Podcasts about trusting christ

Title: “Who Commands the Waves and Wind?” Part 1 Text: Acts 27:1-12 FCF: We often struggle enduring in faith when we face circumstances, we know God could spare us from. Prop: Because God's providence often includes opposition from forces of nature, we must look beyond ourselves to endure in faith. Scripture Intro: Turn in your bible to Acts chapter 27. It is even more important for you to turn there today considering that there will be no text on the screen. In a moment, I will read the first 36 verses of Acts 27 from the Legacy Standard bible. You can follow along in the pew bible or in whatever version you prefer. As we hasten onward toward the end of this study in the book of Acts, one which has taken us over two years to get to this point, Luke ushers us toward the final episodes of this last Act of his narrative. Luke's purposes have never been to provide a strict history of the early church. Instead, he has written to confirm to a man named Theophilus, and by extension all believers in Jesus Christ, that what we have believed is true and dependable. In this final Act, Luke has not so subtly shown how God is in control of all things and works all things according to the counsel of His will to accomplish His purposes and complete His story of the world which He has already written. Paul has no more criminal trials to face save one. A hearing before Emperor Nero in Rome. A hearing granted to all Roman citizens who appeal to Caesar. And so, in what could have been a short 24 day trip, we will see that God has other things planned for this apostle. Please stand with me to focus on and give honor to the Word of God as it is read. Invocation: Most Gracious, Holy, Loving, and Powerful God. You are Alpha and Omega. You are the first and You are the last. From You all of creation has life and by You all of creation consists. There is not one rogue molecule in creation for You control everything for Your glory and for Your purposes. In a day and an age when such doctrines are derided and hated by natural men and even despised by some who claim to be Your people, I pray that we would find comfort and peace in believing that nothing happens without Your plan and consent and without some purpose for which You have established before the foundation of the World. Help us today to see these truths in spite of what our eyes see… we pray this in Jesus' name… Amen. Transition: Let's get right to the text this morning. I.) God's providence often includes opposition from forces of nature, so we must trust the Lord. (1-8) a. 1 - Now when it was decided that we would sail for Italy, they proceeded to deliver Paul and some other prisoners to a centurion of the Augustan cohort named Julius. 2 - And getting aboard an Adramyttian ship, which was about to sail to the regions along the coast of Asia, we set sail accompanied by Aristarchus, a Macedonian of Thessalonica. 3 - The next day we put in at Sidon, and Julius treated Paul with consideration and allowed him to go to his friends and receive care. 4 - And from there we set sail and sailed under the shelter of Cyprus because the winds were against us. i. So, after 2 years of waiting for the Lord Jesus' words to come to pass, that Paul would go to Rome to preach the gospel, it seems that Paul is finally on his way. ii. Paul, along with other prisoners, was transferred into the guard of a centurion who would have been stationed in Judea. A centurion of the Augustan cohort. iii. Luke no doubt provides this information to us to establish secular witness to the events that he is about to describe in the next chapter and a half. iv. Many of the events that follow are quite unbelievable. But Luke has provided enough information to track this Roman Centurion down and ask him directly if such things have occurred. v. Julius charts a merchant ship from Adramyttium, a city in a bay across from the island of Lesbos between Troas and Pergamum. vi. Why does he chart a merchant ship? vii. Quite simply, there was no other way to travel by sea in the Roman Empire. There were vessels of commerce and vessels of war. There was no such thing as passenger vessels. viii. This ship's destination was to travel the coast of Asia minor, no doubt heading back to the Adramyttium. ix. Luke also lists two more of Paul's companions who joined him on this trip and would serve as eye witnesses to all that happened. The first is very obvious. 1. Aristarchus, a Macedonian from Thessalonica, is probably the same Aristarchus who was dragged into the theater to face the rioting crowds in Ephesus in Acts 19. a. Aristarchus is also said to have accompanied Paul to Jerusalem on his most recent visit that has turned into a 2-year plus endeavor. b. It is impossible to know if Aristarchus has been in Jerusalem or Caesarea since Paul was imprisoned. But he seems to have been in Caesarea in time to join Paul on his trip to Rome. 2. The second companion is harder to spot, but since you all are very perceptive people, I'm sure you have spotted Luke in this text. a. In verse 1 it says “we would sail” meaning of course that Paul's companion Luke would join him on this trip too. b. So, both Luke and Aristarchus would be eye witnesses to the events that would follow. x. They sail 70 nautical miles to the city of Sidon in Syria. xi. The church had spread to Sidon some time ago. xii. Julius allowed Paul to leave the ship, probably with a soldier to escort him as waited for the next departure of the Adramyttium ship. xiii. No doubt these believers gave supplies to Paul and his companions for their journey. xiv. But verse 4 delivers a key theme for us in this entire maritime adventure narrative. xv. The winds were against this journey. We see great opposition to this trip from the winds of the Mediterranean Sea. And that opposition will only intensify. xvi. This Adramyttian ship endeavored to sail along the coast of Syria, but instead headed out to sea to be sheltered from the northwestern and western winds by the island of Cyprus. b. 5 - And when we had sailed through the sea along the coast of Cilicia and Pamphylia, we landed at Myra in Lycia. 6 - There the centurion found an Alexandrian ship sailing for Italy, and he put us aboard it. 7 - And when we had sailed slowly for a good many days, and with difficulty had arrived off Cnidus, since the wind did not permit us to go farther, we sailed under the shelter of Crete, off Salmone; 8 - and with difficulty, we sailed past it and came to a place called Fair Havens, near which was the city of Lasea. i. Sailing between Asia minor and Cyprus along the coast, the Adramyttium ship landed at its next port, Myra of Lycia. ii. No doubt the next stop for this ship would have either been Adramyttium itself or possibly Ephesus. And it probably would not leave for some time… perhaps not even until after winter. iii. Therefore, Julius is forced to chart another ship whose destination would be Italy. iv. We find that Julius charts an Alexandrian ship. These were from the city of Alexandria and would transport grain throughout the Roman Empire, but especially to Rome. v. Having landed in Myra, this ship either came up the coast, past Judea and Syria, and had landed in Myra seeking to head west, or perhaps headed north straight through the Mediterranean toward the easily visible mountainous coast of Asia Minor. vi. We can read between the lines of Luke's record here to understand that the sailing was anything but smooth or predictable. vii. From Cnidus, which was a common port city having two ports, one on the North and one on the South, either they aimed to sail across the Aegean, potentially to Corinth or Athens or perhaps they did intend to sail to the northern edge of Cete to go around the Balkan Peninsula. viii. But because of the dangerous gales, they were forced to once again seek the shelter of the large island of Crete sailing south past the cape of Salmone. ix. Once again, we see the difficulty of the trip and how the forces of nature seem to oppose the will of Jesus and the intention of His apostle. x. With much trouble and very slowly they finally arrive at a southern port on the island of Crete known as Fair Havens near the city of Lasea. c. Summary of the Point: In this maritime adventure which Luke records for us, we could very easily lose the forest for the trees if we are not careful. We could get wrapped up in the adventure of the storm tossed ship and miss the greater message that Luke is revealing to Theophilus and all believers needing assurance that what they have believed is firm and solid. Jesus told Paul 2 years ago that he would go to Rome to preach the gospel… and now the very wind and sea oppose him getting there. But as the sermon title asks… who commands the wind and the sea? John Chrysostom, an early church father said of this passage of scripture, “See how God does not alter or change the order of nature but allows him to sail into unfavorable winds. But even so the miracle happens.” John Chrysostom Homilies on the Acts of the Apostles. In another work he says, “Again trials, again contrary winds. See how the life of the saints is so composed of all these things: he escaped the court, and they fall into a shipwreck and a storm.” John Chrysostom Catena on the Acts of the Apostles. In these two quotes Chrysostom conveys what Luke's aim of this story is. Paul has been shipwrecked before. He has spent much time at sea. Why does Luke record this now? Because Luke, in his final chapter, wishes to convey the absolute sovereignty of God to take His Kingdom to the uttermost parts of the earth. But in that sovereignty, it is not merely raw Power that God is displaying… for the purposes of God are not merely to get His apostle to Rome but also to form and shape Paul's faith. As one commentator said, “God could demonstrate His power by stilling the storm (as in Luke 8:24-25) but also by preserving His servant through it...” “Luke's apologetic is not for a legendary divine man; Paul does not still the storm. But the account portrays Paul's character preserving through testing… as well as speaking wisely and rescuing his fellow passengers by God's power.” God commands the winds and the seas… but that doesn't mean He always works miraculously. Indeed, one of the more wonderous miracles God does is providentially sustaining His people through catastrophe. In this the miracle that occurs is our faith and hope, tested and built. Therefore, knowing that God does not always choose to intervene with miracles… but does keep His promises… we must trust the Lord. Transition: But in the midst of trouble and trial, when everything seems to be against us, and when forces that God says He controls seem to be out of His control… it can be very hard for us to trust God and to know what to do next. Although Jesus has gone to the Father to intercede for us, He has both promised to never leave us and to send the comforter. And the comforter is in our hearts and all the hearts of those who believe. Struggling to see where I'm going? Let's look at verse nine. II.) God's providence often includes opposition from forces of nature, so we must heed counsel from wise and godly people. (9-12) a. 9 - And when considerable time had passed and the voyage was now dangerous, since even the Fast was already over, Paul began to advise them, 10 - and said to them, “Men, I perceive that the voyage will certainly be with damage and great loss, not only of the cargo and the ship, but also of our lives.” i. Luke does not track for us the departure date of this trip, nor does he give us any indication of exactly when Portius Festus took office. ii. So, we don't know exactly how long the trip has taken thus far – but he seems to indicate that what began as a doable trip to Rome has become less and less likely. iii. Luke tells us that the Fast was already over. Most likely Luke is referring the Day of Atonement which occurs in late September to early October depending on the year. iv. And the best guess for dating this trip is in AD 59 when the Day of Atonement occurred on October 5th. v. At this time, mid-September to mid-November becomes increasingly more and more difficult to travel the Mediterranean as the winter months approach. vi. After this period virtually all sea travel would cease until around February. vii. According to a Stanford Geospatial Network model of the Roman World, it is estimated that under ideal conditions, Paul would have been able to make the journey from Caesarea to Rome in just under 24 days. viii. Which means that they probably left with at least that amount of time before really difficult sailing conditions would arise. ix. But as Luke indicates here, violent winds began earlier than usual this year and kept them from making any significant progress. Now they face only more difficult sailing conditions as they head further into October and November. x. In light of this, Paul advises those in charge of the ship that this journey will end not only in the loss of the ship and all its cargo, but also in the loss of life. xi. Essentially Paul is advising wintering in Fair Havens and waiting until February to reembark to Italy. xii. In this we have a few questions. First, is Paul speaking the words of prophesy or merely of human wisdom? If it is prophesy, does it come true? If it is wisdom, what makes Paul such an expert that he would advise seasoned merchant sailors? 1. As to the first question, is Paul speaking the words of prophesy or merely human wisdom – we must conclude that this is NOT prophesy. Why must we conclude that? a. Paul predicts that the ship, its cargo, and the lives of the passengers on the ship would experience heavy damage and great loss. b. Peeking ahead a little, we see Paul predict a little later that every life on board the ship would be saved. When he predicts this, he attributes that prediction to the Word of God communicated by an Angel. 2. Therefore, we must conclude that in this instance, Paul speaks merely by his own wisdom. But if that is so, what makes Paul qualified to speak to such matters? a. Having written II Corinthians sometime before going to Jerusalem, Paul has already told us that he had been shipwrecked 3 times and left afloat in the open sea for a night and a day. b. Luke didn't record any of these for us – but it proves that Paul is no novice passenger on a sea faring vessel. c. It also communicates to us the very real danger of travel on the Mediterranean d. Paul's concerns here are not just for the ship and the cargo but for the lives of the people on board. e. Since these ships were ships of commerce, lives didn't always factor in to the decision making of the owners, captains, and crews of these vessels. xiii. And that seems to remain true even after Paul gives his advice. b. 11 - But the centurion was being more persuaded by the pilot and the captain of the ship than by what was being said by Paul. 12 - And because the harbor was not suitable for wintering, the majority reached a decision to set sail from there, if somehow, they could arrive at Phoenix, a harbor of Crete facing southwest and northwest, to spend the winter there. i. Julius, the pilot, and the captain of the ship disagreed. ii. Their reasons are logical but next to the advice of a man of God, they are ultimately quite foolish. iii. The scriptures declare that the wisdom of men is foolishness to God. iv. So, what is the wisdom of men? Unfortunately, it is always tainted by sin. In this particular case… greed. 1. Fair Havens is not a port that provides adequate shelter for wintering. 2. It was not the kind of living conditions the crew desired to spend the next several months. 3. There was a significant risk to the cargo being spoiled or damaged, the ship being beaten up or broken, or even the prisoners escaping. 4. Ultimately the wisdom and logic of men comes down to dollars and cents. v. Instead of heeding the advice of Paul, they determined to get to Phoenix, a port giving great vision to both the South and the Northwest of the Mediterranean. A port right for wintering and one which they could depart from with relative confidence as to their heading. vi. This is the wisdom of men. But it will all go terribly wrong. More on that next week. c. Summary of the Point: Luke's point will continue to be how God's will includes providentially allowing the forces of nature to oppose His people. He preserves us through this, which is a testament to His grace, mercy and power, and He tests and perfects our faith in it. He does not always perform miracles to spare us pain, but miraculously sustains us through pain and difficulty while allowing us to continue to faithfully believe and follow Him, even when it seems as if He is slack in His promises. But as we face these difficult times and days, Paul provides another application for us aside from trusting the Lord. Not only must we continue to trust God in difficult times – but we must also trust the counsel of biblically wise people. Paul provides wise insight. And even though it is not about a “spiritual” or “theological” matter – he should have been heeded. When we face trouble, trial, testing and storms in life, we must look to spiritually mature counselors… NOT JUST for spiritual problems… but for all problems. Why? Because God's Word is sufficient to help us in all things we face. In all life and godliness the Word is sufficient. So, we must go to those who love and live by the Word for advice and counsel. And we must heed their counsel. Conclusion: So CBC, what have we learned today that informs and corrects our beliefs and guides our lifestyles? Basics of Faith and Practice: One common objection raised by skeptics of God is whether or not God can create a boulder so large that He could not lift it. It is not typically a question asked in good faith. For regardless of the answer, they think they've proven that He is not all powerful. Whenever someone asks a question that begins with “Could God…” you know immediately that the question is flawed. Why? Because God can… ALWAYS. There is nothing that is impossible with God. Ability is NEVER the question. The real question is about the will of God. And that is demonstrated right here in this text? Could God have stopped the storms? Could God have calmed the sea? We know He could. Why? Because He already did it. The Spirit of God moved on the face of the chaotic waters when He formed the earth. God the Father parted the Red Sea to allow the Israelites to walk on dry land. The Son of God stretched His hand out and said, “Peace, be still” And calmed a storm. My friends the question is NEVER “Can God?” it is always “Will God?” For whatever reason… God allows catastrophe to happen to all men… even His own children. Even His own apostles. Even… His own Son. He allows natural forces and even men's sinful nature to do many things to oppose His children. And we can guess at the whys of that… but maybe for today, we don't need to answer the question why. Because why isn't the right question! Paul addresses a similar argument in Romans 9 when some might complain that they were not elected for salvation and wonder why God judges them for something He did not choose for them to have. Paul says, essentially, you are asking the wrong question. How dare you question God. The right question… is what. In the midst of natural forces opposing me in doing what I know the Lord wishes me to do… What do I do? And this text provides two answers for us. One hinted and the other overtly stated. We must continue to trust the Lord's promises and we must heed the counsel of wise and godly people. But let me expand a bit on this. A few applicational groceries for you to make some spiritual meals with as the week unfolds. 1.) Refutation: “What lies must we cast down” or “What do we naturally believe, or have been taught to believe, that this passage shows is false?” We must deny that natural forces opposing God's people is a valid reason to question God's Word or character. a. This text alone proves that to question God's promises or God's loving character based on tragic circumstances is absolutely ridiculous. b. God's promises and God's character is not beholden to everything always going right for mankind or even for His chosen people. c. God does work miracles for the sake of His will but He does not ALWAYS do this, nor does He always do miracles in every identical situation that follows that miracle. d. God told Moses to strike the rock and then God told Moses to speak to the Rock. e. Moses struck the Rock twice and both times produced water… but God had OTHER pictures he wished to convey to Moses and to the Israelites by Moses speaking to it instead of striking it. f. Just because God acts differently or allows people to suffer or even die does not mean we are free to begin questioning whether or not God is all good, all powerful, all loving, or all just. g. The creature cannot say such things to the creator. h. His ways are above our ways, His thoughts are higher than our thoughts. i. When we think God has done something unjust… it is because our definition of justice is NOT God's. j. When we think God has done something unloving… it is because our definition of love is NOT God's. k. When we think that God has done something that is not good… it is because our definition of good is NOT God's. l. When we wonder why God didn't do something to prevent catastrophe… it is because we have put God in a box and treated Him as if He is like us… We have made an idol, called it Yahweh, and gotten upset when that fake god doesn't do what we think he should. m. We must repent… not Him. n. God is unchangeable. He does not lie. He does not sin. He is the same as He always has been. o. If life stinks, and catastrophe happens… our conclusion CANNOT be… That God has failed, or that God is a liar. p. This is the height of arrogance and idolatry. q. So what must we believe instead? 2.) Mind Transformation: “What truth must we believe from this text?” or “What might we not naturally believe that we must believe because of what this text has said?” We must affirm that God providentially allows natural forces to oppose His people. a. God is absolutely free in His will to act according to His counsel. He has full freedom to do as He wishes and as He permits to ALL of His creation – including men. b. In His grace, His mercy, and His love – God does not desire the death of the wicked. c. That is a completely BONKERS statement. Of all the people that we should think God would be hunting down and squashing out of existence it SHOULD BE… the wicked. d. God is just… and He will judge them for their sin… But God does not actively seek out and kill wicked men. Why? Because we'd all be dead already. e. And here is another Bonkers statement in the scriptures… f. God's Son guaranteed that any who would follow Him would experience trouble. Jesus does not qualify that statement by specifying what trouble we experience. i. Is the trouble from those who might hate us and persecute us? ii. Is the trouble in the daily walk in living holy lives and turning from sin? iii. Is the trouble the common aches and pains and problems that all men face? g. Based on the entire cannon of scripture I think we'd have to say… YES! All of those. h. The scriptures say that all of creation groans in anticipation of the return of Jesus, the King of glory. i. Do you think violent storms that destroy property and lives are part of the creation's groans? ii. Do you think that diseases and sicknesses, aches and pains are part of the creation's groans? iii. Do you think that violent and wicked acts of men to snuff out life are part of creation's groans? i. My friends… God allows forces of nature to oppose all men, including His people, as a sign to us that things ARE NOT AS THEY SHOULD BE! j. When we experience heartache and trouble and problems and pain it should confirm upon us the blessed hope of our King's inevitable return to make all this right! k. If God always saved His people from calamity in miraculous ways… how strong would our faith be? l. Let me ask another question… If you always lifted everything for your child, including the spoon to their mouths, how much muscle would be on their arms? m. Were they called to lift a baby off the railroad tracks to save its life… they would struggle and strain and all would be lost. n. God knows we grow through adversity. We grow through struggle and pain. Not because He made us that way… but because sin has corrupted us THAT MUCH. o. The depravity of man is not some soteriological belief that only impacts us prior to conversion. p. My friends… sanctification – our growth to be more like Christ is long, difficult, fraught with pain and setbacks BECAUSE OF DEPRAVITY! q. The reformers believed and the scriptures agree that we are simultaneously WICKED SINNERS who have been declared righteous in Christ. We are all recovering pagans whose hearts continue to be factories forming idols on a daily basis. r. Therefore, we must believe that God sovereignly and providentially uses even natural disaster… to accomplish His will. Because His will is not ours. s. So what do we do with that? 3.) Exhortation: “What actions should we take?” or “What is this passage specifically commanding us to do that we don't naturally do or aren't currently doing?” We must continue to trust the Lord. a. Our God has promised that He will never leave us. b. He has promised us that He will seal us until the day of redemption with His Spirit. c. He has promised that He will give grace in a time of need to those who seek it. d. He has promised that He will sustain us to the moment that we have been appointed to die. e. He has promised to raise us up in Christ to join Him in the clouds. f. He has promised that when we join Him there we will always be with Him. g. So we face shipwreck. So we face wicked men shooting at us. So we face disease. So we face loss. So we face death. But we do so, knowing, that God will never forsake the promises He has made to us. We have confidence that if we face these things… God has willed it to be so for some purpose that we may never know. h. We trust Him. i. Trusting Christ does not mean trusting in a list of facts about God. j. Trusting Christ means that when tragedy occurs… we praise the Lord and trust that He is faithful. k. What else should we do? 4.) Exhortation: “What actions should we take?” or “What is this passage specifically commanding us to do that we don't naturally do or aren't currently doing?” We must heed the counsel of wise and godly people. a. Friends, although we have the Spirit of God in us, although Jesus has promised to never leave or forsake us, and although God in three persons is always present everywhere and when… somehow He knew that that would not be enough for our frailty. b. He knows our weakness indeed. c. And He has given us gifts… i. Apostles to form the church 2000 years ago. ii. Prophets to guide the church in its formation iii. Evangelists to expand the kingdom to the uttermost parts of the earth iv. And pastors/shepherds/ Elders to spiritually care for and equip the church locally to do the work of the ministry which is the edification of the body of Christ. d. In addition to that he has given generational mandates to older believers to care for younger believers and counsel and admonish them in spiritual things. e. He has given fathers to spiritually grow their own children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. f. He has given all of God's people His Spirit and promises where two or more are gathered and seeking counsel on some of the most difficult things… He is there. g. My friends… when catastrophe surrounds us. When trouble comes. When hope is fading. When we don't know if we can go on. When we don't know what to do. h. God has given us… the church. i. Not perfect. Flawed. But spiritually maturing and matured people who love and live by God's Word. j. Don't buy into the lie that you must see a specialist in the field of your problems to get help. k. If your problems are medical, financial, relational, emotional… and yes… spiritual… You can rest assured that God's word has something to say about it. And wise and godly believers can help you find it and help you pursue it. 5.) Evangelism: “What about this text points us to Jesus Christ, the gospel, and how we are restored?” Repenting of sin and becoming God's child does not give you a life of peace. In fact, it guarantees you a life of hardship. a. There are gospels going out today that seem to assure you that when you pray a prayer your life will be so much better. b. I just saw that MMA fighter Conner McGreggor recently made some kind of profession of faith in Jesus. He stated Jesus is King and that he has never been so at peace since believing this. c. I don't know his heart. I hope he is God's child. Time will tell. d. But here is what I do know. There is a paradox in the Christian life that all outsiders must see before they seek to enter in. e. Although in one sense being a child of God is the most peaceful, wonderful, glorious, amazing, fulfilling, and satisfying things there is… f. In another sense it is a life full of pain, anguish, struggle, hardship, betrayal, failure, frustration, and rejection. And not just in the sense that it is the normal human experience… but beyond that… being a Christian is directly linked to MORE of these than if you were not a Christian. g. Every single Christian in this room affirms this paradox as true. They have lived it. God's word says it. h. Jesus tells everyone to count the cost. He says that the only way to be His disciple is to take yourself, your desires, your comfort, your plans, your lifestyles, your money, your peace, your hope… and nail it to a cross… kill it brutally. Then follow Him. Then… and only then… can you be His disciple. i. He has paid it all… but make no mistake… it will cost you everything. And to true Christians it is a price… we gladly pay. j. If you have counted the cost and desire to follow Jesus, the Elders in this church would love to talk to you about that. Come see us… and don't dilly dally about it. Let me close with a word of prayer from the Apostolic Constitutions Lord God Almighty and true God, nothing compares to you. You are everywhere, and present in all things, but you are not part of your creation. You are not bound by place, and you do not grow old in time. You are not terminated by the ages. You are not deceived by words, and not created by anything. You require no one to look after you, and you are above all corruption. You are free from change, and by nature you never vary. You inhabit inaccessible light. You are invisible by nature, but are known to all thinking people who seek you with a good mind-your people who truly see and who have believed on Christ. You are the God of Israel. Be gracious to me, and hear me, for the sake of your name. Bless those who bow before you, and grant them the requests of their hearts, for their good. Do not reject any of them from your kingdom. Instead, set them apart for you. Guard, cover, and help them. Deliver them from the adversary, and from every enemy. Keep their houses and families safe, and guard them as they come and go. For to you belongs the glory, praise, majesty, worship, and adoration, and to your Son Jesus, your Christ, our Lord and God and King, and to the Holy Spirit, now and always, forever and ever, amen. Benediction: May the One Who makes the vapors ascend in clouds from earth's remotest end, Whose lightings flash at His commands, Who holds the tempest in His hands. Keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. Until we meet again, go in peace.

Sermon Outline: Jude 1:1-2 (The Marks of A True Christian) The CalledIntroductionNew series: walking through the book of Jude (one chapter, but deeply relevant).Warnings: false teachers infiltrating churches with watered-down doctrine.Today's focus: Jude 1:1 — identity, calling, and assurance in Christ.1. Jude's Identity (v.1a)“Jude, a servant of Jesus Christ and brother of James…”Servant/Bondservant of ChristTerm also used by Paul and James.Means total surrender — either a slave to Christ or a slave to self.Slave to self = never satisfied; slave to Christ = true fulfillment.Brother of JamesJude establishes credibility—linked to James, half-brother of Jesus.Authority matters in warnings against false teachers.Application: Where is your identity rooted? In self or in Christ?2. The Audience (v.1b)“To those who are called…”The Called of GodGod has always called His people (Isaiah 43:1–2).Christians are chosen, redeemed, and set apart to glorify God.Encouragement of SalvationHebrews 7:25 — Jesus lives to intercede for us.Eternal Advocate = eternal security.Application: If you are in Christ, you are called, known, and held by God.3. The Assurance (v.1c)“…beloved in God the Father and kept for Jesus Christ.”Loved by God the FatherHis love is the foundation of our calling.Kept for Jesus ChristBelievers are safe and secure in Him.Eternal security isn't man's idea—it's God's promise.Warning: This only applies to true believers.Shallow prayers, church attendance, or “asking Jesus into your heart” ≠ true conversion.True salvation = repentance, faith, and surrender to Christ alone.Application: Don't play church—get serious about eternity.4. The Mission of the Church (Colossians 1:28)Proclaim Christ — the center of all preaching.Warn everyone — judgment for sin is real.Teach maturity — help believers grow into Christlikeness.Application:Assurance flows from maturity.Childlike faith ≠ childish faith.Open your Bible. Read. Obey. Grow.5. The Danger of Neglecting the WordMany avoid Scripture because it confronts sin.Comfortable flesh resists God's truth.True peace and assurance come only by:Making war on sin.Trusting Christ's finished work on the cross.Walking daily in obedience to His Word.ConclusionJude begins with encouragement: called, loved, and kept in Christ.But this only belongs to true believers.Eternity is real—don't play games with your soul.Main Call: Open your Bible. Trust Christ. Live as one who is called, loved, and kept.

If you're adding anything to the gospel… you might be nullifying it.Most Christians say they believe in salvation by grace—but many live like they still have something to prove. Is that you?In this short but direct message, we walk through Galatians 2—where Paul defends the gospel from the most dangerous threat: adding just enough law to make it feel religious again. He exposes false teachers, confronts Peter face-to-face, and boldly declares the truth that Christ alone is enough.✅ How do you know if your gospel is real?✅ Are you trusting in Christ… or your performance?✅ What does it look like to be truly free?If you're tired of pretending, performing, or being pressured by man-made religion, this message is for you. Don't trade the power of the cross for powerless rules.Watch now—and walk in gospel freedom.#Galatians #GospelTruth #JustificationByFaith #ChristianFreedom #Galatians2 #GraceNotLaw

Understanding the various ways that Scripture speaks of God's will is vital for discerning His purposes in your life and the life of the church. Having a space for these categories will build faith, clarify understanding, and help us grow deeper in God's wisdom from above. 

APR. 3, 2025Today, use your God-given power."You shall receive power." Ac 1:8 NKJVYou say, "If Christ lives in me, why do I still think and act the way I do?" A Christian leader explains: "The answer is illustrated in a story about a lady who had a small house...at the turn of the century. She was quite wealthy but also quite frugal... People were surprised, then, when she decided to be among the first to have electricity in her home. Several weeks after the installation, a meter reader appeared at her door. He asked her if her electricity was working well, and she assured him it was. 'I'm wondering if you can explain something to me,' he said. 'Your meter shows scarcely any usage. Are you using your power?' 'Certainly,' she answered. 'Each evening when the sun sets, I turn on my lights just long enough to light my candles; then I turn them off.' She's tapped into the power but didn't use it. Her house is connected but not altered. Don't we make the same mistake? We, too-with our souls saved but our hearts unchanged-are connected but not altered. Trusting Christ for salvation but resisting transformation. We occasionally flip the switch, but most of the time we settle for shadows. What would happen if we left the light on? What changes would occur if we set about the task of dwelling in the radiance of Christ? No doubt about it: God has ambitious plans for us. The same one who saved your soul longs to remake your heart. His plan is nothing short of a total transformation." "He decided...to shape [our] lives...along the same lines as the life of his Son" (Ro 8:29 MSG). Today, use your God-given power.Today, use your God-given power God has ambitious plans for us.Share This DevotionalSend us a textSupport the showChanging Lives | Building Strong Family | Impacting Our Community For Jesus Christ!

The title is meant to get your attention. However, it is very true that only trusting Christ will not bring about the new birth. The devil has managed to water down the Gospel until most only believe half of it. It is repentance toward God and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ that brings about salvation. Repentance alone will not save anyone, but neither will simply "trusting" Christ for a better life, and a home in heaven when you die. Multitudes, in fact, most of the human race is going to be lost for eternity because they did not turn from their sin to trust in Christ. There is no such thing as saving faith in Christ while you continue in sin; continue being the same person you have always been; continue in hatred and strife and bitterness.

1 Peter 4:12-19   [vv. 12-13] Embracing Christ's Pattern [vv. 14-16] Displaying Christ's Glory [vv. 17-18] Proved as Christ's People [v. 19] Trusting Christ's Father   Apologies for the slight audio cut out in the middle.

We look at Proverbs today (SUNDAY 03/02/25) Today's Sermon will look at Proverbs 3:1-18 "The Blessing of Trusting Christ and Keeping His Word"

Embracing Christ's pattern (v12-13)Displaying Chirst's Glory (v14-16)Proved as Christ's people (v17-18)Trusting Christ's Father (v19)

Day 16: Trusting Christ's Quiet Growth in Us It is only necessary to give ourselves to that life, all that we are, to pray without ceasing, not by a continual effort to concentrate our minds but by a growing awareness that Christ is being formed in our lives from what we are. We must trust ... Read more The post Day 16: Trusting Christ's Quiet Growth in Us – From the writings of Caryll Houselander – Discerning Hearts Podcasts appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.

To learn more about Mission Church go to www.missionlasvegas.com

At Anchorpoint, we are seeking to clarify the Gospel message. The Bible says that you can know for sure that you are saved and ready to meet God. In our message today, speaker Phil Coulson explains how that God's salvation is so simple, even a child can be saved. He tells us the story describing how, as a child, he came to know Christ as his Saviour. We hope that you enjoy this captivating story.

To many people go to church and involve themselves with the church without having ever placed their faith in Christ to save them. Today we talk about know Christ vs trusting Christ. Matthew 7:21-23 James 2:19 Ephesians 2:8 Acts 4:10 Acts 10:43 John 14:6 Ephesians 2:10 Titus 2:14

Thank you for your patience as we had some technical issues with the audio this week.

There is a deadly error that aspiring Christians make. They sincerely attempt to be righteous from the outside without possessing the incarnate Jesus on the inside.  Connect with us: YouTube: YouTube.com/@soul02-oxygen Facebook: @LP.Oxygen https://www.facebook.com/LP.Oxygen Instagram: LP.Oxygen Twitter: @Soul025 Buzzsprout: Soul02-Buzzsprout Spotify: Soul02 - Spotify Apple: Soul02-Itunes Stitcher: Soul02-Stitcher

Megan Donahue grew up in a Mormon family whose roots reach all the way back to the founding of Mormonism. Though she sincerely believed as a child, she was discouraged from thoroughly investigating what she had been taught. Eventually, Megan's beliefs unraveled as she grappled with long-held questions and the burden of works-based religion. Through the mess of doubt, she stepped away from everything she had ever known and asked God to show her the truth. She joins us this week to tell her story of leaving Mormonism and learning to trust Christ.    Who Is Jesus?: A Bible Study on the “I AM” Statements of Christ LifeChange Bible Study Series by The Navigators  Strong Women Podcast Episode 19. How the God of Truth Pursues Us: A Story Out of Mormonism with Sandra Tanner  Shurley English Homeschooling materials  Farmer Boy by Laura Ingalls Wilder  Little Miriam of Galilee by Edith Martin   Valley of Vision: A Collection of Puritan Prayers & Devotions by Arthur Bennett   Don't Sweat the Small Stuff with Your Family: Simple Ways to Keep Daily Responsibilities from Taking Over Your Life by Richard Carlson  Jeanne Robertson American humorist    As Christians, we're called to love God with all our minds, and be transformed by the renewal of our minds. Without a mind that's shaped by God's Word, we'll struggle to champion the truth, beauty, and goodness of God's Kingdom in this time and place. To address this problem, Michael Craven, Vice President of Equipping and Mobilization at the Colson Center has written a brand-new, free e-book called The Christian Mind: Its Necessity to Christian Relevance and Renewal. It's a primer on developing a thoroughly Christian mind for the sake of the Kingdom. If you want a more robust faith that actually shapes how you live in the world today, or if you're wondering why cultivating a Christian mind really matters, you should read this book. Again, it's called The Christian Mind. You can grab your free copy by going to colsoncenter.org/book.   Join us May 14 at 7pm Eastern for Lighthouse Voices with Alisa Childers and Tim Barnett, co-authors of The Deconstruction of Christianity. Faith deconstruction is a growing movement influencing churches and drawing believers from the solid ground of biblical truth. At this event, Alisa Childers and Tim Barrnett will help us understand what deconstruction really is, why it's influencing so many, and how the Church can help those who are wrestling with their faith. You'll be equipped with practical tools to counter the influence of deconstruction and pursue those who are veering toward it. This free event will be held in-person in Holland, Michigan and online via livestream. To RSVP and claim your spot today, go to colsoncenter.org/lighthouse.   The Strong Women Podcast is a product of the Colson Center which equips Christians to live out their faith with clarity, confidence, and courage in this cultural moment. Through commentaries, podcasts, videos, and more, we help Christians better understand what's happening in the world, and champion what is true and good wherever God has called them.  Learn more about the Colson Center here: https://www.colsoncenter.org/   Visit our website and sign up for our email list so that you can stay up to date on what we are doing here and also receive our monthly journal: https://www.colsoncenter.org/strong-women  Join Strong Women on Social Media:   https://www.facebook.com/StrongWomenCC  https://www.facebook.com/groups/strongwomencommunitycc/  https://www.instagram.com/strongwomencc/  https://linktr.ee/strongwomencc     

Romans 3:13-18 Condemnation Under the Law.

The Doctrine of Total Depravity

Romans 2:25-29 Jewish Christians and the Law

The Misplaced Confidence in the Law.

Romans 2:12-16 12 For all who have sinned without the law will also perish without the law, and all who have sinned under the law will be judged by the law.  13 For it is not the hearers of the law who are righteous before God, but the doers of the law who will be justified. 14 For when Gentiles, who do not have the law, by nature do what the law requires, they are a law to themselves, even though they do not have the law. 15 They show that the work of the law is written on their hearts, while their conscience also bears witness, and their conflicting thoughts accuse or even excuse them  16 on that day when, according to my gospel, God judges the secrets of men by Christ Jesus.   因信基督與神和好 -7 外邦人与神的律法 罗马书 2:12-16 12凡沒有律法犯了罪的，也必不按律法滅亡；凡在律法以下犯了罪的，也必按律法受審判。 （ 13原來在上帝面前，不是聽律法的為義，乃是行律法的稱義。 14沒有律法的外邦人若順着本性行律法上的事，他們雖然沒有律法，自己就是自己的律法。 15這是顯出律法的功用刻在他們心裏，他們是非之心同作見證，並且他們的思念互相較量，或以為是，或以為非。）  16就在上帝藉耶穌基督審判人隱祕事的日子，照着我的福音所言。

Forgiveness is received freely through trusting Christ. Trusting Christ involves confessing, and turning away from sin, and embracing God with Joy. 

This sermon covers Romans 2:10-11.

Made Right By Trusting Christ -6 God judges us according to our works Romans 2:6-11 6 He will render to each one according to his works: 7 to those who by patience in well-doing seek for glory and honor and immortality, he will give eternal life; 8 but for those who are self-seeking and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, there will be wrath and fury. 9 There will be tribulation and distress for every human being who does evil, the Jew first and also the Greek, 10 but glory and honor and peace for everyone who does good, the Jew first and also the Greek. 11 For God shows no partiality.     因信基督與神和好 -6 按行为审判 罗马书 2：6-11 6他必照各人的行為報應各人。 7凡恆心行善、尋求榮耀、尊貴和不能朽壞之福的，就以永生報應他們； 8惟有結黨、不順從真理、反順從不義的，就以忿怒、惱恨報應他們； 9將患難、困苦加給一切作惡的人，先是猶太人，後是希臘人， 10卻將榮耀、尊貴、平安加給一切行善的人，先是猶太人，後是希臘人。 11因為上帝不偏待人。

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Romans 2:1-5 1 Therefore you have no excuse, O man, every one of you who judges. For in passing judgment on another you condemn yourself, because you, the judge, practice the very same things. 2 We know that the judgment of God rightly falls on those who practice such things. 3 Do you suppose, O man—you who judge those who practice such things and yet do them yourself—that you will escape the judgment of God? 4 Or do you presume on the riches of his kindness and forbearance and patience, not knowing that God's kindness is meant to lead you to repentance? 5 But because of your hard and impenitent heart you are storing up wrath for yourself on the day of wrath when God's righteous judgment will be revealed.     罗马书 2:1-5 1你這論斷人的，無論你是誰，也無可推諉。你在甚麼事上論斷人，就在甚麼事上定自己的罪；因你這論斷人的，自己所行卻和別人一樣。 2我們知道這樣行的人，上帝必照真理審判他。 3你這人哪，你論斷行這樣事的人，自己所行的卻和別人一樣，你以為能逃脫上帝的審判嗎？ 4還是你藐視他豐富的恩慈、寬容、忍耐，不曉得他的恩慈是領你悔改呢？ 5你竟任着你剛硬不悔改的心，為自己積蓄忿怒，以致上帝震怒，顯他公義審判的日子來到。

Rejection of Knowledge (v.28) The Catalog of Sins (vv.29-31) Knowledge of Judgment (v.32)   拒绝神的知识（第28 节） 罪的種類（第29-31 节） 对神审判的认识（第 32 节）

God's Abandonment (vv.24-25) Manifestations of Sinful Desires (vv.26-27) Conclusion   神的任憑（第24-25 节） 人的恶欲（第26-27 节） 结论

Revelation of God's Wrath (v.18) Natural Revelation and Human Responsibility (vv.19-20) Humanity's Rejection of God (v.21-23) 神的震怒（第18 节） 自然启示与人类责任（第19-20 节） 人拒絕神（第 21-23 节）

11/8/23. Five Minutes in the Word scriptures for today: Romans 3:22b-24. Trusting Christ is the only way to salvation, not by works or obedience to the law. Resources: enduringword.com; biblehub.com; logos.com; Matthew Henry Commentary; and Life Application Study Bible. November 2021 Podchaser list of "60 Best Podcasts to Discover!" Listen, like, follow, share! #MinutesWord; @MinutesWord; #dailydevotional #christianpodcaster Now on Amazon podcasts and Pandora! #prayforpeace

Revelation of God's Wrath (v.18) Natural Revelation and Human Responsibility (vv.19-20) Humanity's Rejection of God (v.21-23)   神的震怒（第18 节） 自然启示与人类责任（第19-20 节） 人拒絕神（第 21-23 节）

Justin Perdue

Some takeaways... The Pharisees attempted to bring accusations against Jesus. Instead of rejoicing over His ability to heal, they found fault with it. Submit your will to the soverign and holy will of God.   If you enjoy the show and want to buy John a coffee, please click here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/johnstange . To read the first three chapters of "Dwell on These Things" by John Stange, click here: https://desirejesus.com/dwellonthesethings . To get a free copy of John Stange's book, "The Mind of Christ - How to make the most of the new perspective, new eyes, and new outlook you've been given through Jesus," please CLICK HERE. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Morning: Sixth Day Morning: The Gospel: https://banneroftruth.org/us/devotional/sixth-day-morning-the-gospel/ Spurgeon's Morning and Evening, October 20, Morning:  https://www.biblegateway.com/devotionals/morning-and-evening/2023/10/20 Jeremiah 35: https://read.lsbible.org/?q=Jeremiah+35 Jeremiah 36: https://read.lsbible.org/?q=Jeremiah+36 1 Timothy 5:  https://read.lsbible.org/?q=1+Timothy+5 Psalm 89:14-37:  https://read.lsbible.org/?q=Psalm+89 Proverbs 25:25-27: https://read.lsbible.org/?q=Proverbs+25 God All-Sufficient: https://banneroftruth.org/us/devotional/gifts-of-grace/ Evening: Confidence: https://banneroftruth.org/us/devotional/confidence/ Spurgeon's Morning and Evening, October 20, Evening:  https://www.biblegateway.com/devotionals/morning-and-evening/2023/10/20 Message: Comfort For Troubled Hearts, Comfort Comes From Trusting Christ's Promise, John 14:13-14 Sixth Day Evening: The Mediator: https://banneroftruth.org/us/devotional/sixth-day-evening-the-mediator/ Resources: Valley of Vision: https://banneroftruth.org/us/store/devotional-books/the-valley-of-vision/ Spurgeon's Morning and Evening: https://www.amazon.com/Morning-Evening-Classic-Daily-Devotional/dp/1683227247/ref=pd_lpo_1?pd_rd_i=1683227247&psc=1 Legacy Standard Bible: https://316publishing.com/ 2023 Reading Plan: https://www.oneyearbibleonline.com/readingplan/oneyearreadingplan_month_per_page.pdf Vail Valley Baptist Church GiveSendGo Campaign Link: https://www.givesendgo.com/vvbc-az-school Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wayne-floyd/support

Morning: Fifth Day Morning: The Giver: https://banneroftruth.org/us/devotional/fifth-day-morning-the-giver/ Spurgeon's Morning and Evening, October 19, Morning:  https://www.biblegateway.com/devotionals/morning-and-evening/2023/10/19 Jeremiah 33: https://read.lsbible.org/?q=Jeremiah+33 Jeremiah 34: https://read.lsbible.org/?q=Jeremiah+34 1 Timothy 4:  https://read.lsbible.org/?q=1+Timothy+4 Psalm 89:1-13:  https://read.lsbible.org/?q=Psalm+89 Proverbs 25:23-24: https://read.lsbible.org/?q=Proverbs+25 God And Myself: https://banneroftruth.org/us/devotional/god-and-myself/ Evening: Divine Support (212) Spurgeon's Morning and Evening, October 19, Evening:  https://www.biblegateway.com/devotionals/morning-and-evening/2023/10/19 Message: Comfort For Troubled Hearts, Comfort Comes From Trusting Christ's Power, John 14:12 Fifth Day Evening: Protection: https://banneroftruth.org/us/devotional/fifth-day-evening-protection/ Resources: Valley of Vision: https://banneroftruth.org/us/store/devotional-books/the-valley-of-vision/ Spurgeon's Morning and Evening: https://www.amazon.com/Morning-Evening-Classic-Daily-Devotional/dp/1683227247/ref=pd_lpo_1?pd_rd_i=1683227247&psc=1 Legacy Standard Bible: https://316publishing.com/ 2023 Reading Plan: https://www.oneyearbibleonline.com/readingplan/oneyearreadingplan_month_per_page.pdf Vail Valley Baptist Church GiveSendGo Campaign Link: https://www.givesendgo.com/vvbc-az-school Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wayne-floyd/support

Morning: Fourth Day Morning: True Christianity: https://banneroftruth.org/us/devotional/fourth-day-morning-true-christianity/ Spurgeon's Morning and Evening, October 18, Morning:  https://www.biblegateway.com/devotionals/morning-and-evening/2023/10/18 Jeremiah 31:27-: https://read.lsbible.org/?q=Jeremiah+31 Jeremiah 32: https://read.lsbible.org/?q=Jeremiah+32 1 Timothy 3:  https://read.lsbible.org/?q=1+Timothy+3 Psalm 88:  https://read.lsbible.org/?q=Psalm+88 Proverbs 25:20-22: https://read.lsbible.org/?q=Proverbs+25 The Throne: https://banneroftruth.org/us/devotional/the-throne/ Evening Faith And The World: https://banneroftruth.org/us/devotional/faith-and-the-world/ Spurgeon's Morning and Evening, October 18, Evening:  https://www.biblegateway.com/devotionals/morning-and-evening/2023/10/18 Message: Comfort For Troubled Hearts, Comfort Comes From Trusting Christ's Person, John 14:7-11 Fourth Day Evening: God All-Sufficient: https://banneroftruth.org/us/devotional/fourth-day-evening-god-all-sufficient/ Resources: Valley of Vision: https://banneroftruth.org/us/store/devotional-books/the-valley-of-vision/ Spurgeon's Morning and Evening: https://www.amazon.com/Morning-Evening-Classic-Daily-Devotional/dp/1683227247/ref=pd_lpo_1?pd_rd_i=1683227247&psc=1 Legacy Standard Bible: https://316publishing.com/ 2023 Reading Plan: https://www.oneyearbibleonline.com/readingplan/oneyearreadingplan_month_per_page.pdf Vail Valley Baptist Church GiveSendGo Campaign Link: https://www.givesendgo.com/vvbc-az-school Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wayne-floyd/support

Morning: Sixth Day Morning: The Gospel: https://banneroftruth.org/us/devotional/sixth-day-morning-the-gospel/ Spurgeon's Morning and Evening, October 13, Morning:  https://www.biblegateway.com/devotionals/morning-and-evening/2023/10/13 Jeremiah 22: https://read.lsbible.org/?q=Jeremiah+22 Jeremiah 23:1-20: https://read.lsbible.org/?q=Jeremiah+23 2 Thessalonians 1:  https://read.lsbible.org/?q=2+Thessalonians+1 Psalm 83:  https://read.lsbible.org/?q=Psalm+83 Proverbs 25:11-14: https://read.lsbible.org/?q=Proverbs+25 Love Shed Abroad: https://banneroftruth.org/us/devotional/love-shed-abroad/ Evening: Evening Praise (224) Spurgeon's Morning and Evening, October 13, Evening:  https://www.biblegateway.com/devotionals/morning-and-evening/2023/10/13 Message: Comfort For Troubled Hearts, Comfort Comes From Trusting Christ's Proclamation, John 14:4-6 Sixth Day Evening: The Mediator: https://banneroftruth.org/us/devotional/sixth-day-evening-the-mediator/ Resources: Valley of Vision: https://banneroftruth.org/us/store/devotional-books/the-valley-of-vision/ Spurgeon's Morning and Evening: https://www.amazon.com/Morning-Evening-Classic-Daily-Devotional/dp/1683227247/ref=pd_lpo_1?pd_rd_i=1683227247&psc=1 Legacy Standard Bible: https://316publishing.com/ 2023 Reading Plan: https://www.oneyearbibleonline.com/readingplan/oneyearreadingplan_month_per_page.pdf Vail Valley Baptist Church GiveSendGo Campaign Link: https://www.givesendgo.com/vvbc-az-school Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wayne-floyd/support

Morning: Fifth Day Morning: The Giver: https://banneroftruth.org/us/devotional/fifth-day-morning-the-giver/ Spurgeon's Morning and Evening, October 12, Morning:  https://www.biblegateway.com/devotionals/morning-and-evening/2023/10/12 Jeremiah 19: https://read.lsbible.org/?q=Jeremiah+19 Jeremiah 20: https://read.lsbible.org/?q=Jeremiah+20 Jeremiah 21: https://read.lsbible.org/?q=Jeremiah+21 1 Thessalonians 5:4-28:  https://read.lsbible.org/?q=1+Thessalonians+5 Psalm 82:  https://read.lsbible.org/?q=Psalm+82 Proverbs 25:9-10: https://read.lsbible.org/?q=Proverbs+25 Morning Needs (218) Evening: Christ Alone: https://banneroftruth.org/us/devotional/christ-alone/ Spurgeon's Morning and Evening, October 12, Evening:  https://www.biblegateway.com/devotionals/morning-and-evening/2023/10/12 Message: Comfort For Troubled Hearts, Comfort Comes From Trusting Christ's Preparation, John 14:2-3 Fifth Day Evening: Protection: https://banneroftruth.org/us/devotional/fifth-day-evening-protection/ Resources: Valley of Vision: https://banneroftruth.org/us/store/devotional-books/the-valley-of-vision/ Spurgeon's Morning and Evening: https://www.amazon.com/Morning-Evening-Classic-Daily-Devotional/dp/1683227247/ref=pd_lpo_1?pd_rd_i=1683227247&psc=1 Legacy Standard Bible: https://316publishing.com/ 2023 Reading Plan: https://www.oneyearbibleonline.com/readingplan/oneyearreadingplan_month_per_page.pdf Vail Valley Baptist Church GiveSendGo Campaign Link: https://www.givesendgo.com/vvbc-az-school Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wayne-floyd/support

Morning: Fourth Day Morning: True Christianity: https://banneroftruth.org/us/devotional/fourth-day-morning-true-christianity/ Spurgeon's Morning and Evening, October 11, Morning:  https://www.biblegateway.com/devotionals/morning-and-evening/2023/10/11 Jeremiah 16:16-: https://read.lsbible.org/?q=Jeremiah+16 Jeremiah 17: https://read.lsbible.org/?q=Jeremiah+17 Jeremiah 18: https://read.lsbible.org/?q=Jeremiah+18 1 Thessalonians 4:  https://read.lsbible.org/?q=1+Thessalonians+4 1 Thessalonians 5:1-3:  https://read.lsbible.org/?q=1+Thessalonians+5 Psalm 81:  https://read.lsbible.org/?q=Psalm+81 Proverbs 25:6-8: https://read.lsbible.org/?q=Proverbs+25 Pride: https://banneroftruth.org/us/devotional/pride/ Evening Christlikeness: https://banneroftruth.org/us/devotional/christlikeness/ Spurgeon's Morning and Evening, October 11, Evening:  https://www.biblegateway.com/devotionals/morning-and-evening/2023/10/11 Message: Comfort For Troubled Hearts, Comfort Comes From Trusting Christ's Presence, John 14:1 Fourth Day Evening: God All-Sufficient: https://banneroftruth.org/us/devotional/fourth-day-evening-god-all-sufficient/ Resources: Valley of Vision: https://banneroftruth.org/us/store/devotional-books/the-valley-of-vision/ Spurgeon's Morning and Evening: https://www.amazon.com/Morning-Evening-Classic-Daily-Devotional/dp/1683227247/ref=pd_lpo_1?pd_rd_i=1683227247&psc=1 Legacy Standard Bible: https://316publishing.com/ 2023 Reading Plan: https://www.oneyearbibleonline.com/readingplan/oneyearreadingplan_month_per_page.pdf Vail Valley Baptist Church GiveSendGo Campaign Link: https://www.givesendgo.com/vvbc-az-school Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/wayne-floyd/support

This week we look back at when Chris and Rich discussed the issue of food hoarding and prepping. While often associated with the Mormon church, many people, including Christians, store up mass quantities of food and water in preparation for times of ...