POPULARITY
Categories
Romans 8 ends with some of the most quoted verses in the entire Bible — but familiarity doesn't always mean understanding. In this week's message, we take a close, honest look at what Paul actually means when he writes that "all things work together for good" and what it truly looks like to be "more than conquerors."We sit with the gap between the promises we hold and the circumstances we live — and discover that the problem isn't the promise. It's the definition of good we've been working from.
Some seasons feel like they're working against you — betrayal, loss, plans that fell apart, years that felt wasted. Genesis ends with a story that speaks directly to that feeling. Joseph, sold into slavery by his own brothers, falsely imprisoned, forgotten — and yet God was working the whole time. This message, closes our Faith Begins series with one of the most powerful truths in all of Scripture: Romans 8:28, that God causes all things to work together for good. Not easy — good. Not comfortable — right. And not just for a season, but for good, for all time. From the garden to the cross, from Abraham to Joseph to you, one unbroken thread of faithfulness runs through every page of Genesis. God keeps His promises. He doesn't overlook the overlooked — He uses them. He doesn't waste your story — He writes through it.CONNECT WITH US:→ Request Prayer: https://bit.ly/3zMyf5E→ Request Care: https://bit.ly/3fBTX5G→ Share a Testimony: https://bit.ly/3Jo7Ped→ Find Events and More: https://bit.ly/3TcrkcR→ Leave us a Review on Google: https://bit.ly/47925jP→ Plan a Visit in Person: https://bit.ly/3sfQdg7FOLLOW US:→ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/illuminatec...→ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@illuminate_ch...→ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/illuminatech...WE HELP PEOPLE FIND ABUNDANT LIFE IN JESUS!
SCRIPTURE- Romans 5:5"[A]nd hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out into our hearts through the holy Spirit that has been given to us."REFLECTION- PeggyMUSIC- "God of Day and God of Darkness" Instrumental- "Psalm 119 - Blessed Are They Who Follow The Law of the Lord" by Josh Blakesley - "The Spheres" by Tenebrae and The Chamber Orchestra Of LondonNOTES-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.
Our spring series is "Empowered: Understanding & Exercising Spiritual Gifts." This series will lay the foundation of what it looks like to live a life surrendered to God the Father and empowered by the Holy Spirit.This sermon looks at the role of spiritual gifts assessments in discovery our spiritual gifts and gives 6 considerations for how we might learn what gifts we've been given.Scripture: Romans 12:1-21
Join us as Kevin Jamison begins our new series, Life Together: A Study in Romans 12-16, by exploring God's vision for his people and what it truly means to be the church. In Romans 12:1-2, we'll see how the mercy of God forms the foundation of our life together — shaping us into a community that resists both idealism and cynicism, and is instead transformed by the story of Christ into a people marked by love, worship, and redemption.Scripture: Romans 12:1-2Pastor: Kevin Jamison
SCRIPTURE: Romans 8:1-17Preacher: Chris Porter
by Brooks Simpson | From the Series: Being Renewed Together | Scripture: Romans 12:6-8 | Download Audio
by Brooks Simpson | From the Series: Being Renewed Together | Scripture: Romans 12:6-8 | Download Audio
Sermon: Jesus: The Promised Person of the Gospel Date: 5/17/2026 Scripture: Romans 1:2-4 Speaker: Pastor John Core Series: The Book of Romans Resurrection Church Arizona www.reschurchaz.com
What do you do with the hardest passages in the Bible? In this episode, Dr. E responds to a listener wrestling with one of the biggest objections people have about Christianity: Why did God command the destruction of entire nations in the Old Testament? Dr. Easley walks through passages in Joshua, Deuteronomy, 1 Samuel, and 2 Kings while explaining the historical, theological, and spiritual context behind God's judgment against the Canaanites and other nations. This conversation explores God's sovereignty, justice, mercy, evil, idolatry, and why these passages still feel deeply difficult for believers today. Rather than avoiding the tension, this episode honestly addresses it—pointing listeners back to the holiness of God and ultimately to Jesus Christ, where justice and mercy meet at the cross. If you've ever struggled with difficult Bible passages or wondered how to answer skeptics who call God cruel or inconsistent, this episode is for you. Chapters 00:00 – Why These Passages Are So Difficult 01:52 – Understanding God's Judgment in the Old Testament 05:09 – The Wickedness of the Canaanites 08:02 – Does God Take Pleasure in Judgment? 10:18 – Justice, Mercy, and the Cross of Christ 13:15 – Wrestling With God's Sovereignty Key Topics Covered Why God commanded war in the Old Testament God's justice and sovereignty The wickedness of the Canaanites Mercy, holiness, and judgment Difficult Bible passages explained Spiritual warfare in Scripture Romans 9 and the sovereignty of God How the cross fulfills justice and mercy Answering skeptical objections to Christianity Wrestling honestly with difficult theology Links Mentioned: Is God a Moral Monster? by Paul Copan Find more episodes of Ask Dr. E here. If you've got a question for Dr. Easley, call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.
SCRIPTURE- Romans 6:8-9"If, then, we have died with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him. We know that Christ, raised from the dead, dies no more; death no longer has power over him."REFLECTION- SarahMUSIC- 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.
Sanctity of Life | Romans 5:6–8In this message, we look at the sanctity of human life through the authority of Scripture and the heart of the gospel.On Mother's Day, Wonder Church partnered with Love Life to pray, fast, give, and take practical steps toward creating a culture of love and life. This message addresses the difficult questions surrounding abortion, the value of the unborn, the responsibility of the Church, and the hope of the gospel for every person.Scripture teaches that God sees life in the womb as known, formed, valued, and purposed. From Jeremiah 1 to Psalm 139 to Luke 1, we see that unborn life is not hidden from God, forgotten by God, or less valuable to God. But this message does not stop at conviction. It also calls the Church to compassion, action, and care for mothers, fathers, children, orphans, and families in crisis.The heart of the message is Romans 5:6–8: while we were utterly helpless, Christ came for us. Just as the unborn are helpless, we were helpless in our sin. And just as life requires sacrifice, Jesus gave His life so that we could live.This is not only a message about life in the womb. It is a message about the gospel, the authority of Scripture, and the call of the Church to love both mother and child with truth, compassion, and courage.In this message: Why Christians build their worldview from Scripture, not culture What the Bible teaches about life in the womb How to think biblically about difficult and painful situations Why caring for orphans, widows, and vulnerable families is part of the sanctity of life How the gospel reveals God's heart for the helpless Practical ways to respond through prayer, fasting, giving, and action Scripture: Romans 5:6–8 Message Title: Sanctity of Life Partner: Love Life Theme: Life, compassion, Scripture, and the gospel
Our spring series is "Empowered: Understanding & Exercising Spiritual Gifts." This series will lay the foundation of what it looks like to live a life surrendered to God the Father and empowered by the Holy Spirit.This sermon puts together the pieces we've been talking about for the past few weeks and casts a vision for the life we are called and empowered to live.Scripture: Romans 8:1-17
by Jason Blackley | From the Series: Being Renewed Together | Scripture: Romans 12:1-5 | Download Audio
by Jason Blackley | From the Series: Being Renewed Together | Scripture: Romans 12:1-5 | Download Audio
by Brooks Simpson | From the Series: Being Renewed Together | Scripture: Romans 12:1-5 | Download Audio
by Brooks Simpson | From the Series: Being Renewed Together | Scripture: Romans 12:1-5 | Download Audio
SCRIPTURE- Romans 8:1"Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus."REFLECTION- JacksonMUSIC- I Will Praise Your name Forever by Chris Muglia- Hearing the Harvest by We Dream of Eden & Anita TatlowNOTES-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- Romans 6:6"We know that our old self was crucified with him in order that the body of sin might be brought to nothing, so that we would no longer be enslaved to sin."REFLECTION- PeggyMUSIC- "Loving and Forgiving are You, O Lord" by 7pm Sunday ChgoirNOTES-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.
Mark Collins explores essential foundational beliefs before going on mission. After 25 years leading West Shanghai Baptist Church in China, Collins recalls his own pivotal moment at age 22 when a speaker mentioned China's long spiritual hunger. Before accepting a cross-cultural call, believers must solidify their foundational theological commitments. Clarity about what you believe regarding Christ, Scripture, the gospel becomes your anchor in challenging contexts. Examine your core convictions about Jesus, Scripture, and the gospel before pursuing any significant ministry calling. Scripture: Romans 3:21-25 Topics: Missions, China, Calling, Theology, Cross-cultural Ministry
Biblical Talks Most people know the saying, "Birds of a feather flock together," often used to describe spending time with others who exhibit negative behaviors. The reality is the people we surround ourselves with can greatly influence our lives—for better or worse—and sometimes that influence can lead to tragedy. In this episode of Biblical Talks, SD and Lady V discuss John 15:1-6 in the New King James Version, where Jesus calls Himself the vine and explains that those who remain in Him, and He in them, will bear much fruit. Hence, a connection to Jesus is imperative. So, let's be sure to stay connected to the vine. With that in mind, have you read John 15:1-6 New King James Version? If so -- what are your thoughts? If not, no worries, we've got you covered. In any case, join us with your Bible or Bible app. Also, go ahead and use the player at the top of this blog post or subscribe and listen via your preferred podcast platform to follow along. Then get encouraged by joining SD and Lady V in this Biblical Talk — Stay Connected to the Vine. Scriptures Referenced in Episode Discussion John 15:1-6 NKJV Galatians 5:22-25 Matthew 22:36-40 NKJV John 3:16-17 Romans 10:9-10 Numbers 6:24-26 Receive your Free Gift of Salvation – The Gospel of Jesus Christ Explanation If you are reading this, it is not by chance. This is your time to receive the Gift of Salvation through Christ Jesus. Now, you may be wondering, "Why do I need that?" Oh, I'm so glad you asked. The Bible says, that because Adam ate fruit from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil -- he released sin into the world. And ultimately, Adam's sin brought death and death spread to everyone. No doubt, you may be thinking, "Of course, everyone is going to die." But, my question to you is "Where will you spend eternity?" Because there is life after death. In fact, when you die you go to one of two places -- heaven or hell. Also, it is important to understand that Adam's sin also brought an eternity in hell. But for those who choose not to receive the free gift of eternal life. Thus, you must make that choice before you take your last breath. Romans 5:17 New Living Translation says, “For the sin of this one man, Adam, caused death to rule over many. But even greater is God's wonderful grace and his gift of righteousness, for all who receive it will live in triumph over sin and death through this one man, Jesus Christ.” To sum it all up, Romans 6:23 New Living Translation says, “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord.” So, if you are reading this, don't let another day go by without receiving this life-changing gift. Scripture Romans 10:8-10 New Living Translation says, “8 …“The message is very close at hand; it is on your lips and in your heart.” And that message is the very message about faith that we preach: 9 If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by openly declaring your faith that you are saved.” Salvation Prayer Lord Jesus, I am a sinner, and I am sorry for my sins. I ask You to forgive me. I want to follow You, Jesus. I believe in my heart that God raised You from the dead. By faith, I ask You to be my Lord and Savior. Thank you, Lord Jesus, for your gift of grace and for eternity with You. Listen to We R S.H.E.Talks Podcast Use the web player above this blog post to listen or subscribe and listen via your favorite podcast platform. Bible Study Resources Holy Bible [NLT, NIV, ESV, NASB, NKJV, KJV] Bible App by YouVersion NLT Chronological Life Application Study Bible Read the Bible Online – Bible Gateway Read the Bible and Commentaries Online – Bible Hub Checkout Logos Bible Study Platform Read Living by the Book: The Art and Science of Reading the Bible by Howard G. Hendricks Do you have questions about whether or not the Christianity is true? Then checkout the following books: The Case for Christ: A Journalist's Personal Investigation of the Evidence for Jesus by Lee Strobel Cold-Case Christianity: A Homicide Detective Investigates the Claims of the Gospels by J. Warner Wallace Stealing from God: Why Atheists Need God to Make Their Case by Frank Turek Evidence That Demands a Verdict: Life-Changing Truth for a Skeptical World by Josh McDowell and Sean McDowell Christ-Centered Grace Ministries Check out the following biblical teaching from a Christ-centered perspective: Stand to Reason - str.org BibleThinker – biblethinker.org The Beat – allenparr.com Cold Case Christianity – coldcasechristianity.com We R S.H.E.Talks Podcast episodes you may enjoy HIM: The Importance of God's Presence – S3E17 Let It Go and Receive God's Best – S2E20 Eternity Awaits – S2E17 Identity Crisis–Do You Know Who You Are? S2E10 Ask your questions or share your feedback Comment on the episode [share your experience or testimony] Email feedback Follow and like us on Social Media Take our short Audience Survey Check out these links spreadinghopeeverywheretalks.com Devotionals and Prayer by Lady V Get Merch with Positive Messaging Credits Music by Joakim Karud
Scripture: Romans 5:12-21Preacher: Colton Fremont
by Brooks Simpson | From the Series: Being Renewed Together | Scripture: Romans 12:1 | Download Audio
by Brooks Simpson | From the Series: Being Renewed Together | Scripture: Romans 12:1 | Download Audio
Send us Fan MailWhat if the most important thing about you… is something that can never change?In Romans 8:31–39, we find one of the most powerful promises in all of Scripture: nothing can separate us from the love of God.In the final week of our Set Free series, Kevin Syes walks through this truth and shows how your identity in Christ shapes everything about your life.Because before behavior ever changes— identity comes first.And when you understand who you are in Christ, it changes how you live.In this message, we explore: • What it means to be more than a conqueror • Why God's love is unshakable • How identity drives transformationNo matter what you face— you are not alone, and you are not defeated.
+website www.bishinthenow.com +Youtube – BishInTheNow Bishop Jim’s insightful messages help others find THEIR METRON through M~otivation E~nlightenment T~ranscendence R~enewal O~utreach and N~etworking Watch the video on Facebook: Here Watch the video on Youtube : Here Follow Jim Swilley on Facebook to see the videos live Sundays at 11 am – https://www.youtube.com/bishinthenow In this powerful Metron message, Bishop Jim Swilley teaches that many of life's struggles come from living reactively instead of proactively. Centered around the phrase “the head and not the tail” from Deuteronomy 28, he explains that we are not meant to simply survive circumstances, wait for rescue, or be victims of life. Instead, we are called to change the energy of our situations through gratitude, vision, action, and spiritual alignment. By seeking the kingdom first, reframing challenges, and making intentional moves, we can shift outcomes and step into blessing, peace, and personal authority. Main Takeaway Points 1. You Are Not Meant to Live Reactively Bishop teaches that too many people spend their lives responding to crisis after crisis instead of leading their own lives with intention. “You're the one you've been waiting for.” — Bishop Jim Swilley Instead of asking who will save you, realize that strength, wisdom, and answers are already within you. Scripture: Deuteronomy 28:13“The Lord shall make thee the head, and not the tail…” 2. Seek Spiritual Alignment First He connects Deuteronomy 28 with Matthew 6:33, explaining that when you prioritize inner peace, kingdom awareness, and righteousness first, other areas begin to come into order. “Seek the spiritual life first, and everything else follows suit.” — Bishop Jim Swilley Scripture: Matthew 6:33“Seek ye first the kingdom of God… and all these things shall be added unto you.” 3. Change the Narrative of Your Situation Bishop shares personal stories about aging, caring for parents, and life transitions. Instead of sinking into discouragement, he reframed those moments into opportunities for creativity, gratitude, and growth. He teaches that one shift in perspective can unlock blessing. Scripture: Romans 12:2“Be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” 4. Gratitude Attracts What Complaining Cannot He emphasizes that waiting until things improve before being thankful keeps people stuck. Gratitude changes momentum. “You have to go ahead and express gratitude, and then the things that you should be grateful for will be attracted to you.” — Bishop Jim Swilley Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 5:18“In everything give thanks…” 5. Start Small, But Start Now You may not solve everything today, but you can begin. Make one call. Pay one debt. Change one habit. Take one step. “You can't do it all today, but you can get started.” — Bishop Jim Swilley Scripture: Zechariah 4:10“Do not despise these small beginnings.” Strongest Quote “You are not a victim. You are a victor.” — Bishop Jim Swilley Final Encouragement This message is a reminder that life changes when you stop waiting for circumstances to improve and start leading from within. You are blessed, equipped, creative, and capable. Take one intentional step today, and let momentum meet you there.
Send us Fan MailWhat does God do with our pain?Suffering is one of the hardest realities of life—and one of the biggest questions people wrestle with in their faith.In Romans 8:17–28, we see a powerful and unique perspective: suffering is not meaningless, and it is not the end of the story.In Week 6 of our Set Free series, we explore:• The unique view of suffering in Christianity• The resource God gives us in suffering• How to access hope in the middle of painGod doesn't ignore suffering.And He doesn't waste it either.Even in the hardest moments, He is working for your good.
SCRIPTURE - Romans 5:6"For while we were still weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly."REFLECTION - Mary EllynMUSIC - "All Creatures of Our God and King" Instrumental- "Poetry Piano" by Michelle Nobler- "Confidence" by Sanctus RealNOTES - PRAYER OF LETTING GO To 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.
Heavenly Father, help us to follow the unique path you have for each of us.Scripture: Romans 16:1-2Keywords: Phoebe; honor; ministry; community; diversity;
Jesus, because of you I am free from condemnation.Scripture: Romans 8:1Keywords: Condemned; redeemed; covered; cleansed; purpose; transformation.
Most of us treat the gospel like a starting line — something you cross once and then move on from. But Romans 5 tells a different story.In this week's message from Romans 5:1–11, we dig into three things that are already true for everyone who has been justified by faith: you have peace with God (not just a feeling of peace — the real thing), you have a reason to hold on through suffering, and you already have everything you need in Christ.This episode is for anyone who's been striving to earn what God has already given, or who's in a hard season and wondering if he's still near.
Family dynamics can get complicated quickly, especially when expectations, boundaries, and communication styles start to clash. Today we're talking about how to navigate tension with extended family without losing your peace (or your voice.) We hope you'll walk away with practical ways to communicate clearly, pursue peace, and love your extended family well.Episode Recap:Moms can easily get stuck in the middle of family conflicts (1:59)I'm stuck in the middle of conflicts between my mom and my husband, help! (4:02)My MIL is extremely difficult, even mean and petty toward me (7:47)How can I be good friends with my mother in law and still have boundaries? (11:30)How can grandparents be closer to the grandchildren of divorced parents? (14:33)Join us for more questions on WT+ - link in show notes! (18:00) Scripture: Romans 12:18 (NIV) “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”Discussion Questions: Where do you feel the most tension right now with extended family or in-laws? What makes that situation difficult?Do you tend to avoid conflict or confront it quickly? How does your temperament affect the way you handle family tension?Are you currently acting as a “middleman” in any relationships? What would it look like to step out of that role in a healthy way?What does it look like to “live at peace…as far as it depends on you” in your current situation?What is one practical step you can take this week to improve communication or reduce tension in a family relationship?Resources:Become a WT+ Insider today! boaw.mom/insiderCheck out Boundaries by Dr. Henry Cloud & Dr. John TownsendListen to a past episode on boundaries with familyDownload our FREE temperaments packetWant More of This Conversation?On WT+ today we are answering more questions about extended family - how to make vacations and extended time together work well - and Karen shares her insights on keeping family connected and what to do when someone pulls away.Head HERE and join us for the full conversation.
Today's Scripture: Romans 8:31There is a God who is real, who knows you and cares about you.He loves you so much that He came into this world and gave Himself to stand in the gap for you.
Send us Fan MailThere is more to Easter than a moment in history—it's a verdict over your life.Romans 8:1 declares one of the most powerful truths in all of Scripture:“There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”In this Easter message, Senior Pastor Reid Robinette walks through what the resurrection really means—not just that Jesus is alive, but that your guilt, your shame, and your past no longer define you.Because of Jesus:The verdict is in.The sentence is gone.And the freedom is real.Join us for Week 4 of our Set Free series as we celebrate the hope and freedom found in the resurrection.
SCRIPTURE- Romans 8:32“He who did not spare His own son, but gave Him up for us all – how will He not also, along with Him, graciously give us all things?”REFLECTION- JeffMUSIC- "Be Not Afraid" by The O'Neill Brothers Group- "Lord, In Your Great Love" (Psalm 69) by Songs In His Presence- "Turn to Me" by Lori WernerNOTES- Blog: From Holy Thursday to Easter: The Meaning of the Sacred Triduum by Fr. Chris Robinson, C.M.- Lent: Check out the LENT page on The God Minute website to find out more about our programming for this week.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.
How to remain hopeful when life feels like it's falling apart? How to remain hopeful when what you trusted doesn't hold—and everything feels more fragile than you expected?In Part 3 of When The World Breaks, we wrestle with a question that hits close to home: how do you maintain hope in a hopelessly broken world?At some point, all of us experience the moment when the “wall” we leaned our life against starts to crumble. A relationship doesn't last. A career doesn't fulfill. A dream slips through your hands. And you're left wondering… what now?This message helps you understand why that happens—and where real hope is actually found.You'll discover:Why the world feels more broken than we expectedThe “ladder and wall” picture that explains misplaced hopeWhy even good things can let you downWhat Romans 8 reveals about suffering and frustrationHow to anchor your hope in something that won't collapseWhat it means that God is truly FOR youThis isn't about pretending everything is okay. It's about finding a kind of hope that doesn't disappear when life gets hard.Because the truth is—everything in this world can shift. But there is a love that never will.
Scripture: Romans 1:18-25+ Creation reveals God's glory Acts14:11-17“The universe, which to the atheist is full of darkness and confusion, to the Christian, is resplendent with light and glory.” – Archibald Alexander + Jesus reveals New CreationRomans 8:20-23+ The Church reveals Christ to the World
Jesus, help me to see myself and others through your eyes. Keywords: Mirror; self; judgement; honesty; transformation; humility. Scripture: Romans 12:3A helpful resource just for you: The Spirit-Led Heart: Living in faith and love without borders by Suzanne Eller