessness and estrangement through shame and guilt… to the agonies of daytime television—all of them tell us that things in human life are not as they ought to be." – Cornelius Plantinga + The default mode of humanity is dead, defiant, and doomed "Behold my heart, O God, behold my heart which you had pity upon in the bottom of the abyss. Now let my heart tell you what it was seeking there, that I should be gratuitously evil, having no inducement to evil but the evil itself. It was foul, and I loved it. I loved the evil in me—not that for which I was committing the evil, but the evil itself." – Augustine of Hippo "The thought is overwhelming, that soon this body of mine must be a carnival for worms; that in and out of these places, where my eyes are glistening, foul things, the offspring of loathsomeness, shall crawl; that this body must be stretched in still, cold, abject, passive, death. It must then become a noxious, nauseous thing, cast out even by those that loved me, who will say, 'Bury my dead out of my sight.' Now, endeavour, as well as you can, to get the idea of a dead corpse, and when you have so done, please to understand that that is the metaphor employed in my text, to set forth the condition of your soul by nature." – Charles Spurgeon + Salvation by grace through faith in Jesus Romans 5:12; 17 + Partner with God in Kingdom Expansion

“The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.” (John‬ ‭3‬:‭8‬ ‭ESV‬‬) Today, we consider the mystery of the Holy Spirit's work in the life of the Christian, with the relation to regeneration; and by extension our adoption as sons and daughters into the kingdom of Christ. Scripture:Ephesians 3: 14-19, Hebrews 11: 6, Hebrews 6: 17-20, James 2: 19, Ephesians 2: 8-10, Ephesians 1: 11-14, 1 Corinthians 2: 11-16, John 3: 16, John 3: 8, Jeremiah 31: 27-34PBHB GIVEAWAY: https://www.stayreformed.com/giveawayAdditional References:Buy A Puritan Catechism: ⁠https://a.co/d/esRURdt⁠Read A Puritan Catechism: ⁠https://www.chapellibrary.org/pdf/books/cwpr.pdf?srsltid=AfmBOop_iUZJzFz_3HbHFqJUqPMbSUhhfZUx9FY_-KuyKA9_kwqb8Kh6MLJ Sermon: https://www.mljtrust.org/sermons/book-of-ephesians/grounded-in-love/The Second London Baptist Confession (1689): https://founders.org/library-book/1689-confession/https://www.chapellibrary.org/pdf/books/lbcw.pdf?srsltid=AfmBOorAi1b6iCPqv94DjBcMhSSpcDOGwJrb9hXJSlgqxrFSgo9ofc0-Social Media:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@StayReformedTwitter/X: https://twitter.com/stayreformedInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/stayreformed/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stayreformedpodcast/Website: https://www.stayreformed.com/Email: contact@stayreformed.com

Scripture: Ephesians 1:4, John 1:12, Romans 8:37, The Pulse ExperienceA Network That Beats To The Heart Of GodTopic: The Names That God Calls Me: Podcast-Days 1-7Speaker: John FowlerMonday, November 10, 2025https://linktr.ee/thepulsewvOrder Your Copy Of "The Names God Calls Me" On My Website.Website: johnfowler.org

Scripture: Ephesians 1:4, John 1:12, Romans 8:37, The Pulse ExperienceA Network That Beats To The Heart Of GodSermon: The Names That God Calls Me: Days 1-7Speaker: John FowlerSunday, November 9, 2025https://linktr.ee/thepulsewvOrder Your Copy Of "The Names God Calls Me" On My Website.Website: johnfowler.org

The Helmet of Salvation Series: Suited Up - The Armor of God (Week 6 of 7) Scripture: Ephesians 6:17a Summary In Roman warfare, the helmet was critical. A soldier could survive wounds to his body, but a blow to the head could be fatal—causing instant death, unconsciousness, or disorientation that left him completely vulnerable. The Roman helmet protected the skull, temples, neck, and cheeks from sword strikes, arrows, and blunt force. Paul uses this image for salvation because salvation protects your mind—your thoughts, your thinking patterns, your understanding of reality. The enemy knows that if he can control your mind, he controls everything. Your mind determines how you interpret circumstances, respond to attacks, believe about God, believe about yourself, and whether you stand firm or fall. Key Points: 1. Salvation Gives You Assurance That Protects Your Mind The first way salvation functions as a helmet is by providing assurance—settled confidence that you belong to God. Without assurance, your mind is under constant attack. Every sin makes you question if you're really saved. Every struggle makes you doubt God's acceptance. Every failure makes you wonder if you've lost salvation. That mental instability is exactly what the enemy wants. If he can keep you uncertain about your salvation, you'll never have confidence in spiritual warfare. But salvation—properly understood—provides unshakeable assurance that protects your mind. 1 John 5:13 says, "These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may KNOW that you have eternal life." Not hope. Not wonder. Not maybe. KNOW. How the helmet of assurance protects: When you sin: "I am saved by grace through faith. My salvation isn't based on sinless perfection but on His finished work" When you struggle: "All Christians struggle with sin. I hate my sin and fight it—that's evidence OF salvation, not against it" When you feel distant: "My feelings don't determine my standing. Nothing can separate me from God's love" This assurance rests on three foundations: God's promise (John 3:16), Christ's finished work (John 19:30), and the Spirit's witness (Romans 8:16). When your mind is protected by assurance of salvation, the enemy's accusations lose their power. He can't destabilize you with doubt because your confidence is anchored in unchanging truth. 2. Salvation Shapes Your Identity and Renews Your Thinking The helmet of salvation doesn't just protect—it transforms how you think. Romans 12:2 says, "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." The Greek word for "transformed" is metamorphoo—complete metamorphosis through renewing your mind. Salvation fundamentally changes how you think about: WHO YOU ARE (Your Identity) Before salvation, your identity was in your sin and failures. But salvation gives you a new identity in Christ: child of God (John 1:12), new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17), chosen and adopted (Ephesians 1:4-5), forgiven and justified (Romans 8:1). The enemy attacks your identity constantly: "You're defined by your worst moment. You're just a sinner. You're worthless." But the helmet protects by reshaping how you see yourself. You're not defined by your past—you're defined by Christ. HOW YOU THINK (Your Thought Patterns) Salvation doesn't just change your legal standing—it transforms thought patterns. Philippians 4:8 instructs us to meditate on things that are true, noble, just, pure, lovely, and of good report. Before salvation, our minds defaulted to fear, anxiety, lust, bitterness, pride. But salvation retrains our minds toward trust, gratitude, purity, forgiveness, humility, hope. 2 Corinthians 10:5 says, "Casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ." This is warfare language—there's a battle for your mind, and the helmet equips you to win by taking thoughts captive. WHAT YOU BELIEVE (Your Worldview) Salvation transforms your entire worldview. You begin seeing reality through Scripture's lens rather than through culture, feelings, or human reasoning. The enemy attacks your worldview, but the helmet anchors your thinking in biblical truth. 3. You Must Actively Guard Your Mind From Enemy Attacks Paul says "take the helmet of salvation"—that's active. You must put it on, keep it on, and guard what enters your mind. The enemy attacks your mind constantly because if he controls your thoughts, he controls your life. How to actively guard your mind: RECOGNIZE THE BATTLE - The enemy's primary battlefield is your thought life. Mental warfare looks like: obsessive thoughts (worry, lust, bitterness, fear), lies about God ("He doesn't care"), lies about yourself ("You're worthless"), lies about others ("They're against you"), lies about circumstances ("This is hopeless"). FILTER WHAT ENTERS - Proverbs 4:23 warns, "Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it spring the issues of life." What you allow into your mind shapes everything. Ask: What entertainment am I consuming? What social media? What conversations? What thoughts am I rehearsing? If you fill your mind with garbage, you'll think like the world. Colossians 3:2 commands, "Set your mind on things above." REPLACE LIES WITH TRUTH - When attacks hit, don't just resist—replace with truth. When fear assaults: "God has not given me a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind" (2 Timothy 1:7). When worthlessness attacks: "I am fearfully and wonderfully made" (Psalm 139:14). This is taking every thought captive. Jesus modeled this in Matthew 4, responding to Satan's lies with "It is written..." The Closing Illustration: During World War II, a soldier wounded in battle was plagued by PTSD. His mind couldn't accept that the battle was over. Every noise became enemy fire. Every shadow became a threat. He lived in constant mental torment, still fighting a war that had ended. A fellow soldier visited and said something that began to change everything: "The war is over. We won. You're safe now." That's what the helmet of salvation does for your mind. The enemy wants you to live as though the war isn't over—as though your salvation is still in question, your identity uncertain, your future at risk. But the helmet protects your mind with truth: The decisive battle has been won. Jesus defeated sin, death, and Satan at the cross. You are on the winning side. You are safe in Him. Your salvation is secure—not based on performance but on Christ's finished work. Your identity is settled—you are a child of God, a new creation. Your future is certain—nothing can separate you from His love. The war for your soul is over. Christ won. Now you fight from victory, not for victory. The Bottom Line: The helmet of salvation protects your mind by giving you assurance against doubt, shaping your identity and renewing your thinking, and equipping you to actively guard your thoughts. Your mind is the battlefield, but when you wear the helmet—confident in your assurance, grounded in your identity, actively guarding your thoughts—your mind is protected. The decisive victory has already been won. Next in Series: Week 7 (SERIES FINALE) - "The Sword of the Spirit and Prayer" (Ephesians 6:17b-18) Our offensive weapons in spiritual warfare—the conclusion of "Suited Up: The Armor of God"

Scripture: Ephesians 4:7-16

Scripture: Ephesians

Scripture: Ephesians 4:4-16

Are you living like the person God has called you to be? Pastor Stephen Mizell delivers a challenge about the gap between what we believe and how we live. Using Ephesians 4-5, he reminds us that real strength isn't proven by what you say you believe—it's proven by how you choose to live. In This Episode: Why we can't keep wearing the "dirty diaper" of our old life The three guardrails for Christian living: Love, Light, and Wisdom Why sanctification requires your participation, not just God's intervention How your lifestyle is the loudest sermon you'll ever preach Pastor Stephen shares why your presence should change the atmosphere of any room you enter. This is Week 7 of the Stronger series from Open Door Church. Scripture: Ephesians 4:17-32, Ephesians 5:1-21

Scripture: Ephesians

Scripture - Ephesians 5:1-14Thank You for listening!Follow us on Facebook Instagram YouTube Website You can contact us at office@newcovenantaz.orgMaking Jesus Christ the Heart of Every Home.

Scripture: Ephesians 1:11-23As we give thanks for the saints of our community—and of our lives—we reflect on the inheritance we receive through Christ… and the ways God, and others, pass on light and love through the generations. The post Inheritance (All Saints) appeared first on Foreside Community Church.

Scripture: Ephesians 2:11-18

This week, Pastor Brandon continues our Journey Through Ephesians series with one of the most powerful chapters in Scripture — Ephesians 2. Before Christ, we were spiritually dead, slaves to the world, the enemy, and our own flesh. But Paul reminds us that everything changes with two words: “But God.” Through His mercy and grace, we've been raised to life, set free, and created for good works that He prepared for us in advance. This message is a reminder that salvation isn't the end — it's the beginning. We were dead, but now we are alive in Christ! ⏱️ Timestamps 0:00 – Welcome to Venture Church Online1:00 – Building expansion and generosity update2:30 – Introduction to Ephesians 23:40 – Reading Ephesians 2:1–105:00 – “Before and After” – setting up the message7:00 – Pastor Brandon's story about shoulder surgery8:30 – Who we were before Jesus10:00 – Spiritually dead and separated from God12:00 – Slaves to the world, the enemy, and the flesh14:40 – The world's pattern and influence16:00 – The deception of the enemy18:00 – Our struggle with the flesh and temptation22:00 – Deserving of wrath — the weight of sin24:30 – “But God” — the turning point26:00 – Made alive with Christ through grace28:00 – Understanding God's immeasurable love and mercy30:00 – Salvation as resurrection and new life32:00 – We are God's handiwork — His masterpiece34:00 – Created for good works prepared in advance36:00 – God's pursuit of those still in the “before”37:30 – The hope of transformation — “But God”39:00 – Invitation to follow Jesus and prayer of salvation40:30 – Closing announcements and worship night preview

Are you growing spiritually or just getting older? In this episode of the Open Door Church podcast, Pastor Stephen Mizell tackles a crucial question every believer must answer: What's the difference between natural growth and intentional maturity? Drawing from Ephesians 4, Pastor Stephen reveals why salvation is just the starting line, not the finish line. He challenges us to move from being spiritual consumers to becoming spiritual contributors—from spectators in the stands to participants on the field. In this episode, you'll discover: Why growth is automatic but maturity requires intentional obedience How to walk worthy of your calling in Christ The difference between knowing Bible facts and looking like Jesus Why unity is evidence of maturity (and pride is the seed of division) How to move from consumer to contributor in God's kingdom What it means to be unshaken when culture shifts around you Pastor Stephen also shares a powerful, personal vision for the next season of ministry, including four specific commitments that will challenge and inspire you—whether you're a grandparent, a young person, a new believer, or someone sensing God's call to ministry. This isn't just another sermon about spiritual growth. It's a call to intentional maturity that will change how you walk out your faith every single day. Scripture: Ephesians 4:1-16 visitopendoor.com

Scripture: Ephesians 2:19 and 1 John 3:1-10

Scripture: Ephesians 5:22-30

Scripture: Ephesians 2:19-22

SCRIPTURE- Ephesians 1:7"In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace.”REFLECTION- LaurenMUSIC- "Common Threads" by Bobby McFerrin- "These Alone Are Enough" Catholic Hymn, Piano instrumental by Keith WashoNOTES- Read Mary Ellyn's blog article, "Unshakable Promises of God Every Catholic Should Know", by clicking here. - All Souls Collage and Mass: click here to submit a name and photo of a loved one who has died in the last year.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.

Description: In this message from our Stronger series, Pastor Stephen Mizell reminds us that God's plan for your life is bigger than your life. Drawing from Ephesians 3, he unpacks the mystery of God's purpose—revealed through Christ and displayed through the church. Discover how to find meaning in trials, live rooted in love, and walk confidently in the purpose God has designed for you. Scripture: Ephesians 3:1–21 Key Themes: God's purpose is eternal and far greater than our own plans The church displays God's wisdom and grace to the world Suffering has purpose—it strengthens and shapes us Before God works through you, He works in you Connect: Open Door Church | Edenton, NC Website: visitopendoor.com

SCRIPTURE- Ephesians 2:10"For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."REFLECTION- Mary EllynMUSIC- Abendlied by VOCES8- Love by Dream AcademyNOTES- All Souls Collage and Mass: click here to submit a name and photo of a loved one who has died in the last year.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.

Scripture: Ephesians 3:1-11

Connect with me here! Send me a text message! Scripture: Ephesians 2:10 – “For we are God's masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.”1) Your worth is in who you are, not what you do. Your identity is rooted in Christ, not in motherhood, ministry, or performance.2) God defines your value. Whether you're busy or resting, His love for you remains the same.1 john 3:1- see what great love the father has lavished on us that we should be called children of GodRomans 5:8 says, "But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us"Jeremiah 31:3 says, "I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore I have drawn you out with lovingkindness"Romans 8:38-39: proclaims, "For I am convinced that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord"3) Roles can change, identity doesn't. Seasons shift, but being a daughter of the King is unchanging.Be encouraged, challenged and blessed today!!Grab your downloadable scripture cards here>> https://stan.store/mrsangelapitnikoff/p/30-scripture-cards✨Come hang with me on IG- https://www.instagram.com/mrsangelapitnikoff/✨Join our FB sisterhood!- https://www.facebook.com/groups/kingdomdaughterssisterhood✨Want some fun free resources? Click here- www.thekingdomdaughters.comSupport the show

In a world increasingly divided by algorithms, politics, and social media echo chambers, the gospel offers something radically different: true unity through Christ. Pastor Stephen Mizell shows how Jesus tears down walls and creates one new family from strangers and outsiders. Key Points: Algorithms divide us, but the cross unites us Remember you were once an outsider—stay humble Christ's death reconciles us to God AND to each other The church isn't optional—we need community to find our purpose A brick alone is a weapon; together we're God's temple Scripture: Ephesians 2:11-22 If this encouraged you, like, subscribe, and share! Connect With Us: Website: visitopendoor.com  Service Times: 9am & 10:45am  Location: Open Door Church, Edenton, NC #Unity #Ephesians #ChurchFamily #BiblicalTeaching

Scripture: Ephesians 2:1-10

In this sermon, Pastor Steven walks through one of the most powerful passages in Scripture—Ephesians 2:1–10. He shows how Paul confronts the full reality of our condition apart from Christ—dead in sin, enslaved to the world, the flesh, and the devil—and then reveals the breathtaking hope in two words: “But God.” Through His mercy, love, and grace, God makes us alive in Christ and calls us His workmanship—reborn as a living testimony to His grace.

2025-10-05-1030 Pastor Loran Livingston is the speaker this morning, October 5, 2025, in the 10;30 AM service.   Scripture: Ephesians 2:8–10, John 1:10–13, Galatians 1:6–9, Matthew 16:13–18, Ephesians 5:11   Notes: -Different religions and people believe many different things about who Jesus is. -God's own word says Jesus is the Son of God. -You must read the bible and decide for yourself what you believe. -The most important question you're ever going to answer is: Who Do You Say I Am?

2025-10-05-0830 Pastor Loran Livingston is the speaker this morning, October 5, 2025, in the 8;30 AM service.   Scripture: Ephesians 2:8–10, John 1:10–13, Galatians 1:6–9, Matthew 16:13–18, Ephesians 5:11   Notes: -Different religions and people believe many different things about who Jesus is. -God's own word says Jesus is the Son of God. -You must read the bible and decide for yourself what you believe. -The most important question you're ever going to answer is: Who Do You Say I Am?

In week three of our Stronger series, Pastor Stephen Mizell teaches from Ephesians 2 on the power of God's grace. Grace doesn't just make you better—it makes you alive. Discover what it means to move from death to life, to receive mercy you can't earn, and to live from grace instead of performance. Scripture: Ephesians 2:1–10 Key Quote: “Grace doesn't grade on a curve—it's graded on a cross.” If this message encouraged you, like, subscribe, and share it with someone who needs to hear about God's grace today. Join us this Sunday at Open Door Church in Edenton, NC—where we're building stronger faith together.

Series: RootedWeek 5 Title: There Is an Enemy!Scripture: Ephesians 6:10–20Big Idea: There is a real enemy who opposes God and His people—but Christ has already won the victory. We don't fight for victory; we fight from it.I. The Reality of the EnemyEvil isn't just human—it's spiritual. There is an unseen realm of darkness opposing God's Kingdom.Satan is not a myth or symbol—he is a fallen angel who rebelled against God and now seeks to steal, kill, and destroy (John 10:10).The devil's greatest trick is convincing the world he doesn't exist.Everything God creates, Satan counterfeits.II. The Enemy's Strategy1. Temptation to SinSatan entices believers to gratify the flesh outside of God's will.Sin becomes a stronghold when it moves from struggle to pattern.2 Corinthians 10:3–5 — take every thought captive.We defeat temptation by walking in the Spirit (Galatians 5:16–17).2. Accusation and LiesThe enemy is “the father of lies” (John 8:44).He twists God's Word and distorts truth to produce shame and confusion.Agreements with lies (“I am unworthy,” “God doesn't care”) must be broken by declaring God's truth.Romans 8:1 — no condemnation for those in Christ.3. Persecution and SufferingThe spirit of darkness opposes the Spirit in you.Believers worldwide face hatred and persecution (Matthew 10:22–23).Trials refine faith and earn eternal reward (James 1:12).III. The Path to VictoryVictory begins with salvation: transferred from the kingdom of darkness into the Kingdom of God's Son (Colossians 1:13).Put on the full armor of God (Ephesians 6:13–17):Belt of truth – stand against lies.Breastplate of righteousness – guard your heart.Shoes of peace – stay grounded in the gospel.Shield of faith – extinguish doubt and fear.Helmet of salvation – protect your mind with assurance.Sword of the Spirit – strike back with the Word of God.We are protected and empowered to stand firm.The fight is not ours—it's God's.IV. Christ's TriumphColossians 2:15 — Jesus disarmed the rulers and authorities, making a public spectacle of them by the cross.The cross was not His defeat—it was His victory parade.Satan and shame are already conquered.We march in triumph behind our King.

When you're young, there are probably things you're sure would never happen to you, or things you're sure you or friends would never do. But usually, as we get older, we begin to wonder whether there's any rhyme or reason to life. Scientifically, they now say life is chaotic, that there is nothing but disorder. That's both the practical and the intellectual perception. But Christianity has the most wonderful, the most sophisticated, and the most decisive answer to that perception: Jesus is King. When we see our lives and history looking chaotic, the Bible comes and says to us, “Calm down. There's an explanation.” Let me show you how the two aspects of the kingship of Christ make up this most wonderful answer: 1) Jesus Christ has a kingdom coming, and 2) Jesus is King right now of history. This sermon was preached by Dr. Timothy Keller at Redeemer Presbyterian Church on January 30, 1994. Series: Understanding Jesus. Scripture: Ephesians 1:9–12. Today's podcast is brought to you by Gospel in Life, the site for all sermons, books, study guides and resources from Timothy Keller and Redeemer Presbyterian Church. If you've enjoyed listening to this podcast and would like to support the ongoing efforts of this ministry, you can do so by visiting https://gospelinlife.com/give and making a one-time or recurring donation.