Podcast appearances and mentions of king herod

Aswe study Luke 23, a good way to recall the events of this chapter is to rememberthat Jesus had seven encounters or conversations with at least seven people orgroups. There was Pilate (vv. 1-25); King Herod (vv. 7-12); Simon the Cyrenian(v. 26); the Jerusalem women (vv. 27-31); the two criminals (vv. 32-43); HisFather (vv.44-49); and Joseph of Arimathea. Whenwe arrive at Luke 23:27-31 Jesus has already gone through terrible beatings andsuffering. At this point, on the way to Golgotha, He is not able to carry Hiscross and Simon of Cyrene is carrying it for Him.  It is now that He has a word for the women ofJerusalem.  Lukeinforms us that “a great multitude of the people followed Him” (v. 27). Publicexecutions drew crowds of spectators, and one involving Jesus would especiallyattract attention. Add to this the fact that Jerusalem was crowded withpilgrims, possibly over a million people could have been in the city at thetime of Passover, so it is not difficult to believe that a "greatmultitude" was following the condemned Man to Calvary. Inthat crowd was a group of women who openly wept and lamented as theysympathized with Jesus and contemplated the terrible spiritual condition oftheir nation. It has been pointed out by Bible commentators, that as far as theGospel records are concerned, no woman was ever an enemy of Jesus. Nor wasJesus ever the enemy of womankind. His example, His teachings, and most of all,His redemption have done much to dignify and elevate women.  Ifyou remember, the news of His birth was shared with a Jewish maiden, His deathwas witnessed by grieving women, and the good news of His resurrection wasannounced first to a woman who had been demon-possessed. Jesusappreciated their sympathy and used it to teach them and us an important lesson(vv. 28-31). While they were weeping over the injustice of one man's death, Jesuswas looking ahead and grieving over the terrible destruction of the entirenation, a judgment that was wholly justified. Jesus had told His disciplesabout this judgment in Luke 19:41-44: “Now as He drew near, He saw the cityand wept over it, saying, "If you had known, even you, especially in thisyour day, the things that make for your peace! But now they are hidden fromyour eyes. For days will come upon you when your enemies will build anembankment around you, surround you and close you in on every side, and levelyou, and your children within you, to the ground; and they will not leave inyou one stone upon another, because you did not know the time of yourvisitation."  Jesuslooking ahead, even on His way to the cross, knew it would be the women andchildren who would suffer the most, a fact supported by history. Just fortyyears later in 70AD, when Titus and the Romans army surrounded Jerusalem, they attemptedto starve the Jews into submission. It has been noted by historians that hungrymen, defending their city, took food from their suffering wives and childrenand even killed and ate their own flesh and blood to keep enough strength tofight. It was a terrible terrible time of judgment that Jesus was speaking of. Thenation of Israel was like a "green tree" during the years when Jesuswas on earth. It was a time of blessing and opportunity, and it should havebeen a time of fruitfulness. But the nation rejected Him and became like a"dry tree," fit only for the fire. Jesus often would have gatheredHis people together, but they would not (Matthew 23:37-39). In condemning Him,they only condemned themselves. Wemight paraphrase His words: "If the Roman authorities do this to One whois innocent, what will they do to you who are guilty? When the day of judgmentarrives, can there be any escape for you?" Myfriend, Jesus has also warned us of another day of judgment coming. Will you beprepared? Godbless!

Welcometo Pastor's Chat today. We're continuing to look at Luke 23, and today we'refocusing on verses 6-12. Jesus had three unfair trials before the Jews; beforeAnnas, the father-in-law of the high priest Caiaphas, and also Caiaphas at hishouse, and then before the Sanhedrin. Now, in the early morning hours betweensix and nine o'clock on Friday morning, Jesus is taken before Pilate. Pilatehas his first trial with Jesus and finds no fault in Him after questioning Himpersonally in the praetorium.  WhenPilate hears that Jesus is from the region of Galilee, he knows that's Herod,King Herod's jurisdiction. King Herod Antipas, who murdered John the Baptist,had longed to see Jesus because he had heard of the miracles Jesus had done andwanted to see Him perform a miracle, like a trick. When Pilate heard ofGalilee, he asked if the Man were a Galilean. I love the scripture here becauseit capitalizes the "M" in the Man Christ Jesus. Yes, there was no manlike this Man, the Man Christ Jesus.  Assoon as Pilate knew that He belonged to Herod's jurisdiction, he sent Him toHerod, who was also in Jerusalem at the time. When Herod saw Jesus, he wasexceedingly glad, for he had desired for a long time to see Him, because he hadheard many things about Him, and he hoped to see some miracle done by Him. Thenhe questioned Him with many words, but He answered him nothing.  Thechief priests and scribes stood and vehemently accused Him. You can imaginethis crowd of chief priests, scribes, and Sanhedrin following Jesus to whereHerod was in Jerusalem. I can imagine Herod waking up this morning, having hisbreakfast, and suddenly all this is going on. Here comes this crowd ofPharisees, chief priests, and Sanhedrin, bringing Jesus with them. Herod,with his men of war, treated Him with contempt, mocked Him, arrayed Him in agorgeous robe, and sent Him back to Pilate. That very day, Pilate and Herodbecame friends with each other, for previously they had been at enmity witheach other. Both Pilate and Herod had the opportunity to try Jesus. What'sinteresting is that Jesus was not truly on trial before Pilate and Herod;rather, Pilate and Herod were on trial before Jesus. Obviously, they failed thetest. They did not receive Jesus as the Christ. Neither did they find Himguilty, as Pilate later said that even Herod found no fault in Him (v. 15).  Eventhough Herod mistreated Jesus and had his men mock Him as a the King of the Jews,Jesus the Man did not respond to them. I believe they did this because Herodand his crowd hated the religious hypocrites, the Pharisees. Even the lostworld doesn't like religious hypocrites. They mocked Jesus because He wassupposedly the King of the Jews, putting a beautiful robe on Him to make Himlook like a king.That day two men became friends because they had a commonenemy, the Jews, and a common purpose: Jesus needed to be condemned, and theJews wanted Him condemned and it was an opportunity to show distain for thereligious hypocrites.  Today,what stands out to me the most is that Jesus is the Man, the Christ Man, theGod Man. Oh, my friend, He's the Man who took on flesh so that through death Hecould become our sin on an old rugged cross. Romans 8:3 tells us: “For whatthe law could not do in that it was weak through the flesh, God did by sendingHis own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, on account of sin: He condemnedsin in the flesh.” I love how Hebrews 2:14 puts it: “Inasmuch then asthe children have partaken of flesh and blood, He Himself likewise shared inthe same, that through death He might destroy him who had the power of death,that is, the devil”.  Iinvite you today to trust Jesus, to put your hope in this Man. There's no manlike this Man, the Man Christ Jesus. “For there is one God and one Mediatorbetween God and men, the Man Christ Jesus, who gave Himself a ransom for all,to be testified in due time” (1 Timothy 2:5-6). Godbless!

Today, I'm thrilled to announce my episode with Broadway veteran Ann Morrison, who is about to take over the lead role on the tour of KIMBERLY AKIMBO. Tune in to hear some of the stories of her legendary career, including how Stephen Sondheim wrote “Now You Know” for her, her favorite revival of MERILY WE ROLL ALONG, modeling Mary Flynn after Mary Rodgers, how Hal Prince cast her in LOVEMUSIK, her international audition process for PEG, telling Mabel Normand's story in KEYSTONE, running a theater company with her ex-husband, what she brought to the role of King Herod in JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR, working with Jessica Stone to find her take on Kimberly Levaco, and so much more. Don't miss this inspiring conversation with one of Broadway's most unique talents.

Sermon: Courage to Do the Right Thing Series: God's Perfect Servant Speaker: Ptr. Jared Co Scripture: Mark 6:14-29 Moments that demand courage reveal the strength of our character, helping us to choose what's right even when it's hard. This Sunday, Ptr. Jared Co examines how King Herod fared as he wrestled with the decision to behead John the Baptist. Sermon Notes: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1BcqF7aDvUqZmbbdSBjcn6z2eK0iC6dEj/view?usp=drive_link On our website: https://cbcp.org/blog/2025/07/06/courage-to-do-the-right-thing/ Join a Life Group: https://cbcp.org/lifegroups Find an event: https://cbcp.org/events Learn how to give: https://cbcp.org/giving Website: https://cbcp.org Facebook: https://facebook.com/cbcponline YouTube: https://youtube.com/cbcponline Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/cbcponline Instagram: https://instagram.com/cbcponline

He is one of the most reviled and hated men in history. He was the king of the Holy Land during the time of Jesus and is best known for ordering the massacre in Bethlehem of all male children under 2 years old. His name? Herod the GreatBut Herod's cruel reputation has always hidden another side of one of the Bible's greatest villains. He was a prolific builder and architectural mastermind of breathtaking proportions. He built new cities, fortresses, palaces, harbours, aqueducts, theatres, and other public buildings. His most grandiose creation was the Jewish Temple in Jerusalem, which he wholly rebuilt. Herod built more and larger monuments than virtually anyone in ancient times, perhaps in all time.Herod the Great, also known as Herod 1, was the Roman-appointed Jewish king of Judea, who was referred to at the time as the Herodian Kingdom. He reigned for 33 years between 37 to 4 BC. Join Gary on a journey back through time as we follow the footsteps of Herod the Great and discover what made him tick, and what made him crazy, and in doing so we'll discover one of the simplest and most successful ways to find lasting inner-peace and happiness. 

Reading IActs 12:1-11In those days, King Herod laid hands upon some members of the Church to harm them.He had James, the brother of John, killed by the sword,and when he saw that this was pleasing to the Jewshe proceeded to arrest Peter also.–It was the feast of Unleavened Bread.–He had him taken into custody and put in prisonunder the guard of four squads of four soldiers each.He intended to bring him before the people after Passover.Peter thus was being kept in prison,but prayer by the Church was fervently being madeto God on his behalf.On the very night before Herod was to bring him to trial,Peter, secured by double chains,was sleeping between two soldiers,while outside the door guards kept watch on the prison.Suddenly the angel of the Lord stood by himand a light shone in the cell.He tapped Peter on the side and awakened him, saying,“Get up quickly.”The chains fell from his wrists.The angel said to him, “Put on your belt and your sandals.”He did so.Then he said to him, “Put on your cloak and follow me.”So he followed him out,not realizing that what was happening through the angel was real;he thought he was seeing a vision.They passed the first guard, then the second,and came to the iron gate leading out to the city,which opened for them by itself.They emerged and made their way down an alley,and suddenly the angel left him.Then Peter recovered his senses and said,            “Now I know for certain            that the Lord sent his angel            and rescued me from the hand of Herod            and from all that the Jewish people had been expecting.”Reading II2 Timothy 4:6-8, 17-18I, Paul, am already being poured out like a libation,and the time of my departure is at hand.I have competed well; I have finished the race;I have kept the faith.From now on the crown of righteousness awaits me,which the Lord, the just judge,will award to me on that day, and not only to me,but to all who have longed for his appearance.The Lord stood by me and gave me strength,so that through me the proclamation might be completedand all the Gentiles might hear it.And I was rescued from the lion's mouth.The Lord will rescue me from every evil threatand will bring me safe to his heavenly Kingdom.To him be glory forever and ever.  Amen.GospelMatthew 16:13-19When Jesus went into the region of Caesarea Philippihe asked his disciples,“Who do people say that the Son of Man is?”They replied, “Some say John the Baptist, others Elijah,still others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.”He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?”Simon Peter said in reply,“You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”Jesus said to him in reply, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah.For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my heavenly Father.And so I say to you, you are Peter,and upon this rock I will build my Church,and the gates of the netherworld shall not prevail against it.I will give you the keys to the Kingdom of heaven.Whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven;and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.”

When persecution strikes, the faith of the early believers is tested—will they stand firm as James is executed, and Peter faces impossible odds in Herod's prison?In this powerful episode, we witness the brutal persecution of James by King Herod and the miraculous escape of Peter from prison through divine intervention. As the early church faces trials, they are reminded that even in the face of death, God's hand of deliverance is ever-present.Today's Bible verse is Matthew 5:10, from the King James Version.Download the Pray.com app for more Christian content including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.Pray.com is the digital destination for faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Daily Dose of Hope June 24, 2025   Scripture - Matthew 16:13-28   Prayer:  Holy God, Thank you for this day and thank you for the ways you provide and care for us.  We rejoice in your powerful and mighty name.  As we read through the Scripture today and reflect on what it means for us, help us hear a new word from you.  Help us set aside the distractions of the day and really listen for your voice.  In Your Name, Amen.   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope Church daily Bible reading plan.  We are currently doing a deep dive into the Gospels and Acts.  Today, we are covering the second portion of Matthew 16.   Jesus has taken his disciples on a retreat of sorts, and they have traveled away from Judea, further north into Gentile territory.  Maybe it's to get away from the crowds, maybe it's so they can speak more freely.  Caesarea Philippi is pretty far north in Israel.  It was a quiet place at the headwaters of the Jordan River but also a place filled with idol worship and signs of Roman occupation everywhere.  And it's here that Jesus decides he is going to settle his identity with these men.  So he asks each of them, “Who do people say I am?”    Over the two years that the disciples had been with Jesus, people had all kinds of thoughts about who Jesus was.  Some thought he was the precursor to the Messiah, others (like King Herod) thought he was John the Baptist reincarnated, others thought he might be one of the prophets returned.  But Jesus presses them, “who do you say I am?”  Now, it doesn't matter what the others say – who is it you say I am?  That's really the question for all of us, isn't it.  It doesn't matter who others say Jesus is.  If I were to do a man on the street interview right now, I'm sure I'd get all kinds of answers to who is Jesus?  A teacher, a healer, a crazy person, Son of God, the Savior.  But it doesn't matter what others say, what matters is what you believe and what YOU say about Jesus.  And that's what Jesus is asking his disciples.  What do you say about me?  What are you willing to confess about me?  This was really a rubber meets the road question for them, as it is for us.  What are you willing to confess about me, to others, publicly?   Jesus asked all of them but it was Peter who spoke up.  And he says, “You are the Messiah, Son of the Living God.”  The word Messiah means anointed one or God's anointed.  And the term “Messiah” was the Hebrew word for God's anointed, the term “Christ” was the Greek word for it.  Messiah and Christ mean the same thing, different languages.  I know this might come as a surprise to some of us but Christ is not Jesus' last name.  It is a title.  And Peter is giving Jesus this title, you are the Messiah, the anointed one.   What's the big deal with being anointed?  In ancient Israel, when someone was given a position of authority, oil was poured on his head to signify his being set apart for God's service. I Samuel 10:1 is an example, Then Samuel took a flask of olive oil and poured it on Saul's head and kissed him, saying, "Has not the Lord anointed you ruler over his inheritance?  Kings, priests, and prophets were anointed in this way. Anointing was a symbolic act to indicate God's choosing.  Although the literal meaning of anointed refers to the application of oil, it can also refer to being chosen or set apart by God, even if oil is not literally used.  So, Peter is saying you are the anointed one, chosen, set apart by God, the Messiah.   But there is more to this.  Throughout the OT, there are many, many verses that point to the Messiah delivering the Hebrew people from captivity, from pagan kings.  The Jews expected the Messiah to deliver them from Roman occupation via military might.  That was the expectation.  The Christ, the Messiah is the one who God sent to deliver his people, to make things right for them – the one they had been waiting for hundreds of years.  So when Peter says this, you are the Messiah, he probably doesn't quite understand how Jesus is going to deliver them.  No one really got it that the Messiah would be the one to deliver people, not from the Roman occupiers, but from their own sin.    Peter says that Jesus is Messiah but then he says that Jesus is the Son of the living God.  Just to clarify something, in the OT, there are a number of men, particularly prophets, who are called a son of God.  That was not an uncommon title for a Godly man.  But that is not what Peter is saying, Peter says that Jesus is THE son of the living God.    Let's clarify something here because I think we can get confused - Jesus is not God's Son in the sense of a human father and a son. God did not get married and have a son. God did not mate with Mary and, together with her, produce a son. Jesus is God's Son in the sense that He is GOD in human form – John 1:1, In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.  Keep in mind, the term “Word” is referring to Jesus.  Jesus was there in the beginning.  Jesus was there with God in the beginning.  Jesus was there with God and Jesus is God.  Brain cramping yet?  Let's read v. 14, The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.  So, the “Word”, Jesus, became human and lived among us.  Of course, that is the Christmas story, Jesus became a human being, was born to a woman named Mary, who became pregnant through the power of the Holy Spirit.  When the angel comes to Mary in Luke and explains the situation, he tells her that this holy one you will give birth to will be called the Son of God.   This clearly separates Jesus from the prophets. He is not a son of God but the Son of the living God.  Jesus walks with a very distinct, specific authority.  I mean, look at his miracles.  He heals people with a word or touch.  He rebukes a storm and it listens to him.  He could read people's minds.  He raises Lazurus from the dead.  He doesn't argue with demons.  Think about it – when Jesus encounters a demon, they tremble.  Colossians 1, The son is the image of the invisible God…  He walks in a distinct, divine authority.  Because he is the Son of the living God – the second person of the Godhead.    So, Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of the Living God, and he is Lord.  I didn't count this myself, but I read that Jesus is referred to as Lord almost 300 times in the New Testament.  Lord was the most common title for Jesus in the early church.  Why is that significant?  When the Hebrew Bible, what we call the OT, was translated from Hebrew to Greek, the term Yahweh (which was the Hebrew word for God) was translated to Lord in the NT.  That means, to say that Jesus is Lord is to say that Jesus is God.  It is saying that Jesus is divine – he is God – and Caesar is NOT, a claim that was quite dangerous at the time.    To say that Jesus is Lord means that Jesus has claim over all things; he is King of Kings and Lord of Lords.  He is LORD over all things – over the cosmos, over the whole earth, over all nations and their leaders, he is Lord over Vladimir Putin, he is Lord over Donald Trump and Kamala Harris, he is Lord over all the celebrities in Hollywood, he is Lord over Florida and Brandon, he is Lord over each of us.    Now, here is where I'm going to get kind of personal.  At least I'm giving a warning.  What I've found working in ministry is that people like the idea of Jesus as Savior.  Yes, I've said yes to Jesus as my Savior so I'm going to heaven.  That feels good and it should.  But man, do people struggle with this concept that Jesus is Lord.  Because saying Jesus is Lord is one step further.  It's saying that he is Lord over everything and he is Lord over my family and me.  That means, I defer to him in every area of my life.  I trust him with everything.  That means, before I make a decision, I ask Jesus for his will.  It means I have given my job over to him, my children and grandchildren over to him; it means I have given the words I speak, my actions, my thoughts over to Jesus.  My finances belong to him.  That means that tithing isn't an issue because, well, it all belongs to Jesus anyway.  I have no claim on my life.  I belong to Jesus.    I struggled with this for years.  In a culture that tells us that its all about us, how hard WE work, the fruits of our labor, its OUR money, OUR children, OUR lives.  Maybe it sounds weird, but turning over my money to Lord Jesus wasn't that difficult.  I made a decision.  We are supposed to tithe so we are going to do it and I had been around people who tithed for a long time.  What was hard for me was giving my marriage to Jesus, giving my kids to Jesus.  I might have had a bit of a control issue.  And if you have a control issue – teenagers will humble you.  And it was in the midst of some real struggles that I just turned it all over to him.  They are your kids first, Lord.  They were never mine to begin with.  If I make it sounds easy, it isn't but it's life changing.  It's a shift in perspective that really brings a tremendous amount of peace.  Alright, that was pretty important, but so is the next portion of text.  Jesus is beginning to reveal to the disciples that he will die; he will be leaving them.  They aren't quite getting it.  And when they do get a hint of where he is going, Peter isn't happy.  And the Scripture says that Peter took Jesus aside and rebuked him.  Here is where we miss something significant in English.  In the Greek, this word rebuke is much stronger.  Peter is really laying into Jesus here, saying “This is not the way it's going to be.  You are supposed to be the messiah who saves us from the Romans. This is not what we signed up for.”  And Jesus' response to him is interesting.  Jesus rebukes Peter right back, same word in the Greek, and says, “Get behind me, Satan!”  He tells him that he is setting his mind on human things, not on the things of God.  This is one of those moments in Scripture that highlights the vast distance between us and God. Though Jesus is God with us (he was God in human form), we cannot tame him or make him over into our image. We would like a savior who is a winner, and one who makes us winners, but Jesus insists on identifying with the lowliest of losers. He will allow himself to be judged and condemned as a blasphemer by Jewish religious leaders. He will allow himself to be mocked, tortured, and executed as a criminal by the Romans. And that's not all. Jesus actually expects his disciples to follow him on this path of suffering and death.  After telling them that they don't understand the mind of God, he says this very hard thing, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. 25 For whoever wants to save their life[f] will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it.  We tend to think of taking up our cross as dealing with really annoying circumstances.  In Jesus' day, no one thought of beating one's cross as a persistent annoyance or burden. So bearing our cross does not mean we need to have patience with difficult neighbors or coworkers.  Furthermore, Jesus is not talking about the suffering that is part of living in a broken world, things like serious illnesses, broken relationships, and even natural disasters. That isn't what he is talking about.  Nor is he telling us to seek out suffering or martyrdom. We don't have to become monks and live in the desert.  Jesus did not go seeking suffering, although he ended up having to endure it for his mission.  To a person in the first century, the cross meant one thing and one thing only: death by crucifixion. And the Romans made the people who were about to be killed carry their own cross to the execution location.  It was humiliating and horribly painful and the condemned person had no choice but to submit. Bearing one's cross was and is a show of complete and utter submission. A call to bear one's cross as part of following Jesus, then, is a call to be as submitted to Christ as the condemned criminal was to his death.  When Jesus says this, he's claiming authority. Following Christ means disowning the self and giving allegiance to him instead. And it means giving him allegiance down to the very depths of our being.   Are you willing to surrender all to follow Jesus?  What needs to change in your life and thinking to be more consistent with the ways of Jesus Christ? Blessings, Pastor Vicki      

We continue our Reach sermon series, returning to the Book of Acts once again. Today we're looking at Acts 12 to consider the many different obstacles that come in the way of God's people. These obstacles didn't just happen in the 1st Century, but they continue to happen in the lives of believers today as we strive to advance the gospel. Together, we'll see how God's people can continue on the journey--in spite of these obstacles--with hope! Listen as Pastor Rob Bentz shares the latest message in our series, Opposition Can't Stop the Reach.

Have you ever watched something evil happen around you and wished you had done something to stop it? Well, that's the conviction of the Holy Spirit reminding you to call out and confront evil when you see it. Pastor Jeff reminds you today that John the Baptist didn't let fear of death stop him from calling out King Herod's evil actions, and that confrontation would cost John his life. But John knew that he was in God's hands, and he knew that death wasn't going to be the end!

Welcome to the Christmas series! The magi arrive at the palace of King Herod, looking for the King of the Jews. Herod welcomes them with false-humility, smiling through his gritted teeth. Something isn't right. Sign up for special devotionals at StoriesoftheMessiah.com. As we dive deeply into iconic Bible heroes' enthralling narratives, we find more than just stories of faith and miracles. We discover a recurrent theme, a spiritual undertone that connects each tale to the grandeur of the Gospel. They're not just standalone legends; they're threads in a divine tapestry, weaving a story that foreshadows Jesus Christ, the ultimate hero, the promised Messiah who brings light to the darkest corners of history. For more Bible stories download the Pray.com app.  To learn more about Rabbi Schneider visit https://discoveringthejewishjesus.com/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. Today's shout-out goes to Bobby McCalpine from Tahlequah, OK. Thank you for partnering with us through Project23. Your courage to stand for truth is helping others do the same. This one's for you. Our text today is Mark 6:14-29: King Herod heard of it, for Jesus' name had become known. Some said, “John the Baptist has been raised from the dead. That is why these miraculous powers are at work in him.” But others said, “He is Elijah.” And others said, “He is a prophet, like one of the prophets of old.” But when Herod heard of it, he said, “John, whom I beheaded, has been raised.” For it was Herod who had sent and seized John and bound him in prison for the sake of Herodias, his brother Philip's wife, because he had married her. For John had been saying to Herod, “It is not lawful for you to have your brother's wife.” And Herodias had a grudge against him and wanted to put him to death. But she could not, for Herod feared John, knowing that he was a righteous and holy man, and he kept him safe. When he heard him, he was greatly perplexed, and yet he heard him gladly. But an opportunity came when Herod on his birthday gave a banquet for his nobles and military commanders and the leading men of Galilee. For when Herodias's daughter came in and danced, she pleased Herod and his guests. And the king said to the girl, “Ask me for whatever you wish, and I will give it to you.” And he vowed to her, “Whatever you ask me, I will give you, up to half of my kingdom.” And she went out and said to her mother, “For what should I ask?” And she said, “The head of John the Baptist.” And she came in immediately with haste to the king and asked, saying, “I want you to give me at once the head of John the Baptist on a platter.” And the king was exceedingly sorry, but because of his oaths and his guests he did not want to break his word to her. And immediately the king sent an executioner with orders to bring John's head. He went and beheaded him in the prison and brought his head on a platter and gave it to the girl, and the girl gave it to her mother. When his disciples heard of it, they came and took his body and laid it in a tomb. — Mark 6:14-29 This story is disturbing. John the Baptist is executed, not for a crime, but for telling the truth. He called out King Herod's sin—and it cost him everything. But John didn't flinch. He didn't soften the truth. He didn't adjust the message to protect himself. He spoke with clarity, conviction, and courage directly about the king's lack of integrity. John wouldn't trade conviction for approval. Herod, on the other hand, did. He liked listening to John. He respected him. He knew John was holy. But Herod was more concerned about his image than his soul. So when the moment came—when the crowd was watching, and the pressure was on—Herod made the trade. Approval over conviction. Comfort over repentance. And John lost his life because of it. This isn't just ancient history. It's a modern temptation. Today, people still trade conviction for approval: —to protect a platform —to avoid awkward conversations —to keep a job —to hold on to relationships —to stay liked But when we soften the message of Jesus to preserve our status, we don't just lose the truth—we lose our witness. The Gospel isn't ours to edit. It's ours to exalt—with boldness and love. Jesus said, “Whoever is ashamed of me and of my words... the Son of Man will also be ashamed of him.” They are strong words. But central ones. When we trade conviction for approval, we stop pointing people to the only One who can actually save them so we can try to save ourselves. So here's the question: Where are you tempted to soften, silence, or sidestep the truth to protect yourself? And what would it look like to follow John's example instead? ASK THIS: Why did Herod respect John but refuse to repent? Where do you feel tempted to alter or mute God's truth? What fear is holding you back from bold obedience? What would it look like to love others enough to speak the truth—even when it's costly? DO THIS: Name one place in your life where approval is tempting you to dilute conviction. Ask Jesus for courage to stay faithful to His message—no edits, no compromises. PRAY THIS: Jesus, help me love people enough to tell them the truth. I don't want to trade conviction for approval. Give me boldness to speak what you've spoken—clearly and faithfully. Amen. PLAY THIS: "Build My Life" by Pat Barrett.

SHOW NOTES: How many roles does Jesus take on in this episode? He moves from teaching and story-telling to action. At the request of a leader of a synagogue, he heals her daughter. But, not before healing a woman whom he calls “my daughter” from a disease which has ostracized her from society for 12 years. He helps two blind me to see because of their faith. And he throws out another demon. But, opposition is beginning to build against his healing. The Pharisees think that he is throwing out demons by the power of Satan. And, when Jesus goes back to his home town of Nazareth, he is rejected and not believed. “Where did he get all this wisdom and power to perform such miracles.” He's just a carpenter and the son of Mary. Traveling around with a great crowd following, Jesus sees a massive work-load. So, he commissions his apostles to go – teach, heal, and throw out demons. He gives them specific instructions for their task ahead. Some of those instructions apply to us as well. Finally, we learn of the fate of John the Baptist at the hands of King Herod. SCRIPTURE REFERENCES: Mark 5:21-43 Matthew 9:27-38 Mark 6:1-6 Psalm 23:1 Isaiah 53:6 Matthew 10:1-11:1 Mark 6:14-33 FIND US ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JesusStoriesThePodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jesus_stories_the_podcast/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/JesusStoriesPod YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLgJ3Tf0R_aiF-uxG-G97ortxPZMFC7kPu SUPPORT US: We exist because you support our efforts with prayers and monies. Find out how to do that by visiting https://jesusstories.info/support-this-podcast TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: Subscribe to us on your podcast player. Then leave us a note about your thoughts on this podcast. Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

The rise and fall of King Herod Agrippa I illustrates God's opposition to human pride and the unstoppable nature of His Word. Despite persecution of the early church including the execution of James and imprisonment of Peter, God's sovereign justice prevailed when Herod accepted worship as a god and was struck down.• Background on the Herodian dynasty as puppet rulers installed by Rome• Herod the Great was the first in this dynasty, ruling through fear and brutal tactics• The Herods maintained power through brutal oppression despite public works projects• Herod Agrippa I persecuted the church by killing James and imprisoning Peter• God's dramatic judgment fell on Herod when he accepted divine worship• The Word of God continued to grow despite persecution• Four key lessons: the danger of power and wealth, God's opposition to pride, God's sovereign justice, and the unstoppable nature of God's WordIf you've never done so, tell God you're opening your heart to believe in Jesus as your Savior and receive the promise of eternal life in Him.Video available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YSPhIM2SAmk

Send us a textGood morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:Amazon - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle)Spiritbuilding.com - (premium quality paperback)Youtube Video Introducing the ContentFeel free to reach out with any questions: emersonk78@me.comActs 12 King Herod persecutes the church, killing the apostle James, the first apostle martyred for the cause of Christ. He also arrests Peter, planning to execute him after Passover. The church prays fervently to God for Peter's deliverance. An angel miraculously frees him from prison, guiding him past the guards. Initially thinking this is a vision, Peter soon realizes he is free and heads to a home where the disciples are gathered in prayer. Overjoyed yet astonished, they welcome him in. Furious over Peter's escape and unable to recapture him, Herod executes the guards. Later, Herod permits the people of the region to call him a god, and immediately an angel of the Lord strikes him dead! Yet “the word of the Lord continues to grow and to be multiplied.” This chapter begins and ends with King Herod. He strikes a blow against the church by killing James but is ultimately killed by God and rendered irrelevant. Explaining why God allowed James's death is difficult. However, it is humbling and important to recognize that God permitted this to fulfill His greater purpose of spreading the gospel. Furthermore, God placed limits on what Herod could do, freeing Peter before he could be killed. We must always trust that God is in control, even when evil men plan terrible acts. In the end, God spared Peter to continue His work and eliminated Herod. If God spares us today, we must use our lives to overcome evil with good and uplift God's people.  All-powerful God, teach us to trust in Your power over all things and all people. Help us understand that You allow circumstances we do not comprehend because Your ways are higher than ours. Moreover, open our hearts to recognize the significant provisions, blessings, and deliverance You often provide. We pray for humble, grateful hearts that use the gift of life to serve You. Encourage us to see that we are alive for the central purpose of spreading the message of Jesus and uplifting believers on their journey of faith. Please deliver us from evil people if it aligns with Your will.   Thought Questions: -       What helps you trust in God when bad things happen to good people? What are things you need to remember in such times? -       Peter immediately gathered with believers after his deliverance. Is it your natural inclination to do the same when God blesses you? -       Evil will not prevail, as seen in Herod's death. How does knowing that the war is won in Christ help you cope with evil in this world?

There's a famous optical illusion drawing that, depending on how a person perceives the image, shows an elderly woman or a young lady with her head turned away from us.You can see it here – and what's fascinating is while one person may see a young lady and another an older person, the image itself is unchanged – only our perception and interpretation of the image.We're going to be continuing our study in the Gospel of Matthew this Sunday, and we'll be reading about some very different reactions and responses to the news that the Messiah King had been born in Israel. It was perceived as either good or bad news, depending on what a person may have felt was at stake in the arrival of a new King.We'll be reading Matthew 2:1-23.The text introduces us to some characters that we'll have to try and get familiar with.We'll meet King Herod (or Herod the Great) who was the Roman puppet ruler over Israel at that time. We'll also meet the Magi, or Wise Men as our modern translations call them. They are apparently court astrologers who travel from the East because they observed astronomical phenomena that they interpreted as the portent of the arrival of an important King.We'll also hear from the religious scribes, the keepers of the Torah. All of these people react to the news of the birth of Messiah – and all of them react differently. What do the Magi state as their intentions? What does Herod say he wants to do compared with what he does? Who is this text portraying in a positive way, and who is negatively represented? What might we infer from that?We're going to pay attention the the tension and conflict that emerges as Jesus comes on the scene and consider what that tells us about the world we live in, as well as the condition of our own hearts.It will be both a challenge and an encouragement! Hope you can join us this Sunday at 10 AM!Click here for a pdf of the teaching slideshow.

Sunday, 25 May 2025   You will be brought before governors and kings for My sake, as a testimony to them and to the Gentiles. Matthew 10:18   “And also upon governors and kings, you will be brought because of Me for a testimony to them and the Gentiles” (CG).   In the previous verse, Jesus told his apostles to beware of men because they would deliver them up to councils and scourge them in their synagogues. Continuing with this thought, He next says, “And also upon governors and kings, you will be brought.”   A new word is introduced here, agó, translated as “brought.” It is a primary verb signifying to lead, bring, drive, etc. In this case, it is future tense with a passive voice, thus “you will be brought.”   In the Bible, the word translated as governors includes positions such as proconsuls, procurators, etc. The title of king is one that is seen at times in the NT, such as Peter's being arrested under the authority of King Herod in Acts 12.   The words of Jesus here certainly would have applied to these apostles to some extent later in their ministries, but the majority of the interaction with such positions, as recorded in the Bible, was between Paul and such men. This is because Luke especially followed the life of Paul as he traveled among the Gentiles.   In fact, the name Paul was probably one taken on by him after his meeting with Sergius Paulus, as is recorded in Acts 13. After that encounter, he is never called Saul again, except when quoting past events. From that time forward, he was known as Paul. As for the reason for being brought before them, Jesus next says, “because of Me.”   This was their life calling. They were apostles of Jesus, and He was sending them forth bearing His name. It may be that even during this early period, they would appear before such positions, but there is nothing specifically recorded concerning it. Whenever it did happen, however, it was “for a testimony to them and the Gentiles.”   The stating of two different categories, “them and the Gentiles,” seems to indicate that the testimony was for the leaders to hear and then bring a positive influence for the gospel on those under them. As many of these would be Gentile leaders, this is where their influence would rest.   As such, what appears to be the case is that this is referring to something such as the trial of Paul in Acts 25, where Festus, Agrippa, and others held trial. The testimony concerning Jesus was to both Jews and Gentiles there, as it was in other situations Paul found himself in. But Paul, like the other apostles, knew in advance this would be the case –   “Then Ananias answered, ‘Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much harm he has done to Your saints in Jerusalem. 14 And here he has authority from the chief priests to bind all who call on Your name.' 15 But the Lord said to him, ‘Go, for he is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel. 16 For I will show him how many things he must suffer for My name's sake.'” Acts 9:13-16   The words tend to give weight to the thought that while Israel was rejecting the gospel, the Gentiles would begin to be receptive to it.   Life application: The words thus far are intended to show that Israel was given every opportunity to accept Jesus as their Messiah. The testimony to foreign positions of authority and foreigners was actually a part of this. Jesus spoke concerning the sign of Jonah, meaning his preaching.   Jonah said that in forty days, Nineveh was to be destroyed. In the Bible, the often-seen application of such a statement as this is a day for a year. In other words, when Jesus said that the sign of Jonah would be given to them, He was saying that they had forty years to acknowledge Him.   The witness to Gentiles was intended, even from the beginning, to get Israel to see this and turn to Him –   “For I do not desire, brethren, that you should be ignorant of this mystery, lest you should be wise in your own opinion, that blindness in part has happened to Israel until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in. 26 And so all Israel will be saved, as it is written: ‘The Deliverer will come out of Zion, And He will turn away ungodliness from Jacob; 27 For this is My covenant with them, When I take away their sins.'” Romans 9:25-27   Paul wrote this during that forty-year period, and from other passages in the New Testament, it seems that it was believed that this blindness would quickly be replaced with sight, the kingdom would be ushered in, and Jesus' return would have taken place.   And yet, we are still waiting for this to take place two thousand years later. Jesus' plan is being worked out, and His church continues to be built. Israel was destroyed, they were exiled, having rejected Jesus, but they will be spiritually restored to usher in the promised millennial kingdom. Their regathering at this time is for this purpose.   They will go through the purification of the tribulation period along with the rest of the world, but they will be saved through it. God's promises will never fail. Let us trust in this and be confident that everything promised will come about as prophesied.   Lord God, there are times in the past when we have misunderstood Your word. Maybe that is still the case today. There may be a long haul before the return of Jesus comes about. All we can do is wait patiently and continue to faithfully proclaim Your word until then. However, it is our desire to see Him really soon! May You speed His coming. How we long to see Jesus. Amen.

To become a follower of Jesus, visit: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/MeetJesus (NOT a Morning Mindset resource) ⇒ Get a copy of the MM Companion Journal: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/journal ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ TODAY'S SCRIPTURE:   ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ FINANCIALLY SUPPORT THE MORNING MINDSET: (not tax-deductible) -- Become a monthly partner: https://mm-gfk-partners.supercast.com/ -- Support a daily episode: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/daily-sponsor/ -- Give one-time: https://give.cornerstone.cc/careygreen -- Venmo: @CareyNGreen -- Support our SPANISH TRANSLATION: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/supportSpanish -- Support our HINDI TRANSLATION: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/supportHindi -- Support our CHINESE TRANSLATION: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/supportChinese  ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ FOREIGN LANGUAGE VERSIONS OF THIS PODCAST: SPANISH version: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/Spanish HINDI version: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/Hindi CHINESE version: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/Chinese  ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ CONTACT: Carey@careygreen.com  ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ THEME MUSIC: “King’s Trailer” – Creative Commons 0 | Provided by https://freepd.com/ ***All NON-ENGLISH versions of the Morning Mindset are translated using A.I. Dubbing and Translation tools from DubFormer.ai ***All NON-ENGLISH text content (descriptions and titles) are translated using the A.I. functionality of Google Translate. To become a follower of Jesus, visit: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/MeetJesus (NOT a Morning Mindset resource) ⇒ Get a copy of the MM Companion Journal: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/journal ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: Mark 6:14–16 - [14] King Herod heard of it, for Jesus’ name had become known. Some said, “John the Baptist has been raised from the dead. That is why these miraculous powers are at work in him.” [15] But others said, “He is Elijah.” And others said, “He is a prophet, like one of the prophets of old.” [16] But when Herod heard of it, he said, “John, whom I beheaded, has been raised.” (ESV) ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ FINANCIALLY SUPPORT THE MORNING MINDSET: (not tax-deductible) -- Become a monthly partner: https://mm-gfk-partners.supercast.com/ -- Support a daily episode: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/daily-sponsor/ -- Give one-time: https://give.cornerstone.cc/careygreen -- Venmo: @CareyNGreen -- Support our SPANISH TRANSLATION: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/supportSpanish -- Support our HINDI TRANSLATION: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/supportHindi -- Support our CHINESE TRANSLATION: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/supportChinese  ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ FOREIGN LANGUAGE VERSIONS OF THIS PODCAST: SPANISH version: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/Spanish HINDI version: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/Hindi CHINESE version: https://MorningMindsetMedia.com/Chinese  ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ CONTACT: Carey@careygreen.com  ➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖➖ THEME MUSIC: “King’s Trailer” – Creative Commons 0 | Provided by https://freepd.com/ ***All NON-ENGLISH versions of the Morning Mindset are translated using A.I. Dubbing and Translation tools from DubFormer.ai ***All NON-ENGLISH text content (descriptions and titles) are translated using the A.I. functionality of Google Translate.

(Luke  1:15) John didn't just stand against sin in King Herod's life - he struggled against it in his own heart. Through his example we learn the way to true holiness. The culture changes but the way of holiness does not. (09122250520)  Keep Studying  Whether you're a new believer or have walked with the Lord for years, you'll find thousands of free devotionals, Bible studies, audio series, and Scripture tools designed to strengthen your faith, deepen your understanding of the Bible, and help you stay rooted in the Word of God. 

Daily Dose of Hope May 20, 2025 Day 2 of Week 8   Scripture – Matthew 2   Prayer:  Dear God, You are amazing!  How awesome it is that you who created all things are also so intimately involved in our lives.  We give you glory and praise for who you are.  We are so thankful for your love.  We want to know you more.  We want and need to hear your voice.  Help us set aside our scattered thoughts and focus on you.  In these next few moments of silence, Lord, hear our prayers...  In Your Name, Amen. Welcome back, friends, to the Daily Dose of Hope, a devotional and podcast connected to the Bible reading plan at New Hope Church in Brandon, FL.  Today, we are digging into Matthew 2.  This is pretty familiar Scripture to many of us.  Let's try to see it with fresh eyes. The text begins with foreign Magi visiting King Herod.  These men are an interesting and mysterious group. We don't really know much about the magi who come seeking Jesus from eastern lands.  Some translations call them wise men or kings.  Matthew doesn't include a lot of details.  We have no idea how many there actually were (despite the popular carol, Scripture does not say there were just three of them).  Like the shepherds, the magi seem an unlikely group to seek out and worship Jesus. They were pagans, gentiles, involved in the occult, and yet they knew there was something more.  They were searching for something more.  So these magi embark on a long journey, carrying expensive gifts worthy of a king, eager to pay homage. Their efforts lead them to an encounter far beyond their expectations. Unlike an earthly king who would have been found in a palace, the magi are led to what we can probably assume is a modest home of a Jewish family and it's there that they find Jesus with his mother and Scripture says they bow down and worship him.  Maybe it wasn't what they expected but they see God's hand in it nonetheless and worship the one they know to be the Messiah, the savior of the world.  They were outsiders but they recognized the Messiah when so many insiders failed to do so. Up until now, it all sounds great, right?  But there is another character in this story.  His name is Herod the Great. The Herod family ruled over the holy land both before and after the time of Christ, they were somewhat like puppet kings, put in place by the Romans to keep order.  And they don't have a great reputation at all.  They were, for the most part, insecure and power-hungry. One reason I don't think it's accurate to refer to the magi as wise men is because they did one thing that was really unwise.  They go straight to King Herod, “So where is the NEW king? Where is the one who has been named king of the Jews?”  Keep in mind, Herod the Great considered himself to be king of the Jews.  The man is insecure and vicious so he tries to trick the magi into divulging Jesus' location.  But no amount of earthly power can get Herod what he wants.  The magi are warned in a dream to not return to Herod.  And this angers him more.  Herod was both feared and hated. The Jewish historian Josephus painted a picture of Herod as a suspicious and cruel client king, with a history of killing anyone whom he saw as a threat, including three sons and his wife. So even though the magi remind Herod of Micah's prophecy that the Messiah was to be born in Bethlehem (Micah 5:2), his response was not to pay homage but to destroy the newborn king.  In Matthew 2:16, we read that Herod decides to take matters into his own hands and kill all the baby boys who might be in the age range of Jesus, When Herod realized that he had been outwitted by the Magi, he was furious, and he gave orders to kill all the boys in Bethlehem and its vicinity who were two years old and under, in accordance with the time he had learned from the Magi.  Truly dark and horrific.  The extent to which human beings will go to gain power surely demonstrates the brokenness of our world.  Then and now.  But through all of this, Jesus is saved.  The baby's family is warned in a dream and they head down to Egypt for a period of time to keep the boy safe from Herod before they come back to Israel and settle in Nazareth.  Because God's purposes will prevail.  God had promised long, long ago to send a Savior for his people and there is nothing that could get in the way.  Listen to this prophecy from in Isaiah 9:6-7, spoken 700 years before the birth of Jesus, For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end.  He will reign on David's throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this.  It's like God was saying “I'm going to send someone who will restore the people of Israel to me.  This person will be a light to the Gentiles, and will bring my salvation to the ends of the earth AND it will be obvious once more that your God reigns.”  No power-hungry king could mess that up as hard as he tried.  No earthly power could thwart God's plan of redemption for his people.  It's true that bad things to happen.  God allows human beings free will and that is too often used for evil.  But that doesn't mean God isn't involved, it doesn't mean he isn't invested, God can and has orchestrated, changed, and/or stopped the plans of all kinds of people to get done what needs to get done.  God has been working, in his time, over the course of thousands of years, to achieve his bigger purpose. And what was the bigger purpose?  God's mission from the beginning was to redeem his world.  He did this through Jesus.  That little baby that the wise men knelt down and worshiped, that child that Herod felt so threatened by --- that child would grow to become the Savior of the world.  He would bring sight to the blind, freedom for the oppressed, he would proclaim good news to the poor.  He would preach the Kingdom of God and show the world a different way of living, ultimately giving up his own life voluntarily on a Roman cross.  In doing so, he became the final sacrifice for sin, providing a way for you and me and all people to be redeemed.  Because of Jesus' sacrifice, our sins can be forgiven and we can walk hand in hand with a holy God.  Because of Jesus, nothing separates us from God.  And then, three days after he died, he was resurrected, defeating evil and death and demonstrating to the world who HE is.  He is, after all, God.  Jesus is the Lord. Jesus is LORD of all.  Paul writes this in Colossians 1:15-20, The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. 16 For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. 17 He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. 18 And he is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy. 19 For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him, 20 and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross.  Jesus is above all things.  Jesus is Lord. And over the course of 2000 years, rulers and kings and dictators and autocrats have tried to wipe out his influence.  They have misused his teachings, they have twisted the Gospel.  Like Herod, they have done all kinds of things to either try to eliminate the influence of Jesus or to use the Gospel for their own deceitful purposes.  And at times, it's been ugly and violent and really sad.  But this is TRUTH:  God will ensure that his purposes prevail.  Yes, in our sinful and broken world, all kinds of horrors will occur.  Vladimir Putin will think he's invincible.  Kim Jong Un will declare himself supreme ruler.  American politicians will think themselves unshakable.  You and I will experience heartbreak, loss, and illness.  And yet, Jesus is still Lord of all.  God is still working in our lives, God is still present with us in the middle of the mess, and Jesus is still in the business of transforming lives.  Friends, Jesus is on the throne, King of Kings and Lord of Lords.  The rulers of the world may oppose him but they are ultimately answerable to him.  Because he will come again. I'll stop there for now.  But I do have to ask this question:  Is Jesus Lord of your life?  More tomorrow. Blessings, Pastor Vicki    

OPENING: Just read the scripture Acts 12:1-19 It was about this time that King Herod arrested some who belonged to the church, intending to persecute them. 2 He had James, the brother of John, put to death with the sword. I can't even begin to imagine how traumatic this was for the believers. -Stephen had been murdered, Paul had started persecuting the church. Now you have James, the brother of John put to death with a sword. this is the John that you read his letters in the scripture… That guy's brother tragically murdered, and for what, their belief in the resurrection of the dead through Jesus. 3 When he [Herod] saw that this [killing James] met with approval among the Jews, he proceeded to seize Peter also. This happened during the Festival of Unleavened Bread. This is passover. It's the same time of year that Herod had allowed the Romans to put Jesus to death. He's now trying to garner popularity with the Jews by putting the leaders of Christianity to death. He's already murdered James - now Peter… Can I ask you a question? What do you do if this is you? What do you do when you see tragedy on a major level? What do you do when you've done everything right and you still have a child who rebels and walks away from the Lord? Or you lived a good God honoring life and just got diagnosed with early stages of dementia.. or there is some other major tragedy that seems impossible to overcome? What do you do? b Today, I want to show you what the early church did when they were facing terrifying circumstances. See, the story is going to get wild, Peter's going to be in prison guarded by four squads of four soldiers each - this is major - they are afraid someone might try something. Listen to vs 5 though 5 So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him. Did you notice what the church did? The church gathered and prayed. They sought God on Peter's behalf and I want you to listen to the results… 6 The night before Herod was to bring him to trial, Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains, and sentries stood guard at the entrance. 7 Suddenly an angel of the Lord appeared and a light shone in the cell. He struck Peter on the side and woke him up. “Quick, get up!” he said, and the chains fell off Peter's wrists. 8 Then the angel said to him, “Put on your clothes and sandals.” And Peter did so. “Wrap your cloak around you and follow me,” the angel told him. 9 Peter followed him out of the prison, but he had no idea that what the angel was doing was really happening; he thought he was seeing a vision. 10 They passed the first and second guards and came to the iron gate leading to the city. It opened for them by itself, and they went through it. When they had walked the length of one street, suddenly the angel left him. 11 Then Peter came to himself and said, “Now I know without a doubt that the Lord has sent his angel and rescued me from Herod's clutches and from everything the Jewish people were hoping would happen.” Peter thinks he's hallucinating or having a vision and doesn't realize it's really happening. This wasn't what he was expecting. And who would? Who would expect that God was going to send angels to break the chains and walk him out of prison? But that's what God did. 12 When this had dawned on him, he went to the house of Mary the mother of John, also called Mark, where many people had gathered and were praying. 13 Peter knocked at the outer entrance, and a servant named Rhoda came to answer the door. 14 When she recognized Peter's voice, she was so overjoyed she ran back without opening it and exclaimed, “Peter is at the door!” I love this. Rhoda like opens the door sees Peter and slams it in his face and runs back to tell everyone else kind of thing. He's left standing there like… hmm de dum… She goes to tell everyone else and they can't believe it… I love it, they were praying but were not ready for what God was going to do. CLOSING ILLUSTRATION: I need to be honest with you guys. The past couple of weeks have been some of the hardest I've had in ministry. Lots going on and lots to be thinking about very quickly as a church. We've faced some pretty big hurdles and are continuing to figure out how to overcome them. But I want to tell you, what has been the most encouraging part has been to see how the Body of Christ still comes together to pray. Our church a week and a half ago found out that PCA was going to be closing their doors. That's a really big deal for everyone in this room whether you realize it or not. It's a big deal because our about 20% of our churches budget comes from the rental income from the space the school was renting. but what I've seen is people coming together to pray - you saw that video earlier. I've had so many people come together and tell me they are praying, their connect group is praying. I mean it's been a pretty amazing time in the midst of some hard stuff to see the people of God come together and seek God.. Here's what I want to tell you that has been on my mind through all of this. We don't have to wait for tragedy to seek God like this. b We can seek Him with all our heart, like our life depends on it, every day of the week… The church is at her best during tragedy because the Church knows who holds the world in His hands and we trust Him… This is not to say God is always going to fix everything. A few chapters earlier in the book of Acts Stephen is stoned to death and God doesn't stop it. But where God is, is He is with Stephen. See, what I am certain of is that God does not leave us alone, there is nothing that can separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus. I want to close by reading one more passage to you to encourage you and then I want to ask us to do something a little crazy. I want to ask you to gather with a few people around you and pray out loud. I will give you a few things to pray for as Anthony plays guitar quietly and for you to pray over these things as the church coming together. Romans 8:35-39 35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? 36 As it is written: “For your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.”[j] 37 No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. 38 For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39 neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. [prayer time - Anthony, play softly behind this as I give people things to pray for] Pray for the employees at PCA and the families Pray for the eldership at Harmony as we make decisions Pray for the lost in our community Pray for the churches of our community Pray for the hurting in our church ---------------------- Acts 12:1-19 It was about this time that King Herod arrested some who belonged to the church, intending to persecute them. 2 He had James, the brother of John, put to death with the sword. 3 When he saw that this met with approval among the Jews, he proceeded to seize Peter also. This happened during the Festival of Unleavened Bread. 4 After arresting him, he put him in prison, handing him over to be guarded by four squads of four soldiers each. Herod intended to bring him out for public trial after the Passover. 5 So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him. 6 The night before Herod was to bring him to trial, Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains, and sentries stood guard at the entrance. 7 Suddenly an angel of the Lord appeared and a light shone in the cell. He struck Peter on the side and woke him up. “Quick, get up!” he said, and the chains fell off Peter's wrists. 8 Then the angel said to him, “Put on your clothes and sandals.” And Peter did so. “Wrap your cloak around you and follow me,” the angel told him. 9 Peter followed him out of the prison, but he had no idea that what the angel was doing was really happening; he thought he was seeing a vision. 10 They passed the first and second guards and came to the iron gate leading to the city. It opened for them by itself, and they went through it. When they had walked the length of one street, suddenly the angel left him. 11 Then Peter came to himself and said, “Now I know without a doubt that the Lord has sent his angel and rescued me from Herod's clutches and from everything the Jewish people were hoping would happen.” 12 When this had dawned on him, he went to the house of Mary the mother of John, also called Mark, where many people had gathered and were praying. 13 Peter knocked at the outer entrance, and a servant named Rhoda came to answer the door. 14 When she recognized Peter's voice, she was so overjoyed she ran back without opening it and exclaimed, “Peter is at the door!” 15 “You're out of your mind,” they told her. When she kept insisting that it was so, they said, “It must be his angel.” 16 But Peter kept on knocking, and when they opened the door and saw him, they were astonished. 17 Peter motioned with his hand for them to be quiet and described how the Lord had brought him out of prison. “Tell James and the other brothers and sisters about this,” he said, and then he left for another place. 18 In the morning, there was no small commotion among the soldiers as to what had become of Peter. 19 After Herod had a thorough search made for him and did not find him, he cross-examined the guards and ordered that they be executed.

This week we jumped back into our journey through the book of Acts and our series ‘Church In The Wild', by looking at Acts chapter 12.At the beginning of Acts chapter 12, we see King Herod persecuting and murdering believers, and upon seeing how much it pleased the people, he doubles down and takes it even further.This highlights just how susceptible our flesh is to the fear of man, to this anxious need for people's approval, and affirmation. It also highlights how far we'll go to win that approval.Proverbs 29 tells us that the fear of man is a snare, or trap? What, then, is the solution?We explored the truth that while the fear of man is dangerous, there is a fear that sets you free. We unpacked this in a message called, “Fear That Frees”.Join us for service online or in person every Sunday at 8am, 9:30am, 11am, & 12:30pm (PST).If you want to share how God is moving in your life through this ministry, please let us know at info@captivatesd.com!Decided To Follow Jesus? Sign up to receive a copy of our “I Have Decided” booklets - https://shorturl.at/GymIkGet plugged in!Next Steps - captivatesd.com/next-stepsVisit - captivatesd.com/visitCommunities - captivatesd.com/communitiesIf you would like to support Captivate financially you can give online through our website by clicking here captivatesd.com/giving Need prayer? Please let us know! - https://captivatesd.churchcenter.com/people/forms/597023For more information about Captivate Church, visit captivatesd.com or follow us on our social media platforms below.Instagram - Instagram.com/captivatechurchsdFacebook - facebook.com/captivatesdWatch More Messages: youtube.com/@CaptivateChurch/videos

According to Matthew's Gospel account, the Holy Family fled to Egypt to escape King Herod’s wrath. Most Christian apologists believe Jesus, his Mother Mary, and his adoptive father Joseph probably remained in Egypt for several years, until the death of Herod the Great. Enjoy this ENCORE Presentation! Hearing Jesus podcast available at https://amzn.to/3QLEpee Gospel of Matthew available at https://amzn.to/3sxXmZS ENJOY Ad-Free content, Bonus episodes, and Extra materials when joining our growing community on https://patreon.com/markvinet SUPPORT this channel by purchasing any product on Amazon using this FREE entry LINK https://amzn.to/3POlrUD (Amazon gives us credit at NO extra charge to you). Mark Vinet's HISTORY OF NORTH AMERICA podcast: www.parthenonpodcast.com/history-of-north-america Mark's TIMELINE Video channel: https://youtube.com/c/TIMELINE_MarkVinet Website: https://markvinet.com/podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mark.vinet.9 Twitter: https://twitter.com/HistoricalJesu Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/denarynovels Mark's books: https://amzn.to/3k8qrGM Audio credit: Hearing Jesus podcast with Rachael Groll, episode 380: Understanding the Escape to Egypt: A Deep Dive into Matthew 2:13-23 (Life Audio, Salem Web Network). Audio excerpts reproduced under the Fair Use (Fair Dealings) Legal Doctrine for purposes such as criticism, comment, teaching, education, scholarship, research and news reporting. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

According to Matthew's Gospel account, the Holy Family fled to Egypt to escape King Herod’s wrath. Most Christian apologists believe Jesus, his Mother Mary, and his adoptive father Joseph probably remained in Egypt for several years, until the death of Herod the Great. Enjoy this ENCORE Presentation! Bishop Robert Barron books available at https://amzn.to/44W7nwN The Saint of the Day podcast at https://amzn.to/4cpIyyt Saint of the Day podcast with J. Atherholt at https://ancientfaith.com Saint of the Day podcast with M. Roberts at https://ourcatholicradio.org/programs/saint-day Joseph of Nazareth books available at https://amzn.to/4aVqVpa Gospel of Matthew available at https://amzn.to/3sxXmZS ENJOY Ad-Free content, Bonus episodes, and Extra materials when joining our growing community on https://patreon.com/markvinet SUPPORT this channel by purchasing any product on Amazon using this FREE entry LINK https://amzn.to/3POlrUD (Amazon gives us credit at NO extra charge to you). Mark Vinet's HISTORY OF NORTH AMERICA podcast: www.parthenonpodcast.com/history-of-north-america Mark's TIMELINE Video channel: https://youtube.com/c/TIMELINE_MarkVinet Website: https://markvinet.com/podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mark.vinet.9 Twitter: https://twitter.com/HistoricalJesu Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/denarynovels Mark's books: https://amzn.to/3k8qrGM Audio credits: Bishop Barron’s Sunday Sermons-Herod and Joseph, 25dec2019 (Word on Fire Catholic Ministries). Saint of the Day podcast: The Flight into Egypt of the Holy Family (26dec2023), Greek Orthodox Deacon Jerome Atherholt and Ancient Faith Radio. The Saint of the Day podcast (S1E319 St. Joseph 19mar2023). Saint of the Day with Mike Roberts: Solemnity Of Saint Joseph (episode e324, 19mar2024). Audio excerpts reproduced under the Fair Use (Fair Dealings) Legal Doctrine for purposes such as criticism, comment, teaching, education, scholarship, research and news reporting.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Caleb Drahosh The question "who is Jesus?" continues to stump people, including King Herod. Herod thinks Jesus is John the Baptist back from the dead. John was killed by Herod when he made a rash vow to his niece. Herod feared John the Baptist; John was righteous and holy. But Herodias hated John because he called out her sinful marriage to Herod. Sin has a cumulative effect; sin begets sin and generates fear in the hearts of those in whom it goes untreated. To those ones, truth becomes a terror.

Welcome to the Christmas series! The magi arrive at the palace of King Herod, looking for the King of the Jews. Herod welcomes them with false-humility, smiling through his gritted teeth. Something isn't right. Sign up for special devotionals at StoriesoftheMessiah.com. As we dive deeply into iconic Bible heroes' enthralling narratives, we find more than just stories of faith and miracles. We discover a recurrent theme, a spiritual undertone that connects each tale to the grandeur of the Gospel. They're not just standalone legends; they're threads in a divine tapestry, weaving a story that foreshadows Jesus Christ, the ultimate hero, the promised Messiah who brings light to the darkest corners of history. For more Bible stories download the Pray.com app.  To learn more about Rabbi Schneider visit https://discoveringthejewishjesus.com/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Watch on Philo! - Philo.tv/DTHYou need to know something right off the bat: the Herdmans are the worst kids in the world. There's Imogen, the eldest, then Ralph, Leroy, Claude, Ollie, and Gladys. They smoke. They curse. They bully. They're just plain bad.Enter Beth Bradley, our narrator. Early on, her locket gets stolen, and she prays to God to send the Herdmans far, far away.Meanwhile, the church's 75th annual Christmas pageant is coming up—it's a big deal. Mrs. Armstrong, who's directed it every year, breaks both her legs, so Beth's mom, Grace, steps in. Despite all the skeptics, she boldly claims it's going to be the best Christmas pageant ever.Beth's little brother Charlie has been getting bullied into giving Leroy Herdman his lunch cookies. Out of frustration, Charlie tells them he doesn't even care—he gets all the snacks he wants at church.Big mistake.Leroy spreads the word to his siblings, and the next thing you know, the Herdmans show up at church. The pastor says they've got to attend Sunday school first—so they do.But even more shocking than them staying is when Imogen declares she's going to play Mary, and Ralph is going to be Joseph. The rest of the major roles? Also claimed by Herdmans. The other kids decide it's probably best not to argue.When the church community hears about this, they protest: You can't let the Herdmans be in the pageant!At the first rehearsal, Grace realizes something big—the Herdmans have never heard the story of Jesus. They're stunned by it. They demand King Herod be included in the play… and that he be taken out.Imogen ropes Beth into helping them research the story of Christmas at the library.The final dress rehearsal is a mess. Imogen's brothers hide the baby Jesus doll, the choir falls apart, and a fire alarm goes off. Everyone assumes Imogen pulled it—or that she was smoking in the bathroom. Turns out, something just burned in the oven.Imogen overhears the townspeople badmouthing her family and decides they're done. The Herdmans vanish.The next day, Grace can't get ahold of them. Beth goes to Imogen's house and reminds her that Grace stuck up for them. Imogen gives no sign of what they'll do. So that night, as Grace prepares to open the show, she tells the audience honestly—she has no idea what's going to happen.And then, just in time, the Herdmans show up.They bring their own flair to the pageant: Imogen gently burps the baby doll, the Wise Men bring a ham, and Imogen even sheds a tear. The crowd is unexpectedly moved—they love it.The film closes with a grown-up Beth now directing the Christmas pageant herself, carrying on the wild, wonderful legacy of the Herdmans.

According to the gospel of Matthew, shortly after Jesus was born an angel appeared to Joseph in a dream telling him to flee with his family to Egypt, since King Herod was going to try to kill the new baby. They stayed there, according to Christian tradition, until Herod had died and it was safe to return. This incident, popularly known as the “flight to Egypt,” has inspired an array of artistic depictions. It has also inspired a popular pro-immigration argument: Christians should welcome those seeking safety in their country, because Jesus, too, was a refugee. The Vatican has even published various documents citing Jesus' refugee status.  But was Jesus really a refugee? Would the Holy Family be granted refugee status, according to the laws and definitions of today? On this episode of the podcast, theologian and social ethicist Glenn Butner talks to the hosts about what it means to be a refugee, the significance of the flight to Egypt, whether it is accurate to call Jesus a refugee, and the theological implications of this topic.  Butner is an associate professor of theology at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary and the author of multiple books on theology and social ethics, including Jesus the Refugee: Ancient Injustice and Modern Solidarity.  You can learn more about this topic and Butner's work in these links.  Jesus the Refugee: Ancient Injustice and Modern Solidarity, by D. Glenn Butner Jr. Jesus the Refugee: Ancient Injustice and Modern Solidarity | Fortress Press “Was Jesus a refugee?” by Alice Camille Was Jesus a refugee? - U.S. Catholic “Think of the Holy Family fleeing Herod and pray for migrants, pope says,” by Cindy Wooden Think of the Holy Family fleeing Herod and pray for migrants, pope says | National Catholic Reporter Message of His Holiness Benedict XVI for the 93rd World Day of Migrants And Refugees  Message on the occasion of the 93rd World Day of Migrants and Refugees 2007 (October 18, 2006) | BENEDICT XVI What is a refugee? Definition and Meaning What is a Refugee? Definition and Meaning | USA for UNHCR Refugees and Asylum Refugees and Asylum | USCIS Glad You Asked is sponsored by the Claretian Missionaries.

Basic Bible Study | Matthew, Mark, Luke & John (Part 4) This is part 4 of 7 In today's podcast, join Amy and Robyn as they continue their discussion in Matthew, Mark, Luke & John. Here is a breakdown of what was discussed: - King Herod was not happy when Jesus was born; he feared his power was at stake - the wise men followed the star in the east to Bethlehem, where Jesus was; they worshiped Him & gave Him gifts of gold, frankincense & myrrh; they didn't return to King Herod - divine guidance comes only to prepared hearts “If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” (Romans 10:9) ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ABOUT Opening a Bible for the first time can be intimidating. Join Amy & Robyn in an easy-to-follow discussion. This Basic Bible Study is perfect for beginners & those who have never read the Bible. Look for new podcasts every Tuesday & Friday! ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ BIBLE RESOURCES https://biblehub.com/ https://www.bible.com/ http://betterdaysarecoming.com/bible/pronunciation.html https://biblespeak.org/ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/mybasicbiblestudy WEBSITE http://www.mybasicbiblestudy.com ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ You can contact us via e-mail or regular old snail-mail: Basic Bible Study 7797 N. 1st St. #34 Fresno, CA 93720 basicbiblestudy19@gmail.com ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Paul Louis Lessard currently plays King George III on Hamilton's Philip Tour and this week they tell us about how playing King Herod in Jesus Christ Superstar helped them get there. Paul was admittedly one of those people who had an "aversion" to Hamilton back in the 2016 era, but eventually he was listening to (and falling in love with) select songs like "Take a Break" and "Wait For It." But it was "You'll Be Back" that led him to write a Facebook post way back in 2016 letting the world know that one day he will be playing King George III. It didn't hurt that almost all of Paul's King Herod reviews mentioned a KG3 vibe, which Paul made sure casting knew about when he was auditioning for Hamilton almost eight years later in 2023. Paul Louis Lessard Paul on Instagram /// Gillian's Website The Hamilcast on Twitter The Hamilcast on Instagram Join the Patreon Peeps

One of these stories had a resurrection that actually worked… This week on The Infamous Podcast, Brian and Darryl close the chapter on Daredevil: Born Again Season 1, and it's… a choice. Then they dig into Amazon's new supernatural bounty hunter series The Bondsman, which might just be the weirdest thing Prime Video has greenlit this month (and that's saying something). Darryl delivers a mini-review of The King of Kings—a cinematic sermon or box office blunder? Meanwhile, Brian charges in with a tactical breakdown of Warfare, where the explosions were loud and the film was in-ten-city-in-ten-cities. Episode Index Intro: 0:07 The King of Kings Mini-Review: 6:00 Warfare Mini-Review: 12:08 Daredevil: Born Again Finale: 21:50 The Bondsman Season 1: 36:11 Mini-Review: The King of Kings (2025) – Rating 8/10 Summary Directed by Seong-ho Jang, this animated film features Charles Dickens (voiced by Kenneth Branagh) narrating the life of Jesus to his son Walter, who imagines himself witnessing biblical events. The film combines a unique framing device with a faithful retelling of the Gospels, featuring voice talents like Oscar Isaac as Jesus and Mark Hamill as King Herod. It's a heartfelt, family-friendly portrayal that resonates with audiences of all ages.  Mini-Review: Warfare (2025) – Rating 6.75/10 Summary Co-directed by Ray Mendoza and Alex Garland, “Warfare” offers a harrowing, real-time depiction of a Navy SEAL mission gone awry in Ramadi, Iraq. Based on Mendoza's own experiences, the film immerses viewers in the chaos of combat, highlighting the psychological toll on soldiers. With a strong ensemble cast and a commitment to authenticity, it's a visceral exploration of modern warfare's realities. Daredevil: Born Again (Disney+) Out of 5 Broken Batons Darryl: 2.75/5 Brian: 3.2/5 Season 1 Out of 10 Conflicted Catholics in Spandex Darryl: 6.25/10 Brian: 6.9/10 Summary In the finale titled “Straight to Hell,” Matt Murdock faces devastating losses: Foggy Nelson is murdered by Bullseye under Vanessa Fisk's orders, and Kingpin seizes control of New York, imposing martial law. Despite the chaos, Matt, with allies like Karen Page and the Punisher, begins to form a resistance, setting the stage for a darker, more intense Season 2.  The Bondsman – Season 1 (Prime) Out of 10 Deals with the Devil Darryl: 7.5/10 Brian: 7.85/10 Summary The Bondsman is a supernatural western-action series from Amazon Prime that blends grit, grief, and a touch of hellfire. It follows Hub Halloran (played by Kevin Bacon), a grizzled and recently deceased bounty hunter who gets a second shot at redemption — but with a catch: he's brought back to life by the Devil himself to track down demons who've escaped Hell. Armed with his cowboy instincts, a sarcastic streak, and a growing sense of purpose, Hub rides across dusty towns and shadowy landscapes hunting hellspawn, questioning whether this is punishment, penance… or something more cosmic. Along the way, he reconnects with estranged family, forms an unlikely bond with a demon-turned-sidekick named Midge, and uncovers a deeper plot that could tear open the gates of Hell permanently. The tone walks a line between Justified and Supernatural, with bursts of dark humor, philosophical musings, and buckets of demon-slaying chaos. Bacon brings swagger and weariness in equal measure, anchoring a surprisingly emotional core in a show that never takes itself too seriously — until it suddenly does. Episode 1: “Hell to Pay” Bounty hunter Hub Halloran is murdered and resurrected by the Devil to hunt escaped demons, marking the start of his supernatural journey. Episode 2: “Dead Man's Debt” Hub captures an arsonist named Tater, uncovering a larger demonic plot. Episode 3: “Family Ties” Hub reconnects with his estranged family, seeking assistance in his mission. Episode 4: “Crossroads” A demon threatens a local community, forcing Hub to make a moral choice. Episode 5: “The Devil's Due” Hub confronts the consequences of his past actions as a bounty hunter. Episode 6: “Revelations” Hub uncovers a deeper conspiracy involving escaped demons and seeks help from Midge. Episode 7: “Pyralis” Hub and Midge attempt to prevent an apocalyptic event orchestrated by a powerful demon. Episode 8: “Lilith” Hub confronts his greatest sin and faces a formidable demonic adversary, seeking redemption. Contact Us The Infamous Podcast can be found wherever podcasts are found on the Interwebs, feel free to subscribe and follow along on social media. And don't be shy about helping out the show with a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts to help us move up in the ratings. @infamouspodcast facebook/infamouspodcast instagram/infamouspodcast stitcher Apple Podcasts Spotify Google Play iHeart Radio contact@infamouspodcast.com Our theme music is ‘Skate Beat’ provided by Michael Henry, with additional music provided by Michael Henry. Find more at MeetMichaelHenry.com. The Infamous Podcast is hosted by Brian Tudor and Darryl Jasper, is recorded in Cincinnati, Ohio. The show is produced and edited by Brian Tudor. Subscribe today!

Jesus and his disciples have been traveling from town to town, and in today's reading, they return to Nazareth, which is where Jesus grew up and where his family resides. Those who knew his family knew that he grew up without formal teaching under the roof of a humble, blue-collar father. Jesus doesn't have the accolades of the scribes and Pharisees, and so they reject his teaching. Jesus then commissions the twelve apostles and they spread out into the nearby towns and villages teaching, healing, and casting out demons. Later, Mark gives us a detailed account of the fate of John the Baptist, who was beheaded by King Herod at a party. We'll also hear accounts of Jesus feeding the five thousand, walking on water, and healing the sick. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Daily Dose of Hope April 15, 2025 Day 2 of Week 3   Scripture – Mark 6:14-29   Prayer:  Almighty God, I come before you today with a sense of gratefulness.  You are Lord of all and yet you care for me.  Thank you, Lord.  Help me walk through this day with humility and your wisdom; help me represent you well.  Lord, in these next few moments of silence, help me gather my scattered thoughts, I want to hear your voice...Come Holy Spirit, and guide this time.  In Your Name, Amen.   Welcome back, everyone, to the Daily Dose of Hope, a Deep Dive into the Gospels and Acts.  Today is day two of three in Mark 6 and our focus is shifting back to John the Baptist.   Our section starts with King Herod asking about Jesus, who was gaining quite a bit of fame in the area.  One person answered that he might be John the Baptist reincarnated.  This gets Herod concerned, as he had John executed not long before.    Let's talk briefly about the Herods.  These were political figures appointed by the Roman government to oversee Judea.  Most people consider them very insecure puppet kings.  They did what the Romans wanted and in return got to keep their power and wealth.  While they considered themselves to be Jewish, they really were not and they certainly didn't behave they obedient Jews, which certainly did not endear them to the “real” Jewish residents.  Just for some context, Herod the Great was the ruler at the time of Jesus' birth (remember the one who ordered all the male babies to be killed in Bethlehem?)  He was an extremely violent king and is said to have killed his wife, her two sons, and anyone he perceived as a threat.  Not a nice guy.  His own son, Herod Antipas, is the one in today's Scripture.    This Herod had decided to divorce his own wife to marry his brother Philip's wife, Herodias.  It was quite a messy family situation.  Philip was still alive and Herodias was both Herod Agrippa's and Philip's niece.  Basically, Herod was trampling all over God's laws and John the Baptist had called him out on it.  Herod could have easily executed John because he spoke out against the marriage, but he chose not to do so.  Herod keeps John in prison but alive. It seemed that Herod actually had a lot of respect for John because he considered him a righteous man of God.   But Herodias, the wife/niece, was a different story.  She hated John for the way he spoke out.  So she bided her time until she was able to get her revenge.  The time came when at Herod's birthday party.  Herodias' daughter performed some kind of very seductive dance for the guests (keep in mind the dysfunction of this family).  In return for her provocative dance, a probably fairly drunk and lustful Herod offers the daughter anything she wants.  She asks her mother what to ask for and Herodias knows this is her opportunity to get rid of John the Baptist.  Herodias instructs the girl to ask for John the Baptist's head on a platter.  Herod was distressed at this, as he did admire John, but he felt the need to honor the very public request.  He sends the executioner to the prison and John is beheaded immediately.    The brutality of this narrative is a bit shocking.  Because Jesus was a man of peace, I think we sometimes forget how violent the Roman world was at that time.  The Romans, and in turn, the Herods, ruled with an iron fist.  They had perfected the art of frequent execution.  Keep in mind, there was no due process.  People could be killed or tortured for just about anything.  There was political tension, frequent uprisings, heavy taxation, and people were jailed for not being able to pay their fair share.  There was desperate poverty and the poor faced incredible hardships.    It was into this world that Jesus came.  You can see why the people were so ready for his message.  But is our world any different?    I'm going to close today with John 16:33.  These are the words of Jesus, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”   Blessings, Pastor Vicki  

What kind of monarch and man was Herod the Great? During his long reign (40 to 4 or 1 BC) King Herod left his mark, but how shall he be remembered in memory and by history? The Christians, Their First Two Thousand Years book at https://amzn.to/3U4hlu3 Dan Snow's History Hit podcast available at https://amzn.to/48HlmtH Books by Seth Schwartz at https://amzn.to/49US5vJ ENJOY Ad-Free content, Bonus episodes, and Extra materials when joining our growing community on https://patreon.com/markvinet SUPPORT this channel by purchasing any product on Amazon using this FREE entry LINK https://amzn.to/3POlrUD (Amazon gives us credit at NO extra charge to you). Mark Vinet's HISTORY OF NORTH AMERICA podcast: www.parthenonpodcast.com/history-of-north-america Mark's TIMELINE Video channel: https://youtube.com/c/TIMELINE_MarkVinet Website: https://markvinet.com/podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mark.vinet.9 Twitter: https://twitter.com/HistoricalJesu Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/denarynovels Mark's books: https://amzn.to/3k8qrGM Audio credit: The Christians, Their First Two Thousand Years – The Veil is Torn A.D. 30 to A.D. 70 Pentecost to the Destruction of Jerusalem by Ted Byfield (CHP); Dan Snow's History Hit podcast (Episode 1337: King Herod with Seth Schwartz, professor of Classical Jewish Civilization at New York City’s Columbia University). Audio excerpts reproduced under the Fair Use (Fair Dealings) Legal Doctrine for purposes such as criticism, comment, teaching, education, scholarship, research and news reporting. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

King Herod the Great of Judea died in 4 B.C. in Jericho, succumbing to a gruesome, mysterious illness. An enormous funeral procession carried his body on a golden bier to the edge of the Judaean desert, where an elaborate resting place in his beloved Herodium awaited him. Paulogia podcast available at https://amzn.to/3Tg2Eno Herod the Great books available at https://amzn.to/3T5iKyw ENJOY Ad-Free content, Bonus episodes, and Extra materials when joining our growing community on https://patreon.com/markvinet SUPPORT this channel by purchasing any product on Amazon using this FREE entry LINK https://amzn.to/3POlrUD (Amazon gives us credit at NO extra charge to you). Mark Vinet's HISTORY OF NORTH AMERICA podcast: www.parthenonpodcast.com/history-of-north-america Mark's TIMELINE Video channel: https://youtube.com/c/TIMELINE_MarkVinet Website: https://markvinet.com/podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mark.vinet.9 Twitter: https://twitter.com/HistoricalJesu Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/denarynovels Mark's books: https://amzn.to/3k8qrGM Audio credit: Why Christianity Framed Herod as a Baby Killer? (Paulogia podcast with Dr. Jodi Magness). All audio excerpts reproduced under the Fair Use (Fair Dealings) Legal Doctrine for purposes such as criticism, comment, teaching, education, scholarship, research and news reporting. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We dip into cinematic classics of the silent age (before people learned how to talk) with 1923 classic SALOMÉ, co-directed by married couple Charles Bryant and Alla Nazimova. The latter stars as the titular SALOMÉ, a Bible character who has achieved historical infamy despite not being officially referred to by her first name. The story is provocative: a teenage princess dances seductively for her stepfather King Herod who promises her anything in reward; she picks the head of prophet John the Baptist, who is summarily executed and presented to her on a platter. Bryant and Nazimova's SALOMÉ takes cues from the Oscar Wilde play on the subject, adding extra-historical depth to the characters to portray Herod's throne in the throes of self destructive decadence. Male characters are simpering and devilishly gay (note that Alla Nazimova herself was openly bisexual, so this feels like intentional camp rather than homophobia.) Fashions are extravagant and imaginative, seeming both historical and futuristic. Physical acting is taken to extremes: SALOMÉ is a truly exciting watch, showcasing how much depth of character is possible from a silent film. To watch SALOMÉ is to not only experience an avant-garde take on Bible story, but also to see human ingenuity on full display with no boundaries to self expression despite limitations by emerging technology. Unrelated, in this episode the Bible Boys also discuss our new obsessions in ultra contemporary media: Harmony Korine's BABY INVASION and teen orthodox Jewish influencer Flynn Goldstein. View our full episode list and subscribe to any of our public feeds: http://boysbiblestudy.com Unlock 2+ bonus episodes per month: http://patreon.com/boysbiblestudy Subscribe to our Twitch for livestreams: http://twitch.tv/boysbiblestudy Follow us on Instagram: http://instagram.com/boysbiblestudy Follow us on Twitter: http://twitter.com/boysbiblestudy

King Herod proves the insanity of fighting God, who judges him and responds to the church's fervent prayers. The gospel cannot be stopped, and his word cannot be chained. The post The Insanity of Fighting God (Acts Sermon 27) appeared first on Two Journeys.

King Herod proves the insanity of fighting God, who judges him and responds to the church's fervent prayers. The gospel cannot be stopped, and his word cannot be chained. The post The Insanity of Fighting God (Acts Sermon 27) appeared first on Two Journeys.

King Herod proves the insanity of fighting God, who judges him and responds to the church's fervent prayers. The gospel cannot be stopped, and his word cannot be chained. The post The Insanity of Fighting God (Acts Sermon 27) appeared first on Two Journeys.

The Western Wall  Part 14:  Wilson's Arch  -  English and Spanish.  One of the ancient gates in King Herod's Western Wall was located above a massive archway.  The remains of the arch can still be seen today as a testimony to the majesty of Herod's temple!  This an updated version with translation of a podcast originally recorded March 18, 2023. El Muro Occidental, parte 14: Arco de Wilson -  Inglés y español.  Una de las antiguas puertas del Muro Occidental del rey Herodes estaba situada sobre un enorme arco.  Los restos del arco aún pueden verse hoy en día como testimonio de la majestuosidad del templo de Herodes.  Esta es una versión actualizada con traducción de un podcast grabado originalmente el 18 de marzo de 2023.

Tap here to send us a message!King Herod stands as a stark warning of what happens when a person chooses to sit on the throne of their own life, determined to do whatever it takes to make themselves the king of their domain. His relentless pursuit of power is a mirror for each of us, showing the spiritual danger of letting our own desires and ambitions rule us, rather than submitting to God's authority. To follow Christ means rejecting the temptation to be our own ruler, surrendering every area of our lives to His control, and allowing Jesus alone to reign as the King.03/30/2025 - Sunday Afternoon Scriptures:Proverbs 21:1Proverbs 12:21Proverbs 22:6Acts 2:37-38Matthew 21:44Matthew 16:24-26

Theme From Sunday's Sermon: Salvation: God's Solution to Sin On this edition of One Single Story, Pastors Stephen Mizell, Jay Rivenbark, and Alyssa Bream discuss the following questions: During our Bible reading today, there was a little detail that jumped out at me for some reason. When King Herod heard about Jesus, why was he puzzled? What was he confused about? So, do you think that Herod was puzzled only because he was keeping an eye on Jesus for fear that he might be leading a political rebellion? People are not converted by the principles of Jesus' teaching, or His miracles, or even by the lifestyle that His disciples live. Conversion requires the work of the Holy Spirit. Why do you think this is the case? Have you ever fallen into the trap of trying to "argue" to someone into the Kingdom of God? The reading for the day is: Deuteronomy 16:1–17:20 Luke 9:7-27 Psalm 72:1-20 Proverbs 12:8-9

Appointed by the Romans as king of Judaea, King Herod's reign was defined by great architectural projects, canny diplomacy, and tyrannical behavior. Herod even appears as an unlikely and unlikeable character in the Christmas tale; the king who ordered the execution of children in an effort to kill Jesus. But did this really happen? Catholic Inspiration podcast available at https://amzn.to/3VxIeaU The Saint of the Day podcast at https://amzn.to/4cpIyyt The God Minute podcast at https://amzn.to/4aqynb0 Saint of the Day podcast with J. Atherholt at https://ancientfaith.com Saint of the Day podcast with M. Roberts at https://ourcatholicradio.org/programs/saint-day ENJOY Ad-Free content, Bonus episodes, and Extra materials when joining our growing community on https://patreon.com/markvinet SUPPORT this channel by purchasing any product on Amazon using this FREE entry LINK https://amzn.to/3POlrUD (Amazon gives us credit at NO extra charge to you). Mark Vinet's HISTORY OF NORTH AMERICA podcast: www.parthenonpodcast.com/history-of-north-america Mark's TIMELINE Video channel: https://youtube.com/c/TIMELINE_MarkVinet Website: https://markvinet.com/podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mark.vinet.9 Twitter: https://twitter.com/HistoricalJesu Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/denarynovels Mark's books: https://amzn.to/3k8qrGM Audio Credits: Saint of the Day podcast: The Holy Infants Killed for Christ’s Sake in Bethlehem (29dec2023), Greek Orthodox Deacon Jerome Atherholt and Ancient Faith Radio. Saint of the Day podcast with Mike Roberts (episode 243: 28dec2023 Feast Day of the Holy Innocents) Covenant Catholic Radio. The Saint of the Day podcast (28dec2023 S2 E181 Holy Innocents) Good Catholic and The Catholic Company. The God Minute podcast (Feast of Holy Innocents, 28dec2022) A Catholic devotional by the Congregation of the Mission - the Vincentians. Catholic Inspiration by Fr. Andrew Ricci Daily Mass: The Holy Innocents (28dec2023 Cathedral Rectory - Superior, WI. Audio excerpts reproduced under the Fair Use (Fair Dealings) Legal Doctrine for purposes such as criticism, comment, teaching, education, scholarship, research and news reporting.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“40 Now the sojourn of the children of Israel who lived in Egypt was 430 years. 41 And it came to pass at the end of the 430 years-on that very same day-it came to pass that all the armies of the Lord went out from the Land of Egypt.” Exodus 12:40-41the great escape of Exodus was not a random event, but a prophetic declarative promise for our own salvation “12 But the more they (Egyptians) afflicted them, the more they (Israelites) multiplied and grew”. Exodus 1:12Moses was born in a time when the powers at be (Pharaoh) tried to extinguish God's promised people by killing every male infant (Exodus 1:15) Like Moses, Jesus was born in a time when the powers at be (King Herod) tried to extinguish the promised messiah by killing every male infant (Matthew 2:13-16)“11Now it came to pass in those days, when Moses was grown, that he went out to his brethren and looked at their burdens. And he saw an Egyptian beating a Hebrew, one of his brethren. 12 So he looked this way and that way and when he saw no one, he killed the Egyptian and hid him in the sand.” Exodus 2:11-12“24 By faith Moses, when he became of age, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter, 25 choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God than to enjoy the passing pleasures of sin, 26 esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt; for he looked to the reward.” Hebrews 11:24-26Who being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; 7 rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. 8 And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death-even death on a cross!” Phil 2:6-8“Moses tried to do the Lord's work in man's wisdom and power and it didn't work”- David Guzik“23Now when he was forty years old, it came into his heart to visit his brethren, the children of Israel. 24 And seeing one of them suffer wrong he defended and avenged him who was oppressed, and struck down the Egyptian. 25 For he supposed that his brethren would have understood that God would deliver them by his hand, but they did not understand.” Acts 7:23-25“In Egypt, Moses learned to be somebody; In Midian, Moses learned to be nobody”- David Guzik.“23Now it happened in the process of time that the king of Egypt died. Then the children of Israel groaned because of the bondage, and they cried out; and their cry came up to God because of the bondage. 24 So God heard their groaning, and God remembered His covenant with Abraham, with Isaac, and with Jacob. 25 And God acknowledged them.” Exodus 2:23-25“6Moreover He said, ‘I am the God of your father-the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.' And Moses hid his face, for he was afraid to look upon God. 7 And the Lord said: ‘I have surely seen the oppression of My people who are in Egypt, and have heard their cry because of their taskmasters, for I know their sorrows. 8 So I have come down to deliver them out of the hand of the Egyptians, and to bring them up from that land to a good and large land, to a land flowing with milk and honey…9 Now therefore, behold, the cry of the children of Israel has come to Me, and I have also seen the oppression with which the Egyptians oppress them.10 Come now, therefore, and I will send you to Pharaoh that you may bring My people, the children of Israel, out of Egypt.'” Exodus 3:6-10“1Then the LORD said to Moses, ‘Now you shall see what I will do to Pharaoh. For with a strong hand he will let them go, and with a strong hand he will drive them out of his land.' 2 And God spoke to Moses and said to him: ‘I am the LORD. 3 I appeared to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, as God Almighty, but by My name LORD I was not known to them….6 Therefore say to the children of Israel: I am the LORD; I will bring you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians, I will rescue you from their bondage, and I will redeem you with an outstretched arm and with great judgments. 7 I will take you as My people and I will be your God. Then you shall know that I am the LORD your God who brings you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians.'” Exodus 6:1-2,6-7“Outstretched arms” means God's sovereign involvement to bring a complete deliverance and redemption“The plagues God brought against Egypt has a definite strategy and purpose. Each of them confronts and attacks a prized Egyptian deity. Not only did they bring punishment against Egypt, the plagues also answered Pharaoh's original question: Who is the Lord, that I should obey His voice to let Israel go? God used this series of plagues to glorify Himself (especially above the gods, of the Egyptians) and to give Pharaoh a chance to repent.”- David Guzik“An inscription by a Pharaoh on an ancient Egyptian temple gives the idea: ‘I am that which was, and is, and shall be, and no man has lifted my veil'. Pharaoh believed himself to be more than a man he considered himself a god, and the Egyptians agreed.”- David Guzik“ ‘I am the Alpha and the Omega', says the Lord God, ‘who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty.'” Rev 1:8PLAGUES vs EGYPTAIN GODS1)Water turned to blood - Hapi (God of Nile)2)Frogs from the Nile - Heket (goddess of fertility; head of frog)3)Lice from dust of earth - Geb (god over dust of the earth)4)Swarms of flies - Khepri (god of creation; head of fly)5)Death of cattle and livestock - Hathor (goddess of love; head of cow)6)Ashes turned to boils and sores - Isis (goddess of medicine and peace)7)Hail rained down in form of fire - Nut (goddess of the sky)8)Locusts sent from the sky - Seth (god of storms and disorder)9)3 days of complete/felt darkness - Ra (the sun god)10)death of the firstborn - Pharaoh (ultimate power of Egypt)“Pharaoh is grieved at the consequences of sin, but not sin itself”- David GuzikIn this Passover, “The blood of the lamb was essential to what God required. If an Israelite home didn't believe in the power of the blood of the lamb, they could sacrifice the lamb and eat it, but they would still be visited by judgement. If an Egyptian home did believe in the power of the blood of the lamb, and made a proper Passover sacrifice, they would be spared the judgement. An intellectual agreement with what God said about the blood was not enough; they actually had to do what God said must be done with the blood.” -David Guzik“God was manifest in the flesh…” 1 Tim 3:16“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only son, so that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have everlasting life” John 3:16“40...

“We love because He first loved us.” – 1 John 4:19Those six words beautifully capture the foundation of our relationship with God—we can only love and give because He first gave to us. Today, Sharon Epps joins us for a fascinating discussion on the generosity of women in the Bible.Sharon Epps is the President of Kingdom Advisors, FaithFi's parent organization. Kingdom Advisors serves the broad Christian financial industry by educating and equipping professionals to integrate biblical wisdom and financial expertise.The Women Who Provided for JesusLuke 8:1-3 records an often-overlooked detail:“Soon afterward, He went through cities and villages, proclaiming and bringing the Good News of the Kingdom of God. And the twelve were with Him, and also some women who had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities: Mary, called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out, and Joanna, the wife of Chuza, Herod's household manager, and Susanna, and many others, who provided for them out of their means.”This passage tells us three key things:These women had been healed by Jesus—physically, spiritually, or both.They supported Jesus' ministry financially out of their own wealth.Their generosity was a response of gratitude for what Christ had done for them.One of these women, Joanna, stands out in particular.Joanna: A Woman Transformed by JesusJoanna was the wife of Chuza, King Herod's household manager. Thus, she likely had significant wealth and lived a royal lifestyle. Yet, despite her status, she was weakened when she met Jesus. She needed healing, and her first act of generosity was actually receiving—not giving.This is a powerful reminder: Before we can give, we must first receive.What Does This Teach Us?Money alone doesn't solve all problems—Joanna had wealth but still needed Christ.Generosity starts with receiving—not just financially, but in all aspects of life.God uses people from all walks of life—even a woman in Herod's court—to fund Jesus' ministry.Receiving Before We GiveJoanna's story reminds us of an important biblical truth: we can only give what we have first received.1 Corinthians 4:7 asks:“What do you have that you did not receive?”The answer? Nothing.Everything—our breath, skills, love, wisdom, and financial resources—is a gift from God. We receive, then we give, creating a virtuous cycle of generosity that mirrors God's own generosity toward us.Three Key Questions to Consider:What have I received from Christ that enables me to give?Is my giving safe or sacrificial?What does my giving reveal about how well I've received from God?These questions challenge us to shift our perspective—to see giving not as an obligation but as an overflow of what we have already been given.The Motivation Behind Joanna's GenerosityWhy did Joanna give so generously? Gratitude.Later, in Luke 24, we find Joanna at Jesus' empty tomb. She was among the women who encountered the angels, remembered Jesus' words, and ran to tell the apostles.Her journey shows a progression:She received healing from Jesus.She financially supported His ministry.She proclaimed His resurrection.Her generosity wasn't just about money—it was about devotion. She gave because she loved Jesus deeply.Lessons in GenerosityAs we reflect on Joanna's story, here are some key takeaways we can walk away with: 1. Generosity is a JourneyOur relationship with Christ fuels our generosity. The deeper our love for Him, the more naturally we want to give.2. We Must Receive Before We Can GiveWe often think about generosity in terms of money, but we also receive:Life itself—the breath in our lungs.Skills and abilities—talents that allow us to work and earn.Love from God and others—which shapes our generosity.3. Giving is an Act of WorshipJoanna's giving wasn't transactional—it was an expression of extravagant love for Jesus. She gave freely because she had freely received.As we reflect on Joanna's story, let's ask ourselves:Do I truly recognize that all I have is from God?Am I giving out of safety or sacrificial love?Does my giving reflect how well I've received from Christ?These questions can reshape our perspective on generosity, helping us move from obligation to joyful, faith-driven giving.Joanna's story reminds us that generosity is not about wealth—it's about the heart. As we receive from Christ, we are called to pass it on—whether through finances, service, or sharing the gospel.May we, like Joanna, be conduits of Christ's love, reflecting gratitude, devotion, and generosity in all we do.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I have a term life insurance policy that I got when we renovated our house a few years ago. The premiums keep increasing, and we're now retired with no debt. Do I still need this policy?I have a 401(k) invested in high-risk options through Empower (formerly Prudential). The account performs well when the market is good but loses a lot when it's down. What are your thoughts on investing through Empower, and are there any other options I should consider for my 401(k)?I inherited a property that was deeded to me and the 'heirs of my body.' Do I need to create a will or a trust to transfer this property when I pass away properly?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's New Quarterly MagazineWisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money (Pre-Order)Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.

Worship as Spiritual Warfare Worship Review Two Greek words translated as worship in our English Bibles. Proskuneo – to bow, fall on your knees, make a request Example: Matthew 2:1-2 After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magifrom the east came to Jerusalem and asked, “Where is the […]

Welcome to the Christmas series! The magi arrive at the palace of King Herod, looking for the King of the Jews. Herod welcomes them with false-humility, smiling through his gritted teeth. Something isn't right. Sign up for special devotionals at StoriesoftheMessiah.com. As we dive deeply into iconic Bible heroes' enthralling narratives, we find more than just stories of faith and miracles. We discover a recurrent theme, a spiritual undertone that connects each tale to the grandeur of the Gospel. They're not just standalone legends; they're threads in a divine tapestry, weaving a story that foreshadows Jesus Christ, the ultimate hero, the promised Messiah who brings light to the darkest corners of history. For more Bible stories download the Pray.com app.  To learn more about Rabbi Schneider visit https://discoveringthejewishjesus.com/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

SEVEN VEILS MOVIE REVIEW John the Baptist was a total hottie. He had that wandering the desert skin tone and preaching the gospel six pack, and long flowing silky black hair. That's probably why Salome, the step daughter of King Herod, wanted to seduce and steal a kiss from him. Heads up, things didn't turn […]

SEVEN VEILS MOVIE REVIEW John the Baptist was a total hottie. He had that wandering the desert skin tone and preaching the gospel six pack, and long flowing silky black hair. That's probably why Salome, the step daughter of King Herod, wanted to seduce and steal a kiss from him. Heads up, things didn't turn […]

Did you know that Joseph Stalin could sing with perfect pitch? Or that he was so scared of his wife that he would hide from her in the bathroom? Did you know that Peter the Great liked to surround himself with naked dwarfs? Did you know that Catherine the Great—long smeared as a nymphomaniac—was actually a lovelorn monogamist? Or that King Herod's genitals once exploded with maggots? Most historians bore you with dry accounts of battles and treaties, and it's hard to remember any of it. But not Simon Sebag Montefiore, who writes 900 pages that you cannot put down. Sebag is one of the most important historians alive today. His many books, like Stalin: The Court of the Red Tsar, The Romanovs, and Catherine the Great & Potemkin are essential to understanding power, politics, revolution, dictatorships, and above all, human nature. While most of Sebag's books are biographies of people, Jerusalem is a biography of a city—a city, as he writes, that is “the house of the one God, the capital of two peoples, the temple of three religions, and the only city to exist twice in heaven and on earth.” The book takes you through Jerusalem's 3,000-year history, from King David to Bibi Netanyahu. It is a must-read. It has sold more than a million copies, and it has just been reissued in paperback. With the ceasefire deal underway in Israel and with Trump a few weeks into his second presidency, we could not think of a better person to talk to than Simon about this moment and how to understand it.  Header 6: The Free Press earns a commission from any purchases made through all book links in this article. If you liked what you heard from Honestly, the best way to support us is to go to TheFP.com and become a Free Press subscriber today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices