Podcasts about wedding feast

Jesus said, “Many are called but few are chosen.” For many Christians, these words of Jesus should bring a pause and consider moment. What was Jesus saying here? If we believe “God is love,” and we believe Jesus came as our Savior, do we also believe that everyone outside of Christianity, outside of this call, is lost and gone forever? Is this what Jesus was saying? If so, then how does that square with God being love? Is Jesus saying God is love, but only for the few whom He chooses, and the rest of His human creation are essentially garbage? Isn't that a massive contradiction? If we are willing to examine this statement by Jesus in the light of Scripture, we will find a completely different answer. What we will find is a logic and a harmony founded upon God's love AND His justice. This statement of Jesus appears at the end of the Parable of the Wedding Feast. To properly understand its meaning, we need to connect it with God's character of love and justice. Reviewing the Abrahamic Covenant is a good place to start. Initially, Israel was called to be the sole source of the “stars of heaven”—a spiritual seed that would bless the world. However, national rejection of Jesus meant they forfeited this opportunity. Still, they weren't permanently cast off; they remain essential to God's plan as the “sand of the seashore,” the natural seed who will bless the world on earth. The parable illustrates God's persistent calling to those who could become true disciples of Jesus: First invitation: Offered through Jesus' ministry to Israel. Second: Extended at Pentecost by the apostles. Third: Went out to the Gentiles, beginning with Cornelius. This teaches us that discipleship is not based on heritage but on being drawn by God. The “many” called spans time, culture and background, but the chosen are those who respond fully to the invitation. This call involves great responsibility. Discipleship requires self-denial, daily sacrifice, transformation and leaving behind worldly attachments. Like wedding guests required to wear the provided garment, those called must be “clothed” in Christ's righteousness. Failing to do so leads to exclusion—not eternal torment, but the sorrow of lost opportunity. Those who are chosen become part of a "royal priesthood" and "holy nation" (1 Peter 2:9), called to reflect God's character and ultimately bless all mankind. Importantly, the rest of humanity is not abandoned. Many scriptures point to a future restoration when all people will have opportunity for salvation. The current calling is simply the first phase of a broader redemptive plan that will ultimately fulfill God's promise to bless all the families of the earth.

In this sermon from Matthew 22:1-14, Austin Farley looks at the parable of the wedding feast, which illustrates the kingdom of heaven and the importance of accepting God's invitation to salvation. There are three important realities of the kingdom of heaven: there is an open invitation, rejection or dismissal is deadly, and righteous clothing is required. This parable brings strong warnings, but even greater hope if we believe in Him. From our Sunday service at Grace Bible Church of Bend.

God's Great Plan (1) (audio) David Eells 6/18/25 Many prophetic words are not understood in the day they are given. Just as the scriptures show, they come ahead so that warnings are taken and spiritual warfare done. Also, many more people can partake of them this way.   Now Is the Time of My Great Plan Glynda Lomax - 10/01/2012 Now is the time of My Great Plan for the people of the earth. For thousands of years, I have planned the victory of My people in great detail. Now it is time for My people to rise up and walk as I have called you to walk, talk as I have called you to talk, for I have much to accomplish through you, My people. Cast your burdens to Me and walk forth as I have called you to do. Those I have called to ministry will now be positioned to move forward as never before. A great and glorious destiny awaits you, My people, such as you cannot imagine. Great shall be the reward of all My people who serve Me in this time. Yes, there shall be many trials and much tribulation also, but My glory through My people will outshine the darkness in the final days. Look up, My people, your redemption draws near! Glynda gives these verses: Heb.12:1 Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, 1Pe.5:7 Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. 1Pe.4:12-13 Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: 13 But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. Rev.22:12 And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be. Deu.4:29-31 But if from thence thou shalt seek the Lord thy God, thou shalt find him, if thou seek him with all thy heart and with all thy soul. 30 When thou art in tribulation, and all these things are come upon thee, even in the latter days, if thou turn to the Lord thy God, and shalt be obedient unto his voice; 31 (For the Lord thy God is a merciful God;) he will not forsake thee, neither destroy thee, nor forget the covenant of thy fathers which he sware unto them. Isa.60:1 Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the LORD is risen upon thee. Luk.21:28 And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.   Strategic Couplings Glynda Lomax - 09/26/2012 My children, the heat is being turned up in your lives and in your world. I will soon begin to place My devoted ones into position for battle as I have called them to stand. Some of you I will place in pairs - strategic couplings for the battles ahead. I have chosen mates for you that complement your weaknesses. They will be your rear guards on the earth as you march forth into all I have called you to do. Many of you I will pair with unlikely counterparts, of which the world around you will not approve, nor understand. Those near you cannot always see My mighty hand in all I am doing in your lives. Be careful, My children, of judging with your eyes or your hearts - judge only by My Spirit, for you walk in danger of calling My plans evil when you do this, and I do not consider lightly those who call My good evil, just as those who call evil good. Refrain your lips from speaking evil and seek Me only. Judge not what does not concern your own lives, for you shall see much around you in these end times you will not understand. The times approaching are perilous indeed, and I have a plan for each of your lives. You will not always understand what I am doing or the many ways I shall bless you through it. Many plans of the Evil One are being hatched behind the scenes, the horrors of which many are unaware. My children who have been watching and praying for My Son's soon return shall not be caught unawares. Rest now while you can, My children, for a fierce battle looms on the horizon of your lives and will soon be at your doors. Glynda gives these verses: Isa.58:8-10 (NIV) 8 and your healing will quickly appear; then your righteousness[a] will go before you, and the glory of the Lord will be your rear guard. 9 Then you will call, and the Lord will answer; you will cry for help, and he will say: Here am I. If you do away with the yoke of oppression, with the pointing finger and malicious talk, 10 and if you spend yourselves in behalf of the hungry and satisfy the needs of the oppressed, then your light will rise in the darkness, and your night will become like the noonday. Isa.55:9 For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts. Isa.5:20-21 20 Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter! 21 Woe unto them that are wise in their own eyes, and prudent in their own sight! 2Ti.3:1 This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. Mat.7:1-5 1 Judge not, that ye be not judged. 2 For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again. 3 And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye? 4 Or how wilt thou say to thy brother, Let me pull out the mote out of thine eye; and, behold, a beam is in thine own eye? 5 Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother's eye. Rom.14:12-13 So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God. 13 Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother's way.   The Master's Plan Is Given G. W. - 11/21/2010 (David's notes in red) Part 1: I went to pray on Saturday night for full reconciliation for someone who was falling away. I could not pray. As I tried, my prayer returned to me. The word came to me, “I'm moving him out of the way to make room for another from the West”. Part 2: I had a dream Sunday night. It took place in the future. David had just received this email from me, which I wrote above as Part 1. David responded to the email by handing me a master plan. (Note: The email was sent to me on Monday, 11/22/10. I responded by sharing this interpretation of the parable of the master plan. This is the David's/Man-child's mission to receive and give revelation from the throne of God's plan on earth. Moses went up the mount to receive this and came down with his face glowing. Jesus also received this master plan and gave it to the disciples.) G. W. - I knew this master plan was the work that needed to be done by the people in the ministry. The master plan appeared to me in a hologram in the shape of a square. As I looked at the square before me, I knew it to be the uncomely parts of the body. (Note: There are many, many uncomely parts now but they will change through the Word from heaven. Remember this started with a falling away in Part 1 and now we see a raising up in Part 2. Luk.2:34 ... Behold, this [child] is set for the falling and the rising of many in Israel; and for a sign which is spoken against... This is the master plan.) G. W.- The hologram began to change, like a slot machine changes its images as it goes around. Different numbers began flashing, and in my mind I knew them to be the different workings in the ministry. (Note: The falling of the old order and raising up of the new five-fold ministers, the deacons [ministries] and the gifts in the ministry.) G. W. - I also realized that the positions were growing into greater honor in the body and they started to become chess pieces. (Note: Those who are growing in the image of Christ.) G. W. - I was waiting for the hologram flashes to go up to the highest honors in God. But as I was watching it go up, it came to the Rook piece and I was taken out of the dream. That was the last thing I recall from this dream. (Note: The revelation didn't go up to the king, who is normally the highest honor, because in this dream, the King gives the highest honors to those “in God”, as the dream says. The game is centered around the King and He is never taken. The highest honor didn't go as high as the queen because the Man-child is the head of the Queen on earth, just as David was the head of Jerusalem, which is the Bride, according to Revelation 21:9,10. The Rook is the second most powerful piece on the chess board and has the highest honor, the revelation went to, and represents the Man-child. G. W. - Excerpt from Chess Rules for Movement of the Rook: The rook, shaped like a castle, is one of the more powerful pieces on the board. (Note: The rook is represented by the lookout portion of a castle. Where the “watchman” would stand and fight to protect the castle. A Man-child has power to defend the Castle of Zion.) G. W. - The rooks, grouped with the queen, are often thought of as the “major pieces”. (Note: A Man-child can be seen with the queen and has a major advantage against a foe.) G. W. - Rooks are worth a bishop or a knight plus two pawns. (Note: Man-childs are greater than bishops or overseers and knights or warriors.) G. W. - The rook can move any number of squares in a straight line along any column or row. (Note: Man-childs only move on a straight path that is not impeded.) G. W. - They CANNOT move diagonally. (Note: Never a crooked path.) G. W. - The rook can move or capture only on this straight line. (Note: One can only take leadership by walking on the straight path.) G. W. - The simplicity of the rook's movement is indeed what makes it powerful. (Note: Man-childs, like Jesus, have a simple life and walk with power.) G. W. - It can cover a significant area of the board, and there are no areas which an opponent's piece -- moving one square at a time -- can slip through. (Note: Man-childs can move supernaturally to far places. The enemy cannot deceive them or outmaneuver them.) G. W. - The rook may also make a move in conjunction with the king. (Note: Like Jesus said, “I do always those things I see of my Father”.)   Bride Prepares for Man-child Deborah Horton - 09/20/2010 (David's notes in red) As David has said, something wonderful is going to happen. :) (Looking forward to it.) In a dream, I was inside a large building, on the bottom floor, with people everywhere. They were all waiting for a Jewish man and while they were waiting, they were very busy all through the building. I have no idea what they were busy with -- can't remember. (The coming Jewish man is Jesus, Who will inhabit the Man-child as “Christ in you the hope of glory”. The building is the House of God, His people, which is being prepared for His coming habitation. I was just saying to several brethren that I hope we can prepare it ahead of time.) Then, as I looked around, I saw the Jewish man come in, along with a young woman/girl, who was his assistant somehow. I think she was setting up some audio equipment (speakers, etc.) (The Bride is making ready for the Man-child to reach many people.) Even though I saw him, no one else seemed able to do so. (He is coming in the heart of the true  House.) It wasn't that he was invisible; they could look at him and see him, but at the same time they didn't see him (this is hard to explain and doesn't make a whole lot of sense), and they kept on with whatever it was that they were doing. (We can see the body He will inhabit but many don't recognize Him to the extent He is in it now.) The next thing I can remember is that I walked over to him and he asked me to sing with him, but I told him that I couldn't because I didn't “know the language” or “speak Hebrew” (can't remember exactly how I worded it). (Singing with Him means to be in harmony with Him.) I think he was a little disappointed by that. (Reminds me of Miriam's song about Moses and the Israelites crossing the Red Sea into the wilderness tribulation and the destruction of the old man, or, as you say, the song only the 144,000 first-fruits could sing.) His assistant was still working on getting everything set up. As I looked at him, I absolutely had to give him a great big hug, which I did. I squeezed him like there was no tomorrow -- poor guy! And then I let go, although I didn't want to let go of him. He was completely ordinary-looking, about two inches taller than me, I think he was wearing a work shirt and jeans -- very informal. He was so ordinary that there was nothing you could say about him to describe him. (As Isaiah 53 says, the first individual body Jesus came in was unremarkable, so the corporate first-fruits body will be plain folks.) He had dark hair; I can't remember if he had a beard, but I don't think he did. He reminded me of a teddy bear and there was no way I could ever be afraid of him. He wasn't skinny or fat, just had a tiny bit of extra weight on his belly, so you could tell that he wasn't a very physical person. He radiated such confidence, such peace and such love! (The anointing of the latter rain is coming to manifest the attributes of Jesus in His first-fruits body, like Hosea 6:1-3 says.) The last scene I remember is that somehow pigeons were all around us and they kept landing on him. They didn't want to get off. He was petting them and let me pet them, too, and then he'd put them down where they would walk about and coo. There were three specific pigeons with beautiful markings, as gorgeous as any pigeon is ever going to get without being a specialty-breed show pigeon. He handed me one that had some dark black markings on its back and it felt like velour; it was so soft. (Maybe these are the overcomers, 30-, 60- and 100-fold. According to Romans 8, the whole creation is awaiting the manifestation of sonship or Christ in you because it too will be delivered.)   White Horse Prepared for Rider Linda L. Gray - 09/29/2016 (David's notes in red) I had this dream where I was inside my home when I noticed an unusual white cloud formation through one of my windows. To get a better look at the cloud formation, I went outside. It was a clear blue sky with no clouds elsewhere but this particular large formation in front of my house. (Nothing else will be more significant concerning changes in the world for God's people.) Within the formation of clouds, I saw a white horse. (The Bride who lives above this evil world in heavenly places by abiding IN Christ. Eph.2:4 but God, being rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, 5 even when we were dead through our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace have ye been saved), 6 and raised us up with him, and made us to sit with him in the heavenly places, in Christ Jesus: 7 that in the ages to come he might show the exceeding riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. The Bride as a cloud will water the earth with the Word of God. The rest of the Church has not arrived at this place and not chosen to be in the Bride.) There was no rider on the horse that I could see as the clouds kept going around the horse, making it difficult to get a clearer view. Psa.48:2 Beautiful for situation, the joy of the whole earth, is mount Zion, on the sides of the north, the city of the great King. (The white horse is the Bride or Zion, as John was told in Revelation. All of the horses in the seals of Revelation 6 are white (representing holiness conquering the Beast), red (war), black (famine and economic collapse) and pale (death and Hades). The hoses represent the flesh of men who serve the spirit and leadership that rides them and rules over them. All of these horses are people who bring these judgments to the world. When they are empowered, they will have riders upon them. The first rider is the Lord in His first-fruits Man-child body who will ride/rule the Bride white horse and through them the Church. At the time of this dream, this first rider is not anointed or set on the horse. When Jesus was anointed to lead the first of the disciples to recognize Him, John said, “He that hath the Bride is the Bridegroom”. But that rider is coming, according to this next verse Linda received.) Rev.1:7 Behold, he cometh with the clouds (notice, the white horse); and every eye shall see him, and they that pierced him; and all the tribes of the earth shall mourn over him. Even so, Amen. This verse has a more literal interpretation at the end of the tribulation, but it accurately describes in the spirit what will happen when the white horse rider, Jesus in the Man-child body, leads the other horse judgments in the earth, which is exactly what Moses the Man-child did. He brought the other judgments. “He cometh with clouds”. The Gematria for “clouds” here is 144 x 10. 144 is the number of the Man-child and 10 is the number of the Word or law he obeys and teaches. “Were purchased from among men to be first-fruits” is verse 14:4. Notice the verse number 144. Rev.14:1 And I saw, and behold, the Lamb standing on the mount Zion, and with him a hundred and forty and four thousand, having his name, and the name of his Father, written on their foreheads. 4 These are they that were not defiled with women (sects or denominations); for they are virgins (not having received the seed or word of man). These are they that follow the Lamb whithersoever he goeth. These were purchased from among men, to be the firstfruits unto God and unto the Lamb. Both Jesus and Jesus in the Man-child as a repeat of history fit this. Psa.118:22 The stone which the builders rejected Is become the head of the corner. Circling the outer perimeter of the cloud formation was a large plane, which apparently had seen this formation (surveillance) and was trying to get a better view. (Haman attempted to bring down the Bride before Mordecai came to leadership; before the Man-child was anointed to rule in the Book of Esther. The white horse rider is typed by Mordecai, Moses, Joseph, David, Jesus and many more. This was a judgment on Egypt, as a type of the world. Each of these men and many like them led the Bride, and through them the Church, to freedom and power. Each of these also brought judgment on the Beast body, as a type of the world Beast body of seven heads and 10 horns.) I was very excited and wanted a photo of the beautiful white horse, so I went inside my house to retrieve my cell phone. When I came back outside, the airspace was filled with war planes covering the entire field of vision, flying in a grid formation heading from south to north. It looked like a tic-tac-toe-type grid with the planes in perfect formation. Rev.12:7 And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels going forth to war with the dragon; and the dragon warred and his angels; 8 And they prevailed not, neither was their place found any more in heaven. 9 And the great dragon was cast down, the old serpent, he that is called the Devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world; he was cast down to the earth, and his angels were cast down with him. 10 And I heard a great voice in heaven, saying, Now is come the salvation, and the power, and the kingdom of our God, and the authority of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, who accuseth them before our God day and night. 11 And they overcame him because of the blood of the Lamb, and because of the word of their testimony; and they loved not their life even unto death. And the Dragon or Satan was cast down to rule over his world body of seven heads and 10 horns, which is beaten by He who “came with the clouds”, the Man-child, and saints in whom the Lord lives. Jesus in the Man-child reformers will conquer the world beast. Dan.7:13 I saw in the night-visions, and, behold, there came with the clouds of heaven one like unto a son of man, and he came even to the ancient of days, and they brought him near before him. 14 And there was given him dominion, and glory, and a kingdom, that all the peoples, nations, and languages should serve him: his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom that which shall not be destroyed. ... 22 until the ancient of days came, and judgment was given to the saints of the Most High, and the time came that the saints possessed the kingdom. The dream then ended. (Whatever was in the clouds, the powers that be didn't like, and they were ready to wage war against it.) (Yes, the powers that be are the head of the Dragon body on earth. They are Satanists whom we are casting down.) This preparation for the Bride to receive her head fits well with this next dream of the Wedding Feast.   Wedding and Temple Cakes M.L.- 09/22/2016 (David's notes in red) I woke up from a dream, and was taken back by it, but in a good way. I was in a huge room with many very sturdy tables. They were all square with white tablecloths. Each table had an extremely large wedding cake on it. (Time for the Wedding Feast to begin, the tribulation seven days before the bride is escorted by the virgins to the Groom's home in Heaven.) These cakes seemed to be about four feet tall and many inches round, coming to about two inches to the edge of the table all the way around. They were multi-tiered and in various designs and were all decorated white-on-white. Nothing stood out that would distract the eyes from one cake to another. Flowers in white in all sizes, small pillars of white, miniature fountains, white ribbon, white doves. Looking at all this, it was magnificent, all made according to their Creator's desire. After taking all this in, I looked to the right and saw the most magnificent of all cakes: a replica of the Temple. (The temple of God's presence is in the Jerusalem Bride, who is born from above.) It resembled light gray marble stone and was very smooth without a flaw in the icing! It stood about five feet high (representing grace), with the outside perimeters a square. And it was all cake. It was displayed on a very sturdy table with a white tablecloth draped to the floor. It had ornate gold trim work on top of the roof line. It reminded me of the points on a “king's crown”. (The Bride is a crown in Isa.62:1 For Zion's sake will I not hold my peace, and for Jerusalem's sake I will not rest, until her righteousness go forth as brightness, and her salvation as a lamp that burneth. 2 And the nations shall see thy righteousness, and all kings thy glory, and thou shalt be called by a new name, which the mouth of Jehovah shall name. 3 Thou shalt also be a crown of beauty in the hand of Jehovah, and a royal diadem in the hand of thy God. At the base of these points was a wide piece that looked like “crown molding”, the color of the building itself. In the same width of the molding above was a decorative, gold ornate area going around the top. On the two front corners were pillars, and a pillar on each side of the door. On top of each pillar were gold embellishments. Then I woke up. The wedding cakes are made ready. (For the Marriage Feast.) I didn't see any tables that were “set”. (Yet). The Bride has made herself ready. She is in fine linen, pure and white. Eph.5:27 that he might present the church to himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish. These are the righteous acts of the saints. Obedience: Jas.1:22 But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deluding your own selves. 4:17 To him therefore that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin. Faith: Heb.11:6 And without faith it is impossible to be well-pleasing unto him; for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that seek after him. Fruit: Mat.7:20 Therefore by their fruits ye shall know them. Love: 1Jn.4:7 Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is begotten of God, and knoweth God. The temple cake: The temple is where God dwells. We are also God's temple, for He dwells in us. 1Co.3:16 Know ye not that ye are a temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? If any man destroyeth the temple of God, him shall God destroy; 17 ... for the temple of God is holy, and such are ye ... 19) For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. For it is written, He that taketh the wise in their craftiness...   It's Not What They Thought Sandy Shaw - 09/21/2016 (David's notes in red) In a dream, I landed on my feet in a big city (Babylon/US), for I was translated there. Immediately, I felt the earth quake and I could tell by the surroundings that there had been others. (The time is the great earthquakes just before the tribulation; some will help others through translation, as happened to me.) I can see a road buckled, and the top half of a skyscraper had fallen to the ground. People were running and screaming, and I saw two little girls to the right. The five-year-old (five is grace) had long blond curly hair (1 Corinthians 11: submission to the sun/Son) and deep dimples and wore a blue dress (dressed up with heavenly works). The other little girl was black (representing walking in darkness) and seven years old. She wore a red dress and had dark pigtails with red ribbons (the color of the red Dragon body). I walked to them and asked them where their fathers were. (Fathers represent heads of churches.) They didn't know. The black-haired girl said that they were there for Daily Vacation Bible School. I asked, “Where are your mothers?” The seven-year-old black girl said, “She died a few months ago”. (The apostate Church mother is dead.) And the five-year-old very excitedly said, “Oh, my mom has already been with Jesus”. (Her mother is the early Church because she abides in Christ. 1Jn.2:24 As for you, let that abide in you which ye heard from the beginning. If that which ye heard from the beginning abide in you, ye also shall abide in the Son, and in the Father. 25 And this is the promise which he promised us, even the life eternal.) The ground started to shake some more and I knew that they were not safe. (At the time of the great earthquakes many will be helped to escape by the righteous.) So I grabbed the two little girl's wrists and started to fly over the city. (Although I have only done this instantaneously, I believe translation can happen slowly like flying. It is in the Spirit, though, and unseen by the world. It is without wings or propulsion, so it is not literally flying. Flying also represents overcoming the world and its law of sin and death, represented by gravity, to ascend into heavenly places in Christ by abiding in Jesus Who is the Word. Eph.2:4 but God, being rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, 5 even when we were dead through our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace have ye been saved), 6 and raised us up with him, and made us to sit with him in the heavenly places, in Christ Jesus. The woman in the wilderness tribulation was given the overcoming wings of the eagle by the Man-child to escape the Dragon/serpent and his works. Rev.12:14 And there were given to the woman the two wings of the great eagle, that she might fly into the wilderness unto her place, where she is nourished for a time, and times, and half a time [by the Man-child body], from the face of the serpent.) The seven-year-old said, “I don't understand”. Then she asked, “What is this ...the tribulation?” We landed on a suspension bridge stretched out over the water. All of a sudden, the bridge became a slide (falling into the water) and before we got to the bottom, we started to fly again. (The way of escape is cut off as in Jer.25:35 And the shepherds shall have no way to flee, nor the principal of the flock to escape. But the righteous always have a way of escape, even if by flight. 1Co.10:13 There hath no temptation taken you but such as man can bear: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation make also the way of escape, that ye may be able to endure it.) We flew over the city and into the country, where there was a huge red barn, and we landed. Cars were coming up on both sides of the barn. People were coming up to it because they knew it was a refuge and a safe place and all the people around were in a state of confusion. These people were Christians and yet confused. The seven-year-old said, “Hey, that looks like my church barn!” And she let go of my hand and started running. (Many of the Church are confused by their doctrines but if they have walked with the Lord in a righteous life, they will escape. Even those who are chosen to come to understanding and holiness later will escape like the seven-year-old who walks in darkness.) The blond girl said, “There's my daddy!” He was sitting down on a folding chair inside the barn, elbows on his knees and head in his hands, and he said, “I don't understand. I don't understand”. The five-year-old shook his arm and said, “Daddy! I'm here! I'm here!” He mumbled, “Yeah, yeah”. She said, “No, Daddy, she brought me here (pointing to me)! We flew! We were flying! And we were on a big slide (toward death)”. The dad reached out and touched my hand and said, “Thank you. Thank you for bringing her here”. Then he said, in a daze, “Lord, I thought my heart was right with You”. I said, “If you were waiting for the rapture, it's not going to happen now or in the way that you think”. (At the time of the great quakes, tsunamis, volcanic activity, economic collapse, chaos, many will see that they have not escaped tribulation and will repent of this deception.) I heard the seven-year-old say, “Daddy! Daddy!” And he hugged her. She asked, “This is tribulation?” She waited for him to respond and said, “Jesus didn't come yet”. He fell to his knees crying and asking the Lord, “I thought I was in right standing with You. I thought my heart was right with You. I have been preaching for 35 years”. I grabbed his hand and said, “This isn't the rapture you're waiting for. That's not happening”. I said, “You come with me”. And we walked over to the other preacher who was sitting down. (The great earthquakes are at the beginning of the tribulation, as in Rev.8:5 And the angel taketh the censer; and he filled it with the fire of the altar, and cast it upon the earth (meteors striking the earth): and there followed thunders, and voices, and lightnings, and an earthquake. Notice that this came just before the first trumpet of the tribulation. 6 And the seven angels that had the seven trumpets prepared themselves to sound.) I told the two little girls to stay in the barn. Then I took them to the corner of the barn. I reached to the floor, pulled open the door to a root cellar, and grabbed two bottles of water. There was food there also. Then I took the preacher's hands and we went up and through the roof of the barn! (Meaning not physical flight.) And we flew to Tennessee. David and Michael were standing outside. They saw that we had landed. The preachers were confused about what had just happened. Then I said, “Now these two men can answer any questions you have about the rapture or anything else you think you're going through”. Michael asked, “Sandy, where have you been? Where were you?” I said, “I don't know. I was translated.” Michael said, “I should have known that.” Then I went back and got the girls and brought them to Tennessee. Then I woke up. By faith at random I received Isa.49:1 Listen, O isles, unto me; and hearken, ye peoples, from far: JEHOVAH hath called me from the womb; from the bowels of my mother hath he made mention of my name: 2 and he hath made my mouth like a sharp sword; in the shadow of his hand hath he hid me: and he hath made me a polished shaft; in his quiver hath he kept me close: 3 and he said unto me, Thou art my servant; Israel, in whom I will be glorified. 4 But I said, I have labored in vain, I have spent my strength for nought and vanity; yet surely the justice due to me is with JEHOVAH, and my recompense with my God. The rest of this chapter tells the magnificent story of His people being used to restore those of God's people who have been in captivity to the nations. 5 And now saith Jehovah that formed me from the womb to be his servant, to bring Jacob again to him, and that Israel be gathered unto him (for I am honorable in the eyes of Jehovah, and my God is become my strength); 6 yea, he saith, It is too light a thing that thou shouldest be my servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob, and to restore the preserved of Israel: I will also give thee for a light to the Gentiles, that thou mayest be my salvation unto the end of the earth. 7 Thus saith Jehovah, the Redeemer of Israel, and his Holy One, to him whom man despiseth, to him whom the nation abhorreth, to a servant of rulers: Kings shall see and arise; princes, and they shall worship; because of Jehovah that is faithful, even the Holy One of Israel, who hath chosen thee. 8 Thus saith Jehovah, In an acceptable time have I answered thee, and in a day of salvation have I helped thee; and I will preserve thee, and give thee for a covenant of the people, to raise up the land, to make them inherit the desolate heritages: 9 saying to them that are bound, Go forth; to them that are in darkness, Show yourselves. They shall feed in the ways, and on all bare heights shall be their pasture. 10 They shall not hunger nor thirst; neither shall the heat nor sun smite them: for he that hath mercy on them will lead them, even by springs of water will he guide them. 11 And I will make all my mountains a way, and my highways shall be exalted. 12 Lo, these shall come from far; and, lo, these from the north and from the west; and these from the land of Sinim. 13 Sing, O heavens; and be joyful, O earth; and break forth into singing, O mountains: for Jehovah hath comforted his people, and will have compassion upon his afflicted. 14 But Zion said, Jehovah hath forsaken me, and the Lord hath forgotten me. 15 Can a woman forget her sucking child, that she should not have compassion on the son of her womb? yea, these may forget, yet will not I forget thee. 16 Behold, I have graven thee upon the palms of my hands; thy walls are continually before me. 17 Thy children make haste; thy destroyers and they that made thee waste shall go forth from thee. 18 Lift up thine eyes round about, and behold: all these gather themselves together, and come to thee. As I live, saith Jehovah, thou shalt surely clothe thee with them all as with an ornament, and gird thyself with them, like a bride. 19 For, as for thy waste and thy desolate places, and thy land that hath been destroyed, surely now shalt thou be too strait for the inhabitants, and they that swallowed thee up shall be far away. 20 The children of thy bereavement shall yet say in thine ears, The place is too strait for me; give place to me that I may dwell. 21 Then shalt thou say in thy heart, Who hath begotten me these, seeing I have been bereaved of my children, and am solitary, an exile, and wandering to and fro? and who hath brought up these? Behold, I was left alone; these, where were they? (Converts coming from all over the World!) 22 Thus saith the Lord Jehovah, Behold, I will lift up my hand to the nations, and set up my ensign to the peoples; and they shall bring thy sons in their bosom, and thy daughters shall be carried upon their shoulders. 23 And kings shall be thy nursing fathers, and their queens thy nursing mothers: they shall bow down to thee with their faces to the earth, and lick the dust of thy feet; and thou shalt know that I am Jehovah; and they that wait for me shall not be put to shame. 24 Shall the prey be taken from the mighty, or the lawful captives be delivered? 25 But thus saith Jehovah, Even the captives of the mighty shall be taken away, and the prey of the terrible shall be delivered; for I will contend with him that contendeth with thee, and I will save thy children. 26 And I will feed them that oppress thee with their own flesh; and they shall be drunken with their own blood, as with sweet wine: and all flesh shall know that I, Jehovah, am thy Saviour, and thy Redeemer, the Mighty One of Jacob.

The Parable of the Wedding Feast and the Authority of Christ | John Kirkpatrick | 06.15.25 by Capshaw Baptist

Title: Schemers, Sharks, and A Snitch Text: Acts 23:12-35 FCF: We often struggle trusting God when enemies surround us. Prop: Because man makes their plans but God guides their steps, we must trust the Lord. Scripture Intro: [Slide 1] Turn in your bible to Acts chapter 23. In a moment we'll begin reading from the LSB starting in verse 12. You can follow along in the pew bible or whatever version you prefer. After Paul narrowly escapes the clutches of the Sanhedrin, Jesus comes to him in the night and comforts him. He tells Paul to have courage because just as he has declared the gospel in Jerusalem he must also go to Rome and do the same. But we are still two and a half years away from Jesus' promise being fulfilled. In the remaining 5 and a half chapters of this book, we will see God's hand of providence working to have His apostle arrive in Rome at precisely the right time for him to be there. An apostle of God is never early, nor is he late, but arrives precisely when God needs him to. And that all begins with the episode today. Because of the events recorded in today's text, Paul's trip to Rome will be put on God's time table. So, let's stand to give honor to and to focus on the reading of the Word of God. Invocation: Sovereign Lord, You know the plans of the wicked. You have seen their devices and You know their hearts. You have measured the pride of men vying for power while they use others to get it. In a world that seems to be spiraling out of control, where the wicked prosper and the righteous fall, You have your eye even on the sparrows. Not one of them falls down dead without Your knowledge and You have ordered all things for the good of Your people – who are far more valuable than the birds. The Son has given us infinite worth by sending the Comforter to indwell us. Father use Your Spirit to give to us insight into Your word today to see Your good plan for Your children … even amid and through the plotting and power grabbing of ungodly men. Open our eyes today we pray in Jesus' name. Amen. Transition: Proverbs 16 kept flitting through my mind as I studied this passage. Let me read that to you now, by way of an introduction, even before we dive into the text of Acts 23. The plans of the heart belong to man, But the answer of the tongue is from Yahweh. 2 All the ways of a man are pure in his own sight, But Yahweh weighs the motives. 3 Commit your works to Yahweh And your plans will be established. 4 Yahweh has made everything for its own purpose, Even the wicked for the day of evil. 5 Everyone who is proud in heart is an abomination to Yahweh; Assuredly, he will not be unpunished. 6 By lovingkindness and truth iniquity is atoned for, And by the fear of Yahweh one turns away from evil. 7 When a man's ways are pleasing to Yahweh, He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him. 8 Better is a little with righteousness Than great produce with injustice. 9 The heart of man plans his way, But Yahweh directs his steps. With these words in mind, look with me at verse 12. I.) Mankind makes their wicked plans in secret, but we must trust the Lord. (12-15) a. [Slide 2] 12 - Now when it was day, the Jews formed a conspiracy and bound themselves under a curse, saying that they would neither eat nor drink until they had killed Paul. 13 - And there were more than forty who formed this scheme. i. Right on the heels of Paul being rescued out of the hands of the Jews… AGAIN… we find that the very next day he is right back in the fire. ii. The first scene of this episode opens with a group of 40 Jews who come up with a plan to do something especially vile. iii. Through our study of the gospel of Matthew and the book of Acts, we've seen the first century Jews do a lot of wicked things. Chief among them the betrayal and murder of their own Messiah. iv. Although the events of this text do not compare to the murder of their own God-King, it certainly has a rather sinister stench about it. v. Why is this so wicked? vi. First, we must understand the nature of a curse. 1. The words translated “bound under a curse” is one word. It is the word Anathematize. It means to submit to divine destruction for failure to uphold their end. 2. Even to submit to eternal Divine punishment if they eat or drink anything before they kill Paul. 3. May God cast me in hell if I eat or drink anything before I kill Paul. vii. Secondly, we must understand the foolishness of this curse. 1. First, there are two ways they fail this curse. Either they eat or drink something before they kill Paul, or they never kill Paul and die of starvation. 2. Second, this curse is only succeeded by them committing an act which God expressly forbids in the decalogue… You shall not murder. 3. Particularly heinous in the Mosaic law was someone who premeditated murder. 4. God hates hands that shed innocent blood and a heart that devises wicked schemes. Prov 6:16-19 viii. 40 Jewish men form this wicked plan. But they are not alone… b. [Slide 3] 14 - They came to the chief priests and the elders and said, “We have bound ourselves under a curse to taste nothing until we have killed Paul. 15 - So now you, along with the Sanhedrin, notify the commander to bring him down to you, as though you were going to determine his case more carefully; and we for our part are ready to slay him before he comes near.” i. They inform the chief priests and elders of Israel about the curse they have placed on themselves. ii. If the chief priests and elders were righteous, they would have these men thrown in jail. They would have at least refused to aid them. iii. Instead, they help to facilitate the plan. But what is the plan? iv. To go with the Sanhedrin to the Roman commander and notify him that the Sanhedrin would like a do over on the trial. They want to look more carefully at his case. v. This is, of course, a lie. vi. Add that to the growing list of sins that God hates wrapped up in this plot. vii. The plan then, is that while he is enroute to the Sanhedrin's chambers, these 40 men will accost and kill Paul. viii. Which is a plan that isn't without risk. Paul certainly would have some sort of Roman escort. It is possible that some of them may die or be executed for their hand in this. ix. This is the length to which these Jews will go to kill Paul. c. [Slide 4] Summary of the Point: Luke once again shows us the agency and responsibility of men. These 40 Jews, the chief priests, the elders, the Sanhedrin, all form this conspiracy, these secret plans whispered in empty halls with murder on their lips. God doesn't intervene here. He doesn't snap his fingers and snuff out the breathe of these conspirators. He doesn't prevent them from thinking of these sinful deeds. He doesn't kill them in their sleep. God allows wicked men to be wicked. To make their plans. However much we make of God's absolute Sovereignty we must not cross the threshold as some have in saying that if God doesn't want me to do something, He can stop me from doing it. This is true… but God often doesn't stop men from sinning. Nor can we say that God can't judge me for my actions if He Himself has orchestrated them to accomplish His purposes. Just ask Pharoah about that one. God permits, at very least, the perception of human agency and responsibility to ensure that He is never the first cause of someone sinning. They are. These men are responsible for their wicked deeds. So what must we do in response? We must trust the Lord. God has promised to never leave us, and to preserve us. But that doesn't mean He will not allow men to form and even execute wicked plans against us. Trusting God doesn't mean we'll never experience hardship… it means we trust that God even uses hardship for our good and His glory. Transition: [Slide 5(blank)] The plan has been made and the stage is set. It seems like no one will be able to stop them from killing Paul this time. It looks like Jesus' promise will end up being false. Of course, we know that cannot be true. So how does God frustrate the plans of the wicked? II.) God providentially guides the steps of all men, so we must trust the Lord. (16-35) a. [Slide 6] 16 - But when the son of Paul's sister heard of their ambush, he came and entered the barracks and reported it to Paul. i. Debate abounds on how exactly Paul's nephew heard about this plan. ii. In reality the options are almost endless. Luke doesn't think the details relevant to convey – only the fact that this young man heard of the plot. iii. We also get a rare look at the family of Paul here. iv. It is supposed by many that Paul's family rejected him after he became a Christian. Some even suggest that Paul was probably married and his wife was granted a divorce because of his conversion to Christ. This is all conjecture of course. v. But we do know at least that Paul's nephew, the son of his sister, is living in Jerusalem. If he has also turned his back on Paul it seems odd that he would take an interest in preserving Paul's life. vi. Perhaps catching wind of such a wicked plot turns his heart toward helping Paul. Perhaps he has converted to Christ. Much of this, again, is conjecture and not details that Luke chooses to share. vii. But what does his nephew do? viii. He does the righteous thing and informs Paul immediately. ix. Let this be a lesson to all, informing others of someone's plan to do evil is not narcing or snitching or in some way a betrayal to those doing wicked things. We must be on the side of righteousness not tribalism or even loyalty to other human beings. Let God's kingdom and righteousness be your only loyalty… even if it costs you friends or associates. b. [Slide 7] 17 - And Paul called one of the centurions to him and said, “Lead this young man to the commander, for he has something to report to him.” 18 - So he took him and led him to the commander and said, “Paul the prisoner called me to him and asked me to lead this young man to you since he has something to tell you.” 19 - And the commander took him by the hand and stepping aside, began to inquire of him privately, “What is it that you have to report to me?” 20 - And he said, “The Jews have agreed to ask you to bring Paul down tomorrow to the Sanhedrin, as though they were going to inquire somewhat more carefully about him. 21 - “So do not be persuaded by them, for more than forty of them—who have bound themselves under a curse not to eat or drink until they slay him—are lying in wait for him and now they are ready and waiting for the promise from you.” i. In this rather lengthy section of scripture, not a lot actually transpires in the narrative. ii. Luke establishes the chain of information for us in that Paul calls a centurion to take his young nephew to the Roman commander with an urgent piece of information. iii. Notice that Paul does not tell the centurion what the boy told him. iv. A couple reasons for this. 1. It would probably be more believable coming from the boy than from Paul 2. It keeps fewer people knowing about the plot and the fact that Paul now knows about it. v. So the centurion takes the boy to the commander. vi. The commander takes him to a private place, probably because he understood that the information he was to convey needed to be spoken privately. vii. After this Paul's nephew informs the Roman commander of the scheme of these 40 Jews and the Sanhedrin who have conspired together to kill Paul before he arrived. viii. Again, it is helpful for us to remember that Paul is a prisoner of the Roman Empire. He is probably not in some kind of formal custody. Perhaps simply protective custody. But custody nonetheless. ix. And for the commander to allow a prisoner to be accosted and killed under his watch would have made him look like he wasn't doing his job. x. Thus, we do not have this commander shaking off this information as if it matters little to him. xi. Quite the contrary. c. [Slide 8] 22 - So the commander let the young man go, instructing him, “Tell no one that you have notified me of these things.” 23 - And when he called to him two of the centurions, he said, “Make ready two hundred soldiers, seventy horsemen, and two hundred spearmen to proceed to Caesarea by the third hour of the night, 24 - and provide mounts to put Paul on and bring him safely to Felix the governor.” i. The commander first instructs the young man not to tell ANYONE that he told the commander this. ii. He doesn't want the fact that he knows about this to get back to the schemers. iii. Immediately the Roman Commander makes plans to get Paul out of Jerusalem. iv. If these Jews are going to start plotting and scheming while Rome protects him, then it seems best to get him out of Jerusalem. v. The Commander makes quite the plan to see Paul to safety. vi. He gathers 470 soldiers in total to escort Paul the 60 miles to Caesarea. He does so on the third hour of the night, which would be around 9pm. vii. He also makes sure that Paul rides on a mount and charges the whole company to bring Paul safely to Felix the governor of Judea. viii. But The commander also sends his own account to the governor. ix. In order for a proper transfer of a case and to submit a chain of evidence to that trial, this would probably be a normal practice within the Roman Empire's legal proceedings. x. As such, some questions have arisen as to how Luke could have gotten his hands on this letter. And the fact of the matter is that this letter would have followed Paul all the way to Rome as part of the case notes. And certainly, at some point Paul or Luke would have either heard it presented or gotten to see it himself. xi. Therefore, we don't need to doubt the authenticity of the letter, nor do we need to assume Luke is summarizing what the commander says. He probably heard it read several times, and potentially even was able to make a copy of it himself. d. [Slide 9] 25 - And he wrote a letter having this form: 26 - “Claudius Lysias, to the most excellent governor Felix, greetings. 27 - When this man was arrested by the Jews and was about to be slain by them, I came up to them with the troops and rescued him, having learned that he was a Roman. 28 - And wanting to ascertain the charge for which they were accusing him, I brought him down to their Sanhedrin; 29 - and I found him to be accused over questions about their Law, but under no accusation deserving death or imprisonment. 30 - And when I was informed that there would be a plot against the man, I sent him to you at once, also instructing his accusers to speak against him before you.” i. Here we learn the name of the Roman commander who has been God's agent of rescuing Paul through these various attempts on his life. ii. He identifies himself as Claudius Lysias. A Greek name, indicating to us as we've said before that this man was no doubt from a wealthy Greek family who purchased his future within the Roman Empire. Starting with his citizenship and even his position as a Commander in Judea. iii. He sends his account of all that has happened and his account is very interesting indeed. iv. The first point is a rather self-aggrandizing version of the story Luke told. 1. The Jews did not actually arrest Paul, they were simply beating him and the Lysias stopped it. 2. Furthermore, Lysias makes it seem like he rescued Paul because he had learned that Paul was a Roman citizen. With a little logic and reasoning we could easily determine that this would be quite difficult to do in the midst of the Jews arresting him and trying to kill him. 3. Again, this doesn't quite jive with Luke's version of the story. But we can see why Lysias would want to fudge a few details to get himself out of trouble. 4. To admit that he allowed a riot to break out on the temple mount only a couple flights of stairs from the Anatolian fortress would not be good for him to report to the higher ups. 5. We also see he does not mention how he ACTUALLY found out Paul was a Roman citizen, which was in the midst of binding and almost flogging him. 6. This is as much a political letter as it is a legal document. Lysias is portraying himself as a great hero to try to score some points with his superiors. v. The second point is fairly consistent with what Luke recorded. 1. Lysias did want to determine the real reason he was in trouble with the Jews. 2. Lysias' perspective on that Sanhedrin debacle was essentially that Paul had said something about their law that was a controversial issue. 3. His assessment, which is quite vindicating for us reading Luke's narrative, is that this is nothing deserving of death OR imprisonment. Lysias essentially says that Paul is innocent of anything Rome might find against him. 4. We might wonder why Paul will have to wait over two and a half years to be released from Roman custody if the Roman officer in charge thinks he should go free… but we will see that there is a lot more political intrigue left to go in the book of Acts. vi. The third point is consistent except it reveals not only that Lysias has saved Paul once again, but that he plans to tell Paul's accusers to go to Caesarea to state their case before Felix. vii. We'll talk more about Felix next week. He is a rather… interesting character to say the least. e. [Slide 10] 31 - So, the soldiers, according to their orders, took Paul and brought him by night to Antipatris. 32 - But the next day, leaving the horsemen to go on with him, they returned to the barracks. 33 - When these had come to Caesarea and delivered the letter to the governor, they also presented Paul to him. i. So, we see that the soldiers followed Lysias' orders and took Paul by night to Antipatris, which was a military fort about 37 miles from Jerusalem. ii. Travelers from Caesarea and Jerusalem would often stop at this place for rest and provisions. iii. Traveling this far in one night, over half the journey to Caesarea, means they were BOOKIN. iv. Given the conditioning of a Roman soldier and the fact that they would travel a road which would be relatively unpopulated at night, it seems that they could cover the 37 miles in around 4-6 hours. This would put their arrival time at around 2am the following morning. v. After resting the remainder of the night, the next day the soldiers traveling on foot went back to Jerusalem, because at this point the danger on Paul's life would have been mitigated. vi. Only the 70 horsemen rode on with Paul to Caesarea. The remaining 23 miles could easily have been covered in an hour or two on horseback depending on the pace they wanted to set. vii. After arriving they finished their orders by giving the letter to Felix and presenting Paul to him. viii. This means that probably about the time that Lysais informs the Sanhedrin that Paul has been transferred to Felix in Caesarea, is about the same time that Paul is presented to Felix in Caesarea. f. [Slide 11] 34 - And when he had read it, he asked from what province he was, and when he learned that he was from Cilicia, 35 - he said, “I will give you a hearing after your accusers arrive also,” giving orders for him to be kept in Herod's Praetorium. i. Felix seems to be a good governor, at least initially. ii. He reads the letter and asks Paul from which Roman province he hails from. iii. The reason for this question is probably two-fold 1. First, to determine if he had jurisdiction over this person. a. We see a similar thing happen to Jesus and Pilate. Pilate, finding out that Jesus was from Galilee, sent him to Herod. b. If Felix could offload this case to someone else… he probably would. c. But Paul being from Cilicia would mean that he would still be within Felix's jurisdiction since Syria and Judea would have fallen in the same authority at this time. 2. Second, probably to check on the status of Paul being a Roman Citizen. a. As we said before, Roman records would be kept of citizenship, primarily in the cities or provincial capitals of your birthplace. b. No doubt Felix desires to make certain that Paul was indeed a Roman citizen. iv. Having heard that Paul is within his province he assures him that he will hear his case after his accusers arrive. v. In the meantime, Paul is to be held, again – in protective custody, in Felix's own home. A sprawling estate called Herod's Praetorium. vi. He is still a prisoner of Rome, so he is kept in the Praetorium, but he is probably afforded many liberties, including having his traveling companions either stay there with him or able to visit often. vii. This is why as we go forward into chapter 24, the pronoun “we” will begin to be in use again. Informing us subtly that Luke has joined the apostle. g. [Slide 12] Summary of the Point: In the last point we saw that God allows men to make evil plans. But in this point we see that God not only allows men to plan their wicked deeds… He even orchestrates and uses these wicked deeds to get His apostle one step closer to Rome. In this we see Proverbs 16:9 come screaming through. Men make their plans but the Lord guides their steps. These wicked Jews inadvertently forced the Roman commander to move Paul out of Jerusalem where he would eventually be moved to Rome, as the Lord Jesus said he would. By their wicked scheme, the Lord ushered His apostle to where He wanted him to go. In this the application is the same. We must trust the Lord. The role of many prophets in the Old Testament was to call the current Israelites to remember what God had done for them in the past so they could trust Him for their future. Occasionally our Lord recalls to us things we have experienced in our lives and traces His fingerprints on those events to show us how He has guided us to the exact spot we are in. Can I submit to you that in those cases, God provides merely an example of what He ALWAYS DOES! Meaning that even when we cannot see His hand guiding the events of our life to His design for us – that doesn't make it any less true. Thus we must trust the Lord! For all our ways are known to Him for He has planned them from before the foundation of the world. Conclusion: So, CBC, what have we learned today and how then shall we live? What are some basic applications for faith and practice we get from this text? Basics of Faith and Practice: [Slide 13] Once again, we are confronted with the paradoxical truths that mankind operates with free agency and responsibility for his actions, but God is in absolute and sovereign control over all things in His creation, including the decisions and choices of men. While we may be tempted to steal from one of these truths to help the other, this truth has long been summarized in Proverbs 16:9 and is on display in our text this morning. Man makes his plans but the Lord guides His steps. Mankind has free agency and responsibility to choose his path according to what has been revealed to him. But as the saying goes, you don't know what you don't know. God's eternal decreed will is hidden and therefore, He who has ordained every day has also orchestrated every event to accomplish the counsel of His will. In the text today we see God allow and orchestrate the wicked schemes of men to move His apostle toward Rome. So what is our response? What is our responsibility and our agency? It is to trust the Lord, that He is good, and that all things work together for good for those who love God and are called according to His purpose. What are some specific expressions of these rules for faith and practice? 1.) [Slide 14] 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 orchestrates even wicked schemes and political power grabs to accomplish His perfect will. a. Again, I'll try not to spend too much time on this, since this seems to be a point that Luke will beat into our heads for the remainder of the book of Acts. b. But still, it is worth noting, that not only sins of passion but even premeditated sins, sown in secret, to do terrible things, are orchestrated by God to accomplish His purposes. c. Even self-serving political opportunists, like Claudius Lysias who clearly just wants to climb the ladder of power, even this is orchestrated by the Lord to accomplish His will. d. Everything in this text serves to get Paul to Rome safely. Even the selfishness of Lysias and even the bloodthirstiness of the Jews. e. If God can work even these things to accomplish His will, do you think He can't do the same in your life? f. Have you ever had 40 men devise a plot to kill you? Have you ever had political opportunists use you as a bargaining chip for personal profit? Ok… don't answer that.

Weekly Rosary, recorded live, including your thoughts and intentions.Luminous Mysteries:1. Baptism of Christ in the Jordan (Mat 3:16-17)2. Wedding Feast at Cana (Jn 2:1-5)3. Jesus' Proclamation of the Coming of the Kingdom of God (Mar 1:15)4. Transfiguration (Mat 17:1-2)5. Institution of the Eucharist (Mat 26:26)https://www.RosaryGarden.net/episodes/255

198 198 - The Great Wedding Feast 5-25-25 by Mike Hurtgen

In this sermon on Revelation 19:1–10, Pastor Mark Groen walks us through a powerful scene of heavenly rejoicing. Instead of mourning the end of the Old Covenant, heaven celebrates the fulfillment of God's promises in Christ. The imagery of a wedding—not a funeral—takes center stage as the redeemed gather for the marriage supper of the Lamb. This message reminds us that we've been invited, we've been clothed, and now we're called to live each day in grateful, joyful worship of Christ alone.

Harsh, terrifying events. But the Lamb emerges victorious. And leads His Bride to the Wedding Feast. Last of this little 3-part series on the Apocalypse.

In this message we talk about this POSSIBLE FINAL WARNING from the Father about the VERY CLOSE RAPTURE and the TRIBULATION. He had me review some of my podcasts message about possible necessities to go in the RAPTURE and AVOID the TRIBULATION! We can't just assume that what beliefs that we hold onto are from the Father. The RAPTURE and possible eternal life with the FATHER could be at stake. RAPTURE SEASON?, WEDDING FEAST of the LAMB, mark of the beast, Antichrist, Great Tribulation, Last days prophecy, End time prophecy, feast days, pagan holidays in Christianity, Don't fear, miracles, healing, deliverance, real trinity.

In this message, Pastor Candace Pringle explores The Wedding Feast parable found in Matthew 22."The Kingdom of Heaven is like..." is a FVChurch Spring 2025 sermon series exploring the meaning of Jesus' parables about the Kingdom. Find sermon notes, discussion questions, and more, at: https://fv.church/media-blog-2025/2025/5/11/the-kingdom-of-heaven-is-like

Listen to our AI Podcasters go through the sermon from Sunday and offer up some helpful analysis and insight into the sermon.This week's study of John 2 explores the theme of purification and cleansing through two seemingly different events: the wedding at Cana and the clearing of the temple. It argues that while humans understand the need for physical cleanliness, there is also a deep need for spiritual cleansing of the heart and mind. Jesus's actions, such as transforming water into wine and confronting temple corruption, are presented as demonstrating His mission to bring a new, profound kind of spiritual purification that goes beyond mere outward rituals. This cleansing is seen as a process that transforms believers and allows them to serve God more fully, ultimately leading to a deeper relationship with Him and a greater capacity to love others.

Think Revelation is just end-times chaos? Discover the love story behind the symbols and the promise we're all invited into.Morning Offering, May 18, 2025Every morning, join Father Brad as he begins the day with prayer and reflection. In a few short minutes, Father Brad guides you in prayer, shares a brief reflection grounding your day in the Church's rhythm of feast days and liturgy, and provides you with the encouragement necessary to go forward with peace and strength. Disclaimer: The ads shown before, during, or after this video have no affiliation with Morning Offering and are controlled by YouTubeLet us do as the saints urge and begin our days in prayer together so as a community of believers we may join the Psalmist in saying, “In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly.” (Psalm 5:3-4)________________

Join us each Sunday morning at 11am and Sunday evening at 6pm (GMT).

Click here for the DRB Daily Sign Up form! TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: 2 Sam 10; 1 Chron 20; Ps 20; Matt 22 Click HERE to give! Get Free App Here! One Year Bible Podcast: Join Hunter and Heather Barnes on 'The Daily Radio Bible' for a daily 20-minute spiritual journey. Engage with scripture readings, heartfelt devotionals, and collective prayers that draw you into the heart of God's love. Embark on this year-long voyage through the Bible, and let each day's passage uplift and inspire you. TODAY'S EPISODE: Welcome to the Daily Radio Bible! In today's episode, host Hunter guides us through day 125 of our journey through the Bible, reading from 2 Samuel 10, 1 Chronicles 20, Psalm 20, and Matthew 22. We'll witness King David's encounters with loyalty and betrayal, victory in battle, and the rich prayers of Psalm 20. Then, we turn to Jesus' parables and his challenging conversations with the Pharisees about the greatest commandments and the true meaning of knowing God's power. Hunter's reflection reminds us that real understanding of Scripture comes from seeing it through Jesus—knowing not only the words, but the transforming power of his resurrection life and love for everyone. You'll hear prayers for peace, purpose, and gratitude, and be reassured with the simple but powerful truth: you are loved. Settle in for a thoughtful and encouraging time in God's Word together! TODAY'S DEVOTION: They set a trap, but the trap they set sprung on them. They came to trap Jesus with their questions, but their questions merely revealed that they didn't understand the scriptures or the power of God. That's what Jesus told them. "Your mistake is that you don't know the Scriptures, and you don't know the power of God." They were badly mistaken, because to know the Scriptures and to know the power of God is to know Jesus and the power of his resurrection. It's possible to learn all about the Bible—even to have the whole thing memorized—but if you aren't looking at the Scriptures through the person of Jesus, you will be badly mistaken too. You can be very religious, very pious, and still not have the power to love God or to love others. That power is found only in Jesus. God offers us these two things: knowledge and insight into the Scriptures, and power to live a new quality of life. We don't need to pose or pretend any longer, because now we have new life. When we look at the Bible through the lens of Jesus, we realize we aren't coming to God to interrogate him, to try and outsmart him. Instead, we discover that God has already caught us up into his life and his love. Even before we knew it, we were loved by God; while we were still sinners, he gave himself for us. The parable in today's reading states this plainly: good and bad alike are welcomed into the banquet of God. That is the nature of God's invitation—open, generous, and radically inclusive. When we view the Scriptures through Jesus, we see what God has done for the whole world, and that we are all included. And so, that's why we remind ourselves of this every day on this podcast: you are loved. No ifs, ands, or buts. That's just the way it is—because that's who God is. That's a prayer I have for my own heart today—that I will know this well, know God, know his Scriptures, and know his power. That's my prayer for my family, for my wife, my daughters, my son. And that's a prayer I have for you. May it be so. TODAY'S PRAYERS: Lord God Almighty and everlasting father you have brought us in safety to this new day preserve us with your Mighty power that we might not fall into sin or be overcome by adversity. And in all we do, direct us to the fulfilling of your purpose  through Jesus Christ Our Lord amen.   Oh God you have made of one blood all the peoples of the earth and sent your blessed son to preach peace to those who are far and those who are near. Grant that people everywhere may seek after you, and find you. Bring the nations into your fold, pour out your Spirit on all flesh, and hasten the coming of your kingdom through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.   And now Lord,  make me an instrument of your peace.  Where there is hatred let me sow love. Where there is injury, pardon.  Where there is doubt, faith. Where there is despair, hope.  Where there is darkness, light.  And where there is sadness,  Joy.  Oh Lord grant that I might not seek to be consoled as to console. To be understood as to understand, to be loved as to love.  For it is in the giving that we receive, in the pardoning that we are pardoned, it is in the dying that we are born unto eternal life.  Amen And now as our Lord has taught us we are bold to pray... Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our tresspasses as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not unto temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the Kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. Loving God, we give you thanks for restoring us in your image. And nourishing us with spiritual food, now send us forth as forgiven people, healed and renewed, that we may proclaim your love to the world, and continue in the risen life of Christ.  Amen.  OUR WEBSITE: www.dailyradiobible.com We are reading through the New Living Translation.   Leave us a voicemail HERE: https://www.speakpipe.com/dailyradiobible Subscribe to us at YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Dailyradiobible/featured OTHER PODCASTS: Listen with Apple Podcast DAILY BIBLE FOR KIDS DAILY PSALMS DAILY PROVERBS DAILY LECTIONARY DAILY CHRONOLOGICAL  

In this special May episode of the Growing Hearts Podcast, Ponch Sahagun is joined by mum, mentor, and Tangara alumni Tamara El-Rahi for a heartfelt conversation on motherhood. From the unexpected shifts that come with becoming a mum, to the quiet strength and inspiration we can draw from Our Lady, this episode dives deep into the emotional, spiritual, and practical realities of raising children today. Honest, funny, and moving—this conversation is an uplifting companion for mothers navigating the highs and lows of daily life. Video Mentioned: Watch the video about the Wedding Feast at Cana referenced in this episode. Event: A MOTHER'S HEART - A Day of Reflection for Women Join the Conversation  We'd love to hear how motherhood has changed you, what role your faith plays in your daily parenting, or what part of this episode resonated most. 

Based upon the Parable of the Wedding Feast in Matthew 22, Jesus is sending His church to go and reach people who are hesitant to come. The goal of this workshop is to explore and imagine what it's going to take to reach those who are often marginalized or overlooked even by the church. We will take a look at effective & creative strategies to reach everyone with the gospel.     Al Yanno Church Multiplication Director, Ohio Church Multiplication Network

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Revelation 19 is a chapter of victory, celebration, and divine justice! In this episode of Rooted Together, we witness the Marriage Supper of the Lamb, heaven's triumphant praise, and Jesus Christ's glorious return as the King of Kings. This chapter marks the end of evil's reign and the beginning of Christ's rule on earth.

In this Palm Sunday episode, Jon unpacks the seriousness of the Gospel—it's not a side hustle, it's a matter of life or death. Through the Parable of the Wedding Feast and Jesus' restoration of Peter, we're reminded that the invitation to the Kingdom is open, but it comes with a call to transformation. This episode will challenge you to examine your love for Jesus and step boldly into the mission He's placed before us.

In this Palm Sunday episode, Jon unpacks the seriousness of the Gospel—it's not a side hustle, it's a matter of life or death. Through the Parable of the Wedding Feast and Jesus' restoration of Peter, we're reminded that the invitation to the Kingdom is open, but it comes with a call to transformation. This episode will challenge you to examine your love for Jesus and step boldly into the mission He's placed before us.

Welcome to the TFC Biblecast! Start your day off right and join us as we take the next 10 minutes to dive into God's word. Today's verses are from Matthew 22:1-22. If we can pray for you, email us at biblecast@tfc.org.

You are worth celebrating and God rejoices over you. Sr. Mary Grace, Sr. Ann Immaculée, and Sr. Marie Veritas reflect on the goodness of celebration and explain how leisure and celebration are intricately connected. Learn about practical ways to incorporate celebration into your life, the joy of affirming each other's existence, and how every act of celebration deepens our relationship with God and others. Snippet from the Show _Each act of celebration offers a glimpse of the great celebration of the Wedding Feast of the Lamb in heaven that awaits us. _ This season of Let Love is produced in collaboration with Ascension. If you'd like to receive our weekly show notes, as well as occasional updates from the Sisters of Life, text LETLOVE (one word) to 33777 to be added to our email list.

The whole gang is back! Join us as we dive deeper into the sermon from this past Sunday

In Matthew 22:1-14 we see that entrance into God's Kingdom is not earned, but requires responding to Jesus' invitation and being clothed in His righteousness.

You can't earn your seat at the table—and you don't have to. In the parable of the wedding feast, Jesus shows us a Kingdom where grace is the invitation, and Christ is the only covering that counts. This message reminds us: God doesn't love us because we've arrived—He loves us while we're still on the way. Our God is different. He pursues. He forgives. He calls. Now it's our turn to go and invite others in.

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That simple table in Galilee becomes, for the redeemed Christian imagination, a symbol of the future Wedding Feast of the Lamb.Monday • 3/10/2025 •Week of 1 Lent This morning's Scriptures are: Psalm 41; Psalm 52; Deuteronomy 8:11–20; Hebrews 2:11–18; John 2:1–12 This morning's Canticles are: following the OT reading, Canticle 9 (“The First Song of Isaiah,” Isaiah 12:2–6, BCP, p. 86); following the Epistle reading, Canticle 19 (“The Song of the Redeemed,” Revelation 15:3–4, BCP, p. 94)

Pastor Jeff Watts teaching on Luke 14:7-11.

[audio mp3="https://newccc.org/wp-content/uploads/sermons/2025/02/2025-02-23-The-Wedding-Feast.mp3"][/audio]

Morning:Second Day Morning: God Over All: https://banneroftruth.org/us/devotional/second-day-morning-god-over-all/Glorifying God, Thomas Watson, February 10Genesis 43: https://read.lsbible.org/?q=Genesis+43Mark 13: https://read.lsbible.org/?q=Mark+13Job 9: https://read.lsbible.org/?q=Job+9Romans 13: https://read.lsbible.org/?q=Romans+13The Life Look (96)EveningVictory (98)Spurgeon's Morning and Evening, February 10, Evening: https://www.biblegateway.com/devotionals/morning-and-evening/2025/02/10Message: The Parable Of The Wedding Feast pt2, Matthew 22:8-14Second Day Evening: Bounty: https://banneroftruth.org/us/devotional/second-day-evening-bounty/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=1Legacy Standard Bible: https://316publishing.com/Glorifying God, Thomas Watson: https://www.amazon.com/Glorifying-God-Inspirational-Messages-Thomas/dp/140418712X/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.RxmikVPx1TbCsaSCjkzxXvQu3AKtIrHMzUnVuUojQXDf94C0nKibszGVgpGBwttw2fMNOjz4KCLQtgLkdNcXCQ.m9etrS0_7bNsGcyvw3NtwysBMrVzvuUG8XBRpIRXH7E&qid=1708794474&sr=8-1M'Cheyne Bible Reading Plan: https://www.mcheyne.info/mcheyne-reading-plan/Vail Valley Baptist Church GiveSendGo Campaign Link: https://www.givesendgo.com/vvbc-az-school

Morning:Third Day Morning: God Creator and Controller: https://banneroftruth.org/us/devotional/third-day-morning-god-creator-and-controller/Glorifying God, Thomas Watson, February 4Genesis 37: https://read.lsbible.org/?q=Genesis+37Mark 7: https://read.lsbible.org/?q=Mark+7Job 3: https://read.lsbible.org/?q=Job+3Romans 7: https://read.lsbible.org/?q=Romans+7Assurance (92)Evening:A Convert's First Prayer (94)Spurgeon's Morning and Evening, February 4, Evening: https://www.biblegateway.com/devotionals/morning-and-evening/2025/02/04Message: The Parable Of The Wedding Feast, pt 1, Matthew 22:1-7, Wayne FloydThird Day Evening: Before Sleep: https://banneroftruth.org/us/devotional/third-day-evening-before-sleep/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=1Legacy Standard Bible: https://316publishing.com/Glorifying God, Thomas Watson: https://www.amazon.com/Glorifying-God-Inspirational-Messages-Thomas/dp/140418712X/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.RxmikVPx1TbCsaSCjkzxXvQu3AKtIrHMzUnVuUojQXDf94C0nKibszGVgpGBwttw2fMNOjz4KCLQtgLkdNcXCQ.m9etrS0_7bNsGcyvw3NtwysBMrVzvuUG8XBRpIRXH7E&qid=1708794474&sr=8-1M'Cheyne Bible Reading Plan: https://www.mcheyne.info/mcheyne-reading-plan/Vail Valley Baptist Church GiveSendGo Campaign Link: https://www.givesendgo.com/vvbc-az-school

According to Luke 20:20, the chief priests sent spies who pretended to righteous to Jesus to catch him at his words.  As a consequence of the hypocrisy of the religious leaders and to reveal the age to come, Jesus tells the Parable of the Wedding Feast. The parable reveals the ignorance and judgment of the religious leaders, the age to come, and the wedding supper of the lamb.  Matthew 22:1-14Revelation 19:7-9Revelation 21:1-2Romans 13:14Ephesians 5:24-252 Corinthians 11:2www.messagetokings.com

Which are you wearing? Part 2 of the Parable of the Wedding Feast. Matthew 22:11-14. AmenPodcast.com

Which are you wearing? Part 2 of the Parable of the Wedding Feast. Matthew 22:11-14.AmenPodcast.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amenpodcast.substack.com

When we are tempted to be overcome by the terror of the last days, may we remember the faith of past prophets—and of God—in us. Click here to see the speech page.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From a house church in Kauai, Hawaii, Pastor Alex Wilson unpacks 1 Corinthians 1:26 and the powerful parable of the Wedding Feast. Through engaging storytelling and biblical insight, he explores what it means to truly consider our calling as Christians. This thought-provoking message challenges us to examine our spiritual pride, remember where we came from, and embrace the transformative invitation God extends to all of us. Whether you're a long-time believer or simply curious about faith, this sermon offers fresh perspective on humility, human dignity, and our relationship with God. Part of an ongoing series through Corinthians.amenpodcast.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amenpodcast.substack.com

From a house church in Kauai, Hawaii, Pastor Alex Wilson unpacks 1 Corinthians 1:26 and the powerful parable of the Wedding Feast. Through engaging storytelling and biblical insight, he explores what it means to truly consider our calling as Christians. This thought-provoking message challenges us to examine our spiritual pride, remember where we came from, and embrace the transformative invitation God extends to all of us. Whether you're a long-time believer or simply curious about faith, this sermon offers fresh perspective on humility, human dignity, and our relationship with God. Part of an ongoing series through Corinthians. amenpodcast.com

Readings for the Second Sunday in Ordinary Time - Isaiah 62:1-5; John 2:1-11As a Church, we step out of the Privileged Time of Advent and Christmas, and begin this short season of Ordinary Time between now and March 5, when we begin Lent on Ash Wednesday. And so in this Year C where we hear from Luke's Gospel, what do we hear today? Out of the Gospel of John, of course. Yeah, I don't get it either! But it's a good one and worth hearing - The Wedding Feast at Cana. Today we talk about hope and despair, light and darkness, life and death. In a word, we talk about the paschal mystery. It's the pattern all around us.Special thanks to Bridget Zenk for her composition and performing of our intake and outtake music. And thank you to you for continuing to listen, share and rate this podcast. I'm amazed at the people and places that have encountered it. Thank you. Have a question or a comment? I can be reached at pdjoezenk@gmail.com

Sunday Morning Expositional Message

Patrick talks about the gifts of the spirit in regards to 1 Corinthians 12 and also the importance of praying for everybody, including those who’ve done harm in the world. Bridget asks if it’s okay to go to a birthday party on a Sunday (3:04) Lane wants to know the connection between 1 Corinthians 12 about the Gifts of the Holy Spirit and the Wedding Feast of Cana (4:38) Patrick goes on a deep dive on the spiritual gifts mentioned in 1 Corinthians 12 including talking about the gift of tongues (10:12) Mary Lou asks What is the difference between legalism vs telling someone the truth about the faith and morality and being rigid (14:12) Gianni-Why should we pray for Cecille Richards who was a bad person? There are plenty of good people to pray for? (22:31) Albert-If gifts come from the Lord, are they blessed? (29:23) Patricio-5 yo granddaughter is asking me how do you know God exists? (37:25) Bolek Many came dressed in sandals and short to wedding mass. what do you think of this? (42:44) Matt-John 17:21- Jesus prays we will all be one - What does it mean? is that still to come? (46:38) Resources: Pope St. John Paul II’s Apostolic Letter on the importance of the Sabbath: https://www.vatican.va/content/john-paul-ii/en/apost_letters/1998/documents/hf_jp-ii_apl_05071998_dies-domini.html

In this sermon, Pastor Michelle discusses Jesus's first miracle at the wedding in Cana. She discusses how in the prophetic tradition of transforming the ordinary, Jesus is continually working in our lives to make the ordinary holy.

Episode 113: Year C – 2nd Sunday of Ordinary Time In today's episode, we focus on one detail found in the Gospel reading, taken from John 2:1-12, which is the Wedding Feast at Cana. The related apologetical topic is Mary's sinlessness and her role as the New Eve. Readings: Click Here Looking for Sunday Catholic Word Merchandise? Look no further! Click Here Hey everyone, Welcome to The Sunday Catholic Word, a podcast where we reflect on the upcoming Sunday Mass readings and pick out the details that are rel…

Join Katie on pilgrimage in Rome & Assisi for the Jubilee: kptz.io/rome / / / In this episode, we explore the Wedding Feast at Cana, where Jesus performs His first public miracle—turning water into wine. We'll uncover the Old Testament echoes in this moment, the significance of Christ as the divine Bridegroom, and Mary's pivotal role in the unfolding of His mission. How does this event foreshadow the New Covenant, and what does it reveal about God's abundant grace? Tune in to find out! (Mass Readings for Jan 19, 2025)