Podcasts about shepherds

Click here for the DRB Daily Sign Up form! TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: Ezekiel 47–48; Luke 2 Click HERE to give! One Year Bible Podcast: Join Hunter and Heather Barnes on the Daily Radio Bible, a daily Bible‑in‑a‑year podcast with 20‑minute Scripture readings, Christ‑centered devotion, and guided prayer.This daily Bible reading and devotional invites you to live as a citizen of Jesus' kingdom, reconciled, renewed, and deeply loved. TODAY'S EPISODE: Welcome to the Daily Radio Bible. Today is September 19th, and our readings are Ezekiel 47–48 and Luke 2. Ezekiel gives us a beautiful vision of a river flowing from the temple. Everywhere the river goes, life appears. Trees grow along its banks, fruit comes month after month, and even the waters of the Dead Sea become fresh. It is a picture of the life of God flowing outward, bringing healing and restoration wherever it goes. Then Luke brings us to Bethlehem. Jesus is born. Angels announce good news of great joy. Shepherds hurry to see the child and then tell everyone what they have seen and heard. And amid all this activity, Luke tells us something quietly beautiful about Mary. She treasured these things and pondered them in her heart. Mary doesn't understand everything that is happening to her. She cannot possibly know where this story will lead. Yet she makes room within herself for mystery. She stores these things in her heart. Today we are invited to do the same. There are things in our lives we cannot yet understand. There are hopes still unfulfilled, questions still unanswered, wounds still healing, and stories whose endings we cannot yet see. We don't have to solve them all today. We can hold them before God. We can treasure what we have been given. And we can trust that the God who sees us, knows us, and loves us is still at work in our story. TODAY'S DEVOTION: She Stored These Things in Her Heart She stored it in her heart. That's what Luke tells us Mary did in the midst of miracle, mystery, and uncertainty. There was the promise. There was the fear. There was the joy. And there were things that simply didn't make sense. Mary didn't explain them away. She didn't deny them. She didn't pretend to understand what she couldn't understand. She held them. She treasured them. She stored them in her heart. And I think there is something here for us. God doesn't always give us explanations. There are things in life that simply don't make sense. Things that cause us to wonder. Things that cause us to worry. Things that hurt. There are prayers that seem unanswered. Dreams that haven't come to pass. Losses we don't understand. Relationships that haven't turned out the way we hoped. Questions about our future. Questions about ourselves. Questions about God. And maybe faith isn't always about finding an explanation. Maybe sometimes faith looks like Mary. We simply hold these things before God. We store them in our hearts. Mary did that when shepherds showed up with stories about angels declaring that her child was the Messiah. She stored it away. She did it again when Simeon spoke over Jesus in the temple and then told Mary that a sword would pierce her own soul. She held that too. And years later, when twelve-year-old Jesus remained behind in his Father's house, Luke tells us that Mary didn't understand what Jesus meant. But again, she stored these things in her heart. There was a willingness in Mary to let the story unfold. She didn't have to know everything. She didn't have to control everything. She didn't have to understand everything. She trusted that God was present. She trusted that she was seen. She trusted that she was known. She trusted that she was loved. And she trusted that somehow God's purpose was still unfolding. Maybe that's where you are today. What are you storing in your heart? An unfulfilled hope? A disappointment? A loss? A question? Something beautiful that you don't yet understand? Something painful that you wish you could understand? You don't have to solve it today. You can hold it. You can bring it before God. You can allow your heart to become a vessel for mystery, hope, pain, memory, promise, and faith. And you can remember this: You are seen. You are known. You are loved. Paul says that we are God's workmanship. The Greek word is poiēma. We are God's workmanship, God's handiwork, God's poem. Your story isn't finished. God is still at work. So perhaps today we can learn something from Mary. Be willing. Be available. Hold the mystery. Store these things in your heart. And trust that the One who loves you is still writing the story. That's the prayer I have for my own soul. That's the prayer I have for my family, for my wife, my daughters, and my son. And that's the prayer I have for you. May we, like Mary, store these things in our hearts, trusting that in God's time and through God's love, the story will be revealed. May it be so. TODAY'S PRAYERS: Lord God Almighty and everlasting father you have brought us in safety to this new day preserve us with your Mighty power that we might not fall into sin or be overcome by adversity. And in all we do, direct us to the fulfilling of your purpose  through Jesus Christ Our Lord amen.   Oh God you have made of one blood all the peoples of the earth and sent your blessed son to preach peace to those who are far and those who are near. Grant that people everywhere may seek after you, and find you. Bring the nations into your fold, pour out your Spirit on all flesh, and hasten the coming of your kingdom through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.   And now Lord,  make me an instrument of your peace.  Where there is hatred let me sow love. Where there is injury, pardon.  Where there is doubt, faith. Where there is despair, hope.  Where there is darkness, light.  And where there is sadness,  Joy.  Oh Lord grant that I might not seek to be consoled as to console. To be understood as to understand, to be loved as to love.  For it is in the giving that we receive, in the pardoning that we are pardoned, it is in the dying that we are born unto eternal life.  Amen And now as our Lord has taught us we are bold to pray... Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our tresspasses as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not unto temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the Kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. Loving God, we give you thanks for restoring us in your image. And nourishing us with spiritual food, now send us forth as forgiven people, healed and renewed, that we may proclaim your love to the world, and continue in the risen life of Christ.  Amen.  OUR WEBSITE: www.dailyradiobible.com We are reading through the New Living Translation.   Leave us a voicemail HERE: https://www.speakpipe.com/dailyradiobible Subscribe to us at YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Dailyradiobible/featured OTHER PODCASTS: Listen with Apple Podcast DAILY BIBLE FOR KIDS DAILY PSALMS DAILY PROVERBS DAILY LECTIONARY DAILY CHRONOLOGICAL  

Paul proves to be an exemplary leader in the church. What can we learn from him?Reading Plan: Worship - Psalm 107:33-43Wisdom - Proverbs 22:26-27Witness - Acts 18-20Visit https://www.revivalfromthebible.com/ for more information.

Faithful pastoral leadership is not built on celebrity, personality, or platform. Dave Jenkins explains the biblical calling of pastors and elders to feed, protect, serve, and lead Christ's flock with humility. This episode considers why the church needs shepherds who exalt Christ and remain faithful to God's Word. For more from Equipping You in Grace, visit https://servantsofgrace.org/equipping-you-in-grace-2/

"In sickness and in health" is easy to say when you're standing in a white dress surrounded by flowers.Megan Basham — Daily Wire reporter and bestselling author of Shepherds for Sale — was diagnosed with colorectal cancer in 2024, later classified as stage four. In this Wife School episode, she talks about what happens when the "in sickness" part stops being hypothetical: the obsession with survival statistics, the fear of not being there when her daughters marry, and how much easier it is to talk about trusting God when you don't believe you're dying. We also get into the part nobody prepares you for — being cared for by a husband who can't fix it.Thank you to our sponsors!SAVA: Use code "ALEXCLARK" for 15% offGEVITI: Use code "ALEX" to get 20% off of your first purchaseTECH WELLNESS: Use code "ALEX" for 15% off EMF-Free Air Tube Headphones, Faraday Bags, and EMF Protection PacksJOOVV: Get an exclusive discount on your first red light therapy orderA'DEL NATURAL COSMETICS: Use code "ALEX" for 25% off first time ordersWILD PASTURES: Get an exclusive discount on your next orderOur Guest:Megan BashamMegan's Links: Her InstagramHer FaceBookHer XFOLLOW ALEX:Alex's InstagramCulture Apothecary's InstagramAlex's YouTubeAlex's FacebookAlex's X

This week at Park Church, Pastor Brad taught from 1 Peter 5. We learned that Jesus wants pastors to lead His people well. As we walked through this important scripture together, we examined three commitments a pastor makes to lead God's people well. This was also a wonderful time, as a church family, to hear the vision for the direction we want to head over the next five years! We are glad you are listening! We would love to see you in person! We meet every Sunday at 10:30 am. We are located at:1701 E 33rd StDes Moines, IA 50317 This message is from 9/13/26

Our text today is 1 Peter 5:3-4: not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock. And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory. — 1 Peter 5:3-4 Peter never forgot the night Jesus picked up a towel. John tells us that Jesus knew the Father had given all things into His hands. He knew where He had come from and where He was going. Yet those hands did not grasp for greater status. They removed His outer garment, tied a towel around His waist, and washed the feet of His disciples. The One with absolute authority used it to serve. In that moment, Peter resisted because he did not yet understand how authority worked in the kingdom of God. But years later, that scene shaped the way he taught leaders here. Yesterday, as we began this final chapter together, Peter told us that Christian leaders are shepherds. The people under their care belong to God, not to them. Today he moves from the leader's assignment to the leader's example. Peter writes: "Not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock." Shepherds must lead. But Christian authority must never become a tool for intimidation, manipulation, control, or self-preservation. The world measures authority by how many people report to you. Jesus measures it by how willingly you serve the people entrusted to you. Peter had heard Jesus say, "The rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them" (Matthew 20:25). Then Jesus added, "It shall not be so among you" (Matthew 20:26). And I would assume Peter remembered that, because he echoes that lesson. Instead of dominating people, leaders are to become "examples to the flock." The word translated "example" bears the picture of a "model." Every model leaves an imprint. People may listen to your instructions, but they learn from your patterns. They watch how you handle criticism, how you respond under pressure, how you treat your family, how you speak about people who are absent, and what you do when you are wrong. Your life models even when your mouth is closed. This does not imply Christian leaders must present themselves as flawless. Peter certainly could not. Being a model means living a life that others can follow toward Christ. Sometimes that means demonstrating courage, sacrifice, prayer, and obedience. At other times, the most powerful example is saying: "I was wrong." Or "Forgive me." Then Peter turns our minds toward the future: "And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory." Every Christian leader remains under authority. Pastors have a Pastor. Shepherds have a Shepherd. Leaders have a Lord. Jesus is the Chief Shepherd, and He will return. That truth is both comforting and sobering. It is comforting because the church does not ultimately rest on any human leader's strength. It is sobering because every leader will answer to Christ for how he treated the people placed in his care. But Christ promises an unfading crown to those who faithfully serve His flock. Peter, of course, is speaking directly to church elders, but the principle reaches all of us who carry influence. You may lead a family, a business, a ministry, a team, a classroom, or one younger believer. Somewhere, someone is learning from the way you use authority. Authority in the kingdom is not a ladder to climb. It is a towel to pick up. A leader worth following does not merely point toward Jesus from a distance. They walk toward Jesus so others can see their steps. And tomorrow, Peter will show us the garment every leader—and every believer—must wear if we are going to live this way: Humility. DO THIS: Choose one relationship in which you carry authority or influence. Ask yourself what your current example is teaching that person about following Jesus. Then take one visible action today that models service, repentance, patience, or obedience. ASK THIS: Do the people under my influence feel served and strengthened—or controlled and diminished? What pattern am I setting through the way I respond to pressure, criticism, and failure? Am I more concerned about recognition from people or approval from the Chief Shepherd? PRAY THIS: Chief Shepherd, thank You for every person You have entrusted to my influence. Forgive me for the times I have used authority to protect my ego, secure control, or demand recognition. Teach me to lead as Jesus led—with truth, courage, humility, and service. Make my life a faithful pattern that helps others follow You. Amen. PLAY THIS: "Only Jesus."

Our text today is 1 Peter 5:1-2: So I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, as well as a partaker in the glory that is going to be revealed: shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; — 1 Peter 5:1-2 Leadership becomes dangerous the moment we forget whom the people belong to. For four chapters, Peter has been teaching us how believers stand firm under pressure. Now, as we enter the final chapter of this letter together, he turns toward the elders who care for God's people. A suffering church needed leaders who would protect, nourish, and strengthen them—not leaders who would use them. Peter could have introduced himself with an impressive list of credentials. Remember, he was an apostle, a member of Jesus' inner circle, a witness of the transfiguration, and the preacher at Pentecost. Instead, Peter calls himself "a fellow elder." He does not speak as a celebrity standing above them. He speaks as a shepherd standing with them. Peter has early-church authority, but grace has changed how he holds it. Then he gives the elders their assignment: "Shepherd the flock of God that is among you." Four words are operative here: The flock of God. The people did not belong to Peter. They did not belong to the local elders. They did not belong to anyone but God. Leaders may be entrusted with people, but they never own them. The moment a leader begins thinking in terms of my church, my ministry, my audience, or my people, leadership can quietly shift from stewardship to possession. Peter learned this lesson. Remember, the risen Christ met him beside the Sea of Galilee. And when he reinstated him, Jesus said: "Tend my sheep." — John 21:16 The shepherding language used here to the elders is the same language. And the pronoun remained important: these were God's sheep, not Peter's sheep. He learned that lesson and now passes that theology and responsibility to other leaders. But he does not address only their work. He addresses their motives. They must shepherd "not under compulsion, but willingly." I think leadership can begin as a calling and slowly become an obligation. Ministry can become a schedule to survive. People can begin feeling like interruptions, problems, or burdens rather than souls entrusted to our care. Peter is not shaming exhausted leaders. Shepherds need rest, encouragement, and care too. But he is confronting the resentment that can grow when we serve merely because we feel trapped by expectations. God's people need more than the physical presence of a reluctant leader. They need the willing care of a shepherd. Peter also says leaders must serve "not for shameful gain, but eagerly." That gain may involve money, but it can also take subtler forms: recognition, influence, loyalty, control, applause, or personal significance. Christian leadership is distorted when people are treated as fuel for a leader's ambition. A shepherd does not use the flock to feed himself. He feeds the flock. Although Peter is speaking first to church elders, the principle reaches every one of us who has been entrusted with influence. You may lead a family, a small group, a ministry, a business, a team, or one younger believer. Somewhere, someone is watching how you carry responsibility. Here is a question for us today: Do the people I lead feel cared for or managed? A good Christian leader remembers that people belong to God. He serves willingly because he loves Christ. He leads eagerly because caring for others is a sacred trust, not a means of personal gain. As we begin this final chapter of the letter, Peter starts with a key audience: Shepherds. Standing firm has never been an isolated journey. God often strengthens His people through faithful leaders who feed, guide, protect, and care for them. Tomorrow, Peter will take us one step further. He will show us that a shepherd's authority is not established through control. It is established through an example, a model. But today, let's remember where your leadership begins: they're the flock in your care. So do you care? DO THIS: Write down the names of three people God has entrusted to your influence. Pray for each person specifically, then choose one practical way to encourage, guide, protect, or spiritually nourish one of them today. ASK THIS: Do I view the people I lead as God's people—or as people who exist to support my plans? Am I serving willingly and eagerly, or has resentment begun shaping my leadership? What personal gain—recognition, control, approval, or influence—might be competing with my desire to serve? PRAY THIS: Father, thank You for every person You have entrusted to my influence. Forgive me for the times I have treated people as burdens, accomplishments, or tools for my own ambitions. Give me the willing heart of a shepherd. Help me care for Your people with humility, eagerness, and love, always remembering that they belong to You. Amen. PLAY THIS: "The Servant King."

When Shepherds Lose the Word, the Sheep Lose Their WaySeries: Judges: A Study of Faithfulness and FailureSpeaker: Pastor AndrewSunday MorningDate: 13th September 2026Passage: Judges 17:1-21:25-------------------Judges 17-21

A remarkable pattern runs throughout the Bible of the subverting of the normal line of succession, and its significance. The pastoral imagery of sheep and shepherds in the earlier books of the Bible, and the imagery of animal sacrifice, which we struggle to understand.

Our gifts are to be used in ___________, to ___________ people, and ___________ them to Jesus. [Ephesians 4.11-12] Now these are the gifts Christ gave to the church: the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, and the pastors and teachers. [12] Their responsibility is to equip God's people to do his work and build up the church, the body of Christ. A pastor is a _______________ of people. [Acts 20.28] “So guard yourselves and God's people. Feed and shepherd God's flock—his church, purchased with his own blood—over which the Holy Spirit has appointed you as leaders. Shepherds _______________ their sheep. [1 Peter 5:2] Care for the flock that God has entrusted to you. Watch over it willingly, not grudgingly—not for what you will get out of it, but because you are eager to serve God. A pastor is one who _______________ for and _______________ the sheep. Pastors are always willing to _______________. [Proverbs 11.25] The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed. Encouragers give _______________ to others. [1 Thessalonians 5.11] So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing. God shows mercy to the __________________. [Colossians 3.12-14] Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. [13] Make allowance for each other's faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. [14] Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony. Pastors often find _______________ people comes naturally.

Andrew, Isack, and Edwin discuss what stood out to them from Luke 2. They discuss several points. The title of the episode is connected to the written devo to which you can link below.Read the written devo that goes along with this episode by clicking here.    Let us know what you are learning or any questions you have. Email us at TextTalk@ChristiansMeetHere.org.    Join the Facebook community and join the conversation by clicking here. We'd love to meet you. Be a guest among the Christians who meet on Livingston Avenue. Click here to find out more. Michael Eldridge sang all four parts of our theme song. Find more from him by clicking here.   Thanks for talking about the text with us today.________________________________________________If the hyperlinks do not work, copy the following addresses and paste them into the URL bar of your web browser: Daily Written Devo: https://readthebiblemakedisciples.wordpress.com/?p=26732The Christians Who Meet on Livingston Avenue: http://www.christiansmeethere.org/Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/TalkAboutTheTextFacebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/texttalkMichael Eldridge: https://acapeldridge.com/ 

How can we be content when we feel like we do not have what we need? In this Beyond the Notes teaching, Pastor Peter Finch picks up where Sunday's study of Psalm 23 left off and turns to Paul's words in Philippians 4. He walks through three things contentment actually is: something we learn rather than achieve, something that does not erase the pain of hard seasons, and something that grows from the heart by the work of Christ's Spirit rather than from a change in circumstances. The takeaway is quietly freeing. Your contentment does not rest on what you have, but on who you have. If you have felt the pull of wanting more, or wondered whether Jesus is really enough in a lean season, Finch offers a biblical, unhurried way to rest in the Good Shepherd. Presented by McGregor Podcast 2026 Visit Our Website at McGregorPodcast.com There's a place for you here. Plan your first Sunday at mcgregor.net/plan-a-visit

Psalms - Songs of the King "The God Who Shepherds" (Psalm 23) Almost everyone knows Psalm 23, but knowing the words is not the same as knowing what they mean. In this interlude in the Psalms, Pastor Peter Finch walks through the God who shepherds His people in three ways: as our Pastor who leads and feeds us, as our Protector who walks with us through the valley of the shadow of death, and as our Provider who prepares a table, anoints our head, and fills our cup to overflowing. The promise "I shall not want" does not depend on our circumstances changing. It rests on the Shepherd who is with us, whose goodness and mercy follow us all the days of our life, and who welcomes His sheep into the house of the Lord forever. Sermon Notes September 6, 2026 Peter Finch • Administrative Pastor Presented by McGregor Podcast 2026 Visit Our Website at McGregorPodcast.com There's a place for you here. Plan your first Sunday at mcgregor.net/plan-a-visit

Sermon Notes Date: 09/06/2026 Preacher: Monty Simao, pastor Key Text: Hebrews 13:7, 17, 20–21 Description: What does Christ requireof those who shepherd His church — and what does He requireof the the sheep they are called to lead? Today on Scandia Bible Church Podcast,Pastor Monty Simao brings us a special momentin the life of our […]

Flock has been in the news recently in a backlash against municipal surveillance, but this technology has been in use for half a century. Why the problem now? We sat down to talk with a city commissioner from Del Ray Beach, Florida, Tom Markert, who also consults with the FBI on cybersecurity. He's something of a rennaissance man wh, in addition to his corporate and civic work, also writes thrillers and screenplay related to technology and government. He had some insight into the controversy and it is more than surveillance. It's about competence.

September 3rd, 2026:  St Pius X - An Image of Our Lady of Sorrows;  St Gregory the Great on Mary's Perpetual Virginity;  The Absolute Primacy of Christ;  St Pius X - Zealous in the Public Defense of Christ;  St Gregory the Great - Shepherd of Shepherds

I. Our diversity of gifting is designed for our unique time and place in the body of Christ, v11. II. Our diversity of gifting is to be in service of one another's spiritual health and service, v12. III. Our diversity of gifting is to be in service of one another's spiritual maturity, v13.

The Church's Leadership: Shepherds Under the Chief Shepherd: 1 Peter 5:1–4; Acts 20:28 | Josh Seely | 08.30.26 by Clear Water Church

When you speak hard biblical truth, pushback is guaranteed. On today's edition of Family Talk, award-winning journalist Megan Basham continues her candid conversation about her book, Shepherds for Sale, and the firestorm it sparked. She shares how a stage-four cancer diagnosis reshaped her fight, how her family weathered the criticism, and how God's timing carried her through. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/707/29?v=20251111

The church is facing pressures it can't afford to ignore. On today's edition of Family Talk, journalist and author Megan Basham shares her remarkable journey from covering Hollywood to investigating the political and financial forces shaping evangelical institutions. She opens up about her return to faith in Jesus Christ, along with her reporting for The Daily Wire, and the story behind her book, Shepherds for Sale. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/707/29?v=20251111

The sermon argues that the biblical offices of elder, overseer, and shepherd are identical roles within the church leadership structure. By analyzing passages in Acts, 1 Peter, and Ephesians, the speaker demonstrates that these terms describe the same men who are called to provide spiritual oversight and care for the congregation. The message strongly rejects modern corporate metaphors like CEO in favor of the biblical imagery of shepherding, emphasizing the necessity of pastoral presence and accountability. It highlights that true leadership involves not only teaching but also the intimate, hands-on care of the flock's spiritual well-being. Ultimately, the sermon affirms that elders are responsible for shepherding the local church with humility and faithfulness.

Joshijah walks us through Ephesians 4 as we discuss becoming Evangelists, Shepherds, and Teachers and growing in our love for the lost, the church, and the Word.

The sermon argues that the biblical offices of elder, overseer, and shepherd are identical roles within the church leadership structure. By analyzing passages in Acts, 1 Peter, and Ephesians, the speaker demonstrates that these terms describe the same men who are called to provide spiritual oversight and care for the congregation. The message strongly rejects modern corporate metaphors like CEO in favor of the biblical imagery of shepherding, emphasizing the necessity of pastoral presence and accountability. It highlights that true leadership involves not only teaching but also the intimate, hands-on care of the flock's spiritual well-being. Ultimately, the sermon affirms that elders are responsible for shepherding the local church with humility and faithfulness.

Fr. Mike explains the beautiful connections between all of our readings today. He emphasizes how good shepherds are willing to face the truth, and also sacrifice for their sheep, like Jesus who laid down his life for us. In our reading of Jeremiah, Fr. Mike also explains that the experience of shame points to the reality that there is something good within us that ought not to be violated. Today we read Jeremiah 6, Ezekiel 34-35, and Proverbs 14:25-28. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

Psalm 23 is the most popular song in Scripture because it provides us with peace. And while the images in the song are relaxing, the peace being offered has little to do with green grass and quiet waters. It has much more to do with what we see, or who we see, in the shadows.

Part of the Exiled Ambassadors series. Sermon by Pastor Nathan Alley The post Shepherds Clothed in Humility // 1 Peter 5:1-7 first appeared on Applewood Community Church.

Ordination Service for Creighton Smith

Welcome to the Christmas series! Joseph and Mary embark on a treacherous journey to Bethlehem. Joseph struggles to keep up his strength, and Mary makes a mistake that may cost them the entire journey.  Sign up for special devotionals at ⁠StoriesoftheMessiah.com⁠. As we dive deeply into iconic Bible heroes' enthralling narratives, we find more than just stories of faith and miracles. We discover a recurrent theme, a spiritual undertone that connects each tale to the grandeur of the Gospel. They're not just standalone legends; they're threads in a divine tapestry, weaving a story that foreshadows Jesus Christ, the ultimate hero, the promised Messiah who brings light to the darkest corners of history. For more Bible stories download the ⁠Pray.com⁠ app.  To learn more about Rabbi Schneider visit ⁠https://discoveringthejewishjesus.com/⁠  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jason Sterling August 11, 2026 Faith Presbyterian Church Birmingham, AL Thank you for listening! Please visit us at www.faith-pca.org. 

This study explores the delicate balance between solemn warning and ultimate triumph in Reformed theology by contrasting John Bunyan's scene at the Delectable Mountains—where the Shepherds soberly observe that "few show their face on these mountains"—with the historic debate over the total number of the redeemed. By examining the rigorous pastoral warnings of Puritans like John Owen, Thomas Shepard, and Jonathan Edwards alongside the expansive, victorious vision of B. B. Warfield, R. L. Dabney, and C. H. Spurgeon, this investigation harmonizes the local, searching reality of Matthew 7 ("narrow is the gate") with the global, eschatological promise of Revelation 7 ("an innumerable multitude"). Ultimately, it demonstrates how classic Reformed theology maintains both a rigorous call to self-examination against false assurance—as embodied in Bunyan's tragic character Ignorance—and an unshakeable confidence in the cosmic, vast scope of Christ's saving victory.

This study explores the delicate balance between solemn warning and ultimate triumph in Reformed theology by contrasting John Bunyan's scene at the Delectable Mountains—where the Shepherds soberly observe that "few show their face on these mountains"—with the historic debate over the total number of the redeemed. By examining the rigorous pastoral warnings of Puritans like John Owen, Thomas Shepard, and Jonathan Edwards alongside the expansive, victorious vision of B. B. Warfield, R. L. Dabney, and C. H. Spurgeon, this investigation harmonizes the local, searching reality of Matthew 7 ("narrow is the gate") with the global, eschatological promise of Revelation 7 ("an innumerable multitude"). Ultimately, it demonstrates how classic Reformed theology maintains both a rigorous call to self-examination against false assurance—as embodied in Bunyan's tragic character Ignorance—and an unshakeable confidence in the cosmic, vast scope of Christ's saving victory.

This study explores the delicate balance between solemn warning and ultimate triumph in Reformed theology by contrasting John Bunyan's scene at the Delectable Mountains—where the Shepherds soberly observe that "few show their face on these mountains"—with the historic debate over the total number of the redeemed. By examining the rigorous pastoral warnings of Puritans like John Owen, Thomas Shepard, and Jonathan Edwards alongside the expansive, victorious vision of B. B. Warfield, R. L. Dabney, and C. H. Spurgeon, this investigation harmonizes the local, searching reality of Matthew 7 ("narrow is the gate") with the global, eschatological promise of Revelation 7 ("an innumerable multitude"). Ultimately, it demonstrates how classic Reformed theology maintains both a rigorous call to self-examination against false assurance—as embodied in Bunyan's tragic character Ignorance—and an unshakeable confidence in the cosmic, vast scope of Christ's saving victory.

This study explores the delicate balance between solemn warning and ultimate triumph in Reformed theology by contrasting John Bunyan's scene at the Delectable Mountains—where the Shepherds soberly observe that "few show their face on these mountains"—with the historic debate over the total number of the redeemed. By examining the rigorous pastoral warnings of Puritans like John Owen, Thomas Shepard, and Jonathan Edwards alongside the expansive, victorious vision of B. B. Warfield, R. L. Dabney, and C. H. Spurgeon, this investigation harmonizes the local, searching reality of Matthew 7 ("narrow is the gate") with the global, eschatological promise of Revelation 7 ("an innumerable multitude"). Ultimately, it demonstrates how classic Reformed theology maintains both a rigorous call to self-examination against false assurance—as embodied in Bunyan's tragic character Ignorance—and an unshakeable confidence in the cosmic, vast scope of Christ's saving victory.

This study explores the delicate balance between solemn warning and ultimate triumph in Reformed theology by contrasting John Bunyan's scene at the Delectable Mountains—where the Shepherds soberly observe that "few show their face on these mountains"—with the historic debate over the total number of the redeemed. By examining the rigorous pastoral warnings of Puritans like John Owen, Thomas Shepard, and Jonathan Edwards alongside the expansive, victorious vision of B. B. Warfield, R. L. Dabney, and C. H. Spurgeon, this investigation harmonizes the local, searching reality of Matthew 7 ("narrow is the gate") with the global, eschatological promise of Revelation 7 ("an innumerable multitude"). Ultimately, it demonstrates how classic Reformed theology maintains both a rigorous call to self-examination against false assurance—as embodied in Bunyan's tragic character Ignorance—and an unshakeable confidence in the cosmic, vast scope of Christ's saving victory.

This study explores the delicate balance between solemn warning and ultimate triumph in Reformed theology by contrasting John Bunyan's scene at the Delectable Mountains—where the Shepherds soberly observe that "few show their face on these mountains"—with the historic debate over the total number of the redeemed. By examining the rigorous pastoral warnings of Puritans like John Owen, Thomas Shepard, and Jonathan Edwards alongside the expansive, victorious vision of B. B. Warfield, R. L. Dabney, and C. H. Spurgeon, this investigation harmonizes the local, searching reality of Matthew 7 ("narrow is the gate") with the global, eschatological promise of Revelation 7 ("an innumerable multitude"). Ultimately, it demonstrates how classic Reformed theology maintains both a rigorous call to self-examination against false assurance—as embodied in Bunyan's tragic character Ignorance—and an unshakeable confidence in the cosmic, vast scope of Christ's saving victory.

This study explores the delicate balance between solemn warning and ultimate triumph in Reformed theology by contrasting John Bunyan's scene at the Delectable Mountains—where the Shepherds soberly observe that "few show their face on these mountains"—with the historic debate over the total number of the redeemed. By examining the rigorous pastoral warnings of Puritans like John Owen, Thomas Shepard, and Jonathan Edwards alongside the expansive, victorious vision of B. B. Warfield, R. L. Dabney, and C. H. Spurgeon, this investigation harmonizes the local, searching reality of Matthew 7 ("narrow is the gate") with the global, eschatological promise of Revelation 7 ("an innumerable multitude"). Ultimately, it demonstrates how classic Reformed theology maintains both a rigorous call to self-examination against false assurance—as embodied in Bunyan's tragic character Ignorance—and an unshakeable confidence in the cosmic, vast scope of Christ's saving victory.

Under Shepherds Randy Bare

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Join Neil Epler in this enlightening sermon exploring Ezekiel chapters 33 to 36. Delve into the roles of watchmen and shepherds as depicted in the Bible, and discover the themes of judgment, hope, and restoration. Understand the importance of being a watchman in today's world, proclaiming the good news and fulfilling God's call. This sermon encourages Christians to embrace their responsibilities as shepherds and ambassadors for Christ, sharing the message of reconciliation and spiritual renewal.

What did you think? Text us by clicking here! We are unable to reply on this app, so include phone # or email address.This episode is the first in a series featuring recordings from the fifth OPC National Diaconal Summit (NDS), released by the OPC Committee on Diaconal Ministries.In this opening plenary session, Bob Keys became the first deacon actively serving in a local Orthodox Presbyterian Church to address an OPC National Diaconal Summit as a plenary speaker. He introduced a theme that would resonate throughout the Summit: the ministry of mercy is not simply the work of deacons; rather, deacons help lead the entire church in showing the mercy and compassion of Christ.Speaking to more than 220 deacons, deacons-in-training, elders, and pastors, Bob set the tone for the Summit by reminding the men that while accomplishing tasks is important, it is not the ultimate goal. The greater calling is to shepherd Christ's church into the compassion of Christ.Over the coming months, we will release the audio from all fourteen plenary and workshop sessions from the Summit, making these encouraging and practical resources available to the broader church.The video versions of all the Summit sessions can be found on OPCCDM.org.Resources from this episode:Handouts, the PowerPoint presentation from Bob's NDS Session and other resources from the OPC National Diaconal Summit V 2026 can be found here.You can find all of our episodes at thereformeddeacon.org. Make sure to follow us on your favorite podcast player, so you don't miss an episode. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for giveaways and more information. Find other resources on OPCCDM.org.  Make sure to send us some feedback on your podcast player or ask a diaconal question by going to OPCCDM.org.

Jesus said in John 10:27, “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.” Here’s what Jesus didn’t say – “Only a select few, super spiritual will hear my voice.” No, he said, “My sheep listen to my voice.” Jesus calls himself our Good Shepherd. What does that mean? In ancient Israel, a shepherd wasn’t just the owner of sheep – a shepherd was the one who lived with the sheep. His entire life was dedicated to his sheep. He slept near them at night. He protected them from danger. He led them to green pastures to eat and water to drink. The shepherd of this day knew each one of sheep individually. He knew which one was stubborn. He knew which one was prone to wander. He knew which one would lollygag and get lost. He also knew the dillydallyer that would inevitably get stuck in a ditch somewhere. A shepherd wasn’t like a cattle rancher driving a herd from behind. A shepherd led from the front and the sheep followed him. My friends, THAT’S OUR JESUS. He could have called himself anything. He could have called himself the General of the Army of followers. He could have called himself King. He could have given himself a crown of immeasurable value. But instead, he chose to be a shepherd to his sheep. To lovingly stay close. Shepherds in Jesus’ day would often bring their sheep into a communal sheep pen at night. Several flocks would be together in one place with one gatekeeper watching over them. The next morning multiple shepherds would come to collect their sheep. There weren’t separate sections. They weren’t color coded. The shepherd simply called his sheep. And his sheep got up and followed him. The others didn’t move. Can you imagine the noise? Hundreds of sheep. Multiple shepherds calling out. Yet somehow each sheep knew which voice belonged to the one they trusted. They knew because they had heard it thousands of times before. They learned their shepherd’s tone, their shepherd’s call, their shepherd’s character. Their shepherd wasn’t a stranger to them – the other voices were. A shepherd would continaully speak to his flock while leading them. He wanted his sheep to know his voice so if they wandered, they would return. A study was once done testing a flock of sheep to see how they recognized their own shepherd above anyone else trying to lead them. Thinking perhaps it was the scent of their clothes or their appearance, they dressed another man in the shepherd’s clothing and had him call to the flock of sheep. They would not listen. But their own shepherd, in completely different clothing could call out, and all the sheep would come running to his side. There was one thing they recognized – one thing they followed – HIS VOICE. Jesus doesn’t say his sheep will always make the right decisions. Sheep are generally rather ignorant and they continually get themselves into perdicaments where only their shepherd can rescue them. But what matters is his sheep know his voice. They know when he calls. They know when he directs. But I know the question we all have – DO I REALLY HEAR GOD’S VOICE? Am I good enough to know when it’s him guiding me? The sheep has no qualification here. The sheep just naturally know. The work is of the shepherd. The sheep simply listen. And isn’t that our problem – sometimes we’re simply not listening. We live in a world that is so busy and loud that we can’t hear our shepherd. We’re so quick to turn to anyone and anything that might give us immediate answers. We’ll turn on a podcast, we’ll call a friend, we’ll look for a sign, we’ll seek anything for a little guidance, but we won’t get still. We won’t get quiet. We won’t just sit with our shepherd and be close. So we miss it. Can we hear him – YES. We are sheep and the one thing we have the ability to do is hear our Shepherd. We don’t have the ability to figure things out on our own. We don’t have the ability to navigate our own way. We don’t have the ability to fix or change things. But we have the ability to listen and hear the voice that guides us. But we often don’t because we’re won’t … We won’t be still. We won’t be quiet. We won’t wait for his voice. Here’s what we often do – “God please speak to me. Tell me what to do.” While God is saying, “Would you please just spend time with me?” When an audiable voice becomes more important than a close relationship, we’ve missed the point. The sheep weren’t just wanting the voice of their shepherd to make them feel more confident. The sheep wanted the closeness of their shepherd because it was their way of life! What if instead of asking God to speak to us, we begin by saying “God, I just want to draw near to you.” The goal isn’t to get better at hearing voices. The goal is to spend so much time with Jesus that you become familiar with him. When you’re familiar with him, you’ll know his ways. You’ll know his rhythm. And when he speaks, you will KNOW it’s him. Relationship produces recognition. Ask anyone who truly receives the promptings of the Lord and his clear directions and I guarantee you they have a RELATIONSHIP build from a foundation of TIME spent with God. When you spend time with the Shepherd, you become familiar with his voice and you won’t be fooled by other voices – including your own. Relationship changes our ability to recognize Him. Our Good Shepherd says in John 10:5, “My sheep will never follow a stranger; in fact, they will run away from him because they do not recognize a stranger’s voice.” And that’s our problem. We’ve spent too much time with strange voices. We’ve wandered off into flocks we don’t belong in with shepherds who are not our own. So we’ve gotten confused. The voice of the world is no longer a stranger to us – it’s so familiar that we don’t run from it. Social media is loud. Our own voice of fear and shame and comparison has been listened to so often that it’s just normal for us to do the stupid stuff our own mind comes up with. We’ve crowded out the voice of our shepherd and that’s why we’re confused. So what do you do? TURN OFF THE NOISE. GET BACK TO YOUR SHEPHERD. Where do you find your shepherd? Verse 4 tells us, “When he has brought out all his own, he goes on ahead of them, and his sheep follow him because they know his voice.” HE’S AHEAD OF YOU. Look forward. Don’t look back. Don’t wander in circles. He is in front of you, making a way, clearing the path for you. Wherever you’re walking today, Jesus has already been there. This isn’t about asking Jesus to hurry up and catch up with you – this is about looking up and seeing where he is in front of you. What if today we changed our prayers a bit. What if today we prayed, “Jesus, where are you already going? I simply want to follow you.” It’s never about the sheep charting their own way. Sheep aren’t bucketlist destination diving out there. They’re following where the shepherd leads and finding the most perfect green pastures along the way to enjoy. The shepherd was already going great places, the sheep simply had to follow. I assure you, Jesus, your Good Shepherd, is going to better places than you have ever imagined. His plans are higher, better and bigger than anything your human/slash/sheep mind could ever dream up. If you will just follow him, you’ll get to experience the most beautiful things this life has to offer. Jesus, where are you already going? I simply want to follow you. Are you already going over here to this new job opportunity – I want to follow you. If you have something else in mind, then Jesus I don’t want to wander off into fields of my own. I want to stay close to you. I’ve decided I’m just following Jesus. His voice is heard when I stay close. His voice is heard when I am still and quiet. When I stay close, I don’t have to wake up every morning worrying if the voice I’m hearing is my shepherd. If I’m close, then I know. But if I’ve been scrolling all night, watching countless videos, reading the posts of strangers, then I am confused. I’ve drawn close to strangers and their voices may be calling me. Girl, get yourself back to Jesus. Stay close to him. That is truly your answer. Shut out everything else. The sheep don’t follow because they understand everything. They follow because they trust the One who is speaking. We tend to put all the pressure on ourselves. What if I miss him? What if I make the wrong decision? What if I’m just making this up? All while Jesus is saying, “I’m a shepherd. This is what I do!” He knows how to lead sheep. He isn’t intimidated by stubborn sheep. He isn’t surprised by wandering sheep. He isn’t confused by lost sheep. That’s His specialty. The pressure isn’t on the sheep to become brilliant navigators. The pressure is off because we have a brilliant Shepherd. The shepherd is speaking to you. He’s calling you to just go where he goes. Decide now you simply want to follow your Shepherd. Friend, perhaps you’ve made hearing God’s voice far more complicated than Jesus ever intended. He didn’t say His sheep would have extraordinary wisdom. He didn’t say His sheep would never wander. He didn’t say His sheep would always make the right decisions. He simply said His sheep know His voice. If you’ve wandered, come back. If you’ve grown confused, come back. If you’ve filled your mind with stranger’s voices, come back. He’s not disappointed that you’re returning. He’s a Shepherd. This is what He does. He goes before you. He calls your name. He lovingly leads. And all He’s asking of you today is what sheep have always done—simply follow. Jesus, where are You already going? I simply want to follow You. Follow Pamela on Instagram – https://instagram.com/headmamapamela Or Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/pamela.crim Find out more about BIG Life – http://biglifehq.com

Series: N/AService: SermonType: SermonSpeaker: David Brickey

Southern Shepherds, Savage Wolves: Otis Pickett on Presbyterian Missionaries, Race, and the Antebellum SouthWhy is Sunday morning still one of the most segregated hours in American life? That question — sparked by a line from Martin Luther King Jr. that Dr. Otis Pickett encountered in seminary — set him on a twenty-year search through the archives. In this episode, Chad sits down with Dr. Otis Westbrook Pickett Sr., University Historian at Clemson University, to discuss his first book, Southern Shepherds, Savage Wolves: Presbyterian Domestic Missionaries and Race in South Carolina, 1802–1874.Otis and Chad examine the nineteenth-century Presbyterian missionaries — most prominently John Lafayette Girardeau and T. C. Stuart — who worked to bring enslaved and later freed men and women into the life of the church, and who faltered when that calling collided with the racial hierarchy of a slaveholding society. The conversation traces how theology and ecclesiology shaped interracial encounter within the Presbyterian church and in Southern society more broadly, the uneasy coexistence of enslavement and "ecclesiastical rights," and the role religion played in shaping both slavery and Native American removal — along with how these ideas fared through the Civil War and helped lay the groundwork for the segregation that followed.Dr. Otis Westbrook Pickett Sr. is University Historian and clinical assistant professor in the College of Education at Clemson University. He holds an MA from Covenant Theological Seminary, an MA in history from the College of Charleston, and a PhD in history from the University of Mississippi. He is also co-founder and co-director of the Prison to College Pipeline Program, the first program in Mississippi to offer tuition-free, credit-bearing college courses to incarcerated students. AmazonLinks:

Shownotes for "Our Not-So-Interesting Path to Acting"Tonight's episode comes from a listener request, and it's a good one: our lives as actors, where we studied, our favourite classes, and how we actually memorize lines. If you're looking for a sleep podcast to help you fall asleep, this one drifts through drama school nostalgia at the exact unhurried pace insomnia needs.We start with the listener's original question about our training and processes, but — true to form — we meander from acting school memories into some genuinely delightful (and not very dramatic) origin stories, including Amanda's turn as a bunny and Marco's stint as a shepherd. It's the kind of low-stakes, half-remembered career reminiscing that's perfect for winding down.Perfect for anyone who's ever wondered what actors actually do in class, or who just wants two tired people quietly rambling about their pasts until you drift off.What we talk about:Where we each studied acting and what drew us to itOur favourite classes and the ones we dreadedHow we actually memorize lines (spoiler: it's not glamorous)Amanda's bunny eraMarco's shepherd eraWhy our "path to the career" stories are refreshingly unremarkableA listener suggestion that turned into a full trip down memory laneThis episode is perfect for:People who can't sleep and want something gentle to fall asleep toAnyone curious about the reality of actor trainingFans of low-stakes, meandering conversation as a sleep aidFormer drama kids reliving their own awkward early rolesListeners who submitted this suggestion and are finally getting their answerThe Insomnia Project is a podcast for anyone who has ever stared at the ceiling at 2am. Amanda and Marco talk about everything and nothing in particular, at a pace slow enough to help you relax, unwind, and finally fall asleep. New episodes drop regularly — perfect for insomnia, anxious nights, or just needing something calming in the background.If this episode helped you drift off, consider leaving us a rating or review — it helps other sleepless folks find us too.

See which questions to ask when sharing the Gospel here. --------Thank you for listening! Your support of Joni and Friends helps make this show possible. Joni and Friends envisions a world where every person with a disability finds hope, dignity, and their place in the body of Christ. Become part of the global movement today at www.joniandfriends.org. Find more encouragement on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube.

The Biblical Pastor: God's Shepherd vs. the Modern Hireling: Foundational Issues 6 | KIB 540 Kingdom Intelligence Briefing Description Welcome to Kingdom Intelligence Briefing Episode 540 with Dr. Michael Lake and Mary Lou Lake. What does Scripture actually teach about the office of the pastor? In today's church culture, many believers have inherited traditions that differ greatly from the biblical model of shepherding. In this message, Dr. Michael Lake continues the Fivefold Ministry series by examining the character, responsibilities, and calling of the biblical pastor through the lens of both the Old and New Testaments. Drawing from the teachings of Jesus, the Apostle Paul, Peter, and the biblical imagery of the Good Shepherd, this episode explains why pastors are called to protect, feed, disciple, and care for God's people—not build personal platforms or entertainment-driven ministries. Mary Lou also shares a timely exhortation concerning America's spiritual condition, the necessity of the fear of the Lord, and why she believes God is preparing His people for a great deliverance from modern Babylonian bondage. If you desire a deeper understanding of biblical leadership, spiritual maturity, and Christ-centered discipleship, this teaching will challenge and encourage you. In this episode, you'll discover: The biblical definition of a pastor The difference between a shepherd and a hireling Why pastors must protect the flock from deception The biblical qualifications for pastoral ministry Why pastors must become students of God's Word The importance of discipleship over entertainment How the Fivefold Ministry works together The responsibility of pastors to pray, teach, restore, and equip believers Why biblical shepherds are desperately needed in the last days Encouragement for faithful pastors serving quietly and sacrificially