Podcasts about scripture readings

The following reading is from the ⁠ESV Audio Bible, read by Michael Reeves⁠.Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Crossway,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.  Used by permission. All rights reserved. The ESV text may not be quoted in any publication made available to the public by a Creative Commons license. The ESV may not be translated in whole or in part into any other language.To support or become a friend of Union, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://uniontheology.org/friends-of-union⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

The following reading is from the ⁠ESV Audio Bible, read by Michael Reeves⁠.Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Crossway,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.  Used by permission. All rights reserved. The ESV text may not be quoted in any publication made available to the public by a Creative Commons license. The ESV may not be translated in whole or in part into any other language.To support or become a friend of Union, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://uniontheology.org/friends-of-union⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

The following reading is from the ⁠ESV Audio Bible, read by Michael Reeves⁠.Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Crossway,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.  Used by permission. All rights reserved. The ESV text may not be quoted in any publication made available to the public by a Creative Commons license. The ESV may not be translated in whole or in part into any other language.To support or become a friend of Union, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://uniontheology.org/friends-of-union⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Conquering Death: Isaiah proclaims that the Lord will conquer death. Pro-Life Leader Frank explains how this prophecy destroys the foundation of the culture of death and strengthens believers with hope. You hear how God's victory empowers Christians to defend the unborn with confidence and clarity.

The following reading is from the ⁠ESV Audio Bible, read by Michael Reeves⁠.Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Crossway,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.  Used by permission. All rights reserved. The ESV text may not be quoted in any publication made available to the public by a Creative Commons license. The ESV may not be translated in whole or in part into any other language.To support or become a friend of Union, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://uniontheology.org/friends-of-union⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

The Messiah's Belt of Justice and Your Armor of Truth: The Messiah comes wearing the belt of justice and faithfulness. Pro-Life Leader Frank connects Isaiah's prophecy to the armor of God and explains how believers put on the belt of truth in the spiritual battle for life. You hear how truth stabilizes the Christian soul and strengthens your mission to defend the unborn.

This Sunday, everyone's invited to join us at one of our two Sunday gatherings on November 30th for our Family Celebration Sunday services. These services will celebrate intergenerational worship: bringing all of our children and adults together! Expect a wonderful time of singing a few special songs with the kids, as well as many of our favourite hymns and choruses. It's also the 1st Sunday of Advent so we'll enjoy a Scripture Reading on the theme of Hope by one of church families. Pastor Glenn will also share a devotional message, This Little Light of Mine from Mark 4:21-25.

The following reading is from the ESV Audio Bible, read by Michael Reeves.Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by ⁠⁠⁠⁠Crossway,⁠⁠⁠⁠ a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.  Used by permission. All rights reserved. The ESV text may not be quoted in any publication made available to the public by a Creative Commons license. The ESV may not be translated in whole or in part into any other language.To support or become a friend of Union, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://uniontheology.org/friends-of-union⁠⁠⁠⁠

The Day Is at Hand: The second reading proclaims that the night is advanced and the day is at hand. Pro-Life Leader Frank Pavone explains how this is both a blessing and a serious obligation. Believers must spread the Kingdom of Life with urgency, clarity, and hope.

First Sunday in AdventThe season of advent opens with hope. Not fear but hope that God is coming to save His people. Hope is not passive optimism; but invites total conversion, a new way of thinking, seeing, and living the life of grace. Spiritual sleep, on the other hand, is associated with set routines void of one's heart being fully engaged, faith void of intrinsically motivated desire for God, and habits that do not lift us toward God. Thus, a form of shallowness longing begins to develop in the mind, heart, and soul.Advent powerfully reminds all of humanity that change is possible and grace is near because Jesus Christ is close. Jesus desires a relationship with us as we prayerfully sing O Come O Come Emmanuel. Let us put aside works of darkness and put on the armor of light, Our Lord Jesus Christ.Scripture Readings for November 30, 2025Isaiah 2:1-5Psalm 122: 1-9Romans 13:11-14Matthew 24:37-44

Scripture Reading from Exodus 33: 1-17 (0:00)Sermon by Ben Reed (3:00)

Stay Spiritually Awake: The Gospel warns that the challenges we face come not only from evil hearts but from drowsy hearts. Fr Frank explains how spiritual alertness protects believers and strengthens the mission to defend life.

Purging Innocent Blood: The Lord comes to purge innocent blood from among His people. Pro-Life Leader Frank Pavone explains how this truth shapes the mission to defend life and strengthens believers to stand for justice. You hear how God restores righteousness and calls every Christian to defend the vulnerable with courage and clarity.

God's Dominion and Human Life: The dominion of God, proclaimed in the first reading, is the foundation of the pro-life position. Since God rules over all creation, no one may claim authority to destroy innocent life. Pro-Life Leader Frank Pavone explains how God's kingship shapes moral truth.

Thanksgiving and America's Biblical Roots: Thanksgiving reminds us why America is unique. It is founded on biblical principles essential for the survival of any nation. Pro-Life Leader Frank Pavone explains how gratitude, dependence on God, and respect for life are at the heart of America's identity.

Daniel and the Kingdom of God: Daniel serves the king while proclaiming the Kingdom of God. He represents believers who shape political life through witness, truth, and fidelity to God. Pro-Life Leader Frank Pavone explains how Christians transform culture by bringing God's Kingdom into the public square.

Scripture Reading: 1 Corinthians 12:1-31Sermon: One Body, One Spirit, Many GiftsRev. Nick Swan

Join Profs. Rolf Jacobson, Karoline Lewis, and Matt Skinner for the Fourth Sunday of Advent on December 21, 2025. Commentaries for the Fourth Sunday of Advent can be found on the Working Preacher website at https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/revised-common-lectionary/fourth-sunday-of-advent/commentary-on-matthew-118-25-11. ⏰Timecodes⏰ 00:00 Introduction to Advent and Scripture Readings 02:59 John the Baptist's Doubts and Expectations 06:00 Jesus' Response to John and the Nature of His Ministry 08:49 The Role of Isaiah in Advent Themes 11:56 The Highway of Return and God's Promise 15:03 The Significance of the Psalm and God's Justice 17:59 James' Call for Patience and Endurance 20:58 Reflections on Advent and Christian Living *  *  * Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share to stay connected with more insightful lectionary discussions! Reminder: We have commentaries for the Revised Common Lectionary, the Narrative Lectionary, and Evangelio (Spanish-language Gospel). We're here for you, working preachers! ABOUT SERMON BRAINWAVE: Sermon Brainwave is a production of Luther Seminary's Working Preacher, which has been providing trusted biblical interpretation and preaching inspiration since 2007. Find more episodes and resources by visiting https://www.workingpreacher.org/. Watch this episode on YouTube at https://youtu.be/vZTqxnSWuTg.

God of the Living: God is not a God of the dead but of the living. Jesus declares in the Gospel that he did not make death, and in Christ death is abolished. This truth forms the foundation of the pro-life conviction. Believers defend life because life belongs to the God who conquered death.

True Generosity: Jesus teaches that generosity is not measured by the size of the gift but by the sacrifice made. Fr Frank explains how sacrificial giving reflects the heart of God and strengthens the mission to defend human life.

The Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the UniverseJesus was one of the most misunderstood figures in history. From the beginning of his life, through the grace of the virgin birth until His death, many people, including his own followers found it difficult in understanding his mission and purpose. Everyday we choose which king we will serve: the false kings of power, pride, ego, and comfort or Jesus Christ, the King, who reigns from the Cross. We approach the altar of grace wholeheartedly and say. "Jesus remember me when you come into your kingdom."Scripture Readings for November 23, 20252 Samuel 5:1-3Psalm 122:1-5Colossians 1:12-20Luke 23:35-43

Scripture Reading from Luke 11: 37-54 (0:00)Sermon By Charles Anderson (3:09)

How do you see the local church? How does God see the local church? How we see the local church is vitally important, because our view of the church will determine our commitment to the church and to one another. Paul continues his fight to unite God's people in the local by teaching us who we are and all that is ours in Christ.

Duties of Nations to God: The first reading teaches that earthly kingdoms have duties toward God and toward the dignity of human life. Pro-Life Leader Frank Pavone explains how nations prosper only when they honor the laws of God and defend the vulnerable.

Until the scripture of meditation, the sound will be muted in order to protect our congregation's privacy. The Scripture for Meditation and the Scripture Reading will be posted below.

Until the scripture of meditation, the sound will be muted in order to protect our congregation's privacy. The Scripture for Meditation and the Scripture Reading will be posted below.

Until the scripture of meditation, the sound will be muted in order to protect our congregation's privacy. The Scripture for Meditation and the Scripture Reading will be posted below.

Until the scripture of meditation, the sound will be muted in order to protect our congregation's privacy. The Scripture for Meditation and the Scripture Reading will be posted below.

Until the scripture of meditation, the sound will be muted in order to protect our congregation's privacy. The Scripture for Meditation and the Scripture Reading will be posted below.

Until the scripture of meditation, the sound will be muted in order to protect our congregation's privacy. The Scripture for Meditation and the Scripture Reading will be posted below.

Join hosts Rolf Jacobson, Karoline Lewis, and Matt Skinner for this Third Sunday of Advent episode as they explore John the Baptist's profound question from prison: "Are you the one who is to come, or are we to wait for another?" (Matthew 11:2-11) The hosts examine John's struggle with doubt and disappointment while imprisoned by Herod Antipas, offering a deeply human perspective on faith when reality doesn't match expectations. They explore how Jesus responds not with rebuke but with evidence of the kingdom unfolding: the blind see, the lame walk, the deaf hear, and the dead are raised. Karoline suggests building a sermon around John's central question, exploring themes of expectation, waiting, and what we're actually looking forward to in Jesus' coming. Matt highlights how Jesus' answer reveals kingdom work happening one person at a time rather than through dramatic displays of power, connecting this back to the vision of the Sermon on the Mount from just four chapters earlier. The conversation delves into the meaning of "blessed is anyone who takes no offense at me" and discusses how this might be a subtle correction to John's expectations about the pacing and style of messianic work. The hosts emphasize the importance of "go and tell what you hear and see" as an Advent practice of noticing where God is already at work. The James reading introduces patience as a necessary Advent practice, though the hosts humorously acknowledge how difficult it is to hear "just be patient" when you're suffering or waiting for change. They explore the tension between John's radical immediacy and James' call to patient endurance. Commentaries for the Third Sunday of Advent can be found on the Working Preacher website at https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/revised-common-lectionary/third-sunday-of-advent/commentary-on-matthew-112-11-7. ⏰Timecodes⏰ 00:00 Introduction to Advent and Scripture Readings 01:15 John the Baptist's Doubts and Expectations 04:49 Jesus' Response to Doubts and the Nature of His Mission 10:16 Exploring Isaiah's Prophetic Message 18:45 The Role of the Psalm in Advent 22:06 Patience and Waiting in Advent 23:34  Outro *  *  * Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share to stay connected with more insightful lectionary discussions! Reminder: We have commentaries for the Revised Common Lectionary, the Narrative Lectionary, and Evangelio (Spanish-language Gospel). We're here for you, working preachers! ABOUT SERMON BRAINWAVE: Sermon Brainwave is a production of Luther Seminary's Working Preacher, which has been providing trusted biblical interpretation and preaching inspiration since 2007. Find more episodes and resources by visiting https://www.workingpreacher.org/. Watch this episode on YouTube at https://youtu.be/Q0ZtcMuVm2U.

Join Profs. Matt Skinner, Karoline Lewis, and Rolf Jacobson as they explore the lectionary readings for the Second Sunday of Advent, Year A, featuring John the Baptist's prophetic ministry and Isaiah's vision of the peaceable kingdom. In this episode, the hosts examine John the Baptist's dramatic appearance in Matthew's gospel, styled after Elijah as the forerunner to the Messiah. They discuss why John positions himself in the wilderness, his confrontational message to the religious authorities ("brood of vipers"), and how his call to repentance mirrors Jesus' own first words of ministry. The conversation explores John's anti-establishment stance, his popularity in first-century Palestine, and how his expectations of Jesus differed from the ministry that actually unfolded. The discussion of Isaiah 11 delves into the promise of a righteous ruler from Jesse's stump and the beautiful poetry of the peaceable kingdom where wolves dwell with lambs and lions eat straw like oxen. The hosts reflect on how this impossible vision confronts the tragic reality of human nature and our inability to solve our own brokenness, pointing to God's solution in Jesus. Karoline highlights the image of righteousness and faithfulness as the very clothing of the Messiah. The Romans passage brings Paul's climactic call for radical welcome and unity between Jewish and Gentile believers, with Rolf emphasizing the power of blessing as a way God's preferred future breaks into the present moment. The hosts explore two benedictions that offer steadfastness, encouragement, hope, joy, and peace through the Holy Spirit. ⏰Timecodes⏰ 00:00 Introduction to Advent and Scripture Readings 03:02 The Role of John the Baptist 05:58 John's Message and Expectations 09:02 The Imagery of Judgment and Mercy 12:00 Isaiah's Vision of the Peaceable Kingdom 18:05 Psalm 72: The Ideal King 19:59 Paul's Call for Unity in Romans *  *  * Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share to stay connected with more insightful lectionary discussions! Reminder: We have commentaries for the Revised Common Lectionary, the Narrative Lectionary, and Evangelio (Spanish-language Gospel). We're here for you, working preachers! ABOUT SERMON BRAINWAVE: Sermon Brainwave is a production of Luther Seminary's Working Preacher, which has been providing trusted biblical interpretation and preaching inspiration since 2007. Find more episodes and resources by visiting https://www.workingpreacher.org/. Watch this episode on YouTube at https://youtu.be/Psn00Y9C5Io.

The Temptation to Misuse the Church is Very Real: Jesus declares that His house must be a house of prayer, not a den of thieves. Today, we confront misuse of the Church's mission and reflect on staying faithful to prayer, truth, and the defense of life. This Scripture challenges us to remain rooted in the Gospel in a time of confusion and compromise.

Righteous Fury: Zeal for Justice and Life Scripture teaches about “zeal” and “just fury”—a righteous anger rooted in love and justice. Christians are called to cultivate this same holy passion against injustice, especially the evil of abortion. This episode explores how righteous anger motivates action without falling into bitterness or sin.

Opening Remarks The purpose of gathering is to worship God, not to focus on Elder Roger or songs. Expresses being 70 years old, soon to be 71, and aware of having more past than future. There is no fear of death because of knowing what awaits after life. The message has been on Elder Roger's heart, waiting for divine guidance on when to share it. Decided to speak after being asked by Brother Tommy and seeking God's direction. Relying on the Lord and aiming to convey what God has laid on their heart. Scripture Reading and Prayer Reading from Isaiah 41. Specific verses mentioned: Isaiah 41:10, 41:13, 2 Timothy 1:7 Prayer for divine help in delivering the message. Asking God to step aside and allow God's will to be done. Overcoming Fear Through Faith Reiterates not fearing what is coming because of faith in God. God loves people enough to help them through difficulties. Criticizes Christians who worry excessively. Example: People walking around with their heads down and wringing their hands. If you have God in your heart, don't worry about what's going to happen. Reference to the story of the three men in the fiery furnace. God brought them out unharmed. Reference to the Israelites crossing the Red Sea. God opened the sea to save them from the pursuing army. God will not let you perish and loves you enough to save your soul. God's Unfailing Support Emphasizes the phrase "Fear not" from Isaiah 41:13. Personal testimony of experiencing God's support through difficult times. God was holding my hand. God lifts people up when they are down and out. God can take you up out of the marty clay. Just call upon his holy name. God will not let his children down. Personal belief in God's love and sacrifice. God sent his only begotten son to die for his old boy. Serving God and Rejecting Fear Many people don't want to call on God anymore. God wants people to serve him and have access to all available blessings. God has a storehouse of blessings. Reference to 2 Timothy 1:7: "For God hath not given us the spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind." Acknowledges not having a great natural mind but knowing that God loves them. That's the most important thing in my life at this time, that God loves me and he watches over me. Sound Mind Through God God gives a sound mind to know right from wrong. A sound mind helps recognize when one is acting against God's will. When God changes your heart, he gives you a sound mind to know what you're doing good or doing wrong. That's our mission.

Rejecting God's Plan: The Tragedy of Abortion - Jesus warns about the consequences of rejecting God's choices. Abortion represents that same rejection today—choosing human will over God's gift of life. This reflection examines how aligning with God's plan restores hope, healing, and purpose.

The Fire That Prepares a Culture of Life: The Day of the Lord is described as “blazing like an oven”—a fire that purifies rather than destroys. This refining fire prepares our hearts, our culture, and our nation to reject the culture of death and embrace the fullness of life. Today's Scripture invites us to embrace God's purification so we can build a stronger culture of life.

A Cry for Mercy: The Grief Society Tries to Silence In today's Gospel, a man cries out to Jesus for healing while others try to silence him. This mirrors the forbidden grief that surrounds abortion—pain that society refuses to acknowledge. We reflect on how Jesus hears every cry for mercy, and how the Church offers compassion, forgiveness, and healing.

God Secures the Rights of His People: Jesus teaches that God is committed to securing the rights of His chosen ones. This truth strengthens our resolve in the pro-life mission, reminding us that God Himself defends the vulnerable—especially the unborn. Today's reflection invites us to trust in God's justice as we work to protect every human life.

Thirty-Third Sunday in Ordinary TimeLuke's Gospel account outlines Jesus description of how the end of the world will come about. Jesus' sobering words offers readers the opportunity to see two differing world views, the world created by man and the world created by God via the story of creation. Jesus makes it clear we will be martyr's before we become saints. A martyr by definition is a witness. People will be asked to make a public witness to the truth of our individuality as beloved sons and daughters. It's by our perseverance we will secure our lives.Scripture Readings for November 16, 2025Malachi 3:19-20Psalm 98:5-92 Thessalonians 3:7-12Luke 21:5-19 

Scripture Reading from Luke 11:33-36Sermon by Charles Anderson

As we continue our MESSY CHURCH study of First Corinthians, we come to a bunch of helpful and humbling reminders for a church family and for church leaders as Paul continues to dismantle the factions and unite the church around the Gospel.

The Power of Losing Yourself in Love: In today's Gospel, Jesus reminds us that those who truly love are willing to “lose” their lives. Real love means sacrifice, giving yourself for others, and trusting that God restores what we surrender. We reflect on how self-giving love builds a Culture of Life and reveals God's plan for redemption through sacrifice.

The Gospel proclaims that the Kingdom of God is among us, alive with truth, grace, strength, and transforming power. In this reflection, Frank Pavone explains how God's Kingdom brings clarity, restores hope, and offers the true antidote to abortion and the culture of death. This message shows how faith strengthens your mission, how Scripture guides daily pro life action, and how God's presence forms a culture that protects the unborn and heals wounded hearts. A focused message for prayer, clarity, and courage.

Gratitude for Lives Saved and Hearts Healed: In the Gospel, a healed leper returns to thank Jesus. Today we give thanks for the countless lives saved from abortion and the hearts healed through God's mercy. Gratitude strengthens our mission for life.

Scripture Reading from Luke 11: 29-32 (0:00)Sermon by Sam Haist (0:48)