Podcasts about Sodom

July 23rd, 2025 - We welcome back J.C. Miller on why Catholics are leaving the faith. Then we're joined again by Mark Lambert of Catholic Unscripted to discuss Fr. James Martin and the sins of Sodom & Gomorrah. TheStationOfTheCross.com/ACT  

Genesis 18:17-19a, 23-32 - The Lord said, “Shall I hide from Abraham what I am about to do, seeing that Abraham shall surely become a great and mighty nation, and all the nations of the earth shall be blessed in him? For I have chosen him …” Then Abraham drew near and said, “Will You indeed sweep away the righteous with the wicked? Suppose there are fifty righteous within the city. Will You then sweep away the place and not spare it for the fifty righteous who are in it? Far be it from You to do such a thing, to put the righteous to death with the wicked! ... Shall not the Judge of all the earth do what is just?” And the Lord said, “If I find at Sodom fifty righteous in the city, I will spare the whole place for their sake.” Abraham answered and said, “Behold, I have undertaken to speak to the Lord, I who am but dust and ashes. Suppose five of the fifty righteous are lacking. Will You destroy the whole city for lack of five?” And He said, “I will not destroy it if I find forty-five there.” Again he spoke to Him and said, “Suppose forty are found there.” He answered, “For the sake of forty I will not do it.” Then he said, “… Suppose thirty are found there.” He answered, “I will not do it, if I find thirty there.” He said, “… Suppose twenty are found there.” He answered, “For the sake of twenty I will not destroy it.” Then he said, “Oh let not the Lord be angry, and I will speak again but this once. Suppose ten are found there.” He answered, “For the sake of ten I will not destroy it.”

Send us a textJoin Fr. Aaron & Marissa Burt for this week's episode, in which they consider the readings for Proper 12, the Sunday between 7/17-7/23: Genesis 18:20-33; Psalm 138; Colossians 2:6-15; Luke 11:1-13.They discuss Abraham's intercession for Sodom & Gomorrah, gnosticism in Colossae, and Jesus' teaching on prayer.Notes:Ari Lamm's reflection on Sarah's laughterNobody's Mother, by: Sandra L. Glahn--Dwell App--Prayers of the People for Pentecost--2019 Book of Common PrayerPentecost: A Day of Power for All People, by: Emilio AlvarezAudio Sermons for Advent AnglicanThe Bible ProjectThe Bible Project: Colossians1:11Collect1:55  Genesis 18:20-3329:53 Psalm 13832:54 Colossians 2:6-1546:09 Luke 11:1-13 Our outro music is an original song by our friend Dcn. Jeremiah Webster, a poet and professor whose giftedness is rivaled by his humbleness. You can find his published works, including After So Many Fires, with a quick Google.

7/20/2025 Rev. Siyoung Jung Jude 1:1-7 1 Jude, a servant[a] of Jesus Christ and brother of James, To those who are called, beloved in God the Father and kept for[b] Jesus Christ: 2 May mercy, peace, and love be multiplied to you. 3 Beloved, although I was very eager to write to you about our common salvation, I found it necessary to write appealing to you to contend for the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints. 4 For certain people have crept in unnoticed who long ago were designated for this condemnation, ungodly people, who pervert the grace of our God into sensuality and deny our only Master and Lord, Jesus Christ. 5 Now I want to remind you, although you once fully knew it, that Jesus, who saved[c] a people out of the land of Egypt, afterward destroyed those who did not believe. 6 And the angels who did not stay within their own position of authority, but left their proper dwelling, he has kept in eternal chains under gloomy darkness until the judgment of the great day— 7 just as Sodom and Gomorrah and the surrounding cities, which likewise indulged in sexual immorality and pursued unnatural desire,[d] serve as an example by undergoing a punishment of eternal fire.

In this powerful exploration of Genesis 19, we delve into the sobering reality of God's judgment and its implications for our lives. The destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of unrestrained sin and rejection of God's moral order. However, this isn't just a tale of destruction – it's a call to examine our own lives and choices. Are we, like Lot, being pulled towards the allure of a fallen world? Or are we, like Abraham, standing in faith and interceding for others? The message challenges us to guard against the pull of worldly temptations and keep our eyes fixed on God's calling. Importantly, we're reminded that God's judgment isn't arbitrary, but a response to persistent unrepentance and a cry for justice from the oppressed. Yet, even in judgment, we see God's mercy – saving Lot for Abraham's sake, foreshadowing how we are saved through Christ's righteousness. This story urges us to take God's warnings seriously, but also to rest in His covenant promises and the redemption offered through Jesus.

Welcome to "The Bible in Today's World", the show that compares today's world with the Word of God. In general and specifically, are we following the Bible in our daily walks? Is society demanding that we follow the Word of God in all that we do? Does our Almighty Father look upon us and frequently say, "Well done, good and faithful servant!" - or is He thinking of us as He thought/thinks of Sodom and Gomorrah? On today's show, we will discuss 1 Corinthians - Chapters 7 and 8.

When Mercy Meets Judgment - Genesis 19:1-38 While God’s judgment of sin is certain, His mercy is abundant. Worship & Praise: Are You Washed, I Am, Thank You God, I Surrender All

When Mercy Meets Judgment - Genesis 19:1-38 While God’s judgment of sin is certain, His mercy is abundant. Worship & Praise: Are You Washed, I Am, Thank You God, I Surrender All

When God calls us to something new, our first instinct is often to focus on what we lack—our insecurities, fear of rejection, or the possibility of failure. But Matthew 10 reminds us that confidence in God's calling is rooted not in our abilities but in His presence, power, and purpose. Jesus sent His disciples out with authority, without micromanaging their flaws. His instruction? Be wise, stay pure, and keep moving forward—even in the face of rejection. If you’ve ever felt unqualified or hesitant to pursue a new opportunity, this devotional reminds you that godly confidence is less about perfection and more about obedience. Shake off the dust, trust your calling, and walk boldly into your next assignment. Highlights ✨ God doesn’t wait for perfection—He works through our obedience.✨ The disciples were imperfect but sent anyway. So are we.✨ Jesus’ instruction to "shake off the dust" is a bold reminder: don’t carry rejection into your next opportunity.✨ Confidence in God’s call means focusing more on His power than our past mistakes.✨ Like the disciples, we are chosen, equipped, and sent to make an impact. Join the Conversation Have you ever shaken the dust off and stepped out in faith, even when you felt unqualified? Share your story with us and encourage someone else! Tag us @lifeaudionetwork and use #CalledWithConfidence to join the conversation.

In der Geschichte der Völker kann man feststellen, dass Gott dann Gericht über sie brachte, wenn das Maß ihrer Sünde voll war. Auch in unserer Gesellschaft wird es ebenso sein. Wenn das Maß voll ist, schlägt Gott zu. Ein Beispiel dafür ist die Zeit Noahs in der Bibel und Sodom und Gomorras. Gott hatte lange Geduld mit den Menschen damals. In beiden Fällen war die Sünde geradezu himmelschreiend.

Hoy viernes tenemos un día lleno de novedades. Abrimos con lo más reciente de Paradise Lost, los brutales Desaster y el último disco de Sodom, destacado en nuestro sitio web. El bloque nacional abre con la tremenda banda nacional @mawizakvlt, portada de nuestra última Revista Rockaxis y finalizamos con la destacada banda @peak.level.music Escúchanos por www.rockaxis.fm los viernes a las 10:00 y 22:00 hrs. Capítulos disponibles en Spotify, Google Podcast y Apple Music. Conduce: @maxiasmm

Today's Topics: 1, 2, 3, 4) Gospel - Matthew 11:20-24 - Jesus began to reproach the towns where most of His mighty deeds had been done, since they had not repented. "Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the mighty deeds done in your midst had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would long ago have repented in sackcloth and ashes. But I tell you, it will be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon on the day of judgment than for you. And as for you, Capernaum: Will you be exalted to heaven? You will go down to the netherworld. For if the mighty deeds done in your midst had been done in Sodom, it would have remained until this day. But I tell you, it will be more tolerable for the land of Sodom on the day of judgment than for you." Memorial of Saint Bonaventure, Bishop and Doctor of the Church Saint Bonaventure, pray for us! Bishop Sheen quote of the day Steve Ray joins Terry for an in-depth look at the Assumption of Mary into heaven

Gospel  Matthew 11:20-24 Jesus began to reproach the towns where most of his mighty deeds had been done, since they had not repented. "Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the mighty deeds done in your midst had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would long ago have repented in sackcloth and ashes. But I tell you, it will be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon on the day of judgment than for you. And as for you, Capernaum: Will you be exalted to heaven? You will go down to the netherworld. For if the mighty deeds done in your midst had been done in Sodom, it would have remained until this day. But I tell you, it will be more tolerable for the land of Sodom on the day of judgment than for you.” Reflection What Jesus was doing when he was performing miracles was not just displaying some power that he had, but rather trying to reveal clearly the mercy, the love of the father. Jesus came into this world to reveal who the father is. And when you look at the mighty deeds that he did, the healings, the transformations, they were the essence of who God the Father truly is. So what he longs for is for people to accept this new image. And yet so many refused. But he continued, always to long for them to change. Closing Prayer Father, you continue to awaken us to the beauty of who God the father truly is. Help us to believe in the miracles that you perform for us. Help us to be excited about the role that you continue to play in our lives, where you are the source of so many solutions that bring us peace. And we ask this in Jesus' name, Amen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jesus began to reproach the townswhere most of his mighty deeds had been done,since they had not repented."Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida!For if the mighty deeds done in your midsthad been done in Tyre and Sidon,they would long ago have repented in sackcloth and ashes.But I tell you, it will be more tolerablefor Tyre and Sidon on the day of judgment than for you.And as for you, Capernaum:Will you be exalted to heaven?You will go down to the netherworld.For if the mighty deeds done in your midst had been done in Sodom,it would have remained until this day.But I tell you, it will be more tolerablefor the land of Sodom on the day of judgment than for you."

In jener Zeit begann Jesus, den Städten, in denen er die meisten Machttaten getan hatte, Vorwürfe zu machen, weil sie nicht Buße getan hatten: Weh dir, Chórazin! Weh dir, Betsáida! Denn wenn in Tyrus und Sidon die Machttaten geschehen wären, die bei euch geschehen sind – längst schon wären sie in Sack und Asche umgekehrt. Das sage ich euch: Tyrus und Sidon wird es am Tag des Gerichts erträglicher ergehen als euch. Und du, Kafárnaum, wirst du etwa bis zum Himmel erhoben werden? Bis zur Unterwelt wirst du hinabsteigen. Wenn in Sodom die Machttaten geschehen wären, die bei dir geschehen sind, dann stünde es noch heute. Das sage ich euch: Dem Gebiet von Sodom wird es am Tag des Gerichts erträglicher ergehen als dir.

Sunday, 13 July 2025   At that time Jesus answered and said, “I thank You, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that You have hidden these things from the wise and prudent and have revealed them to babes. Matthew 11:25   “In that time, Jesus answering, He said, ‘I acknowledge You, Father, Lord “the heaven and the earth” that You hid these from wise and sagacious, and You revealed them to infants'” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus told Capernaum that it would be sufferable on Judgment Day for Sodom in comparison to them. He now openly speaks to the Father with words based on how these things have played out, beginning with, “In that time, Jesus answering.”   As often occurs in Scripture, the word answer is not in response to a question but a matter. Jesus has been speaking about the judgment of God upon those who should have known better. As a response to that thought, He continues with, “He said, ‘I acknowledge You, Father.'”   The word exomologeó is used. It was already seen in Matthew 3:6. The word signifies to acknowledge. By extension, that can mean to confess, such as in confessing (acknowledging) one's sins, professing one's allegiance, etc. Jesus is acknowledging the ways of His Father who is “Lord ‘the heaven and the earth.'”   It is an all-encompassing thought that indicates what is expressed in Isaiah 55 –   “‘For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,' says 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.'” Isaiah 55:8, 9   That this is what is expressed is seen in Jesus' next words, “that You hid these from wise and sagacious.”   The word sunetos is introduced. It signifies someone who can mentally put things together. It may be deemed as intelligence where one plus one equals two. It may be a form of prudence, as in “this and this together are not safe and should not be mixed,” etc. The word sagacious fits because it describes someone with keen mental discernment and who possesses and uses good judgment.   In God's infinite wisdom, He makes the most important matters of all those that must be received by faith. The wise and sagacious will spend their effort working out matters, relying on their own wits, experience, and mental acuity to come to conclusions. Such a person trusts in self, not in God, for the answer to a matter. On the other hand, Jesus says, “and You revealed them to infants.”   An infant is not capable of deep thought. He cannot process information because he has no experience or training to do so. He is given instruction, and he will trust that one who has the wisdom is rightly instructing him. This is what Jesus says about those He has been referring to.   Chorazin, Bethsaida, Capernaum, and Israel at large had all of Jesus' words and miracles to attest to who He is. However, they failed to accept Him by simply believing what their eyes saw and what the Father had said in His word. They were trying to process a Messiah in their minds that fit a different paradigm, and they missed the simplicity of what Jesus presented.   As such, Jesus is acknowledging the wisdom of God because of how things had been laid out by Him. Surely, His ways are higher than the ways of man.   Life application: The words of Jesus are later reflected in the words of Paul –   “For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. 19 For it is written: ‘I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, And bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent.' 20 Where is the wise? Where is the scribe? Where is the disputer of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of this world? 21 For since, in the wisdom of God, the world through wisdom did not know God, it pleased God through the foolishness of the message preached to save those who believe. 22 For Jews request a sign, and Greeks seek after wisdom; 23 but we preach Christ crucified, to the Jews a stumbling block and to the Greeks foolishness, 24 but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. 25 Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men.” 1 Corinthians 1:18-25   Paul tells us that the simplicity of the gospel is something most intelligent and prudent people will stumble over. They cannot grasp that God has brought man's salvation down to simple belief. Their great intellects will call out to them, “You can do it! You can figure out how to please God with your wisdom.”   But God has said, “I have done it all. I just want you to trust Me. Have faith that I will carry you through.” This is nonsense to those who look at their own power, determination, wisdom, etc.  It is the “I” problem that seems hopelessly instilled in humanity. Only those who trust like a little child will set themselves aside.   Later in the same passage, Paul says not many of those higher categories will do so. He doesn't say none will. Some are so prudent that they know they will never be prudent enough. Such a person will acknowledge, “I can't attain to Your station, O God. Receive me despite my failings. I trust in Jesus.”   This is what God expects from His creatures... trust. Have faith in what God has done. It is sufficient to restore you to Him.   Lord God, help us to be people of faith. May we be willing to remove ourselves from the salvation equation and trust You, wholly and without reservation, to restore us to You. Your plan is set, it is recorded, and You ask us to believe. May our hearts be tender and do so. Amen.  

In this powerful exploration of Genesis 18, we delve into the transformative nature of intercessory prayer. The story of Abraham pleading with God for Sodom and Gomorrah teaches us that true spirituality isn't just about personal blessings, but about engaging with God's mission in the world. We're challenged to leverage our relationship with God on behalf of others, standing in the gap for those who may not even realize they need prayer. This passage reveals the delicate balance between God's justice and mercy, ultimately pointing us to the gospel - where Jesus, the one truly righteous person, became our intercessor. As we grasp this truth, it should reshape how we view our relationship with God, our perception of the world's brokenness, and inspire us to bring bold requests before our King. Are we ready to move beyond self-focused prayers and embrace our role as priests in this broken world?

Welcome to "The Bible in Today's World", the show that compares today's world with the Word of God. In general and specifically, are we following the Bible in our daily walks? Is society demanding that we follow the Word of God in all that we do? Does our Almighty Father look upon us and frequently say, "Well done, good and faithful servant!" - or is He thinking of us as He thought/thinks of Sodom and Gomorrah? On today's show, we will discuss 1 Corinthians - Chapters 4, 5, and 6.

Episode Notes Mister Burkitt said, “‘As soon as [ you ] shall see the Roman army appear before the city of Jerusalem, (called by St. Matthew and St. Mark, The abomination of desolation, that is, the army which is such an abomination to you, and the occasion of such desolation wherever it goes,) then let every one that values his own safety fly as far and as fast as he can, as Lot fled from the flames of Sodom: and be glad, if by flight he can save his life, though he lose all besides.'”. Remember Lot? Please visit our Outreach Web site! ~ Home Page. Find us on Cawfee Club Social Media here: https://cawfee.club/John Simply use this link to go to our home page. Log-In not required. (Returning Soon) Introduction ~ About Us, Who We Are: Episode 1 How-To Be Saved: Episode 2 “End Times” and “Benediction” A “Barking Squirrel Production” Copyright: 2018 ~ All Rights Reserved Our Series: “Luke: The Desolation of Jerusalem”: 2025-0702 Episode: 28 Copyright: 2025 TAGS: #Gospel #Christ #Newbirth #Joy #Holiness This podcast is powered by Pinecast.

Saturday, 12 July 2025   But I say to you that it shall be more tolerable for the land of Sodom in the day of judgment than for you.” Matthew 11:24   “Moreover, I say to you that it will be sufferable – land Sodom – in Judgment Day than you” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus noted that if the miracles done in Sodom had been done in Capernaum, it would have remained till that day. And more! He continues with, “Moreover, I say to you that it will be sufferable – land Sodom – in Judgment Day than you.”   The thought is the same as that of Tyre and Sidon in comparison to Chorazin and Bethsaida in verse 22. Just as the judgment of those two Jewish cities would be weightier than for the two wicked Gentile cities, so would the judgment of Capernaum be in comparison to that of Sodom.   The people of those cities would have been offended at such a thought. The judgment on Sodom because of their vile deeds was a key theme in their Scriptures. To be compared to Sodom, and then to be condemned as more deserving of judgment than it, would have been the highest form of offense.   Jews reading that today would still find it offensive. No wonder so many hear Jesus' words and find them offensive. Until one understands the reason, the pronouncement would seem intolerable. However, with greater revelation comes greater responsibility.   The city of Sodom may have been filled with sexual deviants who rejected the natural order for humanity, but they only had the general revelation of God to guide them. Capernaum had the full body of Old Testament Scriptures to instruct them.   In seeing Jesus' miracles and not making the connection of Him to being the fullest revelation of God ever made manifest, they were more worthy of condemnation than the perverted city of Sodom.   Life application: Imagine the guilt of those who have read the entire Bible, understood the evidence for the coming of Jesus, His fulfillment of the promises of God, His atoning death, internment, and resurrection, and then rejecting what they have read!   What more can God have done than what is recorded in Scripture to make it evident that He has fulfilled every promise concerning the restoration of life for those who believe? At some point, faith must be a part of the equation. Five days after Jesus ascended, some Jew may have arrived in Israel who had never heard of His coming.   He couldn't say, “Ok, God, please send Jesus back so I can verify what these men say is true.” Nor could he ask for a video recording of it all to make sure He really did what had been claimed. For that Jew, faith must now come into play.   The same is true with us. People who sit on YouTube all day watching videos from false teachers about their visions and divine revelations are using faith in believing what they are being told. Their faith is just misdirected.   Though not a video recording of Jesus' life, the Bible is a record of it nonetheless. It was carefully compiled over the centuries, slowly and methodically expressing God's ongoing hand in the plan of redemption. When that plan was fully expressed, the final word of Scripture, the word Amen at the end of Revelation 22:21, was penned.   Now, we have everything necessary to competently know what God has done. From there, we can decide if the evidence is sufficient for us to accept and believe. Assuredly, it is. There is no need to look for further evidence from God concerning visions, prophecies, and revelations on YouTube. The word has been sealed.   Trust what God has presented, accept the gospel message of Jesus Christ, and be saved. To reject what is penned there, due to the complete nature of the revelation expressed, means that the one who is rejecting it is worthy of great condemnation. Don't be such a person. Believe and be saved! Trust what God in Christ has done by believing the message found in the pages of the Holy Bible!   Heavenly Father, may we not neglect the truth of Your word, but read it, accept it, and apply it to our walk with You all the days of our lives. In it is found life, because in it we find Jesus. Thank You for what You have done in the sending of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Yes, thank You, O God. Amen.  

Today's Topics: 1) Gospel - Matthew 10:7-15 - Jesus said to His Apostles: "As you go, make this proclamation: 'The Kingdom of heaven is at hand.' Cure the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, drive out demons. Without cost you have received; without cost you are to give. Do not take gold or silver or copper for your belts; no sack for the journey, or a second tunic, or sandals, or walking stick. The laborer deserves his keep. Whatever town or village you enter, look for a worthy person in it, and stay there until you leave. As you enter a house, wish it peace. If the house is worthy, let your peace come upon it; if not, let your peace return to you. Whoever will not receive you or listen to your words— go outside that house or town and shake the dust from your feet. Amen, I say to you, it will be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah on the day of judgment than for that town." Bishop Sheen quote of the day 2, 3) Brandon Otto on his new translation of Saint Claude La Colombière's: Seeking the Heart of Christ (TAN Books) https://tanbooks.com/products/books/seeking-the-heart-of-christ-christian-reflections-on-the-interior-life/ 4) This June, Christ the King conquers LGBT https://www.returntoorder.org/2025/07/this-june-christ-is-king-conquers-lgbtq/

Friday, 11 July 2025   And you, Capernaum, who are exalted to heaven, will be brought down to Hades; for if the mighty works which were done in you had been done in Sodom, it would have remained until this day. Matthew 11:23   “And you, Capernaum, the ‘until heaven you having been elevated,' until Hades, you will be descended. For if in Sodom they occurred – the miracles, the ‘having occurred in you' – it remained, if until the day” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus referred to the difference between Tyre and Sidon and Chorazin and Bethsaida on the day of judgment. Next, He says, “And you, Capernaum.”   More miracles of Jesus are recorded in Capernaum than in any other city. It was essentially His staging area, going and returning to it while ministering to other cities. So notable were His miracles there that in Luke 4:23, it says –   “He said to them, ‘You will surely say this proverb to Me, “Physician, heal yourself! Whatever we have heard done in Capernaum, do also here in Your country.”'”   In other words, the word about His miracles in Capernaum had extended beyond there, filling the ears of people in other cities. It is 52 miles from Capernaum to Nazareth, indicating that what the people saw in Capernaum was more than a curious event spoken by a couple of friends, but a word that was conveyed with such excitement that it was passed on until many were made aware of what transpired. Of Capernaum, Jesus next calls it, “the ‘until heaven you having been elevated.'”   Here, Jesus introduces the word hupsoó, to exalt. Specifically, it means to raise high or lift up. Metaphorically, the idea of exaltation is then seen.   The meaning is that because of Jesus' ministry there, the people had been provided the highest form of God's favor. They saw Jesus' miracles, they witnessed His perfection, they heard His instruction, etc.   The incarnate Word of God made that city His dwelling and focal point for ministering to the nation of Israel. No greater favor could ever be imagined. What they saw and heard was more of a revelation of God's favor and call upon the nation than that of any prophet before, including Moses. But because of their hardened hearts, Jesus says, “until Hades, you will be descended.”   Though they had the keys to heaven itself extended to them in the Person of Jesus and the ministry He conducted among them, they chose to reject Him and continue life apart from His saving grace.   Instead of continuing to be exalted to heaven, they would be cast down to Hades, meaning Sheol, the place of the dead, awaiting the final judgment. Unfortunately for the city, their judgment will not be a happy one. Jesus next says, “For if in Sodom.”   Without going any further, it is a note of utter contempt. Capernaum is being contrasted to the city representative of the epitome of wickedness in the Old Testament. The story of Sodom is recorded in Genesis, but it is referred to almost twenty times elsewhere in the Old Testament.   The city was so wicked that its misdeeds reached the ears of the Lord in heaven. It was judged and destroyed by fire. However, Jesus continues, saying that if “they occurred – the miracles, the ‘having occurred in you' – it remained, if until the day.”   About two thousand years had passed since the time of Sodom's destruction, and yet, Jesus says that if the miracles that were performed in Capernaum were performed in Sodom, the wicked city would have turned and been so affected by what He had done that they would have remained, without destruction, until that day.   Having said that, the destruction of Capernaum eventually came about in approximately the 7th century AD. The town was completely abandoned in the 11th century.   Life application: To this day, the stories concerning Jesus' ministry are read and remembered by Christians. We believe, by faith, that what is recorded in the New Testament is a true account of what Jesus did as He ministered among the people.   Stories have been written, songs have been sung, plays have been presented, and movies have been made concerning the great things Jesus did. The church has been founded on the deeds of the Messiah, and it has proclaimed this message throughout the world.   In nations and cultures of people throughout the world, tears have been shed and hearts have been converted through the words about Jesus, just as He said would happen. During this same time, the name of Jesus has been used as a curse among the people of Israel.   There has been a wall of enmity put up against Him that seemed impenetrable. However, that wall has slowly but steadily been broken open over the past century. With each passing year, more Jews hear and accept the word concerning Jesus Christ.   Someday, as incredible as it seems at this point, the entire nation will proclaim that Jesus is Lord to the glory of God. Seeing the state of affairs in the world and the alignment of the nations in relation to biblical prophecy, it doesn't seem like it will be a long time until these things come about.   Keep sharing the word! Keep studying the Bible! The message of Jesus is what changes the course of history for the lives of people. Their eternal destiny goes from condemnation to salvation upon the acceptance of the gospel. So be ready to share it at all times!   Heavenly Father, help us to be diligent in our study and in our sharing of Your word. May we be faithful to this calling and willing to get the word out. The world needs Jesus. Each person in the world needs Jesus. May we be willing to share this wonderful story of hope and redemption. Amen.

Gospel Matthew 10:7-15 Jesus said to his Apostles: "As you go, make this proclamation: 'The Kingdom of heaven is at hand.' Cure the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, drive out demons. Without cost you have received; without cost you are to give. Do not take gold or silver or copper for your belts; no sack for the journey, or a second tunic, or sandals, or walking stick. The laborer deserves his keep. Whatever town or village you enter, look for a worthy person in it, and stay there until you leave. As you enter a house, wish it peace. If the house is worthy, let your peace come upon it; if not, let your peace return to you. Whoever will not receive you or listen to your words— go outside that house or town and shake the dust from your feet. Amen, I say to you, it will be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah on the day of judgment than for that town.” Reflection In this gospel we again see Saint Matthew describing the early church, his ministry. It is to be a gift that is given to those who will proclaim it to others, but in an interesting way, they are not to go out and convert pagans to the reality of who God really is but they were to go to the house of Israel. And what they were asked to do was to awaken them, to build on the goodness that is there, the grace, the peace that is in their homes. It's fascinating to me that this was not about conversions, but about fulfillment. And it expresses once again the love that God the Father had and Jesus had for the Jewish people. Closing Prayer Father, there is something about you that is so consistent and so beautiful. You are a lover, and you never give up on those you love. You consistently work with them, help them to see things through experiences they've had. So bless us with an awareness of the confidence that gives us as we too participate in the coming of the Kingdom of God. And we ask this in Jesus' name, Amen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jesus said to his Apostles:"As you go, make this proclamation:'The Kingdom of heaven is at hand.'Cure the sick, raise the dead,cleanse the lepers, drive out demons.Without cost you have received; without cost you are to give.Do not take gold or silver or copper for your belts;no sack for the journey, or a second tunic,or sandals, or walking stick.The laborer deserves his keep.Whatever town or village you enter, look for a worthy person in it,and stay there until you leave.As you enter a house, wish it peace.If the house is worthy,let your peace come upon it;if not, let your peace return to you.Whoever will not receive you or listen to your words—go outside that house or town and shake the dust from your feet.Amen, I say to you, it will be more tolerablefor the land of Sodom and Gomorrah on the day of judgmentthan for that town."

It is often said that every modern welfare system, from the Roman grain dole to the SNAP card at the grocery store, carries the seeds of its own discontent. These systems promise that the collective will carry the burdens of the vulnerable. But they are haunted by a tension older than any bureaucracy: the uneasy craving to see helplessness displayed. To give freely feels good; but to give freely to someone who does not look sufficiently broken or scraping is to stir a resentment no modern slogan can cover.The old village beggar knew this instinctively. He made himself legless, or at least seemed so, rolling on a pallet, bowl tapping his stick, eyes down. He knew to keep the ruined coat for the street and the decent tunic for home. We might call this fraud now, but it was a moral theatre everyone understood: visible ruin earned the coin; hidden dignity stayed private. If the village lost patience, there was no Caesar's office to back him up. The beggar starved or found another corner.What people forget is that even Jesus did not spin up an endless pity machine. He broke loaves and fishes — but He did not invoice Rome for it. When He healed, He did not say, “Stay here on the mat forever so they know you deserve your crust.” He said: “Get up. Take your mat and walk. Show yourself to the priest.” The mat was temporary. The pity was transitional. When the crowd showed contempt, He did not beg: “And He did not do many mighty works there because of their unbelief.” No forced miracle. No charity for the ungrateful. “Shake the dust from your feet. It will be more bearable for Sodom and Gomorrah.”The trouble now is that we pretend to want the poor whole — yet the system depends on them staying visibly needy. The taxpayer votes for the teat to keep flowing but wants the scraping to feel real. If the stumps turn out to be legs, if the mat rolls away too soon, the moral contract snaps. Oh SNAP. The same voice that funds endless foreign wars without flinching will rage at the sight of a welfare recipient standing too straight with a phone or fresh shoes. The sin is not the cost but the pride that threatens to make giver and receiver look too equal.So the beggar learns to play his part. The system, ironically, rewards the subtle con: visible ruin, murmured gratitude, hidden dignities that never leak. But the internet complicates this fragile show — the double life is now broadcast and clipped. The mat is public. The hidden tunic leaks out. The bowl knocks the stick while the other hand posts a joke about scamming the system. The audience sees it and cries, “Fraud!” not because they think every poor man is faking, but because the script cracked on camera.What Jesus knew — and the modern pity machine can't grasp — is that mercy moves on when mocked. There is no endless subsidy for the willfully broken. He never asked Judas to keep the purse open forever. He never told Caesar to levy a tax for those who refuse to stand. “You received without charge; give without charge.” But once the bread is broken, you either stand up or you do not. There is no third option. The healed must leave the mat behind. If they will not — or worse, if they stand up and keep asking for scraps — they force the giver to choose: keep the teat open, or snap it shut.The real disease is not fraud itself but the quiet demand that fraud become ritual. The mat must stay visible, the scraping performative, the healed must display sickness at the right moment to keep the teat alive. This is not Christian mercy. This is the Company Store with a halo, built on a moral economy that does not want the poor to disappear but to remain forever “almost healed.”Jesus offered a harder gift: stand up, walk, or live with your ruin. If you spit on the bread, He will feed you no more. No SNAP card, no empire's pity machine, no endless cost center. Just the Kingdom — or your mat.

Life can hum along like a calm day, blind to the storm on the horizon. In today's message, Pastor Richard compares the end times to Lot's day, when Sodom's people lived carelessly right up until fire fell. Scripture urges believers to stay sober, alert, and vigilant. Some are ready, others aren't. Where do you think you are? The call is clear: turn your heart towards God. Are you living alert, with your heart fixed on Christ's impending return?

Read Online“Whoever will not receive you or listen to your words—go outside that house or town and shake the dust from your feet. Amen, I say to you, it will be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah on the day of judgment than for that town.” Matthew 10:14–15Recall how Jesus harshly condemned the Pharisees for their hardness of heart. In Matthew's Gospel, Chapter 23, Jesus issues seven “woe to you” condemnations of these Pharisees for being hypocrites and blind guides. These condemnations were acts of love on Jesus' part, in that they had the goal of calling them to conversion. Similarly, in today's Gospel, Jesus gives instructions to His Twelve about what they are to do if they preach the Gospel in a town and are rejected. They are to “shake the dust” from their feet.This instruction was given within the context of Jesus sending the Twelve to the “lost sheep of the house of Israel” with the commission of preaching the Gospel.At that time, they were to go to those who had already been entrusted with the message of the Law of Moses and the prophets but were to now proclaim that the Kingdom of God has arrived. Jesus was the promised Messiah, and He was now here. And for those of the house of Israel who reject Jesus, they were to be condemned by this prophetic act of the wiping of the dust of their town from the Apostles' feet. At first, this can seem somewhat harsh. One can think that patience, ongoing discussions, gentleness and the like would be more effective. And though that may be the case in many of our experiences today, the fact remains that Jesus gave the Twelve this command.Just like the condemnation of the Pharisees, this prophetic action of wiping the dust from their feet was an act of love. Certainly, the Apostles were not to do this out of an irrational anger. They were not to do so because their pride was wounded by rejection or because of their disdain for these people. Rather, the Apostles were to do so as a way of showing the consequences of the townspeople's actions. When these towns of the chosen people rejected the promised Messiah, they needed to understand the consequences. They needed to know that by rejecting the messengers, they were rejecting the saving grace of the Gospel.First of all, it's important to consider those about whom Jesus was speaking. He was speaking about those who “will not receive” nor even “listen” to the message of the Gospel. These are those who have fully rejected God and His saving message. They, by their free choice, have separated themselves from God and His holy Gospel. They are stubborn, obstinate and hard of heart. Thus, it is in this most extreme case, of being completely closed to the Gospel, that Jesus instructs His Apostles to leave with this prophetic act. Perhaps upon seeing this done, some people would experience a certain sense of loss. Perhaps some would realize they made a mistake. Perhaps some would experience a holy sense of guilt and would eventually soften their hearts.This teaching of Jesus should also open your eyes. How fully do you receive and listen to the message of the Gospel? How attentive are you to the saving proclamation of God's Kingdom? To the extent that you are open, the floodgates of God's mercy flows forth. But to the extent that you are not, the experience of loss is encountered.Reflect, today, upon your being present in one of these towns. Consider the many ways that you have been closed to all that God wants to speak to you. Open your heart wide, listen with the utmost attentiveness, be humble before the message of the Gospel and be ready to receive it and to change your life as you do. Commit to being a member of the Kingdom of God so that all that God speaks to you will have a transforming effect upon your life.My compassionate Lord, Your firmness and chastisements are an act of Your utmost mercy for those who are hard of heart. Please soften my heart, dear Lord, and when I am stubborn and closed, please rebuke me in Your great love so that I will always turn back to You and Your saving message with all my heart. Jesus, I trust in You.Image: Jesus blesses the Apostolic College by Lawrence OP, license CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.Source of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2025 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.

Wednesday, 9 July 2025   “Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the mighty works which were done in you had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes. Matthew 11:21   “Woe, you, Chorazin! Woe, you, Bethsaida! For if in Tyre and Sidon, they occurred – the miracles, those done in you – if in sackcloth and ashes formerly they reconsidered” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus began to rebuke the cities where He did His mighty works because they did not reconsider their ways. Now, to state His displeasure at them, and to reveal to them their fate, He begins with, “Woe, you, Chorazin!”   The word ouai, woe, is introduced. It is a primary exclamation of grief. Also, the name Chorazin is first seen here. It is a city in Galilee. The origin of the name is uncertain. Studying Hebrew root words that may be connected to the Greek transliteration, Abarim defines it as possibly Smoking Furnace.   The city is about two- and one-half miles north of a location known as Tel Hum. It remains a ruin to this day. Parts of the city are identifiable, such as the synagogue. This and its houses and buildings are built from locally obtained hard black basalt. Some of the walls that remain are up to six feet high. Next, Jesus says, “Woe, you Bethsaida!”   The name is from Beith, house, and tsayad, a huntsman. Thus, it means Hunter's House. However, being by the Sea of Galilee, some think the hunting is referring to fish and call it Fisher's House. It is where Phillip, Andrew, and Peter came from as seen in John 1:44. The location is still known and visited today. Of these cities, Jesus says, “For if in Tyre and Sidon, they occurred – the miracles.”   Turos, Tyre, and Sidón, Sidon, are both first mentioned here. The Hebrew name of Tyre is Tsor. This comes from tsor, flint, or tsur, rock. Thus, it is the fortified city, Rock. Sidon is from the Hebrew tsud, to lie alongside. Therefore, it signifies to hunt, chase, etc., due to the thought of lying in wait. As such, it is a place of fishing, and it is named after those who lie alongside as they fish. Thus, Fishery is its name.   These are cities that were destroyed by the Lord's judgment. Ezekiel was told to prophesy against Tyre in Ezekiel 26. Ezekiel 27 records a lamentation over Tyre. Ezekiel 28 begins with a proclamation against the king of Tyre and then continues in lamentation over the city. That is followed by a proclamation against Sidon in Ezekiel 28:20-24.   The Lord spent a great deal of time laying out His words against them. His descriptions and judgments put them on par with Sodom and Gomorrah as far as examples of wickedness resulting in punishment. Despite that, Jesus tells Chorazin and Bethsaida that if those terrible, wicked cities saw the miracles that Jesus did, “those done in you – if in sackcloth and ashes formerly they reconsidered.”   The adverb palai, formerly, is introduced. It is believed to come from palin, again. As such, it gives the sense of retrocession. It can mean all this time, a long time ago, already, formerly, etc. Jesus is saying that in the past, when they were wickedly going about life, there would have been a change in them.   The implication here is obvious. God used three chapters of Ezekiel, plus other references to Tyre and Sidon in His word (such as Isaiah 23), to reveal their wickedness. And yet, Jesus says that the hearts of these cities were humbler than those of Chorazin and Bethsaida.   If Jesus had gone to them and done His miracles at their time of judgment, they would have done what Nineveh did, reconsidering their ways and demonstrating that change in heart by adorning themselves with sackcloth and ashes.   Both of these words are also new. The first is sakkos, coming from the Hebrew saq, a mesh. It is the course material that would be only fitting in a time of mourning. This would be contrasted to the normal garments where life was going well. The other word, spodos, is a primary word signifying ashes.   The point Jesus is making, and which He will continue to make, is that if God destroyed these cities for their wickedness, how much more do Chorazin and Bethsaida deserve to be destroyed? They have not reconsidered their ways, but God knew that the hearts of Tyre and Sidon would have.   Life application: The meaning of the story of Jonah is a story that mirrors what Jesus is saying here. This is not the usual interpretation that is provided due to translational difficulties in Jonah 4, but when it is properly understood, it is clearly seen that God is contrasting the wickedness of Israel with the wickedness of Nineveh.   Nineveh reconsidered its ways, and God relented from His judgment upon it. Israel, with much greater revelation than Nineveh, refused to reconsider and receive their Messiah. Jesus will use exactly this symbolism in Matthew 12 and Luke 11. Israel didn't pay heed, and they were destroyed and exiled.   But the great covenant-keeping nature of God has spared them for another day. He has faithfully saved them, even through judgment, to bring them into the New Covenant. If He is this faithful to Israel through a covenant cut through the blood of bulls and goats, how much more do you think He will save you through the shed blood of Jesus Christ?   We are often just as unfaithful as Israel in our hearts and actions, but if we are in Christ, He will carry us through to a good end. Be assured and reassured in this.   Lord God, thank You for Your infinite love and grace as is revealed in our Lord and Savior Jesus. Amen.  

On the Shelf for July 2025 The Lesbian Historic Motif Podcast - Episode 318 with Heather Rose Jones Your monthly roundup of history, news, and the field of sapphic historical fiction. In this episode we talk about: TV series: The Buccaneers Recent and upcoming publications covered on the blog Faderman, Lillian. 1978. “Female Same-Sex Relationships in Novels by Longfellow, Holmes, and James” in The New England Quarterly, Vol. 51, No. 3: 309-332 Godbeer, Richard. 1995. “'The Cry of Sodom': Discourse, Intercourse, and Desire in Colonial New England” in The William and Mary Quarterly, Vol. 52, No. 2: 259-286 Manion, Jen. “The Queer History of Passing as a Man in Early Pennsylvania” in Pennsylvania Legacies, vol. 16, no. 1, 2016, pp. 6–11. Vaughan, Alden. 1978. “The Sad Case of Thomas(ine) Hall” in Virginia Magazine of History and Biography 86: 146-48. Oaks, Robert F. 1978. “"Things Fearful to Name": Sodomy and Buggery in Seventeenth-Century New England” in Journal of Social History, Vol. 12, No. 2: 268-281 Wood, Mary E. 1993. “'With Ready Eye': Margaret Fuller and Lesbianism in Nineteenth-Century American Literature” in American Literature 65: 3-4. Comment, Kristin M. 2005. “Charles Brockden Brown's ‘Ormond' and Lesbian Possibility in the Early Republic” in Early American Literature, vol. 40, no. 1, pp. 57–78. Freedman, Estelle B. 1982. “Sexuality in Nineteenth-Century America: Behavior, Ideology, and Politics” in Reviews in American History, Vol. 10, No. 4, The Promise of American History: Progress and Prospects: 196-215 LaFleur, Greta. “Sex and ‘Unsex': Histories of Gender Trouble in Eighteenth-Century North America.” Early American Studies, vol. 12, no. 3, 2014, pp. 469–99. Cleves, Rachel Hope. 2014. Charity & Sylvia: A Same-Sex Marriage in Early America. Oxford University Press, Oxford. ISBN 978-0-19-933542-8 Martin, Sylvia. 1994. “'These Walls of Flesh': The Problem of the Body in the Romantic Friendship/Lesbianism Debate” in Historical Reflections / Réflexions Historiques, Vol. 20, No. 2, Lesbian Histories: 243-266 VanHaitsma, Pamela. 2019. “Stories of Straightening Up: Reading Femmes in the Archives of Romantic Friendship” in QED: A Journal in GLBTQ Worldmaking, Vol. 6, No. 3:1-24 Cleves, Rachel Hope. “Six Ways of Looking at a Trans Man? The Life of Frank Shimer (1826-1901).” Journal of the History of Sexuality, vol. 27, no. 1, 2018, pp. 32–62. Faderman, Lillian. 1979. “Who Hid Lesbian History?” in Frontiers: A Journal of Women Studies, Autumn 1979, Vol. 4, No 3. 74-76. Garber, Linda. 2015. “Claiming Lesbian History: The Romance Between Fact and Fiction” in Journal of Lesbian Studies, 19(1), 129-49. Braunschneider, Theresa. 2004. “Acting the Lover: Gender and Desire in Narratives of Passing Women” in Eighteenth Century: Theory and Interpretation 45, no. 3: 211-29 Recent Lesbian/Sapphic Historical Fiction The Housekeeper's Ledger by Allison Ingram A Truthful Companion By My Side by Claudia Haase Secrets at the Ambrose Café by Carryl Church Salt in the Silk by Delly M. Elrose A Bounty of Bitterwort (Lavender and Foxglove #2) by Hilary Rose Berwick A Rondel of Rosemary (Lavender and Foxglove #3) by Hilary Rose Berwick A League of Lavender (Lavender and Foxglove #4) by Hilary Rose Berwick In Her Own Shoes (The Ferrier Chronicles #1) by Mark Prime The Letters Beneath Her Floorboards by Mira Ashwyn House of Ash and Honor by W.S. Banks Lavender & Gin by Abigail Aaronson The Fortune Hunter's Guide to Love by Emma-Claire Sunday The Rebel Girls of Rome by Jordyn Taylor The Secrets of Harbour House by Liz Fenwick Whispers Beneath the Banyan Bath by Moon Heeyang The Original by Nell Stevens Wayward Girls by Susan Wiggs Miss Veal and Miss Ham by Vikki Heywood What I've been consuming A Rare Find by Joanna Lowell The Unlikely Pursuit of Mary Bennet by Lindz McLeod The Invisible Library by Genevieve Cogman Servant Mage by Kate Elliott A transcript of this podcast is available here. (Interview transcripts added when available.) Links to the Lesbian Historic Motif Project Online Website: http://alpennia.com/lhmp Blog: http://alpennia.com/blog RSS: http://alpennia.com/blog/feed/ Twitter: @LesbianMotif Discord: Contact Heather for an invitation to the Alpennia/LHMP Discord server The Lesbian Historic Motif Project Patreon Links to Heather Online Website: http://alpennia.com Email: Heather Rose Jones Mastodon: @heatherrosejones@Wandering.Shop Bluesky: @heatherrosejones Facebook: Heather Rose Jones (author page)

TJ and Kris talk about the curse of Canaan and how it plays out in the Biblical narrative. Then they discuss the story of the destruction of Sodom, and the way that God responds to the cries of the righteous and evildoers.

GOD first warns, and then smites, he delights not to surprise men; when indignation was coming, he tells his people of it in the text, and admonishes them to hide themselves. "Surely the Lord will do nothing, but he revealeth his secrets to his servants the prophets," Amos 3:7. Thus when the flood was to come upon the old world, he gave them 120 years warning of it, Gen. 6:3. compared with 1 Pet. 3:19. So when Sodom was to be destroyed, God would not hide it from Abraham; Gen. 18:17. "Shall I hide from Abraham the thing that I do?"

Luke 10:1-12, 17-20 At that time the Lord appointed seventy-two otherswhom he sent ahead of him in pairsto every town and place he intended to visit.He said to them,"The harvest is abundant but the laborers are few;so ask the master of the harvestto send out laborers for his harvest.Go on your way;behold, I am sending you like lambs among wolves.Carry no money bag, no sack, no sandals;and greet no one along the way.Into whatever house you enter, first say,'Peace to this household.'If a peaceful person lives there,your peace will rest on him;but if not, it will return to you.Stay in the same house and eat and drink what is offered to you,for the laborer deserves his payment.Do not move about from one house to another.Whatever town you enter and they welcome you,eat what is set before you,cure the sick in it and say to them,'The kingdom of God is at hand for you.'Whatever town you enter and they do not receive you,go out into the streets and say,'The dust of your town that clings to our feet,even that we shake off against you.'Yet know this: the kingdom of God is at hand.I tell you,it will be more tolerable for Sodom on that day than for that town."The seventy-two returned rejoicing, and said,"Lord, even the demons are subject to us because of your name."Jesus said, "I have observed Satan fall like lightning from the sky.Behold, I have given you the power to 'tread upon serpents' and scorpionsand upon the full force of the enemy and nothing will harm you. Nevertheless, do not rejoice because the spirits are subject to you,but rejoice because your names are written in heaven."

Luke 10:1-12, 17-20 At that time the Lord appointed seventy-two otherswhom he sent ahead of him in pairsto every town and place he intended to visit.He said to them,"The harvest is abundant but the laborers are few;so ask the master of the harvestto send out laborers for his harvest.Go on your way;behold, I am sending you like lambs among wolves.Carry no money bag, no sack, no sandals;and greet no one along the way.Into whatever house you enter, first say,'Peace to this household.'If a peaceful person lives there,your peace will rest on him;but if not, it will return to you.Stay in the same house and eat and drink what is offered to you,for the laborer deserves his payment.Do not move about from one house to another.Whatever town you enter and they welcome you,eat what is set before you,cure the sick in it and say to them,'The kingdom of God is at hand for you.'Whatever town you enter and they do not receive you,go out into the streets and say,'The dust of your town that clings to our feet,even that we shake off against you.'Yet know this: the kingdom of God is at hand.I tell you,it will be more tolerable for Sodom on that day than for that town."The seventy-two returned rejoicing, and said,"Lord, even the demons are subject to us because of your name."Jesus said, "I have observed Satan fall like lightning from the sky.Behold, I have given you the power to 'tread upon serpents' and scorpionsand upon the full force of the enemy and nothing will harm you. Nevertheless, do not rejoice because the spirits are subject to you,but rejoice because your names are written in heaven."

Luke 10:1-12, 17-20 At that time the Lord appointed seventy-two otherswhom he sent ahead of him in pairsto every town and place he intended to visit.He said to them,"The harvest is abundant but the laborers are few;so ask the master of the harvestto send out laborers for his harvest.Go on your way;behold, I am sending you like lambs among wolves.Carry no money bag, no sack, no sandals;and greet no one along the way.Into whatever house you enter, first say,'Peace to this household.'If a peaceful person lives there,your peace will rest on him;but if not, it will return to you.Stay in the same house and eat and drink what is offered to you,for the laborer deserves his payment.Do not move about from one house to another.Whatever town you enter and they welcome you,eat what is set before you,cure the sick in it and say to them,'The kingdom of God is at hand for you.'Whatever town you enter and they do not receive you,go out into the streets and say,'The dust of your town that clings to our feet,even that we shake off against you.'Yet know this: the kingdom of God is at hand.I tell you,it will be more tolerable for Sodom on that day than for that town."The seventy-two returned rejoicing, and said,"Lord, even the demons are subject to us because of your name."Jesus said, "I have observed Satan fall like lightning from the sky.Behold, I have given you the power to 'tread upon serpents' and scorpionsand upon the full force of the enemy and nothing will harm you. Nevertheless, do not rejoice because the spirits are subject to you,but rejoice because your names are written in heaven."

Luke 10:1-12, 17-20 At that time the Lord appointed seventy-two otherswhom he sent ahead of him in pairsto every town and place he intended to visit.He said to them,"The harvest is abundant but the laborers are few;so ask the master of the harvestto send out laborers for his harvest.Go on your way;behold, I am sending you like lambs among wolves.Carry no money bag, no sack, no sandals;and greet no one along the way.Into whatever house you enter, first say,'Peace to this household.'If a peaceful person lives there,your peace will rest on him;but if not, it will return to you.Stay in the same house and eat and drink what is offered to you,for the laborer deserves his payment.Do not move about from one house to another.Whatever town you enter and they welcome you,eat what is set before you,cure the sick in it and say to them,'The kingdom of God is at hand for you.'Whatever town you enter and they do not receive you,go out into the streets and say,'The dust of your town that clings to our feet,even that we shake off against you.'Yet know this: the kingdom of God is at hand.I tell you,it will be more tolerable for Sodom on that day than for that town."The seventy-two returned rejoicing, and said,"Lord, even the demons are subject to us because of your name."Jesus said, "I have observed Satan fall like lightning from the sky.Behold, I have given you the power to 'tread upon serpents' and scorpionsand upon the full force of the enemy and nothing will harm you. Nevertheless, do not rejoice because the spirits are subject to you,but rejoice because your names are written in heaven."

In Tehillim 1:1, the verse begins with "ashrei ha'ish," happy is the man. According to Rabbi Yonantan, the man is Avraham, who did not associate himself with the dor haflaga, the people of Sodom and the Philistines. A similar verse in Tehillim 112:1 employs the same phrase "ashrei ish" who fears God. Why is the masculine form used and not the feminine? Two explanations are offered: happy is the person who repents when still young or happy is the person who can control one's evil inclination like a man, i.e., a warrior overcoming his enemies. The continuation of the verse is, "He delights in God's mitzvot." This is explained as one who does mitzvot for the sake of doing a mitzva and not for receiving a reward. In Tehillim 1:1-2, the verse says that instead of being with evildoers, happy is the person who desires the Torah of God. Rebbi derives from this verse that a person can only learn Torah from the parts of the Torah that one desires to study. Rava extrapolates the verse in the same way and derives other concepts about stages of learning Torah and best practices of learning Torah from these verses and others. What are the rewards received for learning Torah? The Mishna forbids building the area in the bathhouse that was built for an idol. Rabbi Elazar in the name of Rabbi Yochanan explains that if one got paid, the money is permitted for use. How is this explained? The Mishna does not permit making jewelry for idol worship, but Rabbi Eliezer rules that one could get paid for doing that. Since one cannot sell land to gentiles in Israel, one can also not sell items that are attached to the ground, unless they are already detached. Rabbi Yehuda permits them if they are being sold to be detached after the sale.      

In today's devotional, Dr. Michael A. Youssef considers the basis for Abraham's intercession for Sodom and Gomorrah.If you would like more insight into today's devotional topic, listen to Dr. Youssef's sermon They Were Just like Us, Part 5: LISTEN NOWAVAILABLE NOW FOR YOUR GIFT OF ANY AMOUNTSome in the church today are seeking to modify Christianity to make it “relevant” to our culture. But does Christianity really need saving?In his bestselling book Saving Christianity?, Dr. Michael A. Youssef reveals the dangers of this trend with real-life examples to equip you to spot false teaching, deepen your understanding of Scripture, confidently defend the faith, and lovingly share it with others. Discover how to hold fast to the faith with Saving Christianity?while also supporting the strategic ministries of Leading The Way to passionately proclaim the uncompromising Truth. Request your copy today for your gift of any amount!*Offer valid in US, UK, and Canada through August 3, 2025

As we continue our Promises Made, Promises Kept series, Pastor Ken reminds us of God's unwavering justice and mercy as seen in Abraham's plea for Sodom. Drawing from Genesis, Pastor Ken shows how God listens to his people and responds with both righteousness and compassion. Pastor Ken challenges us to stand before God with bold prayers and a heart for others, trusting that his promises remain true. We are encouraged to live out a faith that intercedes and believes in God's ultimate goodness.

Avoiding wickedness and wrong-doing: Interpreting the first psalm in the Book of Psalms (Tehilim) - happy is one who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked - as in the generation of the Tower of Babel, or the people of Sodom. Plus, one should learn Torah according to what is a delight -- only that which one's heart desires. Also, if one builds beyond the part that a Jew should build (unto a host section for idolatry), the Jew should still receive his wages -- it's only an accessory to idolatry, not straight up benefit from idol worship. Indeed, under the right terms, the Jew could make the idol itself!

I greet you in Jesus' precious name! It is Monday morning, the 7th of July, 2025, and this is your friend, Angus Buchan, with a thought for today. We go to the Book of Exodus 6:7. The Lord says: “I will take you as My people, and I will be your God. Then you shall know that I am the Lord your God who brings you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians.” Then we go to that very well-known scripture that I love so much found in Romans 10:13. The Lord says: For “whoever (that means you sir, that means you madam)…whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.”We serve such a merciful God, such a forgiving God, it makes me weep sometimes. I read very recently the account where Abraham said to the Lord, “Lord, if there were 50 righteous men in Sodom and Gomorrah, would You save the city?” The Lord said He would and he said, “What if there were 30? What if there were 20? What about if there were 10 righteous men in that city, would You save the city for the sake of those 10?” And He said He would. I don't know who I am talking to this morning but I feel I am talking to someone who is very burdened and heavy-laden who feels not worthy to call upon the Lord because you have disappointed God, you have broken some commandment, you know it, you did it willingly and now you've realised what you have done. I want to say to you, own up, say sorry, truly repent, and God will forgive you. I don't care who you are, and then there might be some Pharisees, some self-righteous, “No, no, you can't do that.” Yes, you can. The Lord said, in John 3:16: “For God so loved the world…” Who is the world? It's you, it's me, it's the one who dropped the ball, it's the one who told that lie, it's the one who has taken something that doesn't belong to you. Take it back, say sorry, repent and get on with your life. The Lord says that He would save a whole city for the sake of 10 righteous men. There is not one person listening to this programme today who is righteous in their own strength, no, not one, but it is by grace. What is grace? Undeserved, loving kindness, unmerited favour, that is what grace means. We don't deserve it but because He loves us and He says, “I am your God and I will help you, and I will take you out of your predicament.” But we must do it God's way and then He will be free to set us alive, to give us new hope and a new beginning.Jesus bless you richly! Remember, there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. Just say sorry, ask God to help you, and He will see you through. Jesus bless you and goodbye.

In Tehillim 1:1, the verse begins with "ashrei ha'ish," happy is the man. According to Rabbi Yonantan, the man is Avraham, who did not associate himself with the dor haflaga, the people of Sodom and the Philistines. A similar verse in Tehillim 112:1 employs the same phrase "ashrei ish" who fears God. Why is the masculine form used and not the feminine? Two explanations are offered: happy is the person who repents when still young or happy is the person who can control one's evil inclination like a man, i.e., a warrior overcoming his enemies. The continuation of the verse is, "He delights in God's mitzvot." This is explained as one who does mitzvot for the sake of doing a mitzva and not for receiving a reward. In Tehillim 1:1-2, the verse says that instead of being with evildoers, happy is the person who desires the Torah of God. Rebbi derives from this verse that a person can only learn Torah from the parts of the Torah that one desires to study. Rava extrapolates the verse in the same way and derives other concepts about stages of learning Torah and best practices of learning Torah from these verses and others. What are the rewards received for learning Torah? The Mishna forbids building the area in the bathhouse that was built for an idol. Rabbi Elazar in the name of Rabbi Yochanan explains that if one got paid, the money is permitted for use. How is this explained? The Mishna does not permit making jewelry for idol worship, but Rabbi Eliezer rules that one could get paid for doing that. Since one cannot sell land to gentiles in Israel, one can also not sell items that are attached to the ground, unless they are already detached. Rabbi Yehuda permits them if they are being sold to be detached after the sale.      

Reading 1Isaiah 66:10-14cThus says the LORD: Rejoice with Jerusalem and be glad because of her, all you who love her; exult, exult with her, all you who were mourning over her! Oh, that you may suck fully of the milk of her comfort, that you may nurse with delight at her abundant breasts! For thus says the LORD: Lo, I will spread prosperity over Jerusalem like a river, and the wealth of the nations like an overflowing torrent. As nurslings, you shall be carried in her arms, and fondled in her lap; as a mother comforts her child, so will I comfort you; in Jerusalem you shall find your comfort. When you see this, your heart shall rejoice and your bodies flourish like the grass; the LORD's power shall be known to his servants.Reading 2Galatians 6:14-18Brothers and sisters:May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ,through which the world has been crucified to me,and I to the world.For neither does circumcision mean anything, nor does uncircumcision,but only a new creation.Peace and mercy be to all who follow this ruleand to the Israel of God.From now on, let no one make troubles for me;for I bear the marks of Jesus on my body.The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit,brothers and sisters. Amen.GospelLuke 10:1-12, 17-20 At that time the Lord appointed seventy-two otherswhom he sent ahead of him in pairsto every town and place he intended to visit.He said to them,"The harvest is abundant but the laborers are few;so ask the master of the harvestto send out laborers for his harvest.Go on your way;behold, I am sending you like lambs among wolves.Carry no money bag, no sack, no sandals;and greet no one along the way.Into whatever house you enter, first say,'Peace to this household.'If a peaceful person lives there,your peace will rest on him;but if not, it will return to you.Stay in the same house and eat and drink what is offered to you,for the laborer deserves his payment.Do not move about from one house to another.Whatever town you enter and they welcome you,eat what is set before you,cure the sick in it and say to them,'The kingdom of God is at hand for you.'Whatever town you enter and they do not receive you,go out into the streets and say,'The dust of your town that clings to our feet,even that we shake off against you.'Yet know this: the kingdom of God is at hand.I tell you,it will be more tolerable for Sodom on that day than for that town."The seventy-two returned rejoicing, and said,"Lord, even the demons are subject to us because of your name."Jesus said, "I have observed Satan fall like lightning from the sky.Behold, I have given you the power to 'tread upon serpents' and  scorpionsand upon the full force of the enemy and nothing will harm you.  Nevertheless, do not rejoice because the spirits are subject to you,but rejoice because your names are written in heaven."

HAPPY SUNDAY FRIENDS! I'm SO expectant for what God's about to do through this convo today!

Brockport First Baptist sermon audio from Sunday, July 6, 2025: “The Sin of Sodom,” by Rev. Dr. Dan Brockway. Scripture reading: Genesis 19:1-17,24-26.Our mission is to embody God's love outside the walls of the church, in Brockport and beyond. SUPPORT OUR MINISTRIES: www.brockportfirstbaptist.org/giveLEARN MORE ABOUT OUR CHURCH: www.brockportfirstbaptist.org

07-06-25 | Abraham: Pleading for Sodom by Plainfield Christian Church

Fourth Sunday after Pentecost Bible Readings Ezekiel 2:9-3:11, 1 Peter 5:1-4, Luke 10:1-12,16-20 Worship Folder Pastor Paul A. Tullberg Sermon text: Luke 10:1–12,16–20 Jesus Appoints Seventy-Two 10 After this, the Lord appointed seventy-two others and sent them out two by two ahead of him to every town and place where he was about to go. 2 He told them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. So ask the Lord of the harvest to send out workers into his harvest field. 3 Go your way. Look, I am sending you out as lambs among wolves. 4 Do not carry a money bag or traveler's bag or sandals. Do not greet anyone along the way. 5 Whenever you enter a house, first say, ‘Peace be to this house.' 6 And if a peaceful person is there, your peace will rest on him, but if not, it will return to you. 7 Remain in that same house, eating and drinking what they give you, because the worker is worthy of his pay. Do not keep moving from house to house. 8 Whenever you enter a town and they welcome you, eat what is set before you. 9 Heal the sick who are in the town and tell them, ‘The kingdom of God has come near you.' 10 “But whenever you enter a town and they do not welcome you, go out into its streets and say, 11 ‘Even the dust from your town that clings to our feet, we wipe off against you. Nevertheless know this: The kingdom of God has come near.' 12 I tell you, it will be more bearable for Sodom on that day than for that town. 16 Whoever listens to you listens to me. Whoever rejects you rejects me. And whoever rejects me rejects the one who sent me.” 17 The seventy-two returned with joy, saying, “Lord, even the demons submit to us in your name!” 18 He told them, “I was watching Satan fall like lightning from heaven. 19 Look, I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and over all the power of the enemy. And nothing will ever harm you. 20 Nevertheless, do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names have been written in heaven.” The Holy Bible, Evangelical Heritage Version®, EHV®, © 2019 Wartburg Project, Inc. All rights reserved. Take a Moment to recall something from today's message. Ask Jesus to create for you opportunities to use your words, activities and thoughts to glorify Him this week. We value your friendship and the opportunity to share the love of Jesus together with you!

In today's devotional, Dr. Michael A. Youssef explores how Abraham approached God to intercede for any righteous people left in Sodom and Gomorrah.If you would like more insight into today's devotional topic, listen to Dr. Youssef's sermon They Were Just like Us, Part 5: LISTEN NOWAVAILABLE NOW FOR YOUR GIFT OF ANY AMOUNTSome in the church today are seeking to modify Christianity to make it “relevant” to our culture. But does Christianity really need saving?In his bestselling book Saving Christianity?, Dr. Michael A. Youssef reveals the dangers of this trend with real-life examples to equip you to spot false teaching, deepen your understanding of Scripture, confidently defend the faith, and lovingly share it with others. Discover how to hold fast to the faith with Saving Christianity?while also supporting the strategic ministries of Leading The Way to passionately proclaim the uncompromising Truth. Request your copy today for your gift of any amount!*Offer valid in US, UK, and Canada through August 3, 2025.

Choice of Rebekah; Virgin?; Pardons; Corruption; Civil government; "Ur"; Nimrod and Terah; Melchizedek - righteous king of peace; Tithing; Rebekah's entourage; Organizing the people; Providers; Lot's place in the gates of Sodom; Judging enemies; Learning to be Israel; Separation; "City"; Unrighteous sacrifice; Meekness of sheep; Willing sacrifices; Understanding Abraham, Isaac and Jacob - Israel; Entrusting power to the people; Covering beauty; Walking in faith; Possession; Becoming merchandise; Welfare snares; Tribute; Protection; Power corrupts; Exercising authority; Freewill contributions; "Tithes"; Love = Charity; Genesis 25 - Abraham's death; Katurah; "Leummim" ; Seeking Holy Spirit; Loving light; Incense?; Driving out evil; Pilate's incense; Tiberius; Living in bondage; Are you Israel?; Abraham's inheritance; "live" = chet-yod; Isaac's half-brothers; Temptation; Abraham's blessing; Importance of wives; Pure Religion; Nahor; Doers of His word; Well Lahairoi - revelation of Holy Spirit; Helping with unbelief; Thinking differently than the world; Effectual prayer; God's blessing to Isaac; Gen 17:20; "Before Egypt"; Rulers; Deceitful meats; The Christian way; Repentance; Covetous practices; Modern doctrines; Barren Rebekah; Twins!; Man/Woman differences; Ministry?; Gen 25:23; Lamad-aleph-mem-yod-mem = people(s); Esau and Jacob; Esau cunning "hunter" (provider); Considering the society; Allowing choice; Letting children grow; Roman and Pharisaical tribute; Forced offerings; vs Charity; "Manners" of people; Cain and Abel; Esau lacking provisions; Selling your birthright; Dependencies of Esau and Jacob; Pure Religion; Which manner of people are you?; Golden calf?; Temple of Ephesus?; Seeing the light of truth; Come to serve.