Podcasts about unity in christ

Notes Matthew 4:12-23 Isaiah 9:1-4 1 Corinthians 1:10-18 Summary In this episode of the Pulpit Fiction Podcast, hosts Robb McCoy and Eric Fistler delve into the Gospel reading from Matthew 4:12-23, which recounts the calling of the fishermen. They explore the significance of Jesus' call to Simon Peter and Andrew, as well as James and John, emphasizing the differences in the Gospel narratives. The discussion highlights the socio-political context of Galilee, where Jesus begins his ministry amid Roman oppression, and the implications of being 'fishers of men' as a call to advocate for justice rather than mere evangelism. The hosts also touch on the upcoming readings from Isaiah and 1 Corinthians, drawing connections between the texts and contemporary issues of division within the church and society. Takeaways Jesus's call to the fishermen is immediate and transformative. The Gospels present different perspectives on the same events. The arrest of John the Baptist serves as a catalyst for Jesus's ministry. Church divisions can distract from the core message of unity in Christ. The Kingdom of Heaven challenges existing power structures. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Pulpit Fiction Podcast 02:03 Conferences and Continuing Education in Ministry 04:58 Exploring the Sermon on the Mount 07:43 The Calling of the Fishermen: Matthew 4:12-23 09:00 Comparative Analysis of Gospel Accounts 12:04 The Significance of Jesus' Command to Follow 16:11 The Context of John's Arrest and Its Impact 19:26 The Political Implications of Jesus' Ministry 22:19 Understanding 'Fishers of Men' in a New Light 26:26 The Historical Context of Galilee and Its Importance 30:17 The Struggles of Modern Empires 35:07 The Light in Darkness: A Message of Hope 45:07 Unity in Diversity: The Call for Christian Togetherness  

While the gospel grants us peace with God, we also obtain peace with one another through our union with Christ. From his sermon series in Ephesians, today R.C. Sproul explains how Jesus unites believing Jews and gentiles in His church to form a new humanity. Request R.C. Sproul's commentary on the book of Ephesians with your donation of any amount: https://gift.renewingyourmind.org/4563/offer   Live outside the U.S. and Canada? Request the Ephesians commentary ebook with your donation: https://www.renewingyourmind.org/global   Meet Today's Teacher:   R.C. Sproul (1939–2017) was founder of Ligonier Ministries, first minister of preaching and teaching at Saint Andrew's Chapel, first president of Reformation Bible College, and executive editor of Tabletalk magazine.   Meet the Host:   Nathan W. Bingham is vice president of media for Ligonier Ministries, executive producer and host of Renewing Your Mind, and host of the Ask Ligonier podcast. Renewing Your Mind is a donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

Pastor Jim challenges the church to move beyond the basics of faith and embrace the deeper transformation that comes from truly knowing God in Christ. Paul's prayer for the believers in Ephesus is not just one of gratitude; it is a plea for them to see the unimaginable hope, inheritance, and power that are theirs in Jesus. Jim invites us to hunger for more than spiritual comfort food and instead pursue the richness of being a Messiah-shaped people, united as God's family and empowered to live as agents of new creation in a broken world. When we grasp the risen Christ as King over all, our understanding of church shifts from routine to mission, from individual salvation to communal transformation.

Pastor Jim walks through Ephesians 1 to show that salvation is not just about rescuing individuals but about forming a new family under Christ. Drawing from Paul's rich language of adoption, blessing, and spiritual inheritance, Jim reminds us that God has intentionally chosen and pursued us in love, not just to save us from sin but to bring us into a people united in Christ. Rather than approaching Ephesians as a theological puzzle to solve, Jim encourages listeners to soak in the beauty of God's heart, the depth of our spiritual blessings, and the ultimate purpose of uniting all things in Jesus to the praise of God's glory. This message challenges believers to lift their eyes beyond individual spirituality and embrace the Church as God's heaven-meets-earth family on mission.

We are commanded to submit to one another out of reverence to Christ. Paul explains in detail how that relates to husbands and wives, children and fathers, and slaves and masters. The practical implications here are critical.

Acts 2:1-13; Ephesians 2:19-22 // Jonathan NeefThis sermon connects the Day of Pentecost (Acts 2:1-13) with the imagery of the Church as God's Temple (Ephesians 2:19-22). Acts describes the arrival of the Holy Spirit with wind and fire, enabling believers to speak in other languages, breaking down barriers of nationality and race. Ephesians explains the profound result: we are no longer strangers but fellow citizens and part of God's household, being built together on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus as the cornerstone. Discover how the Spirit's power unites a diverse people into one dwelling place for God.SERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2542/responses/new25.12.21

Acts 2:1-13; Ephesians 2:19-22 // Brooks NesseThis sermon connects the Day of Pentecost (Acts 2:1-13) with the imagery of the Church as God's Temple (Ephesians 2:19-22). Acts describes the arrival of the Holy Spirit with wind and fire, enabling believers to speak in other languages, breaking down barriers of nationality and race. Ephesians explains the profound result: we are no longer strangers but fellow citizens and part of God's household, being built together on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus as the cornerstone. Discover how the Spirit's power unites a diverse people into one dwelling place for God.SERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2509/responses/new25.12.21

Acts 2:1-13; Ephesians 2:19-22 // Gabe CoyleThis sermon connects the Day of Pentecost (Acts 2:1-13) with the imagery of the Church as God's Temple (Ephesians 2:19-22). Acts describes the arrival of the Holy Spirit with wind and fire, enabling believers to speak in other languages, breaking down barriers of nationality and race. Ephesians explains the profound result: we are no longer strangers but fellow citizens and part of God's household, being built together on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus as the cornerstone. Discover how the Spirit's power unites a diverse people into one dwelling place for God.SERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2553/responses/new25.12.21

Acts 2:1-13; Ephesians 2:19-22 // Bill GormanThis sermon connects the Day of Pentecost (Acts 2:1-13) with the imagery of the Church as God's Temple (Ephesians 2:19-22). Acts describes the arrival of the Holy Spirit with wind and fire, enabling believers to speak in other languages, breaking down barriers of nationality and race. Ephesians explains the profound result: we are no longer strangers but fellow citizens and part of God's household, being built together on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus as the cornerstone. Discover how the Spirit's power unites a diverse people into one dwelling place for God.SERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2546/responses/new25.12.21

Acts 2:1-13; Ephesians 2:19-22 // Paul BrandesThis sermon connects the Day of Pentecost (Acts 2:1-13) with the imagery of the Church as God's Temple (Ephesians 2:19-22). Acts describes the arrival of the Holy Spirit with wind and fire, enabling believers to speak in other languages, breaking down barriers of nationality and race. Ephesians explains the profound result: we are no longer strangers but fellow citizens and part of God's household, being built together on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus as the cornerstone. Discover how the Spirit's power unites a diverse people into one dwelling place for God.SERMON NOTES (YouVersion): https://bible.com/events/PRAYER REQUESTS: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/2574/responses/new25.12.21

Mark Clifton and Mark Hallock walk through bad and good reasons to leave a church, drawing from H.B. Charles Jr.'s article, “When It's Time to Leave a Church.” If you're wrestling with whether to stay or go, this episode will help you think biblically and wisely about church membership, commitment, and discernment. They explore “red light” reasons not to leave a church (bad reasons): Sin: leaving instead of repenting or reconciling. Disagreements over secondary doctrinal issues: elevating non-essential issues to a breaking point. Disunity: walking away rather than pursuing peace and unity in Christ. Personal offenses: allowing hurt feelings or misunderstandings to drive decisions. Unwillingness to submit to spiritual authority: resisting God-given leadership rather than humbly engaging. A low view of the church: treating church as optional, consumer-based, or disposable. Disregard for the truth: leaving when God's Word confronts your preferences or lifestyle. They also talk about “green light” reasons that may indicate it's time to leave a church (good reasons): A gospel reason: the church no longer clearly preaches or guards the gospel of Jesus Christ. A doctrinal reason: the church drifts into serious theological error or abandons biblical authority. A personal reason: unique circumstances such as relocation, calling, or family needs that make joining another faithful church wise. This episode is especially helpful for: Believers struggling with whether to leave a church Pastors and elders helping members process church transitions Christians wanting a more biblical view of church membership and commitment Resources Mentioned in This Episode: “When It's Time to Leave a Church” by HB Charles Listen in for a pastoral, gospel-centered conversation on leaving a church wisely, staying for the right reasons, and loving Christ's bride well.

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Tomorrow I will be in Roanoke, Virginiaparticipating and speaking at a celebration of life service for a dear, dearsaint of God, Nancy Young. I'll tell you more about Nancy's and her life thatwas, “A Life Well Lived”, later in this blog. Matterof fact her life “measured up to the stature of the fullness of Christ”, thatPaul desired for every believer here in Ephesians 4. Today we begin looking atthis next section of the chapter where we learn about the “growth of unity” inthe local church. From verse 11 we are told this growth takes after, “HeHimself gives some apostles, and some prophets, some evangelists, and somepastors and teachers.” He does this for the purpose which we find in verses12-16. Thisis a very special passage of scripture that gives us exactly what the pastorsand leaders of the church should be doing. That is equipping the saints for thework of the ministry and for the spiritual growth and maturity of theindividual members.  Overmy 50 plus years as a pastor, if I ever knew someone that was a part of comingto the fullness of unity in Christ, coming to a place of full maturity in thebody of Christ and building up the body of Christ, and doing their part to makesure the church of Christ, the body of Christ, was the kind of church it shouldbe, it was Nancy Young. I've had the privilege of being her pastor for the pastthirty-some years now. As I think about the ministry we had together in thelocal church there at Rainbow Forest Baptist Church, of which she was a faithfulmember for the last 40 years, I watched as the Lord used Nancy in a wonderfulway to touch the lives of so many people. Manyof you probably didn't know that Nancy grew up in Africa with her parents, whowent there in 1945 when she was 3 years old. They were first missionaries inthe Congo, and then in Burundi, where during their ministry, there was aterrible genocide taking place. In her personal eight-page typed testimony thatshe recently wrote for her RFBC Sunday School class, she said from birth shewas taught the Word of God by her parents and had memorized Psalm 23 by thetime she was one year old. How amazing is that!!!!  Nancygrew up in Africa up to the time, when as a teenager she went to WheatonCollege back in the states. It was at Wheaton College that she developed apassion to teach children God's word. Not long after college, that she gotinvolved in WRE, (Weekly Religious Education). Now for over 55 plus years,every week you could find her teaching children the Bible in the public schoolsystem, usually meeting in a small trailer across the street from the school,like she did at Colonial Elementary School near where I lived. Ijust am so thankful for her faithful dedication to this ministry because manyof my grandchildren sat under her Bible teaching. Nancy actually taught mydaughters-in-law, Crystal Floyd Grooms when she was a girl. Remember Crystal,(and she won't mind that I say this), today is in her 40s. Yet when she was alittle girl at Colonial Elementary, she sat under Nancy's teaching. Nancyis a wonderful example of someone who loved the Lord, loved her husband, lovedher family, loved ministry, loved teaching God's Word, and had a grasp of the Wordof God in its entirety. She truly was an example of a mature believer who livedin the fullness of Jesus Christ. Oh, what a blessing it has been to be herpastor. We're celebrating her homegoing tomorrow (Tuesday) with her family.We're excited about how God's going to speak to the lives of many even in theservice.  Itrust you have been encouraged by her testimony that I have shared in today'schat. I trust that you are being equipped for the work of the ministry likeNancy Young was. May the Lord also use you to affect and influence the lives ofhundreds of others as He blesses and leads you.  Godbless!

Sunday PM - Jake

Scripture is our guideline to understanding the unity of the body of Christ. We are told how the Church is loved by Christ and how to love one another, and the results of what this unity in Christ accomplishes. In this episode, Associate Pastor Josh Randol talks about how God has fulfilled his promises to unify the body of Christ through the Gospel of His Son from Ephesians 4:1-16.Get Connected! https://linktr.ee/reachtulsa

Podcast Description – Mason Tucker | Ephesians 2 | RiverSide ChurchIn this powerful, verse-by-verse message from Ephesians 2, Mason Tucker walks us through one of the clearest pictures in all of Scripture of what it means to be saved by grace and built on a firm foundation in Jesus Christ. Preached at RiverSide Church, this sermon reminds us that we were once dead in our trespasses and sins, following the course of this world—but God, being rich in mercy, made us alive together with Christ.You'll be encouraged as we see that salvation is by grace alone, through faith, not by works, so that no one may boast. We are reminded that we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works that He prepared beforehand. The message also unpacks how Christ has broken down the wall of hostility, making Jew and Gentile one new people, and how believers are now members of God's household, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the chief cornerstone.This is a rich, gospel-centered teaching that calls the listener to rest in Christ's finished work and to stand firm on the only sure foundation—Jesus Christ alone. Perfect for anyone seeking to grow deeper in their understanding of grace, salvation, unity in Christ, and the unshakable foundation of the gospel.

This powerful message from Ephesians 4 reminds us that we are not isolated believers but interconnected members of one body in Christ. Just as a seemingly minor injury to a toe can affect the entire body—causing limping, back pain, sleepless nights, and grumpiness—so too does each member of the church impact the whole community. Paul's call to be completely humble, gentle, and patient while bearing with one another in love isn't just a nice suggestion; it's the essential foundation for unity. We're challenged to extend this grace not only to others but also to ourselves, recognizing that we all bring our struggles and 'junk' into community. The repetition of 'one' seven times—one body, one Spirit, one hope, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God—emphasizes the perfection and completeness of our unity in Christ. As we approach Christmas, this message becomes especially timely: the world desperately needs to see Christians living as unified disciples. Our diversity in spiritual gifts doesn't fragment us but rather strengthens us, like different positions on a football team working toward a common goal. When we embrace our God-given uniqueness while maintaining humble unity, we become the church Christ intended—a body that grows, matures, and demonstrates His love to a watching world.

Principle 25 – Unity in Christ1 Corinthians 12:1-26As members of local churches, we should be committed to manifesting the fruit of the Holy Spirit and becoming unified in Christ. NEW! - Let us know what you think of the program! Support the show

SEND US A MESSAGE! We'd Love to Chat With you and Hear your thoughts! We'll read them on the next episode. As we prepare for thanksgiving, there will be many contentious topics around the dinner table. Will you find your self on the hateful end of a sibling in Christ? Following up from my conversation with Rachel from last week, I continue to discuss the growing divisions within the American church and the need to fight to maintain peace in the church. Unity in Christ is granted through Him and for Him, to that end, we seek practical unity among one another. How has the growing politicization affected how we've responded to the tragedies of this year and the ensuing conversations stemming from them? Leave me your comments!Keep in touch with Brandon's Planting Residency at Redemption City Church in BaltimoreSupport the showHosts: Brandon and Daren Smith Learn of Brandon's Church Planting CallPatreon: www.patreon.com/blackandblurredPaypal: https://paypal.me/blackandblurredYouTube: Black and Blurred PodcastIG: @BlackandBlurredPodcastX: @Blurred_Podcast

Ephesians 2: 11-22 Pastor Scott Skones

Messages from Ephesians

In the concluding episode of our Essentials series, Dean sits down with esteemed church historian Dr. Mark Noll to explore the rich historical and theological context surrounding the Essentials of our Faith. Together, they trace the development of Presbyterianism in America, reflect on the global identity of the EPC, and consider how balancing truth and grace has always been central to our confessional life. Drawing from centuries of church history, Dr. Noll and Dean discuss how past movements of faith and reform can guide the EPC in navigating present and future challenges. Their conversation reminds us that the Essentials are not only a foundation to preserve but a living testimony of God's ongoing work in His Church around the world. This episode offers both historical insight and pastoral encouragement for anyone seeking to understand how the EPC's theological roots inform its present mission and unity in Christ.

Messages from Ephesians

Jase gets lovingly roasted by a self-proclaimed “dork” who calls him out for talking too much and he has to admit, it's true. The listener's tongue-in-cheek “Unashamed Drinking Game” exposes all the guys' funniest and worst habits, leading Zach to suspect it might be a Robertson family member secretly trolling them. The guys pivot to a lively discussion about why unity in Christ matters more than denominational lines and how Jesus' resurrected body defies description yet fills us with hope for our own resurrection. In this episode: John 19; 1 Corinthians 15; 1 John 3; Romans 4; Romans 8; Hebrews 11; Genesis 22. “Unashamed” Episode 1208 is sponsored by: Stand firm for values that matter. Join the fight & give today at https://www.frc.org/unashamed https://tomorrowclubs.org/unashamed — For a limited time, all donations to this “Binga Blitz” will be matched! Join us now and double your impact! https://chministries.org/unashamed — See why Christians are ditching health insurance for good. Get a simpler alternative at half the cost! https://myphdweightloss.com — Find out how Al is finally losing weight! Schedule your one-on-one consultation today by visiting the website or calling 864-644-1900. https://andrewandtodd.com or call 888-888-1172 — These guys are the real deal. Get trusted mortgage guidance and expertise from someone who shares your values! http://unashamedforhillsdale.com/ — Sign up now for free, and join the Unashamed hosts every Friday for Unashamed Academy Powered by Hillsdale College Listen to Not Yet Now with Zach Dasher on Apple, Spotify, iHeart, or anywhere you get podcasts. Check out At Home with Phil Robertson, nearly 800 episodes of Phil's unfiltered wisdom, humor, and biblical truth, available for free for the first time! Get it on Apple, Spotify, Amazon, and anywhere you listen to podcasts! https://open.spotify.com/show/3LY8eJ4ZBZHmsImGoDNK2l Chapters: 00:00-04:33 Jase isn't a great listener 04:34-18:46 Churches need to unify, not divide 18:47-26:42 The Unashamed “drinking game” 26:43-31:35 Jase's chickens come home to roost 31:36-40:26 No words could describe Jesus' resurrected body 40:27-50:10 Abraham got it wrong & still got it right 50:11-57:06 How to grow your faith step-by-step — Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. And since today is Veterans Day, I want to pause and thank the men and women who have served in our armed forces. You've stood in the gap, sacrificed comfort, and protected freedom. We honor you, and we're grateful for your courage and service. Today's shout-out goes to Clarence Campbell from Burton, MI. Your commitment through Project23 helps deliver God's Word daily with clarity and conviction. This one's for you. Our text today is Judges 12:4-6. Then Jephthah gathered all the men of Gilead and fought with Ephraim. And the men of Gilead struck Ephraim, because they said, "You are fugitives of Ephraim, you Gileadites, in the midst of Ephraim and Manasseh." And the Gileadites captured the fords of the Jordan against the Ephraimites. And when any of the fugitives of Ephraim said, "Let me go over," the men of Gilead said to him, "Are you an Ephraimite?" When he said, "No," they said to him, "Then say Shibboleth," and he said, "Sibboleth," for he could not pronounce it right. Then they seized him and slaughtered him at the fords of the Jordan. At that time 42,000 of the Ephraimites fell. — Judges 12:4-6 When the conflict between Jephthah and Ephraim escalated, it turned into full-blown civil war. At the Jordan River, the Gileadites set up a simple test: say the word "Shibboleth." Here's why that word mattered: Ephraimites had a regional accent. They couldn't pronounce the "sh" sound and instead said "Sibboleth." A single letter—one tiny sound—became the marker of life or death. If you failed the test, you were executed on the spot. Forty-two thousand brothers died—not because of a true enemy, but because of pride and petty rivalry. It's heartbreaking. Israel was supposed to be one people under God, fighting enemies together. Instead, they killed each other over accents. What began as wounded pride ended in a river of blood. Pride still divides God's people today. Churches split over style. Families fracture over opinions. Christians criticize each other over minor disputes. Small "Shibboleths" become battle lines, and the mission of God suffers. Pride takes small differences and makes them deadly; humility sees the bigger mission and fights the right battles. On Veterans Day, we remember men and women who laid down comfort and safety to protect unity, freedom, and peace. They remind us of what happens when courage is used to defend, not divide. Veterans stood shoulder to shoulder for something greater than themselves. That's what we're called to in Christ—not uniformity, but unity under His mission. The real enemy isn't your brother or sister in Christ. The real enemy is the sin and pride that sets us against each other. Don't let a "Shibboleth" ruin your relationships. Don't let small differences blind you to the bigger battle. Jesus shed his blood to make us one family—let's not shed each other's blood over accents. ASK THIS: Where am I letting pride make small differences into big divisions? Am I more focused on being "right" than being united in Christ? How can I fight for unity instead of fighting my brothers? DO THIS: Identify one "Shibboleth" in your life—a small difference that's become a point of pride or division. Surrender it to God and choose unity over rivalry. PRAY THIS: Father, forgive me when I let pride divide me from my brothers and sisters. Help me to see that our unity in Christ matters more than petty differences. Keep me from fighting the wrong battles and use me to build peace in Your family. Amen. PLAY THIS: "Make Us One."

Messages from Ephesians

Information and Registration:https://www.psd-lcms.org/koinonia-gatheringThis special bonus episode of Lead Time features Rev. Dr. Mike Gibson, President of the Pacific Southwest District (LCMS), joining Pastor Tim Ahlman to announce a historic upcoming event — the Koinonia Gathering, January 7–8, 2026, in Las Vegas, Nevada.The Koinonia Gathering isn't a debate. It's a moment for honest, face-to-face conversation among pastors and lay leaders across the LCMS — a space for listening, understanding, and unity in Christ.Tim and President Gibson unpack:- The heart and history of the Koinonia Project.- Why open, charitable dialogue is essential for our Synod's health.- What participants can expect from this Las Vegas gathering.Whether you agree or disagree on issues like pastoral formation, this is an invitation to talk, not type — to model Christlike love in disagreement and pursue the harmony our Synod longs for.Support the showJoin the Lead Time Newsletter! (Weekly Updates and Upcoming Episodes)https://www.uniteleadership.org/lead-time-podcast#newsletterVisit uniteleadership.org

We need to know our identity (Prov 23:7). It has 2 sources: our (1) CREATION in Adam (Gen 1:26-27) & (2) REDEMPTION in Christ. Since we're born in Adam, we share his identity as God's image, to reflect & express His glory. As part of our identity, He created us male or female. In Adam, we all sinned & are under divine judgment. Our nature, inherited from Adam, is prideful rebellion against God. Man's collective sin became so bad, God judged it at Noah's Flood, after which He told man to fill the earth (Gen 9:1). But man rebelled again at Babel (Gen 11:1-9). So, God scattered man over the earth, dividing us into nations. This is God's will, designed to restrain the spread of sin. It's God's idea to create national identities, with different characteristics, that are part of our identity & inheritance in Adam. We embrace & celebrate these aspects of our identity, as we should embrace our God-given sexual identity. As man separated into nations, they developed their own cultures & ways, so certain genes became dominant in populations, creating different abilities & appearances. Though we're divided into nations, we belong to one human family in Adam (Acts 17:26), and so share a common inheritance (good & bad), so we're all equal. Globalism tries to override the power of nation states to set up a one-world government. This was Nimrod's vision at Babel, so he could rule over all mankind. A rebel against God (Gen 10:9), running the world is a worst-case scenario. Satan is trying to rebuild Babel, putting his antichrist in charge of a one-world government (called Babylon). He'll succeed for a short time before Christ destroys it at His Return, and sets up His one world Government. Although many aspects of our natural inheritance & identity are God-given, the great problem is that we also inherit from Adam his identity & nature as a sinner. So, part of our natural identity is that by natural birth, we belong to a fallen race under Divine Judgment, whatever other natural positive qualities we might have. God has a solution for the Fall. Christ came as the 2nd Adam, to be the head of a new human race in Him, the source of a new identity. He came to bring forth a New Creation, a new family in Himself. In His death as the last Adam, He took on Himself all the fallen aspects of our Adamic inheritance of sin & death, and cancelled it, and by His resurrection He brought us into a new inheritance in the New Covenant, the firstborn from the dead of a New Creation, a new species of humanity, with His spiritual DNA. For those who receive Him as Saviour & Lord, He provides a New Birth of our spirit, making us a New Man in Christ. Thru our union with Him, we receive a new nature, identity & origin-history, for we've died & risen with Christ, and now belong to Him. As our 1st (physical) birth in Adam made us an inheritor of Adam, so our new (spiritual) birth in Christ makes us an inheritor of all that's Christ's (John 1:12-13, 3:3-7, Eph 4:23-24). We still have the God-given aspects of our natural identity & inheritance (gender, gifts, personality & nation), but our new identity & inheritance in Christ is far more important & dominant. By our union with Christ, all God's blessings of God are ours in Christ (Rom 8:32, 2Cor 1:20, Eph 1:3). Whoever we are in the natural, the most important truth about us is who we are in Christ (Col 3:9). In this New Creation reality, Christ is all important, and He is in us all. We're all equal in Him. National & natural distinctions still exist, but are overwhelmed by the greater truth of our identity in Christ – we belong to Him, created in His image, in God's family & Kingdom. National distinctions & natural differences count for nothing as far as our inheritance in Christ is concerned (Phil 3:4-7). We're all equal inheritors of salvation & eternal life (Rom 10:12-13). God has no favourites (2Cor 5:14-17). The new overrules and supersedes the old. We don't just have a new individual identity in Christ, but a new corporate identity. We're not just individuals; together we form one New Man in Christ (Eph 2:8-15), His New Creation, one People of God, one Body & Bride of Christ, one forever Family, living stones forming a single Temple of God. We're God's people, redeemed by His Blood (Rev 5:8-10). We have a common origin in His death & resurrection, a common identity in Christ, and a common purpose to live for (glorify) Him who loved us (Gal 3:26-28). We are all ONE (entity) in Christ Jesus (Gal 3:28). As in Adam, we're all of one blood (Acts 17:26), so in Christ, we're of one blood (the Blood of Christ). Being in Christ & His family is our primary (core) identity. Our allegiance to Christ overwhelms all other loyalties, and His command is to love one another. We celebrate our natural & national diversity, but most of all we celebrate our identity & unity in Christ, where God has broken down all racial divisions.

Derek Walker explores the concept of the 'One New Man' and our identity in Christ. Delve into biblical teachings on our natural and spiritual identity, and how our identity is transformed by our spiritual rebirth in Christ, when we became a new creation in Him.

11/6/25 - Many of the sharpest divisions between Catholics and Protestants trace back not to Scripture itself, but to how words and ideas have been interpreted across centuries of separation. Dr. Adam Van Wart, professor of theology at Ave Maria University, unpacks the roots of these misunderstandings and offers a path forward rooted in truth and charity. Dr. Van Wart explains how key debates - such as faith alone versus faith and works, Scripture alone versus Sacred Tradition, and the role of the Church's magisterial authority - often stem from differences in emphasis and historical context rather than outright contradiction. Drawing upon the writings of St. Augustine, St. Thomas Aquinas, and early Reformers like Luther and Calvin, he demonstrates how theological language developed in response to real pastoral concerns, and how those differences became hardened into divisions over time. If you've ever wondered why Christians still struggle to understand one another after 500 years of dialogue, or how we might finally move toward genuine unity in Christ, this episode offers a thoughtful, hopeful vision rooted in history, theology, and the enduring witness of the Church.

In this episode of Thriving Together with the Women Soaring Team, Alora leads an honest and faith-filled conversation about distinguishing personal convictions from salvation issues.As Christian women, it's easy to blur the lines between what God calls us personally to do and what is a biblical truth for all believers.Join us as we dive into Scripture, grace, and discernment, exploring how personal convictions—whether it's about homeschooling, modesty, entertainment, or lifestyle—should never become law or a measure of someone's salvation.This episode offers a refreshing reminder that unity in Christ doesn't mean uniformity, and that our Christian faithflourishes when rooted in love, humility, and biblical truth.Perfect for Christian women, military wives, homeschool moms, and anyone striving to walk in grace and truth while respecting the diverse ways God works in each believer's heart.You can now watch our Podcasts on YouTube: WS YouTube PageWS INSTAGRAMWS FACEBOOKContact Us

Today,as we are looking at the last verses of Ephesians 2, we need to remember thatPaul has been talking about separation beginning in verses 11-12. TheJews were separated from the Gentiles, the Gentiles from the Jews. They bothwere separated from God because of sin. Next, we see reconciliation inverses 13-18. How now through the blood of Jesus Christ, we've been reconciledto God. We can be reconciled and have peace with one another. In these lastverses, Paul speaks of unification.  Paulhas repeated the word "one" to emphasize the unifyingwork of Christ: "who has made both one" (Ephesians2:14); "to create in Himself one new man" (Ephesians2:15); "might reconcile them both to God in one body" (Ephesians2:16); and, "we both have access by one Spirit" (Ephesians2:18). All spiritual distance and division have been overcome by Christ. In theclosing verses of this chapter, Paul gives three pictures that illustrate theunity of believing Jews and Gentiles in the church. Weare now one new nation (v. 19a).  Israel was God'schosen nation, but they rejected their Redeemer and suffered the consequences.The kingdom was taken from them and given to "a nation bringing forththe fruits thereof” (Matthew 21:43). This "new nation" isthe church. “But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holynation, His own special people, (1 Peter 2:9-10).  Inthe Old Testament, the nations were reckoned by their descent from Shem, Ham,or Japheth (Genesis 10). In the Book of Acts, we see these three familiesunited in Christ. In Acts 8, a descendant of Ham is saved, the Ethiopiantreasurer. In Acts 9, a descendant of Shem, Saul of Tarsus, who became Paul theapostle. And in Acts 10, the descendants of Japheth, the Gentiles in thehousehold of the Roman soldier, Cornelius. Sin has divided mankind, but Christunites by His Spirit. All believers, regardless of national background, belongto that "holy nation" with citizenship in heaven (Philippians3:20-21). “For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly waitfor the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ". Weare now one family(v. 19b). “But fellow citizens with the saints and members of the householdof God”.  Through our faith in Jesus Christ,we enter into God's family, and God becomes our Father. This wonderful familyof God is found in two places, "in heaven and earth" (Ephesians3:15). Living believers are on earth and believers who have died are in heaven.None of God's children are "under the earth" (Philippians2:10) or in any other place in the universe. We are all brothers and sisters inthe one family, no matter what racial, national, or physical distinctions wemay possess. Weare now one temple(vv. 20-22). In the Book of Genesis, God "walked" with His people.Enoch walked with God (Genesis. 5:22-24). And Noah walked with God (Genesis6:9). But then in the Book of Exodus, God decided to "dwell" with Hispeople:  (Exodus 25:8). God dwelt in thetabernacle (Exodus 40:34-38) until Israel's sins caused "the glory todepart" when the Philistines captured the ark in battle. (1 Samuel 4).  ThenGod dwelt in the temple Solomon built (1 Kings 8:1-11). But again Israel sinnedand the glory departed: “Then the glory of the LORD departed from thethreshold of the temple…” (Ezekiel 10:18-19). God's next dwelling place wasthe body of Christ: “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and webeheld His glory " (John 1:14). But men took and nailed this body to a cross. Today,through His Spirit, God dwells in the church, the temple of God. God does notdwell in man-made temples, including church buildings (Acts 7:48-50). Goddwells in the hearts of those who have trusted Christ: (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). And God dwellsin the church collectively as we see in these last verses in Ephesians 2:20-22. Ourunity is in Christ and is best displayed when we love one another despite ourdifferences! GodBless!

In this episode of High Value Discussions, we sit down with Lam Pham. He is the founder of The Hoop Ministry, a faith driven movement where God's love spreads through basketball, mentorship, and community. What started as a vision to merge faith with the game has grown into a ministry impacting lives both on and off the court. Lam also serves as a Basketball Skills Development Trainer at The Grove Community Collective, where he helps athletes sharpen their game while grounding them in purpose and discipline. Known for his humility, leadership, and heart for serving others, Lam continues to use basketball as a vessel for the Gospel. Through Lam's light and fruit, he embodies what it means to use your gifts for God's glory.High Value Discussions is produced/edited by: https://assetmediaproduction.com/If you could be so kind and subscribe to my Youtube channel, like, comment, and share.As well as giving a 5 star rating followed by a review on Apple Podcast and Spotify.This helps the show grow tremendously, and I would greatly appreciate the support as I promise to continue to give value to each and every one of you.Connect with Lam Pham:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lamm.phamThe Hoop Ministry: https://www.instagram.com/thehoopministryCoach Lam: https://www.instagram.com/_coach_lamThe Grove Community Collective: https://www.instagram.com/the.grove.ccFollow High Value Discussions Socials:YouTube: https://m.youtube.com/@HighValueDiscussions/videosApple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/high-value-discussions/id1704921472Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/55cxAJO4lPphznNGTTo1A8Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/highvaluediscussions/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@highvaluediscussionsHigh Value Beings:HVB: https://www.highvaluebeings.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/highvaluebeingsHigh Value Analysis:X: https://x.com/hvanalysisLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-gonzalez-4b21a72b1/

“He was battling demons on the dance floor — until Jesus stepped in.”Dancer, filmmaker, and worshipper Ryan Green joins Rita Springer for one of the most powerful conversations yet, a journey from darkness to divine purpose. Ryan shares his journey from street dance and witchcraft to encountering God through movement. He and Rita reveal how creativity is more than talent, it's a weapon of worship. From spiritual warfare in dance battles to the church's fear of art, they expose how the enemy twists what God designed to release His presence. Ryan also shares how he's using dance to fight truancy in D.C. and why he believes the church must reclaim art as ministry.They don't shy away from hard topics either, tackling issues of race, identity, and the “social justice gospel,” and calling believers back to kingdom truth and unity in Christ.

What does true unity in Christ really look like? In today's episode, host Lauren Alessi guides us through the timeless wisdom of 1 Corinthians 1:10, exploring the call to agree in Christ and overcome division within the church. Together, we'll reflect on how submitting our opinions and disagreements to God's Word leads us closer to perfect unity—even when our human nature wants to disagree. As a community, let's discover how embracing God's truth allows division to lose its power and brings us together in Christlike fellowship.Come join us in prayer and devotion, as we seek God's heart for unity and invite Him to reveal ways we can become more united as followers of Jesus.Want to get resources related to this episode? Enter your info at https://www.mymorningdevo.co/newsletter/ and we'll send it to your inbox!Tap HERE to send us a text! BECOME A FOUNDING "MY MORNING DEVOTIONAL" MEMBERIf you enjoy your 5 minute daily dose of heaven, we would appreciate your support, and we have a fun way for you to partner with the MMD community! We've launched our "Buy Me a Coffee" membership where you can buy us a latte, OR become a founding member and get monthly bonus video episodes! To donate, go to mymorningdevo.co/join! Support the showNEW TO MY MORNING DEVOTIONAL? We're so glad you're here! We're the Alessis, a ministry family working together in a church in Miami, FL, and we're so blessed to partner with the My Morning Devotional community and continue the great work done by the show's creator and our friend, Alison Delamota.Join our Community Subscribe to the show on this app Share this with a friend Join our newsletter and get additional resources Follow Us on ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠Facebook⁠ ⁠Leave a review Support Our Friends and Family Connect with the original host of MMD Alison Delamota Follow our family podcast The Family Business with The Alessis Check out our Worship Music Hear the new music project "Praise the Lord EP" from Metro Life Worship and Mary AlessiListen on SpotifyWatch on YouTube

Guarding our hearts against false teaching and finding unity in Christ.We discussed how legalism often arises from false teaching, reflecting on 2 Corinthians 4:4 and the enemy's efforts to blind hearts and minds from the truth. Together, we looked at how each Gospel reveals a unique aspect of Jesus—His humanity, servanthood, lineage, and divinity—and how this full picture strengthens our faith. We affirmed that while the enemy constantly tries to distort truth, God's redemptive plan remains unstoppable and victorious.We also talked about the importance of serving one master and staying rooted in our identity in Christ. False teaching can appeal to the flesh and lead to self-dependence, so we reminded ourselves of the need for constant cleansing through the Word and submission to God. We reflected on how returning to grace protects us from deception, and how humility and submission bring rest rather than striving.Our conversation turned toward community and divine purpose, emphasizing prayer, unity, and the vital role of the local assembly in strengthening one another. We encouraged each other to keep seeking God's will together and to stay sensitive to His Spirit's guidance regarding future direction—whether that means a new meeting space, radio outreach, or simply continuing to grow together in grace and truth.Themes: Discernment against false teaching and legalism The battle between the flesh and the Spirit Submission and humility as protection from deception Unity and purpose within the body of Christ Dependence on the Holy Spirit for directionScripture Reference: 2 Corinthians 4:4Reflection Question: Where in my own walk am I still relying on self-effort instead of resting in the truth and grace found in Christ?

This Sunday, Pastor Rheva shared a powerful message from 1 Corinthians 1 titled “Give Us Wisdom.”Paul wrote to the young church in Corinth—a diverse, fast-growing community struggling with division. Pastor Rheva reminded us that, like them, we sometimes let personalities, opinions, or cultural trends pull us apart. But Paul calls us back to unity in Christ, the One who was crucified for us.The message of the cross may seem foolish to the world, but it is the very power and wisdom of God. Human wisdom—no matter how intelligent or advanced—can't replace what only God reveals through His Spirit.Pastor Rheva encouraged us to:Stay united around Christ, not divided by differences.Seek God's wisdom, not the world's opinions.Remember that if we lack wisdom, we can ask—and God gives it generously (James 1:5).Let's continue to walk in the power of the cross and the wisdom that comes from above.For more info, you can go to our website, check us out on Instagram, Facebook, or YouTube. If you would like to support STUDIO financially, you can do so here.Have a great week!

The Bible isn't just another book—it's alive. In this message kicking off our Ephesians series, we explore how God's Word has the power to transform your life from the inside out. Paul's letter to the church in Ephesus reveals God's incredible plan of salvation, adoption, and unity in Christ. It's a reminder that you were chosen, redeemed, and sealed with the Holy Spirit—and that same power that raised Jesus from the grave lives in you. Whether you're new to faith or have followed Jesus for years, this message will help you see why reading and studying Scripture is essential for spiritual growth.

Our journey through 1 Corinthians ends with Paul's closing words in chapter 16. He ties together the heart of his message—our unity in Christ—and shows what that looks like in practice. It's a fitting conclusion to this letter and to our series, reminding us again that we are called to be saints together.

Before we can walk in new life, we must lay aside what no longer belongs. In this closing lesson of Christ Over Culture, Pastor James D. Gailliard unpacks Colossians 3:5–11, showing how real transformation means more than new thinking — it demands new living.You'll learn how to:Expose and uproot sins of desire, emotion, and divisionAlign your daily choices with your spiritual identityEmbrace unity in Christ without losing your cultural storyAs Pastor Gailliard reminds us, we're not being called to try harder — but to trust deeper. Listen in and start purging what doesn't fit your new life in Christ.Support the showThank you for listening to this podcast! Follow Pastor James D. Gailliard on all social media @jdgailliard and get connected with Word Tabernacle Church by going to https://wordtab.net/ #EveryoneThriving

Segment 1: • Conservative Christianity saw a resurgence decades ago—but pride and inflated opinions fractured it. • The MacArthur Memorial revealed surprising unity with leaders like Piper, raising big questions. • Are we elevating secondary issues to essentials and repeating secular cancel culture? Segment 2: • Scott Aniol's “Conviction and Charity” points toward a healthier future for conservative Christianity. • Tone and tenor matter—we've all felt and likely contributed to the online heat. • G3's pivot could help the local pastor and church recalibrate. Segment 3: • Key question: when do you call out error, and when do you show charity? • Biblical conviction must never fade, but secondary issues shouldn't destroy fellowship. • The church must grow in discernment without weaponizing it. Segment 4: • Theological sharpness is good—but not our identity. • Have we been distracted from our Father's business by endless squabbles? • Unity in Christ must outweigh division over non-essentials. ___ Thanks for listening! Wretched Radio would not be possible without the financial support of our Gospel Partners. If you would like to support Wretched Radio we would be extremely grateful. VISIT https://fortisinstitute.org/donate/ If you are already a Gospel Partner we couldn't be more thankful for you if we tried!

Segment 1: • John MacArthur's memorial included surprising voices like Alistair Begg—raising questions about unity and division. • Ecumenism: should secondary disagreements divide us, or is cancel-culture thinking creeping into the church? • Challenge: Have we cut off brothers and sisters unnecessarily? Segment 2: • John Piper unexpectedly delivered a 16-minute eulogy at MacArthur's memorial. • Longstanding disagreements didn't prevent friendship, fellowship, and mutual respect. • Are we too quick to divide where MacArthur himself did not? Segment 3: • Piper praised MacArthur as “an extraordinary preacher,” showing a deep bond of friendship. • Encouragement: disagreements don't have to equal disdain. • Can Christians model unity around the essentials while holding firm convictions on secondary issues? Segment 4: • Piper's presence shocked many—but highlighted love and brotherhood over acrimony. • Theological debates are a means, not the end—Christ is the center. • The church must choose: division over secondary issues, or unity in Christ? ___ Thanks for listening! Wretched Radio would not be possible without the financial support of our Gospel Partners. If you would like to support Wretched Radio we would be extremely grateful. VISIT https://fortisinstitute.org/donate/ If you are already a Gospel Partner we couldn't be more thankful for you if we tried!