Podcasts about through christ

Through Christ, the distorted image of God in us is fully restored! We were created in His image, but sin separated us. Now, through the finished work of Jesus, we are separated from sin and set apart for His glory. When we war, we don't fight from an earthly position but from a heavenly one, where victory has already been won. What we bind on Earth is already bound in Heaven, and what we loose is already loosed. Let's walk in this divine authority, radiating His holiness and presence everywhere we go.  

On this Memorial Day, we pause to reflect on the true meaning of this solemn holiday—not just a day of rest and recreation, but a time to remember and honor the men and women who laid down their lives in service to our country. Lynette Kittle takes us back to the origins of Memorial Day, offering historical perspective and spiritual comfort for those grieving their loss. Through Scripture and prayer, we are reminded that while their sacrifice brings sorrow, it also points to the ultimate hope we have in Christ. Themes Explored: The history and purpose of Memorial Day Honoring military sacrifice with reverence and gratitude The eternal hope for those who die in Christ Comfort for grieving families The call to remember freedom's cost Scripture Reference John 15:13 “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.”

In this week's message, Pastor John Durham closes out our Whole Heart series by unpacking Haggai 2:20–23. He reminds us that God will shake all that is temporary in order to establish what is eternal. Through Christ, we receive an unshakable Kingdom, and even what feels lost or broken can be fully restored. God is not finished.

Redeemed for Power is a bold and timely message that reminds us: redemption didn't just save us from sin—it empowered us for spiritual authority. Through Christ, we've been transferred from the kingdom of darkness and commissioned with divine purpose. As redeemed people, we don't walk in fear or defeat—we walk in the same power that raised Jesus from the grave.This message will challenge and equip you to live with confidence, carry Kingdom authority, and take action in your faith. You weren't just rescued—you were authorized.

Click here for the DRB Daily Sign Up form! TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: 1 Kings 8; 2 Chron 5; Ps 99; Rom 3 Click HERE to give! Get Free App Here! One Year Bible Podcast: Join Hunter and Heather Barnes on 'The Daily Radio Bible' for a daily 20-minute spiritual journey. Engage with scripture readings, heartfelt devotionals, and collective prayers that draw you into the heart of God's love. Embark on this year-long voyage through the Bible, and let each day's passage uplift and inspire you. TODAY'S EPISODE: Welcome to the Daily Radio Bible! In today's episode for May 22nd, 2025, your host Hunter invites you to join him on day 143 of our journey through the Bible. Together, we'll read from 1 Kings chapter 8, 2 Chronicles chapter 5, Psalm 99, and Romans chapter 3, exploring pivotal moments such as the dedication of Solomon's Temple and Paul's reflections on faith, righteousness, and grace. Hunter guides us through these passages, highlighting the incredible fulfillment of God's promises, the presence of God among His people, and the invitation to all—no matter where you're from—to walk in faith. We'll reflect on our deep need for a champion to fulfill righteousness, culminating in the good news that Christ alone has overcome sin, death, and the grave on our behalf. As always, the episode closes with a time of prayer, reflection, and a reminder of the transforming power of God's love. Whether you're listening from nearby or halfway across the world, we're so glad you're here. Let's continue this journey together—one day, one reading, and one prayer at a time! TODAY'S DEVOTION: He is our champion, our deliverer from sin and death. As we listen to the scriptures today—from the dedication of Solomon's temple to the prayerful cries of the psalmist, and the honest reckoning in Romans—we're reminded that at the heart of the story is a deep human need: we are all lawbreakers, unable to fulfill righteousness on our own. No matter how many sacrifices are offered or prayers are spoken, all fall short, and the law serves as a mirror, showing us our inability to save ourselves. But God does not leave us in that helpless place. The gospel, as Paul teaches, is that God himself has come to meet us in our unrighteousness—not to condemn, but to save. Jesus, our champion, has stepped into the darkness, into sin and even into death, taking upon himself what we could never bear or fix. In sharing our flesh and blood, he has defeated the power of death and the evil one, offering freedom to all who were enslaved by fear and shame. Through Christ, God's promise is fulfilled. The righteousness we could never achieve is given as a gift, and the faith that unites us to him draws us into his victory and life. Now, the invitation is this: to say yes, to wake up to this new reality that is ours in Christ. We do not strive to make ourselves worthy. We rest in the finished work of Jesus, receiving his mercy, walking forward in the freedom and joy he has won, and letting his life be our own. No longer do we try to earn acceptance, but we accept his love, knowing he is our champion, the fulfillment of all God's promises. That is a prayer I have for my own soul. That's the prayer I have for my family, for my wife, my daughters, my son. And that's the prayer I have for you. May it be so. TODAY'S PRAYERS: Lord of life, you have awakened me again to the gift of this day. You go before me, walk beside me, and dwell within me. Let me walk slowly in your presence. May I resist the hurried spirit of this world and instead breathe deep of your peace. Open my eyes to beauty, my ears to your voice, and my heart to the quiet work of grace. Help me not to strive, but to abide, not to achieve, but to receive. Today, let my words carry your kindness. My actions reflect your mercy. My thoughts be anchored in your truth, that I am yours and you are with me. Amen. And now as our lord has taught us, we are bold to pray. Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever and ever. Amen. OUR WEBSITE: www.dailyradiobible.com We are reading through the New Living Translation.   Leave us a voicemail HERE: https://www.speakpipe.com/dailyradiobible Subscribe to us at YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Dailyradiobible/featured OTHER PODCASTS: Listen with Apple Podcast DAILY BIBLE FOR KIDS DAILY PSALMS DAILY PROVERBS DAILY LECTIONARY DAILY CHRONOLOGICAL  

Send us a textThe concept of atonement sits at the very heart of Christian faith, yet many believers struggle to fully grasp its transformative power. Through Christ's sacrifice, we aren't merely forgiven—we're completely reconciled to God, standing before Him as guiltless and righteous beings.This powerful exploration begins by establishing what true atonement means: being made one with God through faith in Jesus Christ. We examine how Christ's death at Calvary accomplished something extraordinary—securing both reconciliation and justification for those who believe. Through reconciliation, peace is established between God and His people after sin's devastating separation. Through justification, believers are legally declared righteous, with no sin remaining for judgment.Perhaps the most difficult truth for many Christians to accept is that they stand before God as completely sinless creatures. Despite knowing all our failures and transgressions, faith allows us to embrace this extraordinary reality—we are treated by the Father exactly as He treats His own Son.The conversation then shifts to sanctification—that ongoing process of transformation into Christ's image. Unlike justification's one-time declaration, sanctification involves dying daily to self, progressive separation from sin, and growth in holiness. Crucially, this process looks different for each believer, with varying rates of growth and fruit production.Understanding sanctification's individualized nature should fundamentally reshape how believers interact. Since we're all at different stages spiritually, with different struggles and growth rates, judgment must give way to grace. We're called to meet fellow believers where they are, extending the same patience Christ shows us, while still offering gentle accountability when necessary.What would change in your walk with God if you truly believed you stand before Him completely guiltless? How might your relationships with other believers transform if you viewed their struggles through the lens of individualized sanctification? Join us as we unpack these life-changing truths and discover how the atonement of Christ offers both immediate justification and ongoing transformation.Support the show

In a world that often treats faith like a buffet, we might want to skip over topics like hell. But Jesus is clear—hell was never meant for us. You were created for relationship with God, not ruin. Through Christ, heaven isn't just a far-off destination—it's your true home. The invitation is open…will you accept it? Let's learn how to live like citizens of heaven today.   Recorded: Sunday, May 18, 2025

In this episode, Pastor Cindy talks about the importance of rest for the believer. She emphasized that it's not a matter of rest that we strive for on our own. It's about prioritizing our lives with God as the primary focus of our day. He is the one that provides true rest. He knows your schedule. He knows your job. He knows your needs and your wants and He is the only one that can bring to fruition all that you need to accomplish what He has for you to do. Through Christ, we don't strive for rest, we LIVE in it.  Scripture references: Revelation 4, Psalms 127:5, Hebrews 4:11-13, Ezekiel 36:26-27, John 16:13-15, Philippians 4:6-9, John 1:10-14, Ephesians 6:10-13.   Order your copy of Cindy's new book, NEW MOVES OF GOD Check out Cindy's TV show, CINDY STEWART LIVE. You can register for the 6-week, self paced e-course at COMPELLED TO CHANGE.  Please email Cindy with any questions or comments to cindy@cindy-stewart.com. She'd love to hear from you.  Pastor Cindy's Website  Pastor Cindy's Facebook  Pastor Cindy's Instagram Gathering Website  Gathering Facebook   Check out the other shows from KB PODCAST PRODUCTIONS: THE KINGDOM BRINGER PODCAST with Darin Eubanks Next Level Podcast with Michael McIntyre Super-Natural Living with Beth Packard KINGDOM MASTER MIND PODCAST with Ann McDonald   Podcast music from HOOKSOUNDS.COM    

Daily Devotion with Pastor Balla – May 15, 2025“God's Gift of Simple Pleasures” – Ecclesiastes 2:24–26 (ESV)After exploring the vanity of wealth, toil, and legacy, Solomon reminds us of something profound: the simple joys of eating, drinking, and honest work are gifts from God. In today's devotion, Pastor Balla reflects on Ecclesiastes 2:24–26, pointing us to the quiet blessing of daily life.True joy does not come from striving, but from receiving. The one who pleases God is granted wisdom, knowledge, and joy—not earned, but given. Meanwhile, those who labor apart from faith are left empty, their efforts serving no lasting purpose.Through Christ, even the simplest pleasures are sanctified. Join Pastor Balla and learn how to see life's ordinary moments as signs of your Heavenly Father's extraordinary care.Like, share, and subscribe for thoughtful biblical devotions rooted in the Lutheran confession.#Ecclesiastes #DailyDevotion #PastorBalla #LutheranFaith #GodProvides #SimpleBlessings

Micah Klutinoty in Week 4 of the Set Free series Romans 8:31-39 powerfully proclaims that nothing can separate us from the eternal love of God in Christ Jesus. Throughout this message, we are continually reminded of the unshakable security we as believers have in Christ, grounded in God's unwavering love and sovereign power. Through Christ's death, resurrection, and continual intercession, we are more than conquerors—fully assured that nothing in all creation can separate us from His love.

In this powerful episode, we're reminded that prayer is not about performance—it's about access. Through Jesus, the barrier between God and humanity was torn down. He didn't just point the way; He became the way (John 14:6), restoring the access we lost and giving us a new identity as sons and daughters.Here's what you'll learn:

Texts:  Genesis 5:1-32; Romans 5:12-21   The Generations of Adam (Gen. 5:1-32) God made man and woman after His likeness for His glory. The refrain of each generation ends in universal death: “And he died.” Enoch walked with God by faith and did not face death due to God's grace (Hebrews 11:5-6).   The Regeneration in Christ (Rom. 5:12-21)  Through Adam's sin, death came to all generations. Through Christ's death and resurrection, we can be made alive and justified by His grace to live with Him forever.

Are you stuck in a cycle of trying harder but never feeling free? In “Until Death Do Us Part: Breaking Free from Legalism and Towards Newness of Life” from Romans 7:1-25, we confront the harsh reality that legalism promises life but only delivers guilt, shame, and defeat. Like a toxic marriage to the law, we find ourselves trapped—knowing what is right but powerless to live it out. Yet, there is hope! Through Christ, we die to that old covenant and rise into a new relationship marked by grace, freedom, and real victory over the power of sin. This isn't a call to try—it's a call to trust. 

Year C – Fourth Sunday in Easter – May 11, 2025 Pastor Megan Floyd                 John 10:22-30; Acts 9:36-43   Grace and peace to you in the name of our risen savior, Jesus Christ, who consistently shows us how great God's love is for those we have pushed aside. Amen. *** Earlier this week, at our Tuesday Bible Study, we took a deeper look at this passage we heard today from Acts. It's always fun when a story we may have overlooked surprises us with details that seem to rise to the surface… in a new way. For us, this week… it was this beautiful story about this disciple… Tabitha. She is the only woman in scripture to be specifically named a disciple, even though some translations have converted the word ‘disciple' into ‘woman.' She was, in fact, a named disciple of Jesus. And she cared for those who were vulnerable and marginalized… she cared for them out of her own resources… the widows and the poor. She cared for them with love and offered them dignity in a very practical way… by weaving and sewing their clothes. This is significant. In first-century Rome, a person might only have one or two pieces of clothing at a time, and those pieces likely would have been made for them. So, the making, washing, and repair of clothing – a basic human need – was a serious business in the ancient world. Through giving of her time and skill, Tabitha was able to elevate her community of widows into a community that clearly cared for and supported each other …while surrounded by a society that would sooner have them pushed aside as objects. We are familiar with the social hierarchy of first-century Rome. A widow without a son was at the very bottom… they were the most vulnerable, and it is a recurring theme in scripture and Christian history that we, who follow Christ, must care for them. I have seen many examples of ministries that go above and beyond to care for those who are incredibly vulnerable and in need… the widows of our time. I would say our Parish House is one example of a ministry that goes above and beyond to restore life and dignity to those who are so incredibly vulnerable. And yet… how often do we encounter aid and ministry that assumes the ones being served will always depend on that aid? How often do we evaluate programs… and find that they consider those they serve to be objects of charity, rather than potential agents of ministry? Why do the stories of helping widows tend to fall short of imagining ways for them to become prosperous… or even simply… ways to reduce their vulnerability? You see… I think this was what was so special about the disciple, Tabitha. She understood Jesus' command to love and care for others, especially those who are vulnerable… She understood this to be a mission to not only provide for basic needs but also elevate them and restore their humanity and dignity. She understood the command to love those on the margins as a command to bring those who have been pushed aside… back into the center. This is what Jesus did. Again and again. Jesus healed people by restoring them to their community… and he usually did this by curing the illnesses that kept them apart. This is what Jesus did, he loved people and restored their dignity… and so this is what his disciple, Tabitha, did. Jesus, our Good Shepherd, loves us so deeply that we are more than mere objects of charity. Jesus' love for us is so abundant that we are restored… renewed… and transformed… and commissioned to carry that love forward to others. This kind of love not only sees and cares for the vulnerable on the margins, but it pulls them back into the community and calls them beloved and valuable. *** There is a community of women living near Guatemala City. They are the widows of those men who were disappeared during the great wave of violence and terror that the Guatemalan government perpetrated against the indigenous population in the 1980s. The community is called La Esperanza, which means “hope.” The women came together to offer mutual support and care for each other and their children. They would not accept direct charity, but they did accept funds from a Presbyterian program to build one durable building in the center of their community, which houses a day care center, a preschool, a health clinic, and a weaving cooperative. They have divided the responsibilities necessary for running their community, such as caring for the children, cooking, cleaning, sewing, and weaving clothes for themselves and to sell for income. Some have trained as dental hygienists and nurse practitioners to care for the community's health needs. These women have a dignified life… they were cast aside, but through love and care for each other, the kind of love that comes from Christ, their lives are renewed. *** I imagine that if the disciple, Tabitha, lived today… we might find her in a community like La Esperanza. …we would find her in a community centered around hope. We would find the disciple, Tabitha, where we find other disciples… in places where hope in the risen Christ is transformed into loving action for those in need. The kind of loving action that transforms a person from an object of ministry, into an agent of ministry… Transforming people who have been lifted up into those who can, in turn, lift others. This is the power of Christ's love working through us… through Christ's disciples. And all of this is remarkable… but we haven't even reached the most remarkable part of the story. The disciple, Tabitha, was so important to the community of widows… and so important to the community of Jesus' disciples… that when they sent for Peter after her death, he came immediately. And through Peter… Jesus restored Tabitha, back to life. Because she lived, the community of widows would not be left alone. This story about the disciple, Tabitha, teaches us something about the nature of Jesus… about the nature of God… That God's love for those on the margins is so great, that God will not leave them abandoned. And yet there is more… Because Tabitha lived, the community of widows understood firsthand that with Jesus, death does not have the final say. Reality is no longer bound to life and death, but rather, by Jesus' promise that through him, all things are made new. Those widows in Tabitha's community were no longer beholden to society's vision for them at the bottom of the social hierarchy… they were newly caught up in Christ's vision for them… as valuable, worthy, and beloved. A legacy that was surely carried forward into the community at La Esperanza. Through the resurrection power and love of Christ, we, too, are always being made new… remolded and remade… reminded that we are worthy and beloved. Through Christ's love… we are transformed. Amen.

Today on the Daily Nugget, Mike reflects on Romans 5:20–21 and the overwhelming power of God's grace. Sin is no small thing—it's a devastating problem that touches every part of our lives. But Paul reminds us that God's grace doesn't just meet our sin—it surpasses it. Through Christ, we are not only forgiven but made righteous. No matter how deep the sin, grace goes deeper still. That's the wonder of the gospel.

1 Peter 1: 13-2113 So prepare your minds for action and exercise self-control. Put all your hope in the gracious salvation that will come to you when Jesus Christ is revealed to the world. 14 So you must live as God's obedient children. Don't slip back into your old ways of living to satisfy your own desires. You didn't know any better then.  18 For you know that God paid a ransom to save you from the empty life you inherited from your ancestors. And it was not paid with mere gold or silver, which lose their value. 19 It was the precious blood of Christ, the sinless, spotless Lamb of God. 20 God chose him as your ransom long before the world began, but now in these last days he has been revealed for your sake.21 Through Christ you have come to trust in God. And you have placed your faith and hope in God because he raised Christ from the dead and gave him great glory.

In 1939, J.R. Tolkin took Robert Dickmans hypothesis one step further in a lecture he delivered titled, On Fairy Stories. In his lecture, Tolkin said the following about fairytales and those who create them: Probably every writer making a secondary world, a fantasy, every sub-creator, wishes in some measure to be a real maker, or hopes that he is drawing on reality: hopes that the peculiar quality of this secondary world (if not all the details) are derived from reality, or are flowing into it. The peculiar quality of the joy in successful Fantasy can thus be explained as a sudden glimpse of the underlying reality or truth. The Gospels contain a fairy-story, or a story of a larger kind, which embraces all the essence of fairy-stories. But this story is supreme, and it is true. Art has been verified. God is the Lord, of angels, and of menand of elves. Legend and History have met and fused.[1] In the Bible, the three great antagonists that we face in our story include the great serpent, the problem of sin, and death (in that order). Satan entered into the Garden as a serpent where the first man and woman enjoyed true love with both God and each other, they were tempted to sin against God by the Serpent. Adam and Eve ate the forbidden fruit that God commanded them not to eat and a curse was pronounced upon all of creation, and ever since that fateful day, sin and death have vandalized the peace we were created to enjoy with God. In the wake of Adam and Eves rebellion and under the shadow of evil and death, God gifted Adam and Eve a promise: The great serpent would one day be destroyed: And I will make enemies Of you and the woman, And of your offspring and her Descendant; He shall bruise you on the head, And you shall bruise Him on the heel. (Genesis 3:15) So who or what is the serpent? In The Lord of the Rings, he is the Dark Lord Sauron. In The Wizard of Oz, he is the Wicked Witch of the West. In The Matrix, he is Agent Smith. In The Chronicles of Narnia, he is the White Witch. In Superman, He is Lex Luther. In Star Wars, he is Darth Vader and every evil Sith Lord before and after him. The serpent is Lucifer, the devil, the father of lies, the accuser, and the great dragon. There is another antagonist that is the consequence of our sin and rebellion, and that is death. The word gospel simply means good news, and oh is there good news my dear brothers and sisters! The apostle Paul spoke of it in his epistle to the Romans: For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek (Rom. 1:16). The gospel of Jesus Christ from Genesis through the last chapter of Revelation has everything that every great story requires, and it is a story that has the power to not only transform, but to save! The gospel of Jesus Christ is supreme because it is indeed true, and it is seen and heard throughout the 23rd Psalm! The Good Shepherd Guides His Sheep through the Valley of Deep Darkness On resurrection Sunday, we looked at the first part of verse 4, Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for You are with me... Even if your first Sunday at Meadowbrooke was on that day, you should know by now that the Lord of the 23rd Psalm is the Good Shepherd, and His name is Jesus! He is my shepherd; therefore I will not be in need. Why will I not be in need? Well... because He is my bread of life who satisfies my hunger and quenches my thirst (John 6:35)! Why will I not be in need? Well... because He is the Light of the world who lights up the darkness that surrounds me (John 8:12)! Why again will I never ever be in need so long as Jesus is my shepherd? Well... let me tell you: He for me is the resurrection and the life who has promised that not even death can take from me what I already have in Him (John 11:25-26)! Now, just because Jesus is my Shepherd, that does not mean that I am exempt from walking through the valley of the shadow of death. As I said on Easter Sunday, we all must experience the valley of utter darkness that includes suffering, sickness, a broken world, and even death; however, those whose shepherd is Jesus only must walk through it while everyone else must walk in it. For the one who does not know Jesus as the bread of life, the light of the world, and the resurrection of life will never know the kind of hope that transcends the grave. For the one whose shepherd is not Jesus, the grave is deaths victory dance over you, and the news only gets worse beyond the grave. Jesus said, Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but are unable to kill the soul; but rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell (Matt. 10:28). Again, to all who would refuse Jesus as the good shepherd, He warned: Enter through the narrow gate; for the gate is wide and the way is broad that leads to destruction, and there are many who enter through it. For the gate is narrow and the way is constricted that leads to life, and there are few who find it (Matt. 7:1314). Jesus is the narrow gate! For those whose shepherd is Jesus, then the valley of the shadow of death is a temporary experience that you are only passing through. Do you know what that means? It means that there is life at the end of the valley! There is a table, and there is oil, and there is a cup placed into your hand dear Christian that is overflowing with His goodness and faithfulness all the days of your life! At that table, we will hold high that cup and toast: Where, O Death, is your victory? Where, O Death is your sting? The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the Law; but thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ (1 Cor. 15:55-57). The Good Shepherd Comforts His Sheep with His Rod and Staff What is the significance of Jesus rod and staff? For starters, He is the one leading us through the deep dark valleys on this side of eternity; while in the valley, we have no reason to fear evil because He is with us, and while with us... He is armed with His rod and staff. In their commentary on the Psalms, Josh Smith and Daniel Akin comment: We are going through the deep, dark valleys because our good shepherd is leading us! The dark valley is part of the path of righteousness.[2] Not to belabor the point I made previously, but what does the dark valley include? It includes pain, it includes suffering, it includes disease, it includes achy joints, it includes persecution, and it even includes death! After all, Jesus did say: In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world (John 16:33b). You may be saying in response to this: Pastor Keith, what about what Jesus said in John 10:10? Here is what Jesus said: The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came so that they would have life, and have it abundantly. The thief is anything or anyone that promises to give you what only Jesus is able to give, and the abundant life is a life with Jesus. Now, what about the rod and staff? Why not just the rod or only the staff? Why both? The rod was typically used as offensive weapon against any predator that would threaten the sheep from the outside while the staff was used to direct, round up, and pull in the sheep. While the rod is used to protect the sheep from enemies, the staff is used to protect the sheep from themselves. Jesus guides me with His staff, and as He does, He leads me through the valley to the table where He has prepared a feast for me. Because it is Jesus who carries the rod and the staff, I can be confident that Jesus will lead me to where I need to go, or as the apostle Paul put it: For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work among you will complete it by the day of Christ Jesus (Phil. 1:6), and He will use His rod and staff to do it. Or as one person wrote: Jesus Christ, our Shepherd, is no emaciated weakling. Our Shepherd is a warrior, as shepherds had to be. No one can snatch his sheep out of his hand (John 10:28). The muscles of his arm are flexed to defend his flock; he doesnt carry a club for nothing. He is obviously enough for whatever the valley throws at us.[3] What is the point of verse 4? Here is the point: If Jesus is my shepherd, then even in the darkest moments of life I have all that I need because I have Him. Or, as the modern hymn, Yet Not I but Through Christ in Me, so adequately and helpfully states: The night is dark, but I am not forsakenFor by my side, the Savior, He will stayI labor on in weakness and rejoicingFor in my need, His power is displayed To this I hold, my Shepherd will defend meThrough the deepest valley, He will leadOh, the night has been won, and I shall overcomeYet not I, but through Christ in me The Good Shepherd Prepares a Feast for His Sheep in the Presence of Their Enemies So, where is He leading me? Where is He leading you dear Christian? What is waiting for me, and what is waiting for all who are being led by the Good Shepherd? A table that has been prepared by Jesus is what is waiting for His sheep. What is on that table? A feast is what is on that table! What is the meaning of this feast that He has prepared? It is a testament, it is proof, and it is a witness to Gods favor upon His sheep. This, my friend, is the abundant life Jesus provides! Again, another set of verses from Yet Not I but Through Christ in Me rings true! No fate I dread, I know I am forgivenThe future's sure, the price, it has been paidFor Jesus bled and suffered for my pardonAnd He was raised to overthrow the grave To this I hold, my sin has been defeatedJesus, now and ever is my pleaOh, the chains are released, I can sing, "I am free"Yet not I, but through Christ in me Where is the table set for His redeemed to feast? It is set in the place that my enemies are made to watch and not permitted to touch, take, or taunt because of the One who has prepared the table for me. But do not miss that before my enemies and yours, He has anointed us with oil and placed a cup in each of our hands! Besides the fact that in the dry and hot climate of the valley, oil would be used to sooth the skin and wine would be consumed to clear the throat. However, there is more to the oil and the cup! The imagery of oil and wine in the Bible speak of joy and prosperity. Conclusion When I think of the table in Psalm 23:5, I cannot help but think of three feasts mentioned in the Bible. The first happened while the Hebrew people were surrounded by Egypt under the bondage of Pharoh. On the eve of their deliverance they marked their doorposts with the blood of a lamb with no defects and feasted on that lamb. After they feasted, God delivered the Hebrews from the bondage of slavery and defeated Pharoh and his army, and then they sang a song known as, The Song of Moses that included this verse: The Lord is my strength and song, and He has become my salvation; This is my God, and I will praise Him... (Exod. 15:2), and concludes with these words: The Lord shall reign forever and ever (15:18). The second feast is the one Jesus celebrated with His disciples on the eve of His crucifixion and death. Like Moses and the Hebrews before, Jesus and His disciples sat at a table to the feast of the Passover. During the meal, Jesus and his disciples no doubt recited or even sang the Song of Moses: The Lord is my strength and song, and He has become my salvation... There were four cups that the disciples drank from during the Passover which were, The cup of sanctification (holiness) to start the celebration and a reminder of the holiness of God. The cup of salvation (deliverance) symbolizing Gods deliverance which was drunk after the retelling of the Exodus story. The cup of redemption (blessing), which was drunk after the meal which represented Gods act of redeeming Israel. The cup of glory (praise) which was drunk at the very end representing the future redemption and coming of the Messiah. It was this cup that Jesus said, Drink from it, all of you; for this is My blood of the covenant, which is being poured out for many for forgiveness of sins.... I will not drink of this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it with you, new, in My Fathers kingdom (Matt. 26:26-29). After that feast, Jesus atoned for sin on the cross and then defeated the curse of sin and death by rising on the third day. Just before He died on the cross, He declared: It is finished (John 19:30)! The third feast has not happened yet, and we learn of it in Revelation 19:7-10; it is the Marriage feast we will celebrate with Jesus as His Bride. I believe that at this coming feast Jesus will pick up the fourth cup and drink it with us. Do you know what will come after that feast? The defeat of the nations gathered against Jesus and the final defeat of Satan. According to Revelation 15, do you know what song all of heaven will sing on that day? Here is what we are told: And they sang the song of Moses, the bond-servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, saying, Great and marvelous are Your works, Lord God, the Almighty; Righteous and true are Your ways, King of the nations! Who will not fear You, Lord, and glorify Your name? For You alone are holy; For all the nations will come and worship before You, For Your righteous acts have been revealed. (Rev. 15:34) So, can you guess what comes after the banquet prepared before His people in the presence of our enemies in Psalm 23:5? You guessed it! What comes after is the triumph of the Lamb of God over all that stands against those whom He has redeemed! [1] J. R. R. Tolkien. On Fairy Stories (1939). [2] J. Josh Smith and Daniel L. Akin, Exalting Jesus in Psalms 150, ed. David Platt, Daniel L. Akin, and Tony Merida, Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary (Nashville, TN: Holman Reference, 2022), 175. [3] David Gibson, The Lord of Psalm 23: Jesus Our Shepherd, Companion, and Host (Wheaton, IL: Crossway, 2023), 90.

This sermon from Malachi 1:6–2:9 challenges us to examine whether our worship is wholehearted or half-hearted, like the Israelites who dishonored God by offering second-rate sacrifices. It reminds us that God desires our best—not what's convenient—and that true worship flows from a heart anchored in His love. Through Christ, our Great High Priest, we are called to repent and offer sincere, devoted worship in response to His mercy.

How can you be considered dead to the law while still being alive and breathing? In the ninth episode of "The Cross," Duane Sheriff explains that a transformation occurs during salvation. Believers die to the law and become united with Christ. Through Christ's death and resurrection, they are freed from sin and the law, enabling them to serve God through grace and faith rather than legalistic obedience.In Romans 7, Paul uses the marriage analogy to illustrate our new covenant with Christ. Just as death releases us from the bonds of marriage, Christ's death on the cross has freed us from our 'marriage' to sin and the law. This freedom allows us to be 'married' to Christ and live in a new relationship of grace rather than legalism.Click for FREE offer ➡️https://pastorduane.com/the-cross/

From the sealed tomb to the Risen King, this message explores how Jesus' resurrection is the ultimate reversal of sin, death, shame, and defeat. What seemed final was just the beginning. Through Christ, everything changed.

Sermon Summary:This week, we began our five-week "ROOTED" series by examining the fundamental question of identity: who are we at our core? Drawing from Colossians 2:6-10, we explored how our true identity must be rooted in Christ rather than in conditional identities offered by our culture. Just as olive trees in Gethsemane have extensive root systems that allow them to regenerate even after being cut down, our spiritual lives depend on what lies beneath the surface.We discovered that the identity God gives us is secure and unconditional—we are valuable image-bearers (Genesis 1:26-27), purposeful partners in God's restoration plan, and deeply loved children adopted into God's family (Ephesians 1:4-5). In contrast, our culture bombards us with conditional identities based on performance, appearance, achievements, relationships, or interests. These create deep insecurity because they can be lost at any moment.Throughout Scripture, we see God working to restore our true identity. In Hosea, God transforms people from "Not my loved one" to "My loved one." Through Christ, we experience the ultimate identity transformation from outsiders to insiders, from nobodies to somebodies, from servants to sons and daughters of the King.John Newton's journey from slave trader to abolitionist illustrates how embracing our identity in Christ is sometimes a process rather than an instant change. His story reminds us that our pasts don't determine our identity.To live from this secure identity, we recommended two practical steps: daily Scripture meditation (focusing on verses about our identity in Christ) and community confirmation through Table Groups where others can remind us of who we are when we forget. When we're secure in our God-given identity, we become a church where people don't have to put on a show, where being real isn't scary, and where mistakes don't define us.URF WEBSITE: ➤ http://www.urfellowship.comSOCIALS: ➤ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/urfellowship/➤ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/urfellowship

"Which chair are you sitting in? Friend of God Acquaintance of God Enemy of God Joshua challenged the Israelites to choose whom they would serve. Today, that choice is yours.The Friend's chair offers intimacy, purpose, and divine friendship. The Acquaintance's chair is comfortable but spiritually stagnant. The Enemy's chair leads to separation from God.But here's the good news: Through Christ, you can change chairs!"While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." - Romans 5:8Where will you sit today? The choice is yours, but eternity hangs in the balance.

"Which chair are you sitting in? Friend of God Acquaintance of God Enemy of God Joshua challenged the Israelites to choose whom they would serve. Today, that choice is yours.The Friend's chair offers intimacy, purpose, and divine friendship. The Acquaintance's chair is comfortable but spiritually stagnant. The Enemy's chair leads to separation from God.But here's the good news: Through Christ, you can change chairs!"While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." - Romans 5:8Where will you sit today? The choice is yours, but eternity hangs in the balance.

The sermon focuses on Ephesians 2:11-13, discussing how Paul reminds the Gentiles of their former state - separated from Christ, excluded from citizenship in Israel, and without hope. Through Christ's blood, their situation was completely reversed, gaining citizenship in heaven, hope, and a relationship with God. The sermon emphasizes the importance of remembering our former state to maintain our love for Jesus and not become prideful in our spiritual gifts or 'craftsmanship.' Key Verses Ephesians 2:11-13 2 Corinthians 12:7-9 Revelation 2:2-5

Send us a textThe ancient pattern of temptation that led to humanity's fall continues to affect us today. Dr. Papa takes us deep into Genesis 3:6, revealing how Eve's three-part temptation—finding the forbidden fruit appealing to her body, emotions, and mind—perfectly parallels the "lust of the flesh, lust of the eyes, and pride of life" described in 1 John 2:16.When Jesus came as the Second Adam, He faced these identical temptations in the wilderness. While Eve questioned and ultimately rejected God's Word, Jesus defended Himself by quoting Scripture—a powerful model for our own spiritual battles. Dr. Papa shares a thought-provoking anecdote about a plantation worker named Moses who, given an easy job with just one restriction, couldn't resist looking inside a forbidden box. This humbling story reminds us that we're likely no better than Adam when facing temptation.The consequences of Adam's sin are catastrophic—we inherit spiritual death, blindness, and bondage. Romans 5:12 tells us both sin and death entered the world through one man's disobedience. Yet there's hope! Through Christ, the Second Adam, we find the path to redemption. By recognizing our sin, repenting, and receiving Jesus as Savior, we experience the transformative power of His perfect obedience. As the Sunday school children affirm: "What can wash away my sin? Nothing but the blood of Jesus." Share this episode with someone struggling to understand how ancient spiritual truths still offer hope for today's challenges.Support the showhttps://www.jacksonfamilyministry.comhttps://bobslone.com/home/podcast-production/

The resurrection of Jesus isn't just a moment in history—it's an invitation to transformation. In this powerful Easter message, we unpack Romans 6:4 and the call to newness of life. Through Christ's death and resurrection, we're invited to die to our old ways and truly live—fully alive, fully free, and made new. You must die... So that you can truly live. Then, and only then, you can walk in newness of life. This is the hope of Easter. This is the power of the resurrection.

SERMON SUMMARY:In "The Four Gardens of Easter," we explored how the Easter story unfolds through four significant biblical gardens. We began in Eden, the original garden where humanity fell and was exiled from God's presence. Eden wasn't just a pleasant location—it was a sacred space where heaven and earth overlapped, where humans worked alongside God as gardeners to protect and preserve His creation. When sin entered, that intimate connection was broken, but God immediately planted seeds of restoration through His promise in Genesis 3:15.The second garden, Gethsemane, represents surrender. Here, Jesus reversed Adam's rebellion through submission: "Not my will, but Yours be done." We saw how surrender isn't weakness but wisdom—the pathway to resurrection. In our own lives, Gethsemane moments come when we must choose between our way and God's, ultimately determining who's truly Lord.The third garden is the resurrection garden where Jesus was buried and rose again. Mary mistook Jesus for a gardener—a beautiful mistake, as He truly is the divine Gardener bringing new life from death. The resurrection demonstrates that no situation is beyond God's power to renew. As Romans 6:4 tells us, we're united with Christ in both death and resurrection, walking in "newness of life."Finally, we glimpsed the garden city of Revelation 21-22, where heaven comes to earth. This isn't just a return to Eden but its expansion—a place where nature and culture, wilderness and civilization harmonize perfectly. Through Christ's resurrection, this future has already begun breaking into our present. As we practice noticing signs of new life, embrace the rhythms of death and resurrection, and participate in God's restoration work, we become gardeners of resurrection hope—citizens of the garden city already breaking into our world.

Our world has been experiencing a growing crisis of hope. The future seems uncertain and the present volatile. When you feel hopeless and beaten down by life, Peter reminds us that we have a God who is merciful and sees our helpless state, who has made us alive and has given us a living hope that is anchored in the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Through Christ, our eternal future is secured in the vaults of heaven, where it cannot die, fade or be corrupted.

The resurrection of Jesus Christ provides four transformative benefits for believers. Through Christ's resurrection power, we receive complete forgiveness of sins and freedom from our old nature. This power also gives believers a greater purpose focused on sharing God's message with others. Most importantly, it guarantees eternal life with God, where physical death becomes merely a transition to our heavenly home. This power, demonstrated in miracles like raising Jairus's daughter, continues to transform lives today through faith in Jesus.

Sin is real, but so is the power to overcome it. Through Christ's resurrection, we're no longer slaves to sin. Surrender to God, receive His Spirit, and live free. This was first aired on Radio HCI Today via the WeLove Radio App.

Crystal Rivers | Open Book | Apr 15, 2025 You are no longer defined by your natural bloodline, cultural background, or past mistakes. Through Jesus Christ, you've been completely transformed into a new creation with a spiritual bloodline that transcends earthly heritage. This isn't just positive thinking—it's your covenant reality. When you received Christ, a profound translation occurred. You were moved from the kingdom of darkness into God's kingdom of light. This spiritual relocation isn't just symbolic; it's the foundation of your new identity. You're now a citizen of heaven, born in Zion, with your name recorded in God's registry. This new covenant, established through Christ's blood, is superior to the old one. While the Old Testament covenant was based on fleshly commandments, yours operates by "the power of an endless life." You've been grafted into Abraham's blessings, becoming an heir to all God promised him. Instead of constantly seeking deliverance, focus on gaining knowledge of who you are in Christ. Your freedom comes through truth, not repeated deliverance sessions. This doesn't mean prayer is unnecessary—quite the opposite. Prayer should be continuous, like the incense that never stopped burning in the tabernacle. Daily affirm your covenant position. These aren't empty repetitions but powerful acknowledgments that program your subconscious with truth. Meditate on God's Word until it becomes your living reality. When you declare who you are in Christ, you're separating yourself from darkness and establishing your place in God's kingdom. Remember that Satan has been defeated. No matter what challenges you face, this truth remains unshakable. Through Christ's sacrifice, every accusation against you has been silenced. The handwriting of ordinances that was against you has been wiped out and nailed to the cross. Walk confidently in this covenant, knowing that the blood of Jesus continually speaks on your behalf. You have authority through Christ to recover everything the enemy has stolen. As you grow in knowledge and faithfulness, what seems difficult now will become increasingly natural—for you're no longer operating by human strength, but by the endless life of God within you. Follow us on Facebook & Instagram Learn more : http://caveadullam.org/ Subscribe to our Podcast on iTunes : https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Check us out on Spotify : https://open.spotify.com/show/02wUJ3W... or download the Podcast episodes for free : https://hearthis.at/caveadullam-hl/#t... Follow us on Facebook & Instagram Facebook Cave Adullam : / caveadullam.org Ministers Rest : / ministersrest Preparing His bride : / phbfellowship #STNG : / securingthenextgeneration Instagram Cave Adullam: / caveadullam #STNG : / securingthenextgeneration

In the final message of our "Spiritual Detox" series, Matthew explored the beautiful conclusion of David's prayer in Psalm 51. After examining confession and repentance in previous weeks, this sermon revealed how true spiritual restoration produces ongoing fruit in our lives. The message highlighted three dimensions of restoration that complete our spiritual renewal: Restoration Leads to Testimony (verses 13-15) - After experiencing God's cleansing, David committed to "teach transgressors your ways." True restoration naturally overflows into testimony, as we share with others the grace we've received. Like David, when we've been restored, our lips are opened to declare God's praise and invite others to experience His forgiveness. Restoration Transforms Our Worship (verses 16-17) - David recognized that God desires more than external religious observance; He wants "a broken spirit and a contrite heart." Genuine restoration changes how we approach worship, moving us beyond mere ritual to heartfelt devotion. God isn't interested in our religious performances but in our humble, honest hearts. Restoration Extends Beyond the Individual (verses 18-19) - David's prayer concluded with concern for the entire community, showing that personal renewal should impact our families, church, and broader community. Spiritual restoration isn't complete until it overflows into strengthening the community of faith around us. The message emphasized that the journey from confession through repentance to restoration brings a deep, lasting joy. Through Christ, we experience an even fuller restoration than David could imagine – not just temporary cleansing but complete transformation as new creations in Christ. This sermon completed our "Spiritual Detox" series by showing that God's restoration process doesn't just remove the negative effects of sin; it produces positive fruit in our testimony, worship, and community impact.

God's righteousness comes solely through faith in Jesus Christ, not through our own moral efforts or religious acts. The Old Testament law and prophets prepared the way for Christ by revealing God's holiness and humanity's need for a savior. Through Christ's sacrifice, believers are justified - declared innocent in God's eyes. This free gift of grace eliminates all grounds for human pride, as we contribute nothing to our own salvation. Understanding this truth leads to a life of humble gratitude and complete dependence on Christ's finished work.

Through Christ's righteousness, we are called to joy and freedom. Subscribe to daily devotions e-mails: https://wcm.link/ddsub

In this message, Pastor Mark Butler walks through the events and meaning of the crucifixion of Jesus, highlighting the significance of each statement Jesus made on the cross. He emphasizes that the death of Jesus was not an accident but a deliberate act of obedience to God's plan of redemption. Pastor Mark reflects on Jesus' forgiveness, compassion, and complete fulfillment of prophecy even in the midst of His suffering. He encourages believers to bring others to the cross, not only to receive salvation but to experience the depth of God's love, grace, and purpose. Through Christ's victory, we have forgiveness, assurance, and the power to live a transformed life.

Today we started reading the Gospel of John and saw how Jesus called his first followers.  It is evident Jesus made an immediate impact on those who met up with him starting from when Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist. John's Gospel, the last one to be written, in several parts fills in the gaps left by the first 3 Gospels.  Of course some parts overlap; taken together they provide us with a multi-dimensional picture of the life on earth of the Son of God.  As the personality of Jesus opens out to us, we see the impact he made on individuals and we see why even those sent to arrest him said, in excuse of their failure, “No one ever spoke like this man.” [7 v.46]When John the Baptist said, “Behold the Lamb of God” [1 v.36] it caused at least two to follow Jesus.  Seeing them follow Jesus perceived their character, but he also knew his Father was at work in causing this.  At the climax of his ministry he would say in prayer, “I kept them in your name, which you have given me.  I have guarded them, and not one of them is lost except the son of destruction” [17 v.12]   Judas failed to “see” who Jesus really was.In today's chapter we read how Philip told his friend Nathaniel, “We have found him of whom Moses in the Law and also in the prophets wrote, Jesus of Nazareth …” [v.45]  So they knew their Bible!  Nathaniel questions, “Can any good thing come out of Nazareth?' Philip said to him, ‘Come and see'”We cannot go and see Jesus physically (not yet!) but we can ‘Come' to God's word and after careful examination ‘See' what it really means, comparing scripture with scripture: only God's word gives us the real reason for being alive – and, wonderfully, gives us a real hope for the future.An interesting example of what God's word “inspires” us to do is in today's chapter in the book of Numbers.  We are not living under Moses' law with all its system of offerings, but we can take the lesson that “day by day … you shall offer in the morning and … you shall offer at twilight …” [28 v.3,4]Today, God fearing people should, says Paul in the letter to the Hebrews, “Through (Christ) then let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge his name.” [13 v.15]  Do your lips bear such fruit?  Have you “come” to “see” what “the Lamb of God” means in your life? Do you offer praise as a result? The older we get the more fully we should be able to “see” this.

The message of redemption is central to the New Testament—Jesus came to fulfill God's plan of salvation, paying the price for humanity's sins. Pastor Daniel Stevens explores key events, from John the Baptist's call to repentance to Jesus' life, crucifixion, and resurrection. Through Christ, God's Kingdom is revealed, offering freedom, grace, and a path to redemption for all.Jesus didn't come to condemn but to seek and save the lost. His mission was to transform hearts, moving beyond rules to a faith rooted in love and understanding. As we remember His sacrifice through Holy Communion, we embrace the true meaning of redemption—our sins aren't just forgiven, but fully paid for. Let's walk in that freedom and share this powerful truth!#JesusSaves #RedemptionRoad #PowerOfGrace #FaithInAction #NewLifeInChrist #ForgivenAndFree #KingdomCome[ Video Version ] / [ Sermon Notes ]STAY CONNECTEDSermon Podcast: https://sermons.goodhope.agInstagram: http://instagram.com/goodhopemnFacebook: http://fb.com/goodhopemn 

April 6th, 2025 | Jesus is...Sufficient | Hebrews 10:1-18In this week's episode, Pastor Todd Kaunitz continues the series by exploring Hebrews 10:1-18, where we learn the profound truth that Jesus is Sufficient. Pastor Todd walks us through the rich contrasts between the Old Testament sacrificial system and the perfect, once-for-all sacrifice of Jesus. In Hebrews 10, we discover that while the Old Testament sacrifices were a shadow pointing to something greater, Jesus is the substance—completely sufficient to forgive, transform, and secure us eternally.Pastor Todd highlights how Jesus' death and resurrection were not just historical events but the full and final solution to the problem of sin. Through Christ, we are fully forgiven, inwardly transformed, and eternally secure in God's grace. In this episode, you'll be encouraged to rest in the sufficiency of Jesus and understand how His sacrifice is more than enough to give us peace with God, transform our hearts, and ensure our salvation.Tune in to be reminded that, because of Jesus, we have everything we need—His love, power, wisdom, mercy, righteousness, grace, and goodness. Jesus is sufficient in every way, and His finished work is all we need for salvation, rest, and worship.Do you know JESUS? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nbgilmer.org/do-you-know-jesus⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Need PRAYER? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nbgilmer.org/pray⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Support through GIVING: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nbbctx.org/giving⁠

While we live as exiles in a foreign land, God does not intend for us to do so alone. Through Christ's work, God is forming a new people. In 1 Peter 2:4-10, we see the foundation, identity, and purpose of God's new people.

The message of redemption is central to the New Testament—Jesus came to fulfill God's plan of salvation, paying the price for humanity's sins. Pastor Mike Stevens explores key events, from John the Baptist's call to repentance to Jesus' life, crucifixion, and resurrection. Through Christ, God's Kingdom is revealed, offering freedom, grace, and a path to redemption for all.Jesus didn't come to condemn but to seek and save the lost. His mission was to transform hearts, moving beyond rules to a faith rooted in love and understanding. As we remember His sacrifice through Holy Communion, we embrace the true meaning of redemption—our sins aren't just forgiven, but fully paid for. Let's walk in that freedom and share this powerful truth!#JesusSaves #RedemptionRoad #PowerOfGrace #FaithInAction #NewLifeInChrist #ForgivenAndFree #KingdomCome[ Video Version ] / [ Sermon Notes ]STAY CONNECTEDSermon Podcast: https://sermons.goodhope.agInstagram: http://instagram.com/goodhopemnFacebook: http://fb.com/goodhopemn 

Crystal Rivers | Open Book | Apr 1, 2025 Your covenant with God isn't a one-sided agreement where He does everything while you passively receive. It's a relationship requiring active participation from both parties. Just as you wouldn't sign important documents without reading the terms, you must understand what you've committed to—the promises, tokens, terms, and oaths that constitute your covenant relationship. To truly know God goes beyond intellectual understanding. You cannot know someone from a distance. Draw near, enter that tent of meeting, sit in His presence. The Holy Spirit is your teacher, guiding you into all truth through intimate communion, not just during designated prayer times but in continual fellowship throughout your day. Your labor is to know God deeply—to understand He exercises loving kindness, judgment, and righteousness in the earth. His seat is the Mercy Seat, His mercy renewed daily. Before you can even use today's portion, tomorrow's fresh supply awaits. He keeps covenant and shows loyal love to thousands who love Him in return. Are you glorying in the right things? Not in wisdom, might, or riches, but in understanding and knowing the Lord. To abide in this knowledge requires judging idols of the heart—those secret compartments where rival affections compete for your devotion. Understand that Christ is not just someone you follow—He is a place you dwell in, your true inheritance. The protection promised in Psalm 91 isn't automatic but conditional on actively dwelling in the secret place, setting your love upon Him, and knowing His name. These aren't mere words to quote but conditions to fulfill. Your spiritual lineage is no longer determined by flesh and blood. Through Christ's blood, you've been liberated from every generational cycle. There is no legal ground for the enemy to stand on—those cases have been dismissed. Even if you've sold your birthright like Esau, recovery is possible when you become restless against oppression and break the yoke from your neck. True priesthood is agreement with God, but certain defects can prevent this communion: - Blindness: Unable to see what God is truly saying - Lameness: Unwilling to move forward in obedience - Disfigurement: Traumatized by past experiences - Broken hands or feet: Unable to grasp truth or walk in spiritual disciplines - Hunchback perspective: Focused on earthly gain rather than heavenly purpose - Stunted growth: Unchanged despite encounters with God - Defective vision: Operating from impure motives - Unfruitfulness: Unable to reproduce life in others The good news is that Jesus is the Great Physician who heals these defects. His signs include making the blind see, the lame walk, and bringing the dead to life. Your transformation requires more than mental assent—it demands the work of believing deeply enough that your consciousness changes. When you believe who you are in Christ, that identity becomes your reality. The unforced rhythms of grace teach you to live freely and lightly. Stop carrying yokes you weren't meant to bear. This world's best offering is death, but in Christ, you've been given life—abundant, eternal, and available now. Crystal Rivers | Open Book | Apr 1, 2025 Learn more : http://caveadullam.org/ Subscribe to our Podcast on iTunes : https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Check us out on Spotify : https://open.spotify.com/show/02wUJ3W... or download the Podcast episodes for free : https://hearthis.at/caveadullam-hl/#t... Follow us on Facebook & Instagram Facebook Cave Adullam : / caveadullam.org Ministers Rest : / ministersrest Preparing His bride : / phbfellowship #STNG : / securingthenextgeneration Instagram Cave Adullam: / caveadullam #STNG : / securingthenextgeneration

Audio Recording Audio Block Double-click here to upload or link to a .mp3. Learn more Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim ChangSermon Series: Retreat 2025Genesis 5:21-24 (ESV)21 When Enoch had lived 65 years, he fathered Methuselah. 22 Enoch walked with God after he fathered Methuselah 300 years and had other sons and daughters. 23 Thus all the days of Enoch were 365 years. 24 Enoch walked with God, and he was not, for God took him.Hebrews 11:5-6 (ESV) 5 By faith Enoch was taken up so that he should not see death, and he was not found, because God had taken him. Now before he was taken he was commended as having pleased God. 6 And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him. Prayer of ConfessionMerciful God, we confess that we have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what we have done, and by what we have left undone. We have not loved you with our whole heart and mind and strength. We have not loved our neighbors as ourselves. In your mercy forgive what we have been, help us amend what we are, and direct what we shall be, so that we may delight in your will and walk in your ways, to the glory of your holy name. Through Christ, our Lord. Amen.Read AheadIsaiah Sermon Series

Audio Recording Sermon OutlineSpeaker: Rev. Tim ChangSermon Series: Retreat 2025Genesis 5:21-24 (ESV)21 When Enoch had lived 65 years, he fathered Methuselah. 22 Enoch walked with God after he fathered Methuselah 300 years and had other sons and daughters. 23 Thus all the days of Enoch were 365 years. 24 Enoch walked with God, and he was not, for God took him.Hebrews 11:5-6 (ESV) 5 By faith Enoch was taken up so that he should not see death, and he was not found, because God had taken him. Now before he was taken he was commended as having pleased God. 6 And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him. Prayer of ConfessionMerciful God, we confess that we have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what we have done, and by what we have left undone. We have not loved you with our whole heart and mind and strength. We have not loved our neighbors as ourselves. In your mercy forgive what we have been, help us amend what we are, and direct what we shall be, so that we may delight in your will and walk in your ways, to the glory of your holy name. Through Christ, our Lord. Amen.Read AheadIsaiah Sermon Series

Paul's letter to the Ephesians reveals the radical truth that all believers—Jews and Gentiles alike—share equally in God's abundant grace and eternal inheritance. Through Christ, God has lavishly blessed us with every spiritual blessing, completely transforming our identity and purpose. As humanity finds unity in Christ, all creation itself awaits its ultimate restoration and fullness in Him.

Paul's letter to the Ephesians reveals the radical truth that all believers—Jews and Gentiles alike—share equally in God's abundant grace and eternal inheritance. Through Christ, God has lavishly blessed us with every spiritual blessing, completely transforming our identity and purpose. As humanity finds unity in Christ, all creation itself awaits its ultimate restoration and fullness in Him.

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!The paradox of Christian suffering stands at the heart of our Lenten journey. Through Christ's prediction of His Passion, we confront a profound spiritual reality: suffering, while an evil in itself, becomes transformative when embraced for the right purpose.Our natural instinct rebels against pain. Modern society encourages us to eliminate all discomfort, creating what we might call an "effeminate" mindset—not feminine, but comfort-seeking and pain-avoiding. Yet Christ's invitation remains unchanged: "If anyone wishes to come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me." This call often confounds us as much as it did the apostles who abandoned Jesus despite His clear warnings.Navigating between extremes helps us understand suffering's true purpose. On one hand, prosperity gospel teachings suggest Christians shouldn't suffer because Christ suffered for them—missing our participation in redemption. On the other, Catholics can sometimes appear to value suffering for its own sake, which misses the point entirely. As Father Troadec reminds us, suffering "does not deserve to be loved for its own sake" but only as a means to "the redemption and sanctification of souls." This transforms our trials from meaningless pain into spiritual currency, for "souls are not given away. They are bought at the price of suffering."Perhaps most practically, today's meditation challenges us to stop complaining—especially about trivial matters like weather—while fellow Christians worldwide face genuine persecution. Our complaints reveal our rejection of the Cross rather than its embrace. By accepting small sufferings without grumbling, we train ourselves for weightier crosses ahead and participate in Christ's redemptive work. What suffering might you offer up today for the salvation of souls?Support the showSponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED25 at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/Also sponsored by Quest Pipe Co. Get your St Isaac Jogues pipe here: https://questpipeco.com/discount/Amish?redirect=%2Fproducts%2Fst-isaac-jogues-limited-edition********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssSpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylonRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

Our topic for this episode is God's greatest gift to us, grace. I've preached a lot of sermons on grace, I've written a few books on grace, but I never get tired of talking about this gift of being made right with God through his grace. As perfectly summarized in 1 Corinthians 5:18-21, "All this is from God. Through Christ, God made peace between us and himself, and God gave us the work of telling everyone about the peace we can have with him. God was in Christ, making peace between the world and himself. In Christ, God did not hold the world guilty of its sins. And he gave us this message of peace. So we have been sent to speak for Christ. It is as if God is calling to you through us. We speak for Christ when we beg you to be at peace with God. Christ had no sin, but God made him become sin so that in Christ we could become right with God." Watch the Ark in the Darkness HERE. Find out more from Hope For The Heart Here. Learn more about The Chosen HERE.

Our topic for this episode is God's greatest gift to us, grace. I've preached a lot of sermons on grace, I've written a few books on grace, but I never get tired of talking about this gift of being made right with God through his grace. As perfectly summarized in 1 Corinthians 5:18-21, "All this is from God. Through Christ, God made peace between us and himself, and God gave us the work of telling everyone about the peace we can have with him. God was in Christ, making peace between the world and himself. In Christ, God did not hold the world guilty of its sins. And he gave us this message of peace. So we have been sent to speak for Christ. It is as if God is calling to you through us. We speak for Christ when we beg you to be at peace with God. Christ had no sin, but God made him become sin so that in Christ we could become right with God." Watch the Ark in the Darkness HERE. Find out more from Hope For The Heart Here. Learn more about The Chosen HERE.

In honor of Valentine's Day, let's explore a profound question from the Christian catechism: What does God's law require? The answer lies in two simple yet powerful commandments, but first, let me share a timely story about the real Saint Valentine.The True Story of Saint ValentineIn the third century, during the reign of Emperor Claudius, a priest named Valentine took a bold stand for love. While Claudius was sending young men to die in meaningless wars, Valentine secretly married Christian couples, knowing that married men were exempt from military service. This act of defiance saved countless lives and allowed young families to flourish. Valentine's commitment to love ultimately cost him his life – he was executed in his 40s for his actions and attempts to evangelize Claudius himself.This story perfectly illustrates the two fundamental commandments that encompass all of God's law.The Two Great CommandmentsAs Jesus teaches in Matthew 22:37-40, all of God's law – every command and prophetic word – can be distilled into two essential principles:* Love God with all your heart, soul, and mind* Love your neighbor as yourselfWhat Does It Mean to Love God?Loving God means:* Enjoying His presence* Obeying His commands* Putting Him first in every area of life* Starting each day by asking: "Is this action motivated by love for God, or love for something else?"What Does It Mean to Love Your Neighbor?The command to "love your neighbor as yourself" isn't about self-love as a prerequisite – it's about extending the same care and consideration to others that we naturally give ourselves. Just as we instinctively seek our own wellbeing, we're called to actively pursue the happiness and growth of others, even when it requires difficult choices.The Heart of the MatterHere's the challenging truth: we can't fulfill these commands on our own. Our natural state is one of selfishness – just watch any baby and you'll see this truth in action. That's why the story of God's law doesn't end with commands, but with Christ.The same God who gave the law on Mount Sinai later sent His Son to a different mountain – Calvary – not just to give us the law, but to fulfill it perfectly on our behalf. Through Christ's sacrifice, we receive both forgiveness for our failures and a new heart capable of truly loving God and others.Practical ApplicationThis transformation shows up in everyday moments:* In how we start our day, choosing to put God first* In how we handle difficult conversations* In how we make decisions that might cause temporary discomfort but lead to long-term growth* In how we extend grace to others, just as we've received graceClosing ThoughtsThe requirements of God's law – loving Him and loving others – aren't just rules to follow. They're an invitation to experience life as it was meant to be lived. Through Christ, we receive the power to move beyond our natural selfishness and into a life marked by genuine love for God and neighbor.As we celebrate Valentine's Day, let's remember the priest who gave his life demonstrating these twin loves, and more importantly, the God who makes such love possible through Christ.This post is adapted from Episode 7 of our weekly catechism series, where we explore the core doctrines of the Christian faith. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amenpodcast.substack.com

Click here for the DRB Daily Sign Up form! TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: Leviticus 1-3; Acts 13 Click HERE to give! Get Free App Here! One Year Bible Podcast: Join Hunter and Heather Barnes on 'The Daily Radio Bible' for a daily 20-minute spiritual journey. Engage with scripture readings, heartfelt devotionals, and collective prayers that draw you into the heart of God's love. Embark on this year-long voyage through the Bible, and let each day's passage uplift and inspire you. TODAY'S EPISODE: Welcome to the Daily Radio Bible! In today's episode, host Hunter guides us through an insightful journey in the scriptures on this 37th day of our Bible reading adventure. We embark on a new challenge as we delve into the Book of Leviticus, along with passages from Acts Chapter 13. Hunter provides thoughtful reflections on the sacrificial system found in Leviticus, emphasizing how these ancient practices were a foreshadowing of the ultimate sacrifice made by Jesus. In Acts, we follow Paul and Barnabas on their missionary journey, witnessing the spread of the gospel and the diverse reactions it receives—some welcome it with joy, while others resist. Hunter reminds us of the core message of grace, urging us to rest in the work Christ has already accomplished. Throughout the episode, we're invited to engage in prayer, seeking God's guidance and peace for ourselves and the world. Tune in and be encouraged as we explore these themes together. Remember, you are loved, and join us again for tomorrow's reading. TODAY'S DEVOTION: Wherever the gospel is preached, it finds its listeners. Some receive it with joy, others reject it. This timeless message of Christ and His saving grace is sent out to the world, capturing hearts like wildfire, while encountering resistance along the way. Paul and Barnabas ventured forth with this message, tracing the lineage of faith back through Abraham, Moses, and the journey of God's people. This message, though ancient and familiar, unveils God's plan through Jesus, the Messiah. Through Christ, we see the fullness of God's promise—a life lived in perfect love, fulfilling the law for us. His sacrifice on the cross becomes our victory, a substitute for our shortcomings. He died for all, and rose for all, offering freedom from sin and the grave. This new life in Christ is a gift, an invitation to live boldly in His power and grace. However, resistance remains. For some, it's rooted in piety—trusting their efforts rather than God's grace. It's a struggle not exclusive to the past or to one group; many of us wrestle with relying on our deeds instead of resting in Christ's finished work. Frustration can creep in when we lean on self-effort to earn God's favor, yet the gospel frees us from this burden. Paul's fervor conveyed that right standing with God is not earned but given through belief in Jesus. This life is now ours to embrace: living in God's joy and strength, rooted in the assurance of His presence. This is the call—to receive and rest in the truth of Christ in us, rather than resisting the gravity of His love. That's a prayer that I have for my own soul today. That's a prayer that I have for my family, for my wife, and my daughters, and my son. And that's a prayer that I have for you. May it be so. TODAY'S PRAYERS: Lord God Almighty and everlasting father you have brought us in safety to this new day preserve us with your Mighty power that we might not fall into sin or be overcome by adversity. And in all we do, direct us to the fulfilling of your purpose  through Jesus Christ Our Lord amen.   Oh God you have made of one blood all the peoples of the earth and sent your blessed son to preach peace to those who are far and those who are near. Grant that people everywhere may seek after you, and find you. Bring the nations into your fold, pour out your Spirit on all flesh, and hasten the coming of your kingdom through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.   And now Lord,  make me an instrument of your peace.  Where there is hatred let me sow love. Where there is injury, pardon.  Where there is doubt, faith. Where there is despair, hope.  Where there is darkness, light.  And where there is sadness,  Joy.  Oh Lord grant that I might not seek to be consoled as to console. To be understood as to understand, to be loved as to love.  For it is in the giving that we receive, in the pardoning that we are pardoned, it is in the dying that we are born unto eternal life.  Amen And now as our Lord has taught us we are bold to pray... Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our tresspasses as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not unto temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the Kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. Loving God, we give you thanks for restoring us in your image. And nourishing us with spiritual food, now send us forth as forgiven people, healed and renewed, that we may proclaim your love to the world, and continue in the risen life of Christ.  Amen.  OUR WEBSITE: www.dailyradiobible.com We are reading through the New Living Translation.   Leave us a voicemail HERE: https://www.speakpipe.com/dailyradiobible Subscribe to us at YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Dailyradiobible/featured OTHER PODCASTS: Listen with Apple Podcast DAILY BIBLE FOR KIDS DAILY PSALMS DAILY PROVERBS DAILY LECTIONARY DAILY CHRONOLOGICAL