Podcasts about will god

After Israel's rebellion with the golden calf, the question remains: Will God abandon His people?In Exodus 33, God offers Israel the Promised Land, victory, and blessing—but with one devastating difference: His presence will not go with them. Moses' response reveals one of the most important truths in all of Scripture:God Himself is the treasure.In this message we discover:• Why God's presence is better than God's gifts• What truly distinguishes the people of God• Why spiritual maturity produces a deeper hunger for God Himself• How the Holy Spirit fulfills God's desire to dwell among His people• Why the ultimate goal of following God is not merely blessing, but communion with God"The greatest gift God gives is not what comes from His hand—it is His presence."Follow: The Story of the Exodus XXIVExodus 33Mercy Hill Church#Exodus #Exodus33 #PresenceOfGod #Moses #HolySpirit #ChristianSermon #BibleTeaching #MercyHillChurch

Human suffering produces many questions. Jesus takes an opportunity with a blind man to reveal something about God that was bigger than their questions. When God’s mercy touched the blind man, it produced a spirit of courage. Will God’s mercy produce the same in us? From John 9

Last Sunday we began a journey of hope, looking to discover what the Bible has to say about the plan God has for all his creation. But the question arises for some: when God gives me His promise of a heavenly home, can I count on it?  Will God take it away from me once he has given it? That's today's subject, as the sermon title says it, "Once Saved, Always Saved?" Join us now as we seek the answer to this most important question. For more information on the Campground, insider tips and FAQ's, listen to our General Ocean Lakes Podcast, Campground Conversations. 

Will God completely destroy the earth at the end of history? Many Christians picture the end times as God wiping creation away and replacing it with an entirely different world. But is that actually what Scripture teaches? In Episode #10 of Top 10 Most Controversial Verses: Eschatology Edition, Josh Howard examines Revelation 21:1 and one of the biggest questions in biblical prophecy: when Scripture speaks of a “new heaven and new earth,” does it mean annihilation—or renewal? Looking at Revelation 21 alongside 2 Peter 3, Noah’s flood, Isaiah’s prophecies, and the Bible’s larger theme of restoration, this episode explores whether God abandons creation… or redeems it.

Will God completely destroy the earth at the end of history?Many Christians picture the end times as God wiping creation away and replacing it with an entirely different world. But is that actually what Scripture teaches?In Episode #10 of Top 10 Most Controversial Verses: Eschatology Edition, Josh Howard examines Revelation 21:1 and one of the biggest questions in biblical prophecy: when Scripture speaks of a “new heaven and new earth,” does it mean annihilation—or renewal? Looking at Revelation 21 alongside 2 Peter 3, Noah's flood, Isaiah's prophecies, and the Bible's larger theme of restoration, this episode explores whether God abandons creation… or redeems it.Watch all of our videos and subscribe to our channel for the latest content >HereHere

Will God completely destroy the earth at the end of history? Many Christians picture the end times as God wiping creation away and replacing it with an entirely different world. But is that actually what Scripture teaches? In Episode #10 of Top 10 Most Controversial Verses: Eschatology Edition, Josh Howard examines Revelation 21:1 and one of the biggest questions in biblical prophecy: when Scripture speaks of a “new heaven and new earth,” does it mean annihilation—or renewal? Looking at Revelation 21 alongside 2 Peter 3, Noah’s flood, Isaiah’s prophecies, and the Bible’s larger theme of restoration, this episode explores whether God abandons creation… or redeems it.

If you have ever wondered—"Why can't I hear God?” or “Will God ever speak to me?”—then this conversation is for YOU! God is always communicating with His children. Drawing closer to our Heavenly Father empowers us to tune our "ears" to His voice and makes us more aware of His constant presence. Sheila Walsh, Christine Caine, Janice Gaines, Kalley Heiligenthal, and Elyse Mahan share their stories of learning to listen for God's voice and how we can be more sensitive when He speaks! ------- If you missed last week's conversation, we encourage you to go back and listen to “Surrender Your Plans to God.” ------- Do you want more Better Together? We have 1100+ conversations available! Start watching now for free on the TBN+ app!   --------  If you need prayer, join our community on Instagram // Facebook // YouTube // TikTok  and let us know how we can pray for you! ---------  Better Together is TBN's first daily original program made by women for women! We discuss faith, family, friends, and so much more—no topic is off-limits. Find out what happens when real friends get together for real conversations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does "appointed to life" mean in Acts 14:38? Why are Gentiles mentioned in that passage and near every teaching in the New Testament on predestination? Why did somebody tell me, "actions speak louder than words"? Why do so many churches have elaborate (and expensive) programs for children? Will God judge believers for their sins?

IntroductionHow do we know that God will keep his promises? It's a question we don't often ask out loud, but we might ask silently to ourselves. We may experience a setback in life, and we wonder if God is really looking out for us. Psalm 132 permits us to bring that question directly to God. Psalm 132 gives us God's answer. The Promise God MadeLong before Christ's entrance into history, God narrowed his redemptive promise to a single line. He started with the potential of all humanity. In Genesis 3:15, the Lord said, “The seed of the woman.” We do not know the genealogy or the promised heir, other than that the promised champion would arrive from humanity. This would give the Lord a lot of options and a lot of opportunities to bring about the heir. The Lord makes his promise very specific and very narrow. He narrows the promise from all humanity to the tribe of Judah and David's house. The Lord swears in 2 Sam 7 that he will build David's line through the eternal heir, the messiah, who is fully human and fully divine. Two natures in one person. This will establish David's line eternally. The second person of the Trinity will take on flesh to do what the first Adam could not and establish his eternal kingdom. This is wonderful, but then we see the stump of Jesse in Isaiah 11. It seems as if the line of David is cut off. This is the problem in Psalm 132. Where is David's heir? Sure, the line continues, but Israel is back in the land. They dwell there without a visible king. Will God fulfill his promise? Will there be an heir on David's throne for eternity? Sure, Isaiah shows us a shoot, but how strong is that shoot? The shoot seems like a small growth. Yes, we have assurance that the Lord has not forsaken his promise. However, can this small shoot carry the Lord's majestic promise? The Prayer God WelcomesPsalm 132 is in the context of the exile. The psalmist wants to know if God has forsaken his promise. The psalmist does something striking: he reminds God of his own covenant. There's no Davidic king on the throne. The land is restored, but the promise seems stalled. Rather than walking away in despair or stirring up doubt in the congregation, the psalmist brings the tension straight to God. He says, “For the sake of your servant David, do not turn your face away." This is simply, “Lord, you made the promise, and now fulfill your promise.”Scripture gives us that reminder and permission to bring our frustrations to God and remind him of his promises. We can come before God, name his promises, and honestly say: Lord, help me see what I'm missing. In fact, Psalm 132 is encouraging us to do this. We are not going to the community and stirring up unrest, but bringing our frustration to God. Lord, this is what you say, this is what I see, and I need reassurance of your provision. The Answer God GivesThe important thing is that we discern the Lord's answer. This might be through Scripture, it might even be by his providence, where we see the answer to our request. However, Psalm 132 gives us God's answer. God's response in verses 11–18 is not a scolding rebuke against the Psalmist. No, the Lord gives reassurance that his intention has not changed. We are impatient, but the Lord's timing is perfect. The Lord will clothe his priests with salvation. A horn (powerful king) will sprout from David's line. The Messiah will be anointed and equipped to perfectly fulfill his mission. His enemies will wear shame while his king wears a shining crown, and his priests are clothed with glory. In Christ, every one of these images finds its fulfillment. The Messiah came. The Lord fulfilled his promise in his perfect timing. ConclusionHas God forsaken His promise? The temptation is to think that God is looking for a new family to adopt. Psalm 132 assures us that God is not looking for a more deserving family to adopt. Apart from Christ, none of us is considered more deserving. But in Christ, we possess everything as heirs with Christ. Our Lord, who is our King, holds the promise. He wears the crown. He fulfills His word even when we think it is void. When we pray to God, and we rehearse the Lord's promises to us, we know that the Lord fulfills his promise. He has never once failed to keep his word. Rest in that assurance. Proceed in the confidence that you are the Lord's child as you take hold of Christ by faith. Live in the confidence and joy of that promise.

It's Witness Wednesday! At Kennesaw State University, Todd Friel meets an agnostic history student who finds Christianity surprisingly credible, but still isn't ready to commit. The conversation moves from postmodernism and historical evidence to guilt, judgment, and the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Todd also talks with Carlos, who explains why he prefers the name "Yeshua" and wrestles with questions about faith, tradition, and salvation. Segment 1 • Can history actually prove Christianity? • Is agnosticism a safe middle ground? • What kind of evidence would convince you God exists? Segment 2 • Is the Bible just a 2,000-year-old game of telephone? • Why would men die for a resurrection they knew was false? • What if the evidence for Christianity is stronger than you think? Segment 3 • Will God judge you by your good deeds—or your crimes? • Why don't time, regret, or sincerity remove guilt? • What if your biggest problem isn't a lack of evidence? Segment 4 • Why does Carlos refuse to call Jesus "Jesus"? • Does calling Him "Yeshua" make you more biblical? • Is there really a back door into heaven? ___ Thanks for listening! Wretched Radio would not be possible without the financial support of our Gospel Partners. If you would like to support Wretched Radio we would be extremely grateful. VISIT https://fortisinstitute.org/donate/ If you are already a Gospel Partner we couldn't be more thankful for you if we tried!

Hosts Pastor Rico Basso and Pastor Tim Hamilton Question Timestamps: Lauren, email (2:14) - What are the greater things Jesus said we will do in John 14? Juan, NJ (5:53) - Why are pastors so hard on Job's friends? Wouldn't we have done the same thing they did? Sunil, GA (15:12) - Why did Adam not stop Eve from eating the fruit? Joy, NJ (23:19) - How does one go about memorizing scripture and applying it to daily life? Alvin, YouTube (33:47) - How many times are we to forgive? Kathy, NJ (40:11) - When someone is speaking in tongues, is that a language of somewhere else in the world or is it an angelic language? Nicole, NY (45:29) - Does the order of events written in Genesis 1 and 2 mean that there were people created before Adam? Where did Cain's wife come from? Sharon, CA (53:07) - Will God tell us when Jesus will return if we are watching for His return? Ask Your Questions: Call: 888-712-7434 Email: Answers@bbtlive.org    

In this powerful message, the Israelites march around Jericho seven times on the seventh day, when the walls finally collapse. Seven symbolizes divine completion and perfection, as seen in Creation, the Sabbath, manna, and Jubilee. God rarely moves on our timeline He acts in His perfect time. Through stories like Lazarus and Martha, the sermon teaches that His delays are not denials. Persistent obedience and mature faith are essential, even when nothing seems to change. Breakthrough comes when we trust God's Kairos moments and keep walking in obedience.All these questions were answered just as Perry Stone, Jonathan Cahn, John Hagee, Jentezen Franklin, Benny Hinn, Chris Oyaklihome, Steven Furtick, Joel Osteen, Joseph Prince, Joyce Meyer, Paul Dhinakaran, Samuel Patta, Ezekiah Francis, Johnson Varghese, Paul Thangiah, Mohan C Lazarus, TD Jakes and others.01.)Why did God make the Israelites march around Jericho seven times only on the seventh day, and not earlier (like on the 3rd or 5th day)? 02.)What is the biblical significance of the number seven? 03.)Why does God often delay answers to prayer instead of responding immediately?04.)How can we distinguish between our timing and God's timing? 05.)What lesson does the story of Lazarus teach about God's timing? 06.)What should we do when we see no results after praying, fasting, or obeying for many days? 07.)Why does God sometimes wait until the seventh day or seventh time? 08.)What happens when we walk in God's timing and maintain obedience? 09.)Will God still provide and bless His people even during times of famine or lack? 10.)What is the posture God wants from us while waiting for breakthrough?

OPINION: Marcos and the US want Sara out. Will God nod? | May 17, 2026Subscribe to The Manila Times Channel - https://tmt.ph/YTSubscribe Visit our website at https://www.manilatimes.net Follow us: Facebook - https://tmt.ph/facebook Instagram - https://tmt.ph/instagram Twitter - https://tmt.ph/twitter DailyMotion - https://tmt.ph/dailymotion Subscribe to our Digital Edition - https://tmt.ph/digital Check out our Podcasts: Spotify - https://tmt.ph/spotify Apple Podcasts - https://tmt.ph/applepodcasts Amazon Music - https://tmt.ph/amazonmusic Deezer: https://tmt.ph/deezer Stitcher: https://tmt.ph/stitcher Tune In: https://tmt.ph/tunein #TheManilaTimes #KeepUpWithTheTimes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Greg Morse | We may not walk through a physical wilderness, but pain still tempts us to ask, “Will God provide?” Yes, he will — just what we need, just when we need it.

Click here for the DRB Daily Sign Up form! TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: 1 Samuel 24, Psalms 57- 58, 1 Chronicles 8, Matthew 8 Click HERE to give! One Year Bible Podcast: Join Hunter and Heather Barnes on the Daily Radio Bible, a daily Bible‑in‑a‑year podcast with 20‑minute Scripture readings, Christ‑centered devotion, and guided prayer.This daily Bible reading and devotional invites you to live as a citizen of Jesus' kingdom, reconciled, renewed, and deeply loved. TODAY'S EPISODE: Welcome to the Daily Radio Bible with Hunter for April 21st. On today's episode, we journey through 1 Samuel 24, Psalms 57 and 58, 1 Chronicles 8, and Matthew 8, as Hunter guides us through powerful stories of mercy, faith, and the good news of God's willingness to draw near. Through the story of David sparing Saul, heartfelt psalms, epic genealogies, and the miracles of Jesus, we are invited to reconsider the lie of separation and root ourselves in the truth that God is compassionate and present with us, no matter our circumstances. Join Hunter as he reads scripture, reflects on God's love revealed in Christ, and leads us in prayer, grounding our day in the gospel of union with God. TODAY'S DEVOTION: Is God willing? That was the question that weighed on the heart of the leper in Matthew 8. Is God willing to reach out with hands of compassion and touch him, to make him clean? It's a question that echoes through all of us at some point—will God reach out to me? Will God break through the distance, the uncleanness, the unworthiness that I feel? Or will he keep his distance? The Roman officer had this question, too—wondering if God would show mercy and healing to his suffering servant. The crowds outside Peter's mother-in-law's house lined up with the same unspoken hope: will God reach even me? This is the deep ache every human heart feels, the root of our fear and the lie that so often gets sold to us—that God, in his holiness, could not possibly make up the distance to where we are. That our failures, our uncleanness, our inadequacy, build a wall he will not cross. Religion sometimes reinforces this story, making a fortune on the lie of separation—that God is far off, unwilling to bridge the gap. But separation is a lie. The gospel tells a different story entirely. Jesus faces the question head on and answers with, "I am willing." He steps into our mess, our uncleanness, our brokenness, and bridges every gap. He comes to us at our lowest, at our worst. He is willing, present, compassionate. God is not separate—he is with you, right where you are. Jesus has shattered the illusion of distance. He has shown us, once and for all, what God is really like: with us, for us, willing to touch, heal, make whole. The embrace of Christ is unshakable. His willingness undoubtable. The invitation to union and nearness is open to all—there is no wall he will not cross, no uncleanness too deep, no wound too raw. The reality of the gospel is that you are not alone and never separated. God is willing. God is compassionate. God is here. That's the good news I'm rooting my heart in today. That's the prayer I have for myself, for my wife and my daughters and my son, and for you: that the lie of separation would be rooted out, and our roots would sink deep into the gospel of union with God in Christ. May it be so. TODAY'S PRAYERS: Lord God Almighty and everlasting father you have brought us in safety to this new day preserve us with your Mighty power that we might not fall into sin or be overcome by adversity. And in all we do, direct us to the fulfilling of your purpose  through Jesus Christ Our Lord amen.   Oh God you have made of one blood all the peoples of the earth and sent your blessed son to preach peace to those who are far and those who are near. Grant that people everywhere may seek after you, and find you. Bring the nations into your fold, pour out your Spirit on all flesh, and hasten the coming of your kingdom through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.   And now Lord,  make me an instrument of your peace.  Where there is hatred let me sow love. Where there is injury, pardon.  Where there is doubt, faith. Where there is despair, hope.  Where there is darkness, light.  And where there is sadness,  Joy.  Oh Lord grant that I might not seek to be consoled as to console. To be understood as to understand, to be loved as to love.  For it is in the giving that we receive, in the pardoning that we are pardoned, it is in the dying that we are born unto eternal life.  Amen And now as our Lord has taught us we are bold to pray... Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our tresspasses as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not unto temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the Kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. Loving God, we give you thanks for restoring us in your image. And nourishing us with spiritual food, now send us forth as forgiven people, healed and renewed, that we may proclaim your love to the world, and continue in the risen life of Christ.  Amen.  OUR WEBSITE: www.dailyradiobible.com We are reading through the New Living Translation.   Leave us a voicemail HERE: https://www.speakpipe.com/dailyradiobible Subscribe to us at YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Dailyradiobible/featured OTHER PODCASTS: Listen with Apple Podcast DAILY BIBLE FOR KIDS DAILY PSALMS DAILY PROVERBS DAILY LECTIONARY DAILY CHRONOLOGICAL  

Will God ever eliminate evil? Yes, He will. Sermon 20:09

The Visible Gospel Text: Mark 15:1–15 1. The Great Exchange: Jesus Takes the Place of the Guilty Coleton begins by grounding the message in a simple but powerful idea: the gospel is not abstract—it's visible in this moment. Through the story of Jesus and Barabbas, we see something unforgettable: the innocent is condemned so the guilty can go free. Coleton illustrates this with a personal story (Sandra and Sam at Memphis Pizza), showing how this truth isn't just theological—it's deeply personal. At the core of his faith is this belief: “I believe that Jesus was condemned so that guilty sinners like me could be set free.” He then walks us through the scene: Jesus is falsely accused of being an insurrectionist. Barabbas is actually guilty of that exact crime. Yet Jesus takes Barabbas' place. Even more striking: Barabbas' name means “son of the father.” Jesus is the true Son of God the Father. So what we see is this: The true Son of the Father takes the place of a guilty “son of the father.” This is not just history—it's a picture of what Jesus wants to do for us. Scripture Mark 15:1–15 Key Idea The innocent was condemned so that the guilty could go free. 2. For Those Who Know They Are Guilty and Struggle with Sin Coleton turns to those who feel stuck—people who are painfully aware of their sin and can't seem to break free from it. He describes the internal cycle: You keep falling into the same sin. You feel guilt and frustration. You begin to wonder: “Will God really forgive me again?” He points us to Barabbas. Barabbas deserved: punishment condemnation judgment But he received none of it—because of Jesus. And that's the truth for us: Because of Jesus, we will never be treated as our sins deserve. Coleton addresses a subtle but common lie: We believe God forgives… until we sin again. Then we start to feel like: “This time He's done with me.” “His grace has limits.” But Coleton reminds us: “Where sin abounds, grace abounds all the more.” Jesus was treated as our sin deserves—so we never have to be. Quote “He will always side with you against your sin, not against you because of your sin.” — Dane Ortlund Key Idea Jesus will never turn against you because of your sin—He always moves toward you with mercy. 3. For Those Living in the Wreckage of Their Sin Next, Coleton speaks to those whose lives bear the consequences of their choices. This is deeper than guilt—it's damage: broken relationships lost opportunities shattered trust emotional and spiritual fallout He describes the honest realization: “I did this. My sin caused this.” Barabbas knew that reality too. His life was wrecked by his own decisions—and it landed him in prison. But then something unexpected happens: Jesus brings life where only death was ahead. Coleton shares a powerful insight from a friend who had experienced this personally: “People may still see Barabbas as a criminal… but he is still walking in a new life and identity because of what Jesus did.” This is crucial: Jesus doesn't always erase consequences. But He does bring new life in the middle of them. Coleton connects this to the story of the Prodigal Son: The son wrecks his life. He returns expecting rejection. Instead, the father restores him fully. God's heart is not to leave you in the mess—He meets you in it and brings life. Key Idea Jesus doesn't abandon you to your past—He brings life even in the places you've ruined. 4. For Those Questioning Jesus and Christianity Coleton then turns outward—to skeptics and seekers. He makes this clear: The story of Barabbas is not just about forgiveness—it's about transformation. Jesus doesn't just: remove guilt He also: change lives Coleton shares a historical challenge from Hugh Price Hughes to atheist Charles Bradlaugh: Bring even one life changed for the better by atheism, and I'll debate you. Hughes would bring 100 lives transformed by Jesus. Bradlaugh declined. The point is simple: The gospel doesn't just make claims—it changes people. Coleton then shares the story of actor Pietro Sarubbi (who played Barabbas in The Passion of the Christ). During filming, Sarubbi locked eyes with the actor portraying Jesus—and something unexpected happened: “When looking at me, his eyes had no hate… only mercy and love.” That moment led to his conversion. Coleton uses this to show: An encounter with Jesus changes everything. Scripture John 1:12 — “To all who did receive him… he gave the right to become children of God.” John 5 — “They have crossed over from death to life.” Key Idea Jesus offers both forgiveness and a completely new life—and all we must do is receive it. 5. The Invitation: Receive What Jesus Has Done Coleton closes by returning to Barabbas. Barabbas did nothing to earn his freedom. He didn't: clean up his life prove himself repay Jesus He simply walked out of the prison. All he had to do was receive it. And Coleton makes it personal: To the struggling: Confess and trust His mercy. To the broken: Bring Him your wreckage. To the skeptic: Open the door and receive Him. Jesus stands ready—not to condemn—but to free, restore, and transform. Discipleship Group Questions Where do you most feel the tension of ongoing sin in your life, and how does this passage challenge your view of God's patience and grace toward you? In what ways are you currently experiencing the “wreckage” of past decisions? What would it look like to invite Jesus into those specific areas? Why do you think it's hard for people to believe that God won't treat them as their sins deserve? How does the story of Barabbas reshape your understanding of what Jesus actually accomplished on the cross? Who in your life is questioning or skeptical about Jesus? How could this message help you have a meaningful conversation with them? Culture of Gospel Share this with someone in your life who doesn't know Jesus Jesus doesn't ask you to fix yourself before coming to Him—He steps into your place, takes your guilt, and offers you a completely new life you could never earn.  

What will happen during the seven-year Tribulation? Who will be alive when it begins? Will God still show mercy? Who is Babylon during the end times? In today's message, Pastor Thomas Cucuzza continues his series, Coming Soon to a World Near You – Part 9.

The danger isn't over yet…

Hosts Pastor Robert Baltodano and Pastor Larry Powers Question Timestamps: Wilson, NJ (4:38) - Can a believer lose their salvation if they forsake the Lord? Anonymous, email (8:33) - Will God not bless my business if I do not spread the Gospel with my business? Jeff, SC (11:46) - What is the significance of the sacrifices in Leviticus 8? Robert, ID (17:16) - Why is Jesus listed in the genealogy of Abraham to Joseph, when Jesus didn't have any of Joseph's DNA? Matthew, NJ (22:12) - Have either of you seen someone instantly miraculously healed? Justin, email (27:07) - Why does the author of Song of Solomon spend so much time praising his wife's body? Pablo, NJ (33:04) - Can you explain John 3 verse 16 to 18? Scott, SC (37:17) - How am I seen in God's eyes now that I've been divorced twice? Ginger, VA (41:02) - Is it okay to remarry after multiple marriages? Paul, MA (44:05) - Are there any places in scripture that refer to storge or eros? Jerry, VA (46:46) - Is there any chance God would restore my marriage after my wife cheated on me? Maria, YouTube (49:53) - Could you explain Matthew 27 verses 52 to 53? Steve, YouTube (53:58) - Is it considered wrong to take supplements for chronic pain? Ask Your Questions: Call: 888-712-7434 Email: Answers@bbtlive.org

Hank Hanegraaff provides reasoned, biblical responses to many questions dealing with resurrection. In this podcast I cover three questions he answers--Do believers receive resurrected bodies when they die or when Christ returns? If heaven is perfect, won't it be perfectly boring?  Will God raise pets and platypuses from the dead?  NOTE—If you wish to listen to previous podcasts that cover different parts of this book, go to podbean and look at the five choices listed right above the podcasts (Home, Subscribe, Profile, Connect, and the search icon). Click on the search icon and type in the name of the book. Purchase book here I'm Gary Zacharias, a professor of English, avid reader, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ. This podcast is for anyone curious about the intellectual foundation of the Christian faith. Each episode, I feature a key book on topics like the existence of God, the historical evidence for Jesus, science and Christianity, or the reliability of the Bible. These are the books that have earned a permanent place on my apologetics bookshelf—and I want to share them with you. Contact me: theapologistsbookshelf@gmail.com

Welcome to the Grace in Focus podcast. Bob Wilkin and Ken Yates are answering another question related to forgiveness. Will God judge us for sins He has forgiven? When we […] The post How Can God Judge Us for Sins He Has Forgiven? appeared first on Grace Evangelical Society.

Join Pastor Jeff as we explore Faith Question #18: Will God allow our disobedience and idolatry to go unpunished? The truth is that God's anger toward sin is righteous and rooted in justice, not revenge. In this episode, we learn that God sees everything and always does what is right because He is all-knowing, all-powerful, and perfectly just. Psalm 7:11 "God is a righteous judge, and a God who shows his wrath every day."

This week, join Pastor Jeff as we explore Faith Question #18: Will God allow our disobedience and idolatry to go unpunished? We'll learn how God's perfect justice shows us that sin is serious and why understanding His justice helps us understand His heart. Ephesians 5:5-6 "For you may be sure of this, for everyone that is sexually immoral or impure, or is covetous (that is, an idolater), has no inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God. Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience."

CLICK HERE TO LEAVE COMMENTS, ?? or prayer requests send a textHas God ever spoken to you? Do you know the sound of God's voice internally or maybe even audibly? Do you believe God will talk to you one way or another? Will God speak to you? Welcome to yesterday ended, healing the traumas of life. Will you depend on worldly wisdom or artificial intelligence or listen to the spirit of God giving spiritual intelligence? Who will you listen to? I'm your host Dennis Dobbin and I'm here to teach you how to hear the voice of God. Give a listen.

In this session, Kirk Kingsley teaches that believers can have assurance of salvation because salvation is God's work from start to finish, not something we earn or keep by our own effort. He says the real fear behind this question is often, “Will God eventually give up on me?” Using Jacob's life, Kirk shows that God chose, pursued, and stayed faithful to Jacob long before Jacob's faith looked steady or mature. Christians still sin, wander, and struggle, but that does not mean God has let go; sanctification is a lifelong process, and our hope rests in the cross, not our performance.Kirk also uses Peter's denial to show that failure does not cancel salvation. Jesus knew Peter would fall, prayed for him, and restored him—just as Christ now intercedes for believers. Drawing heavily from Romans 8, Philippians 1, John 10, 1 John 5, and Revelation 3, he argues that God does not lose His people, nothing can separate believers from Christ's love, and assurance rests in God's grip on us rather than our grip on Him.The lesson closes by returning to Jacob wrestling with God: perseverance is not perfection, but clinging to God because God has already refused to let go. Sometimes faith leaves us “walking with a limp” through suffering, doubt, and loss, but that limp is not proof of rejection—it is often proof that God has met us there. Support the show

March 1st, 2026 Pastor Kent Hackathorn The creator God is a god who can be known. God has revealed who He is through his Holy Word. God is a god of relationships and desires to have restored, growing, personal relationship with you! The question is: will you seek to know God through His Word? Will God’s Word be the great joy and love of your Life? Come join us this week and take a journey of discovering the redeeming qualities of the Word of God. You will not be disappointed.

March 1st, 2026 Pastor Kent Hackathorn The creator God is a god who can be known. God has revealed who He is through his Holy Word. God is a god of relationships and desires to have restored, growing, personal relationship with you! The question is: will you seek to know God through His Word? Will God’s Word be the great joy and love of your Life? Come join us this week and take a journey of discovering the redeeming qualities of the Word of God. You will not be disappointed.

March 1st, 2026 Pastor Kent Hackathorn The creator God is a god who can be known. God has revealed who He is through his Holy Word. God is a god of relationships and desires to have restored, growing, personal relationship with you! The question is: will you seek to know God through His Word? Will God’s Word be the great joy and love of your Life? Come join us this week and take a journey of discovering the redeeming qualities of the Word of God. You will not be disappointed.

Will God be willing for someone to remain in a marriage for life when it seems there is no love? Is it possible to heal and restore a broken marriage relationship? In this episode, I share about the brokenness in my own marriage and how a personal relationship with the Son became the turning point.Recognizing selfishness as my greatest struggle, I also reflect on how my call to serve as a Stewardship director for the first time (in 1995)—and the insights gained from the book Counsels on Stewardship—played a pivotal role in this journey toward healing and renewal.You may access the book Counsels on Stewardship (PDF or audio) here: https://m.egwwritings.org/en/book/22/infoA Study Guide for this book is available here: http://stewardship.adventist.org/cs-participants-manual.pdfThis message was originally presented on July 24, 2025, during the worship service of the General Conference departments of Sabbath School and Personal Ministries, Women's Ministries, and Stewardship Ministries.

The question of Lent is not: “Will God show Himself?” The question is: “Will I respond?”

Supporting Scriptures Main Points Overall Message Will and Marie's big takeaway is a shift in focus. Instead of asking, “Will God answer my prayer?” the real question is, “Will I still be praying when He does?”. They encourage us to “gird up the loins of our minds” and realize that whether God is delivering us […]

After rescuing Israel from slavery, God brings His people to Mount Sinai — and the story takes a decisive turn. The question is no longer Will God save His people? The question becomes What kind of people will they become?In Exodus 19 we see that salvation was never the finish line. God did not bring Israel out of Egypt simply to forgive them, but to bring them near to Himself. Before a single command is given, God reminds them of His grace: “I carried you on eagles' wings and brought you to myself.” Holiness, then, does not begin with performance — it begins with remembering what God has already done.Pastor Tommy shows how this passage teaches four essential truths for the Christian life: grace comes before obedience, identity comes before behavior, God's presence calls for intentional consecration, and His holiness demands reverence. Sinai reveals a tension — God desires His people to come near, yet His holiness prevents them from approaching on their own terms. The gospel resolves that tension. Through Jesus, the veil is torn and access to God is opened, yet we still approach Him with awe because the God of Sinai is the same God who now dwells in His people by the Spirit.This sermon calls believers to move beyond casual faith and into a life set apart for God — not to earn His favor, but because we already belong to Him.Series: Follow: The Story of ExodusPassage: Exodus 19:1–25

We often have tendency to grin and bear it when God doesn't answer our prayers. But God's grace shines brightest through our weakness. In this message, Pastor Lutzer identifies the features of Paul's triumphant prayer: the request, God's reply, and Paul's response. Will God's grace be sufficient?  This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://offerrtw.com or call us at 1-800-215-5001.  Moody Church Media [https://www.moodymedia.org/], home of "Running To Win," exists to bring glory to God through the transformation of lives.  Erwin W. Lutzer is Pastor Emeritus of The Moody Church in Chicago, where he served as Senior Pastor for 36 years. He is a prolific author of over seventy books. A clear expositor of the Bible, he is the featured speaker on "Running To Win" and "Songs In The Night," with programs broadcasting on over a thousand outlets in the U.S. and across more than fifty countries in seven languages. He and his wife, Rebecca, live in the Chicago area. They have three grown children and eight grandchildren.    SUPPORT:  Tax Deductible Support: https://www.moodymedia.org/donate/  Become an Endurance Partner: https://endurancepartners.org/    SUBSCRIBE:   YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MoodyChurchMedia  Daily Devotional and Weekly Digest: https://www.moodymedia.org/newsletters/subscription/ 

Series: God's Promises, Our JourneyTitle: "Where do you go when you fail God?"Scripture: Genesis 12:10-13:04 NIV James 1:2-6Bottom line: When we fail God, we return to the place where we left his presence and start again.INTRODUCTIONCONTEXTSERMON OUTLINECONCLUSIONNOTESOUTLINESQUESTIONS TO CONSIDER DISCUSSION QUESTIONSMAIN REFERENCES USEDMy opening prayer: Lord God, help us grow to be and do like Jesus, while abiding in him and leading others to do the same. INTRODUCTIONMany of you know that last week we were online only due to the snow and hazardous roads. I was super encouraged by the number of people who tuned in as well. However, the most common feedback I got was interesting. Apparently, it looked like I was reading from the back of my Bible. But I was reading Genesis which is in the front of our Bibles. So, just to set the record straight, I was reading from the front of my Bible while my iPhone live-streamed the mirror-version of me reading. Some of you figured that out by looking at my rings or some other thing. I thought that was funny:-).So "Hero to zero" is a term that athletes sometimes use to describe when a player follows an amazing play with a boneheaded play. I see this in Ultimate Frisbee a lot. (And have done it too)You make an amazing, diving catch. The sidelines erupt with sounds of awe and groans of opposition. Then the player jumps up and instead of dropping it to the open handler poised to throw a scoring strike, they act on their inflated confidence and make a poor throw that ends up in the other teams hands. Hero to zero. The psychological term is overconfidence effect. I don't know if Abram is dealing with that but he definitely goes from a very high confidence in God to a very high confidence in himself.Let's read this together now.Shorter-God initiates redemption, calls us to trust Him without all the details, blesses us for the sake of the world, anchors us with His promises, and forms a people who respond with obedience, worship, and witness.Longer-God is the One who initiates redemption. He calls people before they understand all the details, inviting them to trust His voice and follow His lead. God's blessing is never merely personal—it is always meant to flow outward for the sake of others and ultimately for the nations. Along the way, God anchors His people in uncertain places with unshakable promises. And when God calls, His people respond—not perfectly, but faithfully—through obedience, worship, and public witness as they walk with Him step by step.CONTEXT**Genesis 12 marks a decisive turning point in the biblical story, as God initiates His redemptive plan through one man and one family, promising land, descendants, and blessing that will ultimately extend to all nations. God's promises are spoken clearly and graciously at the outset, calling Abram to leave what is familiar and trust God with an unknown future. Abram responds in faith, worship, and obedience, yet the chapter quickly reveals that walking in God's promises does not mean a flawless journey. Famine, fear, and failure follow obedience, exposing Abram's weakness and need for grace. Throughout the chapter, God remains faithful to protect His promise, preserve Sarai, and continue His purposes despite Abram's missteps. Genesis 12 therefore holds together both realities of our series, God's Promises, Our Journey: God's promises are unshakable, while the journey of faith is marked by growth, testing, and restoration rather than perfection.SERMON (influenced by W Wiersbe, Kent Hughes, and Bethancourt)Review last week:God Is the Initiator of RedemptionGod Calls His People to Trust Him Before They Understand HimGod's Blessing Is Never Merely Personal—It Is MissionalGod Promises to Anchor His People in Uncertain Times & PlacesGod's People Respond with Obedience, Worship, and WitnessTruth 1: Tests often follow triumphs. Moses gets Israel delivered from Pharaoh after the 10th plague followed by Pharaoh abusing the entire arm after them and trapping them against the Red Sea. God brought them through the Red Sea only to test them with no water in the desert. Then no bread. Then no meat.God's tests often come after triumph when we're tempted to think the victory was because of us--not God. We quickly forget God.Of course, God doesn't have us face the tests alone. He allows them for our good* and for his glory. God is with us so we don't have to be afraid.*James 1:1-12Application: So after a faith victory, expect a trial or test. Humble yourself instead of swelling with pride by thanking God and asking him to not let you forget who made that happen or who the source of that grace and provision is.Truth 2: Tests tempt us to run.Ex. People travel up and down I-95 from NY to FL asking for $$$ from people and churches because they're running from crisis only to travel back a year later.Ex. People move from one town to another trying to start over as if all their problems will stay behind. 12:10 Instead of staying (or even just asking God), Abram schemes his own plan. A plan with dangers and risks.We go "down" to Egypt not just topographically (elevation is lower in Egypt) but spiritually, in the Bible. (Abe, Mo, Joe)We go "up" to Jerusalem (where God lives) not just topographicaly (elevation is high) but spiritually, in the Bible. Application: When testing occurs, stay put until God tells you to go. Now, I've met with a lot of people who say God told them to go, even though their sitting in front of me in crisis. So this requires great discernment and prayer.Faith moves towards peace and hope.Unbelief moves towards restlessness and fear.Truth 3: God is great! Therefore, he's in control so I don't have to be; he is able.I am safer in a famine IN HIS WILL that in a palace OUT OF HIS WILL."The will of God will never lead you where the grace of God cannot keep you." (A saying)Abe failed his test with God. This lead to more problems! "When you enroll into the 'school of faith' you can't just drop out because of failure." -WWIt was the first nine weeks of my freshman year in high school. I'd just moved to Summerville 3 months before. And I just failed the first nine weeks of Alebra 1. I'd never failed any class or nine weeks before. I was scared to go home that day. My parents were concerned by supportive. We worked harder and I finished the year with a C average. I might have felt it was a little unfair since my teachers name was Mr. Phailer. But I digress...Abram went down to Egypt moving from trust to scheming/grasping.No altars built in Egypt.No calling on the name of the Lord in Egypt.No worship of God in Egypt.When we stop trusting God's word, we start leaning on man's wisdom. -WWHalf-truths are used to deceive. In the 10 commandments, it says do not commit false witness. Do not deceive others. Abram did that.Abram...Moves from trust to scheming or graspingMoves from confidence to fear ("I will" to "they will")Moves from "others" to selfMoves from bringing blessings to bringing judgmentTruth 4: God keeps his promises. God graciously brought him (them) through it all. Mainly because it would have ruined his promise. God rescued them from Pharaoh and sent them home well-provisioned. This foreshadowed the fleecing that would occur when Moses led Israel out of Egypt and through the Red Sea.Truth 5: Repentance leads to New Beginnings. When you stop trusting God's word and disobey, the only right thing to do is to go back to where you left him and make a new beginning. (1 John 1:9)Abram went back to his tent and altar in the Promised Land; to his life as a sojourner and stranger in this world.What was the big deal?! He came out well-provisioned and safe. It led to other problems with Lot Sarai paid a priceApplication: Never abandon your altar. Stay in fellowship with the Lord and his people no matter the crisis. Resist the temptation to run or isolate. Rest in his provision and protection found in his community. This is part of his covenant relationship we made with us. And he is faithful!CONCLUSIONBottom line: When we fail God, we return to the place where we left his presence and start again. A new beginning.God's promises are unshakable. They are for Abraham and they are for us through Jesus Christ. Will we have times of fear and doubt? Yes. Will God be there for us no matter what? Yes!How do we minimize the times of fear and doubt?We humble ourselves and review God's promises thanking God for them and resting in them. We continue our journey by grace through faith. When we get off track, we return to where we got off track and make another new beginning. We remember these truths and receive his blessings by obeying God's word, worship God himself, and being a blessing in word and deed daily. INVITATIONPeter puts it all in perspective in his first sermon:““Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.” When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”” ‭‭Acts‬ ‭2‬:‭36‬-‭39‬ ‭NIV‬‬How do we respond? Answer 2 questions:Take out a card or piece of paper right now. Write down the answer to these questions: What is God saying to me right now?What am I going to do about it? Write this down on a sheet of paper. What I hear you saying, Lord, is ___________________.[my name] is going to believe/do __________________________________________________ as a result.Finally, share this with your Home or Mission group this week when you gather as a testimony about what God is doing in your life. You don't have to get too specific to give him praise.Lord's Supper, 1 Cor 11:23-26 is good passage.Also, say something like, "Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again." (past, present, and future)PrayNOTES"Fellow believers (Abram's spiritual seed), when we truly believe the promises that are ours in Christ, when we truly understand and believe that we are seated right now in him in the heavenly places, when we understand that all things are ours in Christ, we will cease our grasping. As Alexander Maclaren put it:The less of our energies are consumed in asserting ourselves, and scrambling for our rights, and cutting in before other people, so as to get the best places for ourselves, the more we shall have to spare for better things; and Whereas Abram was living by taith, Lot was living by sight, much as Proram had lived in Egypt."-Alexander MacLaren, Hughes, pp. 200-201Illustration from last week:"I only have eyes for..."AN EXTRAORDINARY ANECDOTE comes to us from the annals of ancient Mideastern history. As the story goes, Cyrus, the great conqueror of the then known world including Babylon, had a general under his authority whose wife was suspected of treason. She was tried before a great and austere tribunal, found guilty, and sentenced to death. After the sentence was pronounced, the woman's husband (a general) made his way to Cyrus's throne and requested, “King Cyrus, please let me take her place.” Cyrus, in awe at what was transpiring before him, said to his court, “Can we terminate a love as great as this?” He then paroled the woman to her husband. As the couple left the court, the general said to his wife, “Did you see the benevolent look in Cyrus's eyes as he pardoned you?” The wife responded, “I only had eyes for the one who loved me enough that he was willing to die for me.”OUTLINESQUESTIONS TO CONSIDERWhat do I want them to know? Why do I want them to know it?What do I want them to do?Why do I want them to do it?How do they do this?DISCUSSION QUESTIONSDiscovery Bible Study process: https://www.dbsguide.org/Read the passage together.Retell the story in your own words.Discovery the storyWhat does this story tell me about God?What does this story tell me about people?If this is really true, what should I do?What is God saying to you right now? (Write this down)What are you going to do about it? (Write this down)Who am I going to tell about this?Find our sermons, podcasts, discussion questions and notes at https://www.gracetoday.net/podcastAlternate Discussion Questions (by Jeff Vanderstelt): Based on this passage:Who is God?What has he done/is he doing/is he going to do?Who am I? (In light of 1 & 2)What do I do? (In light of who I am)How do I do it?Final Questions (Write this down)What is God saying to you right now? What are you going to do about it?MAIN REFERENCES USED“Genesis,” by R. Kent Hughes, Preaching the Word Commentary, Edited by Kent HughesExalting Jesus in Genesis, by BethancourtThe Genesis Record, by Henry MorrisThe Genesis Factor, by David Helms & Jon Dennis“Look at the Book” by John Piper (LATB)“The Bible Knowledge Commentary” by Walvoord, Zuck (BKC)“The Bible Exposition Commentary” by Warren Wiersbe (BEC)"Genesis" by Briscoe (TCC)Outline Bible, D Willmington (OB)Willmington's Bible Handbook, D Willmington (WBH)NIV Study Bible (NIVSB) https://www.biblica.com/resources/scholar-notes/niv-study-bible/Chronological Life Application Study Bible (NLT)ESV Study Bible (ESVSB) https://www.esv.orgThe Bible Project https://bibleproject.com“The Bible in One Year 2023 with Nicky Gumbel” bible reading plan on YouVersion app (BIOY)Claude.ai

On today's Bible Answer Man broadcast (01/29/26), Hank answers the following questions:Does a person go to hell for committing suicide? Stuart - MS (0:54)How do dinosaurs coincide with the Bible? What about the Behemoths? Troy - Detroit, MI (7:04)What can you tell me about Jentezen Franklin? Virginia - Queens, NY (17:01)Is there a significance to the use of the word “was” in John 1:1? Tim - St. Louis, MO (19:07)Will God hold people to vows and oaths for pledges made to false teachers? Jim - Kansas City, MO (21:19)I was tithing to a church, but the pastor kept coming in with nice new suits and a new car, so I left. Is there another way to tithe? Shawn - Topeka, KS (22:43)

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20260116dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.” Matthew 3:16-17 He Opens Heaven Have you ever been locked out? You get locked out of your house. You panic. What a relief when someone comes to the rescue. A friend with a key lets you in. What a dreadful thought to be locked out forever. When humanity first fell into sin, the door to paradise was slammed shut. Access to God was cut off because of sin. Do you sense it still today? Does it seem like the door to heaven is still closed? Do you ever wonder and even worry, “Will God be pleased with me? Will he let me in?” What a relief when the one who holds the keys to eternal life comes to the rescue and opens heaven. This is exactly what Jesus was sent to do: open heaven and unlock eternity for you and all who believe. These verses from Matthew chapter 3, mark the beginning of Jesus’ earthly ministry. When Jesus was baptized, something amazing happened—heaven opened! God the Holy Spirit came down in the form of a dove, and God the Father spoke words of affirmation, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.” Jesus’ work on earth had one goal in mind: to undo sin and reverse its deadly grip on you. On the cross where he died, all debts for your sins were paid. At his empty tomb, when he rose from the dead, he declared that nothing now stands between you and God. Jesus gives these gifts in a personal way through baptism. When anyone is baptized, something amazing happens—heaven is opened! God gives his Spirit to comfort and strengthen. All sin is washed away. What God the Father declared about Jesus, he declares about everyone who is baptized, “This is my child! With this child of mine, I am well pleased!” This is what Jesus, your Savior, does for you. He opens heaven. Access to God, the loving Father, is granted now and forever. Prayer: God, our loving Father, thank you for sending your Son to be my eternal rescue. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20260116dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.” Matthew 3:16-17 He Opens Heaven Have you ever been locked out? You get locked out of your house. You panic. What a relief when someone comes to the rescue. A friend with a key lets you in. What a dreadful thought to be locked out forever. When humanity first fell into sin, the door to paradise was slammed shut. Access to God was cut off because of sin. Do you sense it still today? Does it seem like the door to heaven is still closed? Do you ever wonder and even worry, “Will God be pleased with me? Will he let me in?” What a relief when the one who holds the keys to eternal life comes to the rescue and opens heaven. This is exactly what Jesus was sent to do: open heaven and unlock eternity for you and all who believe. These verses from Matthew chapter 3, mark the beginning of Jesus’ earthly ministry. When Jesus was baptized, something amazing happened—heaven opened! God the Holy Spirit came down in the form of a dove, and God the Father spoke words of affirmation, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.” Jesus’ work on earth had one goal in mind: to undo sin and reverse its deadly grip on you. On the cross where he died, all debts for your sins were paid. At his empty tomb, when he rose from the dead, he declared that nothing now stands between you and God. Jesus gives these gifts in a personal way through baptism. When anyone is baptized, something amazing happens—heaven is opened! God gives his Spirit to comfort and strengthen. All sin is washed away. What God the Father declared about Jesus, he declares about everyone who is baptized, “This is my child! With this child of mine, I am well pleased!” This is what Jesus, your Savior, does for you. He opens heaven. Access to God, the loving Father, is granted now and forever. Prayer: God, our loving Father, thank you for sending your Son to be my eternal rescue. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20260111dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to be baptized by John. But John tried to deter him, saying, “I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?” Jesus replied, “Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness.” Then John consented. As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.” Matthew 3:13-17 How’s Your Approval Rating? Whether it’s at work, school, or home, we are constantly graded, compared to others, and rated. The boss gives us our annual review. The teacher hands out report cards. The son informs mom that her Mac & Cheese isn't as good as what Dylan’s mom makes. It is strange how these “ratings” can affect our day. If they’re good, we feel good. If they’re lousy, we feel lousy. If they’re nothing special, then we are tempted to feel that we’re nothing special. How's your approval rating with God? How have you been keeping up with those Ten Commandments? Remember, they’re not God’s suggestions; they are his commands. How’s it going between you and your neighbor, all your neighbors? Jesus said, “Love your neighbor as yourself.” If we’re going to talk comparisons, why not go all the way and, as God says, compare ourselves to him. “Be holy, for I the Lord your God am holy.” Yikes! Will I ever meet with God’s approval? Will God ever say of me, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased”? This is what makes the Baptism of Jesus, as well as our own baptisms so special. God, in his grace, has connected me to Jesus. God has given me faith in Jesus as my Savior. Jesus has taken away all my sins. Jesus gives me his perfection and holiness. When God looks at me, he sees Jesus and he says, “This is my son, my daughter, whom I love! With him, with her, I am well pleased.” Approval ratings don’t get any higher than this. God be praised! Prayer: Dear Jesus, when doubts of my worth come, drown them in the waters of Baptism and remind me of your love for me in Jesus. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/daily-devotions/20260111dev.mp3 Listen to Devotion Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to be baptized by John. But John tried to deter him, saying, “I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?” Jesus replied, “Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness.” Then John consented. As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.” Matthew 3:13-17 How’s Your Approval Rating? Whether it’s at work, school, or home, we are constantly graded, compared to others, and rated. The boss gives us our annual review. The teacher hands out report cards. The son informs mom that her Mac & Cheese isn't as good as what Dylan’s mom makes. It is strange how these “ratings” can affect our day. If they’re good, we feel good. If they’re lousy, we feel lousy. If they’re nothing special, then we are tempted to feel that we’re nothing special. How's your approval rating with God? How have you been keeping up with those Ten Commandments? Remember, they’re not God’s suggestions; they are his commands. How’s it going between you and your neighbor, all your neighbors? Jesus said, “Love your neighbor as yourself.” If we’re going to talk comparisons, why not go all the way and, as God says, compare ourselves to him. “Be holy, for I the Lord your God am holy.” Yikes! Will I ever meet with God’s approval? Will God ever say of me, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased”? This is what makes the Baptism of Jesus, as well as our own baptisms so special. God, in his grace, has connected me to Jesus. God has given me faith in Jesus as my Savior. Jesus has taken away all my sins. Jesus gives me his perfection and holiness. When God looks at me, he sees Jesus and he says, “This is my son, my daughter, whom I love! With him, with her, I am well pleased.” Approval ratings don’t get any higher than this. God be praised! Prayer: Dear Jesus, when doubts of my worth come, drown them in the waters of Baptism and remind me of your love for me in Jesus. Amen. Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Hosts Pastor Robert Baltodano and Pastor Lloyd Pulley Question Timestamps: Frank, email (2:22) - Where do you see God in the last three chapters of Judges? Beth, email (4:15) - Is there a difference between "teaching from the text" versus "teaching the text?" John, YouTube (5:47) - What are your opinions on extreme free grace theology? What about Zane Hodges? Brittany, NY (8:03) - How do you know when your thoughts are from God and not from the devil? Anonymous, caller (11:13) - I've never cried over my sin, does that mean I need more conviction? Do I not care enough about God? Kelly, MA (17:23) - Why is Satan as powerful as the Lord if God is everywhere? John, YouTube (21:31) - What do you say when people claim that spiritual fruit is just "backloading works?" Andy, FL (24:12, continued after break at 33:26) - How do we differentiate when temptation comes from the flesh or spiritual influences? How do I help my wife come to Jesus? Tom, MA (41:40) - Is it Biblical to have your body donated to science? Jamaal, NY (44:30) - Why didn't John mention that the temple was destroyed in his later letters? Ramos, Facebook (48:18) - Can I, as a Christian, block a toxic sibling from my phone or stop her from coming to my house? Carmen, email (50:32) - How can you be sure you've received a sign from God, when Satan can masquerade as an angel of light? Brandon, MA (52:19) - Will God accept my apology for things I did in the past? Ask Your Question: 888-712-7434 Answers@bbtlive.org

God has always been speaking — whether it was to prophets in the Old Testament or ordinary people of today. But, you may find yourself asking: Will God still speak to me? Listen as Pastor Brent kicks off a new sermon series entitled Is This Thing On?.

Do you feel like an outsider? How should Christians live as outsiders? Will God forget me? In today's episode, Keith shares how Isaiah 49:8-26 reminds us that because of Jesus, God will never forget us or forsake us. Read the Bible with us in 2026! This year, we're exploring the Gospels—Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Download your reading plan now. Your support makes TMBT possible. Ten Minute Bible Talks is a crowd-funded project. Join the TMBTeam to reach more people with the Bible. Give now. Like this content? Make sure to leave us a rating and share it so that others can find it, too. Use #asktmbt to connect with us, ask questions, and suggest topics. We'd love to hear from you! To learn more, visit our website and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter @TenMinuteBibleTalks. Don't forget to subscribe to the TMBT Newsletter here. Passages: Isaiah 49:8-26

Plants need water to grow. People and animals need plants to live. If you don't have water, youdon't have life. No water-death. That's the situation that Naomi and her husband Elimelechfound themselves in when a severe famine was in the land. What is going to happen to theirfamily? Will God work everything out? We will have to find out!Year A Quarter 4 Week 44All Bible verses are from the NKJVHymn: Give of Your Best to the MasterWrite to Ms. Katie: seedpod@startingwithjesus.comKatie's Korner: https://startingwithjesus.com/katies-korner/Find the Lessons Here:Kindergarten https://bit.ly/SeedPodKLessonsPrimary https://bit.ly/SeedPodPLessonsConnect with Us:Website: https://startingwithjesus.comStarting With Jesus - YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/StartingWithJesusSeedPod - YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCvU2FBPEL5-Zi2QW0STVLgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/startingwithjesusFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/startingwithjesusAcknowledgments:Bible Readings this week: Jaelyn & KristenPodcast Producer: Katie ChitwoodSound Engineer: Dillon AustinMy Bible First, https://bit.ly/SeedPodLesson for use of their Bible Lesson curriculum.AudioVerse, https://www.audioverse.org/ for partnering with us and supporting our ministry.Lindsey Mills, for writing and performing our SeedPod Kids Theme Song & Background Music.To learn more about her music or to get her CD, email her: lindsey@startingwithjesus.com

Why does God bring judgment? Why was Israel sent into exile? Will God give up on his people? In today's episode, Jensen shares how 2 Kings 15:27-38 encourages us to hold fast to God because he is trustworthy. If you're listening on Spotify, tell us about yourself and where you're listening from! Read the Bible with us in 2025! This year, we're exploring the Historical Books—Joshua, Judges, 1 & 2 Samuel, and 1 & 2 Kings. Download your reading plan now. Your support makes TMBT possible. Ten Minute Bible Talks is a crowd-funded project. Join the TMBTeam to reach more people with the Bible. Give now. Like this content? Make sure to leave us a rating and share it so that others can find it, too. Use #asktmbt to connect with us, ask questions, and suggest topics. We'd love to hear from you! To learn more, visit our website and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter @TenMinuteBibleTalks. Don't forget to subscribe to the TMBT Newsletter here. Passages: 2 Kings 15:27-38

Will God judge a murderer more severely than a liar? Do certain sins separate us more greatly from God? Join Scott and Chris in this Mailbag episode of Thinking With Your Bible as they address the condition of sin in the human heart and discern the various consequences of sins according to Scripture. Key Points:All sin separates us from God.We aren't sinners because we sin; we sin because we're sinners.The OT Law defined various consequences for breaking certain laws.Outward actions of sin are rooted in the heart. (Matt. 5)All our sin can be forgiven through Christ.Follow Us on InstagramVisit Our Website

Read OnlineJesus told his disciples a parable about the necessity for them to pray always without becoming weary. Luke 18:1In our parable for today, we have the witness of a widow who came to a dishonest judge and continuously begged him for a just judgment. Though the judge did not care about the woman, he eventually rendered a just decision for her because she was so persistent. It's interesting that Jesus used the image of a “dishonest judge” to teach us about persistent prayers being answered. He does so because He wants us to understand that if even those who are dishonest respond to persistence, then so much more will the Just Judge of Heaven respond to persistence.Will God answer any prayer you pray if you offer that prayer day and night, day after day without fail? Does God eventually give into our requests as a parent might give into a child who keeps begging for something? Not exactly. One of the most important qualifiers mentioned in this parable is the word “just.” We read that the woman's plea before the judge was, “render a just decision for me…” At the conclusion of the parable, Jesus gives this interpretation: “Will not God then secure the rights of his chosen ones who call out to him day and night?” When we pray, we ought not pray for whatever we want. We ought not pray for our preference, selfish desires, or our own ideas. We must pray only for the justice of God. When we do so with unwavering perseverance, God will secure our rights and bring forth His justice.Justice, in the mind of God, is not only about righting certain wrongs. The prime example of this is the death of our Lord Himself. Clearly, Jesus was purely innocent and yet He suffered greatly. For that reason, would we conclude that the suffering and death of the Son of God was an injustice? Not really. The reason for this is that justice can be achieved best by mercy. Because Jesus embraced the injustice of His suffering and death and turned it into a free embrace out of love, this “injustice” became a sacrifice of love by which an abundance of mercy was bestowed. Jesus had every right to call down fire from Heaven and to destroy those who sinned against Him. But He had a far better plan. Instead, by choosing to accept the injustice of the Cross, and by freely embracing it with His own will, the injustice was transformed and a far greater good came forth.In our own lives, whenever we are wronged by another, we are often tempted to anger and to desire revenge in the name of justice. We want them to pay for what they did. If you ever feel that way, know that the greatest form of justice is mercy. Know that your free embrace of injustice brings forth the transforming power of God in a way that punishment or retribution could never accomplish. This is the form of justice we must pray for night and day. We must beg God for the ability to accept all sufferings with love, to offer those sufferings as a sacrifice, and to allow them to be transformed into mercy. If this is our persistent prayer, we can be certain that our prayer will be answered. Reflect, today, upon anything for which you desire justice. Is there anything that has been unfair in your life? Do you dwell upon any hurt inflicted upon you by another? As you call those things to mind, know that the power of your persistent prayer has the potential to transform those sufferings into God's mercy. Beg for this gift and know that God will always answer those prayers. Most just Judge, You desire to transform every injustice into mercy by calling us to freely embrace those injustices out of love. This is a high calling, dear Lord, but it is also a glorious one. Please give me the grace I need to follow Your example and to persevere in this form of prayer always. Jesus, I trust in You.  Image: various, Public domain, via Wikimedia CommonsSource of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2025 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.

Why does God keep helping Israel? Will God give up on me? Will God provide? In today's episode, Patrick shares how 2 Kings 7 reminds us that even if we give up on God, God never gives up on us. If you're listening on Spotify, tell us about yourself and where you're listening from! Read the Bible with us in 2025! This year, we're exploring the Historical Books—Joshua, Judges, 1 & 2 Samuel, and 1 & 2 Kings. Download your reading plan now. Your support makes TMBT possible. Ten Minute Bible Talks is a crowd-funded project. Join the TMBTeam to reach more people with the Bible. Give now. Like this content? Make sure to leave us a rating and share it so that others can find it, too. Use #asktmbt to connect with us, ask questions, and suggest topics. We'd love to hear from you! To learn more, visit our website and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter @TenMinuteBibleTalks. Don't forget to subscribe to the TMBT Newsletter here. Passages: 2 Kings 7

Are you trying to hide your sin? Are you listening to court prophets or close friends? Will God's word ever fail? In today's episode, Keith shares how 1 Kings 22:1-28 reminds us that your sin will eventually find you out. If you're listening on Spotify, tell us about yourself and where you're listening from! Read the Bible with us in 2025! This year, we're exploring the Historical Books—Joshua, Judges, 1 & 2 Samuel, and 1 & 2 Kings. Download your reading plan now. Your support makes TMBT possible. Ten Minute Bible Talks is a crowd-funded project. Join the TMBTeam to reach more people with the Bible. Give now. Like this content? Make sure to leave us a rating and share it so that others can find it, too. Use #asktmbt to connect with us, ask questions, and suggest topics. We'd love to hear from you! To learn more, visit our website and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter @TenMinuteBibleTalks. Don't forget to subscribe to the TMBT Newsletter here. Passages: 1 Kings 22:1-28

Will God pursue even the self-righteous? In this episode of Light + Truth, John Piper opens Luke 15:1–32 to show the Father entreating those who resist his mercy.