Podcast appearances and mentions of simon peter

Read OnlineA Model of Holy Love and DesireOn the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene came to the tomb early in the morning, while it was still dark, and saw the stone removed from the tomb. So she ran and went to Simon Peter and to the other disciple whom Jesus loved, and told them, “They have taken the Lord from the tomb, and we don't know where they put him.” John 20:1–2When Jesus first encountered Mary Magdalene, she was afflicted by seven demons. Many Church Fathers interpret this number as symbolizing a complete domination by evil spirits. Though later traditions identified Mary Magdalene with the repentant prostitute or the woman caught in adultery, the Gospels themselves do not explicitly make that identification. What is certain is that she had been grievously afflicted by demons (cf. Luke 8:2).To fall into such spiritual bondage suggests a life marked by serious sin. However, diabolical possession is not always the direct result of mortal sin; at times, God may permit such affliction for reasons known only to His providence, allowing a greater good to emerge from it. Whatever the cause of Mary Magdalene's prior affliction, it is clear that God, in His infinite mercy, transformed her into a radiant model of holy love and desire. From her profound healing flowed a singular devotion to Christ.Today's Gospel beautifully portrays the emotion, desire, sorrow, and love flowing from Mary's heart. She was one of the few faithful disciples who remained with Jesus during His Passion and death. She stood by the Cross alongside Jesus' mother, the Apostle John, and a few other holy women. Her strength and devotion likely sprang from her heartfelt gratitude toward Jesus for delivering her from diabolical affliction. The freedom she experienced through Him enkindled in her an unwavering faith, recognizing Him as the Messiah and the Son of God.On Easter Sunday morning, before the sun had even risen, Mary made her way to the tomb to anoint Jesus' body. Since Jesus had died shortly before the Sabbath began—sunset on Friday to sunset on Saturday—Mary and the other women had been unable to properly anoint His sacred Body. We can imagine that from the moment the Sabbath began, her heart was fixed on one desire: to return to the tomb and perform this final act of love. Her devotion could not wait. Love compelled her to act as soon as it was permitted, and in doing so, she became the first to behold the empty tomb—and soon after, the Risen Lord.We see Mary's holy love and desire also in her determination to remain at the empty tomb. After seeing the stone rolled away, she ran to tell the Apostles, and then returned with Peter and John. But after they departed, Mary remained. She stayed, weeping, loving, and longing. She was so consumed with desire for her Lord that, when she saw two angels seated in the tomb, she was neither startled nor impressed—not even when they spoke to her: “Woman, why are you weeping?” Her only thought was for Jesus: “They have taken my Lord, and I don't know where they laid him.”Even when Jesus appeared, His identity veiled from her eyes, she still sought only His body. Yet it was His voice—tender, familiar, unmistakable—that pierced the veil and opened her eyes of faith: “Mary!” She responded with that beautiful, personal cry of recognition, “Rabbouni!”Reflect today on the transformed soul of Saint Mary Magdalene. She went from diabolical affliction to a heart overflowing with holy love and desire for our Lord. She is a model for each of us. We must allow ourselves to be filled with the same gratitude for His grace and reconciliation, cultivate the same unwavering devotion, and burn with the same longing to find Him. When our hearts mirror Mary's, we too will hear the Lord call us by name. Be grateful. Desire Him. Listen for Him. And like Mary, you will find that He is already standing before you.Rabbouni! With Saint Mary Magdalene, I give thanks to You with all my heart for the freedom You have mercifully bestowed upon me. You have forgiven my sins, restored me to grace, and kept me safe from the snares of the enemy. With Mary, I pray that my passions and every movement of my soul may be caught up in love of You, driving me to seek You with all my being. Speak my name, O Lord, call me lovingly, and open my eyes to see You always before me. Jesus, I trust in You.  Image: St Mary Magdalene, by Lawrence OP, CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.Source: Free RSS feed from catholic-daily-reflections.com — Copyright © 2026 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. This content is provided solely for personal, non-commercial use. Redistribution, republication, or commercial use — including use within apps with advertising — is strictly prohibited without written permission.

You couldn't always depend on Peter to get it right, but you could depend on him to show up and take action.You can find a transcript of this video and over 1000 more devotions like this one on our website at PeaceDevotions.com.If you find value from these devotions we'd encourage you to support our ministry. You can support us by praying for our pastors, sharing and commenting on our videos, or by donating at https://peacedevotions.com/donateConnect with us on social media, our website, or get these emailed to your inbox.Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PeaceDevotions/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/peace_devotions/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2pFo5lJV46gKmztGwnT3vAWebsite: https://peacedevotions.com/Email List: https://peacedevotions.com/emailYou can also add Peace Devotions to your Flash Briefing on Amazon Echo Devices.https://peacedevotions.com/echo/

Dr. Brian Hill (Senior Pastor), "What We Believe About the Church".       13.  When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, “Who do people say the Son of Man is?”       14.  They replied, “Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, Jeremiah or one of the prophets.”       15.  “But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?”       16.  Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.”       17.  Jesus replied, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by flesh and blood, but by my Father in heaven.  18.  And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.       (Matthew 16:13-18 NIV)       23.  Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.  24.  And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds,  25.  not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.       (Hebrews 10:23-25 NIV)       42.  They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.       43.  Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles.  44.  All the believers were together and had everything in common.  45.  They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need.         46.  Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts,  47.  praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.       (Acts 2:41-47 NIV)To view a video version of the Sermon please click on the following link:   https://youtu.be/6WyaRmbHAUk(The audio version of the Sermon will most likely have to be stopped from playing or else it will be heard as well as the audio track of the video version.)

Luke 5:4-11 New International Version 4 When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch.” 5 Simon answered, “Master, we’ve worked hard all night and haven’t caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets.” 6 When they had done so, they caught such a large number of fish that their nets began to break. 7 So they signaled their partners in the other boat to come and help them, and they came and filled both boats so full that they began to sink. 8 When Simon Peter saw this, he fell at Jesus’ knees and said, “Go away from me, Lord; I am a sinful man!” 9 For he and all his companions were astonished at the catch of fish they had taken, 10 and so were James and John, the sons of Zebedee, Simon’s partners. Then Jesus said to Simon, “Don’t be afraid; from now on you will fish for people.” 11 So they pulled their boats up on shore, left everything and followed him.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Click here to WATCH LIVE STREAM Worship Service on our Youtube Channel. That You May Believe, Part 26  John 13:1-20   John 13:1-20 Now before the Feast of the Passover, when Jesus knew that his hour had come to depart out of this world to the Father, having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end. 2 During supper, when the devil had already put it into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son, to betray him, 3 Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he had come from God and was going back to God, 4 rose from supper. He laid aside his outer garments, and taking a towel, tied it around his waist. 5 Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet and to wipe them with the towel that was wrapped around him. 6 He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, “Lord, do you wash my feet?” 7 Jesus answered him, “What I am doing you do not understand now, but afterward you will understand.” 8 Peter said to him, “You shall never wash my feet.” Jesus answered him, “If I do not wash you, you have no share with me.” 9 Simon Peter said to him, “Lord, not my feet only but also my hands and my head!” 10 Jesus said to him, “The one who has bathed does not need to wash, except for his feet, but is completely clean. And you are clean, but not every one of you.” 11 For he knew who was to betray him; that was why he said, “Not all of you are clean.” 12 When he had washed their feet and put on his outer garments and resumed his place, he said to them, “Do you understand what I have done to you? 13 You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for so I am. 14 If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. 15 For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you. 16 Truly, truly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. 17 If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them. 18 I am not speaking of all of you; I know whom I have chosen. But the Scripture will be fulfilled, ‘He who ate my bread has lifted his heel against me.' 19 I am telling you this now, before it takes place, that when it does take place you may believe that I am he. 20 Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever receives the one I send receives me, and whoever receives me receives the one who sent me.”    John 13:1 Now before the Feast of the Passover, when Jesus knew that his hour had come to depart out of this world to the Father, having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end.     John 13:2 During supper, when the devil had already put it into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son, to betray him,     John 13:3 Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he had come from God and was going back to God,     John 13:4-5 rose from supper. He laid aside his outer garments, and taking a towel, tied it around his waist. 5 Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet and to wipe them with the towel that was wrapped around him.    Luke 22:24 A dispute also arose among them, as to which of them was to be regarded as the greatest.     John 13:6 He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, “Lord, do you wash my feet?”     John 13:7-8 Jesus answered him, “What I am doing you do not understand now, but afterward you will understand.” 8 Peter said to him, “You shall never wash my feet.” Jesus answered him, “If I do not wash you, you have no share with me.”     John 13:9 Simon Peter said to him, “Lord, not my feet only but also my hands and my head!”     John 13:10-11 Jesus said to him, “The one who has bathed does not need to wash, except for his feet, but is completely clean. And you are clean, but not every one of you.” 11 For he knew who was to betray him; that was why he said, “Not all of you are clean.”     John 19:34 But one of the soldiers pierced his side with a spear, and at once there came out blood and water.    John 13:12-14 When he had washed their feet and put on his outer garments and resumed his place, he said to them, “Do you understand what I have done to you? 13 You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for so I am. 14 If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet.     John 13:15-17 For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you. 16 Truly, truly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. 17 If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them.     John 13:18-20 I am not speaking of all of you; I know whom I have chosen. But the Scripture will be fulfilled, ‘He who ate my bread has lifted his heel against me.' 19 I am telling you this now, before it takes place, that when it does take place you may believe that I am he. 20 Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever receives the one I send receives me, and whoever receives me receives the one who sent me.”    Servants rest in His love.    1 Corinthians 13:4-8a Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant 5 or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; 6 it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. 7 Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. 8 Love never ends…    Philippians 2:6-11 who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, 7 but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. 8 And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. 9 Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, 10 so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.    Servants receive His cleansing.    Titus 3:3-7 For we ourselves were once foolish, disobedient, led astray, slaves to various passions and pleasures, passing our days in malice and envy, hated by others and hating one another. 4 But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, 5 he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit, 6 whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, 7 so that being justified by his grace we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life.    1 John 1:8-9 If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.    Servants respond with humble service.    James 1:22-25 But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. 23 For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks intently at his natural face in a mirror. 24 For he looks at himself and goes away and at once forgets what he was like. 25 But the one who looks into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and perseveres, being no hearer who forgets but a doer who acts, he will be blessed in his doing.    Philippians 2:3-5 Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. 4 Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. 5 Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus,    Romans 12:10 Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor.  Respond | Connect | Next Steps The post John: That You May Believe appeared first on Charleston Baptist Church.

Morning Worship Sermon with Rev. Bud Hance Scripture reference John 21:15-17 15 So when they had eaten breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of Jonah, do you love Me more than these?” He said to Him, “Yes, Lord; You know that I love You.” He said to him, “Feed My lambs.” 16 He said to him again a second time, “Simon, son of Jonah, do you love Me?” He said to Him, “Yes, Lord; You know that I love You.” He said to him, “Tend My sheep.” 17 He said to him the third time, “Simon, son of Jonah, do you love Me?” Peter was grieved because He said to him the third time, “Do you love Me?” And he said to Him, “Lord, You know all things; You know that I love You.” Jesus said to him, “Feed My sheep.”

Luke 5:1-10 New International Version Jesus Calls His First Disciples 5 One day as Jesus was standing by the Lake of Gennesaret,[a] the people were crowding around him and listening to the word of God. 2 He saw at the water’s edge two boats, left there by the fishermen, who were washing their nets. 3 He got into one of the boats, the one belonging to Simon, and asked him to put out a little from shore. Then he sat down and taught the people from the boat. 4 When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch.” 5 Simon answered, “Master, we’ve worked hard all night and haven’t caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets.” 6 When they had done so, they caught such a large number of fish that their nets began to break. 7 So they signaled their partners in the other boat to come and help them, and they came and filled both boats so full that they began to sink. 8 When Simon Peter saw this, he fell at Jesus’ knees and said, “Go away from me, Lord; I am a sinful man!” 9 For he and all his companions were astonished at the catch of fish they had taken, 10 and so were James and John, the sons of Zebedee, Simon’s partners. Then Jesus said to Simon, “Don’t be afraid; from now on you will fish for people.”See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

~~~~~~~ No 23 in the series - The Epistles of Peter. ~~~~~~~ **Considering 2 Peter 1:1-4** Simon Peter, a servant and an apostle of Jesus Christ, ...... Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. *1/ Like precious faith and how it is obtained - "Through the righteousness of God and our Saviour Jesus Christ:" 2/ What his divine power has given us - "All things that pertain unto life and godliness" 3/ The means used - "Through the knowledge of him that hath called us." 4/ The all things - Including "exceeding great and precious promises:" 5/ The influence and effect of these promises.* **Sermon Summary:** The sermon explores the great and precious promises found in 2 Peter 1, emphasizing that faith is a divine gift obtained through the righteousness of Jesus Christ. It highlights God's divine power as the source for all things pertaining to spiritual life and godliness, accessible through a deepening knowledge of Him who called believers. The preacher explains that these promises provide grace, peace, and eternal inheritance, enabling Christians to partake in the divine nature and escape worldly corruption. By focusing on Christ rather than visions or human effort, believers are equipped to stand against false doctrine and live faithfully. The message encourages reliance on Scripture and the person of Jesus for assurance, strength, and daily conduct.

Kenzie details the horrific crimes committed by Simon Peter Nelson in Rockford. Chicago’s best morning radio show now has a podcast! Don’t forget to rate, review, and subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts and remember that the conversation always lives on the Q101 Facebook page. Brian & Kenzie are live every morning from 6a-10a on Q101. Subscribe to our channel HERE: https://www.youtube.com/@Q101 Like Q101 on Facebook HERE: https://www.facebook.com/q101chicago Follow Q101 on Twitter HERE: https://twitter.com/Q101Chicago Follow Q101 on Instagram HERE: https://www.instagram.com/q101chicago/?hl=en Follow Q101 on TikTok HERE: https://www.tiktok.com/@q101chicago?lang=enSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We need the growing faith of Simon Peter, as seen in the Gospel of St. Luke 5. As Jesus comes to Capernaum, Simon Peter has a growing experience with Christ our God. Jesus heals Peter's mother-in-law from a dangerously high fever; Peter sits in his boat at the feet of Jesus as the Word of God reveals the Kingdom of God to a multitude; and then Peter experiences the miraculous catch of fish. His growing mustard seed of faith was enough to follow the command of Christ for Peter to take his boat into deeper waters and let down his net. Peter, Andrew, James, and John had fished all night and caught nothing the night before. And while Peter did not understand how fishing again that day could be productive, his response to Christ was, "At Your word, I will." That is when the miracle happened. Jesus invited Peter to cooperate with a great work of Christ; one that Christ had already prepared to be successful by having the fish He had created ready to be caught. Jesus is always going before us, preparing the way. We have the joy of being invited into the salvation works of Christ. Will we say, "At your word, I will"?

Kenzie details the horrific crimes committed by Simon Peter Nelson in Rockford. Chicago’s best morning radio show now has a podcast! Don’t forget to rate, review, and subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts and remember that the conversation always lives on the Q101 Facebook page. Brian & Kenzie are live every morning from 6a-10a on Q101. Subscribe to our channel HERE: https://www.youtube.com/@Q101 Like Q101 on Facebook HERE: https://www.facebook.com/q101chicago Follow Q101 on Twitter HERE: https://twitter.com/Q101Chicago Follow Q101 on Instagram HERE: https://www.instagram.com/q101chicago/?hl=en Follow Q101 on TikTok HERE: https://www.tiktok.com/@q101chicago?lang=enSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

John 6:5-115 When Jesus looked up and saw a great crowd coming toward him, he said to Philip, “Where shall we buy bread for these people to eat?” 6 He asked this only to test him, for he already had in mind what he was going to do.7 Philip answered him, “It would take more than half a year's wages[a] to buy enough bread for each one to have a bite!”8 Another of his disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter's brother, spoke up, 9 “Here is a boy with five small barley loaves and two small fish, but how far will they go among so many?”10 Jesus said, “Have the people sit down.” There was plenty of grass in that place, and they sat down (about five thousand men were there). 11 Jesus then took the loaves, gave thanks, and distributed to those who were seated as much as they wanted. He did the same with the fish.

John 21:3-12 Simon Peter said, “I'm going fishing.” “We'll come, too,” they all said. So they went out in the boat, but they caught nothing all night. At dawn Jesus was standing on the beach, but the disciples couldn't see who he was. He called out, “Fellows, have you caught any fish?” “No,” they replied. Then he said, “Throw out your net on the right-hand side of the boat, and you'll get some!” So they did, and they couldn't haul in the net because there were so many fish in it. Then the disciple Jesus loved said to Peter, “It's the Lord!” When Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put on his tunic (for he had stripped for work), jumped into the water, and headed to shore. The others stayed with the boat and pulled the loaded net to the shore, for they were only about a hundred yards from shore. When they got there, they found breakfast waiting for them—fish cooking over a charcoal fire, and some bread.“Bring some of the fish you've just caught,” Jesus said. So Simon Peter went aboard and dragged the net to the shore. There were 153 large fish, and yet the net hadn't torn. “Now come and have some breakfast!” Jesus said. None of the disciples dared to ask him, “Who are you?” They knew it was the Lord. Then Jesus served them the bread and the fish. This was the third time Jesus had appeared to his disciples since he had been raised from the dead.Go back to the START, in order to MOVE FORWARD.When you don't know what to do, go back to the last time you were WITH JESUS.Revelation 2:5 Look how far you have fallen! Turn back to me and do the works you did at first.When you don't know what to do, BE OBEDIENT.Matthew 28:10 Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid. Go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me.”1 John 5:3 For this is what love for God is: to keep his commands. And his commands are not a burden.My level of OBEDIENCE reveals my level of TRUST in Him.When you RETURN and OBEY,  DAYBREAK will always come.Lamentations 3:22-23 The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.Psalm 30:5 Weeping may last through the night, but joy comes with the morning.Jesus often meets us not in the middle of the FIGHT, but at the DAWN of a new day.When Jesus is involved, SOME becomes ABUNDANT.Jesus cares for the WHOLE PERSON.He provides for their NEEDS = 153 large fishHe provides for their SOULS = breakfast at the beachHe provides for their SPIRITS = redemption and callingWhen we read the Bible searching for ANSWERS, we don't always find them, but we always find a FULL PICTURE of who GOD is.John 21: 15-17 When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?” “Yes, Lord,” he said, “you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.” Again Jesus said, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” He answered, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Take care of my sheep.” The third time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, “Do you love me?” He said, “Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my sheep.”God REDEEMS your past, REWRITES your story, and REAFFIRMS your purpose.

What if the very place you've been avoiding holds the key to everything you've been searching for? In Matthew 16, Jesus asked His disciples a question that still echoes today: "Who do you say that I am?" — and Peter's bold answer became the foundation of the Church itself. This powerful message reveals that the Church isn't just a building; it's where broken lives get repaired, weak areas get strengthened, and destinies get unlocked. Watch as a DoorDash driver received a surprise $922 blessing, reminding us that the Church actively transforms communities. Don't miss this — your story could be next.Matthew 16:13  When Jesus came into the region of Caesarea Philippi, He asked His disciples, saying, “Who do men say that I, the Son of Man, am?”14 So they said, “Some say John the Baptist, some Elijah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.”15 He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?”16 Simon Peter answered and said, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”17 Jesus answered and said to him, “Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah, for flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but My Father who is in heaven. 18 And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hell shall not prevail against it. 19 And I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.”

Jay Atkins - Sunday, July 12, 2026

God is never done with us

Yesterday, we witnessed Simon Peter's legendary conversion on the Sea of Galilee. Today, Brother Mike takes us on a sobering journey into Peter's rapid spiritual decline, his public denial of Christ, and his ultimate loss of salvation. What causes a passionate, vocal follower of Christ to stumble so severely? Drawing from the Greek texts, Brother Mike looks at Peter's deep-seated insecurities—often masked by his tendency to run his mouth "like a busted chainsaw." Explore the dangerous progression from a prideful spirit at the Last Supper to the terrifying moment when Peter calls down an anathema (a curse of execution) upon himself by swearing he has never even seen Jesus (eido). This episode reveals that witnessing a miracle—or even seeing the resurrected Christ face-to-face—isn't enough to heal a broken relationship with God. True restoration requires facing your guilt, turning away from your old life, and allowing yourself to be genuinely reconverted (epistrefo). Scripture & Highlights Mentioned in This Episode The Warning of Spattering Sheep: Jesus warns the disciples that they will all be offended and scattered, fulfilling ancient prophecy (Matthew 26:31; Zechariah 13:7). Sifted Like Wheat: Jesus reveals Satan’s design to test Simon and uses the Greek word epistrefo, pointing to his eventual need to be completely reconverted (Luke 22:31-34). The Infiltrated Palace: John uses his connections to get Peter past the young slave gatekeeper (paidiske) into the high priest's courtyard (John 18:15-17). The Absolute Denial: Confronted by the crowd and a relative of Malchus (syngenes), Peter curses, swears, and denies knowing Christ before meeting Jesus' gaze and weeping bitterly (pikros) (Mark 14:66-72; John 18:25-27). Reconversion at Tiberias: After returning to his old life of fishing out of sheer guilt, Peter is met by Jesus at a second fire of coals and is lovingly restored after affirming his love three times (John 21:1-17). Connect with the Ministry Visit the Arizona Deliverance Center Located in downtown Phoenix on 15th Avenue, just south of Osborn Road (look for the red brick building). Come break the chains of guilt and experience true deliverance. Weekly Live Services: Thursday & Friday nights at 7:00 PM The Saints Gather: Saturday Worship & Deliverance Service at 4:30 PM — A powerful, one-of-a-kind service featuring singing in tongues. Ladies Night: Tuesdays at 6:30 PM Monthly Healing Service: Last Friday of every month at 7:00 PM (Arrive early, seats fill up quickly!) Need Prayer for Guilt or Deliverance? Call Brother Mike directly at 602-636-5800 for support or to get access codes for the weekly Zoom healing services. Catch the radio broadcast celebrating Brother Mike's silver anniversary on 1010 AM KXXT, and listen to the Sunday morning podcast every week at 9:00 AM at HardcoreChristianity.com. Support the show: https://hardcorechristianity.com/donations/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What does a true, unshakeable transformation look like? In this episode, Brother Mike breaks down the dramatic calling and conversion of Simon Peter on the Sea of Galilee. Simon wasn’t just a struggling fisherman; he was part of a highly successful, prosperous fishing conglomerate alongside Andrew, James, and John. Yet, one supernatural encounter changed everything. Through a deep look at the Greek context, Brother Mike explains how Simon moved from seeing Jesus as a mere commander or boss (epistates) to recognizing Him as Lord after witnessing a staggering, boat-sinking miracle. Discover the four-step "perfect method of conversion" modeled by Christ: preach the word, demonstrate the word, open the heart to the Holy Spirit, and fall down broken in true repentance. Brother Mike pulls no punches as he challenges modern "easy come, easy go" evangelical methods, explaining why a repentance-based conversion is the only cure for a backslidden heart. Tune in to find out why miracles are meant to draw you closer to God, and how He always provides for what you leave behind. Scripture & Highlights Mentioned in This Episode The Miraculous Catch: Simon obeys the spoken word (rhema) of Jesus despite a night of empty nets, leading to a historic, boat-sinking haul (Luke 5:1-7). A Broken Repentance: Simon falls at Jesus' knees, hit with the conviction of the Holy Spirit, crying, "Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord" (Luke 5:8-9). Catchers of Men: Jesus eases Simon's fear and calls the partners to a higher ministry, prompting them to forsake all and follow Him (Luke 5:10-11). The Purpose of Signs: Understanding why miracles are given to draw unbelievers near, echoing Paul’s reminder on spiritual signs (1 Corinthians 14:22). Draw Nigh to God: Responding to the conviction of the Spirit to experience a legitimate spiritual rebirth (James 4:8). Connect with the Ministry Live Services & Supernatural Healing If you want to experience the moving of the Holy Spirit, visit the Arizona Deliverance Center in Phoenix (Located downtown on 15th Avenue, just south of Osborn Road—look for the red brick building). Weekly Live Services: Thursday & Friday nights at 7:00 PM Ladies Night: Tuesdays at 6:30 PM Weekly Healing Zoom Services: Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings. Call 602-636-5800 or email mike@hardcorechristianity.com for the password and access code! Monthly Healing Service: Last Friday of every month at 7:00 PM at the Deliverance Center. Support the show: https://hardcorechristianity.com/donations/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jesus did not choose the most qualified people to change the world. He chose twelve ordinary men, called them to Himself, and sent them out with His authority. This look at Mark 3 and the calling of the twelve disciples explores why Jesus withdrew from the crowds, what He was doing on the mountain, and what His pattern of calling reveals about how God still works today. Topics covered include why Jesus had a boat prepared for His own protection, what the crowds were really looking for, how Jesus spent the night in prayer before appointing His disciples, and what it means that He called them first to be with Him before sending them out. Each of the twelve disciples is introduced with context about who they were, including Simon Peter, James and John the Sons of Thunder, Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew the tax collector, Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus, Thaddeus, Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot. Key themes include the calling of the disciples, ordinary people used by God, the Great Commission, spiritual formation, being with Jesus before doing for Jesus, and what it means to be sent. Relevant passages include Mark 3, John 15:16, Acts 4:13, Acts 17:6, Luke 22:22, and 1 Corinthians 1:26-27. If you have ever wondered whether God can use someone like you, this is for you. The disciples had no impressive credentials. Their only qualification was that Jesus wanted them. And those same ordinary men turned the world upside down. Relevant keywords and topics: calling of the twelve disciples, Mark 3 Bible study, who were the twelve apostles, ordinary people used by God, Christian discipleship, spiritual formation, come and follow Jesus, Great Commission, being sent by God, how God calls people, New Testament discipleship, Christian calling and purpose, Jesus and His disciples, apostles of Jesus, faith and obedience, how to follow Jesus, Christian living, Bible teaching, church sermon, gospel mission.

Have you ever found yourself doing all the "right" things in your faith, yet still feeling completely disconnected, dry, or even doubting your own salvation?In this kickoff message of our new series, "Submerged," we are going into the deep water to unpack what it truly means to be saved, stay saved, and feel saved. We break down the stark difference between a checklist religion and a sincere, intimate relationship with Jesus.Through personal stories—from navigating the confusing animal sacrifices of Leviticus to a raw reality check at a recovery center—we expose how modern religious culture has turned repentance into an idolization of human works. We'll look closely at the thief on the cross, the ultimate baseline of pure grace, and examine why Simon Peter ran straight into the empty tomb while John stood reserved at the entrance.If you are tired of standing on the shore, counting points on a religious scoreboard, and wading in the shallows of anxiety and uncertainty, this episode is your invitation to drop the checklist, leave the shore behind, and get completely submerged in the ocean of God's grace.Key Scriptures Covered:Romans 10:9-10Luke 23:40-43Matthew 7:21-23Hebrews 6:1Isaiah 64:6Philippians 3:7-9Galatians 2:21Romans 14:1-3John 20:3-81 Corinthians 2:14-15 —To connect, learn more or donate, visit gravetopchurch.com  Follow us on Instagram, Facebook or TikTok by searching @gravetopchurch

The key to John 13 is verse 3 - Jesus washed feet "knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands." He served from total security. Not from obligation, desperation, or guilt. From abundance. That's the engine. Freedom from God's full acceptance produces service. Obligation produces resentment. Galatians 5:13-15 (ESV) For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. For the whole law is fulfilled in one word: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” But if you bite and devour one another, watch out that you are not consumed by one another.John 13:1-17 (ESV)Now before the Feast of the Passover, when Jesus knew that his hour had come to depart out of this world to the Father, having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end. During supper, when the devil had already put it into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon's son, to betray him, Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he had come from God and was going back to God, rose from supper. He laid aside his outer garments, and taking a towel, tied it around his waist. Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples' feet and to wipe them with the towel that was wrapped around him. He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, “Lord, do you wash my feet?” Jesus answered him, “What I am doing you do not understand now, but afterward you will understand.” Peter said to him, “You shall never wash my feet.” Jesus answered him, “If I do not wash you, you have no share with me.” Simon Peter said to him, “Lord, not my feet only but also my hands and my head!” Jesus said to him, “The one who has bathed does not need to wash, except for his feet, but is completely clean. And you are clean, but not every one of you.” For he knew who was to betray him; that was why he said, “Not all of you are clean.”When he had washed their feet and put on his outer garments and resumed his place, he said to them, “Do you understand what I have done to you? You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet. For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you. Truly, truly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them.

 13 And Jesus came into the quarters of Caesarea Philippi: and he asked his disciples, saying: Whom do men say that the Son of man is?Venit autem Jesus in partes Caesareae Philippi : et interrogabat discipulos suos, dicens : Quem dicunt homines esse Filium hominis? 14 But they said: Some John the Baptist, and other some Elias, and others Jeremias, or one of the prophets.At illi dixerunt : Alii Joannem Baptistam, alii autem Eliam, alii vero Jeremiam, aut unum ex prophetis. 15 Jesus saith to them: But whom do you say that I am?Dicit illis Jesus : Vos autem, quem me esse dicitis? 16 Simon Peter answered and said: Thou art Christ, the Son of the living God.Respondens Simon Petrus dixit : Tu es Christus, Filius Dei vivi. 17 And Jesus answering, said to him: Blessed art thou, Simon Bar-Jona: because flesh and blood hath not revealed it to thee, but my Father who is in heaven.Respondens autem Jesus, dixit ei : Beatus es Simon Bar Jona : quia caro et sanguis non revelavit tibi, sed Pater meus, qui in caelis est. 18 And I say to thee: That thou art Peter; and upon this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.Et ego dico tibi, quia tu es Petrus, et super hanc petram aedificabo Ecclesiam meam, et portae inferi non praevalebunt adversus eam. 19 And I will give to thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven. And whatsoever thou shalt bind upon earth, it shall be bound also in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose upon earth, it shall be loosed also in heaven.Et tibi dabo claves regni caelorum. Et quodcumque ligaveris super terram, erit ligatum et in caelis : et quodcumque solveris super terram, erit solutum et in caelis.[18] "Thou art Peter": As St. Peter, by divine revelation, here made a solemn profession of his faith of the divinity of Christ; so in recompense of this faith and profession, our Lord here declares to him the dignity to which he is pleased to raise him: viz., that he to whom he had already given the name of Peter, signifying a rock, St. John 1. 42, should be a rock indeed, of invincible strength, for the support of the building of the church; in which building he should be, next to Christ himself, the chief foundation stone, in quality of chief pastor, ruler, and governor; and should have accordingly all fulness of ecclesiastical power, signified by the keys of the kingdom of heaven.[18] "Upon this rock": The words of Christ to Peter, spoken in the vulgar language of the Jews which our Lord made use of, were the same as if he had said in English, Thou art a Rock, and upon this rock I will build my church. So that, by the plain course of the words, Peter is here declared to be the rock, upon which the church was to be built: Christ himself being both the principal foundation and founder of the same. Where also note, that Christ, by building his house, that is, his church, upon a rock, has thereby secured it against all storms and floods, like the wise builder, [Matt 7:24-25].[18] "The gates of hell": That is, the powers of darkness, and whatever Satan can do, either by himself, or his agents. For as the church is here likened to a house, or fortress, built on a rock; so the adverse powers are likened to a contrary house or fortress, the gates of which, that is, the whole strength, and all the efforts it can make, will never be able to prevail over the city or church of Christ. By this promise we are fully assured, that neither idolatry, heresy, nor any pernicious error whatsoever shall at any time prevail over the church of Christ.[19] "Loose upon earth": The loosing the bands of temporal punishments due to sins, is called an indulgence; the power of which is here granted.

Chapter 22 of Heroes in the Bible: Jesus with Dr. Tony Evans is inspired by the Gospels. Do You Love Me? - Jesus restores Peter. Alone and ashamed, Peter sits on his boat awaiting his fate… Until he hears a familiar voice. Today's opening prayer is inspired by John 21:15, So when they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me more than these? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my lambs. Listen to some of the greatest Bible stories ever told and make prayer a priority in your life by downloading the Pray.com app. Sign up for Heroes in the Bible devotionals at https://www.heroesinthebible.com/  Learn more about Dr. Tony Evans at https://tonyevans.org/  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In today’s episode, Ben O’Shea has the latest on Simon Peter Carman, alleged killer of 17yo Thai girl Tunchanok Donhomla, as her parents demand death penalty. Plus, AUKUS woes continue & RBA decision unpacked.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Today’s Topics: Father Robert Elias joins Terry 1) Gospel – Matthew 16:13-19 – When Jesus went into the region of Caesarea Philippi He asked His disciples, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” They replied, “Some say John the Baptist, others Elijah, still others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter said in reply, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Jesus said to him in reply, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah. For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but My heavenly Father. And so I say to you, you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build My Church, and the gates of the netherworld shall not prevail against it. I will give you the keys to the Kingdom of heaven. Whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven; and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.” Solemnity of  of Saints Peter and Paul, Apostles Saints Peter and Paul, pray for us! 2, 3, 4) In Part Two, Terry and Father Robert continue discussing Saint John of the Cross, his Spirituality and what he teaches us

Original Post Date: June 29, 2024 === Gospel Matthew 16:13-19 When Jesus went into the region of Caesarea Philippi he asked his disciples, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” They replied, “Some say John the Baptist, others Elijah, still others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter said in reply, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Jesus said to him in reply, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah. For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my heavenly Father. And so I say to you, you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my Church, and the gates of the netherworld shall not prevail against it. I will give you the keys to the Kingdom of heaven. Whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven; and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.” Reflection Jesus is making clear that he's given authority to his church. The church must be founded on truth so that the Kingdom of God can take place one day here on this earth.  Closing Prayer Father, help us to acknowledge the authority in the truths that we find in our religion. All religions. We pray that churches will proclaim consistently your wisdom, your truth. And we ask this in Jesus' name, Amen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

13 And Jesus came into the quarters of Caesarea Philippi: and he asked his disciples, saying: Whom do men say that the Son of man is?Venit autem Jesus in partes Caesareae Philippi : et interrogabat discipulos suos, dicens : Quem dicunt homines esse Filium hominis? 14 But they said: Some John the Baptist, and other some Elias, and others Jeremias, or one of the prophets.At illi dixerunt : Alii Joannem Baptistam, alii autem Eliam, alii vero Jeremiam, aut unum ex prophetis. 15 Jesus saith to them: But whom do you say that I am?Dicit illis Jesus : Vos autem, quem me esse dicitis? 16 Simon Peter answered and said: Thou art Christ, the Son of the living God.Respondens Simon Petrus dixit : Tu es Christus, Filius Dei vivi. 17 And Jesus answering, said to him: Blessed art thou, Simon Bar-Jona: because flesh and blood hath not revealed it to thee, but my Father who is in heaven.Respondens autem Jesus, dixit ei : Beatus es Simon Bar Jona : quia caro et sanguis non revelavit tibi, sed Pater meus, qui in caelis est. 18 And I say to thee: That thou art Peter; and upon this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.Et ego dico tibi, quia tu es Petrus, et super hanc petram aedificabo Ecclesiam meam, et portae inferi non praevalebunt adversus eam. 19 And I will give to thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven. And whatsoever thou shalt bind upon earth, it shall be bound also in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose upon earth, it shall be loosed also in heaven.Et tibi dabo claves regni caelorum. Et quodcumque ligaveris super terram, erit ligatum et in caelis : et quodcumque solveris super terram, erit solutum et in caelis.The Apostles Peter and Paul are the two princes of the Apostles, the foundations of the Church, on which she is firmly established as on a rock. This feast is almost entirely devoted to St Peter, the Bishop of Rome, the great Apostle of the Gentiles being more specially honored on June 30. The lessons and prayers of this Mass describe how his Lord and Master Jesus Christ prepared the fervent Apostle, St Peter, for the supreme office of the Papacy.After the descent of the Holy Ghost St Peter preached the Gospel in Judea and was cast into prison by Herod Agrippa. He was miraculously delivered by an Angel and established his see first at Antioch, and then finally at Rome, where the first pope exercised for twenty-five years the Supreme Authority vested in him by Christ Himself. Then he was arrested, and like St Paul suffered martyrdom A.D. 65. This Feast marks the day of the translation of their relics.

The compelling story of Saul (Paul) of Tarsus & Simon (Peter) of Capernaum offers an opportunity to historically examine their fascinating lives and determine how they worked through their imperfections in order to do extraordinary things. June 29 is the annual Feast of the Solemnity of the Apostles Peter and Paul. Traditional Catholic Daily Devotional podcast at https://amzn.to/4xP3oSi Catholic Inspiration podcast at https://amzn.to/43Y3Y2L Books about Saint Peter at https://amzn.to/4c7U0RG Books about Saint Paul at https://amzn.to/4xSYoML ENJOY Ad-Free content, Bonus episodes, and Extra materials when joining our growing community on https://patreon.com/markvinet SUPPORT this channel by purchasing any product on Amazon using this FREE entry LINK https://amzn.to/3POlrUD (Amazon gives us credit at NO extra charge to you). Mark Vinet's TIMELINE video channel: https://youtube.com/c/TIMELINE_MarkVine Mark's History of North America podcast: www.parthenonpodcast.com/history-of-north-america Website: https://markvinet.com/podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mark.vinet.9 X (twitter): https://twitter.com/MarkVinet_HNA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/denarynovels Mark's books: https://amzn.to/3k8qrGM Audio credits: Saint of the Day podcasts—29jun2025 Peter & Paul, 11apr2024 Martyrs Processus and Martinian Appian Way, 16jan2024 Chains relics of Peter, Synaxis of the Holy, Glorious and All-praised Twelve Apostles (Greek Orthodox Deacon Jerome Atherholt and Ancient Faith Radio); The Saint of the Day podcast (29jun2024 s2e364 Peter & Paul) Good Catholic and The Catholic Company; Traditional Catholic Daily Devotional (SSPX US District, Angelus Press) Ss. Peter & Paul June 29, 2025; Saint Of The Day podcast with Mike Roberts by Covenant Network (ourcatholicradio.org) 29jun2024 e54 Solemnity of Saint Peter and Saint Paul; Catholic Inspiration with Fr. Andrew Ricci—St. Peter and St. Paul (June 29, 2024) Cathedral Rectory - Superior, WI. studyprayserve.com. Audio excerpts reproduced under the Fair Use (Fair Dealings) Legal Doctrine for purposes such as criticism, comment, teaching, education, scholarship, research and news reporting.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

June 29 is the annual Feast of the Solemnity of the Apostles Peter and Paul. Let's enjoy the Gospel of Luke 5:1-26 which relates the story of Jesus' first encounter with Simon (Peter) by Lake Gennesaret (Sea of Galilee). Breathe Bible Audio CD available at https://amzn.to/3CPRa4x Gospel of Luke available at https://amzn.to/3M6sTId Historical Jesus books available at https://amzn.to/43rnYbq ENJOY Ad-Free content, Bonus episodes, and Extra materials when joining our growing community on https://patreon.com/markvinet SUPPORT this channel by purchasing any product on Amazon using this FREE entry LINK https://amzn.to/3POlrUD (Amazon gives us credit at NO extra charge to you). Mark's TIMELINE video channel: https://youtube.com/c/TIMELINE_MarkVinet Website: https://markvinet.com/podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mark.vinet.9 Twitter: https://twitter.com/HistoricalJesu Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/denarynovels Mark's books: https://amzn.to/3k8qrGM Audio credits: Breathe Bible podcast (LifeAudio Podcast Network, Salem Web Network). Audio excerpts reproduced under the Fair Use (Fair Dealings) Legal Doctrine for purposes such as criticism, comment, teaching, education, scholarship, research and news reporting. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Matthew's Gospel, recounts the story of the call of the first disciples, Simon Peter and Andrew. When they encounter Jesus, the Capernaum fishermen drop everything and follow him. June 29 is the annual Feast of the Solemnity of the Apostles Peter and Paul. Enjoy this ENCORE Presentation! Bishop Robert Barron books available at https://amzn.to/44W7nwN Gospel of Matthew available at https://amzn.to/3LEeP8F ENJOY Ad-Free content, Bonus episodes, and Extra materials when joining our growing community on https://patreon.com/markvinet SUPPORT this channel by purchasing any product on Amazon using this FREE entry LINK https://amzn.to/3POlrUD (Amazon gives us credit at NO extra charge to you). Mark Vinet's TIMELINE video channel: https://youtube.com/c/TIMELINE_MarkVinet Mark's History of North America podcast: www.parthenonpodcast.com/history-of-north-america Website: https://markvinet.com/podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mark.vinet.9 Twitter: https://twitter.com/HistoricalJesu Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/denarynovels Mark's books: https://amzn.to/3k8qrGM Audio credits: Bishop Barron’s Sunday Sermons-Go to Joseph, Episode #360, 27dec2023 (Word on Fire Catholic Ministries). Audio excerpts reproduced under the Fair Use (Fair Dealings) Legal Doctrine for purposes such as criticism, comment, teaching, education, scholarship, research and news reporting.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Stewardship is how we manage _________________ God has entrusted to us.[1 Timothy 6:6-8] Yet true godliness with contentment is itself great wealth. [7] After all, we brought nothing with us when we came into the world, and we can't take anything with us when we leave it. [8] So if we have enough food and clothing, let us be content.Everything that passes through your hands in this life is _________________.[Psalm 24:1] The earth is the LORD's, and everything in it. The world and all its people belong to him.Ownership is an _________________, stewardship is _________________.God evaluates stewardship by _________________.[Luke 16:10a] "If you are faithful in little things, you will be faithful in large ones.God asks us to faithfully MANAGE what He has given us.[John 6:8-9] Then Andrew, Simon Peter's brother, spoke up. [9] "There's a young boy here with five barley loaves and two fish. But what good is that with this huge crowd?"A _________________ becomes _________________ when God is involved.[Mark 10:15] I tell you the truth, anyone who doesn't receive the Kingdom of God like a child will never enter it."[Matthew 19:22] But when the young man heard this, he went away sad, for he had many possessions.Stewardship is ultimately a _________________ issue.[Proverbs 3:9] Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the best part of everything you produce.When you realize everything belongs to God, generosity becomes _________________.[2 Corinthians 9:7-8] You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don't give reluctantly or in response to pressure. "For God loves a person who gives cheerfully." [8] And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others.God doesn't _________________ what we have, He _________________ us into what He's doing.

Matthew Week 142   Matthew 26:14-16 ESV   14 Then one of the twelve, whose name was Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests 15 and said, "What will you give me if I deliver him over to you?" And they paid him thirty pieces of silver. 16 And from that moment he sought an opportunity to betray him.       Exodus 21:16 ESV   16 "Whoever steals a man and sells him, and anyone found in possession of him, shall be put to death.       Deuteronomy 15:12-14 ESV   12 "If your brother, a Hebrew man or a Hebrew woman, is sold to you, he shall serve you six years, and in the seventh year you shall let him go free from you. 13 And when you let him go free from you, you shall not let him go empty-handed. 14 You shall furnish him liberally out of your flock, out of your threshing floor, and out of your winepress. As the Lord your God has blessed you, you shall give to him.       Exodus 21:5-6 ESV   5 But if the slave plainly says, 'I love my master, my wife, and my children; I will not go out free,' 6 then his master shall bring him to God, and he shall bring him to the door or the doorpost. And his master shall bore his ear through with an awl, and he shall be his slave forever.       Exodus 21:32 ESV   32 If the ox gores a slave, male or female, the owner shall give to their master thirty shekels of silver, and the ox shall be stoned.       Philippians 2:3-8 NIV   3 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, 4 not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.   5 In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus:   6 Who, being in very nature God,   did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage;   7 rather, he made himself nothing   by taking the very nature of a servant,   being made in human likeness.   8 And being found in appearance as a man,   he humbled himself   by becoming obedient to death—   even death on a cross!       Zechariah 11:7, 10-14 ESV   7 So I became the shepherd of the flock doomed to be slaughtered by the sheep traders. And I took two staffs, one I named Favor, the other I named Union. And I tended the sheep.       10 And I took my staff Favor, and I broke it, annulling the covenant that I had made with all the peoples. 11 So it was annulled on that day, and the sheep traders, who were watching me, knew that it was the word of the Lord. 12 Then I said to them, "If it seems good to you, give me my wages; but if not, keep them." And they weighed out as my wages thirty pieces of silver. 13 Then the Lord said to me, "Throw it to the potter"—the lordly price at which I was priced by them. So I took the thirty pieces of silver and threw them into the house of the Lord, to the potter. 14 Then I broke my second staff Union, annulling the brotherhood between Judah and Israel.       John 6:70-71 ESV   70 Jesus answered them, "Did I not choose you, the twelve? And yet one of you is a devil." 71 He spoke of Judas the son of Simon Iscariot, for he, one of the twelve, was going to betray him.     Matthew 17:22-23 ESV   22 As they were gathering in Galilee, Jesus said to them, "The Son of Man is about to be delivered into the hands of men, 23 and they will kill him, and he will be raised on the third day." And they were greatly distressed.       Matthew 20:18 ESV   18 "See, we are going up to Jerusalem. And the Son of Man will be delivered over to the chief priests and scribes, and they will condemn him to death       Hebrews 10:14 NIV   For by one sacrifice he has made perfect forever those who are being made holy.       Isaiah 55:8-9 ESV   For my thoughts are not your thoughts,   neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord.   9 For as the heavens are higher than the earth,   so are my ways higher than your ways   and my thoughts than your thoughts.       Galatians 2:20 NIV   20 I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.       John 13:9-11 ESV   9 Simon Peter said to him, "Lord, not my feet only but also my hands and my head!" 10 Jesus said to him, "The one who has bathed does not need to wash, except for his feet, but is completely clean. And you are clean, but not every one of you." 11 For he knew who was to betray him; that was why he said, "Not all of you are clean."       Ephesians 6:12 ESV   12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.       1 Corinthians 10:11-12 NIV   11 These things happened to them as examples and were written down as warnings for us, on whom the culmination of the ages has come. 12 So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don't fall!          

" Another of his disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter's brother, spoke up,  “Here is a boy with five small barley loaves and two small fish, but how far will they go among so many?”Jesus said, “Have the people sit down.” There was plenty of grass in that place, and they sat down (about five thousand men were there). Jesus then took the loaves, gave thanks, and distributed to those who were seated as much as they wanted. He did the same with the fish.  When they had all had enough to eat, he said to his disciples, “Gather the pieces that are left over. Let nothing be wasted.” So they gathered them and filled twelve baskets with the pieces of the five barley loaves left over by those who had eaten." John 6:8-13Have an episode idea you want to hear about? Shoot me a message here!Support the showShe Loved: Resting in the Beauty of Motherhood (New Motherhood Book with Ascension- Be encouraged and uplifted: www.ascensionpress.com/sheloved)I am convinced that God is on mission to restore and revive the beautiful vocation of motherhood right here and right now! Let's build up this community of catholic moms who are answering the call to this mighty work!If this episode blessed you, I would be so honored if you shared it with a friend, rated it, or left us a review! Support the show!!If you want to come join our community and help support the show I'd be so blessed! www.patreon.com/latteandlaundrypodcastI always love to connect :suzanne@latteandlaundry.com

In this episode, we explore the life of Andrew, one of Jesus' first disciples, and a man whose quiet faith had an extraordinary impact. Although Andrew is not mentioned as often as some of the other apostles, a consistent pattern appears throughout the Gospels: Andrew was always bringing people to Jesus.   After hearing John the Baptist identify Jesus as the Messiah, Andrew followed Jesus and then immediately went to find his brother, Simon Peter, saying, “We have found the Messiah.” Andrew's first recorded act was introducing someone else to Jesus—a moment that would ultimately influence the ministry of Peter and the growth of the early church. Featuring Chris Harper

What are you holding on to that's keeping you from fully following Jesus? This week in our collection called "Who You Are," Pastor Todd walks us through a powerful moment where Simon Peter leaves behind his plans, his livelihood, and his comfort to follow Jesus. Listen now to hear how faith often means obeying when it doesn't make sense, trusting God's power when our efforts have failed, and surrendering everything to follow Him.

We're so glad you are here! Thanks for checking out Sunday's message!-- SUNDAY'S NOTES --Don't store up treasures here on earth, where moths eat them and rust destroys them, and where thieves break in and steal. Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal. Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be. Matthew 6:19-21 NLTSo don't worry about these things, saying, What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear? These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs. Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. Matthew 6:31-33 NLTThe Kingdom of God isn't first on a list, but rather the stand-alone priority for any lists that exist. That evening the disciples came to him and said, “This is a remote place, and it's already getting late. Send the crowds away so they can go to the villages and buy food for themselves.” But Jesus said, “That isn't necessary, you feed them.” Matthew 14:15-16 NLTPhillip: Even if we worked for months, we wouldn't have enough money to feed them! John 6:7 NLTOne of His disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter's brother, said to him, “There's a boy here who has five barley loaves and two fish, but what are they for so many? ”John 6:8-9 MSG.Surely this boy wan't the only one who had something to give, but he was the only one who gave?The most critical need in the world is for people of faith to give everything they are and have to God.Anyone who doesn't receive the Kingdom of God like a child will never enter it. Luke 18:17 NLTThe little boy didn't withhold a single fish or a barley loaf or two!Often, the things we refuse to release are keeping us from receiving the things only God's hand can give. Tell everyone to sit down, Jesus said. So they all sat down on the grassy slopes. (men numbered about 5,000.) Then Jesus took the loaves, gave thanks to God, and distributed them to the people. Afterward he did the same with the fish. And they all ate as much as they wanted. John 6:10-11 NLTJesus received the little boys gift of obedience and he'll except yours as well.Jesus will take your simple offering of obedience and do miraculously more than anyone could ever imagine.When the people had eaten their fill, he said to his disciples, “Gather the leftovers so nothing is wasted.” They went to work and filled twelve large baskets with leftovers from the five barley loaves. John 6:12-13 MSGJesus didn't come to make our hands empty; He came to make our hearts and lives full.No one has ever given their all the way that Jesus has given His all for us. Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. Matthew 6:33 NLT-------------------------------------------------Download the 828 Church app!To view our latest e-newsletter, the Midweek Momentum, and subscribe to our weekly updates, go here! https://linktr.ee/828church

1 And it came to pass, that when the multitudes pressed upon him to hear the word of God, he stood by the lake of Genesareth,Factum est autem, cum turbae irruerunt in eum ut audirent verbum Dei, et ipse stabat secus stagnum Genesareth. 2 And saw two ships standing by the lake: but the fishermen were gone out of them, and were washing their nets.Et vidit duas naves stantes secus stagnum : piscatores autem descenderant, et lavabant retia. 3 And going into one of the ships that was Simon's, he desired him to draw back a little from the land. And sitting he taught the multitudes out of the ship.Ascendens autem in unam navim, quae erat Simonis, rogavit eum a terra reducere pusillum. Et sedens docebat de navicula turbas. 4 Now when he had ceased to speak, he said to Simon: Launch out into the deep, and let down your nets for a draught.Ut cessavit autem loqui, dixit ad Simonem : Duc in altum, et laxate retia vestra in capturam. 5 And Simon answering said to him: Master, we have labored all the night, and have taken nothing: but at thy word I will let down the net.Et respondens Simon, dixit illi : Praeceptor, per totam noctem laborantes nihil cepimus : in verbo autem tuo laxabo rete. 6 And when they had done this, they enclosed a very great multitude of fishes, and their net broke.Et cum hoc fecissent, concluserunt piscium multitudinem copiosam : rumpebatur autem rete eorum. 7 And they beckoned to their partners that were in the other ship, that they should come and help them. And they came, and filled both the ships, so that they were almost sinking.Et annuerunt sociis, qui erant in alia navi, ut venirent, et adjuvarent eos. Et venerunt, et impleverunt ambas naviculas, ita ut pene mergerentur. 8 Which when Simon Peter saw, he fell down at Jesus' knees, saying: Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord.Quod cum vidisset Simon Petrus, procidit ad genua Jesu, dicens : Exi a me, quia homo peccator sum, Domine. 9 For he was wholly astonished, and all that were with him, at the draught of the fishes which they had taken.Stupor enim circumdederat eum, et omnes qui cum illo erant, in captura piscium, quam ceperant : 10 And so were also James and John the sons of Zebedee, who were Simon's partners. And Jesus saith to Simon: Fear not: from henceforth thou shalt catch men.similiter autem Jacobum et Joannem, filios Zebedaei, qui erunt socii Simonis. Et ait ad Simonem Jesus : Noli timere : ex hoc jam homines eris capiens. 11 And having brought their ships to land, leaving all things, they followed him.Et subductis ad terram navibus, relictis omnibus, secuti sunt eum.The Church is here represented by Peter's boat. In the ship of the Church of Jesus, beaten by the waves and tempest of the world, let us put our trust in God.

Be Devoted To Jesus And Not To A Cause John 21:15 15When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?” “Yes, Lord,” he said, “you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.”

13 And Jesus came into the quarters of Caesarea Philippi: and he asked his disciples, saying: Whom do men say that the Son of man is?Venit autem Jesus in partes Caesareae Philippi : et interrogabat discipulos suos, dicens : Quem dicunt homines esse Filium hominis? 14 But they said: Some John the Baptist, and other some Elias, and others Jeremias, or one of the prophets.At illi dixerunt : Alii Joannem Baptistam, alii autem Eliam, alii vero Jeremiam, aut unum ex prophetis. 15 Jesus saith to them: But whom do you say that I am?Dicit illis Jesus : Vos autem, quem me esse dicitis? 16 Simon Peter answered and said: Thou art Christ, the Son of the living God.Respondens Simon Petrus dixit : Tu es Christus, Filius Dei vivi. 17 And Jesus answering, said to him: Blessed art thou, Simon Bar-Jona: because flesh and blood hath not revealed it to thee, but my Father who is in heaven.Respondens autem Jesus, dixit ei : Beatus es Simon Bar Jona : quia caro et sanguis non revelavit tibi, sed Pater meus, qui in caelis est. 18 And I say to thee: That thou art Peter; and upon this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.Et ego dico tibi, quia tu es Petrus, et super hanc petram aedificabo Ecclesiam meam, et portae inferi non praevalebunt adversus eam. 19 And I will give to thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven. And whatsoever thou shalt bind upon earth, it shall be bound also in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose upon earth, it shall be loosed also in heaven.Et tibi dabo claves regni caelorum. Et quodcumque ligaveris super terram, erit ligatum et in caelis : et quodcumque solveris super terram, erit solutum et in caelis.[18] "Thou art Peter": As St. Peter, by divine revelation, here made a solemn profession of his faith of the divinity of Christ; so in recompense of this faith and profession, our Lord here declares to him the dignity to which he is pleased to raise him: viz., that he to whom he had already given the name of Peter, signifying a rock, St. John 1. 42, should be a rock indeed, of invincible strength, for the support of the building of the church; in which building he should be, next to Christ himself, the chief foundation stone, in quality of chief pastor, ruler, and governor; and should have accordingly all fulness of ecclesiastical power, signified by the keys of the kingdom of heaven.[18] "Upon this rock": The words of Christ to Peter, spoken in the vulgar language of the Jews which our Lord made use of, were the same as if he had said in English, Thou art a Rock, and upon this rock I will build my church. So that, by the plain course of the words, Peter is here declared to be the rock, upon which the church was to be built: Christ himself being both the principal foundation and founder of the same. Where also note, that Christ, by building his house, that is, his church, upon a rock, has thereby secured it against all storms and floods, like the wise builder, [Matt 7:24-25].[18] "The gates of hell": That is, the powers of darkness, and whatever Satan can do, either by himself, or his agents. For as the church is here likened to a house, or fortress, built on a rock; so the adverse powers are likened to a contrary house or fortress, the gates of which, that is, the whole strength, and all the efforts it can make, will never be able to prevail over the city or church of Christ. By this promise we are fully assured, that neither idolatry, heresy, nor any pernicious error whatsoever shall at any time prevail over the church of Christ.[19] "Loose upon earth": The loosing the bands of temporal punishments due to sins, is called an indulgence; the power of which is here granted.St Silverius was exiled by order of the Empress Theodosia to the Island of Pontus, where he died, after many privations and sufferings, A.D. 538.

In Week 3 of our Summer at Bethlehem series, our good friend Pastor Mike Linch joins us to share a life-changing word on what it truly means to discover our identity and calling in Christ. Continuing our summer journey through the scriptures that have fundamentally shaped our lives, Pastor Mike takes us to the shores of Galilee in Luke 5:1–11.   Too many of us spend our lives chasing worldly definitions of success, building our own plans, and exhausting ourselves in our own strength—only to end up with empty nets. Through the story of Simon Peter's miraculous catch of fish, this message confronts our need for control and serves as a powerful guide on how to shift from our personal ambitions to a life of true, kingdom-altering impact.  

Join Pastor Jeff as we kick off our VBS recap week by exploring one of life's most important questions: Who is Jesus? Discover why Jesus is God's Promised Son, the Messiah, and the Light of the World who leads us to God. Matthew 16:16 16 Simon Peter answered, "You are the Messiah,[a] the Son of the living God."

To become a follower of Jesus, visit: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/MeetJesus  (NOT a Morning Mindset resource)   ⇒ Get a copy of the MM Companion Journal: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/journal ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: Matthew 16:15–20 - He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” [16] Simon Peter replied, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” [17] And Jesus answered him, “Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah! For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father who is in heaven. [18] And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. [19] I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.” [20] Then he strictly charged the disciples to tell no one that he was the Christ. (ESV) ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ FINANCIALLY SUPPORT THE MORNING MINDSET: (not tax-deductible) -- Become a monthly partner: https://mm-gfk-partners.supercast.com/ -- Underwrite one daily episode: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/daily-sponsor/ -- Give one-time: https://give.cornerstone.cc/careygreen -- Venmo: @CareyNGreen ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ FOREIGN LANGUAGE VERSIONS OF THIS PODCAST: Subscribe to the SPANISH version: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/Spanish Subscribe to the CHINESE version: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/Chinese ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ CONTACT: Carey@careygreen.com   

What if the very thing you see as failure is actually creating room for God to do something greater?In this powerful message from the Netflex and Chill series, Pastor Jamal delivers a life-changing word titled “Space Maker,” challenging us to stop viewing our empty places as evidence of God's absence and start seeing them as opportunities for His presence.Using Luke 5 and the story of Simon Peter's empty fishing boat, Pastor Jamal reveals a profound truth: Jesus didn't choose a boat that was full of fish—He chose the empty one.Why?Because empty things have space.Many of us spend our lives trying to avoid disappointment, failure, and seasons of lack. Yet often it is in those very moments that God gains access to areas of our lives we would never have surrendered otherwise. What feels like loss may actually be God creating room for His purpose.This message challenges listeners to examine their “boat”—the areas of life that represent their identity, livelihood, relationships, priorities, routines, and personal control. Have these spaces become so crowded with fear, pride, success, unforgiveness, comfort, and distractions that there is no room left for Jesus?Pastor Jamal powerfully illustrates how even good things can become obstacles when they occupy space that belongs to God. Careers, achievements, reputations, routines, and even family priorities can unintentionally crowd out the presence and authority of Jesus if we're not careful.

What do you do when life starts to feel like it's spiraling out of control and you can't figure out why?   In this conversation, Haley and Dustin sit down with Levi Lusko, pastor, best-selling author, and founder of Fresh Life Church to talk honestly about grief, loss, and the unexpected season of crisis that led to his newest book, Blessed Are the Spiraling.   Levi shares the devastating loss of his five-year-old daughter, the long reach of grief, and how he found hope in the midst of unimaginable pain. He also opens up about the 18-month personal spiral he walked through in midlife :  panic attacks, identity questions, and the long road back to himself and Jesus.   This conversation will encourage you and challenge you to see your hardest seasons differently. Your most difficult season might just be where God is doing his deepest work.   Subscribe to the podcast and tune in each week as Haley and Dustin share with you what the Bible says about real-life issues with compassion, warmth, and wit.   So you have every reason for hope, for every challenge in life. Because hope means everything.   Hope Talks is a podcast of the ministry of Hope for the Heart.   Listen in to learn more  [0:01:40] Hope as an Anchor in Suffering [0:02:31] Losing a Child and Facing Unimaginable Grief [0:04:32] Hurting with Hope Still Hurts [0:05:00] Jesus' Grief as a Model for Deep Emotion [0:05:40] Choosing Healing over Numbing and Distraction [0:07:16] Beauty from Ashes and Time-Traveling Grief [0:08:20] Healing as Connection, Not Betrayal, to Loved Ones Levi Lusko Resources   Get Levi's book, Blessed are the Spiraling: https://levilusko.com/blessed-are-the-spiraling    Learn more about Levi Lusko: https://levilusko.com/  Hope for the Heart resources   Join us at Called to Care on Saturday, June 13! Learn more about the event here: https://resource.hopefortheheart.org/called-to-care    Connect with Hope for the Heart on social!    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hopefortheheart   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hopefortheheart    Learn more about the ministry and resources of Hope for the Heart: https://www.hopefortheheart.org/    Learn more about Hope Talks and catch up on past episodes: https://www.hopefortheheart.org/hopetalks/    Want to talk with June Hunt on Hope in the Night about a difficult life issue? Schedule a time here: https://resource.hopefortheheart.org/talk-with-june-hope-in-the-night   God's plan for you: https://www.hopefortheheart.org/gods-plan-for-you/   Give to the ministry of Hope for the Heart: https://hopefortheheart.donorsupport.co/page/hope-talks -------------- Bible verses mentioned in this episode Hebrews 6:19 – "We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain." John 11:35 – "Jesus wept." Philippians 2:27 – "Indeed he was ill, and almost died. But God had mercy on him, and not on him only but also on me, to spare me sorrow upon sorrow."  Matthew 5:3-4 – "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted."  Psalm 34:18 – "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." Genesis 28:16 – "When Jacob awoke from his sleep, he thought, 'Surely the Lord is in this place, and I was not aware of it.'" Isaiah 53:5-6 – "But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities... and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all." Isaiah 46:4 – "Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you."  John 6:68 – "Simon Peter answered him, 'Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.'" Jeremiah 12:5 – "If you have raced with men on foot and they have worn you out, how can you compete with horses?" Hebrews 11:37-38 – "They went about in sheepskins and goatskins, destitute, persecuted and mistreated — the world was not worthy of them." Psalm 19:1 – "The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands."

What if the very thing God promised you is too heavy to carry alone?In “No Help, No Harvest,” we dive into Luke 5:7 and uncover a powerful truth: some blessings will break your nets if you refuse partnership. After a night of failure, Simon Peter obeys Jesus and experiences a miracle so overwhelming that he has to shout for help before he loses the harvest.This message confronts isolation, ego, and the pressure to carry everything by yourself. Because sometimes the reason you're overwhelmed isn't because God abandoned you — it's because the harvest was never meant for one boat.Before the nets filled, Jesus was already in the boat. And while His presence produces the miracle, partnership is what helps sustain it.No help. No harvest.

Simon Peter, Thomas (called the Twin), Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two other of His disciples were together. Simon Peter said to them, “I am going fishing.” They said to him, “We will go with you.” They went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing. Just as day was breaking, Jesus stood on the shore; yet the disciples did not know that it was Jesus. Jesus said to them, “Children, do you have any fish?” They answered Him, “No.” He said to them, “Cast the net on the right side of the boat, and you will find some.” So they cast it, and now they were not able to haul it in, because of the quantity of fish. That disciple whom Jesus loved therefore said to Peter, “It is the Lord!” When Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put on his outer garment, for he was stripped for work, and threw himself into the sea. The other disciples came in the boat, dragging the net full of fish, for they were not far from the land, but about a hundred yards off. (John 21:2-8)

My Dad worked to make the money for our family, so my Dad decided where we went on vacation—fishing. Now some people would consider that a dream vacation, but the high-energy, ten-year-old me? No, I didn't think so. After just a little while, I was complaining. I was bored, but of course we kept fishing. Did I mention that my Dad made the money? Well, actually, we did have a good catch there and they were good eating. Catching them was fun. Eating them was fun. In between, there was this one step that was less fun - cleaning them. But for that fish to realize its culinary destiny, it had to be cleaned. I'm Ron Hutchcraft and I want to have A Word With You today about “Fishing for Fish, Fishing for People.” If you're a fisherman, you're probably Jesus' kind of person. Four of the 12 disciples He called were fishermen by trade. When He summoned them to His service, He said, “Come, follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men” (Mark 1:17). He told Simon Peter, “From now on you will catch men” (Luke 5:10). So the business of bringing people into a relationship with Jesus Christ apparently has some things in common with fishing. For example, you don't try to attract the fish with what you're interested in, but what they're interested in. Right? Look, I like pizza. I don't like worms. But if I put pizza on my hook, I'm going home with an empty bucket buddy. I've got to offer what will be interesting to the fish I'm trying to attract. And so, that's how it is with reaching people for Jesus Christ. If all we offer is religious bait, come to our religious meeting to hear a religious speaker talk on a religious subject in a religious place, we probably won't attract many of the lost people who need Christ so desperately. But if we're talking about needs they care about in a place where they feel comfortable, in words they can understand, we have a far better chance of getting them within hearing distance of the gospel. But there's another very important fishing principle we need to keep in mind as we present Jesus to the people around us. It's a principle it seems many believers have never thought about. You ready? You don't clean fish until you catch them! See, too many times, lost people are judged by us rather than loved by us, because we're attacking the things they do. And they do those because they're lost, and instead we should be leading them to the One who will take them from lost to found! You catch them, then you clean them! Actually, God catches them and cleans them, through you. You can see Jesus working that way in Luke 19, beginning with verse 5, our word for today from the Word of God. The whole town is shocked, scandalized, when Jesus says to Zacchaeus, of all people—the town crook, “I must stay at your house today.” As stunned as anyone, the Bible says Zacchaeus “welcomed him gladly. The people started muttering, ‘He has gone to be the guest of a ‘sinner.'” But after meeting Jesus and experiencing His unconditional love, Zacchaeus can't stand his sin anymore. He announces he's going to make right the dishonest wrongs he has done, “If I have cheated anybody out of anything, I will pay back four times the amount.” Jesus announced, “Today salvation has come to this house.” Zacchaeus got clean, but he got caught first! The problem with the lost people you know is not their profanity, not their dishonesty, or not their immorality. They're lost and they're living like it! Their real problem is they need a Savior! Yes, they must repent, but that's part of being rescued by Jesus from their sin! Don't make their lifestyle the issue. Make Jesus the issue, and say with the great spiritual fisherman, Paul, “When I came to you…I resolved to know nothing…except Jesus Christ and Him crucified” (1 Corinthians 2:1-2). If you want to help people be in heaven with you, stick to Jesus. And stick to His cross!