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Exploring Union with Christ: Implications for Counseling and BeyondIn this episode of Speak the Truth, Michael engages with Jason Kovacs from the Gospel Care Collective at the 2025 Made to Minister Conference. They discuss the transformative power of knowing Christ, focusing on the foundational truths of Biblical Counseling, particularly the doctrine of Union with Christ and its implications for counseling. Kovacs shares insights about his ministry, the importance of Christ's presence in our lives, and how understanding our union with Christ can bring hope and perseverance in the counseling process. The conversation delves into the challenges and theological depths of suffering, providing encouragement for both counselors and counselees.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:34 Guest Introduction: Jason Kovacs00:54 Foundational Truths for Biblical Counseling02:26 Union with Christ: Personal Insights03:57 Implications of Union with Christ in Counseling09:10 The Counselor's Perspective11:49 The Role of Suffering and Hope in Counseling22:03 Final Thoughts and ConclusionEpisode MentionsGospel Care Collective Canadian Biblical Counseling Coalition
In this episode, Jack sits down with Kyle Worley—author, pastor, and theologian—to explore the heart of his latest book, Home with God: Our Union with Christ. Together, they unpack what it means to be "in Christ," why this doctrine is often neglected, and how rediscovering it can transform how we live, love, and rest. For a limited time, The Chorus in the Chaos listeners get 10% off their first purchase at Reformation Heritage Books! Use the coupon code "CHORUS". While there, don't forget to check out Joel Beeke's new book 'How To Lead Your Family' The Chorus in the Chaos Info: Website & Blog: www.chorusinthechaos.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chorusinthec... Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chorus_in_the_chaos/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/Chorusnthechaos Intro/Outro Music (by our good friend Nick Illes): https://open.spotify.com/artist/7tnsQ... Email: chorusinthechaos@email.com
Pastor Morgan Stephens
Sunday, April 27, 2025
Kiernan Stringer preaches on Ephesians 1:1-14
Rev. Peter Puliatti2 Corinthians 5 :11-21 ( Text vs 14-17 )
He is Risen! This Easter, Pastor Drew Tucker continues our study of the Book of RomansFor more news and updates or to sign up for our weekly emails, please visit our website: https://www.lifechurchclt.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lifechurchclt Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifechurchcltYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lifechurchcharlotte1632
The story of the man of God, Hudson Taylor is that although he was living an extraordinary life of service, he had a deep feeling of his own sin and failure. When the Spirit opened his eyes to the Scriptures about being united with Jesus, in an instant he received a joy which lasted the rest of his life. What was this truth? (Col 1 & 2, Eph 2 & 3)
One of the many blessings of accepting Christ is our union with Him—but what does it truly mean to be one with Christ?This week, Janet and Jocelyn take a closer look at what it means for a Christian to be united with Christ. Union with Christ is often overlooked or misunderstood because it can feel abstract or hard to grasp, yet it's key to understanding the rich blessings we receive through salvation.Episode TranscriptResourcesHandout2025 Scripture Reading ChallengeVisit the Joyful Journey website to sign up for our newsletter, view a transcript, and search previous episodes.Emails us with questions or comments at joyfuljourneyquestions@outlook.comFacebook, Instagram Donate to Joyful Journey PodcastJoyful Journey Podcast is a ministry of Faith Bible Seminary. All proceeds go to offset costs of this podcast and toward scholarships for women to receive their MABC through Faith Bible Seminary.
One of the many blessings of accepting Christ is our union with Him—but what does it truly mean to be one with Christ?This week, Janet and Jocelyn take a closer look at what it means for a Christian to be united with Christ. Union with Christ is often overlooked or misunderstood because it can feel abstract or hard to grasp, yet it's key to understanding the rich blessings we receive through salvation.Episode TranscriptResourcesHandout2025 Scripture Reading ChallengeVisit the Joyful Journey website to sign up for our newsletter, view a transcript, and search previous episodes.Emails us with questions or comments at joyfuljourneyquestions@outlook.comFacebook, Instagram Donate to Joyful Journey PodcastJoyful Journey Podcast is a ministry of Faith Bible Seminary. All proceeds go to offset costs of this podcast and toward scholarships for women to receive their MABC through Faith Bible Seminary.
Our Union with Christ Part 7 (The Mind of Christ) - 1 Cor 2_16 - Ps Gary Fitzgerald - 13th Apr 2025 by The King's Way Christian Fellowship - Glen Waverley
Reformed Brotherhood | Sound Doctrine, Systematic Theology, and Brotherly Love
In this episode of The Reformed Brotherhood, Jesse Schwamb dives into Colossians 3:1-11, exploring the profound theological truths about our union with Christ and how it transforms our identity, behavior, and perspective. Jesse emphasizes the Apostle Paul's call for Christians to seek the things above, set their minds on heavenly matters, and put to death earthly desires. With Tony absent this week, Jesse unpacks the richness of this passage solo, offering practical insights and reflections on living a Christ-centered life. Jesse begins by discussing the "two addresses" believers inhabit: their earthly location and their heavenly citizenship in Christ. He highlights how our identity in Christ secures us in the heavenly realm, hidden with Christ in God, and how this truth should inform and shape our daily lives. Through Paul's words, Jesse emphasizes the tangible newness believers experience in Christ—new priorities, a new culture, and even a "new wardrobe," symbolizing our transformed life. The episode also touches on the practical implications of this passage, including putting to death sinful behaviors, embracing Christian community, and living with a heavenly-minded focus. Jesse encourages listeners to meditate on their identity in Christ, love their church family deeply, and live out the gospel transformation in every area of life. Key Points: Union with Christ and Heavenly Citizenship: Believers are hidden with Christ in God, granting them a secure and unshakable identity in the heavenly realm. The Call to Put Sin to Death: Paul lists specific sins to abandon, emphasizing the transformation that comes from being united with Christ and living out the gospel truth. Heavenly-Minded Living: Christians are encouraged to set their minds on things above, focusing on eternal treasures rather than temporary earthly desires. The Role of Christian Community: Jesse highlights the importance of the local church as a place where believers grow together, bear with one another, and display the unifying power of Christ. Questions for Reflection: How does the reality of being "hidden with Christ in God" shape your daily perspective and priorities? What earthly desires or behaviors do you need to "put to death" in light of your identity in Christ? How can you better love and serve your local church community as an expression of your union with Christ? In what ways can you focus more on heavenly treasures and less on earthly concerns?
Our Union with Christ Part 6 - Eph 2_4-6 - Ps Gary Fitzgerald - 6th Apr 2025 by The King's Way Christian Fellowship - Glen Waverley
David Forsyth preaches on Romans 6:1-4, focusing on breaking sin's grip by embracing our union with Christ. Teaching that breaking sin's grip requires recognizing the reality of our freedom in Christ, Forsyth emphasizes resisting sinful cravings, renewing our minds, and living in the power of the gospel. This message calls believers to continual vigilance, reminding them that the battle against sin demands daily dependence on God's strength. ★ Support this podcast ★
The act of "putting to death" of sinful instincts in order to have freedom from sin and to live in the power of the Holy Spirit. This act of humiliation comes about through the grace of God; it is the result of, not the condition for, conversion.
Jen Wilkin, JT English, and Kyle Worley continue their discussion on the core doctrines of the Christian faith by having a conversation about union with Christ.Questions Covered in This Episode:What is union with Christ? Why does it matter?Why do we have an unbalanced understanding of this? Why do we think more about Christ in me?How does the story of the prodigal son show us union with Christ?What is the difference between Union with Christ and communion with God?How is the story of union with Christ the story of “home with God”?Where do we find union with Christ in the Bible?When we say that Christ is in us, are we talking about the Holy Spirit?What are some of the benefits of salvation?How does union with Christ help us understand our reception of these benefits?How does being in Christ lead us to sanctification?Helpful Definitions:Union with Christ: Being united to Christ by grace through faith. This means that now our identity is rooted in Christ, we are incorporated into a new people in Christ, and we are participating in God's world in God's ways in Christ.Abide: Verb form of Abode: HomeResources Mentioned in this Episode:Luke 15:11-32, John 15, John 14:23, Genesis 1-3, Jeremiah 31, Romans 8, Romans 5-6, Ephesians 1, Colossians 1:27, John 10, Hebrews 10:14, Philippians 1:6“Home with God” by Kyle Worley“Remember and Rehearse” by JT English“How Salvation Brings Freedom” by Jen Wilkin Follow Us:Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | WebsiteOur Sister Podcasts:The Family Discipleship Podcast | Tiny TheologiansSupport Training the Church and Become a Patron:patreon.com/trainingthechurchMidwestern Seminary is excited to announce FTC Talks, exclusive conversations with MBTS faculty about ministry related topics. Completely online and FREE, you can sign up for any and all FTC Talks today at mbts.edu/ftctalks to reserve your spot. Join us for talks about women's discipleship, God's heart for the nations, gospel-driven ministry, Spurgeon's pastoral ministry, and how every Christian is a counselor. We hope these conversations will spur you on in your service to the local church and help you connect with even more ministry leaders and friends across the country. Sign up today at mbts.edu/ftctalks.To learn more about our sponsors please visit our sponsor page. Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co.
Reformed Brotherhood | Sound Doctrine, Systematic Theology, and Brotherly Love
In this episode of The Reformed Brotherhood, Jesse and Tony explore Colossians 2:13-23, focusing on the sufficiency of Christ and the freedom believers have in Him. The conversation begins with a discussion on the legalistic practices that Paul warns against, such as strict food regulations, festivals, and other ceremonial laws, which are described as shadows pointing to the true substance—Jesus Christ. The hosts emphasize that Christ's work on the cross has fulfilled all these requirements, liberating believers from the constraints of legalism and empty religious rituals. The episode addresses the deeper theological implications of being “dead to the world with Christ.” This union with Christ means believers are no longer bound by man-made regulations or ascetic practices that offer no real value in battling sin or promoting true spiritual growth. Instead, believers are called to hold fast to Christ, the source of all spiritual nourishment and growth. The hosts also caution against the dangers of being disqualified by falling into legalistic or mystical practices, which disconnect believers from the sufficiency of Christ. Wrapping up, Jesse and Tony highlight the liberating power of the Gospel, stressing that true Christian freedom is found in living in accordance with God's moral law, not as a means of earning salvation, but as a joyful response to the grace and love of Christ. This episode is a call to reject legalism and embrace the freedom and sufficiency that comes through union with Christ. Key Points: The Shadows of the Old Testament Point to Christ: The Old Testament ceremonial laws, such as dietary restrictions, festivals, and Sabbaths, were shadows that anticipated Christ. With His coming, these shadows are fulfilled in the substance of Jesus. Union with Christ Brings Freedom: Being united with Christ means believers are no longer subject to legalistic or ascetic practices, as they are dead to the elemental spirits of the world and alive in Christ. The Dangers of Legalism and Empty Rituals: Legalism and man-made religious practices cannot bring about true spiritual growth or victory over sin. Instead, they risk disconnecting believers from the sufficiency of Christ. True Christian Freedom and Obedience: Freedom in Christ is not a license for self-indulgence but an invitation to live joyfully within God's moral law, empowered by His grace. Questions for Reflection: How does understanding Christ as the substance of the Old Testament shadows change the way you view the ceremonial laws? In what ways have you seen legalistic or ascetic practices fail to promote true spiritual growth in your life or in others? How can you hold fast to Christ as the source of spiritual nourishment in a world full of distractions and false teachings? What does true Christian freedom look like in your daily life, and how does it differ from a life constrained by legalism?
We conclude our Way, Truth, Life sermon series by looking at what it looks to have union with Christ and the our aim in life towards that end.
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In part four of his Romans 6 series, David Forsyth unpacks what it truly means to be dead to sin. He stresses that our emancipation from sin's power is permanent through our union with Christ. Forsyth explains how this theological truth must be understood, believed, and acted upon daily. Believers are called to reckon themselves dead to sin and alive to God—this is the foundation for walking in holiness and victory over sin. ★ Support this podcast ★
Steve Surbaugh
Theological Foundations Weekend 2025 was a conference for young people sponsored by the Great Lakes - Gulf Presbytery of the Reformed Presbyterian Church of North America. This year it was held at Southfield Reformed Presbyterian Church, Southfield, MI.This is session 1 of 5:1. "The Church's Union with Christ" (John 15:1-17)2. "A High View of the Church" (Acts 20:17-38)3. "The Keys of the Kingdom" (Matthew 16:13-19; 18:15-20)4. "The Ministry of Church Members" (1 Thessalonians 5:9-15)5. "The Only Perfect Church" (Hebrews 12:22-29)
The opposite of simplicity seems to be complexity. Complexity often leads to confusion. Let’s overcome confusion? 1 Cor 14:33 NASU 33 for God is not a God of confusion but of peace, as in all the churches of the saints. Join the JOYLAND Community as we discuss: Are there areas of your faith in God (Father-Son-Spirit) that are potentially vulnerable to confusion & loss of Simplicity & Singleness through complexity? Possibilities we have looked at: * conflicting biblical or doctrinal assumptions – options on eschatology * prayers v. delayed answers - love/forgiveness/mercy/judgment/punishment * cultural justice v. cultural mercy – needing money v. loving money – others? If so…ask, How can I bring my heart and mind back to “… the simplicity that moves into the Christ (Jesus)?” (because that simplicity leads into relationship, peace & trust) Follow along at our social outlets: https://joylandlife.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joylandlife/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5-vPe7h_wjctIQxnaUQSnQ?view_as=subscriber Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/joyland-life/id1494637858 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6gCbEDE8pgrNhHlG0WM0fo?si=6fSKeO87SoGrx2BOUveHfQ&nd=1 Zoom: https://www.zoom.us/j/3377733377 Joyland App: https://tithely.app.link/joyland (You must follow this through your phone.) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joylandlife/ X: https://twitter.com/JoylandLife Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/joylandlife
Reformed Brotherhood | Sound Doctrine, Systematic Theology, and Brotherly Love
n this episode of the Reformed Brotherhood, Jesse and Tony explore Colossians 2:11-15, a passage rich with theological truth about our spiritual transformation in Christ. The discussion begins by examining the concept of spiritual circumcision, not performed by human hands, but accomplished by Christ Himself. This circumcision represents the cutting away of our sinful nature, symbolizing the inward renewal that comes through faith in Jesus. The hosts emphasize how this spiritual reality is tied to the Old Testament covenant sign of circumcision, demonstrating its fulfillment in Christ. The conversation moves into the significance of being buried and raised with Christ through baptism. Jesse and Tony unpack how baptism mirrors our union with Christ in His death and resurrection. They highlight how our record of debt, symbolizing the guilt and penalty of sin, has been canceled and nailed to the cross. This powerful imagery reminds listeners of the sufficiency of Christ's work on their behalf and the assurance of forgiveness and new life in Him. Finally, the brothers reflect on the triumph of Christ over sin, death, and the rulers and authorities that stood opposed to Him. They discuss the implications of being made alive in Christ, not only for our future hope of bodily resurrection but for our present reality as those who are spiritually raised and seated with Him in the heavenly places. This episode challenges listeners to rest in the sufficiency of Christ and to reject any theology that adds to His completed work. Key Points: Spiritual Circumcision in Christ: Jesus performs a circumcision not made with human hands, cutting off our sinful nature and bringing about inward renewal. Buried and Raised with Christ: Baptism symbolizes our union with Christ in His death and resurrection, demonstrating our forgiveness and new life through His work. Canceling the Record of Debt: The guilt and penalty of sin are removed as Christ nails the record of our debt to the cross, securing our justification. Triumph Over Sin and Death: Christ disarms rulers and authorities, demonstrating His victory over all powers that stood against Him and His people. Union with Christ: Believers are spiritually raised with Christ and seated with Him in the heavenly places, reflecting a present and eternal reality. Questions for Reflection: How does the concept of spiritual circumcision deepen your understanding of God's work in your life? In what ways does baptism symbolize your union with Christ in His death and resurrection? What does the phrase “canceling the record of debt” mean to you, and how does it influence your view of forgiveness? How does Christ's triumph over rulers and authorities encourage you in your daily walk of faith? What does it mean to you that you are already spiritually raised and seated with Christ in the heavenly places?
To many our union with Christ feels like just another theological topic with no practical impact on my life today. But as we explore the results of our union with Christ from Romans 6:6-10, we see that it is radically important to our everyday life as a believer.
Philippians 3:1-9Rev. Chuck Frost
Our Union with Christ Part 4 - John 17_20-26 - Ps Gary Fitzgerald - 23rd Mar 2025 by The King's Way Christian Fellowship - Glen Waverley
In part three of his Romans 6 series, David Forsyth explains how believers have been delivered from sin's power. He emphasizes that through union with Christ, the old self has been crucified and the body of sin rendered ineffective. This freedom means Christians are no longer slaves to sin. Forsyth urges believers to live out this truth, reminding them they have truly been delivered from sin's power by grace through faith. ★ Support this podcast ★
2 Cor 11:3 KJV … but I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity (NT:572 [haplotes]) that is in [eis/into] Christ. 2 Cor 11:-4 KJV 1 Would to God ye could bear with me a little in my folly: and indeed bear with me. 2 For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ. 3 But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ. 4 For if he that cometh preacheth another Jesus, whom we have not preached, or if ye receive another spirit, which ye have not received, or another gospel, which ye have not accepted, ye might well bear with him. The most straightforward literal translation of the phrase above: A literal rendering that preserves the simple meaning of eis would be: “the simplicity; the [one] into the Christ.” or “that simplicity that is into the Christ. Follow along at our social outlets: https://joylandlife.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joylandlife/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5-vPe7h_wjctIQxnaUQSnQ?view_as=subscriber Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/joyland-life/id1494637858 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6gCbEDE8pgrNhHlG0WM0fo?si=6fSKeO87SoGrx2BOUveHfQ&nd=1 Zoom: https://www.zoom.us/j/3377733377 Joyland App: https://tithely.app.link/joyland (You must follow this through your phone.) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joylandlife/ X: https://twitter.com/JoylandLife Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/joylandlife
Reformed Brotherhood | Sound Doctrine, Systematic Theology, and Brotherly Love
In this episode of the Reformed Brotherhood, Tony and Jesse dive into Colossians 2:6-10, exploring the profound truths of walking in Christ and being rooted in His sufficiency. They unpack the significance of receiving Christ as Lord, emphasizing the importance of living a life grounded in faith and gratitude. The episode highlights the contrast between the fullness of Christ and the emptiness of worldly philosophies, warning listeners to guard against being taken captive by human traditions and false teachings. The discussion emphasizes how Christ is the ultimate authority, with the fullness of deity dwelling in Him bodily. This fullness not only reveals His divine nature but also fills believers, enabling them to live lives conformed to His pattern. Tony and Jesse also touch on how the gospel stands apart as an alien knowledge — a divine revelation that cannot be conceived by human minds or traditions. As they explore the text, the hosts discuss the practical implications of walking in Christ, from steadfast faith to gratitude and spiritual growth. They encourage listeners to seek a deeper understanding of Scripture, depend on the Holy Spirit for guidance, and remain vigilant against anything that detracts from Christ's sufficiency and authority. Key Points: Receiving Christ as Lord: The episode begins by unpacking the command to walk in Christ as those who have received Him as Lord. This involves submitting to His authority and living a life rooted in His teachings. Avoiding Empty Philosophy: The hosts warn against being taken captive by human traditions and worldly philosophies, which detract from the sufficiency of Christ and the gospel's divine truth. The Fullness of Christ: They emphasize that in Christ, the fullness of deity dwells bodily, and believers are filled in Him. This profound reality shapes how Christians live and view the world. Practical Christian Living: The discussion highlights the importance of spiritual growth, gratitude, and the necessity of being grounded in Scripture to guard against false teachings. Union with Christ: The episode sets the stage for a deeper dive into the themes of baptism and union with Christ, to be explored in the next installment. Questions for Reflection: What does it mean to “receive Christ Jesus as Lord,” and how does this shape your daily life? How can you remain vigilant against being taken captive by worldly philosophies or human traditions? In what ways does the knowledge of Christ's fullness and sufficiency transform your understanding of faith and worship? How can you cultivate a life of gratitude in response to the truths of the gospel? What practices can help you remain rooted and built up in Christ, especially amidst challenges to your faith?
Fr. Jacob Hsieh is a Norbertine priest of St. Michael's Abbey teaching religion at Ss. Peter and Paul Church in Wilmington. He is a graduate of Thomas Aquinas College and was ordained a priest in 2015. In this presentation, Father continues his conversation about the Season of Lent.Listen live weekdays at 6am and 11am Pacific Time at spiritfilledradio.org or get the App for Spirit Filled Radio for your smart phone or tablet devices.
Our Union with Christ Part 3 - John 17_15-19 - Ps Gary Fitzgerald - 16th Mar 2025 by The King's Way Christian Fellowship - Glen Waverley
Luke, Seth, and guest Kyle Worley discuss the doctrine of our Union with Christ. Kyle's new book focuses on how you and I are invited to live at home with God in Christ Jesus. Union with Christ is one of the most unbelievable and overlooked realities of Christian salvation.Home With God
How is it that we are able to have the power to live a life victorious over sin and its temptations in our lives? Today we look at Romans 6:3-5.
Amy Gannett joins Joanna Kimbrel to discuss the doctrine of union with Christ and its profound impact on the Christian life. They explore how salvation is not just a legal status but a deep, spiritual connection to Christ through the Holy Spirit. Amy explains how this union transforms prayer, evangelism, identity, and the believer's daily struggle against sin. The conversation also highlights how union with Christ provides strength in suffering and assurance of God's presence.
What do a vine and branches, a building with a foundation, adoption, marriage, and clothing all have in common? All are biblical examples of a profound truth about a believers relationship with Jesus
Reformed Brotherhood | Sound Doctrine, Systematic Theology, and Brotherly Love
In this episode of the Reformed Brotherhood, Tony and Jesse delve into the complexities of Colossians 1:24–29, exploring Paul's profound theology of suffering and the mystery of Christ's indwelling presence. The discussion begins by examining Paul's statement about "filling up what is lacking in Christ's afflictions" and how this does not undermine the sufficiency of Christ's atoning work. Instead, they argue, Paul is emphasizing the role of suffering in the Christian life as a means of identifying with Christ and demonstrating the power of the gospel. The hosts highlight how Paul models joy in suffering, presenting it as a privilege and a testimony to the transformative work of Christ in the believer's life. They reflect on how suffering serves as a tool to grow in spiritual maturity, deepen union with Christ, and proclaim the gospel authentically. By connecting Paul's message to broader biblical themes, they emphasize the importance of perseverance and faithfulness in the face of trials, drawing encouragement from Paul's example. Additionally, the conversation touches on practical applications for today, encouraging listeners to embrace their calling, even when it involves hardship, and to live in a way that reflects the hope of glory—the presence and power of Christ within us. This episode offers rich theological insights and challenges listeners to view suffering through the lens of God's redemptive purposes. Key Points: Understanding Colossians 1:24: The episode unpacks Paul's difficult statement about "filling up what is lacking in Christ's afflictions," explaining that it does not suggest any deficiency in Christ's atonement but highlights the role of suffering in the believer's life. Joy in Suffering: Tony and Jesse discuss how Paul finds joy in his hardships, seeing them as part of his calling to proclaim the gospel and as a way to demonstrate Christ's work in his life. Union with Christ: The hosts explore how suffering deepens the believer's experiential union with Christ, making His presence and power evident to the world. The Role of Ministers: Paul's example serves as a model for pastors and teachers, emphasizing the call to serve and suffer for the sake of the church and the gospel. Practical Applications for Today: The discussion concludes with encouragement for listeners to persevere in trials, embrace their God-given calling, and view suffering as an opportunity to glorify God. Questions for Reflection: How does Paul's theology of suffering challenge your understanding of hardship in the Christian life? In what ways can you find joy in the trials you face, knowing Christ is present with you? How can Paul's example of perseverance inspire you to remain faithful in your calling, even when it involves difficulty or sacrifice? What does it mean for you personally that "Christ is in you, the hope of glory"? How can suffering serve as a testimony to the power and sufficiency of the gospel in your life?
Worship with us live online at ExploreGracePoint.com/church-onlineGracePoint Church2351 Rice Creek RdNew Brighton, MN 55112
Colossians 2:9-15
Reformed Brotherhood | Sound Doctrine, Systematic Theology, and Brotherly Love
n this episode of The Reformed Brotherhood, Jesse and Tony delve deep into Colossians 1:13-14, unpacking the Apostle Paul's rich theological message about being rescued from the domain of darkness and transferred into the kingdom of Christ. The discussion centers on the transformative power of God's grace, emphasizing the joy and beauty of redemption, forgiveness, and union with Christ. Through Christ alone, believers are qualified to share in the inheritance of the saints, receiving full access to the privileges of being children of God. Tony and Jesse explore the covenantal implications of the passage, showing how salvation is not based on human effort or merit but entirely on God's initiative. The conversation highlights the sufficiency of Christ in salvation, contrasting the gospel's message with works-based systems of theology. They also discuss how this passage reflects the broader themes of Pauline theology, including union with Christ, sanctification, and glorification. The hosts encourage listeners to embrace the good news of the gospel, reminding them that salvation is a gift received through Christ alone. They urge anyone who has not yet trusted in Christ to consider the beauty of being transferred into the kingdom of light. This episode is a theological feast, offering both encouragement and practical insights for living out the gospel. Key Points: Rescue and Redemption in Christ: Believers are delivered from the domain of darkness and transferred into the kingdom of God's beloved Son, emphasizing God's initiative in salvation. Union with Christ: Salvation is not merely transactional but relational, as believers are united with Christ and share in His inheritance. Covenantal Theology: The passage underscores the covenantal framework of Scripture, showing how believers are brought into a new covenantal relationship through Christ. The Sufficiency of Christ: The episode highlights Christ's sufficiency in salvation, rejecting works-based systems and affirming that salvation is entirely a gift of grace. Questions for Reflection: How does understanding that salvation is entirely God's initiative impact your walk with Christ? What does it mean to you personally to be transferred from the domain of darkness into the kingdom of light? How does the concept of union with Christ shape your understanding of your identity as a believer?
In this sermon on union with Christ, Dr, Martyn Lloyd Jones states that “The union of the believer with Christ is one of the most glorious doctrines of the Christian faith.” What makes this biblical doctrine extremely beautiful and incredibly vital to one's understanding of Christian living? How does it differ from the false views of eternity and spirituality? In this sermon, Dr. Lloyd-Jones teaches what it means to be permanently, irrevocably united with Christ. Christians are now partakers of the divine nature, complete through His priestly work. Their relationship with God is personal and individual. There is no need for Catholicism's idea of an intermediary as the relationship is not dependent on a church or priest. Beginning with the mystics, a view of eternity and spirituality has emerged that reduces a person after death to no more than a part of the spiritual aura surrounding the universe. Dr. Lloyd-Jones cuts through this false view and demonstrates the beauty of the Christian worldview where Christians maintain a distinct personhood throughout now and eternity, while still enjoying the divine nature due to the union with Christ.
In this sermon on union with Christ, Dr, Martyn Lloyd Jones states that “The union of the believer with Christ is one of the most glorious doctrines of the Christian faith.” What makes this biblical doctrine extremely beautiful and incredibly vital to one's understanding of Christian living? How does it differ from the false views of eternity and spirituality? In this sermon, Dr. Lloyd-Jones teaches what it means to be permanently, irrevocably united with Christ. Christians are now partakers of the divine nature, complete through His priestly work. Their relationship with God is personal and individual. There is no need for Catholicism's idea of an intermediary as the relationship is not dependent on a church or priest. Beginning with the mystics, a view of eternity and spirituality has emerged that reduces a person after death to no more than a part of the spiritual aura surrounding the universe. Dr. Lloyd-Jones cuts through this false view and demonstrates the beauty of the Christian worldview where Christians maintain a distinct personhood throughout now and eternity, while still enjoying the divine nature due to the union with Christ. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/603/29
Galatians 2:20 – “My old self has been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me.”1 Corinthians 6:17 – “But the person who is joined to the Lord is one spirit with him.” 2 Corinthians 5:17 – This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!”These verses, along with many others in the Bible, paint a part of the picture of what happens as a result of salvation. And if we're honest, I think it's a part of the picture we tend to look past. When we think about salvation, our minds typically go to the part that is easier to understand: we will not go to hell, we will go to heaven. “I go here, not there, I get that.” But the picture of salvation in Scripture is so, so much more rich than that. In fact, as the verses I just read highlight, salvation makes us a new creation – and not just that but it is no longer I who live but Christ lives in me. The Bible paints a truly beautiful picture of oneness – it often uses the terms “in Christ” or “in him” or “united with Christ.” And again, speaking from a place of honesty, this is something I hadn't spent too much time thinking about in my life – and I think many of us are this way. We move past it either as a truth that doesn't seem to pertinent to the way I live every day, or too complex that we just add it to the list of mysteries of the faith. In this series we will explore some of the mysteries of the faith we tend to move past. I want to name them, examine them from different perspectives, and talk about who these mysteries can actually have profound effects on how we approach our personal walk with Jesus. This first episode is on what it means to be in union with Christ. To help navigate us through this is Dr. Clive Bowsher. Dr. Bowsher is provost of Union School of Theology and author of the books Life in the Son and One: Being United to Jesus Changes Everything.Doable Discipleship is a Saddleback Church podcast produced and hosted by Jason Wieland. It premiered in 2017 and now offers more than 400 episodes. Episodes release every Tuesday on your favorite podcast app and on the Saddleback Church YouTube Channel (https://www.youtube.com/saddleback).Resources Related to This Episode:https://www.ivpress.com/life-in-the-sonhttps://us.amazon.com/One-Being-United-Changes-Everything/dp/B0D8LNKHNG?ref_=ast_author_dpRelated Doable Discipleship Episodes:Living Hope with Phil Wickham - https://youtu.be/1U_aetP2H0MLonging for Joy with Alastair Sterne - https://youtu.be/HNXAl4wTmIcMusic, Story, and Experience with Luke Smallbone - https://youtu.be/6I-ayiHn7TwNavigating the Bible: Genesis - https://youtu.be/ddhjMfOoasALiving Out of Overflow - https://youtu.be/aBKXbHf0X0sLiving with Hope in the Midst of Struggle - https://youtu.be/99Nki49V0fI