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Two esteemed friends (vv. 12–14) epaphras, the man with a single passion that they might be mature. It is generally accepted that Epaphras was the pastor of the church at Colosse and its founder; Paul identifies him as ‘one of you' (cf. 1:7). He also planted the churches in Laodicea and Hierapolis and was now in Rome visiting Paul in prison to take advice about the situation in the church in Colosse. His heart was warm towards his friends back in Colosse and his prayers were fervent and specific on their behalf. He was praying that they might ‘stand perfect and complete in all the will of God' (v. 12). He was a man of prayer. How he prayed. The phrase ‘labouring fervently' speaks of him wrestling and striving in prayer. The same Greek is used in 1:29 of a man toiling at work until he is thoroughly weary, and in 1 Corinthians 9:25 of an athlete determined to win the race. We get the English word ‘agonizing' from it. In 1 Timothy 6:12 it describes the soldier fighting for his life on the battlefield. True intercessory prayer demands self-sacrifice, dedication and determination. What he prayed. ‘That you may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God' (v. 12). There was need for them to grow up spiritually and be mature in the things of Christ, remaining firm in the truth. Paul preaches to achieve it (1:28) and Epaphras prays for it to be so. The word ‘perfect' (teleioi) means ‘to finish the process'. There is, in New Testament religion, such a thing as progressive sanctification: an increase in holiness and the possibility of growing into a deeper love for God, Christ and the brethren (see Phil. 3:12–15). The Colossians are complete positionally (2:10) but here the will of God is in view so that they will be able to resist the ‘spoilers” errors (cf. 1:9). Epaphras prays that they will persevere in the faith, in accordance with the will of God, and that their commitment to the truth in Christ Jesus their Lord will continue. luke, the man with a special talent who is the author of the third Gospel and the book of Acts. He was a companion of Paul during his missionary journeys and accompanied him to Jerusalem and during his dangerous journey to Rome (Acts 16:10–17; 20:6–16, 21, 27–28; 27:1–8—note the ‘we' references). Luke, a Gentile Christian, probably hailed from Antioch. He was a medical doctor and as such was a very valuable travelling companion to Paul and his team. Luke is called the ‘beloved physician' and when we remember what Paul said in 2 Corinthians about his health problems, which he called ‘a thorn in the flesh' (2 Cor. 12:7), there can be no doubt that Luke was of great help to him personally. Besides this, Luke has proved to be a historian of highest quality. His account of the historical Jesus is on a par with the other Gospel writers, and his history of the beginnings of Christianity in the book of Acts is unsurpassed. What he has written has proved, over two millennia, to be very reliable indeed. One endangered soul (v. 14b) demas, the man with a sad future is something of an enigma. As part of Paul's missionary team he proved to be a valuable helper, but we remember him most because of what Paul wrote of him in 2 Timothy. He is listed there among many of the same companions found in Colossians 4, but here Timothy is told ‘Demas has forsaken me, having loved this present world' (2 Tim. 4:10). This was not only a physical but also a spiritual separation. He had succumbed to worldliness. This reminds us of the Parable of the Sower and the consequences of the seed not falling on ‘good ground' (Luke 8:4–15). Sadly, in the New Testament there is no record of his restoration. This is a reminder that Christians need to make their calling and election sure (2 Peter 1:10). Those who received greetings (vv. 15–17) Nymphas or possibly Nympha a woman (v. 15) Having brought greetings from his companions, Paul now requests that his words be passed on: ‘Greet the brethren who are in Laodicea and Nymphas.' The church in Laodicea, or part of it, met in the house of Nymphas. We have no other information about him but can assume that he willingly supported the growing church in his own town and offered it hospitality. This reminds us that the early church met in private homes (Acts 12:12; 16:40), with the church in Colosse meeting in the house of Philemon (Philem. 2). The Epistle to the Colossians is also sent to the church that meets at Laodicea, so that the message could be shared as an act of Christian friendship and evangelism (v. 16). Is this an example of consecutive preaching in the early church? At the very least we see the gathered church hearing and meditating on the Word of God (see Acts 20:7). The Laodiceans (vv. 15–16) What is ‘the epistle from Laodicea'? Is it: A letter written from Laodicea? John Calvin supported this view, which was first mooted in the fourth or fifth century A.D. A letter written by Paul from Laodicea and now lost? The letter written and sent by Paul to Philemon? If Philemon lived in Colosse, this would be unlikely. The Epistle of Paul to the Ephesians? This theory has many advocates but lacks conclusive proof. A letter written by Paul to Laodicea written at the same time as this epistle but now lost? If we remember that Tychicus would need to travel through Laodicea to go to Colosse it would seem strange that there was no letter from Paul. Why leave Laodicea out? Not all of Paul's letters have been preserved (see, for example, 1 Cor. 5:9). There is an apocryphal Epistle to the Laodiceans which was made between A.D. 300 and 400 to fill in the gap in the manuscripts, but by the eighth century it was ‘rejected by all' (Jerome). There is the possibility that there was no letter at all! If there was, why the greetings in v. 15? None of the above throws any doubt on the doctrine of the inerrancy of Scripture. Archippus (v. 17) Archippus was a member of the church in Colosse. Some think he was the son of Philemon and Apphia. Paul speaks to him directly, as he must faithfully discharge the ministry he has received ‘in the Lord'. Archippus was given: a personal message: ‘take heed'. At the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805, Lord Nelson is said to have told his sailors and marines that ‘England expects every man to do his duty'; this is no less true of the Lord of the churches. The Lord Jesus Christ expects all believers to do their duty by discharging the ministry given to them, whether in preaching, teaching, leading or serving in the local church. All the believers' talents are to be fully utilized in the service of Christ (Matt. 25:14–30). This was the same exhortation which Paul gave to Timothy (1 Tim. 4:16). a public message: ‘Take heed to the ministry you have received in the Lord'. This exhortation was given in support of Archippus and the ministry he was called by God to discharge. What was this ministry? Perhaps he was the elder in charge while Epaphras was gone (as some suggest), or one of the body of elders and deacons? Whatever it was, he could not run from his responsibility now that Paul had so openly spoken of it! The Lord expects us to do his will when vows have been made. a pointed message: ‘fulfil it'. Archippus obviously needed this exhortation, but why? Had he lost heart (2 Cor. 4:1, 16)? Had he lost his love for the brethren? Had he found the office to which he was called too demanding, and did he now want to relinquish it? We just do not know. But we can be sure that the Holy Spirit meant him to hear this. God wanted him to complete the work he had received from Christ his Lord. Final thoughts (v. 18) Remember Paul's chains Paul's custom was to dictate his letters (Rom. 16:22; Gal. 6:11) and then write a few words of greeting with his own hand at the end to give authentication (2 Thes. 3:17; 1 Cor. 16:21). Because the letter is written by Paul, it is authoritative for faith and practice in the churches. He reminds the Colossians of his ‘chains'. This is a very human touch that indicates his need for prayer support. Those in the service of Jesus Christ are not immune to hardship or injustice in a fallen world. Suffering is ordained by God for believers (Job 2; Gen. 39:6–21; 2 Tim. 3:12), our Saviour being the chief example of this (Isa. 53:7–8). Paul knows that prayer will help (2 Cor. 1:11). Daily grace ‘Grace be with you.' Paul began with grace (1:2) and ends with it. We start the Christian life because of God's grace freely given (Eph. 2:8) and we require it until the end of the journey. Paul speaks to all the Colossian believers (the pronoun ‘you' is plural). They need grace to keep them from falling under the control of the ‘spoilers', and to keep them strong in the Lord and the power of his might. Grace is necessary to do God's will, fulfil his work and live holy lives. Christ promises grace right to the end (Matt. 28:20; 2 Cor. 12:9). ‘Amen' is the Greek equivalent of the Hebrew word meaning ‘surely', from the root meaning ‘to be firm'. It is used to express agreement (Deut. 27:15; 1 Kings 1:36) and is the expression of agreement used by the churches (1 Cor. 14:16; Rev. 5:14). It means ‘So let it be'. It is also translated as ‘verily' in the AV, ‘most assuredly' in the NKJV and ‘I tell you the truth' in the NIV (cf. John 3:16).[1] Mark 8:36 "For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? John 14:6 Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me. Have you trusted Him as your Savior? He can Save you if You ask Him based on His death, burial, and resurrection for your sins. Believe in Him for forgiveness of your sins today. “And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” -John 8:32 Our mission is to spread the gospel and to go to the least of these with the life-changing message of Jesus Christ; We reach out to those the World has forgotten. hisloveministries.podbean.com #HLMSocial hisloveministries.net https://www.instagram.com/hisloveministries1/?hl=en His Love Ministries on Itunes Don't go for all the gusto you can get, go for all the God (Jesus Christ) you can get. The gusto will get you, Jesus can save you. https://www.facebook.com/His-Love-Ministries-246606668725869/?tn-str=k*F The world is trying to solve earthly problems that can only be solved with heavenly solutions
BE PRAYERFUL (VV. 2–4) PRAYER AND THE BELIEVER (VV. 2) NEW MANS MOUTH IS SHOWN BY PRAYER PROCLAMATION, PERFORMANCE –RIGHT LIVING, PERFECTION –SEASONED WITH SALT Does God really answer prayer? If so, God's Children need to ‘continue [persevere] earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving'. Prayer prevails with God because we are his adopted Children (Gal. 4:6). These words echo the words of our Saviour who taught that ‘men always ought to pray and not lose heart' (Luke 18:1). Time must be set aside for prayer. Jesus told the parables of the friend at midnight (Luke 11:5–8) and the unjust judge (Luke 18:1–8) to encourage us to intercede until the answers come. PRAYER IS A BATTLE: ‘continue earnestly in prayer'. Mental, emotional and physical effort is involved in prayer, and one can feel exhausted by it all. This is because it has to do with the whole person. Thus when we pray the mind is engaged (1 Cor. 14:15), the will is involved (Acts 12:5) and the heart is burdened (James 5:16). This is illustrated both by our Saviour in Gethsemane, where he was ‘exceedingly sorrowful, even to death' (Matt. 26:38– 44), and by Jacob, when he wrestled in prayer at Peniel and would not let Jehovah go until he was blessed by him (Gen. 32:24–31). PRAYER IS A MINISTRY: ‘being vigilant in it'. Prayer is vital if the ‘spoilers' are not to corrupt the minds and hearts of the believing members. Satan wants to irritate and distract with disputes, problems, etc., but it is a saint's duty to bring all these issues to God in prayer. When this is done, Satan will fail and the ‘spoilers' will not succeed (James 4:8). Prayer cannot be made if you are asleep, as it is wakeful fellowship and communion with the Father through the Son by the help of the Holy Spirit (Matt. 26:40–41a). PRAYER BRINGS VICTORY: ‘with thanksgiving'. Prayer brings victory when it is full of thanksgiving. Paul adds the element of thanksgiving deliberately, because praise of this sort ‘imparts spiritual freshness to prayer' (Carson). Let every Christian be grateful for grace, happy about holiness and delighted with so great a salvation (1 Thess. 5:18). The Fatherhood of God is evident here, and the spiritual relationship which believers have with Christ is emphasized. The best types of prayers are those ‘according to his will' (1 John 5:14–15). Jesus taught us in the Lord's Prayer to say ‘Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven' (Matt. 6:10). Faith tells us that God's good pleasure is best for us because his wisdom is to be preferred to ours. We need therefore to submit to his will with meekness, while putting away self-will and pride. Paul says we need Strong prayer, consistent, watchful, and thankful Prayer and intercession (vv. 3–4) Paul, as a missionary pastor and preacher, felt the need for prayers of intercession on behalf of himself and the team he worked with. What does he request? THAT HE WILL PREACH CHRIST FREELY (V. 3A): Prayers are requested so that all obstacles hindering the work are removed and a door opened which will give Paul opportunity for the preaching and teaching of the gospel (Rev. 3:8). This, however, does not guarantee that Paul will not have opposition or trouble as he does the will of Christ (1 Cor. 16:9). Pastors and all engaged in evangelism and church planting need prayer support. This is an act of fellowship in the gospel, and Paul requested this fellowship on several occasions (2 Cor. 1:11; 1 Thes. 5:25; 2 Thes. 3:1–2). THAT HE WILL PREACH CHRIST TRULY (V. 3B): Who and what Jesus Christ is must be faithfully and consistently made known when Paul and his team preach the gospel, for it reveals the incarnate Christ as the Son of God and Saviour of the world (Eph 6:19–20). Jesus Christ is co-equal and co-eternal with the Father and the Holy Spirit and this is the ‘mystery' Paul preaches (1:26–27; 2:2; Eph. 3:3–4, 9). There is no other Saviour (John 14:6). THAT HE WILL PREACH CHRIST CLEARLY (V. 4): He requests that he and his team will be able to speak clearly and boldly to sinners about the glories and love of Christ. He wishes to make the gospel ‘manifest', ‘to make clear by uncovering'. He wants to speak plainly and not incomprehensibly, in order that others can share in the joy of eternal life (Rom. 15:13; 1 John 1:4). He wants to be able to discern when to speak and how much to say, and how to share the message so that it is not misunderstood. Be wise (vv. 5–6) ‘Walk in wisdom towards those who are outside, redeeming the time' (v. 5). Paul uses this term ‘outside' in other epistles to distinguish between the members and non-members of the local churches (1 Cor. 5:12–13; 1 Thess. 4:12). Our actions towards non-Christians must be controlled, with God's grace shining through our words and works. Respect must be shown for all those who are made in the image of God. This exhortation is to ‘walk' and ‘talk' wisely, and emphasizes the correct use of available time. We get wisdom by worship, prayer, studying and instruction from Godly teachers Time management (v. 5b) Christians are to make the most of all the opportunities that God gives to them. Thus Paul calls upon them to ‘redeem the time'. Although this is, as Thayer says, ‘an obscure phrase', it implies that believers should ‘make time your own property' (NIV) by being diligent in the use of it. Christ is drawing the world and its powers to his judgement seat at his Second Coming (Rom. 8:19), when there will be no more time to evangelize or preach; the days of mercy will then be over and the longed-for ‘not yet' will become a reality. Paul uses the same phrase, ‘redeeming the time', in Ephesians, but adds, ‘because the days are evil' (Eph. 5:15–16). Thus everything is to be done for the glory of God and in the light of eternity, remembering that we live in a fallen universe. Don't put off until tomorrow what should be done today, because procrastination is the thief of time. ‘Redeeming the time' is about making the best use of time, making time your own property, but this will prove impossible unless one is ‘filled with the Spirit' (Eph. 5:18). There is need for the household of God to: REDEEM THE TIME LOST. We cannot turn the clock back—yesterday is lost forever— but today and tomorrow are ours! God said to the prophet Joel, ‘I will restore … the years that the swarming locust has eaten' (Joel 2:25). Time has been lost by procrastination, pleasure, laziness, disobedience, etc.; so let us put these aside and make the most of what time is left. REDEEM THE TIME LEFT. Jesus said, ‘The night is coming when no one can work' (John 9:4). Thus we are reminded that our days are numbered and our time is short. How long do we have left here on earth? How long will the door be opened still? Do we understand what the will of the Lord is (Eph. 5:17)? REDEEM THE TIME LOANED. We can miss opportunities; we can fail to act when opportunity comes; we can be too late and the door can shut. Yet we depend on heaven for the time that we are allowed. Time is loaned to us and, as stewards of Christ, we must use it wisely and grasp it fully with zeal, while we have strength and opportunity. Word management (v. 6) When speaking, care must be taken to be gracious and wise: ‘Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt.' To speak well of Christ, local churches and pastors is the height of wisdom. People are more inclined to ‘read' believers' actions rather than the Bible. Wise words from believers will prevent outsiders slandering the local church, and will help to advance the kingdom of Christ. Christians are to let God's grace teach them how to handle others well. Paul's use of the word ‘always' alerts us to the need to show grace even when provoked (1:11; Eph. 4:29). Because of this, the believer's conversations and retorts need to be ‘seasoned with salt'. Paul is reminding them that the tongue is the most difficult member of the body to control (James 3:1–10). His illustration is apt, as Christian conversation should be both appetizing (tasty) and beneficial (nutritious), thus leaving the outsiders wanting more (1 Tim. 3:7). Put your own name in this verse: ‘Let …'s speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt.' Let this be so when you are with your friends and the tendency is to be unguarded and crude, or when confronted by your enemies and the tendency is to be rude and harsh. Rather let there be a gracious habit of speech, not abusive, not vindictive, but truthful and loving (Eph. 4:15a; 1 Peter 2:23; Prov. 10:32; Eccles. 10:12). Paul is encouraging us to speak the right word to the right person at the right time. Mark 8:36 "For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? John 14:6 Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me. Have you trusted Him as your Savior? He can Save you if You ask Him based on His death, burial, and resurrection for your sins. Believe in Him for forgiveness of your sins today. “And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” -John 8:32 Our mission is to spread the gospel and to go to the least of these with the life-changing message of Jesus Christ; We reach out to those the World has forgotten. hisloveministries.podbean.com #HLMSocial hisloveministries.net https://www.instagram.com/hisloveministries1/?hl=en His Love Ministries on Itunes Don't go for all the gusto you can get, go for all the God (Jesus Christ) you can get. The gusto will get you, Jesus can save you. https://www.facebook.com/His-Love-Ministries-246606668725869/?tn-str=k*F The world is trying to solve earthly problems that can only be solved with heavenly solutions
Deut 1:37-38, 2 Chron 35:1-2, 1 Sam 30:6, 2 Tim 4:2, Ps 64:5, 2 Cor 12:19, Eph 4:11-12, 16, 29, Heb 10:25, 1 Thes 5:11, Acts 11:23
Deut 1:37-38, 2 Chron 35:1-2, 1 Sam 30:6, 2 Tim 4:2, Ps 64:5, 2 Cor 12:19, Eph 4:11-12, 16, 29, Heb 10:25, 1 Thes 5:11, Acts 11:23
Deut 1:37-38, 2 Chron 35:1-2, 1 Sam 30:6, 2 Tim 4:2, Ps 64:5, 2 Cor 12:19, Eph 4:11-12, 16, 29, Heb 10:25, 1 Thes 5:11, Acts 11:23
In Week 4 of the Talking Jesus series, Pastor Torry encourages believers to recognize the power of their personal story as a tool for evangelism. Titled “Your Story, God's Glory,” the message aims to demystify evangelism by reminding us that you don't need a seminary degree or dramatic backstory to share Jesus—just a willingness to be honest about what He's done in your life. The message opens with a humorous story about a push mower that Pastor Torry inherited when living in Florida. Unbeknownst to him, it had a self-propel feature that he never used—making the task far harder than it needed to be. That illustration becomes a spiritual metaphor: evangelism feels difficult when we're trying to do it in our own strength. But God has already built in the power—we just need to engage it. The Blueprint for Evangelism Revelation 12:11 offers a simple but profound formula for kingdom advancement: “They overcame by the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony.” Jesus does the saving—that's the “blood of the Lamb.” But we have a role too—the “word of our testimony.” God's strategy has always involved partnership with people. We don't save, but we point. We reflect. We witness. And every believer has a story that can do just that. Why Your Testimony Matters Pastor Torry outlines five reasons why our personal stories carry spiritual weight: Testimonies Are Evidence (Ps 19:1, Rom 1:20) Creation bears the fingerprints of God, and so do changed lives. When grace rewrites your story, it leaves a mark—proof that God is real and good. Testimonies Are Hard to Argue With (John 9) Debates can spark defensiveness. But a changed life? That's hard to refute. Like the blind man in John 9, you don't have to explain everything. “I was blind, but now I see” is enough. Testimonies Build Bridges (1 Thes 2:8) Stories connect in a way arguments can't. They invite vulnerability and relationship. As Paul writes in 1 Thessalonians 2:8, we're called to share the gospel—and our lives. Testimonies Point to Jesus (Gal 2:20) Your story isn't about you—it's about Christ in you. The messier your past, the more glory God gets for what He's redeemed. Testimonies Offer Hope (Titus 3:3-5) People are always looking for meaning. Your story might be what helps them imagine a future touched by grace. How to Share Your Story Naturally Pastor Torry then shares four practical principles for weaving your testimony into everyday life: Look for Open Doors Conversations about stress, pain, or purpose are often invitations. Pay attention. Ask questions. Then gently walk through that door. Share Moments, Not Memoirs People don't need your full life story—they need a relatable moment. A short story about how God helped you through something similar goes a long way. Speak Like a Real Person Avoid the churchy voice. Talk about God the way you naturally would. People notice sincerity—and it stirs curiosity. Embrace the Awkward Faith conversations can feel clunky. That's okay. Call it out, laugh about it, and be real. People aren't looking for polish—they're looking for authenticity. Closing Encouragement Pastor Torry closes with a powerful story about his mother. Years ago, a Sunday school teacher shared a testimony about praying bold prayers for healing. Weeks later, Torry suffered a traumatic head injury. Inspired by that testimony, his mother prayed—boldly and faithfully. And God answered. The takeaway? That Sunday school teacher had no idea her story would become the catalyst for someone else's miracle. You never know how far your story will go or when it might echo into someone else's future. You don't have to save anyone—Jesus does that. But you are a witness. You are a hope-bearer. And your story may be the spark that lights faith in someone else. Tell it. Because your story gives God glory.
All our work to MAGA is like raking dry pine needles up in a forest set on fire. We aren't even talkning about national repentance or returning to Jesus Christ as a Nation. Theocracy is non-optional -- we are under Satan's theocracy run by his children now. The Jews had the Word of God and then overlaid it with their oral traditions; this is exactly what the modern Christian Church has done with the Words of Jesus Christ and His Apostles. We don't really like the Jesus of John 8:44, Rev 3:9, Rev 3:9 or 1 Thes 2:14-16 or even Matthew 5:17-19. We have come up with a new religion, just like the Jews did. Instead of talking about how to role pack the LGBTQ agenda in grade schools, we just be debating the extent to which the Sabbath will be enforced, or whether to give localities the leeway to have a Saturday Sabbath instead of a Sunday Sabbath (I'm a Sunday guy). Fritz Berggren, PhD www.bloodandfaith.com
Love: a new goal Col 3:14 But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection. 3:14 “put on love which is the perfect bond of unity” Love, which issues in unity, is the distinctive mark of the Christian (cf. Eph. 4:2–3; 1 Cor, 13; Gal. 5:22). Paul leaves the greatest and highest grace to the last: ‘But above all these things put on love'. Christian love is above all these other important and beautiful graces because it is self-sacrificing, self-giving, and the fulfilment of both the law and the gospel. It is a new commandment given to us by our Savior (John 13:34–35). The local church needs lashings of love for unity to be maintained. Put on … love (Col. 3:14). This is the most important of the Christian virtues, and it acts like a “girdle” that ties all the other virtues together. All of the spiritual qualities Paul has named are aspects of true Christian love, as a reading of 1 Corinthians 13 will reveal. Love is the first of the fruit of the Spirit and the other virtues follow—joy (Col. 3:16), peace (Col. 3:15), long-suffering, gentleness, kindness, and meekness (Col. 3:12). When love rules in our lives, it unites all these spiritual virtues so that there is beauty and harmony, indicating spiritual maturity. This harmony and maturity keep the life balanced and growing. The gnostic system could never do this.[1] Once again, Paul gives the Colossians the responsibility for making changes to their lives. The new clothes are beautiful gifts from God, but putting them on is the work of every individual Christian. The most important item of all is love, which Paul imagines as either an overgarment or a belt. Love unites all the other qualities, and makes the outfit perfect.[1] THE SUPREMACY OF LOVE: ‘above all these things put on love'. Philosophy was the ‘false teachers” trump card, however, ‘the love of God poured out in our hearts' (Rom. 5:5) is the ultimate thing. It is superior to all other graces (1 Cor. 13; 1 Thes. 3:12). THE STRENGTH OF LOVE: ‘which is the bond of perfection'. Love is like cement or belt that binds all the holy graces together in perfect harmony. Love completes and to keep our illustration of holy apparel, it completes the outfit. If there is no love then the other graces are only duty, cold morality or at best good manners. But love makes them all acceptable to God (even when they are imperfect). Col 3:15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful. In this verse Paul turned from character to conduct. How can a Christian know when he is doing God's will? One answer is: the peace of Christ in the heart and in the church. When the believer loses his inner peace, he knows that he has in some way disobeyed God. 3:15 “Let the peace of Christ” This term originally meant “binding together that which was broken” (cf. John 14:27; 16:33; Phil. 4:7). There are three ways the NT speaks of peace: (1) as the objective (doctrinal) aspect of our peace with God through Christ (cf. Col. 1:20); (2) as the subjective (experiential) aspect of our being right with God (cf. John 14:27; 16:33; Phil. 4:7); and (3) as God's uniting believing Jews and Gentiles into one new people (body) through Christ which is the mystery of God (cf. Eph. 2:14–17; Col. 3:15). The word translated “rule” is an athletic term. It means “to preside at the games and distribute the prizes.” Paul used a variation of this word in his Letter to the Colossians: “Let no one declare you unworthy of a prize” (literal translation, Col. 2:18). In the Greek games, there were judges (we would call them umpires) who rejected the contestants who were not qualified, and who disqualified those who broke the rules. The peace of God is the “Umpire” in our believing hearts and our churches. When we obey the will of God, we have His peace within; but when we step out of His will (even unintentionally), we lose His peace. THE SIGN OF LOVE: love teaches us how to talk to each other, how to cope with each other and how to forgive. It fills the heart with God's peace (v. 15). This is a subjective ‘peace' (it is felt within) which is intended to ‘rule', i.e. to ‘act like an umpire' who keeps us right and tells us when we are wrong. There must be no racial barriers, cultural barriers or social barriers when love is in control. Love is a telling sign of regeneration. We must beware, however, of a false peace in the heart. Jonah deliberately disobeyed God, yet he was able to go to sleep in the hold of a ship in a storm! “I had peace about it!” is not sufficient evidence that we are in the will of God. We must pray, surrender to His will, and seek His guidance in the Scriptures. The peace of heart alone is not always the peace of God. Something else is involved: if we have peace in our hearts, we will be at peace with others in the church. We are called to one body, and our relationship in that body must be one of harmony and peace. If we are out of the will of God, we are certain to bring discord and disharmony to the church. Jonah thought he was at peace, when actually his sins created a storm! When a Christian loses the peace of God, he begins to go off in directions that are out of the will of God. He turns to the things of the world and the flesh to compensate for his lack of peace within. He tries to escape, but he cannot escape himself! It is only when he confesses his sin, claims God's forgiveness, and does God's will that he experiences God's peace within. When there is peace in the heart, there will be praise on the lips: “And be ye thankful” (Col. 3:15). The Christian out of God's will is never found giving sincere praise to God. When David covered up his sins, he lost his peace and his praise (Pss. 32; 51). When he confessed his sins, then his song returned.[1] “rule” This is a PRESENT ACTIVE IMPERATIVE. In contrast to the false teachers acting as umpires in 2:18, Christ is our only judge, guide and arbiter. “you were called” God always takes the initiative in calling, electing, and wooing believers to Himself (cf. v. 12; John 6:44, 65; Eph. 1:4–5, 11). The term “calling” (kaleō) is used in several theological senses: (1) sinners are called by God through Christ to salvation; (2) sinners call on the name of the Lord to be saved (cf. Rom. 10:9–13); (3) believers are called to live Christ like lives (cf. Eph. 4:1); and (4) believers are called to ministry tasks (cf. 1 Cor. 12:4–7). “in one body” This speaks of unity amidst diversity (cf. 1:18, 24; Eph. 4:4–6)! Notice that the emphasis is not on personal election, but corporate election. Salvation is corporate, not just individual. In reaction to the abuses of power in the Roman Church, the Protestant Reformers emphasized the rights and responsibilities of the individual before God. However, their formulation became a biblical overstatement. The Bible does not teach the “priesthood of the believer,” but “the priesthood of believer s.” It is not a doctrine which emphasizes the freedom of the individual, but the body-life responsibility of each believer (cf. 1 Cor. 12:7 But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all:). “be thankful” This was a PRESENT ACTIVE IMPERATIVE, “keep on always being thankful.” Thankfulness is a sign of Christian maturity, of the Spirit-filled life (cf. v. 17; Eph. 5:20; 1 Thess. 5:18). It is not a resignation to determinism (Islam), but a biblical world-view that God is with us and for us even amidst the difficulties and circumstances of this fallen world! Mark 8:36 "For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? John 14:6 Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me. Have you trusted Him as your Savior? He can Save you if You ask Him based on His death, burial, and resurrection for your sins. Believe in Him for forgiveness of your sins today. “And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” -John 8:32 Our mission is to spread the gospel and to go to the least of these with the life-changing message of Jesus Christ; We reach out to those the World has forgotten. hisloveministries.podbean.com #HLMSocial hisloveministries.net https://www.instagram.com/hisloveministries1/?hl=en His Love Ministries on Itunes Don't go for all the gusto you can get, go for all the God (Jesus Christ) you can get. The gusto will get you, Jesus can save you. https://www.facebook.com/His-Love-Ministries-246606668725869/?tn-str=k*F The world is trying to solve earthly problems that can only be solved with heavenly solutions
Continuing with our series “Connected in Community”, today Pastor Kuulei talks about 3 truths about community and dispels the lies we tend to believe about being in community.Key Scriptures:Acts 2:2-4,42-47, Heb 10:23-25, Rom 12:3-5, Psa 92:12-13, 1 Pet 4:10, 1 Thes 5:11,14, 1 Cor 12:12-27
32 Remember Lot's wife. 33 Whoever seeks to save his life will loseit, and whoever loses his life will preserve it. Luke17:30-36 describes what will occur when Jesus Christ returns in judgment todefeat His enemies and establish His kingdom on earth (Rev. 19:11-20:6).Believers in every age of the church can take warning from these verses, butthey apply in a special way to Israel at the end of the age (see Matt.24:29-44). When Jesus comes for His church and takes it to heaven, it willhappen "in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye" (1 Cor.15:52). Nobody taking part in the rapture of the church need worry about beingon a housetop or in a field and wanting to get something out of the house!However, when the Lord returns to the earth, His coming will first be precededby a "sign" in heaven (Matt. 24:30-31), and some people might try tohurry home to rescue something. "Remember Lot's wife!" Theverb taken in Luke 17:34-36 does not mean "taken to heaven" but"taken away in judgment" (Matt. 24:36-41). The person"left" is a believer who enters into the kingdom. Noah and his familywere "left" to enjoy a new beginning, while the whole population ofthe earth was "taken" in the Flood. In spite of their sins, Lot andhis daughters were "left" while the people in Sodom and Gomorrah were"taken" when the fire and brimstone destroyed the cities. Thefact that it is night in Luke 17:34 but day in Luke 17:35-36 indicates that thewhole world will be involved in the return of Jesus Christ in glory. "Behold,He cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see Him" (Rev. 1:7). Threetimes the disciples had heard Jesus talk about people being "taken"and "left," so they asked Him a most logical question: "Where,Lord?" Our Lord's reply has the sound of a familiar proverb: "Justas the eagles [and vultures, Matt. 24:28] gather at a corpse, so the lost willbe gathered together for judgment." The description of the last battlein Revelation 19:17-21 certainly parallels the image of carrion-eating birdsgorging themselves on flesh. Inother words, when the Lord Jesus returns to judge His enemies, there will be aseparation of the saved and the lost. Whether it be day or night, whetherpeople are working or sleeping, the separation and judgment will come. Thosewho are saved will be left to enter the glorious kingdom, while those who arelost will be taken away in judgment. Eventhough the primary interpretation of these verses is for Israel in the endtimes, they do emphasize for the church the importance of being ready whenJesus returns. We must not be like Lot's wife whose heart was so in Sodom thatshe looked back in spite of the angels' warning (Gen. 19:17, 26). There aremany professed Christians today whose plans would be interrupted if Jesusreturned! (note 1 Thes. 5:1-11) Our Lord's warning in Luke 17:33 findsparallels in Matthew 10:39; Luke 9:24; and John 12:25, and is a fundamentalprinciple of the Christian life. The only way to save your life is to lose itfor the sake of Christ and the Gospel. Jesuspictured civilization as a "rotting corpse" that would one day beripe for judgment. The discerning believer sees evidence of this on every handand realizes that the "days of Noah" and the "days of Lot"are soon on us. Our Lord can return for His church at any time, so we are notlooking for signs; but we do know that "coming events cast their shadowsbefore." As we see many of these things begin to come to pass (Luke21:28), we know that His return is nearing. Arewe looking for His return, and do we really want to see Him come? Remember, Lot'swife, and don't look back but be looking up! Godbless.
Clyde Raynard - April 27, 2025 - The Glory of His Grace - Ephesians 1:4-6 Part 1 of Ephesians – What your calling is. (Who you are in Christ) Our Motivation for A Worthy Walk – Ch 1-3 Part 2 of Ephesians – How to Walk Worthy. (Walking as Christ would walk) The Manner of A Worthy Walk – Ch 4-6 Our Motivation for A Worthy Walk The Father's Plan 1:1-6 Verse 3 – To Bless Us (The Extensiveness of His Blessing) The Praiseworthy God - “Blessed” (eulogetos) Rev. 4:13-14 The Personal God - “God AND Father…” John 20:17 The Prodigal God – EVERY spiritual Blessing Not “A” spiritual blessing Not “SOME” spiritual blessings Not “MANY” spiritual blessings But, EVERY spiritual blessing! In Christ (The Ground of His Blessing) The Father's Plan 1:1-6 2 Thes. 2:13 Acts 16:31 2 Thessalonians 2:8-10 John 3:16-18 Acts 17:39 Acts 20:20-21 We are saved by freely trusting Christ as our Saviour. John 6:37 Is it the Sovereignty of God at work, or the Free will of man? YES! Perplexing Things in The Bible – “By-Faith Understandings” aka: the IHNI File The Hypostatic Union of Christ The Trinity of God The Sovereignty of God and The Free Will of Man Simple Proof For Sovereignty and Free Will In Salvation Statements Reasons God Sovereignly chose us to be saved Eph 1:4, 1 Thess. 2:13, Etc. Sinners must trust Christ as Saviour Acts 16:31, John 3:16, Etc. God sovereignly chooses us AND we freely trust Him. GSS - God Says So Bug-Busters Choose a Side - (Sovereignty! or Free Will!) or Choose to Submit - Listen to God and believe ALL that He says. (Even if you can't fully explain or understand it.) Does This Railroad Lead to Heaven God's “Railway to Heaven” runs on two tracks – His Sovereignty and our free will. Eliminate or emphasize either one and you have a train wreck Ephesians 1:4 “…just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we would be holy and blameless before Him.” What did God do? “…He Chose us…”! When did He do this? “…before the foundation of the world…” Why did He do this? “…that we would be holy and blameless before Him.”
While Pope Francis simmers in the Ninth Circle with the Rev J. Iscariot (perhaps the first Evangelical Zionist), I thought it wise to warn Christians how to avoid becoming a Judeo-Christian. And how to “come out of her,” as it is said. Consider this a cheat sheet rather than a treatise: 1) The state called Israel today, on the shore of the Mediterranean, is not the same as the ancient children of Israel. 2) Jesus Christ knew what the prophets said, His Spirit inspired the Prophets. So when Jesus Christ says that Jews are the devil's spawn He does not contradict Himself. 3) Modern Judeo-Christians reject Christ's statement that Jews are the devil's spawn and Satan's synagogue and replace Christ's Theology with a Jewish fable, which is that Jews are God's “chosen.” 4) Jews are liars (John 8:44, Rev 3:9). So why would a Christian ever adopt a Jewish interpretation of anything? 5) “Israel” (the dirt in the Middle-East) is not “Israel” the offspring of Jacob. 6) Living in the dirt called Israel (in the Middle East) does not make anyone the offspring of Jacob/Israel. 7) Many different ethnicities converted to become Jew in the Bible, starting with Esther 8:17, proceeding to Matthew 23:15, and continuing in the Book of Acts. This continues today — Ivanka Trump became Jew recently. Centuries ago the wild tribe of Khazarians converted en-mass and became Jews and they make up about 80% of all Jews today, they call themselves Ashkenazi Jews. (Askenaz was a tribe for Japheth, not of Shem). The sons of of Esau (Edom) converted en-masse to become Jews about a century before the time of Christ; King Herod was an Edomite Jew — they make up a good portion of the “Sephardic” Jews. 8) What happened, then to the tribes of Israel? The Tribes of Israel dispersed to Europe and then converted to Jesus Christ as Europe became Christendom. What proof? a. The Jews themselves testify that the the Dispora went to Europe: John 7:35 b. When the Europeans came to see Jesus, Jesus said now was His own time for glory. John 12:23 c. European man, Pontius Pilate, declared Jesus Christ innocent three times. d. The Jews disowned Jesus Christ, demanded HIs crucifixion, and said they had “no King but Ceasar.” John 19:15 e. Jesus Christ said that He came “only for the lost sheep of the House of Israel.” Jesus did not abandon Israel. f. In order to reach Israel, He sends the Apostles away from Jerusalem in order to reach the Dispersion of Israel. g. In order to reach the Dispersion of Israel, who went to Europe, every book of the New Testament is written in the premier European language (Greek). The New Testament is ONLY in that European language because that is where the Twelve Tribes disperse to. h. There is NO epistle to a non-European place name; there is no Epistle to Africa or China or the New Word. i. There is no epistle to Jerusalem or Judea or Samaria. j. Every Epistle is written to European places (Rome, Corinth, Thessaloniki, Galatia, etc. or refers to European churches and Christians. k. Epistles written to individuals (like Timothy) refer to Europen places). Timothy Himself had a European father. Titus is a European name. l. All Seven of the Churches of the Revelation are European — they were cities founded and colonized by the Greeks and Romans. m. There is no prayer for the “Peace of Jerusalem” in the New Testament; rather, every Epistle has a prayer for the peace of the Church or individual Christians. Jerusalem, the dusty city, is desolate. n. As the Twelve Tribes converted to Jesus Christ (which they have over the last two-thousand years) they ‘have already come” to Mount Zion and the heavenly Jerusalem. (Hebrew 12:22). They should look for no other home than that. o. Romans 11: 25-26: A partial hardening of Israel (NOT the Jews) happened until the fullness of the the Gentiles come in and in that manner, or by this way, all Israel is saved: “And in this way all Israel will be saved” Romans 11:26 ESV p. Jews are hostile to all nations and ethnic groups (1 Thes 2;15). Jews are not a blessing to the nations. It is the Christian European nations that brought the Blessing of Jesus Christ to the entire world: Africa, China, and the Western Hemisphere. This the Jews did not do; rather, the Jews prevent people from hearing the Gospel in order that they may be saved (1 Thes 2:16, and the entire book of Acts). q. Noahs' prophecy in Genesis 9:27 is linked to Romans 11:26. The Europeans would dwell under the tent/cover/salvation brough via Shem's family. There is nothing that suggest that “Jews” are God's chosen people. Israel? Yes. But modern Jews are not “Israel,” rather they are liars, frauds and identity thieves (John 8:44, Rev 3:9). Christians are warned in Titus about Jewish myths (Titus 1:10-14). Claiming that “Jesus is a Jew” is one of them. Jesus is the Nazarene and a Galilean. The Father of Jesus Christ is not even remotely a Jew. Jesus Christ is the son of David and David's Lord at the same time. But reducing Jesus to a “Jew” is calling him a child of Satan (John 8:44) and a member of the synagogue of the devil (Rev 3:9, Rev 2:9). Jesus Christ is the Creator of all things. John 1 and Hebrews 1.
Story Time with Mama V - Children entertainment and a welcomed break for the parents.
Hello and welcome to the show! Today I'm reading Castle of Knots written by Sara H. Fowler. This is story that I personally relate to as a parent who had to brush out knots and tangles out of their child's hair. In the author's words:"When a beautiful young princess is trapped within a castle of knots---a mighty fortress covered in brambles, tangled weeds, and underbrush---a brave knight, also known as Mom, must cross the Valley of Dollies and Laundry Lake to take on the impossible task of freeing the princess...just in time for school."Please grab your copy of the physical book which is available on AMAZON.Listen in to the full story! By the way, if you haven't had a chance yet to leave us a rating and a review, please do so. Thes earnings and reviews help other young listeners discover our show. Thank you, Bye for Now :)Victoria aka Mama VSupport the show
It may surprise us to read that holiness starts with a negative action: ‘Therefore put to death …' (v. 5); later we have the positive side: ‘Therefore … put on' (vv. 12–17). These appeals are undoubtedly of a high moral and spiritual standard and they will challenge and search the soul; but they must not be rebelled against nor neglected. It is the Christian's calling to seek God's grace so as to walk in a holy manner. Paul exhorts them to refuse to yield to the appeal of sin: ‘Put to death your members'. We possess a fallen human nature, but the call is to subdue the passion and power of the flesh (cf. 1 Thes. 4:3, 7). Holiness negatively considered (vv. 5–11) Sinful self-indulgence (vv. 5–7) Col 3:5 Therefore put to death your members which are on the earth: fornication, uncleanness, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry. The word mortify means “put to death.” Because we have died with Christ (Col. 3:3), we have the spiritual power to slay the earthly, fleshly desires that want to control us. Paul called this “reckoning” ourselves to be dead to sin but alive in Christ (Rom. 6:11). Our Lord used the same idea when He said, “And if thy right eye offend thee, pluck it out” (Matt. 5:29–30).[i] John Owen's said The choicest believers, who are assuredly freed from the condemning power of sin, ought yet to make their business all their days to mortify the indwelling power of sin.[ii] The reliance on the Holy Spirit to help us overcome sin is the only way that works. All other ways of mortification are vain, all helps leave us helpless; it must be done by the Spirit…Mortification from self strength, carried on by ways of self-invention, unto the end of a self righteousness, is the soul and substance of all false religion in the world.[iii] 1Sa 15:32 Then Samuel said, "Bring Agag king of the Amalekites here to me." So Agag came to him cautiously. And Agag said, "Surely the bitterness of death is past." 33 But Samuel said, "As your sword has made women childless, so shall your mother be childless among women." And Samuel hacked Agag in pieces before the LORD in Gilgal. Not only was Paul negative in this paragraph, but he also named sins; and some people do not like that. These sins belong to the old life and have no place in our new life in Christ. Furthermore, God's judgment falls on those who practice these sins; and God is no respecter of persons. God's wrath fell on the Gentile world because of these sins (Rom. 1:18ff), and His wrath will fall again. “Because of these, the wrath of God is coming,” Paul warned (Col. 3:6,). Five self-indulgent sins of the flesh, mind and heart are listed here. Christians must put them all to death. ‘Fornication' is sexual immorality in general and includes sex outside of marriage which is contrary to God's law. ‘Uncleanness' is moral impurity of all kinds and has an inward reference here to the mind and thoughts including “lustful impurity that is connected with luxury and loose living.”. ‘Passion' is lust that uses others for self-gratification. It describes a state of mind that excites sexual impurity. The person who cultivates this kind of appetite can always find opportunity to satisfy it[iv] ‘Evil [wicked] desire' is a craving for evil things. desires lead to deeds, appetites lead to actions. If we would purify our actions, then we must first purify our minds and hearts. What we desire usually determines what we do[v] If I create in my children an appetite for candy, then I must satisfy that appetite. If they become overweight and unhealthy, then I must change their appetites, and I must teach them how to enjoy foods other than sweets. “Create in me a clean heart, O God” (Ps. 51:10) should be our prayer; for it is out of the heart that these evil desires come (Mark 7:21–23).[vi] ‘Covetousness which is idolatry' is not a reference to stone or silver gods or goddesses, but to a greedy heart. Greed is idolatry. Literally, it is ‘to have more'—thus adultery is idolatry, as it wants more. Covetousness is the sin of always wanting more, whether it be more things or more pleasures. The covetous person is never satisfied with what he has, and he is usually envious of what other people have. This is idolatry, for covetousness puts things in the place of God. “Thou shalt not covet” is the last of the Ten Commandments (Ex. 20:17). Yet this sin can make us break all of the other nine! A covetous person will dishonor God, take God's name in vain, lie, steal, and commit every other sin in order to satisfy his sinful desires.[vii] Col 3:6 Because of these things the wrath of God is coming upon the sons of disobedience, 7 in which you yourselves once walked when you lived in them. Do believers in local churches commit such sins? Unfortunately, they sometimes do. Each of the New Testament epistles sent to local churches makes mention of these sins and warns against them. I am reminded of a pastor who preached a series of sermons against the sins of the saints. A member of his congregation challenged him one day and said that it would be better if the pastor preached those messages to the lost. “After all,” said the church member, “sin in the life of a Christian is different from sin in the lives of other people.” “Yes” replied the pastor, “it's worse!” God hates these sins. They are against his moral law (Exod. 20), and those who do them are called ‘sons of disobedience' (v. 6); unrepentant sinners will feel the just wrath of God (Matt. 10:28; 25:19–30; 2 Thes. 1:8–9). Mark 8:36 "For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? John 14:6 Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me. Have you trusted Him as your Savior? He can Save you if You ask Him based on His death, burial, and resurrection for your sins. Believe in Him for forgiveness of your sins today. “And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” -John 8:32 Our mission is to spread the gospel and to go to the least of these with the life-changing message of Jesus Christ; We reach out to those the World has forgotten. hisloveministries.podbean.com #HLMSocial hisloveministries.net https://www.instagram.com/hisloveministries1/?hl=en His Love Ministries on Itunes Don't go for all the gusto you can get, go for all the God (Jesus Christ) you can get. The gusto will get you, Jesus can save you. https://www.facebook.com/His-Love-Ministries-246606668725869/?tn-str=k*F The world is trying to solve earthly problems that can only be solved with heavenly solutions [i] Wiersbe, W. W. (1996). The Bible exposition commentary (Vol. 2, p. 134). Victor Books. [ii] VI:7. [iii] VI:7. [iv] Wiersbe, W. W. (1996). The Bible exposition commentary (Vol. 2, p. 135). Victor Books. [v] Wiersbe, W. W. (1996). The Bible exposition commentary (Vol. 2, p. 135). Victor Books. [vi] Wiersbe, W. W. (1996). The Bible exposition commentary (Vol. 2, p. 135). Victor Books. [vii] Wiersbe, W. W. (1996). The Bible exposition commentary (Vol. 2, p. 135). Victor Books.
Happy Easter everyone! Just over a week to go! See you all this afternoon. Carney wants to blow a quarter-trillion dollars, but you know what? Nobody can afford to pay for their election promises because Canada is hopelessly in debt!...Support independent journalism by contacting the Debate CommissionIf you would like to send your feedback to the Leadership Debate Commission here is the email. info@debates-debats.ca. ...Thes video credit for the bird dance boomers is to Dacey media and Caryma RulesVid their X accounts here:https://x.com/chrisdaceyhttps://x.com/CarymaRulesWATCH with the Bird Dance music here: https://x.com/chrisdacey/status/1913726190671511605...Mark Carney's Net Zero plan isn't just a political move—it's a roadmap to economic disaster.
Wrapping up our Easter series “Last Supper with The Chosen”, Pastor Jodi teaches on the resurrection of Jesus, which is the most important event in all of history. Despite what looked like loss, defeat, and sorrow in the crucifixion, everything turned around on that Sunday morning when the disciples realized Jesus was risen! He was risen indeed!!! We too, when we suffer with Jesus, can experience the JOY He has made available to us through the message of the cross. This Sunday we will celebrate the “Super Bowl” of Sundays for those who believe in this message of the resurrection of Christ.Key Scriptures:John 16:20,11:25-26, Rom 8:17, Phi 3:10-11, 2 Cor 1:5, 1 Thes 4:14-18, Heb 3:15
https://bloodandfaith.com/2025/04/16/jena-griswold-the-jew/ “the Jews who killed the Lord Jesus and the prophets and also drove us out. They displease God and are hostile to everyone in their effort to keep us from speaking to the Gentiles so that they may be saved. In this way they always heap up their sins to the limit. The wrath of God has come upon them at last.” 1 Thes 2:15-16 Fritz Berggren, PhD https://bloodandfaith.com/2025/04/16/jena-griswold-the-jew/
Now amazing, the place we pick up in Luke 12:22-29, seemsto specifically be for our family during a time like this! Remember Jesusbegins this chapter telling His disciples to “beware of hypocrisy” (vv. 1-12).Then Jesus tells them to “beware of covetousness” (vv. 13-21). You might havenoticed like me, that in verse 22, this is the second time Jesus specificallyaddresses His disciple in this chapter. In verses 1 and 22, we read, “…Jesussaid to His disciples”. Now, In verse 22, Jesus basically is saying to them,and to us, “beware of worry”. Jesus had just told the story of the rich farmer who was afool, not because he was rich, but because he forgot to consider God and eternity.The rich farmer worried because he had too much, but the disciples might betempted to worry because they did not have enough! They had given up all theyhad in order to follow Christ They were living by faith, and faith is alwaystested. First, we should remember that worry is destructive.The word translated "worry" in Luke 12:22 (or “anxious” in othertranslations), means "to be torn apart," and the word “anxious”,translated "doubtful mind" in Luke 12:29, KJV, ASV, means "to beheld in suspense." It is the picture of a ship being tossed in a storm.Our English word worry comes from an old Anglo-Saxon word that means "tostrangle." "Worry does not empty tomorrow of its sorrow," saidCorrie Ten Boom; "it empties today of its strength." Someone said, “Worryis like being in a rocking chair. It will give you something to do but won'tget you anywhere”. It will emotionally wear you out! Worry is also deceptive. It gives us a falseview of life, of itself, and of God. Worry convinces us that life is made up ofwhat we eat and what we wear. We get so concerned about the means that wetotally forget about the end, which is to glorify God (Matt. 6:33). There is agreat difference between making a living and making a life. Worry blinds us tothe world around us and the way God cares for His creation. God makes theflowers beautiful, and He even feeds the unclean ravens who have no ability tosow or reap. He ought to be able to care for men to whom He has given theability to work. Jesus was not suggesting that we sit around and let God feedus, for the birds themselves work hard to stay alive. Rather, He encourages usto trust Him and cooperate with Him in using the abilities and opportunitiesthat He gives us (2 Thes. 3:6-15). But worry even blinds us to itself. We can get to the placewhere we actually think that worry accomplishes good things in our lives! InLuke 12:25, Jesus pointed out that our worries do not add one extra minute toour lives (Ps. 39:5) or one extra inch to our height. The rich farmer'sfretting certainly did not lengthen his life! Instead of adding to our lives,our worries take away from our lives. People can worry themselves into thehospital or into the grave! Once again, Jesus argued from the lesser to thegreater. If God feeds the birds, He will surely feed His children. If Hebeautifies the plants that grow up one day and are cut down the next, surely Hewill clothe His own people. The problem is not His little power, for He can doanything; the problem is our little faith. The emotion of worry should be like an alarm clock to us.It warns and alerts us that we are looking and thinking more about our needs,and focusing on them, rather than our great God who loves us and cares for us, andis more than sufficient to meet those needs. May the Lord often remind us of His cure for worry in Philippians4:6-7, “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer andsupplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; andthe peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts andminds through Christ Jesus.” God bless!
Sermon: Prayer: Our Constant Declaration of our Dependence upon, Desire for, and Delight in GodSeries: The ChurchSpeaker: Pastor Tom WilsonText: Luke 18:1; Rom 12:12; Eph 6:18; Col 4:2; 1 Thes 5:16-18Date: March 9, 2025...
The Arrogance of the Beast that arose three hundred years ago. The Genocide of the White and Christian race by the Dragon and his people (John 8:44) Shorts of this video are at gab.com/cybertext Rev 13:6-7 Revelation 3:9 1 Thes 2:15-16 Daniel 8:20-21 John 8:44 Rev 12:15-17 Fritz Berggren, PhD www.bloodandfaith.com
Aging brings challenges, but the mindset we bring to it can make all the difference. In this episode, Dr. Joe Casciani welcomes David Lereah. David is the founder of United We Age, to explore the power of positive aging, resilience, and community engagement. David shares his remarkable journey surviving stage 3 esophageal cancer and how it transformed his perspective on aging. And how this led him to champion support programs for seniors. Together, they discuss: How mindset and resilience impact aging outcomes The importance of engaging seniors in meaningful activities Support systems for residents in long-term care How volunteers and youth programs can help bridge the generational gap The role of storytelling and shared experiences in positive aging Join us as we explore ways to help seniors find purpose and cope with challenges. And hear more about embracing a mindset of growth and optimism.
Sermon preached for Sunday School on 3/16/25 by Pastor Henry Funkhouser at the First Baptist Church of Easton.Welcome to those joining via Podcast, we are glad to have you join us. If you are ever in the Easton Area, we would love to have you visit us! If you care to support the ministry, visit us at firstbaptisteaston.com, click Donate. https://app.aplos.com/aws/give/FirstBaptistChurchofEaston
Does anyone look forward to a review? NOT ME!? What kind of review did this church get and how were they challenged?
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In this Bible Study, we go verse by verse through Leviticus chapter 2. We unpack the multiple types of prepared Grain offerings instructed by God for the Israelites to make. We also take a deep look at Leaven / Yeast in the Bible as well as why salt was always to be included in the grain offering. Finally, as always, we conclude with an application of this text for our lives today. Join us as we dig deep into scripture!Outline: 03:28 - Background explanation05:25 - “Grain Offering” - Hebrew word study - Minḥâ מִנְחָה (gift), (offering) - it is a gift to the Lord.Gen 32-33 - we see Jacob reunited with his brother Esau Gen 43.11 - gifts for Joseph in Egypt. Same word. 07:03 - A portion was burned on the altar - the rest went to the priest for their food. 1 Cor 9.13-14, Deut 25.410:14 - support the work of Iron Sheep Ministries - Mail your gift to 4300 Route 50, Suite 105, Saratoga Springs NY 12866Or give online at -www.ironsheep.org/donate11:38 - Grain Offerings were often offered with other sacrifices Lev 9.4“grain offering” occurs 93x in NIV - 29x Lev, 44x Num. (21x Num 28-29). Those two chapters summarize offerings to be made daily, weekly, monthly, and at annual festivals (Passover, Day of Atonement, Festival of Weeks, etc). 13:08 - 5 different types of grain offerings in Lev 2Lev 2.1-3 - 1 - uncooked - includes incense (niv) - KJV, AMP, CSB, ESV - “Frankincense”13:57 - What is Frankincense? It is a dried resin from the Boswellia tree (native to the Sinai peninsula). It is a key ingredient in incense. Used throughout the ancient Near East as part of burnt sacrifices. Mat 2.11 it was a gift brought from the Magi, which symbolized Jesus' future sacrifice he would become on the altar for our atonement of sin.15:47 - Lev 2.4 - 2 baked in an oven - thin or thick loaves Lev 2.5-6 - 3 cooked on a griddleLev 2.7 - 4 cooked in a pan16:14 - Lev 2.11-12- no yeast (leaven) or honey? 16:46 - Topical look at Yeast (leaven) in the Bible. “Yeast” occurs 57 times in the NIV; 10 in the New Testament and 47 in the Old Testament. In OT yeast is always literal and related to cooking in bread.Gen 19.3 - Lot makes bread without yeastExo 12-13 - God's instructions on the Passover meal. They had no time to let the yeast rise. Deu 16:3.Lev 7.13 & Lev 23.17 - both are instances of bread made with yeast.In the New Testament, yeast is always figurative, sometimes good and sometimes bad.Matt 13.33, & Luke 13.20-21, yeast represents the Kingdom of HeavenMatt 16.5-12; (Mrk 8.14-21) yeast represents sin, specifically hypocrisy (Luke 12.1)Gal 5.9 - yeast is false teaching 1 Cor 5.6-7 - yeast is sin, malice & wickedness28:02 - Lev 2.13 - what is the “salt of the covenant of your God” Salt is a preservative and a flavor enhancer. Salt was added to all the offerings as a reminder that the offerings were a preservative of the covenant. Salt is also a picture of how we are to be as Christians. Read Matthew 5.13, where Jesus calls us to be the Salt of the Earth.31:15 - Lev 2.14-16 - Firstfruits - What are first fruits? 1 Cor 15.19-2134:17 - Conclusion and Application. 1 Thes 5.16-18; John 6.29-35. Reference: Support Iron Sheep Ministries: https://Ironsheep.org/donateListen to the podcast: https://anchor.fm/ironsheepContact Dave & the ISM team: info@ironsheep.orgBe notified of each new teaching, join the email list: http://eepurl.com/g-2zADReferences:Dave reads from an NIV (New International Version) of the Bible.Barker, L. Kenneth. The Expositor's Bible Commentary, Abridged Edition, Old Testament. Grand Rapids, MI:Gane, Roy. The NIV Application Commentary, Leviticus, Numbers. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2004.Tenney, Merrill. New International Bible Dictionary. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1987.Wiersbe, Warren W.. The Bible Exposition Commentary, Old Testament, The Pentateuch. Colorado Springs, CO: David C. Cook, 2001.
Are you an encourager? Do you like to exhort people or come alongside them to help? It is an excellent gift if you do. How you coach people and direct them is essential. The Apostle Paul leaves us a great example of how to do this. This will be a good time to sharpen your spiritual coaching skills.
On todays cast we begin our coverage of the random Xenos of the galaxy. Our focus is on some of the Xenos that have no codex. Thes are races that appear in stories, codexes, and some of GW's side games. Many of these races have only a few (very well written) paragraphs on them in the lore, so it is more of a quick rundown on each of the races. On todays cast we cover: The Tepresi, Cythor Fiends, Caryatids, Rak'Gol, the Slaugth and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
(Did he really win?!!!!!!!!!)January 20 2025: For the very first PSYCHOTIC BUMP SCHOOL of 2025, DJ ROME tackles politics, MLK, and strong-man problems with a returning lyrical wordsmith out of Washington D.C., and welcomes a first-time guest out of Los Angeles amidst the most expensive wildfires in California history. PARTS 1 & 2 Legendary M/C/Poet/Singer/Lyricist/Artist WES FELTON (top left) not only represents one-half of The CrossRhodes, a combo hip-hop/R&B tandem he co-founded with bandmate (and cousin) Raheem DeVaughn, he is also the consummate multi-threat artist who drops in to share his brand new album with us entitled "KINGS IN THE WILDERNESS Part 2" that he released with Virginia-based artist KeepAnEyeOnTheProduct-all amidst the backdrop of the nation engaging in a ceremonial peaceful transfer of power. Listen all the way to the end as WES shares powerful lifelong lessons of perseverance, adaption, and remaining resilient in the face of adversity. https://wesfelton.bandcamp.com/https://wesfelton.bandcamp.com/album/kings-in-the-wilderness-pt-2-2PART 3: The recent catastrophic wildfires have leveled beloved communities in Southern California from AltaDena to the Pacific Palisades leaving families devastated as they try desperately to rebuild their lives from the ashes. To aid in this cause DJ AARON PAAR (top right) out of Los Angeles stops by for the very first time to share an event he's collaborating on with legendary soul singer/songwriter Sy Smith that they're calling The Syberspace Social at the newly anointed JUJU SOCIAL CLUB. AARON shares a brief history of his dj life and career as an active contributor to the vast and ever enduring West Coast Soulful Underground. https://www.jujusocialclub.com/events/syberspace-social-a-musical-explorationAARON: https://linktr.ee/apaar13?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaag4gsGB2GyhQngAknfM9aabphAfYrZWquUDi155T_RKO4roPS7aYqeF1g_aem_S8PXiHN3sN8DJAddq9MdIgWelcome to 2025!So press PLAY and ENJOY!
1 Thes. 1:1-10: Paul recalls his first impressions of the believers in Thessalonica, commending them for their faith, love, and hope.
Do you ever feel tempted to compare the way you live out your faith to the way others are living out theirs? How do we battle this temptation to comparison? In this episode of The Crosswalk Devotional, we explore the concept of a simple call and how it can transform our lives and the lives of those around us. Each of us receives unique prompts from God, inviting us to step into our purpose and serve others. We’ll discuss how these calls may manifest in our daily lives, the significance of responding to them, and the impact they can have on our faith journey. Join us as we share inspiring stories and biblical insights that encourage us to answer the call, no matter how simple it may seem. Join the Conversation: We’d love to hear from you! What simple call have you answered in your life, and how has it shaped your faith? Share your experiences with us on social media @LifeaudioNetwork or via email. What challenges have you faced in responding to God’s call?
Send us a textEpisode Title: Riding Waves and Beats with Thes One (Christopher Portugal)In this episode of The Quivercast, we sit down with Thes One, aka Christopher Portugal @piecelock70, a multi-talented surfer, rapper, hip-hop artist, and record producer. Growing up in the vibrant yet gritty town of San Pedro, Thes was introduced to surfing by his uncle, igniting a lifelong passion for the ocean. At the same time, he discovered his love for music, which eventually led him to co-found the iconic rap group, People Under the Stairs. Surfing in San Pedro wasn't always easy—its localized breaks and colorful characters made for a challenging lineup, especially for outsiders. But this unique environment shaped Thes, leaving an indelible mark on both his surfing and his music.While his music career took center stage for much of his early adult life, the ocean never stopped calling. Thes eventually returned to his hometown, rekindling his relationship with surfing and finding balance between his two passions. Now, whether he's on tour or traveling the globe, he makes time to chase waves and soak in the stoke of surf culture. Tune in as Thes shares his journey of navigating the intersections of music, surf, and creativity, and how these passions continue to shape his life today.Support the showBUY THE ENDLESS SUMMER BOX SET HERE!If you like the QuiverCast here are some ways to help us keep going! I always like Coffee! Buy me a Coffee! Find Us: Website: thequivercast.com Instagram: @quiver_cast Facebook: The QuiverCast Sound Editing by: The Steele Collective
Continuing our mini-series on “Encounter, Encourage, Engage”, Pastor Jodi teaches how to “Encourage Transformation”. In a culture of negativity and judgment, there is a way to grow and change and be faith-filled, and that is through encouragement! We are urged to both be encouraged and to encourage others in order to see true transformation and blessing. Key Scriptures:Josh 1:8-9, 1 Sam 30:3-4,6, Phi 4:8, Gen 16:13, Acts 9:31, Job 42:10, 1 Thes 5:11, Heb 3:12-13,10:23-25
Brian Russell shares his transformational takeaways from his study of the Scriptures related to Advent 2024. Week 1: Psalm 50; Zech 14:1-8; 1 Thes 3:6–13, Luke 21:25–33 Our mighty One, God the Lord, who alone is the righteous judge and our redeemer and deliverer. Help us to be mindful of the times so that we can wait expectantly and confidently for your arrival. Fill our hearts with gratitude so that they are open for the infusion of your holy love in order that we may stand firm in faith and manifest love for one another and for the world at the coming of our Lord Jesus. In the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen Week 2 Psalm 126; Malachi 3:1–5; 1 Cor 4; Luke 3:1–6 Almighty God, who refines, purifies and restores the fortune of your people. Forgive us our sins. Cut out the idols in our hearts and the injustice that manifests in our lack of love for our neighbors. May we become stewards of your mysteries, voices of hope that announce your coming, and dreamers who embody before the world what you have done in Christ Jesus Who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit as One God, now and forevermore. Amen Week 3 Psalm 85, Zeph 3:14–20; Phil 4:4–9; Luke 3:7–20 O God of our salvation, who embodies steadfast love, faithfulness, righteousness and peace, Be powerfully present as in days of old. Grant us the courage of true repentance so that we may bear fruit that signals our readiness for the deep work you desire to do in us and through us. Send your Holy Spirit and your fire. Renew and revive a people for yourself that we may exult before the nations in the good news of your salvation. To you our King: Father, Son and Holy Spirit be all glory now and forevermore. Amen Week 4 Psalm 80, Mic 5:2–5a, Luke 1:39–56, Hebrews 10:1–10 O Lord, our God of the hosts of heaven, Cause us to turn back to you so that we may be saved. May your loving gaze shine anew upon us during this season. We wait patiently for you to renew us as you did in ancient times. Grant us the faith of Elizabeth and Mary who received your Word and acted on it. Fill us with your Holy Spirit. Sanctify us fully through your Son our Lord Jesus Christ the coming One. To whom, with you and the Holy Spirit, be honor and glory, now and for ever. Amen. Sign up for Brian's Deep Dive Spirituality Monthly Update: www.brianrussellphd.com/newsletter Interested in a coaching relationship with Brian for 2025? Email today: brian@brianrussellphd.com for a deep conversation to see if you are a good fit or check out www.brianrussellphd.com Brian Russell's Books Astonished by the Word: Reading Scripture for Deep Transformation https://amzn.to/49MS0ee Centering Prayer: Sitting Quietly in God's Presence Can Change Your Life https://amzn.to/2S0AcIZ (Re)Aligning with God: Reading Scripture for Church and World (Cascade Books) https://amzn.to/30tP4S9 Invitation: A Bible Study to Begin With (Seedbed) https://my.seedbed.com/product/onebook-invitation-by-brian-russell/ Brian's Recommended Resources on Centering Prayer: https://www.brianrussellphd.com/post/my-top-ten-favorite-resources-on-centering-prayer Connecting with Brian: Website: www.brianrussellphd.com Twitter: @briandrussell Instagram: @yourprofessorforlife Links to Amazon are Affiliate links. If you purchase items through these links, Amazon returns a small percentage of the sale to Brian Russell. This supports the podcast and does not increase the price of the items you may choose to buy. Thank you for your support.
God is the only One you can rely on to be faithful to you. “Faithful is He that calls you who will also do it” (1 Thes 5:24). His absolute faithfulness is His grace expression to you. “Great is Your faithfulness” (Lam 3:23). To reciprocate and be faithful to God, you must keep growing spiritually. The more you learn of God's Word and grow in your advance to spiritual maturity, the more you are responsible for. God expects you to be faithful and to glorify Him. “From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and to whom they entrusted much, of him they will ask all the more.” (Luke 12:48). Click for Full Transcript: https://rhem.pub/time-shout-d9ef9a
Fr. Ryan preached this homily on December 1, 2024. The readings are from Jer 33:14-16, Ps 25:4-5, 8-9, 10, 14, 1 Thes 3:12—4:2 & Lk 21:25-28, 34-36.
Fr. Patrick preached this homily on December 1, 2024. The readings are from Jer 33:14-16, Ps 25:4-5, 8-9, 10, 14, 1 Thes 3:12—4:2 & Lk 21:25-28, 34-36. — Connect with us! Website: https://slakingthirsts.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCytcnEsuKXBI-xN8mv9mkfw
It's the start of a new season of Sunday School— and a new liturgical year! But the readings this week are not exactly celebrating.Join Dr. Scott Powell, JD Flynn and Kate Olivera as they talk about the readings we will hear at Mass for the First Sunday of Advent.Already read the readings? Skip ahead to 3:30 Reading 1 - Jer 33:14-16Psalm - Ps 25: 4-5, 8-9, 10, 14Reading 2 - 1 Thes 3:12—4:2Gospel - Lk 21: 25-28, 34-36 This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe
Guard your Gratitude! 1 Thessalonians 5:19 provides a staunch reminder that we are not to “quench the Spirit” in our lives. In other words, we have the potential to stunt or stoke or the move of God in our lives. However, Paul instructs us as men and women of faith to engage in three distinct and practices that can help create an atmosphere conducive to the Lord having HIs way in our lives: rejoicing always, praying continually, and giving thanks in ALL circumstances for this is God's will for our lives through Christ Jesus (1 Thes. 5:16-18). There will be things that threaten to quench the Spirit of God in your life. There will be circumstances, experiences, interactions, seasons, and relationships that threaten to rob you of the joy that God has prepared for you, but today as we enter this Thanksgiving week we wanted to encourage your heart and remind you that we serve a Good, Faithful, Loving, and Consistent Father who is a God of Healing, Restoration, Redemption, and Provision. Therefore, joining us today on the podcast to share his testimony is a man who understands the power of praise, Micah Tyler. Micah is a renowned Christian singer, songwriter, and worship leader who has countless accolades, awards, and chart-topping songs, but what I love most about Micah is his unwavering devotion to the Lord, his wife Casey, and his 3 beautiful children. Our prayer is that through today's conversation you would be encouraged to look for God, even in the most challenging times, knowing that you can and will find Him in whatever season of life you find yourself in. And remember this my friends, even if God does nothing else, He has already done enough! Be sure to give Him your thanks and your praise, because He is worthy of those things! Happy Thanksgiving! Micah's Website: https://www.micahtyler.com/ Micah's Tour Schedule: https://www.micahtyler.com/tour Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Questions Covered: 02:59 – I attend a protestant church. What questions should I be asking the pastor? 12:46 – Am I going to heaven when I die? I was baptized in protestant church. 19:57 – I'm a recent convert. Why is mortal sin such a big deal if we can just go to confession? 29:36 – I'm in OCIA. I would like you to critique my reasoning on purgatory as I'm beginning to understand it. 34:32 – How do Catholics view salvation? 44:27 – What’s the difference between the elect of the Old Testament and the elect as Paul talks about in Romans 8? 52:05 – How do I respond to my protestant who brings up Mark 7:7-8 when I mention Thes. 2:15 during our discussion on tradition. …
Jer 26:1-27:22, 2 Thes 3:1-18, Ps 85:1-13, Pr 25:16
Jer 23:21-25:38, 2 Thes 2:1-17, Ps 84:1-12, Pr 25:15
Jer 23:21-25:38, 2 Thes 2:1-17, Ps 84:1-12, Pr 25:15
Jer 22:1-23:20, 2 Thes 1:1-12, Ps 83:1-18, Pr 25:11-14
Jer 19:1-21:14, 1 Thes 5:4-28, Ps 82:1-8, Pr 25:9-10
Jer 16:16-18:23, 1 Thes 4:1-5:3, Ps 81:1-16, Pr 25:6-8
Jer 14:11-16:15, 1 Thes 2:9-3:13, Ps 80:1-19, Pr 25:1-5
Jer 12:1-14:10, 1 Thes 1:1-2:8, Ps 79:1-13, Pr 24:30-34