Podcast appearances and mentions of tim keller

Megan Basham and Jon Harris discuss Gavin Ortlund's recent defense of Tim Keller's "Third Way" contextualization philosophy. Order Against the Waves: Againstthewavesbook.comCheck out Jon's Music: jonharristunes.comTo Support the Podcast: https://www.worldviewconversation.com/support/Become a Patronhttps://www.patreon.com/jonharrispodcastFollow Jon on Twitter: https://twitter.com/jonharris1989Follow Jon on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jonharris1989/Our Sponsors:* Check out TruDiagnostic and use my code HARRIS for a great deal: https://www.trudiagnostic.comSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/conversations-that-matter8971/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Episode Summary: Softening truth to increase Christian cultural influence is simply quiet compromise. In this episode, Luke and Scott Allen discuss Tim Keller, Charlie Kirk, and the critical question: how should Christians actively engage a post-Christian culture without losing their convictions? They dive into the rise of “winsome third wayism” in evangelical circles—why it captured the imagination of Christian elites and why it has faltered when culture demanded moral clarity.The hosts contrast cautious, approval-seeking engagement with a bolder model that speaks truth in love to every sphere—justice, freedom, sexuality, and policy—because all areas of culture matter to God and should be addressed from a biblical worldview. If you've wrestled with how to remain gracious without compromising clarity, this conversation points the way toward faithful, courageous cultural engagement.Who is Disciple Nations Alliance (DNA)? Since 1997, DNA's mission has been to equip followers of Jesus around the globe with a biblical worldview, empowering them to build flourishing families, communities, and nations.

In this powerful episode, Heather Creekmore continues October’s "Fear Free Fall” series by digging deep into the often-hidden fear of rejection and how it influences our lives. She unpacks how perfectionism and people-pleasing are tightly related to our need to feel accepted and loved. Through personal stories, relatable examples, and biblical truth, Heather unravels the underlying self-protective strategies we adopt—and how the gospel offers real freedom and grace. Key Topics Covered: What is the Fear of Rejection?Heather explores how this fear drives us and manifests as perfectionism and people-pleasing. She explains that these are self-protective strategies formed by our desire for secure love, belonging, and worth. Perfectionism:Often, we think, “If I get it right, then I’ll be enough.” Heather shares a personal story from college when a single missed typo made her feel immense shame, showing how perfectionism can lead to exhaustion and shame rather than peace. People-Pleasing:The fear that “If I make everyone happy, I’ll be safe.” Heather discusses how people-pleasing is not true peacekeeping or biblical peacemaking and how it can even impact our ability to follow God’s call if the opinions of others control us. Where Does This Come From?Heather highlights how these tendencies usually aren’t intentional—they’re often formed in childhood, at school, or through life experiences that taught us we’d be safer if we kept everyone happy or never made mistakes. How It Affects Others:Unchecked, perfectionism and people-pleasing can also lead us to have unrealistic expectations of others, continuing the cycle for those around us. The Gospel’s Answer:True freedom is found not in earning love and acceptance from people (or God), but in embracing grace. Heather reminds us that Jesus took on ultimate rejection so we can be fully accepted by God, no matter how we perform. A Challenge to Listeners:Heather encourages us to check our motives—are we striving for approval from people or resting in God’s approval? She challenges listeners to shift their perspective from a “people-big, God-small” view to a “God-big, people-small” mindset for greater confidence and peace. Memorable Quotes: “Perfectionism is a fear of inadequacy dressed up as excellence.” “People pleasing is not biblical peacemaking—it’s a form of self-protection.” “You can never be perfect or please everyone, but you are already fully accepted in Jesus.” “Freedom comes when you realize you can’t earn grace—it's a gift.” Resources & Next Steps: Visit heathercreekmore.com for free resources, courses, coaching, and Heather’s books Sign up for the free 10-day encouragement email series! Learn more about the In His Image Conference in Dallas, TX (November 15th) — details in show notes If you struggle with people-pleasing, perfectionism, or fear of rejection, this episode is for you. Learn how to find freedom and confidence in who God says you are—not in what you do or how others respond. Thanks for listening to Compared to Who? Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What happens when faith collides with a world changing faster than ever? In this episode, Michael Keller and Jonathan Youssef wrestle honestly with AI, digital isolation, and the fractured search for meaning, offering real hope and practical wisdom for anyone longing for true connection and honest community with grace at the center.​Jonathan and Michael dig into the spiritual and cultural shifts created by technological disruption and social fragmentation. They share about the challenges facing the Church and practical ideas for building communities of grace where people can wrestle with big questions, doubts, and their own brokenness.​Listen to Part 1 of this Candid Conversation with Michael Keller.Follow Candid Conversations on social media:Instagram: @candidpodTikTok: @officiallycandidpodYouTube: @CandidPodSubscribe & Share:If this episode inspired you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others.CANDID LISTENER SURVEYWe love bringing you honest, hope-filled conversations about the Christian faith, and we'd love your feedback. We've compiled a short listener survey to help us plan future episodes you'll love. Will you take a couple of minutes to complete it today? Your voice will help shape what's next! Take the Survey Now

Send us a textAs evil intensifies and ramps up, we have seen Christians divided in which is the  most effective way forward for the Church to evangelize. The three main camps  are Kellerism, Kirkism, and Christian Nationalism. Kellerism embraces Tim Keller's strategy of being winsome and unoffensive to those we are witnessing to; Reconstructive Christian Nationalism calls for countries to codify the Old Testament civil Law as national law and put all citizens under it; ,and Kirkism bids the church and Christians to engage and influence the culture and politics by bolding and unapologetically proclaiming the Truth of God's Word. Which way is best????Thanks for tuning in! Be sure to check out everything Proverbs 9:10 on our website, www.proverbs910ministries.com! You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Rumble, YouTube, Twitter, Truth Social, and Gettr!

In our October 12 Sunday gathering, we kick off a new series about what Christians believe and what the Bible is all about, and we start with belief #1, God is a transcendent being who has made himself known. This week's discussion. questions are below: When people today hear the word “Christian,” what kinds of assumptions do you think they make? Which of those assumptions are true, and which are misunderstandings? If someone asked you, “What is Christianity all about?” how would you answer right now, in one or two sentences? Why do you think so many people (even lifelong churchgoers) struggle to summarize what the Bible is really about? The sermon proposes seven core beliefs that summarize the story of Scripture. Which one stands out to you most, and why? How does seeing the Bible as one unified story leading to Jesus change the way you read or understand individual stories—especially the strange or difficult ones? Have you ever been taught a version of Christianity that focused only on “going to heaven when you die”? How does the idea that heaven is coming to earth shift your understanding of what God is doing? Tim Keller said, “There is a thirst in the human heart that will not be denied... that thirst is for transcendence.” Where do you see that thirst showing up in our culture today? How have you seen people try to fill it apart from God? Do you agree that every person has a “God-shaped hole,” as Blaise Pascal put it? What evidence do you see of that in your own life or in the world around you?

A union boss tried to turn a beloved New Mexico tradition into a political weapon—and we're not having it. We unpack the “prison patch” smear aimed at McCall's Pumpkin Patch, separate rumor from reality, and talk about what's really at stake when activists target family businesses to score points. It's a case study in how online outrage travels, how local news stepped in to correct it, and why communities should back builders over destroyers.From there, we head into the Albuquerque mayoral race, where crime and homelessness dominate the polls. We analyze Darren White's hard-hitting ad, Tim Keller's incumbent playbook, and why a “good ideas, better execution” message from Alex Ubayas falls flat when voters are begging for real change. If you want to win, you have to talk about what people feel on their block—safety, public order, and visible disorder—and offer concrete steps, not abstractions.Then a wild media moment: Katie Porter's interview meltdown and the aftermath. We walk through how a few minutes of friction with a local reporter triggered a prediction market swing, revived old staff clips, and raised the bigger question—can you govern if you can't handle follow-ups? We also scan tight races in New Jersey and Virginia, where endorsements, standards, and cost-of-living politics are reshaping odds. Finally, we tackle the government shutdown, the Senate math behind it, and a heated JD Vance–George Stephanopoulos exchange that spotlights the gap between media priorities and what families are actually dealing with.Stick around for Sunday Drone Day: soaring fall colors over Angel Fire, a reminder of the place we're all trying to protect. If you value straight talk on local politics, media accountability, and the small businesses that hold communities together, tap follow, share with a friend, and leave a quick review—what story grabbed you most this week?Website: https://www.nodoubtaboutitpodcast.com/Twitter: @nodoubtpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/NoDoubtAboutItPod/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markronchettinm/?igshid=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D

From bipartisan cooperation to prayerful gratitude, Senator Kirsten Gillibrand joins Drew Collins to reflect on joy, wisdom, and love of enemy in a divided nation—offering a vision of public service grounded in the way of Jesus.“Jesus defied expectations—he welcomed the stranger, he fed the hungry, he loved his enemies.”Together they discuss the role of faith in public life amid deep division. Reflecting on Jesus's call to love our enemies and the Apostle Paul's exhortation to “rejoice always,” she describes how Scripture, prayer, and gratitude sustain her work in the U.S. Senate.From bipartisan collaboration to the challenges of resisting an authoritarian executive branch, Gillibrand speaks candidly about the challenges of embodying gentleness and compassion in politics, consistently seeking spiritual solidarity with colleagues across the aisle. Drawing on Philippians 4, she testifies to the peace of God that transcends understanding, revealing a vision of political life animated by faith, courage, and joy—all in the spirit of hope, humility, and the enduring call to love in public service.Episode Highlights“Faith is the greatest gift you could have. It grounds me; it reminds me why I'm here and what my life is supposed to be about.”“We can disagree about public policy, but we don't have to be in disagreement as people.”“Jesus defied expectations—he welcomed the stranger, he fed the hungry, he loved his enemies.”“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again, rejoice… let your gentleness be evident to all.”“I pray for wisdom every day. Scripture tells us if you ask for it, you will receive it—and boy do I need it.”About Kirsten GillibrandKirsten Gillibrand is the U.S. Senator from New York, serving since 2009. A graduate of Dartmouth College and UCLA Law School, she has focused her legislative career on ethics reform, national security, and family policy. Grounded in her Christian faith, she seeks to model bipartisan leadership and compassionate public service. For more information, visit gillibrand.senate.gov.Helpful Links and ResourcesPhilippians 4:4–9 (Bible Gateway)Redeemer Presbyterian Church (Tim Keller)Gospel in Life Podcast (Tim Keller)Chaplain Barry C. Black – U.S. Senate ChaplainKirsten Gillibrand, Official Senate PageFaith and DivisionGillibrand describes America's current political and social moment as deeply divided, weakened by retreat into ideological corners.“We're stronger when we work together—when people love their neighbors and care as if they were their own family.”Faith offers grounding amid chaos; social media and tribalism breed extremism and hate.Following Jesus in Public LifeFaith clarifies her purpose and sustains her in political life.“It makes everything make sense to me.”Living “out of step with what's cool, trendy, or powerful” defines Christian vocation in public office.Bipartisanship and Common GroundWorks with Senators Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) on crypto regulation, Ted Cruz (R-TX) on first responder support, and Josh Hawley (R-MO) on stock trading bans.“If I can restore some healthcare or Meals on Wheels, I'll go that extra mile to do that good thing.”Collaboration as moral practice—faith expressed through policy partnership.Loving Enemies and Welcoming StrangersDraws parallels between Jesus's ministry and bipartisan cooperation.“He would sooner convert a Roman soldier than go to war with him.”“If I went to a Democratic rally and said, ‘love your enemy,' I don't know how that would go over.”Testifying to FaithWeekly Bible study with Senate Chaplain Barry C. Black.“He told us: Testify to your blessings. Share what God is doing in your life.”Posts daily blessings on social media, mixing joy and public witness.The Faith of DemocratsCounters perception that Democrats lack faith: “There are more ordained ministers and theology degrees on our side than people realize.”Mentions Senators Tim Kaine, Chris Coons, Raphael Warnock, Amy Klobuchar, and Lisa Blunt Rochester, all of whom regularly meet and discuss their faith and its impact on public office.Faith and Policy DifferencesOn reproductive rights and LGBTQ equality: “It's not the government's job to discriminate.”Frames Matthew 25 as central to Democratic faith—feeding, caring, welcoming.Compares differing theological interpretations of government's role in justice.Joy and GratitudePhilippians 4 as daily anchor: “Rejoice in the Lord always… let your gentleness be evident to all.”Keeps a five-year daily gratitude journal: “You rewire your brain to look for what is praiseworthy.”Rejoicing doesn't deny suffering; it transforms it into solidarity.Prayer and WisdomPrays constantly for family, colleagues, nation, and reconciliation.“Wisdom's usually the one thing I ask for myself.”Prayer as discernment: deciding “where to put my voice, effort, and relationships.”Production NotesThis podcast featured Senator Kirsten Gillibrand.Edited and Produced by Evan Rosa.Hosted by Evan Rosa.Production Assistance by Alexa Rollow and Emily Brookfield.A Production of the Yale Center for Faith & Culture at Yale Divinity School (faith.yale.edu/about)Support For the Life of the World podcast by giving to the Yale Center for Faith & Culture: faith.yale.edu/give

Have you ever hit the milestone you were chasing — the weight loss, the career win, the personal record — and still felt empty? In this episode, I reflect on Tim Keller's teaching from Ecclesiastes and share how it mirrors my own journey with purpose and identity. We'll talk about the burden of achievement, the trap of comparison, and why success without deeper grounding always feels like “chasing the wind.” Most importantly, I'll share how I've learned to shift from proving myself through outcomes to living with purpose and striving for the right things.   Tim Keller's sermon: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/timothy-keller-sermons-podcast-by-gospel-in-life/id352660924?i=1000728203332     FREEBIES & COACHING Fat Loss Starter Kit: https://ahubnutrition.myflodesk.com/fatlossstarterkit No Brainer Fat Loss Checklist: https://ahubnutrition.myflodesk.com/fatlosschecklist 1:1 Coaching Application: https://www.ahubnutrition.com/coachingapplication Join the email list: https://ahubnutrition.myflodesk.com/x8208kqszl FIND ME ON IG: https://www.instagram.com/ashleighmariehubbard/  IG: https://www.instagram.com/ahubnutrition/  IG: https://www.instagram.com/thewellnessdiariespodcast/

“We are wounded in isolation and we are healed in community.”— Tim KellerWhat does it mean to be made in the image of a Triune God-in-Relationship?What if relational connection is the heartbeat of the with God life?What is a relational model for becoming a king or a queen, one who can steward from wholehearted maturity?We must begin by recovering our hidden life in God—the joyful intimacy available with the Father, Jesus, and Holy Spirit. Drawing our life from the Life of God, we move into relationships with our spouse, children, peers, and families—both our biological and kingdom families.Right where we find ourselves. On this day. In these circumstances. Perhaps even through these circumstances, God offers a creative invitation to shepherd us in such a way that the things which matter most are no longer at the mercy of the things which matter least.Join Cherie and me as we take a deeper cut into a relational rule of life and explore generative steps toward arranging our days so that more and more of us can be reattached to the Vine of Life.It's all been prologue. The best is yet to come.For the Kingdom,Morgan and Cherie

Can faith survive doubt, family legacy, and the rush of modern technology? In this compelling conversation, Dr. Michael Keller, pastor of Redeemer Lincoln Square, theologian, council member of the Gospel Coalition and a Fellow for the Keller Center for Apologetics. He is also the son of the late Tim Keller. In this conversation, Michael describes his journey from inherited belief to authentic, grace-filled faith. From questioning Christianity amid the pressures of being a pastor's child, to encounters with Buddhism, to the powerful pull of the gospel, Michael's story is honest and deeply relatable.Host Jonathan Youssef joins Michael for a candid discussion on finding true freedom in faith, the humility of repentance, and how artificial intelligence is shaping the way we engage with theology today. Whether wrestling with doubt, digital disruption, or the challenge of living authentically, this conversation offers fresh encouragement for navigating faith in a rapidly changing world.CANDID LISTENER SURVEYWe love bringing you honest, hope-filled conversations about the Christian faith, and we'd love your feedback. We've compiled a short listener survey to help us plan future episodes you'll love. Will you take a couple of minutes to complete it today? Your voice will help shape what's next! Take the Survey NowFollow Candid Conversations on social media:Instagram: @candidpodTikTok: @officiallycandidpodYouTube: @CandidPodSubscribe & Share:If this episode inspired you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others.

What makes a faithful sermon? Is it verse-by-verse exposition, topical teaching, or something deeper? In this episode of Practically Pastoring, Frank sits down with Michael Moore. A bi-vocational pastor and the creator behind Honest Youth Pastor. We talk about sermon prep, youth ministry curriculum, and the role of AI in preaching.Michael shares his framework for sermon reviews, how pastors should think about using curriculum, and why tribalism in the church can cloud our judgment of good preaching. Plus, we dive into the realities of critique, feedback, and how pastors can sharpen their sermons with humility and accountability.If you've ever wrestled with sermon prep, preaching philosophy, or the future of pastoring in a digital age—this episode is for you.⏱️ Timestamps00:00 – Intro & Michael Moore (“Honest Youth Pastor”)01:00 – What makes a faithful sermon? Exegesis vs. exposition07:20 – Why young preachers copy personalities over doing the hard work09:50 – Youth pastors & curriculum: when is it helpful, when is it harmful?17:10 – AI in preaching: ethical use or dangerous shortcut?23:30 – The “taco illustration” for sermon prep & AI31:00 – The importance of real feedback vs. AI feedback33:00 – Michael's documentaries on pastors & pushback he's received38:40 – Pastors people praise vs. pastors people roast (Russell Johnson, Tim Keller, etc.)47:20 – The problem of tribalism in church circles50:00 – How to create a sermon feedback system in smaller churches57:20 – Why thick skin & structured critique are essential01:01:20 – Final thoughts + Michael's plugs

Cooper and Matthew talk about the freedom of self forgetfulness by discussing the Freedom of Self-Forgetfulness, by Tim Keller.FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM:@bookinitpodCHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE:https://412podcasting.comSUPPORT US HERE:https://patreon.com/bookinit  TEXT US HERE!

This two-part video series provides a deep historical analysis of Moralistic Therapeutic Deism (MTD), tracing its ingredients from 19th-century New England intellectual and social revolutions to its status as America's de facto civic religion. We argue that MTD collapsed when the sexual and moral revolutions forced a devastating fracture between its Christian heritage and its core principles of self-actualization and benevolence, leading to the polarized political landscape of today.Moralist Therapeutic Deism Part 1 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5eHYMzanOvs&t=4679s @triggerpod   @InterestingTimesNYT   @JonathanPageau   @PaulVanderKlay 00:00:00 - Introduction and Recap00:10:07 - MTD, Chicago, and Obama00:13:00 - Cornell as Microcosm00:25:15 - Tim Keller on programatic secularism00:35:55 - Mainline Christianity00:37:45 - Wokeness and MTD00:47:05 - MTD and Partisanship00:49:20 - Arena vs Agent00:51:00 - Donald Trump 00:56:15 - Nationalism vs Globalism01:03:40 - Who killed MTD?01:05:55 - Competing Arenas01:08:25 - The future of Christian NationalismIn this video I mention:Aaron Renn, Abraham Lincoln, Albert Baker, Alfred, Allen C. Guelzo, Amos, Andrew Jackson Davis, Ann Lee, Anagarika Dharmapala, Arthur Conan Doyle, Athanasius, Barack Obama, Benjamin Franklin, Billy Graham, Black Lives Matter, Bud, Buddha, Calvin, Cathleen Falsani, Catherine Fox, Charles B. Rosna, Charles Carroll Bonney, Charles Haddon Spurgeon, Charlie Kirk, Christian Smith, Christopher Pearse Cranch, Clement of Alexandria, Conrad Grebel, Constantine, David Bentley Hart, Deepak Chopra, Donahoe, Donald Trump, Eddie Lincoln, Eleanor Roosevelt, Elijah Muhammad, Eliott, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Elizabeth Keckley, Ellen Todd, Emilie Todd Helm, Emanuel Swedenborg, Epictetus, Erica Kirk, Ernst Troeltsch, Ezra Klein, Fanny Hayes Platt, Faustus Socinus, Finney, Fox Sisters, Franz Anton Mesmer, Fred Shuttlesworth, Frederick the Wise, Friedrich Nietzsche, Galen, George Barna, George Fox, George W. Bush, Gregory of Nyssa, Henry Clay, Henry David Thoreau, Henry James, H. P. Blavatsky, H. Richard Niebuhr, Harriet Beecher Stowe, Harold Ockenga, Harry Emerson Fosdick, Helen Schucman, Hosea Ballou, J. Gresham Machen, Jacob Blake, James, James Comey, James Lindsay, James Russell Lowell, Jared Sparks, Jean H. Baker, Jenkin Lloyd Jones, Jesus Christ, Jim Lindsay, John, John Adams, John Bunyan, John D. Rockefeller, John Henry Barrows, John Locke, John Milton, John Murray, John Stott, Jonathan Edwards, Jordan Peterson, Joseph Priestly, Joseph Smith, Judith Skutch, Julius Dresser, Kant, Karl Menninger, Karlstadt, Kate Fox, Kenneth Minkema, Koot Hoomi, Kyle Rittenhouse, Lelio Socinus, Leonard Zusne, Lou Malnatis, Luke Thompson (  @WhiteStoneName  ), Lyman Beecher, Madame Blavatsky, Margaretta Fox, Marianne Williamson, Mark Parker (  @MarkDParker  ) , Mark Twain, Mary Baker Eddy, Mary Todd Lincoln, Matt Herman, Meister Eckhart, Melinda Lundquist Denton, Mesmer, Micah, Michael Bronky, Michael Servetus, Monophysite, Morya, Moses, Nancy Pelosi, Napoleon Bonaparte, Nettie Colburn Maynard, Newton, Niccolò Machiavelli, Nicholas of Cusa, Norman Vincent Peale, Oprah, Origen, Paul, Paul Tillich, Paul Vanderlay, Phineas Parkhurst Quimby, Plotinus, Proclus, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Ramakrishna, Rick Warren, Robert Schuller, Robin D'Angelo, Rod Dreher, Ronald Reagan, Ross Douthat, Rowan Williams, Rudolf Steiner, Samuel Johnson, Septimus J. Hanna, Shailer Mathews, Shakers, Shadrach, Socrates, Soyen Shaku, Swami Vivekananda, Tad Lincoln, Tertullian, Thomas Aquinas, Thomas Jefferson, Thomas Starr King, Tracy Herman, Virchand Gandhi, Victoria Woodhull, Warren Felt Evans, William Ellery Channing, William James, William Lloyd Garrison, William Newton Clarke, Willie Lincoln, Winthrop, Zwingli.

Today, we dive into the Kirk vs. Keller debate: bold truth-telling versus winsome “Third Way” evangelism. Charlie Kirk's unapologetic gospel and conservative clarity transformed millions, while Tim Keller's approach often led to compromise. Join us to reject cultural cowardice, embrace fearless faith, and discern how to evangelize effectively in a hostile world, standing firm for Christ's truth. Share the Arrows 2025 is on October 11 in Dallas, Texas! Go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠http://sharethearrows.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ for tickets now! Sponsored by: ⁠Carly Jean Los Angeles⁠: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.carlyjeanlosangeles.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Good Ranchers⁠: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.goodranchers.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠EveryLife⁠: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.everylife.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Buy Allie's new book, "Toxic Empathy: How Progressives Exploit Christian Compassion": ⁠⁠https://www.toxicempathy.com/⁠⁠ --- Timecodes: (00:00) Intro (2:00) The Impact of Tim Keller's Evangelism (15:00) The Impact of Charlie Kirk's Evangelism (21:30) Should Christians Get Involved in Politics? (42:00) The Dangers of Winsomeness (52:15) Uncompromising Apologetics (01:01:30) Different Tones of Evangelism --- Today's Sponsors: Good Ranchers — Go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠GoodRanchers.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and subscribe to any of their boxes (but preferably the Allie Beth Stuckey Box) to get free Waygu burgers, hot dogs, bacon, or chicken wings in every box for life. Plus, you'll get $40 off when you use code ALLIE at checkout. EveryLife — The only premium baby brand that is unapologetically pro-life. EveryLife offers high-performing, supremely soft diapers and wipes that protect and celebrate every precious life. Head to EveryLife.com and use promo code ALLIE10 to get 10% of your first order today! Seven Weeks Coffee — Experience the best coffee while supporting the pro-life movement with Seven Weeks Coffee; use code ALLIE at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.sevenweekscoffee.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to save up to 25% off your first order, plus your free gift! Constitution Wealth Management — Let's discover what faithful stewardship looks like in your life. Visit ⁠⁠Constitutionwealth.com/Allie⁠⁠ for a free consultation. Masa Chips — Go to MasaChips.com and use promo code ALLIEB for a discount on your first time order of seed oil free tortilla chips! --- Episodes you might like: Ep 609 | Tim Keller's Terrible Abortion Take https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ep-609-tim-kellers-terrible-abortion-take/id1359249098?i=1000559379681 Ep 560 | How Tim Keller & Russell Moore Became Mouthpieces for Masks & Vaccines | Guest: Megan Basham https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ep-560-how-tim-keller-russell-moore-became-mouthpieces/id1359249098?i=1000550480363 Ep 508 | My Response to John Piper, Tim Keller & Big Eva https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ep-508-my-response-to-john-piper-tim-keller-big-eva/id1359249098?i=1000539092606 --- Buy Allie's book, You're Not Enough (& That's Okay): Escaping the Toxic Culture of Self-Love: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://alliebethstuckey.com/book⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Relatable merchandise – use promo code 'ALLIE10' for a discount: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://shop.blazemedia.com/collections/allie-stuckey⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“Grace means you're free to be honest. God won't reject you, He has already redeemed you.” - Tim Keller In this episode of CPXL Pastors Eric and Andy discuss what it means that Jesus is our great high priest. But the conversation ends with a charge to look honestly at where you're at, where Jesus is at, and to take one step in that direction.

“Grace means you're free to be honest. God won't reject you, He has already redeemed you.” - Tim Keller In this episode of CPXL Pastors Eric and Andy discuss what it means that Jesus is our great high priest. But the conversation ends with a charge to look honestly at where you're at, where Jesus is at, and to take one step in that direction.

Voting for Mayor starts in one week and a major nuclear announcement in New Mexico are just a couple of the topics Gerges Scott and Bob cover on the final day of September. Is this Tim Keller's race to lose, or will somebody emerge as a legitimate challenger?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What does recent polling from the Albuquerque Journal say about the Mayoral race and Tim Keller's approval rating? What needs to be known about the upcoming election? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The political landscape in New Mexico is heating up with the Democratic gubernatorial race between Deb Haaland and Sam Bregman taking center stage. What started as a relatively quiet contest has evolved into a strategic battle of positioning, with Holland's team landing the first significant blow by exposing plagiarized content in Bregman's ambitious 189-page policy document. This exchange perfectly illustrates their competing approaches: Bregman aggressively seeking debates while Haaland maintains a more measured stance, highlighting the authenticity questions that may plague her opponent.Albuquerque's mayoral race presents another fascinating political study. While incumbent Tim Keller leads in the polls with 29% support against former Sheriff Darren White's 16%, the numbers reveal potential vulnerability. With 60% of voters saying "it's time for someone else" and undecided voters outnumbering Keller supporters, the race could be headed for a competitive runoff where Keller's underwater favorability rating might prove decisive.The healthcare crisis in New Mexico continues to deepen, with a controversial op-ed by attorney Brian Cologne defending trial lawyers while seemingly ignoring the devastating impact of the state's regulatory environment on healthcare access. As one listener pointedly asked: what good is having powerful lawyers when families can't find doctors to treat their sick children? This tension between legal accountability and healthcare accessibility represents one of the state's most pressing challenges.On the national front, Portland's handling of protests around ICE facilities highlights a troubling prioritization of political positioning over public safety. Despite ranking as America's second most dangerous city, local officials reject federal assistance while simultaneously failing to provide adequate local police protection to affected neighborhoods, leaving residents to fend for themselves amid nightly violence.We also explore the Trump administration's focus on potential links between Tylenol and autism, the looming government shutdown negotiations, and even tackle the surprisingly complex question of appropriate wedding gift amounts in 2023. From political showdowns to practical advice, this episode offers a comprehensive look at the issues shaping our communities and nation.Website: https://www.nodoubtaboutitpodcast.com/Twitter: @nodoubtpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/NoDoubtAboutItPod/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markronchettinm/?igshid=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D

Group Guide Use this guide to help your group discussion as you meet this week. TranscriptGood morning. My name is Chet. I'm one of the pastors here. We are working our way through our membership commitment. In some ways, it's like if you went and saw a band and they only played their hits, they didn't replace the drummer and he got to write a song about his child and you have to listen to that. None of that, just only hits. That's kind of what we're doing with our membership commitment. It's like these are the straightforward, clear doctrines of the faith and how we're gonna practice them together as a church family. And we're just walking through that together, trying to see where this comes from in the Scriptures, how it applies to us, how we're gonna walk that out here and so glad that you're here this morning and we're getting to do this together. Today we are looking at the doctrine of salvation. So this is commitments five and six, and we are looking at what Christ has done for us in salvation. And I feel a little bit this morning that you get to talking to a grandmother and y'all remember that it doesn't happen like it used to, but they would pull out of their purse this little thing of their grandchildren, and each one of them precious and wonderful and worthy of explanation of who's playing the clarinet and who's pre law and who's just so wonderful and precious. They'd get that gleam in their eye and you're, I'm going to be here a while. Now they can do it on their phone. And it's infinite. I feel that this morning as we look into salvation and we look into this statement that's just each section just packed with beauty and wonder and glory. And so we're going to take this time this morning to study the Scriptures on who Jesus is and what he has done for us in the work of salvation, this act of God on our behalf. My hope is that we would delight in that and respond to that in worship and faith. So take a moment with me as we pray.As we begin. Lord, we are seeking to, through faith in the work of your spirit, to peer into things that are too wonderful for us. We ask that you would help us to delight in the wonder of salvation and the hope of your glory, and that you would help us to perceive it in our hearts how good and glorious you are and what you have accomplished for us in Christ in Jesus name, Amen.So commitment number five says Jesus is The Son of God who died in my place for my sin, securing for me God's grace and relationship with him forever. I have been saved by God's grace through faith in the life, death and resurrection of Jesus. My salvation is not a result of any of my actions, good works or morals. There's a whole lot in there. We're going to walk through it. Commitment 6. I have been sealed by the Holy Spirit for salvation and empowered by him for mission and service. We're only going to look at the first half of that this morning. So we'll just look at I have been sealed by the Holy Spirit for salvation. We will look at the second half next week.Let's go to the beginning of this. Says Jesus is the Son of God who died in my place for my sin. Let's consider that first. When Gabriel comes to Joseph in Matthew chapter one, he says she will bear a son. He's declaring to him that Mary is pregnant, she's going to have a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.> She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins. (Matthew 1:21, ESV)So that's what we looked at last week, that we have sin, that we are a part of the rebellion, that Adam and Eve rebelled against God, they fell into sin, and that we've joined that rebellion, that we've participated in that, and Jesus expressly is coming to save his people from their sins. Or as Paul puts it in 1 Corinthians 15:3.> For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, (1 Corinthians 15:3, ESV)Let me tell you, if you have approached Christianity and you have held something up as first importance, and it is not that, then you're confused about the message of Christianity. If you've come in with, well, let me understand this, or you talk to people sometimes and they're like, you're trying to talk to them about Christianity. I got a lot of questions about Noah's Ark. And it's like, hey, can I tell you, that's not the main point of Christianity. We can get there. But this is what Christianity has come to declare, that Christ died in accordance with the Scriptures, that this was prophesied and that he's come to save his people from their sin, that he died for our sins. That sin is a cancer that is killing us, and Christ comes as the physician to heal us. That sin is a prison that we are captured in, and that Christ is the one who opens the doors, lets the sun in, picks us up and carries us out. That he's the hero, the rescuer, the hope. That's the testimony of the scriptures. First John 4 says it this way.> In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. (1 John 4:10, ESV)So he displays his love for us in doing this. And he's the propitiation, which is a theologically dense term that means he absorbs wrath. That, as Paul says in Romans 1, that the wrath of God is put on display, that it's against all of the wickedness and unrighteousness of men. Or as he says in Romans 3, that we're storing up wrath for the day of wrath because of our lack of repentance, and that Christ comes as the propitiation for our sin, that he takes wrath, that he absorbs the wrath on our behalf. Tim Keller puts it in a really tangible way when he says that sin is like, if I come to your house and break a lamp. When you sin, a real thing happens. Something tangible happens in the world. He says that you can say, you owe me a lamp, or you can say, don't worry about it. But you saying don't worry about it doesn't fix the lamp. It just means you're going to pay for it. That's what Christ has done. When people say, well, why is it such a big deal? Why didn't he say don't? Why can't he just say don't worry about it? He gives us a way to say, don't worry about it, where he pays for it, where he comes and says, I'll cover the cost of your sin. I'll absorb the wrath. That's what propitiation is. And it's wonderful that when it says he died for our sins, it means that we really incurred debt that we have, debt that we owe, that we've caused, and he comes and pays for it.Or in Galatians 2:20, it says,> I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. (Galatians 2:20, ESV)This is one of the reasons why it's personal in the way we have written it in our commitment, that he died in my place for my sin. That's the way Paul is saying it here, that he loved me and gave Himself for me. Yes, he loved the church and gave Himself for the church. He loved us and gave Himself for us. That he died for our sins, but he also died for my sin. That he also died for your sin. That he knows you, knows the cost and the debt of your sin, loves you and died for your sin. That if you are in Christ, that that is personal. That it's not something where you get brought into a big group and you just sneak in. I was at a South Carolina game and we were sitting near the little club thing and it started pouring rain. This wasn't yesterday, but it was a couple weeks ago and it just was pouring. We just charged into the covered area and there was no way for them to check everybody. We just snuck in. There's too many people coming, too much rain. You just were like, don't worry about me, I'm coming in. Some of us act like that's how you got into Christ, that you somehow snuck past and that he loves other people dearly and that he paid for their sin and that you somehow have just kind of gone in the back and stood in the corner and he's not really noticing you. But that's not the reality. He knows you personally, loves you dearly and personally and rescues you personally and pays for your sin personally. If you belong to Jesus, you belong to him and he knows you and cares for you. That's a reality of the salvation that we have in Christ. Do not let the enemy lie to you and say that you somehow got in on a technicality and that he loves the Church, but not really you, because that is not true. If you belong to Jesus, he knows and loves you dearly and has died for you, who loved me and gave Himself for me. That's the way Paul says it.So what happens when he does this? The next part of this is he's securing for me. He died for my sins, securing for me God's grace, relationship with him forever. We're going to consider God's grace that he brought us into it. We're going to consider that in a moment. But first we're going to look at this relationship with him forever. In our sin, we are alienated from God. This is the way Colossians 1:21–22 says it.> And you, who once were alienated and hostile in mind, doing evil deeds, he has now reconciled in his body of flesh by his death, in order to present you holy and blameless and above reproach before him, (Colossians 1:21–22, ESV)Alienated means there's a gap. There's no relationship, it's broken. You don't belong to each other. The tie and the love and the relationship severed. This is where we are in our sin. That if you are standing in Adam, you are alienated from God and you're hostile to him. You're an enemy. That's the way Paul puts it in Romans 5. He says, we're enemies of God, but he says we're doing evil deeds. He says he has now reconciled, which means to bridge the gap and restore the relationship. So it's undoing alienation. He has now reconciled in his body of flesh by his death, in order to present you holy and blameless and above reproach before him. The work of the Cross reconciles us to the Father. So you'll hear people say things like, sin separates us from God. And that's true if we exist in our sin. But if we exist in Christ, then we are reconciled and we are holy and blameless and above reproach before him through what he has done in his body of flesh by his death. So that you get moved to Christ, and then your sin does not separate you from God because he has done the work of reconciliation, that he's restored the relationship.Reading a book recently written by Lee Strobel, he was talking with someone about heaven, and they were discussing the concept of reconciliation between people in heaven, that those that we've had animosity towards, that as we are redeemed in Christ, we are brought back into relationship. Lee Strobel was talking about the fact that he was very rebellious as a teenager. His father was a believer, but that he had contributed so much to the deterioration of that relationship. His father, one time, exasperated in anger, looked at him before his senior prom and said, I don't have enough love for you to fill up my pinky finger. Lee Strobel said we never fixed that. We never reconciled. We never sorted that out. My father's past, and I believe he was a true believer. I think he's gone on to be with the Lord. He said, I've thought over and over again about how much my sin contributed to our relationship. I didn't have a chance to repent. I didn't have the chance to reconcile. They were discussing that when he enters eternity, that relationship will be restored, that there will be peace, that there'll be forgiveness, that there'll be joy, that they'll be brought back together. I was just overwhelmed by the thought of that and this, that we would be reconciled to God, that our hostility between him and us would be restored through the work of Christ, that we would belong, that when we showed up, there would be nothing between us that would make us want to hide or shrink back because of the work of Christ, that we would have all the freedom and all the joy and all the delight to run to him and not feel like that's odd. And that he would have the same relationship with us. It's beautiful that we've been reconciled and we have a relationship with him forever. We should be overwhelmed by that.It says this. I have been saved by God's grace through faith in the life, death and resurrection of Jesus, that we are in Christ, that the gospel, the life, death and resurrection of Christ apply to us, and that we get to be brought into it, that we get to be saved through it. Let's consider the concept of grace. We've been saved by God's grace. Ephesians 2 says,> But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved, (Ephesians 2:4–5, 8 ESV)Let's follow the logic here. We're dead in our trespasses. So what did you bring? Trespasses. That's sin. You've crossed the line. You've trespassed. There was a thing that said, no trespassing, don't go here. And then you went there. Do y'all remember that, when y'all did that? Yeah, we've done that. We've trespassed. And what does that bring? Death. You've brought two things, death and trespass. That earned you death. But God loves us and is rich in mercy for those who have trespassed. He's made us alive together with Christ. When Christ rose, we get to be made alive with him. Then it says,> For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. (Ephesians 2:8–9, ESV)That does not tell us what grace is. It tells us that grace is wonderful. You read that and go, well, I'm so thankful for grace. Grace sounds great. If I told you the flux capacitor lets you time travel, you're like, wow, what's a flux capacitor? That's kind of what this is. Grace saved us. The salvation sounds wonderful, but what is grace? He says in verse eight, for by grace you have been saved through faith. This is not your own doing. It is the gift of God. So grace is a gift. Another way of putting this an acronym somebody told me one time, is God's riches at Christ's expense Grace, or God's righteousness at Christ's expense, meaning that he pays for it and then we receive it. But it's a gift. I had someone a week ago say, hey, I have a gift for you. You know what I said, whoa, thanks. Sweet. Sounds good. I love that sentence. It's one of my favorite sentences. You know what? I didn't say, hey, I have a gift for you. I didn't go, okay, tell me what I gotta do. They just said, quit being weird. Open it. I don't take it from my hand when I hand it to you. Do you not know what gifts are like? That's how grace works. We don't come in and go, okay, what do I have to do? How am I going to be saved? All right, no, it's a gift. This is received. This doesn't get better than that. There's something in us that wants to earn something, that wants to achieve something. What has happened is that Christ has gone to work on our behalf, and graciously, as a gift, hands out salvation to those who believe. That's what it says, that we come in by faith. Romans calls it a free gift. It says that we've been saved through faith.So let's consider faith. What is faith? If faith is what brings me into grace and grace is what gives me salvation, then I need to know what faith is. John 3:16 says,> For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. (John 3:16, ESV)That's that relationship forever, that eternal life that we get brought into something that's going to last forever. That we're brought in by belief, that we're trusting in Jesus. Somebody asked Jesus in John chapter six. They said, what do I need to do? In John 6, Jesus answered them,> Jesus answered them, "This is the work of God, that you believe in him whom he has sent." (John 6:29, ESV)You want to do the work. You trust Jesus. You might be inclined to say, well, that doesn't sound like work. Yes, wonderful. It doesn't. It's surrender. It's anti-work. It's us putting down the tools and saying, I'm trusting in Jesus. My hope is in Him. It's not in me. Romans 4:24 says, he's talking about righteousness, which would be the right standing before God. It says,> but for us who believe in him who raised from the dead Jesus our Lord, (Romans 4:24, ESV)who was delivered up for our trespasses and raised for our justification. He goes to the cross for our trespasses, our sin, and then he's raised. Justification means that you stand in God's holy court made right. There is no claim that can be made against you because he's made us righteous. His righteousness is counted to us through the work of Christ, and we approach it through faith that we believe in Him.Trying to make this tangible. I want to talk to the elementary students in the room. But also at some point, all of us were elementary students, so you should be able to track. If you're in elementary school, you do not know how to drive a car. I know this because you live in South Carolina and most of the adults in South Carolina don't know how to drive a car. If you're in elementary school, you might be confident that you know how to drive a car, that you could do this or you've seen it and it seems pretty, but you don't. So you're dependent on the adults around you to get you places. There are a few simple rules for you. Get in the car, close the door, put a seatbelt on. That's it. Now one of the rules you have is see who's driving the car. Do you know this person? That's actually your biggest rule. Do I trust this person? You don't just get to hop in any car. If your parents haven't told you this, I'm telling you now. Don't just hop in any car. Someone who pulls up, kicks the door open and says, get in here. No, I don't know you. I don't trust you. I don't believe you'll take me where I need to go. Belief when we come to Christ is saying, this is the car and this is the driver that's going to get me where I need to go. One of the things we need to understand is that you have no other way of getting there. You don't know how to get there yourself. You actually can't get yourself there. What we're doing when we place faith in Jesus is saying, my hope is in him, and if he doesn't get me there, I won't get there. If he doesn't save, I won't be saved. If he doesn't have mercy, I won't receive mercy. If he doesn't have righteousness, I won't receive righteousness. If he doesn't give me his righteousness, I won't get it. If he doesn't do the work, I won't be able to participate in this because I have no means on my own. But I am putting all of my faith, all of my trust in him and I have no ability. I'm along for the rush. Faith is going to him and saying, Jesus, it's all on you. I believe that you have done what the Bible says you've done. I believe that you grant by faith to all those who will trust in you salvation and that none of us are put to shame. That's faith.My salvation is not a result of any of my actions, good works and morals. Faith, I said, is the opposite of a work. It's the undoing of work. It's surrendering. It's stopping. If I tell my kids to stop, they do it, but they do it by stopping, by not doing anything. That's somehow faith. Works is us surrendering our actions, good works and morals. Let me show you this. Ephesians 2 just told us we were dead in our trespasses, says in verse 8,> For by grace you have been saved through faith. This is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. (Ephesians 2:8–9, ESV)If you boast about a gift, you're boasting about the giver of the gift. If I see you with something nice and I say, wow, that's really nice, and you go, yeah, I'm not trying to brag, but I had a birthday. It's like, yeah, you shouldn't be trying to brag. That was terrible bragging. You didn't earn who gave it to you. You could say, but then it would be pointing to the person who gave the gift. There's no boasting for us in salvation because we didn't do anything. We haven't earned this. Romans 3:20 says,> For by works of the law no human being will be justified in his sight, since through the law comes knowledge of sin. (Romans 3:20, ESV)This is very important. If you've come into your hope of salvation and you think it's about doing the stuff right, being good enough, following the rules, that's not how this works. We are not justified by the law. We don't have any work that we can do to show to the Lord. Romans 11:6 says,> But if it is by grace, it is no longer on the basis of works; otherwise grace would no longer be grace. (Romans 11:6, ESV)If I said, I have a gift for you if you win it, well, it's not a gift, it's a prize. It's a trophy. You can now brag about it. I have a gift for you. Give me $500. We've exchanged something. There's some kind of contract. So if salvation has 10% you in it, well, then you get 10% of the glory. And when we sing, we should sing 10% of our songs to us. Every 10th stanza should be. Also we're great, but that's not how it works. Because work undoes grace, because grace is a gift. This is how it has to work. We can't save ourselves. If he doesn't do it, it doesn't happen. We're not able to earn this, we're not able to achieve it. It's not about you. Galatians 2:16 says,> Yet we know that a person is not justified by works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ, so we also have believed in Christ Jesus, in order to be justified by faith in Christ and not by works of the law, because by works of the law no one will be justified. (Galatians 2:16, ESV)So if you say, well, I'm a good person, that'll count. No, God gave us standards to show we won't live up to them, and then to drive us to Christ, who fulfilled the law on our behalf and grants us his righteousness. If it had anything to do with works, then you would be owed credit and he would owe you some sort of something, and it would somehow, to some degree, be about you. That's not how it works. We receive it by grace to the praise of his glorious grace, and not to the praise of anything else.There's actually a way for you to use your good works to avoid Jesus. I'll be good enough so that he can't have a claim on me, so that he can't tell me what I'm supposed to do. He'll owe me. But that's not how it works. We come in and say, none of my actions, none of my good works, none of my morals have saved this for me. That's wonderful news because of what we see next, which is in Commitment 6. It says, I have been sealed by the Holy Spirit for salvation. If you didn't earn it, we also get to rejoice that we don't keep it. Let me show you where this is in the text. Ephesians 1:13 says,> In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, (Ephesians 1:13, ESV)When you entered Christ, when you placed your hope in him, you were locked up in Christ, you were sealed in your sin, and now you're sealed in Christ. You are held captive in sin, and now you're held in Christ. I want to read another place where he mentions that same letter to try to help you understand. What does that look like? Chapter 4, verse 30 says,> And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. (Ephesians 4:30, ESV)This sealing tells us two things. One is he's telling him not to sin, and he says, don't grieve the Holy Spirit by whom you were sealed. He doesn't say, if you sin, you'll lose the Holy Spirit. He just says, don't grieve him; he's with you and he'll mourn your sin. He doesn't like it, so don't walk in sin. You grieve the Spirit, but he doesn't say he'll leave you. You don't work your way into salvation, which means you can't sin your way out of it. We are called to continue to follow him in faith. We are called to obey. We're going to be there the whole time. But the Spirit's at work in us and we cannot fall out. We've been sealed for the day of redemption. This is why Hebrews calls Jesus the author and perfecter of our faith. This is why in Philippians it says he who began a good work in you will carry it to completion on the day of Jesus Christ. Christ is going to get you there because it's to the praise of his glorious work and grace on our behalf that he's rich in mercy, as Peter says it, that we're being guarded by God's power. You're not guarded by your power. You're not guarded by your strength. You're not guarded by your focus, love, energy. So often I get to go to the Lord and say, I'm so weak, I'm so distracted. I'm so small and I'm guarded by Him, I'm carried by Him. I'm like a toddler in a car seat in the back of the car. At no point did it suddenly become my responsibility. That's the salvation that we get to have in Christ. We don't have it in anyone or anything else. It's held for us in Christ. Accomplished by Christ, kept by Christ to the glory of Christ.Let's pray and then I'll tell us how we're going to respond. Father, we are thankful for this salvation. We're thankful for you loving us, for you being rich in mercy, for you bringing us from death to life, for you keeping us, for you qualifying us for you, holding us, for you welcoming us. Lord, may our hearts be able to taste that so that we might rejoice in some measure fitting to the glorious nature of this salvation. Lord, for anyone in this room who still stands in their sin, who still walks alienated and hostile, for anyone in this room who is trying to stand in their own morality, who is trying to, by works of the law, justify themselves. Oh Lord, may your spirit break in. May they hear the word of the gospel and may they believe. May you seal them for the day of redemption to the praise of your glorious grace in Jesus name, Amen.As a church, we study the Scriptures, we read the Word, and we respond. It's the way that God works on our behalf and then we respond to him. The way we're going to respond this morning is we're going to take communion as a church family. For those of you who are Christians and have placed faith in Christ, this is where we remember that on the night Jesus was betrayed, he took bread and he said, this is my body broken for you. And he took the cup and he said, this is the blood of my covenant poured out for you as a forgiveness of sins. When we take communion, we proclaim his death until he returns. We tangibly, physically remind ourselves that Christ did this for me and I am in him. I'll dip the bread, I'll hold it, juice will run on my fingers and I'll remember that Christ really tangibly actually came and died for me and that I get to partake, that he's in me, that he keeps me, that my hope is in Him. So take this morning and remind yourself that I was dead in my trespasses and sins. But he has grace. He's rich in mercy. My hope is in Him. Tell him once again, Lord, I need you. I need you to redeem me. I need you to keep me. I need you to save me. If you don't do it, it won't happen. But praise Christ that you came and that you died and that you redeemed.If you're in this room and you have not trusted in Jesus, in a moment when we begin to move around, I want you to get up, place your faith in Jesus. I want you to walk down and get on your knees and ask the Lord to save you. I want you to tangibly lock in that I am going to Christ and I am surrendering to Christ, that it is about him and him alone, that my hope is in him and him alone. If you're in elementary school, grab your parent's hand, walk with them. They'll come pray with you. If you have clarifying questions or you need help, I'll stand down here and talk with you as well. But I want you to move and go. Lord, I need the hope of salvation. I need the work of Christ. I don't want to trust myself. I want to surrender. Don't fight with the Spirit. If he's calling you, come because salvation is a gift to be received. Come and ask the Lord to heal you and to save you and to bring you life.Daniel's gonna come up, we're gonna play. We're gonna take communion as a church family. If you haven't trusted in Jesus, I invite you to come and to trust in Him. When you're ready, take communion.

Sermon NotesSermon Series: Acts - Our Story, Our MissionSermon Title: Embracing Your EnemyPassage: Acts 9:10-19,26-27Preacher: Ashley HerrIdentifying Your Enemy (v10-16)WHO is your enemy?WHY do you view them as your enemy? What makes them your enemy?Embrace Your Enemy by Praying for Them (v17-19)Embrace Your Enemy by Forgiving for Them (v26-27)Forgive your enemy because Jesus commands us to forgiveForgive your enemy because forgiveness releases you of their hold over youForgive your enemy because forgiveness is a required step toward reconciliation Forgive your enemy because you are an enemy who has been forgivenReflectionHow will you respond? What will you do? Will you embrace your enemy by praying for them, forgiving them? Or will you continue to remain enslaved in your self-made prison of anger and resentment? What step of faithful obedience to the words of Jesus is God calling you to take to embrace your enemy? Read Romans 12:14-21.Why will you embrace your enemy? Read Romans 5:6-11Sermon Footnotes“An enemy is someone we have defined as being against us in contrast to someone who is for us. Many of us have a strange need to divide the world up into people who are for us and those who are against us. Even more strange is that our identity is often dependent on having enemies. We don't exist without an enemy. We define ourselves by what we are opposed to. We define the enemy and the enemy is there to define us.” - Henry Nouwen, Following Jesus, p64“Hating the enemy costs us. We often allow the enemy to have power over us…Feelings of hatred, rejection, jealousy, and resentment enslave us in our self-made prison of fear.” - Henry Nouwen, Following Jesus, p66,67“In the New Testament our enemies are those who harbor hostility against us, not those against whom we cherish hostility, for Jesus refuses to reckon with such a possibility.” - Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Cost of Discipleship, p147-148“Through the medium of prayer we go to our enemy, stand by his side, and plead for him to God.” - Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Cost of Discipleship, p149 Recommended Reading:Cost of Discipleship by Dietrich Bonhoeffer - specifically Chapter 13. The EnemyEscaping Enemy Mode: How Our Brains Unite or Divide Us by Jim Wilder and Ray WoolridgeFollowing Jesus by Henri Nouwen - specifically Chapter 3. The Challenge: Love Your EnemiesForgive by Tim Keller

Therapy for Christians can be life-changing, but how do you know if it's right for you? In this episode of the Don't Waste the Moment podcast, Pastor Bob Martin answers “Therapy for Christians: When is it helpful. Bob unpacks four crucial therapy questions for Christians to ask before starting counseling. Drawing from Scripture, practical wisdom, and insights from Tim Keller, Bob explores how to discern good therapy from unhelpful therapy and why Jesus must remain the ultimate source of healing.Whether you're considering counseling for the first time or re-evaluating your current sessions, this conversation will help you choose wisely, grow spiritually, and keep Christ at the center.SUBSCRIBE to our channel / @binmin_orgJOIN the NEWSLETTER at https://binmin.org/newsletter/SUPPORT Binmin with a tax-deductible gift HERE - https://binmin.org/donate0:00 - INTRO 1:58 - TIM KELLER QUOTE3:26 - PSALM 139:134:01 - DOES THIS PROVIDE SPACE?Space to process4:40 - IS THIS PERSON QUALIFIED?5:22 - IS THIS ONLY GOING TO POINT ME INWARD?6:03 - IS THIS COUNSELING GOING TO POINT ME TO JESUS?7:08 - NEXT STEP: CONSIDER COUNSELINGJOIN the⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ NEWSLETTER⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. SUPPORT Binmin with a tax-deductible gift⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ HERE⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠CONNECT WITH BINMIN: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Linkedin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Binmin.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Questions?: info@binmin.orgPODCAST RESOURCES: More from Binmin:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Binmin.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Subscribe on Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow on Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Subscribe on YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LEAVE A REVIEW on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Apple podcasts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

A conversation with Tim Keller from 2021, in honor of his birthday. Watch the full conversation on YouTube. Tim Keller would have turned 75 years old this week (September 23rd). To mark this, we are bringing back an episode from early in 2021 (back when the show was called Signposts). At the time of the conversation, Keller was a few months removed from learning of the cancer that eventually took his life and had just released a new book, Hope in Times of Fear: The Resurrection and the Meaning of Easter. They also talk about the recent article Tim wrote for The Atlantic, wrestling with mortality, how to order our loves in this life, and finding hope in the midst of suffering. Ultimately, this is a conversation upholding the comfort of the resurrection, and reminds us that through it, nothing truly good is ever lost.  Keep up with Russell: Sign up for the weekly newsletter where Russell shares thoughtful takes on big questions, offers a Christian perspective on life, and recommends books and music he's enjoying. Submit a question for the show at questions@russellmoore.com  Subscribe to the Christianity Today Magazine: Special offer for listeners of The Russell Moore Show: Click here for 25% off a subscription. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Stephanie welcomes singer-songwriter Melanie Penn for a heartfelt conversation about faith, creativity, and the power of redemptive storytelling through music. Faith, worship, and creativity are deeply intertwined. Whether through music, storytelling, or daily life, God calls us to partner in bringing beauty from brokenness, to be honest in our journeys, and to recognize His redemptive hand at work even in the darkest moments. Melanie Penn shares her unique journey as a worship leader, pointing out that this role can mean different things in different church settings. While she served in a traditional PCA church, at Redeemer Presbyterian under the leadership of late Tim Keller, where the “worship leader” guides congregational singing and scripture, Melanie emphasizes that her primary calling has become storytelling through faith-driven songwriting. She encourages us to widen our understanding of worship leadership—it extends beyond church walls and formal titles, and anyone whose art or actions point others to God partakes in worship leading. Every song Melanie writes is an act of faith. She explains that there's an element of doubt in the creative process, but she repeatedly experiences the Holy Spirit's presence as inspiration and ideas unfold. She calls creativity a “faith-building experience,” mirroring how God brings something tangible from nothing. Melanie invites us all to see all life's creative acts, whether songwriting or problem-solving, as incarnational—reflecting God's own creative nature. Drawing on her earlier album “Immanuel,” Melanie shares how God transformed her loneliest, most painful Christmas into a season of inspired songwriting. It's a personal testament to how God brings beauty from brokenness. However, she wisely cautions against oversimplifying suffering, acknowledging that some redemption stories are not resolved in this life—but faith keeps us trusting. Melanie's latest album, “The Rising,” is a musical journey from Christ's burial to Ascension, told through first-person narratives of biblical characters. The creative sequencing is intentional: each song not only unfolds chronologically but also layers meaning—from Creation to New Creation, as Stephanie observes. Songs like “The Morning” (personifying the resurrection dawn) and “The Man on the Middle Cross” (based on the thief's encounter with grace) invite listeners to see themselves in the redemptive story. Songs spotlighting characters like Peter, Mary Magdalene, and Thomas reflect deep emotional truths. Melanie explores Peter's restoration with gentleness, suggesting Jesus's threefold question—“Do you love me?”—is not punitive but restorative. In the story of Mary Magdalene encountering the risen Christ, the intimacy of Jesus calling her by name is set to music that leaves sacred space for silence and wonder. Thomas's doubt gives voice to modern “deconstruction” struggles, reminding us that doubt and faith often walk hand-in-hand. Melanie's creative process is prayerful and open, often sparked while walking and reflecting with God. She emphasizes the importance of discernment—knowing which ideas to share or hold private—and the value of collaboration in shaping the final message. As Melanie Penn's music invites us, let us step into the biblical narrative, find ourselves in its grace, and join the ongoing song of resurrection and hope. MORE FROM MELANIE PENN Melanie Penn is a classically trained vocalist and songwriter now based in Nashville, TN. For many years she was part of New York's theater scene, and portrayed Sandy in the Broadway national tour of Grease! where she starred alongside legendary actor and entertainer Frankie Avalon. Penn also served as a worship leader at the city's Redeemer Presbyterian Church under the leadership of the late bestselling author and theologian Tim Keller. Penn has released multiple albums in collaboration with producer Ben Shive, including Wake Up Love (2010), Hope Tonight (2015) and More Alive Volume 1 and Volume 2 (2020/2022). Her critically acclaimed 2017 concept project, Immanuel, a journey through the Christmas story, reached #1 on Amazon's Christian, Worship and Holiday Download charts. The Rising: A Resurrection album is her latest project and expected to release throughout 2025. Here is her Christmas worship album (one of Stephanie's favorites!): https://www.melaniepenn.com/immanuel  More about Melanie and her latest album, “the Rising”: https://www.melaniepenn.com/  "The Rising" presents a unique artistic approach to one of history's most significant events, with each song written from the first-person perspective of biblical figures who witnessed the resurrection firsthand. Through the voices of Peter, Thomas, Mary Magdalene, and others, Melanie crafts an intimate musical narrative that brings ancient accounts into contemporary focus. The album draws exclusively from Gospel writings, offering listeners an immersive experience that bridges the gap between biblical history and modern worship. Melanie's approach transforms familiar resurrection accounts into personal testimonies, allowing listeners to experience these pivotal moments through the eyes of those who lived them. The Rising features eleven songs, including: Man of Sorrows, Roll That Stone Away, Let There Be Light, Man on the Middle Cross, The Gardener, and I will Come Back for You. Website: https://www.melaniepenn.com  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melaniepenn/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/melaniepennsings/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/melaniepennnyc Album: The Rising – A Resurrection Album, releasing September 19, 2025 We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with. Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog Identity in the battle | Ephesians https://www.podcastics.com/episode/372022/link/ Malachi: Messenger to Messiah https://www.podcastics.com/episode/356130/link/ Wisdom from the Book of Proverbs https://www.podcastics.com/episode/324347/link/ Come to the Table | The Feasts Jesus celebrated https://www.podcastics.com/episode/309956/link/ Delightfully French | Embrace Scripture like never before! https://www.podcastics.com/episode/281545/link/ You are invited to join us on the Gospel Spice Prayer Bible Study, titled "The heart behind prayer" starting September 20, 2025! Details and registration here: https://www.gospelspice.com/prayer  There are a few things in our Christian life that we know we should do more, or at least better – and prayer just might top the list. Prayer is a mystery. Why would a conversation with a human have any influence on God's eternal, sovereign plan? It defies logic, and beckons love. How can God, the Almighty Lord of Hosts, be this close, this personal? It defies understanding, and beckons involvement. But, lack of time, inspiration, and discipline, combined with the ruthless tyranny of our busy lives, push prayer to the periphery, to the “one day I'll get to it” pile. And yet, we can excel at what we endeavor to undertake. So, why isn't prayer more of a spiritual priority? Could we develop a mindset around prayer that made it attractive, inspiring, even maybe delightful? What if we attuned our spiritual ears to listen to God, and our spiritual eyes to see His provision? As an unassuming student, I'm going to humbly offer to share the little I have learned from others about the joy of prayer. I will give us theology, practical tips, and useful resources, sharing what works for me as we, together, learn to pray. If you find prayer intimidating, or if your lack of prayer makes you feel guilty or “less than,” then this is the place for you! If you have been a student of prayer for many years, this is the place for you too! If you have breath in your lungs, then prayer can become one of the deepest joys of your day. Don't miss out! A PERSPECTIVE ABOUT PRAYER To pray is to believe that God not only hears, but that He responds. It is to stand in the gap for a broken world, wielding the authority of Christ, empowered by the Spirit, and trusting in the goodness of the Father. The question is not whether prayer works, but whether we are willing to pray the kinds of prayers that invite God's Kingdom into the darkest places of the earth—and of our own hearts. We may never fully understand the mechanics of prayer, or how it intersects with God's sovereignty, but we are not called to understand everything. We are called to be faithful. And faithfulness means showing up—in prayer, in persistence, in expectation. So today, let us pray not only for the comfort of our hearts, but for the transformation of the world. Let us take our place as image-bearers, co-laborers, and co-heirs. Let us believe that God is still listening—and still acting. Because He is. There's only one way to find out what might happen when we truly pray like this. Let's begin. THE MINDSET BEHIND THIS COURSE Before we begin, let me tell you the obvious: I don't really know how to pray. I'm a humble student and absolute beginner at the holy endeavor that is prayer. So, this course isn't really about what I've learned, or any wisdom I might have gathered. But, I've sat at the feet of many prayer warriors over the decades, through books and teachings. So, I'll share what I learned from them. Humility is going to be our primary heart posture! With each lesson, I will offer a few thoughts, practices, and ideas – with much humility, and not taking myself too seriously. I will also share her favorite books and resources about prayer. FInally, I will introduce you to some of the most influential prayer warriors of our history as the Body of Christ. Most importantly, I will invite YOU to pray! Learning to pray comes from praying. Our humble ambition is to inspire you to pray, and to give you a few tips on how to do that. Then, it's up to you! Prayer is a lifelong endeavor. Let's make it delightful together! So, let's get started. You are invited to join us on the Gospel Spice Prayer Bible Study, titled "The heart behind prayer" starting September 20, 2025! Details and registration here: https://www.gospelspice.com/prayer  There are a few things in our Christian life that we know we should do more, or at least better – and prayer just might top the list. Prayer is a mystery. Why would a conversation with a human have any influence on God's eternal, sovereign plan? It defies logic, and beckons love. How can God, the Almighty Lord of Hosts, be this close, this personal? It defies understanding, and beckons involvement. But, lack of time, inspiration, and discipline, combined with the ruthless tyranny of our busy lives, push prayer to the periphery, to the “one day I'll get to it” pile. And yet, we can excel at what we endeavor to undertake. So, why isn't prayer more of a spiritual priority? Could we develop a mindset around prayer that made it attractive, inspiring, even maybe delightful? What if we attuned our spiritual ears to listen to God, and our spiritual eyes to see His provision? As an unassuming student, I'm going to humbly offer to share the little I have learned from others about the joy of prayer. I will give us theology, practical tips, and useful resources, sharing what works for me as we, together, learn to pray. If you find prayer intimidating, or if your lack of prayer makes you feel guilty or “less than,” then this is the place for you! If you have been a student of prayer for many years, this is the place for you too! If you have breath in your lungs, then prayer can become one of the deepest joys of your day. Don't miss out! A PERSPECTIVE ABOUT PRAYER To pray is to believe that God not only hears, but that He responds. It is to stand in the gap for a broken world, wielding the authority of Christ, empowered by the Spirit, and trusting in the goodness of the Father. The question is not whether prayer works, but whether we are willing to pray the kinds of prayers that invite God's Kingdom into the darkest places of the earth—and of our own hearts. We may never fully understand the mechanics of prayer, or how it intersects with God's sovereignty, but we are not called to understand everything. We are called to be faithful. And faithfulness means showing up—in prayer, in persistence, in expectation. So today, let us pray not only for the comfort of our hearts, but for the transformation of the world. Let us take our place as image-bearers, co-laborers, and co-heirs. Let us believe that God is still listening—and still acting. Because He is. There's only one way to find out what might happen when we truly pray like this. Let's begin. THE MINDSET BEHIND THIS COURSE Before we begin, let me tell you the obvious: I don't really know how to pray. I'm a humble student and absolute beginner at the holy endeavor that is prayer. So, this course isn't really about what I've learned, or any wisdom I might have gathered. But, I've sat at the feet of many prayer warriors over the decades, through books and teachings. So, I'll share what I learned from them. Humility is going to be our primary heart posture! With each lesson, I will offer a few thoughts, practices, and ideas – with much humility, and not taking myself too seriously. I will also share her favorite books and resources about prayer. FInally, I will introduce you to some of the most influential prayer warriors of our history as the Body of Christ. Most importantly, I will invite YOU to pray! Learning to pray comes from praying. Our humble ambition is to inspire you to pray, and to give you a few tips on how to do that. Then, it's up to you! Prayer is a lifelong endeavor. Let's make it delightful together! So, let's get started. Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

For more information on the Franklin TN chapter of the New Canaan Society, go here: https://newcanaansociety.org/franklin/ Steve Cummings, founder of Bringing Kingdom, has a passion for helping men fully realize their true identity as beloved sons and live out of it daily. He's been doing it for over 30 years, and as an extension of this passion, he's also helping to restart the Atlanta chapter of NCS. Steve spent 16 years as a radio producer for such programs as “Breakpoint” with Chuck Colson and “Insight for Living” with Chuck Swindoll. Currently he's employed with Redeemer City to City, which was co-founded by Tim Keller. He and his wife Julia are the hosts of The Parent Pivot Podcast, which helps parents of adult children pivot from parenting to partnering.

How will ICE recruiting impact what is happening in Albuquerque? Shutout by Tim Keller? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if I told you that diabetes doesn't have to be a life sentence? In this episode of the Visibly Fit Podcast, I sit down with Timothy Keller, who went from facing a devastating diabetes diagnosis to completely reversing it—without relying on a stack of prescriptions.Tim shares his raw and real journey, from unhealthy habits and a shocking lab report to discovering the healing power of God's design through whole foods and lifestyle medicine. Not only did he restore his own health, but he also founded U.S. Diabetes Care to help thousands of others break free from the cycle of “sick care” and step into true health.This conversation is so much more than just about diabetes. It's about hope, faith, and realizing that your health choices impact generations to come. Whether you're facing a diagnosis, struggling to make lasting changes, or simply want to prevent disease and feel your best, this episode will give you both the inspiration and the tools to take charge of your health.Chapters:[00:00] Podcast Preview[01:34] Topic and Guest Introduction[05:10] Tim's Personal Health Journey[08:32] The Birth of U.S. Diabetes Care[12:45] Revolutionizing Diabetes Education[16:08] Understanding Diabetes Types[20:02] The Emotional Aspect of Health[23:30] Encouraging Change in Others[26:04] Telehealth and Accessibility[30:05] Continuous Glucose Monitoring Technology[33:50] Tim's Bold Final Encouragement[37:38] Final Thoughts and ResourcesResources mentioned:

This week on New Mexico in Focus, we zero-in on Albuquerque's upcoming mayoral election a one-on-one interview with incumbent Tim Keller. NMiF Show Host Nash Jones asks Keller why voters should elect him for an unprecedented third consecutive term.Podcast Host: Lou DiVizioNMiF Show Host: Nash JonesGuest: Tim Keller, Albuquerque Mayor

Bài Giảng: Tái Định Nghĩa Công ViệcDiễn giả: Tim KellerDịch và lồng tiếng: Ánh Sáng Nơi Thương TrườngBốn quan điểm của Tim Keller về công việc theo Kinh Thánh:Đức tin mang lại cho bạn sự ổn định nội tại, nếu không có nó thì công việc có thể hủy hoại bạn.Đức tin mang lại cho bạn khái niệm về phẩm giá và giá trị của mọi công việc, ngay cả những công việc đơn giản, nếu không có nó thì công việc có thể khiến bạn nhàm chán.Tất cả mọi công việc đều là công việc tốt (tất nhiên, trừ một vài trường hợp ngoại lệ).Cách làm việc của một Cơ Đốc nhân là làm việc đó thật tốt.Đức tin mang lại cho bạn kim chỉ nam đạo đức, nếu không có nó thì công việc có thể làm bại hoại bạn.Đức tin mang lại cho bạn một thế giới quan và nhân sinh quan định hình bản chất công việc của bạn, nếu không có nó thì công việc có thể chiếm hữu và lợi dụng bạn.Kênh mục vụ nơi làm việc chia sẻ những bài giảng và thông điệp ý nghĩa từ các diễn giả Cơ đốc, nhằm phục vụ cộng đồng Cơ đốc nhân tại Việt Nam trong môi trường làm việc. Mục tiêu của chúng tôi là phi lợi nhuận, và chúng tôi hy vọng rằng những nội dung này sẽ mang lại sự khích lệ và hướng dẫn cho người xem trong sự phục vụ Chúa tại thương trường.Chúng tôi xin lưu ý rằng một số video có thể chưa được xin phép bản quyền trước khi dịch. Chúng tôi rất mong nhận được sự thông cảm từ các tổ chức giữ bản quyền. Nếu có bất kỳ vấn đề gì liên quan đến bản quyền, xin vui lòng liên hệ với chúng tôi qua email: mygenvn @gmail.com Xin cảm ơn.The Workplace Ministry (Muc Vu Noi Lam Viec) Youtube channel provides inspiring sermons and messages from Christian speakers, specifically designed to uplift and support the Christian community within Vietnam's professional landscape, where resources for Christian teaching are often limited. As a non-profit initiative, our mission is to offer encouragement and spiritual guidance for believers striving to serve God in their workplaces.Please note that some videos may not have obtained formal copyright permissions prior to translation. We appreciate the understanding and forgiveness of copyright holders. If you have any concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us at mygenvn@gmail.com.Thank you for your support!#Tim Keller #lanhdao #anhsangnoithuongtruong #congviec #dinhnghia

Bài Giảng: Tái Định Nghĩa Công ViệcDiễn giả: Tim KellerDịch và lồng tiếng: Ánh Sáng Nơi Thương TrườngBốn quan điểm của Tim Keller về công việc theo Kinh Thánh:Đức tin mang lại cho bạn sự ổn định nội tại, nếu không có nó thì công việc có thể hủy hoại bạn.Đức tin mang lại cho bạn khái niệm về phẩm giá và giá trị của mọi công việc, ngay cả những công việc đơn giản, nếu không có nó thì công việc có thể khiến bạn nhàm chán.Tất cả mọi công việc đều là công việc tốt (tất nhiên, trừ một vài trường hợp ngoại lệ).Cách làm việc của một Cơ Đốc nhân là làm việc đó thật tốt.Đức tin mang lại cho bạn kim chỉ nam đạo đức, nếu không có nó thì công việc có thể làm bại hoại bạn.Đức tin mang lại cho bạn một thế giới quan và nhân sinh quan định hình bản chất công việc của bạn, nếu không có nó thì công việc có thể chiếm hữu và lợi dụng bạn.Kênh mục vụ nơi làm việc chia sẻ những bài giảng và thông điệp ý nghĩa từ các diễn giả Cơ đốc, nhằm phục vụ cộng đồng Cơ đốc nhân tại Việt Nam trong môi trường làm việc. Mục tiêu của chúng tôi là phi lợi nhuận, và chúng tôi hy vọng rằng những nội dung này sẽ mang lại sự khích lệ và hướng dẫn cho người xem trong sự phục vụ Chúa tại thương trường.Chúng tôi xin lưu ý rằng một số video có thể chưa được xin phép bản quyền trước khi dịch. Chúng tôi rất mong nhận được sự thông cảm từ các tổ chức giữ bản quyền. Nếu có bất kỳ vấn đề gì liên quan đến bản quyền, xin vui lòng liên hệ với chúng tôi qua email: mygenvn @gmail.com Xin cảm ơn.The Workplace Ministry (Muc Vu Noi Lam Viec) Youtube channel provides inspiring sermons and messages from Christian speakers, specifically designed to uplift and support the Christian community within Vietnam's professional landscape, where resources for Christian teaching are often limited. As a non-profit initiative, our mission is to offer encouragement and spiritual guidance for believers striving to serve God in their workplaces.Please note that some videos may not have obtained formal copyright permissions prior to translation. We appreciate the understanding and forgiveness of copyright holders. If you have any concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us at mygenvn@gmail.com.Thank you for your support!#Tim Keller #lanhdao #anhsangnoithuongtruong #congviec #dinhnghia

The Gateway Center is not going anywhere, how should the city manage it after the City Counsel approved more money for homeless resources. Tim Keller said, what? What was UNM Health doing at the State Fair. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Listen along as we continue our series through the book of Acts. Notes//Quotes: Acts 14:1-28 Assumption: Every day for Jesus' first followers were God-soaked. Something is wrong with me, or I am doing something wrong because I don't have many God-soaked days.  Reality: Scripture authors recorded a truncated history to show us who God is. Jesus and the first followers experienced many mundane days.  Contextualization is not - as is often argued - ‘telling people what they want to hear.' Rather, it is giving people the Bible's answers, which they may not at all want to hear, to questions about life that people in their particular place and time are asking, in language and forms they can comprehend, and through appeals and arguments with force they can feel, even if they reject them - Tim Keller

Captured from our outdoor worship Sunday in September 2025. This sermon considers Galatians 6:7-10 and the wisdom of sowing and reaping. Special thanks to Jack Wellman, Brennan Manning, Tim Keller, and others. The post In Due Season appeared first on Plymouth Meeting Church.

In this message on Exodus 4, recorded at TGC's 2011 National Conference, Tim Keller discusses the significance of the Red Sea crossing in the Old Testament and its connections to the New Testament, emphasizing that salvation is about freedom from bondage on different levels. Redemption is about getting out of bondage, and grace is the means of getting out.

Bài Giảng: Chinh Phục Các Thành Phố Cho Chúa Giê-suDiễn giả: Tim KellerChuyển ngữ: Đội ngũ Ba-rúcLink:    • Reaching Your City with the Gospel — Tim K...  Nếu một thành phố có một hội thánh cho mỗi 10.000 người, thì sẽ có khoảng 1% dân số đi hội thánh. Nếu có một hội thánh cho mỗi 1.000 cư dân, thì sẽ có khoảng 12% đến 17% dân số đi hội thánh. Nếu chúng ta có thể giảm tỷ lệ đó xuống còn một hội thánh cho mỗi 500 cư dân, thì con số đó có thể tăng lên tới 40%. Nên cách để số lượng Cơ Đốc nhân tăng nhanh và ngày càng trở thành một nguồn ảnh hưởng để đem đến ân điển và chân lý trong thành phố, là chúng ta phải mở thật nhiều hội thánh. Tim Keller nói về tầm quan trọng của việc truyền bá Phúc âm đến các thành phố. Ông bắt đầu bằng cách thảo luận về những lý do khác nhau để tiếp cận các đô thị, bao gồm ảnh hưởng ngày càng tăng của chúng đối với thế giới, sức hấp dẫn của chúng đối với các thế hệ trẻ và cơ hội tiếp cận những người nghèo cùng khả năng thay đổi hoàn cảnh của họ. Ông nhấn mạnh tầm quan trọng của việc hiểu những lời dạy của Kinh thánh về các thành phố và văn hóa, cùng với sự cần thiết phải nhạy cảm với bối cảnh của những người xung quanh.Keller nhấn mạnh vai trò của các hội thánh ở thành thị và những khác biệt vốn có của chúng so với các hội thánh ở ngoại ô. Ông khuyên các hội thánh thành thị nên hướng tới sự công bằng và yêu thương những người hàng xóm, có sức hấp dẫn rộng rãi và nhận thức được sự khác biệt về văn hóa. Các hội thánh thành thị được khuyến khích tiếp cận với cộng đồng của họ, ngay cả khi không phải tất cả mọi người trong những cộng đồng đó đều có cùng niềm tin.g. ---------------------------------Anh chị em có thể nghe bài giảng audio của Giảng Luận Kinh Thánh tại địa chỉ sau:Spotify: https://sum.vn/HybEqApple podcast: https://sum.vn/SccJBGiảng Luận Kinh Thánh là dự án dịch thuật/lồng tiếng sang tiếng Việt các bài giảng, thông điệp Cơ Đốc kinh điển của những diễn giả đã được thời gian khẳng định và cộng đồng Cơ đốc chung xác nhận. Đây là dự án phi lợi nhuận nhằm cung cấp nguồn tư liệu cho các tôi tớ cùng con dân Chúa tham khảo và sử dụng miễn phí. Để hiểu hơn về chúng tôi vui lòng truy cập website :https://giangluankinhthanh.net/Đội ngũ Giảng Luận Kinh Thánh hoan nghênh mọi đề nghị cộng tác của quý con cái Chúa khắp nơi trong các lĩnh vực như dịch thuật, lồng tiếng, quảng bá, cầu thay, v.v. Nếu quý con cái Chúa sẵn lòng đóng góp công sức của mình vào bất cứ lĩnh vực nào, cùng đồng công trong những sứ điệp giúp tỉnh thức nhiều người.Xin vui lòng điền thông tin cá nhân vào biểu mẫu sau: Kênh Giảng Luận Kinh Thánh hoạt động vì các mục tiêu phi lợi nhuận, không phát quảng cáo. Vì vậy, chúng tôi mong tiếp tục nhận được sự dâng hiến và ủng hộ của quý con cái Chúa khắp nơi trong việc phát triển kênh. Quý vị có thể dâng hiến theo thông tin trong biểu mẫu sau: https://sum.vn/ZZ19mNếu bạn muốn dâng hiến cho các hoạt động của Kênh, xin vui lòng chuyển khoản cho chúng tôi vào số tài khoản dưới đây:Tên tài khoản: Nguyen Thanh Tung - Nguyen Dinh HungSố tài khoản VND: 0010174709250 Số tài khoản USD: 0200143705194 Tên ngân hàng: Ngân hàng MB Bank – Chi nhánh Hoài Đức (Military Commercial Joint Stock Bank - Hoai Duc Branch)SWIFT CODE: MSCBVNVXXin chân thành cảm ơn!#Giangluankinhthanh #TimKeller #caunguyen #baigiangtinlanh #sudiepcodoc #chinhphuc #thanhphoKhám phá podcast

Bài Giảng: Chinh Phục Các Thành Phố Cho Chúa Giê-suDiễn giả: Tim KellerChuyển ngữ: Đội ngũ Ba-rúcLink:    • Reaching Your City with the Gospel — Tim K...  Nếu một thành phố có một hội thánh cho mỗi 10.000 người, thì sẽ có khoảng 1% dân số đi hội thánh. Nếu có một hội thánh cho mỗi 1.000 cư dân, thì sẽ có khoảng 12% đến 17% dân số đi hội thánh. Nếu chúng ta có thể giảm tỷ lệ đó xuống còn một hội thánh cho mỗi 500 cư dân, thì con số đó có thể tăng lên tới 40%. Nên cách để số lượng Cơ Đốc nhân tăng nhanh và ngày càng trở thành một nguồn ảnh hưởng để đem đến ân điển và chân lý trong thành phố, là chúng ta phải mở thật nhiều hội thánh. Tim Keller nói về tầm quan trọng của việc truyền bá Phúc âm đến các thành phố. Ông bắt đầu bằng cách thảo luận về những lý do khác nhau để tiếp cận các đô thị, bao gồm ảnh hưởng ngày càng tăng của chúng đối với thế giới, sức hấp dẫn của chúng đối với các thế hệ trẻ và cơ hội tiếp cận những người nghèo cùng khả năng thay đổi hoàn cảnh của họ. Ông nhấn mạnh tầm quan trọng của việc hiểu những lời dạy của Kinh thánh về các thành phố và văn hóa, cùng với sự cần thiết phải nhạy cảm với bối cảnh của những người xung quanh.Keller nhấn mạnh vai trò của các hội thánh ở thành thị và những khác biệt vốn có của chúng so với các hội thánh ở ngoại ô. Ông khuyên các hội thánh thành thị nên hướng tới sự công bằng và yêu thương những người hàng xóm, có sức hấp dẫn rộng rãi và nhận thức được sự khác biệt về văn hóa. Các hội thánh thành thị được khuyến khích tiếp cận với cộng đồng của họ, ngay cả khi không phải tất cả mọi người trong những cộng đồng đó đều có cùng niềm tin.g. ---------------------------------Anh chị em có thể nghe bài giảng audio của Giảng Luận Kinh Thánh tại địa chỉ sau:Spotify: https://sum.vn/HybEqApple podcast: https://sum.vn/SccJBGiảng Luận Kinh Thánh là dự án dịch thuật/lồng tiếng sang tiếng Việt các bài giảng, thông điệp Cơ Đốc kinh điển của những diễn giả đã được thời gian khẳng định và cộng đồng Cơ đốc chung xác nhận. Đây là dự án phi lợi nhuận nhằm cung cấp nguồn tư liệu cho các tôi tớ cùng con dân Chúa tham khảo và sử dụng miễn phí. Để hiểu hơn về chúng tôi vui lòng truy cập website :https://giangluankinhthanh.net/Đội ngũ Giảng Luận Kinh Thánh hoan nghênh mọi đề nghị cộng tác của quý con cái Chúa khắp nơi trong các lĩnh vực như dịch thuật, lồng tiếng, quảng bá, cầu thay, v.v. Nếu quý con cái Chúa sẵn lòng đóng góp công sức của mình vào bất cứ lĩnh vực nào, cùng đồng công trong những sứ điệp giúp tỉnh thức nhiều người.Xin vui lòng điền thông tin cá nhân vào biểu mẫu sau: Kênh Giảng Luận Kinh Thánh hoạt động vì các mục tiêu phi lợi nhuận, không phát quảng cáo. Vì vậy, chúng tôi mong tiếp tục nhận được sự dâng hiến và ủng hộ của quý con cái Chúa khắp nơi trong việc phát triển kênh. Quý vị có thể dâng hiến theo thông tin trong biểu mẫu sau: https://sum.vn/ZZ19mNếu bạn muốn dâng hiến cho các hoạt động của Kênh, xin vui lòng chuyển khoản cho chúng tôi vào số tài khoản dưới đây:Tên tài khoản: Nguyen Thanh Tung - Nguyen Dinh HungSố tài khoản VND: 0010174709250 Số tài khoản USD: 0200143705194 Tên ngân hàng: Ngân hàng MB Bank – Chi nhánh Hoài Đức (Military Commercial Joint Stock Bank - Hoai Duc Branch)SWIFT CODE: MSCBVNVXXin chân thành cảm ơn!#Giangluankinhthanh #TimKeller #caunguyen #baigiangtinlanh #sudiepcodoc #chinhphuc #thanhphoKhám phá podcast

On today's program, Warren Smith has one of his periodic “lightning round” talks with Michael Reneau of The Dispatch. This time, they dig into celebrity Christians, including Jen Hatmaker, Doug Wilson, Chip and Joanna Gaines, and others. They also discuss how Tim Keller is sort of an antidote to that, the “anti-celebrity celebrity. They also discuss recent articles at The Dispatch regarding artificial intelligence, and a whole lot more.   We mention a couple of articles in the program. Here are links: Patrick McNamara on AI Bonnie Kristian's article on Private Religion  Joseph Polidoro's article on Creative Destruction Before joining The Dispatch, Michael Reneau was the editor of WORLD Magazine. He also served as editor of the award-winning paper The Greenville Sun, based in Greenville, Tennessee. He is married and he and his wife have four children. The producer for today's program is Jeff McIntosh. Until next time, may God bless you.

THIS EPISODE In this episode, Rob and Vinnie begin a discussion of Jesus and the poor. They respond to the assertion that Jesus said, "The poor you will always have." They do so by looking at the OT context for this quote and argue that the people of God are called to be advocates for a just society in which "there shall be no poor among you" (Deut 15:4). What does this mean for the Church?  Rob recommended:  Michelle Alexander, The New Jim Crow Bryan Stevenson, Just Mercy Vinnie also noted: Tim Keller, Generous Justice    FOLLOW THE PODCAST Subscribe to be notified of our new episodes (each Monday).  Want to help us expand the Gospel of the Kingdom? Leave a review, “like” the podcast, or share it with others. CONNECT WITH DETERMINETRUTH MINISTRIES The Determinetruth Podcast is a ministry of Determinetruth Ministries. We offer free resources to equip pastors, leaders, and the body of Christ in the US and worldwide for service in the kingdom of God. You can visit us online at www.determinetruth.com Check out our YouTube Library, where we have even more content! SUPPORT DETERMINETRUTH MINISTRIES Determinetruth is a non-profit 501(c)(3), and relies completely on the financial support of our partners around the world.  If you would like to make a tax-deductible donation and help partner with us, please VISIT US HERE     Please "follow" this podcast and give a review on iTunes, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Your review will go a long way toward helping others find this podcast. Then share it with others so that we can get the word of the Gospel of the Kingdom to more people!   We continue to refuse to hide these podcasts behind a paywall. We can only do this if those of you who have been blessed by them and can afford to give ($5, $10, $25, or $1million or more/month) do so. You can give a tax-deductible contribution by following this link.     Good news: the determinetruth App: If you wish to view these podcasts on your smartphone through the Determinetruth app simply download the “tithe.ly church” app on your smartphone. As it downloads you will be asked “What church do you want to connect with”—insert “determinetruth” as the church name you wish to follow (and Mesa as the city if needed). Then you will be asked if you want the tithe.ly logo or the Determinetruth logo—choose the Determinetruth logo. Once it finishes installing, you will be good to go.   Finally, we just want to say thank you for listening in and supporting the work of determinetruth. If you have any questions that you would like us to address, we would love to hear them. Use the contact page on Determinetruth.com If you have been blessed by these episodes, we want to encourage you to make sure you follow this podcast, share it with others, and post a review. By posting a review you make it easier for others to find the podcast on Google searches. If you would like to have Rob and/or Vinnie speak at your church or organization in person or via Zoom, please let us know by filling out the contact info on the Contact me tab on the determinetruth.com site. If you have questions that you would like addressed in future episodes, you may submit them in the Contact me tab on this site.

When marriage feels tired or transactional, it's time to return to the Source. In this Sunday Recalibration, discover how identity alignment before God creates intimacy that lasts — even when life feels loud and connection feels distant.Most high-capacity couples didn't enter marriage hoping to become roommates. You wanted real connection. Enduring intimacy. A shared rhythm that felt as grounded as it was loving.But over time — especially in the weight of parenting, leadership, and the constant pressure to do more — that intimacy can erode. Not always dramatically. Sometimes, it's just a quiet drifting.And before you know it, you're managing logistics more than connection… showing up out of duty instead of desire.This Sunday Recalibration invites you to remember what marriage was meant to be — not a performance, but a sacred covenant. Not a contract of convenience, but a reflection of God's relational nature.Drawing on Ephesians 5, Genesis 2, the wisdom of Tim Keller and Dan Allender, and her own personal story, Julie Holly shares how vertical identity alignment is the only foundation strong enough to hold a marriage — especially in seasons of weariness, role fatigue, or emotional distance.Inside today's episode: • Why deeper intimacy starts with God, not with marriage work • How Identity-Level Recalibration supports both spiritual and relational repair • Why performance and control block presence — and how to return to truth • A 3-part Micro Recalibration to help you reconnect at the rootThis episode is for every couple craving restoration — and for the high performers quietly carrying relational fatigue behind closed doors. Whether you're faith-filled or simply curious, this is a space where sacred truth meets real-life application.Micro Recalibration:In what ways have I made marriage about performance or control — instead of covenant?Where do I need to return to God with my identity — so I can return to my spouse with grace?What would shift in our intimacy if I saw my spouse as a reflection of God's image — and myself the same?Linked Resources:Seven Principles to Making Marriage Work by John Gottman PhD and Nan Silver The Deep-Rooted Marriage: Cultivating Intimacy, Healing, and Delight by Dr. Dan B. Allender If this episode gave you language you've been missing, please rate and review the show so more high-capacity humans can find it. Explore Identity-Level Recalibration→ Follow Julie Holly on LinkedIn for more recalibration insights → Schedule a conversation with Julie to see if The Recalibration is a fit for you → Download the Misalignment Audit → Subscribe to the weekly newsletter → Join the waitlist for the next Recalibration cohort This isn't therapy. This isn't coaching. This is identity recalibration — and it changes everything.

What is an idol, really? In this episode, Mark Vance and Emily Jensen continue the Ten Commandments series by looking at God's command to have no other gods before him. Together, they unpack what idolatry means, why it's more than statues or images, and how it shows up in the everyday loves and pursuits of our lives.Drawing from Scripture and voices like Tim Keller, they discuss how easily good things become ultimate things, why our hearts are prone to wander, and how God calls us to a better love—a love rooted in Him alone.Episode Highlights:00:00 — Introducing the commandment against idolatry04:30 — What an idol really is: taking the verbs of life away from God11:10 — How good things become “god things”17:45 — Insights from Tim Keller's Counterfeit Gods on modern idolatry24:20 — How God's commands redirect our love back to Him30:00 — Practical ways to identify and confront idols todayResources:Cornerstone Church SermonsTim Keller, Counterfeit GodsElyse Fitzpatrick, “Idols of the Heart”

Who is calling out Tim Keller when it comes to what he did with his state of the city address and campaign funding? A throwback to Haircut 100! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How many keys to the city has Tim Keller handed out? Labor Day protests? BV talks blues with Chris Wyze. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Matt Smethurst has listened to and studied more hours of Tim Keller's preaching and teaching than almost anyone alive. In this conversation, Matt gets us inside Tim Keller's mind, breaking down what made Keller's preaching so effective, his DNA, and even his rule of life.

Daily Dose of Hope August 25, 2025   Scripture – Luke 11:1-13   Prayer:  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 trespassed against us.  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.    Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, a deep dive into the Gospels and Acts.  Today, we dive into the first portion of Luke 11.   Today, we have some very important teaching on prayer.  On one hand, prayer is simple–its talking to God. It is basic, it's central to who we are as Christ-followers. For Christians, prayer is as necessary as breathing. You can't maintain a relationship with anyone without communication, the same is true with God.   On the other hand, prayer is complicated.  What exactly should we pray for and what should we not pray for?  Do we always pray for healing?  Do we pray to get that new job?  Do we pray for our favorite team to win?  That seems a bit self-serving.  And while prayer is simply talking to God, are there certain ways we should go about it?  In the Sermon on the Mount, we know Jesus says not to pray like the Pharisees who stand in public and pray loud, flowery prayers, to receive attention and admiration from others.  Prayer is never about impressing others.  It's always about sincerely connecting with God.    So, for what are we supposed to pray? How does God want us to pray?    There is so much we don't understand about prayer. But the disciples were in the same boat. In our scripture today, the disciples saw Jesus praying and asked him, “Lord, teach us to pray.  And Jesus gives them a beautiful template for how to pray intentionally and for what to include in that prayer.  Of course, we call this the Lord's Prayer.   This is how Jesus breaks it down:   ·      Our Father in heaven – Jesus teaches us to start the  prayer with some kind of words about who God is to us.  He is my father in heaven. We tend to think of heaven as far off place, but in Greek, the word heaven was equivalent to the sky and all that is in it.  By saying my father in heaven means that God is close to me.   ·      Hallowed be your name – Here we are saying that God is holy, he is worthy, and we give thanks for all he has done for us.   ·      Your kingdom come – We've talked a lot about God's Kingdom so you know the Kingdom was the way God always intended his world to be, it is the place where Jesus is ruler and his values are in practice – love, justice, mercy, righteousness, and so forth.  In saying this, we are asking to be part of making God's Kingdom a reality right here, right now.   ·      Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven - What I find interesting is that we haven't asked God for anything yet! We are half-way through this prayer template and we haven't even gotten to a list of stuff we want or need. We've just been affirming who God is, thanking him, and praying that we can be part of making his will a reality here on earth.   ·      Give us today our daily bread – Now we are getting to the asking. But notice, we aren't asking for filet mignon, it's simply our daily bread. It's asking God to provide for us what we need for today. This is where we struggle in western culture at times, asking for what we need and what is good for us, not everything we want.  I certainly ask God for what I want (probably too often really) but when I do, I have to recognize that he is going to do what is best for me.  There is a much bigger picture that I can't see.   ·      And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors - Unconfessed sin drives a wedge in our relationship with God.  Unforgiveness does the same.  It breeds bitterness; it's like a poison that can move throughout the body.    ·      And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one - Although God doesn't tempt us, we recognize that we are easily tempted, and we need God to help direct our paths.    This is a wonderful template that allows us to be sincere and intentional in our prayers.  It includes important elements that encourage us to acknowledge who God is to us, making his Kingdom a reality on earth, not allowing our asking to get too extravagant, being sure to address forgiveness, and even thinking about temptations.  I want us to be careful, though, about not getting legalistic about it.  Jesus isn't saying that every single prayer must follow this format.  His disciples have asked for help in praying and he is offering them some guidance.  But we can look at Jesus' prayers to the Father and see that he doesn't always pray exactly like this.  Sometimes, we simply need to pray what's on our heart.   What else do we learn from today's reading about prayer?  Well, Jesus continues with some parables.  He tells a story about a man who needs some bread for a friend who is visiting.  He goes to the neighbor's house and asks for bread but the neighbor doesn't want to be bothered.  It was late and the kids were in bed.  But the man keeps banging on the door until the neighbor gets up and gives him the bread he needed.    Pray persistently.  Keep on praying, don't just pray one time and stop. If you truly need something, if God has laid it on your heart, then don't stop praying. How often have we prayed and prayed for something and then stopped?  It seems God isn't listening or isn't willing to give us this desire.  But Jesus is clear – don't get disappointed and don't stop praying.  Be the annoying neighbor who keeps banging on God's door.   We also learn to pray expectantly.  Ask, seek, knock.  Pray expecting that God will answer your prayer. I can remember a woman in Cuba who prayed for help with her business.  She pleaded with the Lord to offer her assistance so she could earn money and care for her family.  She just knew that God would do this for her.  And then we arrived not long after and gave her some assistance to get started.    And yet, this is difficult scripture. Some of you might be thinking, “Well, I prayed for my mother, or my son, or my husband to be healed and I prayed both persistently and expectantly, and it didn't work. Things didn't turn out, the relationship is still broken, or they still succumbed to their illness.  My own dad was convinced that God would heal him from ALS.  He told everyone who would listen that God was going to heal him.  But he did die an earthly death, just two years after his diagnosis. I believe he did receive a healing; it just wasn't the earthly healing we all desired.   What are we to make of this?  I think part of it is understanding the context. Just as Jesus often used parables in his teaching, he also used hyperbole.  Hyperbole, as many of you know, is an overstatement or an exaggeration, and this was a common way of explaining things at that time, in that particular culture.  We, on the other hand, are products of twenty-first century modern life. In our culture, we tend to read everything very literally. And this isn't a bad thing–we just need to consider that Jesus was trying to make a point.   The reality is that this world would be even more chaotic if Jesus' words on prayer were meant to be taken literally. For instance, if we could just pray to have money and it appeared, well, then why work? If we could just pray to have an A on a test without studying for it, then everyone would have A's and grades wouldn't really have much meaning. That doesn't mean we don't pray, and it doesn't mean we don't pray boldly, because God intends for us to do so, but it means we know that prayer isn't a get rich quick scheme or a way to get all our dreams to come true.  It is a way to communicate with and get closer to God, a way for God to sustain us, a way to know that God is always with us. Pray expectantly because prayer does change things, but not always the way we want them to be changed. Pray expectantly because God always answers prayers, sometimes just not the way we want them to be answered.    There are certainly examples of unanswered prayer in the New Testament.  The most obvious one is the apostle Paul, the greatest Christian missionary of all time. In 2 Corinthians 12:7-10, Paul speaks of having a thorn in his flesh and pleading with God to take it away.  We don't know what this thorn was, but we do know it was extremely painful.  Paul says this, beginning in verse 8, “Three different times I begged the Lord to take it away. Each time he said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me. That's why I take pleasure in my weaknesses, and in the insults, hardships, persecutions, and troubles that I suffer for Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”   Paul, although he prayed hard for this thorn to be removed, eventually came to the place in which he knew God would not remove this malady because it would help him grow into the person God wanted him to be. He also rested in the assurance that although he had to deal with this weakness, God would walk with him every step of the way.   Then, there is the incredible example of Jesus in his last hours in Luke 22, praying for God to remove the cup from him, to take away the terrible suffering and death he would experience the next day – trial, torture, and then the cross. But we know God did not take that cup from him...rather, it was used to redeem the world.   Really, I think the bottom line is that prayer is an act of surrender. In our on-going relationship with God, it's an act of trust.  There is really no other way to put it.  We are declaring, “You are my God, I am your child. I need you.”  Tim Keller, a brilliant pastor and writer, wrote this, “To pray is to accept that we are, and always will be, wholly dependent on God for everything.”   That's probably more than enough for today.  Let's chat again tomorrow.   Blessings, Pastor Vicki

John 7:25-52,Some of the people of Jerusalem therefore said, “Is not this the man whom they seek to kill? 26 And here he is, speaking openly, and they say nothing to him! Can it be that the authorities really know that this is the Christ? 27 But we know where this man comes from, and when the Christ appears, no one will know where he comes from.” 28 So Jesus proclaimed, as he taught in the temple, “You know me, and you know where I come from. But I have not come of my own accord. He who sent me is true, and him you do not know. 29 I know him, for I come from him, and he sent me.” 30 So they were seeking to arrest him, but no one laid a hand on him, because his hour had not yet come. 31 Yet many of the people believed in him. They said, “When the Christ appears, will he do more signs than this man has done?”32 The Pharisees heard the crowd muttering these things about him, and the chief priests and Pharisees sent officers to arrest him. 33 Jesus then said, “I will be with you a little longer, and then I am going to him who sent me. 34 You will seek me and you will not find me. Where I am you cannot come.” 35 The Jews said to one another, “Where does this man intend to go that we will not find him? Does he intend to go to the Dispersion among the Greeks and teach the Greeks? 36 What does he mean by saying, ‘You will seek me and you will not find me,' and, ‘Where I am you cannot come'?”37 On the last day of the feast, the great day, Jesus stood up and cried out, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink. 38 Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, ‘Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.'” 39 Now this he said about the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were to receive, for as yet the Spirit had not been given, because Jesus was not yet glorified.40 When they heard these words, some of the people said, “This really is the Prophet.” 41 Others said, “This is the Christ.” But some said, “Is the Christ to come from Galilee? 42 Has not the Scripture said that the Christ comes from the offspring of David, and comes from Bethlehem, the village where David was?” 43 So there was a division among the people over him. 44 Some of them wanted to arrest him, but no one laid hands on him.45 The officers then came to the chief priests and Pharisees, who said to them, “Why did you not bring him?” 46 The officers answered, “No one ever spoke like this man!” 47 The Pharisees answered them, “Have you also been deceived? 48 Have any of the authorities or the Pharisees believed in him? 49 But this crowd that does not know the law is accursed.” 50 Nicodemus, who had gone to him before, and who was one of them, said to them, 51 “Does our law judge a man without first giving him a hearing and learning what he does?” 52 They replied, “Are you from Galilee too? Search and see that no prophet arises from Galilee.”It's a busy time of year! It marks the ending of one season and the beginning of another — and so there's a lot of excitement in the air! People are grateful for how God has provided in the past; they're hopeful for how God will provide in the future. And that of course is what the Feast of Booths is all about — that's what's going on here in Jerusalem in John Chapter 7.We saw the mention of “The Feast of Booths” last week in verse 2, but I want to circle back to it this week because it's vital context for our passage today.The Feast of Booths was one of the great festivals that God commanded for Israel in the Book of Leviticus. The people would build booths (temporary shelters) and live in them for a week to remember how God provided for them way back after the exodus, and how he continued to provide for them (see Lev. 23:33–43; Deut. 16:13–15).This feast would come at the end of the agricultural year — the seventh month — which is roughly September on our calendar. So for your imagination: the events of our passage today happened around this time of year.So picture this: Jerusalem is packed with people who've come from all-over for this festival; all the kids got on their new back-to-school clothes; and they're having a week-long party — except this year was different because the whole city is abuzz with talk about this man named Jesus. And we can catch the commotion here just by a simple reading — we heard about Jesus's brothers at the start of this chapter, and then we hear about “the Jews,” “the people,” “the crowds,” “some of the people of Jerusalem,” “the Pharisees,” “the chief priests,” “the officers,” “the authorities,” and finally “Nicodemus.”Now there's overlap in some of these groups, but John uses each of these different words to describe what's going on, and the impression he gives us is that there's a whole bunch of different people talking about Jesus. They all want to know who he is, and everybody's got their own opinion. So Chapter 7 is a cacophony of questions about Jesus, and he's right in the middle of it … and we are too.This is the brilliance of God's word. As the readers of this story, we know things that the characters in this story don't know. We call this dramatic irony — and John, who wrote this Gospel, is a master of it! John lets us overhear everyone's questions about Jesus, all while he's already told us the truth about Jesus — we have the fuller perspective, and John means to involve us! He draws us into this story as readers and he gives us a part — there are ways he expects us to respond. I wanna tell you three.For the sermon, I want to tell you three ways we should respond to the buzz about Jesus in Chapter 7. And here's what's at stake: if you do these three things, it will change your life. 1. Give Jesus a hearing. We're going to actually start with the ending. Everybody find verse 45. This is the last debate of the chapter, between the chief priests, the Pharisees, and the officers. We see that word “officers” a few times. Other translations call these officers the “temple guard” or even “temple police.” We should imagine them as basically temple mall cops. Their job was to keep things in order around the temple, but they didn't carry guns.And well, back in verse 32, the chief priests and Pharisees told these temple mall cops to go arrest Jesus. The Pharisees kept hearing the crowds talk about Jesus and they had enough, so they said, Go get him and bring him in. Now everybody look at verse 45: The officers then came to the chief priests and Pharisees, who said to them, “Why did you not bring him?” The officers answered, “No one ever spoke like this man!”The chief priests and Pharisees did not like this answer. The mall cops came back without Jesus, and their defense for why they didn't arrest him was: This man is different! We don't know the full details here, but apparently these guys got close enough to Jesus to take him, but they were enamored by his words (which is a good first step toward faith) — but the Pharisees weren't having it. They attacked these guys. Look at verse 47: The Pharisees answered them, “Have you also been deceived? Have any of the authorities or the Pharisees believed in him? But this crowd that does not know the law is accursed.”The Irony of NicodemusNow this is important — I need everybody to track with me here. In verse 47, I want you to see that the Pharisees are suggesting a contrast between themselves and the crowd — and we have to see the contrast in order to see the deep irony going on here.When the Pharisees ask if the authorities or Pharisees believed in Jesus, that's a rhetorical question (the implied answer is Of course not!).They're saying: The crowd might believe in Jesus because they don't know any better — they're a bunch of dummies! But we're smart! (That's my paraphrase.) Let me read you another paraphrase of these verses, to help us really see what's going on here. Verse 46: The police answered, “Have you heard the way he talks? We've never heard anyone speak like this man.” The Pharisees said, “Are you carried away like the rest of the rabble? You don't see any of the leaders believing in him, do you? Or any from the Pharisees? It's only this crowd, ignorant of God's Law, that is taken in by him—and damned.” (Verses 46-49, The Message)See what they're saying?That is all meant to set up verse 50. Everybody find verse 50.Okay, somebody tell me the first word in verse 50 … Nicodemus!Interesting! We know who he is! We met Nicodemus back in Chapter 3. John tells us in John 3:1,“Now there was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews.” Nicodemus was a Pharisee and a ruler, which were different. There's historical evidence that confirms that Nicodemus belonged to an extremely prominent Jewish family in the First Century. They had incredible wealth and aristocratic influence — in almost every worldly metric you could imagine. Nicodemus was a big deal.And in Chapter 3, he came to Jesus one night, in private, with a bunch of questions. And Jesus told him that you have to be born again by the Holy Spirit, and he told him that “God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” Jesus said that to Nicodemus, but then Nicodemus disappears from the story. We don't know how he responded … he doesn't show back up until now, in Chapter 7, verse 50. So catch this:The Pharisees say: Look, knuckleheads! You don't see any of us Pharisees believing in Jesus do you?The next verse starts, “Nicodemus …” Verse 50,Nicodemus, who had gone to him before, and who was one of them, said to them, “Does our law judge a man without first giving him a hearing and learning what he does?”This is the most reasonable sentence spoken by any of the characters in this chapter. Nicodemus says, Give him a hearing. It's that simple. Before you dig in your heels on who you think Jesus is, hear him out. See what he's about.Nicodemus is basically saying, Do what I did. The Pharisees think none of their own have believed in Jesus, but they don't know what we know! Actually, one of their best and brightest had believed, and in verse 50 he's telling them how he took that step: Give Jesus a hearing. Said for Us!And I want us to understand that Nicodemus says this for us. The Pharisees don't budge. They're that hardened. They even take a dig at Nicodemus in verse 52 by saying he's from Galilee — they know where Nicodemus was from. They're insulting him. So the Pharisees don't hear Jesus; the question is: will we?Will we hear Jesus out?We have to. You've heard me say this before about the late Tim Keller — a pastor in New York for decades. I agree with him when he said the magnitude of Jesus's claims and the magnitude of his historical impact demands every thoughtful person to hear him out. Because of what Jesus said and what he did, you can't just doubt him from a distance, you have to look closer. Keller gives the illustration: he says imagine you get a letter in the mail from one of the biggest law firms in the country and it says, “Dear [your name], Please call us as soon as possible. You are a long-lost heir of the British throne. These assets and mansions belong to you.” You might think that's ridiculous, but you're going to look into it, right? You're gonna at least make a phone call? The magnitude of the claim is too great not to hear it out.And so it is with Jesus. We must at least hear him out. That's what Nicodemus says. Give Jesus a hearing.This is the second way we should respond to this story …2. Give Jesus your thirst.Jump back to verse 37. Verses 37–39 are the high point of this chapter. It's the concluding words of Jesus in this scene, and I want you to notice something in verse 37 — Jesus didn't just reply and give an answer this time, but he stood up and “cried out” — and that same word for “cry out” in verse 37 is translated “proclaim” in verse 28. It's the exact same verb in verses 28 and 37 and it means to say something with a loud voice.So if we were to track the speaking moments of Jesus in this chapter, from the start of the chapter to its end, it goes like this … it starts in verse 6. Verse 6: “Jesus said to them”Verse 16: “Jesus answered them”Verse 21: “Jesus answered them”Verse 28: “Jesus proclaimed”Verse 37: “Jesus stood up and proclaimed”There's an escalation happening. Jesus literally gets louder until in verse 37 he stands up and gets loud. So this is the high point! All eyes are on him!And the setting, again, is important. Verse 37 starts by telling us this happened “On the last day of the feast, the great day” — What feast? What is John talking about?This is the Feast of Booths — remember verse 2? The “Feasts of Booth was at hand” — and now in verse 37 John is making a connection between that feast and what Jesus says here. So what is that? What's the connection?Pointing to HimWell, remember the Feast of Booths was about recognizing God's provision for Israel after the exodus. Israel wandered through the desert for forty years and God met their needs, and one of those big needs, we know, was water. The people were thirsty and God gave them water to drink — and part of this feast highlighted that provision! So we know that on this last day of the feast, people were thinking about water. The people were remembering and celebrating God's provision of water in the wilderness, and so with water literally on their minds, Jesus stands up in the middle of that and he cries out:“If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink! Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, ‘Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.'”Jesus is saying he's the one this feast has been pointing to this whole time. It's always been about him. He is God's true and ultimate provision for our ultimate thirst!It's amazing that Jesus did this. He caused this scene and said these words to make clear that the people's thirst is not just a thing of history, but they still thirst. He knows it. They know it. There is no modesty here. No riddles to solve. No hard sayings. Jesus is yelling. He's loud:If you're thirsty — and I know you thirst — that's why I've come!And I can almost hear the earnestness in his voice — hoarse with sincerity … heavy with seriousness … hopeful to save. He's speaking both invitation and fact. And everyone hears him, but do we hear him? Do we learn what he does?Mining Our Own ThirstImagine your own life for a minute. Something true about all of us, as human beings, is that we are glory-chasers and pleasure-seekers. This means we all want to matter and we all want to be happy. I know that about you. We all have this desire, this void, this thirst, and we can't help but try to fill it. That's what we're all doing, all the time, but the problem is that left to ourselves, we try to satisfy that thirst with everything but God. And this is not only misguided, it's evil. That's the way the Bible talks about it. The prophet Jeremiah says, Jeremiah 2:12, Be appalled, O heavens, at this; be shocked, be utterly desolate, declares the Lord, 13 for my people have committed two evils: they have forsaken me, the fountain of living waters, and hewed out cisterns for themselves, broken cisterns that can hold no water. (Jeremiah 2:12–13)Do you see? In our sin, we reject God, we abandon him, but then we go looking everywhere else for the satisfaction only he can provide. And we don't just do this one time, but over and over again. Every time we sin we are looking for the God we've forsaken. It's been said that when the young man rings the doorbell at a brothel he's actually looking for God. So what doorbells are you ringing? Where are you letting your thirst take you?I ask this for Christians and non-Christians. How badly do you want the approval of man? Do you crave relationships at all costs? Do you compromise conviction for thrills?Think about this, and I want you to imagine that in the middle of all of it, in the middle of everywhere you might be searching, Jesus is there and he stands up.In the noise of the crowd and the silence of your room, in the pressure of your work and the ache of your heart, in the high places of success and the low places of failure — Jesus stands up in that and he says over all those things, “If you thirst come to me. Come to me and drink.”Let's hear him. And then give him your thirst … right now. If you've never put your faith in Jesus, you can do that now. Just tell him.I don't wanna thirst anymore. I'm done with this search. Jesus, I believe in you. I rest in you. That is the invitation of our passage today. Give Jesus a hearing; give Jesus your thirst; and here is #3 — give Jesus to others. 3. Give Jesus to others. This is the verse 38. Jesus says that whoever believes in him, as the Scripture has said, “Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.”And right away, we should just name it. This is not what we would maybe want Jesus to say. We might think something else would fit better, something like:Believe in me and live happily ever after! — wouldn't that be nice?!Believe in me and your house won't burn, your wife won't get cancer, your children won't be sick … Believe in me and you won't be condemned — and that's true, Jesus has said that — but here he says if you believe in him, it's not about what you get but what you can give. You will have living water flowing out of your heart! And John adds in verse 39 a little clue for us: Jesus is talking about the Holy Spirit. Everyone who believes in Jesus will receive the Holy Spirit. Jesus will say a lot more about the Spirit in Chapter 14, but I'll go ahead and tell you one thing he says: he says the Holy Spirit is God the Father and God the Son making their home in you (John 14:13). The Holy Spirit is the love of the triune God poured into your heart — and how do you think that looks?Stagnant Pond or Flowing River?This summer my family spent a few days at my parents' house in North Carolina. They live in the country: fields, woods, paths, and ponds. And there's this big pond tucked way down out of sight. You go down this path, past an old house, deep into the woods, and then suddenly there's an opening and there it is. It's a big pond (probably called a lake in Minnesota). It's named after my great-grandfather. And it used to be the place to go. It had a sandy beach and they built a tall diving board — 50 years ago my mom and her friends would hang out there. But you'd never know that now. It's been inactive for years, and it shows. The edges of the pond is covered in green algae, the surface is spooky still, mosquitoes rule the place. The water looks dead and you've seen water like that before — now is that your heart? Is your heart more like a stagnant pond or is it like a river? …The Holy Spirit makes one kind of heart. Saved to GiveJesus says that the one who believes in him, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water! So he satisfies you and then he pours out through you into the lives of others. Now what does that mean? How does that look?How does the Spirit in us affect the way we relate to others? We know it must mean the fruit of the Spirit! The Spirit makes us people of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness , faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. The Spirit produces all of those things in our hearts in our relationships with others, but really, ultimately, the Spirit in us means that we give Jesus to people. That's what we're trying to do.Jesus has given us himself to be shared. He has poured his Spirit into our lives to flow through us into the lives of others. We get more of him so that others get him through us! Don't you want to live that way?! We're just a conduit of God's grace for others!Look, God doesn't save you for yourself — he saves you for his glory and your good — and your good is realized not in your getting, but in your giving!And church, some of you need to hear that because you think you don't have anything to give. You've been fooled or discouraged into thinking your heart is a stagnant pond, but it's not. Not according to Jesus. Christian, you have the Holy Spirit. Let today be the day God stirs anew the living water in your heart. Hey, it's a busy time of year. It's the end of one season and beginning of another — and there's a lot of excitement in the air. We start school tomorrow. And church, for this new season, let's ask God for a fresh filling of his Spirit! That's what we need! For his glory and our good! Here's how we respond to the buzz about Jesus in Chapter 7: Give Jesus a hearing.Give Jesus your thirst.And by his Spirit flowing in us, give Jesus to others. And we come to this Table in that hope.The TableThis Table is about receiving — we receive Jesus and his fellowship, and remember all that he's done for us in his life, death, and resurrected life. But we don't receive him to stop here. We receive him and then overflow!

QUOTES FOR REFLECTION“Grace puts its hand on the boasting mouth, and shuts it once for all.”~Charles Spurgeon “Certainly we should be very active in seeking God, and Jesus himself called us to ‘ask, seek, knock' in order to find him. Yet those who enter a relationship with God inevitably look back and recognize that God's grace had sought them out, breaking them open to new realities.”~Tim Keller “A man can no more take in a supply of grace for the future than he can eat enough today to last him for the next 6 months, nor can he inhale sufficient air into his lungs with one breath to sustain life for a week to come. We are permitted to draw upon God's store of grace from day to day as we need it.”~Dwight L. Moody “Your worst days are never so bad that you are beyond the reach of God's grace. And your best days are never so good that you are beyond the need of God's grace.”~Jerry Bridges “When the worst thing you could ever imagine happens, there is something that was not there in your imaginings—and that is the grace of God.”~Elisabeth Elliot SERMON PASSAGE7 Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith. 8 Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. 9 Do not be led away by diverse and strange teachings, for it is good for the heart to be strengthened by grace, not by foods, which have not benefited those devoted to them. 10 We have an altar from which those who serve the tent have no right to eat. 11 For the bodies of those animals whose blood is brought into the holy places by the high priest as a sacrifice for sin are burned outside the camp. 12 So Jesus also suffered outside the gate in order to sanctify the people through his own blood. 13 Therefore let us go to him outside the camp and bear the reproach he endured. 14 For here we have no lasting city, but we seek the city that is to come. 15 Through him then let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge his name. 16 Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God. 17 Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you. 18 Pray for us, for we are sure that we have a clear conscience, desiring to act honorably in all things. 19 I urge you the more earnestly to do this in order that I may be restored to you the sooner.

What if your next act of generosity could transform not just someone else's life, but your own? That's exactly what happened when a simple meal bought for a homeless man became a divine appointment that changed everything.God's heart for the poor isn't a minor theme in Scripture—it's emphasized in over 2,000 verses, far more than faith or prayer. Yet many of us struggle to understand how this applies to our comfortable modern lives. Through the powerful parable of the rich fool, Jesus challenges our culture's definition of success. This man, who built bigger barns to store his wealth and planned to "take life easy," is called a fool by Jesus. The villain in Jesus' story is our culture's hero.What drives our relationship with money? For many, especially those who grew up with scarcity, it's not greed but fear—fear of not having enough, fear of poverty, fear of disaster. Jesus offers a radically different perspective: "Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom." This abundance mindset transformed the early church into a community where "there were no needy persons among them."The early Christians practiced regular, intentional generosity toward those in need—not just with money but with time and relationship. This "financial promiscuity," as Tim Keller called it, created a revolutionary community in a Roman world where no moral values encouraged the rich to share with the poor.How do we practice this kind of generosity when the poor are often invisible in our comfortable neighborhoods? Those in need are not objects of pity or projects to manage—they're brothers and sisters in Christ. Our goal isn't just to give resources but to create a new kind of family that blurs the lines between giver and receiver.Support the showMade a decision to follow Jesus? We want to know about it! Fill out our connect card here: https://local.churchcenter.com/people/forms/115766Thank you for your generosity. For information on how to give, visit https://localvineyard.church/give.

Maybe you know Tony Hale as the bumbling Buster Bluth on Arrested Development. Or maybe you know him as the bag-toting assistant to Julia Louis-Dreyfus' Selina Meyer on Veep. You might even know him as the googly-eyed Forky in Toy Story 4 or Riley's Fear on Inside Out.  No matter how you've come across him before, perhaps you haven't heard him like this. In this episode, Tony Hale joins Russell Moore for a candid conversation about anxiety, art, faith—and why he's drawn to characters who never quite have it all together. Hale opens up about his personal journey through grief and doubt, and how these experiences shaped both his faith and his creativity. He reflects on the healing power of storytelling, the importance of making space for emotions we often suppress, and what it means to parent children through grief and suffering. Together, Moore and Hale explore the themes of Hale's new family film Sketch, a story about a girl who processes loss by drawing monsters. But this isn't just a kids' movie—it's an honest look at pain, beauty, and what it means to sit with discomfort. Hale shares why he wanted to make a film that respects the emotional complexity of children and adults alike. They also talk about the influence of Tim Keller, Tony's early years as an actor, the inner development of his iconic roles (be aware, there could be some spoilers!), and how to choose roles and shape a career as a Christian in Hollywood. And be sure to listen until the end, when Tony shares insights on how to be the one Christian among nonbelievers and how to show the love of Christ with authenticity.  This is a warm, thoughtful conversation about surrender, sacred imagination, and how telling the truth might be one of the most redemptive acts we can offer the world. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What happens when a movement built on moral seriousness gives way to one powered by cruelty, resentment, and nihilism? In this episode, New York Times columnist David Brooks joins to talk about what he calls one of the greatest ruptures of his lifetime: the implosion of the conservative movement's moral center. Drawing from his widely discussed essay in The Atlantic “I Should Have Seen This Coming,” Brooks offers a deeply personal—and deeply unsettling—account of how a reactionary fringe rose to power and reshaped American public life. Together, Moore and Brooks trace the descent from Burkean virtue to clickbait outrage, from civic institutions to “own-the-libs” performance art. But this conversation doesn't stop at diagnosis. The two turn toward questions of cultural repair and spiritual renewal: Is there any real possibility of revival—in literature, in politics, in faith? What might it look like to recover a moral vision strong enough to resist the acid of our age? And what role could Christians play in offering a better way? Along the way, they talk about why the next spiritual awakening might not look like the last one, the legacy of Tim Keller, how we can engage in conversations on issues of the soul, how the Trump White House culture is different from other presidents' and whether AI is really going to change American life as much as Moore thinks it will. This is a candid, searching conversation about what it means to be human in a disordered world—and what kind of moral courage is needed to hold fast when the center does not. Resources mentioned in this episode or recommended by the guest include: David's Atlantic article, I Should Have Seen This Coming Buckley: The Life and the Revolution That Changed America by Sam Tanenhaus David's article that talks about Alasdair MacIntyre in The Atlantic, Why Do So Many People Think Trump is Good? Diminish Democracy by Julian J. Rothbaum The Revolt of the Elites and the Betrayal of Democracy by Christopher Lasch  David's New York Times Article: When Novels Mattered  David's novel suggestions: Crossing to Safety by Wallace Stegner War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy  Selected Essays by Samuel Johnson  Middlemarch by George Eliot Keep up with Russell: Sign up for the weekly newsletter where Russell shares thoughtful takes on big questions, offers a Christian perspective on life, and recommends books and music he's enjoying. Submit a question for the show at questions@russellmoore.com  Subscribe to the Christianity Today Magazine: Special offer for listeners of The Russell Moore Show: Click here for 25% off a subscription. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices