Podcasts about scripture matthew

SCRIPTURE- Matthew 24:13"But the one who endures to the end will be saved."REFLECTION- KyleMUSIC- Companions on the Journey by The 7pm Choir (YouTube)- Your Word by David NevueNOTES-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: Matthew 25:31-46 Key Takeaways: + The Identity Jesus Claims Daniel 7:13-14 Acts 17:30-31 "I am trying here to prevent anyone saying the really foolish thing that people often say about Him: 'I'm ready to accept Jesus as a great moral teacher, but I don't accept his claim to be God? That is the one thing we must not say. A man who was merely a man and said the sort of things Jesus said would not be a great moral teacher. He would either be a lunatic-on the level with the man who says he is a poached egg-or else he would be the Devil of Hell. You must make your choice. Either this man was, and is, the Son of God: or else a madman or something worse. You can shut Him up for a fool, you can spit at Him and kill Him as a demon or you can fall at His feet and call Him Lord and God. But let us not come with any patronising nonsense about His being a great human teacher. He has not left that open to us. He did not intend to." – C.S. Lewis, Mere Christianity. "The sane man does not believe that he is God; the sane man does not believe that he will rise from the dead. If Jesus said those things, He was either speaking the truth, or He was insane." – G. K. Chesterton, The Everlasting Man. + The Judgment Jesus Delivers + The Criteria by which Jesus Judges John 10:14–15 Matthew 10:40–42 1 Corinthians 4:9–13  Galatians 6:10 1 John 3:14 1 John 3:16–18 3 John 5–8

In this message, we'll look at three common excuses for why we struggle to follow Jesus, as well as three compelling priorities that will shape us as fully-surrendered disciples.   Scripture: Matthew 8:18-22

Francis Schaeffer said, “Ideas have consequences.” If people believe false ideas, they inevitably act on them in disastrous ways. The only solution to such false ideas is to replace them with the truth. Theology and doctrine matter. In this series, we will work through important doctrine for followers of Jesus to understand as they strive to follow Jesus. This week, we explore baptism and communion through the Doctrine of the Ordinances. Scripture: Matthew 3:13–17 (ESV) // Luke 22:14–20 (ESV) Speaker: Michael Bayne

Jesus and the Party People, with Pastor Rick Russell. Series: Beloved. Belonging. Delightful. A Spacious Christianity, First Presbyterian Church of Bend, Oregon. Scripture: Matthew 11; 23; Luke 7; 11; 14.Ever felt left out or lonely? This Sunday, our special guest Rick Russell of Mountain View Community Development is diving into a powerful story about belonging, community, and unexpected invitations. Join us online or in-person to explore how we can build connections that truly matter.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:Loneliness, community needs, belonging, marginalized people, homeless shelter, safe parking, affordable housing, banquet room, case managers, support staff, virtual connections, community survey, church leadership, volunteer efforts, building relationships., presbyterian, church, online worship, bend, oregonFeaturing:Rev. Dr. Steven Koski, Rev. Sharon Edwards, Becca Ellis, Brave of Heart, GuestsSupport the show

Send us a textWhat foundation are you building your life on? In this week's podcast, Pastor Reid Robinette closes Jesus' Sermon on the Mount with a powerful challenge: choose the narrow way, live authentically, and build your life on the rock of God's truth.

Scripture: Matthew 13:47-50

SCRIPTURE: Matthew 6:9-11 / Luke 11:2-3SHOW NOTES: For encouragement on your spiritual journey, we invite you to visit our ministry website, Discover God's Truth, where you can access additional resources to enrich your Walk with God. During His earthly ministry, Jesus spent time praying, and the disciples asked Him how they should pray. "Once, Jesus was in a certain place praying. As he finished, one of his disciples came to him and said, “Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples.” Jesus said, “This is how you should pray." Luke 11:1-2 He has given us an example, a pattern to follow. We approach our Heavenly Father, acknowledge His holiness, and remember the promise of His coming kingdom. "Your kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven." Matthew 6:10 Jesus then taught that we can bring our needs and struggles to our Father in prayer. We can ask for what we need and for provisions. We confess our sins and offer forgiveness to others. Finally, it is important to stay alert against the schemes of the evil one and ask the Lord for His protection and strength during times of testing. "Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour." 1 Peter 5:8 SONG: "The Lord's Prayer" - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G2uPU-NY-sc&list=RDG2uPU-NY-sc&start_radio=1

Scripture: Matthew 25:14-30 Key Takeaways: + Live the life you are going to one day wish you had lived + We have God-given resources corresponding to our God-given capacities and are responsible to God for how we steward them Psalm 24:1 + Urgency + Energy + Intentionality + Everyone will give an account to God for how they lived their lives and managed their God-given resources Matthew 16:27 1 Corinthians 4:5 2 Corinthians 5:9-10 1 Corinthians 3:10-15 + We will be evaluated NOT based on our capacities but based on our faithfulness with the capacities and opportunities entrusted to us. + The Day of Judgment will reveal the true nature of a person's relationship with God

In this message, we'll look at the first triad of miracles that Matthew records, demonstrating Jesus' divine power as the promised Messianic King, who not only has the power to heal, but the power to save.   Scripture: Matthew 8:1-17

Jesus teaches his disciples how to pray. Rather than focusing on a list of requests, Jesus invites his disciples to use prayer as a way to align their hearts to God's will and ways. It's another beautiful invitation to awaken to the presence of God and communion with him. Scripture: Matthew 6:5-14

Before Jesus began His ministry, He faced the full force of Satan's temptations. In Part 3 of our Matthew study, we look at the third temptation—how the enemy uses doubt, distortion, and deception, and how Jesus shows us the way to overcome. [Full Description Below ⬇️] Description (Full): In this week's message, *Messiah's Temptation from the Father of Lies | Part 3*, we continue our deep study in Matthew by examining the third temptation of Jesus. Before beginning His ministry, the Messiah faced direct attacks from Satan. These temptations reveal timeless truths about how the enemy works—and how we can stand firm in God's strength. Pastor Brandon unpacks the spiritual battle behind temptation, showing us that whenever we step out in faith and obedience, we should expect pushback. Satan's tactics—doubt, denial, distortion, and deception—are still at work today. Yet, Jesus shows us how to overcome: by clinging to God's Word, refusing compromise, and worshiping God alone. We also explore practical applications for our lives: - Recognizing spiritual attacks when we step out in ministry. - Understanding the pattern of temptation that affects families, marriages, and churches. - Guarding against covetousness and idolatry by desiring God above all else. Jesus' victory over temptation assures us that He is our faithful High Priest who sympathizes with our struggles (Hebrews 4:15). He overcame so that we might overcome in Him.

Before Jesus began His ministry, He faced the full force of Satan's temptations. In Part 3 of our Matthew study, we look at the third temptation—how the enemy uses doubt, distortion, and deception, and how Jesus shows us the way to overcome.   [Full Description Below ⬇️] Description (Full): In this week's message, *Messiah's Temptation from the Father of Lies | Part 3*, we continue our deep study in Matthew by examining the third temptation of Jesus. Before beginning His ministry, the Messiah faced direct attacks from Satan. These temptations reveal timeless truths about how the enemy works—and how we can stand firm in God's strength. Pastor Brandon unpacks the spiritual battle behind temptation, showing us that whenever we step out in faith and obedience, we should expect pushback. Satan's tactics—doubt, denial, distortion, and deception—are still at work today. Yet, Jesus shows us how to overcome: by clinging to God's Word, refusing compromise, and worshiping God alone. We also explore practical applications for our lives: - Recognizing spiritual attacks when we step out in ministry. - Understanding the pattern of temptation that affects families, marriages, and churches. - Guarding against covetousness and idolatry by desiring God above all else. Jesus' victory over temptation assures us that He is our faithful High Priest who sympathizes with our struggles (Hebrews 4:15). He overcame so that we might overcome in Him.

by Brooks Simpson | From the Series: Fan to Follower | Scripture: Matthew 16:24-28 | Download Audio

Baptism Sunday is one of the greatest celebrations in the life of the church. It's a day of joy, testimony, and transformation as believers publicly declare their decision to follow Jesus.Pastor Tommy unpacks the meaning of baptism as more than just a ceremony—it's a profound decision, a new destiny, and a beautiful identification with Christ and His church.Through Scripture, illustrations, and timeless truth, we're reminded that baptism is not about ritual but about following Jesus with no turning back. Whether you're preparing for baptism, remembering your own, or simply rejoicing with others, this message will stir your heart and strengthen your faith.

by Brooks Simpson | From the Series: Fan to Follower | Scripture: Matthew 16:24-28 | Download Audio

Scripture: Matthew 13:44-46

Scripture: Matthew 25:1-13 Key Takeaways: + There is life and longing in the delay Ephesians 5:25 John 14:3 2 Peter 3:9 + When he returns, it will be too late to get ready + You cannot transfer faith + Be ready for the return of the bridegroom + How do you live ready? Matthew 7:21-23 Matthew 25:11-12 “Tomorrow is the devil's day, but today is God's. Satan does not care how spiritual your intentions are, or how holy your resolutions, if only they are determined to be done tomorrow.” - JC Ryle

SCRIPTURE- Matthew 5:16"Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.”REFLECTION- Fr. CarlMUSIC- NOTES-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: Matthew 15:21-28Message: When Jesus is SilentSpeaker: Pastor S.N. Winston, JrDate: August 3, 2025Thank 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 a textIn Matthew 7:1–6, Jesus gives one of His most quoted — and most misunderstood — commands: “Do not judge.” But what does He really mean? In this message, Pastor Kevin Syes unpacks the difference between judgment and discernment, the danger of hypocrisy, and how to approach others with humility and grace. Learn how to remove the “log” from your own eye before addressing the “speck” in someone else's, and discover the freedom that comes from living under God's standard of mercy.

Scripture: Matthew 14:22-33

SCRIPTURE: Matthew 6:9-11 / Luke 11:2-3SHOW NOTES: For encouragement on your spiritual journey, we invite you to visit our ministry website, Discover God's Truth, where you can access additional resources to enrich your Walk with God. Do you remember when you first memorized The Lord's Prayer? How old were you? "This, then, is how you should pray: “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.” Matthew 6:9-10 (NIV) As children of God, we have a personal connection with our Heavenly Father. Each of us can approach Him to share our requests and burdens. He is holy and deserving of our praise. "See how very much our Father loves us, for He calls us his children, and that is what we are!" - 1 John 3:1 (NLT)The Kingdom of God is a fundamental concept in Christian theology, representing God's rule and authority over His creation, especially among believers. It represents God's presence and power, both now and in the future. During His earthly ministry, Jesus taught about the Kingdom of God. People's lives are transformed and renewed as they turn away from their sin and follow God's will. "Kingdom Come" – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NlQQcQc0eHU&list=RDNlQQcQc0eHU&start_radio=1

Jesus, help me to fight my battles your way. Keywords: Jesus; Peter; fight; sword; words; culture; peace. Scripture: Matthew 26:52-53 A “best of” episode.

Scripture: Matthew 13:31-33

Scripture: Matthew 15v21-28, Hebrews 11v1-6

SCRIPTURE- Matthew 11:29"[L]earn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart; and you will find rest for your souls."REFLECTION- Fr. RonMUSIC- NOTES-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: Matthew 6:9 / Luke 11:1-2SHOW NOTES: For encouragement on your spiritual journey, we invite you to visit our ministry website, Discover God's Truth, where you can access additional resources to enrich your Walk with God. Prayer is a vital part of our Christian life. We communicate with our Heavenly Father and seek His wisdom, guidance, and direction. Jesus' disciples traveled with Him for three years. They listened to His teachings, witnessed His miracles, and heard Him pray. Many times, He would go off to pray in the evening or early morning hours. In today's lesson, the disciples ask Jesus to teach them how to pray. He responds with the prayer we often call The Lord's Prayer (Matthew 6:9-15) or The Disciples' Prayer (Luke 11:2-4). This prayer is the example or model Jesus gave to His disciples. One day, Jesus was praying in a certain place. When He finished, one of his disciples said to Him, “Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples.”He said to them, “When you pray, say: ‘Father, hallowed be Your name.'” Luke 11:1-2 God's "name" reflects His nature. Jesus called God His Father. We also call Him our Heavenly Father to give Him glory and praise. "But now you must be holy in everything you do, just as God who chose you is holy." 1 Peter 1:15 SONG: "Song of the Saints" - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NmrbS8pI6HU&list=RDNmrbS8pI6HU&start_radio=1

Sermon by Rev. Tom Buiter on the evening of July 27th, 2025 at New Covenant Church in Anderson, SC. Scripture: Matthew 22:1-14 www.ncchurch.net

Scripture: Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43

Daily Dose of Hope July 25, 2025   Scripture – Matthew 28:16-20   Prayer:  Almighty Father, Thank you for a new day and thank you that your mercies are new every single morning.  How grateful we are that we can start afresh and anew each day.  Forgive us for the many times we fell short, for when we weren't loving, for when we were easily angered, for when our patience wore thin. Today, help us represent you well.  In all things, may we be reminded who and whose we are.  We are yours.  In Your Name, Amen.   Today's reading includes the Great Commission, which we find in Matthew 28:16-20.  If you don't recall, this is when Jesus tells his follows, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”   There is a fair amount to unpack here but what I want to focus on is making disciples.  Keep in mind that Jesus wasn't merely suggesting we make disciples.  It feels much more like a command here.  As his followers, we are to make disciples of all nations, baptize them, and teach them the ways of Jesus.  We don't do this alone, but we rest in the promise that Jesus is with us all the time, guiding and leading us through the power of the Holy Spirit.   But here is the big question: What does it mean to be a disciple?   It's fairly simple.  A disciple is an apprentice of Jesus. It is someone who actively is working/training to become more like Jesus (to do what Jesus does). A disciple is not someone who has simply said yes to Jesus, a disciple is someone who is actively training in the ways of Jesus and training others in the ways of Jesus.   Discipleship is not simply some acts of personal devotion in the morning, some bible study, prayer, and meditation. That may be a component of discipleship but there is so much more to it!  Being a disciple is not something we do at church and then set it aside as we go back into the real world. Being a disciple is about devoting our whole life to being like Christ. Our whole life. It effects every area of our life. How can it not?   Let's think about Jesus. In every area of his life, he taught about God. He taught about God's Kingdom, he showed people this new way of being human. There was never a time where he said, “No, now this part of my life, faith doesn't affect this. Leave me alone and let me do my own thing.”  Discipleship is intricately connected to Lordship. There is no part of our life that does not fall under God's reign. There is no part of our life that we don't submit to God.   But how do we make disciples?  Well, first, we have to become disciples ourselves.  We have to be training to be more like Jesus.  There is intentionality in this.  How are you training to be like Jesus?  What is your plan for spiritual growth?  Once you have reflected on this, then think about how you will teach and train others.  This is a privilege and responsibility that every single Christ-follower has.  Every one of us.   Blessings, Pastor Vicki    

Daily Dose of Hope July 24, 2025   Scripture – Matthew 28:1-15   Prayer:  Lord Jesus, We give you glory and praise.  You are King of Kings and Lord of Lords.  Thank you for your giving your life for us.  Your love is overwhelming and all-encompassing.  As we think about our day and our week, help us focus on when we have seen your love at work.  Show us those moments when you were with us, walking alongside us, guiding us, directing our thoughts and our words.  Lord, how we need you.  How we yearn to see your glory.  In Your Name, Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope daily Bible reading plan.  Currently, we are doing a deep dive into the Gospels and Acts.  Today, we begin Matthew 28.   Today, we will talk about the Easter story, the best story in the history of the world.  Yes, Jesus was crucified.  Yes, Jesus died on that horrible cross.  Yes, he was laid in the tomb.  But he did not stay dead.  On Sunday morning, everything changed.  The women went to the tomb and were greeted by an angel.  The Scripture said that the angel rolled the tomb away and was sitting on it, waiting for the women.    That's when he reveals to good news.  Jesus has risen and is going ahead of them.  It's then that Jesus actually appears to the women.  In Matthew's Gospel, it's Jesus himself who tells the women to go share the good news of his resurrection with the others.   Now, let's talk a little bit about the resurrection itself. Now, there are some Christians who see the resurrection in only a metaphorical sense. At New Hope (and in the GMC), we believe that Jesus experienced a real, physical, bodily resurrection.  In fact, I believe that Jesus' resurrection really only has TRUE significance if we understand it as a real bodily resurrection. Clearly, the early church believed it was a bodily resurrection...they risked and often gave life and limb to proclaim the Good News about Jesus Christ and his resurrection.   There is much evidence for the bodily resurrection of Jesus (significantly more than for other historical events that we tend to take for granted) and some great books out there that deal with some of these issues–Lee Strobel has some good ones. If this is a question for you, I would strongly encourage you to settle that for yourself.   That being said, even for the average churchgoer who believes in a real bodily resurrection of Jesus, is it making a significant difference in their lives OR is it perhaps simply providing a vague consolation that there is something beyond death? I want you to really think about it–how has resurrection changed your life?  Have you personally been transformed by the power of the resurrection?   Paul says in I Corinthians 15 that without the resurrection, our faith would be futile, useless, a hoax. Those who have died for the faith, their suffering would be pointless. You see, so much hinges on the resurrection. Jesus' whole life was vindicated with the resurrection. The resurrection provides evidence of Jesus' divinity. Romans 1:4 says, and he was shown to be the Son of God when he was raised from the dead by the power of the Holy Spirit. He is Jesus Christ our Lord.  Because Jesus is God, then we need to take everything he says very, very seriously.  The resurrection also provides assurance and hope that our physical death is not the end...it not only points to life after death but also the future resurrection of believers. Romans 8:11 says, The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you. And just as God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, he will give life to your mortal bodies by this same Spirit living within you.   The resurrection is life-changing for us as well.  The resurrection provides the power to bring the dead to life, the power for complete transformation, to bring what was essentially dead to something that is alive, vibrant, and productive. When someone says yes to Jesus Christ, a spiritually dead person becomes united with a life-giving Savior. When that happens, his resurrection produces a resurrection in us. The word resurrection actually comes from the same root as resurgence or rising again. We become connected to a life-giving power, the same power that raised Jesus from the dead. This resurrection power has the ability to revive us, restore us, and transform us.   How amazing that we have become united with Jesus Christ, become filled with the Holy Spirit, and connected with God's mighty power. Think about it. This is a power than can perform miracles, this is a power than can make the dead come to life, this is the power that will ensure our eternity is secure.  Certainly, if it has the power to do all those things, this resurrection power can also transform us in radical ways. When we become united with Christ, we die to our old life & become new creations.   How have you experienced resurrection power in your life?   The last portion of today's reading is the guards' report.  They experienced the power of the resurrection and they tried to cover it up.  Why do you think they were so afraid?   More tomorrow.   Blessings, Pastor Vicki

The trouble with the Sermon on the Mount is it's so familiar that almost nobody listens to it, almost nobody knows what it's saying. How do we know that? At the very end of the sermon, it says the crowds were amazed at Jesus's teaching. And that word, “amazed,” in Greek meant thunderstruck, shocked, astounded. That's the prevailing way people responded. Have you been thunderstruck? Are you shocked by it? If you're not astounded, you haven't listened to it.  So let's listen to it. There are basically three great things Jesus says that are utterly astounding: 1) that there are two ways, two options spiritually, 2) that at the end of those two ways, there's a judge, and 3) that at the end of that judgment, there's a sentence. This sermon was preached by Dr. Timothy Keller at Redeemer Presbyterian Church on May 23, 1999. Series: The Mount; Life in the Kingdom. Scripture: Matthew 7:15-29. 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: Matthew 6:1-8 SHOW NOTES: For encouragement on your spiritual journey, we invite you to visit our ministry website, Discover God's Truth, where you will find additional resources to enrich your Walk with God. We look for lessons and examples from Scripture to guide our walk with God. In the first part of this series, “The Power of Prayer,” we examined many examples from the Old Testament. Now, we turn to the pages of the New Testament. In today's lesson, we will explore Jesus' words in Matthew 6. Jesus warns the disciples about hypocrisy. Yes, we are to live righteous lives, but “Watch out!” “You are the light of the world … let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father” (Matthew 5:14-16). We are to perform good deeds openly in front of a watching world, not for our praise, but to draw attention to our Heavenly Father and give Him glory!"And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by others." Matthew 6:5Again, “Do not be like the hypocrites.” He references the Pharisees and Sadducees, the two main religious groups. They are obsessed with what others think of them. They seek recognition for their “good and righteous acts.”We pray for the same reasons children talk to their parents. We share concerns. We have a relationship and seek fellowship. We want help when facing tough times and confusing situations in life. Children need the wisdom of a Father and Mother. "Lord, hear my prayer! Listen to my plea! Do not turn away from me in my time of distress. Bend down to listen and answer me quickly when I call to you." Psalm 102:1-2 SONG: "When We Pray" - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4DJ3NjA9ZjA&list=RD4DJ3NjA9ZjA&start_radio=1

Daily Dose of Hope July 23, 2025   Scripture – Matthew 27:57-66   Prayer:  Holy God, You are a God of order and a God of purpose.  The world may seem chaotic, but you are not.  You have ordered your world with perfection.  Help us trust you.  Lord, fill us with your perfect peace.  In Your Name, Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, a deep dive into the Gospels and Acts.  Today is Wednesday so that means Recharge night.  I hope to see you at 6:30pm in the Garage for a time of worship, fellowship, prayer, and small groups.   In our reading today, we finish up Matthew 27, which includes putting Jesus' body in the tomb and the Romans securing and sealing the tomb.  There isn't a lot here to cover, so I would encourage you to take your extra time from today and just spend some time with Jesus in prayer.  I think the Passion narrative is difficult to take in.  I know it's a story we have heard a lot, but when we really focus on the details, it's both distressing and extraordinary at the same time.  What do all these different elements mean to you?    Let's finish up today's chapter.  A wealthy man and member of the Jewish ruling council, Joseph of Arimathea, requests Jesus' body from Pilate, who orders it to be given over to him.  Joseph wraps the body in burial cloth and places it in a new tomb, one he had just purchased.  At this point, everything feels very heavy.  And the women are there watching it all.    I don't want us to miss the significance of this.  Joseph has gone to great risk and expense to make sure Jesus' body is cared for with respect.  Now, everyone will know he is believer of Jesus.  There is no keeping anything secret at this point.  Joseph is also making himself ceremonially unclean by touching a dead body right before the Sabbath.  Finally, Joseph is fulfilling prophecy from Isaiah, spoken 700 years before Jesus.  “He was assigned a grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his death” (Isaiah 53:9).   The chapter ends with Pilate making sure the tomb is very secure.  It's interesting that they recall Jesus' words about rising again.  The disciples seem to have forgotten this but the Romans remember it clearly.  They post a guard in front of the tomb and seal it.  They want to ensure that no one can steal the body.    I love how God basically took care of every detail here.  More tomorrow.   Blessings, Pastor Vicki

Daily Dose of Hope July 22, 2025   Scripture - Matthew 27:32-56   Prayer:  Holy and Perfect God, Thank you for your divine plan.  Thank you for not giving up on your people and sending Jesus.  Your love and care for us is hard to comprehend.  Help us be a better reflection of your love in all we do.  Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, a deep dive into the Gospels and Acts.  Today, we are diving into part two of Matthew 27, which includes the crucifixion and the death of Jesus.   Let's start with the crucifixion.  Matthew has a lot of detail.  We meet Simon of Cyrene who was forced to carry Jesus' cross.  While Simon certainly had no choice in the matter, I'm guessing his life was never the same after that.  He had carried the cross for the Savior of the world.  Jesus is offered wine with gall (which was very bitter and possibly offered to dull pain) but he tastes it and then refuses it.  His clothes are divided among the soldiers.  A sign is placed above him that says, “King of the Jews.”  And then there are all the insults hurled at him, from passers-by but also from those crucified next to him.  So much humiliation.   However, for those who witness Jesus' actual death, it is life-changing.  The sky gets dark and Jesus cries out the first line of Psalm 22, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” At the time, people would reference a psalm by stating the first line and the rest of the psalm would be assumed.  Psalm 22 was written by David, and it's a psalm that expresses abandonment and despair in the face of sorrow.    But this leads to some questions.  Did Jesus really feel abandoned by God at that moment on the cross?  I mentioned this in when we discussed Mark 15 and I think it's important to emphasize again. By quoting Psalm 22, Jesus is actually expressing confidence in the face of suffering.  He is trusting that God will ultimately deliver him. We gain confidence in this interpretation because it is faithful to our understanding of the Trinity as inseparable - one part of the Godhead can't abandon another part of the Godhead.  There is also a distinct union of Jesus' divine and human natures.  All of this comes together on the cross.  Let's read Psalm 22, verses 1-8...   My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?    Why are you so far from saving me,    so far from my cries of anguish? 2 My God, I cry out by day, but you do not answer,    by night, but I find no rest. 3 Yet you are enthroned as the Holy One;    you are the one Israel praises. 4 In you our ancestors put their trust;    they trusted and you delivered them.5 To you they cried out and were saved;    in you they trusted and were not put to shame. 6 But I am a worm and not a man,    scorned by everyone, despised by the people. 7 All who see me mock me;    they hurl insults, shaking their heads. 8 “He trusts in the Lord,” they say,    “let the Lord rescue him. Let him deliver him,    since he delights in him.” And as the psalm continues (it is a bit long to real in full here), we see how the psalmist begins to express trust in the Lord and praise his name.  He knows that God will deliver him.  The bottom line seems to be that on the cross, Jesus bore the weight of our sin as the Son of God, but the Father did not literally abandon him, as that would divide the Trinity and undermine Christ's saving work.  Jesus knew that God would deliver him but also provide a way to deliver the whole world.  Right before Jesus breathed his last breath on the cross, the curtain in the Temple was torn down the middle. This is the curtain that separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place (the Holiest of Holies) where the ark of the covenant was kept and the presence of God remained. When the curtain tore, it was a sign that the New Covenant was instituted. Because of Jesus' sacrifice (the final sacrifice for sin), those who believe in him can now go directly to the throne of God's grace. When holy God looks at us, he doesn't see our sinfulness but the blood of Christ. Thus, there are no more barriers that can separate us from God.  Hebrews 10 refers to this incredible phenomena...   Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, 20 by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body, 21 and since we have a great priest over the house of God, 22 let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. Hebrews 10:19-22   Matthew also adds that when Jesus died, the earth also shook and that some who were already dead were brought back to life. The centurion who was guarding the tomb declared that this man, Jesus, must have been the Son of God.   There are two questions that are important to answer when discussing today's topic: Why was Jesus killed? and then, Why did Jesus die? They are both critical questions and the answers are different. I'm going to keep this brief but I want to at least address this.    Why was Jesus killed?  Well, a number of groups colluded to kill him.  First, Jesus was killed because the Jewish leaders felt threatened by him.  They feared him.  He threatened all they thought was right and they were unwilling to open their minds to God doing something differently.  They refused to believe that he was the Messiah, or we could say he wasn't the kind of Messiah that they were expecting.  And they didn't like the way he had the support of the common people.  But let's be clear, Jesus was also killed because his crucifixion was a political act by the Romans.  They didn't want anyone out there claiming to be king of the Jews.  They wanted to ensure that the only one with authority was the Roman government.   Now, why did Jesus die?  That's a whole different question.  Jesus died so that we could be cleansed of sin and walk intimately with a holy God.  Jesus, fulfilling Old Testament prophecy, became the final sacrifice for all sin for all time.  Ever since the fall, God had been on a mission to redeem the world.  The Law was part of that but the people could not keep the Law.  What the Law did was demonstrate how broken, flawed, and sinful us humans really are.  Something much more drastic was needed.  So, God sent Jesus.    Jesus was God with flesh on.  When we say that Jesus is the Son of God, that means that he was the second person of the Trinity, God himself.  He came to earth to live among us and demonstrate to us a new way of doing life, one in which God reigns as King.  Everything Jesus did – his whole life as well as his death and resurrection, was intended to demonstrate the fundamental values of God's Kingdom.  Of course, one of those values was love.  Jesus was and is love.  We see this on the cross.  We've read about all the human actions that led to the cross but this was God's divine plan.  Jesus knew it had to happen.  Jesus knew this was the only way.  So he went voluntarily to the cross.  He was God and he could have called a legion of angels down to save him.  But he didn't.  He went through with all the humiliation and torture.  For us.  For all of us.  He died for us.   Blessings, Pastor Vicki  

There's no one section where Jesus lays out how a relationship with him radically changes our human relationships and forms a new, deep, radical human community in Christ. It's not in one place — it's all throughout the Sermon on the Mount.  The Sermon on the Mount is really a description of a new kind of community. What does Jesus teach us about this radical new community that is formed by his gospel message? When it comes into your life, how does it create this new community between those who believe in Jesus?  Jesus teaches us four things: 1) the necessity of this new community, 2) the intensity of this new community, 3) the symmetry of this new community, and 4) the causality of this new community. This sermon was preached by Dr. Timothy Keller at Redeemer Presbyterian Church on May 16, 1999. Series: The Mount; Life in the Kingdom. Scripture: Matthew 5:21-24, 45-48; 7:1-6. 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: Matthew 21:28-33 Key Takeaways: + Only those who demonstrate repentance and faith through wholehearted obedience to the will of the Father will enter the kingdom of heaven. + Repentance Is Necessary and Good + Repentance Should Be the Lifestyle of the Christian + Repentance Leads to Obedience John 15:5 + You Become Like What You Behold Philippians 2:5–11

Do you want joy? One of the most dependable happiness engines is gratitude. So, how do we become more grateful? In Luke 17 Jesus tells a difficult story that points us to how we can have greater faith, gratitude and joy. It's achieved not just by believing Christianity, but by living it out.  Scripture: Matthew 28:19-20; Luke 17:5-10 Speaker: Kevin Stiles

When people say, “I've tried prayer, and it didn't work,” what Jesus is saying is, “You used prayer, not the way I designed it, but with a false model of spirituality.” For Jesus, the importance of prayer is revealed in a little unobtrusive word at the beginning of this passage in the Sermon on the Mount: the little word “and.” Right before Jesus talks about prayer, he talks about our engagement with the poor and the needs of the world. Then he says, “And when you pray …” Because in Jesus' understanding, it's the people who are characterized by the most radical interiority who have the most courageous, visionary engagement with the needs of the world. And before Jesus gives us a model of prayer, the famous Lord's Prayer, he tells us two other models of prayer that we should avoid.  Let's look at 1) the two false models, 2) the true model, and 3) a few practical ideas on how to go about it. This sermon was preached by Dr. Timothy Keller at Redeemer Presbyterian Church on May 9, 1999. Series: The Mount; Life in the Kingdom. Scripture: Matthew 6:5-13. 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.

If we actually take the gospel, the essential message of Jesus Christ, and we live it out, what will it look like? That's what the Sermon on the Mount is about.  And in this part of Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, we get to the area of money and possessions.  Jesus tells us three things we can draw out here: 1) how money exercises power over us, 2) why money exercises power over us, and 3) how we can break the power. This sermon was preached by Dr. Timothy Keller at Redeemer Presbyterian Church on May 2, 1999. Series: The Mount; Life in the Kingdom. Scripture: Matthew 6:19-34. 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.

On the surface, one of the most unattractive things about Christianity to our culture today is its view of sex; but if you look underneath the surface and get a better grasp on what is really taught, the Christian view of sex is one of the most attractive things about it. In other words, a lot of people see the Christian understanding of sex as undermining its credibility to them, but when you look down deeper, I think you're actually going to see the Christian view of sex is one of the evidences for its truth. Because Christianity accounts for how sex operates in our lives, in our relationships, and in our society. Let's draw out four things Jesus is saying about this in the Sermon on the Mount: 1) there is such a thing as lust, 2) what it's not, 3) what it is, and 4) how it can be healed. This sermon was preached by Dr. Timothy Keller at Redeemer Presbyterian Church on April 25, 1999. Series: The Mount; Life in the Kingdom. Scripture: Matthew 5:27-30. 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.

Christianity is utterly different from religion. At the end of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus says there are two paths—one that leads to life and one that leads to destruction. And here's what the scary thing is: both ways have people praying, giving to the poor, obeying God's law. You can do all that and still be poison, on your way to destruction. Don't mistake Christianity for religion. Jesus says if you want to be in the kingdom of heaven, there's a gospel goodness that vastly surpasses religious righteousness. How does it surpass? Gospel goodness 1) brighter, 2) deeper, 3) sweeter, and 4) higher. This sermon was preached by Dr. Timothy Keller at Redeemer Presbyterian Church on March 28, 1999. Series: The Mount; Life in the Kingdom. Scripture: Matthew 5:11-20. 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.