Podcasts about why jesus

In this episode, Dr. Greg and Fr. Colin Lomnitzer dive into the real St. Joseph—the man who quietly shaped Jesus' courage, work, identity, and tenderness far more than most people realize. For anyone wrestling with father wounds, questions about masculinity, or mission, this conversation offers a powerful and healing perspective.   Key Topics: The surprising ways Joseph reverses generations of wounded fatherhood stretching from Adam to Abraham The invitation to let Joseph father you where your own story carries hurt, fear, or mistrust Why Jesus needed a real mother and a real father—and what that means for your own healing The hidden "reparenting" offered through baptism and why Mary and Joseph matter for your emotional life The overlooked link between Joseph's example and how Jesus treated women in the Gospels Why the Church may be recovering a deeper understanding of Joseph right when the world needs fathers most Learn More: Connect with Fr. Colin Lomnitzer — Discover more about Fr. Colin's ministry accompanying newly-ordained priests. From the Desk of Fr. Lomnitzer (Substack) – Reflections, notes, and insights from life as a Catholic priest. Guardian of the Redeemer – St. John Paul II's apostolic exhortation on the person and mission of St. Joseph "Double Trinity" Painting – The artwork featured on Fr. Colin's ordination card  Consecration to Jesus through St. Joseph – A 44-day deep dive into the life and meaning of St. Joseph and Our Lady as they relate to our integrated human journey growing closer in union with Jesus Christ. Related episodes on fatherhood and masculinity: Ep. 163: Leading with Weakness: Authenticity in Fatherhood Ep. 248: The Hard Part about Being Dads and How to Do It Well Ep. 31: What Everyone Gets Wrong about St. Joseph  Understanding "Development of Doctrine" (Referenced in this Episode) – Learn more in Being Human Episode 250 Need help? Schedule a free CatholicPsych consultation Want to help? Learn more about our Certification in Professional Accompaniment   Follow Us on Socials: Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Twitter (X) | LinkedIn  

12-07-2025 - Why Jesus by Pastor Adam Bennett

In this episode, Petia breaks down the popular New Age idea of “Christ consciousness” and explains why it doesn't align with biblical Christianity. Learn what the New Age means by this term, why it can create confusion for believers, and what Scripture actually teaches about transformation, the Holy Spirit, and having the mind of Christ. --- ### **What You'll Learn** • What “Christ consciousness” means in the New Age  • Why it is *not* a biblical concept  • The difference between spiritual awakening and Holy Spirit transformation  • What the Bible teaches about the mind of Christ  • How to recognize subtle New Age beliefs that sound spiritual but are unbiblical  • Why Jesus is a Person, not a consciousness  --- ### **Key Scriptures** - 1 Corinthians 2:16 – The mind of Christ  - Romans 12:2 – Transformation by renewing of the mind  - 2 Corinthians 3:18 – Becoming more Christlike  - John 14:6 – Jesus as the way, the truth, and the life  --- ### **Call to Action** If this episode brought clarity for you, you're invited to join my **free online Bible study, Deeply Devoted** — a safe, Scripture-rooted community of women growing in truth, discernment, and intimacy with Jesus.  Click here to join us: **https://bit.ly/DeeplyDevotedBIBLEstudy**  Come study with us, ask questions, and build deep Christ-centered friendships!

Every year, Advent shows up with candles, wreaths… and, strangely enough, apocalyptic readings. And if you've ever thought, “Wait—why are we talking about the end of the world when we're gearing up for twinkle lights and baby Jesus?”—you're in good company.In this episode, I'm talking about why the church calendar always begins with the end. Why Jesus keeps bringing up apocalyptic moments. And why “apocalypse” doesn't really mean destruction—it's about transformation.I share a story about binge-watching House when my daughter Evelyn was a newborn (yes, really), and how a cliffhanger episode helped me understand what Advent is actually trying to teach us: We don't know every detail of what's ahead, but we do know how the story ends—with God gathering all things in love.And maybe that's why Martin Luther could say, “If I knew the world was going to end tomorrow, I'd still plant my apple tree today.” Because faith in an apocalyptic God isn't about fear—it's about hope. It's about trusting that God is already in the future, pulling us toward something good, something whole, something new.As we step into Bethany's Advent theme, The Beginning of Everything, I pray this episode helps you hear those apocalyptic texts not as doom, but as a promise: Something new is beginning. Something hopeful. Something God-shaped.Thanks for listening, and as always—stay in peace.Sunday School Remix is a new Together 4 Good series re-examining familiar Bible stories to uncover what they really tell us about faith, humanity, and grace today.

Proverbs 11:25 says, “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.”In today’s episode, Ash unpacks what it really means to live with an open hand — to offer your gifts, time, abilities and heart instead of holding everything tightly to yourself. As Christmas gets busy and life feels full, it’s easy to slip into self-protection, exhaustion or waiting for others to “pour into” us first. But this verse flips that mindset. God invites us to be the kind of people who refresh others — not out of pressure, but out of faith, obedience and love. In this episode, Ash explores: Why generosity is more than money — it’s a posture of the heart How making yourself available can bless people in ways you don’t expect The trap of waiting for others to water you first What to do when you’re spiritually tired or emotionally flat How refreshing others often brings the refreshment your soul needed Why Jesus is the ultimate picture of generosity Practical ways to bless others this Christmas without burning out If you’re feeling stretched, tired, or tempted to hold back, this conversation will help you rediscover the joy, lightness and spiritual refreshment that come from living generously.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why Jesus? Listen as we discuss why do you need Jesus. The wounds of the past, sins, and things you have done but regret. Forgive, receive forgiveness, allow God to heal your heart, and move on! Allow Jesus to heal, deliver, and provide for you a promised home in heaven for eternity! Listen for more!www.yournewlifeministries.org

Dr. Chris Croghan joins Scripture First to break down the many preaching moments found in this lectionary text about John the Baptist including: Why the wilderness is significant,The definition of repentance,The definition of the kingdom of heaven,Why Jesus calls the Pharisees and Sadducees a brood of vipers, And why you don't need to fear when you hear that the ax is lying at the root of the tree and Jesus has his winnowing fork in his hands.You don't need to make yourself into wheat. You need to receive a promise of forgiveness. CHALLENGE GRANTA Luther House of Study donor is sponsoring a challenge grant. If you sponsor one podcast episode by the end of the year, another podcast episode will be sponsored on your behalf. If you'd like to have your donation doubled, email Sarah Stenson at sarah@lhos.org or go to lutherhouseofstudy.org/donate CARE OF SOULS - ADDICTIONIn Care of Souls, a special mini-series podcast from Luther House of Study, Lutheran pastors and theologians come together to explore the deeply personal and pastoral task of preaching to and caring for those struggling with life's challenging situations: addiction, death, family disharmony, and more. Rooted in the theology of the cross and the Lutheran tradition of radical grace, this series offers both theological depth and practical guidance for pastors, church workers, and lay leaders.With conversations, real-life stories, and reflections from the front lines of ministry, Care of Souls equips listeners to enter the broken places of addiction not with easy answers, but with the crucified and risen Christ.Because in the end, it's not about fixing people—it's about preaching the Gospel.Listen to Care of Souls wherever you listen to podcasts or on the Luther House website: Care of Souls - Addiction GOSPEL Matthew 3:1-12 1 In those days John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness of Judea, proclaiming, 2 "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near." 3 This is the one of whom the prophet Isaiah spoke when he said, "The voice of one crying out in the wilderness: 'Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.'" 4 Now John wore clothing of camel's hair with a leather belt around his waist, and his food was locusts and wild honey. 5 Then the people of Jerusalem and all Judea were going out to him, and all the region along the Jordan, 6 and they were baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins. 7 But when he saw many Pharisees and Sadducees coming for baptism, he said to them, "You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? 8 Bear fruit worthy of repentance. 9 Do not presume to say to yourselves, 'We have Abraham as our ancestor'; for I tell you, God is able from these stones to raise up children to Abraham. 10 Even now the ax is lying at the root of the trees; every tree therefore that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. 11 "I baptize you with water for repentance, but one who is more powerful than I is coming after me; I am not worthy to carry his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. 12 His winnowing fork is in his hand, and he will clear his threshing floor and will gather his wheat into the granary; but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire." Support the showInterested in sponsoring an episode of Scripture First?Email Sarah at sarah@lhos.org or visit our donation page: lutherhouseofstudy.org/donate

In this week's Follow Up episode, Pastors Jack and Arlen dive deeper into John 8 — one of the most theologically dense and debated chapters in the New Testament. They discuss why Jesus says He is “the light of the world,” what it means that He uses the divine name “I AM,” and how to think about faith when people ask for more “proof.”They also address the famous passage of the woman caught in adultery — why it appears in some Bibles and not others — and why textual transparency actually strengthens rather than weakens our confidence in Scripture.Other themes include:• How assumptions distort our view of Jesus• Why every worldview relies on faith• How logic and experience work together• The tension of truth and grace• Why Jesus' clarity is actually compassionThis episode offers a grounded, pastoral, and thoughtful exploration of what Jesus claimed about Himself — and what that means for us today.

My hunch is that the whole Christmas thing began well before that starry night in Bethlehem. A long time before. Question is – how come God came up with it? IT'S HARD TO BELIEVE I have to tell you it Is hard to believe that we are on the home straight again – just turned that corner into December again – the end of another year. The shops are full of Christmas decorations. You know, it seems like just yesterday it was January and here we are, another one over – it's hard to believe. As I sat down this year to think about messages for December, you know, the whole Christmas, New Year thing, I just felt that this year, we need to take some time and start looking and talking about Christmas just a bit early. You know this whole rush, rush, rush thing that many of us go through and then in the middle of it all, in this clamber and noise and busyness, the end of the year, you hear ministers talking about the "real meaning of Christmas" – yea, right! I just want to get over the line; I just want to finish the year. Ever thought about this – the challenge for ministers and people like me is to talk about Christmas each year. In part there's a sense of, "Well, what do I say? I mean, it's Christmas – we all know the story; we all know the meaning." Do we, really? Rush, rush, rush, buy the turkey, the Christmas pantomime and then it's all over. And all the time you know, people are living lives that fall so short of, well, a full life; a satisfying life. Now sometimes people criticise me for saying things like that. "You religious people are always telling us that our lives fall short; you tell us something is missing; you tell us this and that". There's a tension between what I call the advertising industry view of the world, on the one hand and, you know, the glossy images of success we are all trying to live up to and the reality on the other. And it's not just me – there's a great song by Sting a few years ago called, "Message in a Bottle" – remember that one? This is how the lyrics start off: Just a castaway, an island lost at sea.Oh another lonely day and no one here but me. Oh more loneliness than any man could bear Rescue me before I fall into despair. I'll send you an SOS to the world I hope that someone gets my message in a bottle. And it finishes up like this: Walked out this morning, don't believe what I saw Hundred billion bottles washed up on the shore. Seems I'm not alone at being alone. Hundred billion castaways looking for a home. I'll send an SOS to the world I hope that someone gets my message in a bottle. It's a song that connected with a lot of people. It's a song that tells it just the way things are for so many people. It flips under that thin veneer of so called "success" – all those glossy, successful images the advertising industry used to get us to buy their stuff. And somehow, this song, "Message in a Bottle", speaks to the heart – it's real. So what are you saying, Berni, that we are all a bunch of losers? No, not that. Look around – there are so many people succeeding; doing amazing things: they're talented; their able; their committed – there's lots of good stuff happening in the world. Mixed up with lots of bad stuff too – it's always been that way. I guess though, I want to think for a moment about this whole "Message in a Bottle" thing. Is it true? Are there a whole bunch of lonely people out there? I was reading an article in the weekend newspaper the other day about the internet and blogging. The word 'blog' is short for 'weblog'. It's where people, mostly young, but plenty of not so young as well, get on line on the internet and they share their thoughts and their photos and their videos on this – it's like a personal billboard – for the whole world to see. How many people do you think there are on the internet, blogging – you know, people with their own personal blog sites? Over a hundred million! A hundred million – all sending out their 'message in a bottle' – all crying out to be noticed; all wanting to be significant. I asked my daughter – "what's it all about – I mean, you know, why do you do this blogging thing?" And she said it's all about how many friends you can have subscribing to your blog – whether it's on myspace.com or youtube or – it seems like this "message in a bottle" thing is happening in a way today, that Sting could never have imagined when he wrote that song a few years ago. Maybe you're not a blogger – I'm not – but you know what I'm talking about. There's this search for significance; looking for that place where, finally "I've found myself. I've discovered who I am. There's a deep sense of satisfaction about life and me and how I fit in." Well, often it's not so much about our circumstances but just about finding who we are and connecting and knowing why we are here and what our future is and where we're going. People are sending out their message in a bottle in the most amazing way. Sometimes it's through crime – it's about attention; about wanting to be noticed and needed. Yet the vast majority, I believe, live out life without ever really discovering who they are and why they're here and where they are going. Here we are at the beginning of December, hurtling towards Christmas. I know what you are thinking! 'Isn't it a bit too early for you to be talking about Christmas, Berni? Well not really – the shops have had their Christmas decorations up for weeks now. We are taking an early look at Christmas over these next few weeks because Christmas started well before Christmas; well before that starry night in Bethlehem two thousand years ago. The first Christmas started a long time before that. We know that Christmas probably wasn't in December because the shepherds were unlikely to be tending their flocks out by night in the middle of winter. And I guess, we all kind of know the Christmas story, the whole baby Jesus, born in a manger thing – Mary and Joseph and the donkey and the shepherds and the wise men from the East – all that stuff. But my hunch is the whole Christmas thing started well before that night in Bethlehem.   A RADICAL CONCEPT I was saying before that the whole Christmas thing started well before that night in Bethlehem. In fact, we know that it did. If you look through the Old Testament – if you've got a Bible, grab it because we are going to go there in a minute – the old Hebrew Scriptures, thirty nine books, written by different people over many centuries before Jesus was born. And the Old Testament contains a whole bunch of predictions or prophesies about Jesus – some are very, very specific, like: He would be born in Bethlehem, born of a virgin, of the tribe of Judah, the house of David – well over a hundred and that's a conservative estimate. It predicted how He would die; it predicted there would be soldiers gambling away His clothes; all sorts of things, things that Jesus would have found pretty hard to arrange for Himself, unless of course, He was who He says He was. Kind of a weird thing – what was God up to? Why are these predictions throughout the Old Testament about Jesus the Son of God? In fact, can I ask even a more direct question than that? Why Jesus at all? I mean why send Jesus His only Son to become a man and ultimately to die for you and me? Why not just forgive us and be done with it. I mean, I'm sorry to sound cynical, but why the theatrics? This is how I used to think. Not bad questions really. One of these places in the Old Testament that points forward to Jesus and shows us the shepherd heart of God happens in the Book of Ezekiel, chapter 34. If you've got a Bible, open it up; let's go to Ezekiel, chapter 34 and verse 11 – this is what it says: I myself will search for My sheep and look after them. As a shepherd looks after his scattered flock when he is with them, so I will look after My sheep. I will rescue them from all the places where they were scattered on a day of clouds and darkness. And again in verse 16: I will search for the lost and bring back the strays. I will bind up the injured and strengthen the weak but the sleek and the strong I will destroy. I will shepherd My flock with justice. There's this sense of the heart of a shepherd and you see it right through the Old Testament, over and over again, God talking about His shepherd heart; His heart to be in our midst. What if God saw all our bottles lying on that beach, like we heard in that song; the lyrics from "Message in a Bottle"? What if He heard the cry of our hearts? What if God always knew that the only way to still our hearts and satisfy our souls was for us to know Him? What if, well, what if Jesus is God's "Message in a Bottle" to us; to you and me? For me the constant theme of the Bible, from beginning to end, is God's heart to be in our midst. You see it over and over and over again. Remember the Exodus, when God heard the cry of His people who were oppressed in Egypt as slaves and He sends Moses to Pharaoh to tell Pharaoh, "Let My people go." And so eventually they flee and God protects them and they pass through the Red Sea and then they spend forty years in the wilderness. Let me ask you, where's God in all of this? Where's God in the wilderness? Come with me to Exodus, chapter 40 – the last chapter in the Book of Exodus – we'll have a look at verses 1 to 5. It says this: Then the Lord said to Moses, "Set up the Tabernacle or the Tent of the Meeting Place on the first day of the first month. Place the Ark of the Covenant in it and shield the Ark with a curtain. Bring in the table and set out what belongs on it, then bring in the lamp stand and set up its lamps. Place the gold alter of incense in front of the Ark of the Testimony and put the curtain at the entrance to the Tabernacle or the Tent. (The word "tabernacle" means "tent".) And again later in that chapter, beginning at verse 34, it says this: Then, when Moses had done all of these things, a cloud covered the Tent of the Meeting and the glory of the Lord filled the Tabernacle. Moses could not enter the Tent of Meeting because the cloud had settled upon it, and the glory of the Lord filled the Tabernacle. In all the travels of the Israelites, whenever the cloud lifted from above the Tabernacle, they would set out but if the cloud did not lift, they did not set out until the day that it lifted. So the cloud of the Lord was over the Tabernacle by day and fire was in the cloud by night in the sight of all the House of Israel during all their travels. See, all the other gods that the different nations worshipped were up on hills – they lived in temples. That's why the Old Testament talks about and condemns the high places because people had to go to those tin-pot little gods and idols up on the temples on hills and worshipped them – the people went to the gods. But the real God; the God of Israel – God wanted to be in the midst of His people. This notion was so radically different. I mean, we weren't there and so it's harder for us to appreciate how radically different God's approach is. And He was the only God who was like this. When they camped, the Tabernacle – the Tent of the Meeting; the Tent where God's presence resided – was right in the middle of them. There were twelve tribes of Israel – they would camp three to the north, three to the south, three to the east and three to the west. God was smack, bang in the middle. And you notice what it says here: In all the travels … (Exodus, chapter 40, verse 36) Notice how God uses "all": In 'all' the travels of the Israelites, whenever the cloud lifted from above the Tabernacle, they would set out but if the cloud did not lift, they did not set out until the day it lifted. So the cloud of the Lord was over the Tabernacle by day, fire was in the cloud by night in the sight of 'all' the House of Israel during 'all' their travels. That's why again, over and over in the Scripture, you read these words and you can read them with me here in Leviticus, chapter 26, verses 11 and 12. God says: I will put My dwelling place among you and I will not abhor you. I will walk among you and be your God and you will be My people. Please understand with me, how radical this is – how totally contrary it is to people's expectation about a god – how different the true God is from all the other gods that all the nations worship. Their concept was by and large of appeasing the gods so they wouldn't be punished. Here the God of Israel says, "I'm a God of relationship. I want to be with My people, on their journey, in their midst, all the time, where all the people can see Me." And then the whole of the rest of the story of the Old Testament is about Israel's struggle with God. That word "Israel" literally means "he struggles with God". Over and over again God sent His prophets to call the people back to Him and over and over again Israel rejects God and suffers the consequences. And for me the whole of the Old Testament is kind of screaming out, "IT AIN'T WORKING!" We can't hold up our end of this bargain – we need a different approach – and so it was.   IN THE FLESH Christmas is such a wondrous time and it's true for so many of us, it's easy to miss in the hurly burly of life. I wonder as you chew over the Scriptures we've looked at today how radical is it to you, this shepherd heart of God; this heart that God has to be in our midst? It's one thing to read about it, as God expressed it back then, but here and now? I don't know about you, but I find it easy to forget – to forget that God is on this journey with me. Let's look at Ezekiel's words again. Ezekiel, chapter 34, verse 14: I will tend them in a good pasture and on the mountain heights of Israel will be your grazing ground. There they will lie down in good grazing land and there they will feed in a rich pasture on the mountains of Israel. I, Myself will tend My sheep and have them lie down', declares the sovereign Lord. What's this "lying down" business? Have you ever asked that question? Well, it's shepherd language. See a shepherd knows that sheep will only lie down when they feel safe and when they feel at peace. And often you see it, the shepherd walks in their midst and they start to lie down because they feel safe – they don't feel like they've got to run away from danger. And for God in this language here in Ezekiel, He's saying, "By putting Myself in the midst of the people, I want to bring them peace and rest and joy in a good pasture, in good grazing land where they can feed on rich pasture." So we see God with this amazing heart to be smack, bang in the middle of our lives. And the logical extension of that, as He talks about it in the Old Testament, is He becomes one of us – flesh and blood; human. It's exactly what John writes – he called Jesus "The Word", the expression of who God is; God talking to us and telling us who He is, through Jesus. And the beginning of John's Gospel starts this way: In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning and through Him all things were made. Without Him nothing was made that has been made. But look just a bit further down in that same chapter – John, chapter 1, verse 14: Then the Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. We have seen His glory; the glory of the One and only who came from the Father full of grace and truth. See the next logical step is that God becomes man. And the word that John uses for "made His dwelling among us", means "tabernacle or tent". "The Word became flesh and tabernacled among us," is what John writes here. He pitched His tent right in our midst. What does that remind you of? The Exodus story, we looked at just before on the programme – God on our journey with us. It's come back to the radicalness of this thing that God did. The Son of God becomes the Son of Man. We'll look at that and what it says to us a bit more next week. But talk is cheap, right? Anyone can talk – God can talk but actions speak louder than words – that's what Christmas is about. Christmas is about the shepherd heart of God in action – it's a radical step. God slips quietly into this world in a stable – humble but not unnoticed. At Christmas God slips quietly into our lives and on our journey. How different would our lives look if we truly came to grips with the fact that God is on this journey with us? Maybe I'm thick, but whenever troubles or opposition or tension or temptation comes in my life, I find it very, very easy to forget that, through Jesus God is on this journey with me. Like all the other nations around Israel who had gods out there; gods that they had to go to; gods that they had to shout a distance to; gods that they had to appease, you and I when life gets hard, can be like them. You know what; the only thing that stops me from living my life under the yolk of that terrible misconception is that I spend a lot of time in God's Word. My Rock and my anchor – God is speaking to me every day, through His Word, saying to me, "I am on this journey with you. When I sent My Son to become a man, one of the prime things I was saying to you is that I have come to tabernacle in your midst – I have come to be in this place with you – I have come to walk the roads that you walk, to feel the pain that you feel, to deal with the temptations and the trials that you have to deal with." Jesus is God in our midst. That's why in Isaiah it says: Thou shall call Him Emmanuel – God is with us. And as Jesus walks with us and we walk with Him and we build that relationship, His heart is for us to lie down in good pasture, to have peace. My peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you. "I know how you feel, not just because I'm God but because I've walked the road ahead of you. I've dealt with all the things you have to deal with." I don't know about you, I wasn't born in a stable, but my Saviour was. I didn't have to flee King Herod as he tried to kill me, but my Saviour did. Come on! How different would our lives be if we lived them in the certain knowledge that this radical God took this radical step at Christmas? He stepped out of the comfort of heaven onto the dusty roads of Israel, to walk them ahead of me, to be my God, to be with me on my journey, to be with us in our midst.

Wonder Project Trial Here: https://watch.thewonderproject.com/Ruslan0:00 - Jack shares his testimony and encounter with the gospel10:02 - Reaction to The Jesus Revolution and reflections on Chuck Smith16:05 - Signs of revival or awakening in today's generation22:22 - Why some church leaders aren't called to be pastors35:00 - What is dispensationalism? A biblical explanation40:03 - God's covenant with Israel and the danger of replacement theology45:37 - Is modern-day Israel the fulfillment of biblical prophecy?50:26 - Romans 11: Israel's hardening and future redemption54:04 - Israel's politics, morality, and God's promises today1:00:32 - Balanced critique of Israel, Candace Owens, and antisemitism1:05:00 - Why Jesus' return is tied to Jerusalem and Zion1:10:00 - Evangelizing Jews and “forbidden” Old Testament verses1:18:00 - Chuck Smith, failed predictions, and date-setting dangers1:24:00 - Healthy eschatology: “Occupy until I come” mindset1:28:00 - Trump, Christian nationalism, and faith in politics1:34:00 - Immigration, Old Testament law, and real enforcement stories1:40:00 - Trump's character, policy vs. personality, and spiritual impact

Today's HeadlinesRemembering refugees as we give thanksWho will be next? Haitians face gang terror and fight to survive“Hope with skin on”: Why Jesus resonates deeply with Native communities

How to Sleep Peacefully in the Midst of the Storm (Mark 4:38) What do you do when the boat is filling with water, the wind is howling, and Jesus is… asleep on a pillow? BIBLE STUDY| MIRACLES OF JESUS SERIES.|THE FIFTH MIRACLE OF JESUS pt.9| WALKING BEFORE GOD, COVENANT, IDENTITY & ETERNAL WITNESS|JESUS WALKING ON WATER| CHIMDI OHAHUNA In this power-packed, faith-stirring message from Go Forward Conference 2025, we continue to continue to consider the theme: SO THAT IT WAS NOW FULL; one of the most confronting moments in the Gospels and uncover the secret that turned terrified disciples into storm-walking giants. In this teaching episode, you will discover: Why Jesus could sleep like a baby while the boat was literally sinking — and why He expects YOU to do the same. The difference between seeing the storm and seeing the Sailor (the revelation that silences every wave). How God's “silence” or “sleep” is never abandonment. it's the classroom for your greatest growth in the practice of His presence. The presence of Jesus is your ultimate insurance policy: if He's in the boat, the boat CANNOT sink. Sweet, peaceful sleep is not laziness it's high-level faith and a weapon that frustrates the devil every single time (Psalm 127:2, Eccl. 5:12). In God's Kingdom, we don't fight the storm — we sail on top of it. Nature itself bows when you know you're in the center of God's will. How to frustrate hell with more peace: refuse to give the devil the remote control of your mind, emotions, and sleep. The real reason God sometimes “hides” Himself — it's an invitation to pursue, to yearn, and to know Him more intimately (Isaiah 45:15, Prov. 25:2, Song of Solomon 5:2). When you truly know how much God loves you, you will never let Him rest until every promise is fulfilled in your life. This is not just another sermon on the storm — this is a divine upgrade in your consciousness of Christ's indwelling presence, His finished work, and His unshakable peace. If you've ever cried out, “Lord, don't You care that we are perishing?” — this message will shift you from panic to pillow, from fear to faith, from stressing to resting. No matter how fierce the storm looks right now, you WILL arrive at the other side — because the One who commands the wind and the waves is not just with you… He's asleep in your boat, perfectly at peace. Beloved, Your arrival is non-negotiable. Press play and learn how to sleep in the storm like Jesus did. Your peace is about to become a weapon. Any questions arising from this study can be submitted to chimdiohahunaministry@gmail.com. Check our bio to know how to give your love offerings to the ministry. Grace to you! Jesus is Lord. #CalmingTheStorm #FaithInTheStorm #JesusInTheBoat #AriseAndShine #BibleStudyPodcas

In this Thanksgiving episode, we dig into something most of us don't think about, but everyone around us feels: our countenance! How we carry ourselves, the look on our face, and the posture of our heart all reveal who we've been with… and where our hope rests.Using scriptures like Ezekiel 36:26, Exodus 33–34, Mark 6:56, 1 Corinthians 13, and Mark 1:35, we explore how God shapes our attitude and expression when we spend time in His presence. Moses' face literally changed after meeting with God, and ours can too.We talk about:• Why Jesus is relational and knows everything about us• Showing up during the holidays—even when it feels uncomfortable• Praying Scripture over people you're believing God to reach• How your presence at a family gathering might be someone's answered prayer• Why forgiveness is supernatural and why God empowers us to actually forget• How to guard your witness from holiday offenses• The quiet power of setting the tone for your day by meeting with the FatherThis episode is your reminder: you can do this. Someone is praying for one more moment with you this holiday season. Let your countenance reflect who you've been with. Let it shine with the goodness of God.Happy Thanksgiving!

Join hosts Rolf Jacobson and Kathryn Schifferdecker as they welcome Karoline Lewis, Luther Seminary's resident Gospel of John expert, for the first episode in John's gospel year. This timely discussion explores John 1:19-34, perfect for the first Sunday after Christmas and sermon preparation for the Narrative Lectionary. In this episode, the hosts unpack John the Baptist's crucial role as witness rather than baptizer in the Fourth Gospel. Unlike the synoptic gospels, John presents the Baptist not as Elijah or "the prophet," but as one who testifies to Jesus's identity. Caroline Lewis illuminates how John 1:29's declaration—"Behold, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world"—reveals a profound theological distinction: in John's gospel, "sin" isn't a moral category but describes separation from God. The conversation explores first-century Jewish apocalyptic expectations, drawing on scholarly work about messianic figures and prophetic forerunners. Discover why John's Gospel omits the heavenly voice at Jesus's baptism—because Jesus doesn't need confirmation of his identity. Instead, the baptism becomes John the Baptist's moment of witness, setting up the gospel's major theme: discipleship as testimony. Whether you're preparing Sunday's sermon, leading Bible study, or deepening your understanding of John's unique theological perspective, this episode offers rich insights into witness, identity, and relationship with God. Perfect for preachers, lay leaders, and anyone seeking to understand how John's Christmas season texts invite us to "behold" Emmanuel—God with us. Episode Highlights: * John the Baptist as witness rather than Elijah or "the prophet" * The meaning of "Lamb of God" in Johannine theology * Why Jesus's baptism in John serves a different purpose than in the synoptics * First-century Jewish messianic expectations and apocalyptic figures * "Sin" as separation from God versus moral failure * The "come and see" invitation throughout John's gospel TIMECODES: 00:00 Introduction to the Gospel of John 03:05 The Role of John the Baptist 05:50 Witnessing and Testifying to Jesus 09:12 Understanding Sin and Relationship with God

The conversation explores first-century Jewish apocalyptic expectations, drawing on scholarly work about messianic figures and prophetic forerunners. Discover why John's Gospel omits the heavenly voice at Jesus's baptism—because Jesus doesn't need confirmation of his identity. Instead, the baptism becomes John the Baptist's moment of witness, setting up the gospel's major theme: discipleship as testimony.Whether you're preparing Sunday's sermon, leading Bible study, or deepening your understanding of John's unique theological perspective, this episode offers rich insights into witness, identity, and relationship with God. Perfect for preachers, lay leaders, and anyone seeking to understand how John's Christmas season texts invite us to "behold" Emmanuel—God with us.Episode Highlights:* John the Baptist as witness rather than Elijah or "the prophet"* The meaning of "Lamb of God" in Johannine theology* Why Jesus's baptism in John serves a different purpose than in the synoptics* First-century Jewish messianic expectations and apocalyptic figures* "Sin" as separation from God versus moral failure* The "come and see" invitation throughout John's gospelTIMECODES:00:00 Introduction to the Gospel of John03:05 The Role of John the Baptist05:50 Witnessing and Testifying to Jesus09:12 Understanding Sin and Relationship with God

This Sunday, we're launching a new two-week series called Grateful — and it starts with a message that will open your eyes to what God's been doing behind the scenes in your life. In “The Grace You've Been Looking For,” you'll discover: How to see God's hand in your past instead of your pain Why Jesus gave thanks before the cross — and what that means for you today Simple ways to live in daily gratitude that brings freedom, peace, and joy How Communion reminds us that God's grace isn't just a story — it's something we can experience right now No matter where you've been or what you've walked through, there's a seat for you at the table of grace.

The Scripture readings are Isaiah 65:17-25; 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11; and Matthew 25:1-13. When it comes to the Last Day, Scripture doesn't answer every question. But you do know the, Who: Christ is returning, and He is returning for you. You know the Why: Jesus is returning to give you eternal life in the world to come. And that's enough.

The world disciples us to crave more—more money, more status, more security. But God calls His people to something radically different: contentment shaped by the character of Christ. This week, Pastor Nathan teaches from 1 Timothy 6 and throughout Scripture that the Lord—not our job, not the government, not our hustle—is the true source of all provision. Because God is generous and wise, His people must be shrewd stewards and radically generous.

In this transformative teaching, Ambassador Elisha unveils a powerful truth many believers have never been taught: Earth belongs to you, not just heaven

In this episode of the Jesus Everyday Podcast, Ethan Callison, Andrew McPheron, and Ken Nienke unpack John 7:37–52, where Jesus stands up on the climactic final day of the Feast of Booths and cries out:“If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink.”This is one of the most powerful scenes in John's Gospel — rich with Old Testament symbolism, dramatic tension, and the promise of the Holy Spirit.

In the powerful conclusion to our Resurrection series, Tim and Steve explore what it really means to live in light of Jesus' resurrection.This episode takes a hard look at the way Western theology has drifted into escapism—through rapture teaching, disembodied heaven myths, and even the use of violence in the name of Christ. They unpack the biblical and early church vision of new creation, how our glorified bodies will participate in it, and what happens when we die.

Mark 14:53-72 — What really happened when Jesus stood before the Sanhedrin, and why did His words trigger an immediate death sentence? In this episode, we break down the chaos inside the council chamber, the meaning of Jesus' declaration “I am,” and Peter's painful denial outside in the courtyard. Jesus' trial is the start of the most painful moments of Jesus' life. Today, we examine how the Sanhedrin twisted His words, why His silence mattered, and how His final response was an unmistakable claim to divine authority. We also follow Peter's emotional collapse—what drove him to deny Jesus, and what this moment still teaches us about failure, fear, and restoration. ⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 – Intro 01:01 – Why Mark 14 is so dense (and why slow study matters) 03:29 – Setting the scene: cold night, chaos, fear, and fatigue 05:15 – Peter follows Jesus into danger 06:02 – What Peter may have been thinking in the courtyard 08:17 – False witnesses and twisted testimony 10:23 – When people twist your words—how should Christians respond? 14:52 – Caiaphas confronts Jesus directly 15:37 – Why Jesus finally says “I am” 18:06 – The Sanhedrin's explosive reaction 19:03 – Mocking, spitting, beating, and what those actions meant culturally 22:11 – The brutality and chaos of the moment 24:54 – Peter's three denials begin 26:37 – Emotional collapse and the weight of guilt 27:21 – The warning and the hope in Peter's failure 29:31 – How God restores those who fall

In today's Grateful Rebels message, Pastor Ken Senchal takes us deep into one of the most misunderstood — and most life-changing — principles in Scripture: the biblical tithe. Long before there was a law… long before Israel… long before the church… God was teaching His people to honor Him with their first and best. Abel brought God the firstborn from his flock. Abram brought a tenth to Melchizedek out of honor and gratitude. Jacob declared that everything God gave him, he would return a tenth to the Lord. Tithing wasn't born from rules — it was born from relationship. In this message you'll learn: • Why God uses the tithe to reshape our heart, not deplete our wallet • Why the early church continued the principle of "firstfruits" even after the law • Why Jesus corrected the Pharisees on tithing — not to stop it, but to reset it • How tithing breaks the power of greed, fear, comparison, and self-entitlement • How generosity positions your life under God's blessing • And why the tithe is still divinely blessed today This message isn't about what God wants from you — it's about what God wants for you. Experience the freedom that comes from trusting God first.

Luke LeFevre has been in rooms where God showed up in unexpected ways. From studying historic revivals like the 1950s Hebrides awakening to witnessing Saddleback Church's sacred assembly firsthand, he's watched a pattern emerge—one that suggests we're entering a decades-long season of spiritual renewal in the West.In this episode, Luke shares:Why Gen Z is attending church more than any other generation.The prophetic word he received while flying home from Scotland that changed everything for Saddleback.What Duncan Campbell's Hebrides revival teaches us about holiness and awakening today.Why Jesus' words to the church at Ephesus might be the most relevant message for Western churches right now.His bold prayer for 100 million people to choose to follow Jesus in North America.If you're a pastor or church leader who's been quietly contending for more—this conversation is for you.Links:Website: https://innovativechurchleaders.org/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InnovativeChurchLeaders Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/InnovativeChurchLeaders/ Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/catalyzingcommunity/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/innovativechurchleaders LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/innovative-church-leaders/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@innovativechurchleaders Eric Bryant Website: https://ericbryant.org/ Eric Bryant Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ericmichaelbryant/ Eric Bryant Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ericbryant/ Eric Bryant LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-bryant-397003172/ Eric Bryant X: https://x.com/ericbryant Apple Podcasts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-post-christian-podcast/id1509588357 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Spotify: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/6ZeQIrzr2tCMyq1VdwxGNn ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

In this Straight Bible study, we break down Jude 8–10 — one of the most intense and misunderstood passages in the New Testament.Jude warns about “filthy dreamers” who defile the flesh, despise dominion, and reject spiritual authority. In this episode, Matt, Top, and The Raven cross-reference Matthew 23, Titus, Hebrews 12, and 2 Peter to show how Jude exposes false teachers, fake spirituality, and modern church culture that looks holy on the outside but is “full of dead men's bones.”We dig into:

This week at Venture, Don Ross continued our Journey Through Ephesians series with a powerful and challenging message from Ephesians chapter 4:1–16. Speaking into the heart of Paul's words from prison, Don reminds us that unity is our calling — not uniformity, but a shared commitment to the mission of Christ. In a divided world, the church shines brightest when we walk in humility, gentleness, patience, and love. Don also unpacks the gifts of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, explaining how every believer is uniquely equipped to build up the body of Christ. We are not spectators — we are contributors. As each of us steps into obedience, the church grows stronger, healthier, and more unified. This message calls us to maturity, to bold faith, and to using our gifts for the sake of the Kingdom. ⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome to Venture Church Online00:21 – Don Ross opens the message00:43 – The early days of Venture: “It'll never take… and here you are.”01:23 – Introduction to Don's network role and ministry02:02 – Don's book resources03:02 – Opening prayer03:10 – The city of Ephesus and why it mirrors Seattle03:37 – The three themes of Ephesians04:00 – Paul's perspective writing from prison04:24 – Why God uses difficult circumstances05:17 – “God allows situations for your good — and others' good.”06:16 – Ephesians 4:1–2 — living worthy of our calling06:50 – Unity in a divided world07:42 – Unity ≠ agreement, unity = shared mission08:26 – Jesus calls Simon the Zealot and Matthew together09:31 – Unity above politics10:18 – You are a citizen of heaven10:33 – Make every effort to keep the unity11:00 – The seven “ones” of unity12:01 – One Father: approaching God with intimacy13:02 – Why Jesus taught us to pray “Our Father”13:45 – One baptism explained14:05 – Baptism in the Holy Spirit14:27 – The power needed to walk in unity15:16 – Water baptism: going public with your faith15:40 – Three types of spiritual gifts16:04 – Gifts of the Father (Romans 12)17:00 – Examples: leadership, teaching, giving18:17 – Gifts of the Spirit (1 Corinthians 12)18:39 – The Holy Spirit activates the gifts19:15 – A story of healing and obedience19:38 – Gifts of the Son (Ephesians 4)20:09 – Christ's ascension and the giving of gifts21:14 – Christ descending and ascending22:10 – The five-fold ministry: apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, teachers23:04 – What apostles and prophets do today24:44 – The call of the evangelist25:28 – Evangelism in everyday life26:30 – The role of the pastor — equipping, not replacing27:13 – Obedience: stepping out when the Spirit prompts28:16 – No longer infants tossed by every wind of teaching29:05 – Speak the truth in love30:04 – Every supporting ligament: everyone has a role30:38 – Are you contributing… or consuming?31:22 – Producing fruit vs. being a “sucker” branch31:59 – Response: stepping into obedience32:35 – Prayer33:14 – Closing and next steps33:39 – Don's book table + building expansion reminder33:59 – Thank you for joining Venture Online

Discover the raw truth behind one of the most intense exorcisms in the Gospels. In Mark 9:14-29, Jesus confronts a vicious demon tormenting a boy from infancy—throwing him into fire and water to kill him. The disciples fail. The father wavers. Jesus acts with sovereign authority. But what really angered Jesus wasn't the father's doubt—it was the disciples' self-reliant unbelief.

Discover why the world is not as it seems through a stunning surfing revelation and Jesus' shocking prophecy about Jerusalem's magnificent Temple. In this powerful Pentecost sermon from Grace Cathedral, San Francisco, Dean Malcolm Clemens Young unveils how God's reality of love and joy lies hidden beneath the surface of worldly power—and what this means for us today.  What You'll Discover:  ✅ The surfing moment that revealed paradise hidden in the ordinary gray world   ✅ How Jerusalem's dazzling Temple—covered in gold and silver—seemed permanent but was destined for destruction   ✅ What "apocalyptic" literature really means: an unveiling of hidden truth, not just disaster predictions  ✅ Why Jesus contrasted the wealthy donors with the poor widow who gave everything   ✅ How the early church survived as an illegal religion facing persecution for refusing to worship Roman emperors   ✅ The revolutionary nature of early Christian communities that welcomed everyone equally—slaves and free, men and women, rich and poor   ✅ How the Eucharist became a radical act of love that upended Roman social hierarchy   ✅ Why theologian Karl Barth said Jesus' whole mission is to bring joy—even before faith   ✅ The connection between enduring suffering and gaining your soul   ✅ What Ingathering Sunday teaches us about rejecting the rule of "the strong do what they can and the weak suffer what they must"  This message offers hope for anyone seeking to see beyond surface appearances to God's deeper reality of transformation and love.  About This Sermon:  Preached: November 16, 2025, Location: Grace Cathedral, San Francisco, California Service: 23 Pentecost (Proper 28C, Track 1), 11 am. Eucharist | Ingathering Sunday Scripture: Isaiah 65:17-25, 2 Thessalonians 3:6-13, Luke 21:5-19 Preacher: Malcolm Clemens Young, Dean  Related Topics: Apocalyptic literature, Jerusalem Temple destruction, early church persecution, Christian martyrs, Roman persecution, Eucharist history, social justice, Karl Barth theology, Christian joy, endurance and suffering, Ingathering Sunday, biblical prophecy, Luke Gospel, new heavens and new earth, radical equality, counter-cultural Christianity, religious freedom, immigrant rights, dignity for all, Grace Cathedral sermons 

Ever wondered what Jesus was really facing in the Garden of Gethsemane? It wasn't just death—it was something infinitely heavier. In this powerful Bible study, we walk through Matthew 26:36-56, exploring Jesus's darkest hour and the moment Judas betrayed him with a kiss.What You'll Discover:* Why Jesus sweat drops of blood in the garden (and what that reveals about his humanity)* The real meaning of “the cup” Jesus was about to drink* How to actually fight temptation (watch AND pray—not just one or the other)* Why Judas's greeting was one of the most disrespectful acts in history* What “speaking the truth in love” really means (and how it gets weaponized)* Why Jesus didn't call down 12 legions of angels to save himselfThis Episode Addresses:* The false teaching that Jesus didn't have a real body* Why your resolutions aren't enough to keep you from falling away* How Jesus empathizes with every weakness you face* The weight of what Christ actually suffered for you* Why the Garden of Gethsemane is called “the garden of crushing”Support Amen Podcast: We're 100% ad-free and sponsorship-free, running entirely on your generous donations. With Giving Tuesday coming up on December 2nd, please consider supporting our ministry:* Website: amenpodcast.com* Ways to Help Us Grow:

Ever wondered what Jesus was really facing in the Garden of Gethsemane? It wasn't just death—it was something infinitely heavier. In this powerful Bible study, we walk through Matthew 26:36-56, exploring Jesus's darkest hour and the moment Judas betrayed him with a kiss.What You'll Discover:* Why Jesus sweat drops of blood in the garden (and what that reveals about his humanity)* The real meaning of “the cup” Jesus was about to drink* How to actually fight temptation (watch AND pray—not just one or the other)* Why Judas's greeting was one of the most disrespectful acts in history* What “speaking the truth in love” really means (and how it gets weaponized)* Why Jesus didn't call down 12 legions of angels to save himselfThis Episode Addresses:* The false teaching that Jesus didn't have a real body* Why your resolutions aren't enough to keep you from falling away* How Jesus empathizes with every weakness you face* The weight of what Christ actually suffered for you* Why the Garden of Gethsemane is called “the garden of crushing”Support Amen Podcast: We're 100% ad-free and sponsorship-free, running entirely on your generous donations. With Giving Tuesday coming up on December 2nd, please consider supporting our ministry:* Website: amenpodcast.com* Ways to Help Us Grow:

We live in a world obsessed with signs—looking for confirmation, direction, and meaning. But what if we're reading them all wrong?In this episode, Pastor David Buchs explores how Scripture teaches us to interpret the signs God gives—not through superstition or self-confirmation, but through faith in the one true sign that matters: the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.Drawing from the story of the wise men and the Gospel of John's “seven signs,” Pastor Buchs contrasts those who seek miracles for their own sake with those who follow them to their true destination—Christ Himself.You'll hear:Why signs are meant to point us forward, not keep us stuck.How even the disciples missed what the temple and miracles were really about.Why Jesus' resurrection is the only sign you'll ever need.What it means to become a sign—reflecting Christ's light in your daily life.

Ever wonder why Jesus didn't recruit from the religious elite? In this powerful episode of Raising The Standard, Josh Khachadourian breaks down the 5 strategic traits Jesus looked for in His disciples—and why these same characteristics are essential for Kingdom-driven men today.Jesus didn't go after scholars or theologians. He walked straight to the marketplace and chose builders, business owners, and risk-takers with calloused hands and the courage to bet everything on a moment's notice. These weren't random choices—they were strategic decisions that reveal what Christ needs in men who will advance His Kingdom.In this episode, you'll discover:✅ Why Jesus recruited BUILDERS who owned businesses, homes, and had families (and why you need to be building something right now)✅ The shocking truth about discretionary time and money—why the disciples could leave their businesses for 3 years and what that means for your financial stewardship✅ How community experience qualified the disciples for Kingdom work (and why isolation is disqualifying you from your assignment)✅ Why high risk tolerance was non-negotiable for fishermen on the Sea of Galilee—and why playing it safe is the riskiest move you can make✅ The power of swift, high-risk decision making—why the disciples dropped their nets immediately and what's holding you back from decisivenessThis episode is for you if you want:- Biblical masculinity principles that create real transformation- Strategic insight into Jesus' leadership and disciple selection- Practical coaching questions to challenge your current trajectory- Tools to step into your full Kingdom assignment- To understand what qualifies a man for greater responsibility in God's KingdomPowerful coaching questions inside:- What are you building right now that Jesus could point to?- Do you have margin? Could you step away if God called you today?- Who's in your corner holding you accountable?- Where are you playing it safe instead of stepping into risk?- What decision are you avoiding that God has already spoken to you about?Josh Khachadourian is the author of "Kingdom Driven: The Definitive Guide for How Driven Christian Men Can Dominate In Life" and founder of the Standard 59 Mastermind—a brotherhood of Kingdom-driven men connecting with God, mastering their minds, multiplying their finances, and taking dominion.CONNECT WITH JOSH:

What if Judas wasn't just a betrayer, but the first to politicize Jesus? Judas's story exposes a much older problem: the temptation to make Jesus “fit” the system. Domenic Scarcella (author of the book and Substack Good Neighbor, Bad Citizen) returns to argue that Judas tried to make the Messiah more respectable to rulers, trading costly faithfulness for public influence. From the temple clashes of Holy Week to today's culture wars, they trace how disciples drift when we ask Jesus to fit the system instead of following Him out of it.  Domenic explains why anti-Christ means impostor (not merely opponent) and how post-Constantine Christianity flipped from persecution to privilege, and why coercion never appears in Jesus' toolkit for discipling nations. From Caesar to modern politics Domenic and Craig trace how compromise creeps in when disciples trade the cross for influence,and faithfulness for respectability.  Constantine's empire did to the Church's soul, and how grace keeps the Gospel alive even when the Church gets it wrong. “Judas didn't hate Jesus…he just wanted Him to be more compatible with the government.” If you've ever wondered what it means to follow Jesus in a world addicted to power, this conversation will challenge and comfort you. The Kingdom of God still runs on love, not control.  We cover: Judas was the “normal” disciple, and that's what makes him dangerous The difference between Antichrist and Contra Christ (imposter vs. opponent) Why Jesus never used coercion or political force How Constantine flipped Christianity from persecution to privilege Hope for the remnant: good neighbors, bad citizens under “No King but Christ”  

In Mark 14, Jesus and his disciples go to the Mount of Olives to pray. Here, Jesus shares his burdens with 3 of his closest disciples and then goes on to pray a heartbreaking yet awe-inspiring prayer. What happened here, and what can we learn from this moment? Join us as Carlos and Dallas dig through Mark 14:26-42 together. 00:00 – Introduction and recap of last week's episode (Communion and reflection) 01:22 – Making Scripture personal and immersive 02:06 – Preparing for the heavy but hopeful journey ahead Mark 14:26–28 – Jesus and the Mount of Olives 02:33 – Reading Mark 14:26–28 02:55 – Setting the scene: the late-night walk to Gethsemane 04:07 – What hymn were they singing? (Psalms as worship) Mark 14:27–29 – “You will all fall away” 04:59 – Reading Mark 14:27–29 05:16 – Jesus references Zechariah 13:7 06:05 – How the disciples must have felt hearing they would fall away 07:32 – The hope in Jesus' words despite the warning 08:28 – Lessons about control, faith, and God's plan in hardship Mark 14:30–31 – Peter's Declaration 11:04 – Reading Mark 14:30–31 11:23 – Peter insists, “I will not deny you” 12:01 – Responding to failure and restoration after falling short 13:12 – Helping others move past spiritual failure Mark 14:32–34 – Jesus' Sorrow in Gethsemane 15:29 – Reading Mark 14:32–34 16:17 – Why Jesus only brought Peter, James, and John 17:17 – Leadership, trust, and knowing who to bring close 19:39 – Lessons for ministry leadership and accountability Mark 14:35–36 – “Not My Will, But Yours” 21:33 – Reading Mark 14:35–36 22:23 – The agony of submission and the meaning of “Abba, Father” 23:41 – Choosing obedience in suffering 24:05 – Developing faith to do the hard things 27:09 – The ripple effect of obedience and purpose in pain Mark 14:37–38 – Watch and Pray 28:07 – Reading Mark 14:37–38 28:26 – Jesus finds the disciples asleep 29:19 – How prayer helps us resist temptation 30:24 – Jesus' compassion even in disappointment Mark 14:39–42 – The Betrayal Approaches 31:42 – Reading Mark 14:39–42 32:27 – The disciples' weakness vs. Jesus' strength 33:09 – Encouragement for the persecuted early church 34:26 – Grace for our human failures Closing 35:12 – Final thoughts: grace, restoration, and hope 35:33 – Invitation to connect and visit The Healing Place ( www.thpshreveport.com )

In this episode of the Jesus Everyday Podcast, Ethan Callison and Andrew McPheron open John 7:14–24, where Jesus steps into the temple during the Feast of Booths and teaches with divine authority — without any formal credentials. The religious leaders are shocked: “How does this man have learning, when he has never studied?”Jesus responds not with defensiveness, but with truth: “My teaching is not mine, but His who sent me.”

Why Jesus wants us to invite those who cannot repay - Fr. Lucas Laborde. Click here for today's readings.Have you verified this spiritual law, that going beyond your comfort zone helps your love grow in quality? How is Jesus challenging you to love in a selfless way?

What does it look like to worship Jesus when everyone around you thinks you're wasting your time?In Matthew 26:1-13, we see two opposite responses to Jesus. Religious leaders plot His death in secret, thinking they're in control. But Jesus knows exactly when He'll die—on Passover, according to the Father's plan. Then there's Mary, who pours out expensive perfume on Jesus in extravagant worship. The disciples call it wasteful. Jesus calls it beautiful.Mary's name means three things: rebellious, bitter, and beloved. And if we're going to follow Christ, we need to be like Mary—rebelling against evil, making people bitter with our worship, and knowing we're deeply loved by God.In this episode, we break down:* Why Jesus was in control even when His enemies thought they had the upper hand* What Mary's extravagant worship teaches us about loving Jesus* How to keep worshiping even when people around you don't understand* The connection between knowing you're beloved and living boldly for ChristIf you're facing opposition, persecution, or people who think your faith is “too much,” this message is for you.

What does it look like to worship Jesus when everyone around you thinks you're wasting your time?In Matthew 26:1-13, we see two opposite responses to Jesus. Religious leaders plot His death in secret, thinking they're in control. But Jesus knows exactly when He'll die—on Passover, according to the Father's plan. Then there's Mary, who pours out expensive perfume on Jesus in extravagant worship. The disciples call it wasteful. Jesus calls it beautiful.Mary's name means three things: rebellious, bitter, and beloved. And if we're going to follow Christ, we need to be like Mary—rebelling against evil, making people bitter with our worship, and knowing we're deeply loved by God.In this episode, we break down:* Why Jesus was in control even when His enemies thought they had the upper hand* What Mary's extravagant worship teaches us about loving Jesus* How to keep worshiping even when people around you don't understand* The connection between knowing you're beloved and living boldly for ChristIf you're facing opposition, persecution, or people who think your faith is “too much,” this message is for you.

What if courage doesn't come from standing alone—but from standing together?In this message from Esther 4:13–17, our Discipleship Director, Matt Fucarino, teaches that courage shows up in community. When Esther faced an impossible choice—to risk her life before the king or remain silent—she didn't do it alone. God surrounded her with Mordecai and an entire community fasting and praying for her.Even though God's name isn't mentioned once in Esther's story, His presence is everywhere. The same is true for us—His grace meets us right where we are, and His people help us stand when life feels overwhelming.In this sermon, you'll learn:How courage grows when we walk with othersWhy vulnerability and community go hand in handHow God uses ordinary people to do extraordinary thingsWhy Jesus is the true and better Esther—who risked it all for our rescueWhat it means to find hope, healing, and strength togetherKey Scriptures:- Esther 4:13–17 — “For such a time as this.”- Philippians 3:20 — “We are citizens of heaven.”- 2 Corinthians 5:20 — “We are Christ's ambassadors.”- Luke 9:23 — “Take up your cross daily and follow Me.”Search Keywords:Esther sermon, courage and community, for such a time as this, Pastor Matt Huff, TNLC sermons, forgotten promises series, finding courage in hard times, God's purpose in pain, faith and friendship, biblical communityYou might feel far from home—but God has placed you exactly where you can make the biggest difference.Like, Subscribe, and share this message with someone who needs the courage to trust God and lean on community.

What if courage doesn't come from standing alone—but from standing together?In this message from Esther 4:13–17, our Discipleship Director, Matt Fucarino, teaches that courage shows up in community. When Esther faced an impossible choice—to risk her life before the king or remain silent—she didn't do it alone. God surrounded her with Mordecai and an entire community fasting and praying for her.Even though God's name isn't mentioned once in Esther's story, His presence is everywhere. The same is true for us—His grace meets us right where we are, and His people help us stand when life feels overwhelming.In this sermon, you'll learn:How courage grows when we walk with othersWhy vulnerability and community go hand in handHow God uses ordinary people to do extraordinary thingsWhy Jesus is the true and better Esther—who risked it all for our rescueWhat it means to find hope, healing, and strength togetherKey Scriptures:- Esther 4:13–17 — “For such a time as this.”- Philippians 3:20 — “We are citizens of heaven.”- 2 Corinthians 5:20 — “We are Christ's ambassadors.”- Luke 9:23 — “Take up your cross daily and follow Me.”Search Keywords:Esther sermon, courage and community, for such a time as this, Pastor Matt Huff, TNLC sermons, forgotten promises series, finding courage in hard times, God's purpose in pain, faith and friendship, biblical communityYou might feel far from home—but God has placed you exactly where you can make the biggest difference.Like, Subscribe, and share this message with someone who needs the courage to trust God and lean on community.

We were made for more — not more stuff, not more status, but more of Jesus. In this message from Pastor Nick Tallo, we explore what it really means to live generously and trust God with every part of our lives.Through Scripture, personal stories, and practical truth, Pastor Nick reminds us that generosity isn't about what God wants from us, but what He wants for us. When we live open-handed, we reflect the heart of a God who gave everything for us through Jesus.This message is part of our Made for More series — a two-year journey of faith and generosity rooted in Ephesians 3:20:“Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine…”In this sermon, you'll learn:Why Jesus talked about money more than almost any other topicHow generosity transforms our hearts and prioritiesWhat it looks like to trust God with our finances and futureHow giving is not an obligation, but an invitation to grow in faith

71% of Americans admit they're losing sleep over money—but Jesus already gave us the cure in the most famous sermon ever preached. In this episode, Bob and Linda unpack the surprising connection between mammon, anxiety, and misplaced treasure—and share the one simple prayer that can break financial fear and open the door to God's peace and provision. They walk through Matthew 6:19–34, revealing how birds and lilies understand something most believers forget: your value isn't in what you own—it's in who owns you. What You'll Learn: The hidden link between serving mammon and constant money stress Why Jesus' words in Matthew 6 are a direct cure for financial anxiety The "treasure principle" that keeps peace and provision flowing How comparison steals your provision (and how to stop) A practical, Biblical step you can take today to renounce financial fear Scripture References (NLT): Matthew 6:19–34 — "You cannot serve both God and money." Philippians 4:6–7 — "Don't worry about anything; pray about everything." Genesis 8:22 — "Seedtime and harvest will never cease."   Watch this episode on our SeedTime Money Podcast YouTube channel! (https://youtu.be/BkqokuEOHM8)   BONUS: Ever dreamt of hanging out with us for 6 weeks in your small group or church? Head to https://seedtime.com/true for details or shoot us a DM on Instagram (http://instagram.com/seedtime). If you haven't checked out our best-selling book Simple Money, Rich Life (https://seedtime.com/smrl/), we think you'll love it. It was named the 2022 Book of the Year by ICFH and has over 1,000 5-star reviews on Amazon, and is best described as "a money book for people who don't read money books."  You can take it for a test drive for FREE at https://SeedTime.com/sample where you can download chapter 1 of the audiobook, grab the 1st 2 chapters of the ebook version, and even get the 5-week book study companion guide.   

Plugging into the Right Power   Rasool Berry   Corinthians 2:1-5   Why Jesus is the only plug we need.   Give to support the ministry of Renaissance Church: https://renaissancenyc.com/give   Keep up with Renaissance by filling out a connection card: https://renaissancenyc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/5/responses/new

In this episode of TheJesus Every Day Podcast, Pastors Andrew McPhheron,  Matt Thieman, and Josh Horne continue our journey through the Gospel of John, exploring John 7:1–13 — where Jesus' identity and mission meet family tension, public skepticism, and divine timing.Join the conversation as the pastors unpack:The surprising reality of Jesus' unbelieving brothers and what it teaches us about faith.The rich background of the Feast of Booths (Tabernacles) — one of Israel's most joyful celebrations — and how Jesus fulfills its deepest meaning.Why Jesus said, “My time has not yet come,” and what that reveals about living on God's timeline, not our own.The challenge of following a Savior who lovingly confronts sin and exposes the darkness of the world.How this passage stirs a deeper craving to know Jesus — the true source of living water — through Scripture, prayer, and obedience.From historical insight to practical reflection, this episode will help you see how every word and action of Jesus points to God's redemptive plan.

We trace the brief, strange story of Melchizedek in Genesis 14 and show how Hebrews 7–8 uses it to reveal Jesus as the eternal High Priest who brings a better covenant. The heart-level shift from law to life leads to a simple challenge: give God not a tenth, but your whole self.• Melchizedek's role and meaning in Genesis 14• Why Jesus' priesthood surpasses Levi's• Once-for-all sacrifice versus daily offerings• Earthly copies versus the true heavenly sanctuary• New covenant promised by Jeremiah 31• God's law written on hearts, not stone• Practical surrender under the new covenantWhat are you holding back? That's the thinking out loud thought for the daySend Mike a quick message! (If you seek a reply, instead please contact through Outloudbible.com) Support the showCheck out outloudbible.com for helpful study resources, and to discover how to bring the public reading of God's word to your church, conference, retreat, or other event.

As women, we often have a difficult time calling ourselvesby the right name. This might be due to how we have been treated in life, our own woundedness, or just an overall lack of understanding about who we are and whose we are. Have you ever caught yourself referring to yourself as dumb, stupid, fat, clumsy, or worse? I can assure you that the Creator of theUniverse calls you many beautiful names. There is an amazing story in the Gospels that describes awoman who undoubtedly felt less than adequate or valuable in any way. However, Jesus calls her "Daughter of Abraham," a name that had never been used or heard before. This was no mistake, and certainly deserves a deeper look. Women are so multi-faceted and wear so many hats, yet in all of that, wecan easily lose our identity, and our REAL name. Listen in as Tiffany Jo Baker speaks with Rosie DiBianca, author of the book, He Calls Me Daughter. Together, they will discuss the true meaning of the name "Daughter of Abraham."Listen in for: How we might use names for ourselves that are untrue Why Jesus singled out the women in scripture What our Heavenly Father REALLY thinks of us as women How believing what God calls us can change ourrelationship with Him and outlook on life Favorite Quotes: "Daughter is a term of endearment, daughter is a term of inclusion, and of being beloved." - Rosie DiBianca "When other people see us, hear us...that's the ministry of Jesus right there." - Rosie DiBianca "The Bible is not just a text, it's active, it's living, it's the sword of the Spirit." - Tiffany Jo Baker Favorite Scripture: "The Lord answered him, “You hypocrites! Doesn't eachof you on the Sabbath untie your ox or donkey from the stall and lead it out to give it water? Then should not this woman, a daughter of Abraham, whom Satan has kept bound for eighteen long years, be set free on the Sabbath day fromwhat bound her?” - Luke 13:15-1 To find more information about Rosie DiBianca, please followher at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61581059926580. To order her book, visit https://amzn.to/3JpOH3U.*If you're looking for perfectly polished people or podcast,this isn't for you. We're real people, with real good information, and a really great God. *Want timely words, resources and episodes delivered rightto your inbox to help you fuel and fulfill your faith journey? Simply subscribe today to never miss an episode at https://www.tiffanyjobaker.com/subscribe (don't worry, you won't get spam or excessive emails) Don't miss the next Tiffany Jo Baker Podcast episode as wecontinue to help you GET FREE, LIVE FULL & THANK GOD! You can watch on YouTube and https://www.tiffanyjobaker.com/tiffany-jo-baker-podcast or listen in on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast player. Ratings and reviews are like high-fives and “go-girl's” on podcasts.Helping you refresh and refocus so you can do all the thingsyou are called and created to do, my 31 Day Devotional “Soul-Care for Go-Getters” is available on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and my website shop here ( https://www.tiffanyjobaker.com/go-getters-devo ).As a 3x Surrogate, Speaker, Soul-Care and Success Coach andHoly Spirit-led Strategist, I uplift the soul and success of women like you who are walking out your WHY, so you can birth your God-given dreams at home, online, and in the real world. Find me, @TiffanyJoBaker, on Instagram, Facebook and https://www.tiffanyjobaker.com. I would love to connect with you there!

Don't Hide What God Gave YouWhat happens when fear makes you bury the gifts God gave you? In this episode, we break down Jesus' Parable of the Talents and why faithfulness—not perfection—is what matters to God.We're diving into the fourth of Jesus' five parables about His second coming, and this one hits different. It's about a master who entrusts his servants with investments before going on a journey. Two servants double what they're given. One servant? He digs a hole and hides it out of fear.Jesus isn't calling you to be perfect. He's calling you to be faithful with what He's given you—whether that's hospitality, preaching, serving, or loving the people everyone else ignores. This parable shows us that slothfulness isn't just laziness—it's spiritual passivity. It's wanting God without the work. It's playing it safe when Christ never called us to be safe.In this episode:* Why faithfulness matters more than the size of your gift* What it means to be a “good and faithful slave”* How fear and passivity can bury your God-given talents* Why Jesus took the place of the “worthless slave” on the cross* How to identify and invest the gifts God has given YOUAfter the Amen Question: What are the talents God has given you that you need to be more responsible with?

Don't Hide What God Gave YouWhat happens when fear makes you bury the gifts God gave you? In this episode, we break down Jesus' Parable of the Talents and why faithfulness—not perfection—is what matters to God.We're diving into the fourth of Jesus' five parables about His second coming, and this one hits different. It's about a master who entrusts his servants with investments before going on a journey. Two servants double what they're given. One servant? He digs a hole and hides it out of fear.Jesus isn't calling you to be perfect. He's calling you to be faithful with what He's given you—whether that's hospitality, preaching, serving, or loving the people everyone else ignores. This parable shows us that slothfulness isn't just laziness—it's spiritual passivity. It's wanting God without the work. It's playing it safe when Christ never called us to be safe.In this episode:* Why faithfulness matters more than the size of your gift* What it means to be a “good and faithful slave”* How fear and passivity can bury your God-given talents* Why Jesus took the place of the “worthless slave” on the cross* How to identify and invest the gifts God has given YOUAfter the Amen Question: What are the talents God has given you that you need to be more responsible with?

What happens when church leaders abuse their power? More importantly—what does Jesus expect from ALL of us when He returns?In this episode, we break down Matthew 24:45-51, where Jesus gives a serious warning about faithful stewardship. This isn't just for pastors—it's for anyone trying to live for Christ in their 20s and figure out what God has entrusted to them.We talk about: ✓ Why bad church leadership hurts so much (and what Jesus says about it) ✓ The real problem with waiting for Jesus to come back ✓ What it means to be a faithful steward of your time, talents, and treasures ✓ How integrity and hard work connect to eternal rewards ✓ Why Jesus took our punishment so we could receive His rewardThe bottom line: Jesus is coming back, and when He does, He's going to find us either faithfully stewarding what He's given us—or not. The question is, which one will you be?SUPPORT THE PODCAST: