Podcasts about without christ

Is "Cultural Christianity" a bridge to the gospel — or a counterfeit that replaces it? In this episode, Dr. James Spencer (PhD, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School) and Dr. Ashish Varma respond to James Wood's widely-discussed First Things article, In Defense of Cultural Christianity. Together they unpack why calling a civilisation "Christian" when Christ is not its governing authority is not just imprecise — it's theologically catastrophic. From the Christendom narrative and American civil religion to the habituation of virtue, abortion statistics, and a profound meditation on Pentecost in Acts 2, this episode models what serious Christian thinking looks like when it refuses to foreclose on the full authority of Jesus Christ too soon. If you've wrestled with Christian nationalism, the "good, true, and beautiful" in culture, or what it means to vote as a follower of Jesus, this conversation is essential listening. Key Takeaways: Why "a culture influenced by Christianity" is an insufficient — and potentially dangerous — definition of "Christian culture" The concept of "inappropriate foreclosure": closing off our understanding of the good too soon and using that partial view as if it were complete How Robert Bellah's concept of American civil religion explains why Christian language gets co-opted by government without actually conforming people to Christ Why the Book of Acts — specifically Pentecost and the Gentile inclusion — fundamentally disrupts any vision of Christianity as a singular cultural program The Light Bright metaphor: God is the light source; culture is the peg pattern. Christians must point people behind the pegs to the light itself Why policy-driven virtue formation (habituation) has measurable real-world limits — and what the abortion statistics during different administrations actually reveal How Dr. Varma's personal experiences — from campus life on 9/11 to being randomly selected in airports — illustrate why Wood's "civilisational benefit" narrative forecloses on the experiences of many believers Get early access and a bonus with a Patreon membership. Subscribe to our YouTube channel To read James's article on this topic, check out his author page on Christianity.com.

In this message, Pastor Nathan continues our Ephesians series by moving into Ephesians chapter 2.Paul begins with a clear description of humanity's spiritual condition. Without Christ, we were spiritually dead because of sin, shaped by the world, influenced by the enemy, and driven by our sinful desires.This is not written to condemn us. It reminds us where we have come from and helps us understand the depth of what God has done.Then Paul introduces two of the most important words in Scripture:“But God.”God intervened.He did not act because we earned it or achieved something that forced Him to respond. He acted because He is rich in mercy and because He loved us so deeply.Pastor Nathan highlights several things God has done for us:1. He gave us lifeThough we were spiritually dead, God made us alive with Christ.A dead person cannot bring themselves back to life. Our rescue is entirely God's work.2. He raised us with ChristThrough our union with Jesus, we have been brought into a new spiritual reality.We are no longer defined by death, sin, or our past. We are alive in Christ.3. He made us examples of His graceFollowers of Jesus are living examples of God's mercy, kindness, and grace.Our transformed lives show others what God can do.4. He created us as His masterpieceEphesians 2:10 describes us as God's workmanship or masterpiece.We are not finished products. God is still shaping, refining, restoring, and transforming us into something beautiful.5. He gave us a purposeSalvation is not the end of the journey. It is the beginning.God has prepared good works for us to do. There is a person He is forming us to become and a purpose He has prepared for us to fulfil.Pastor Nathan uses the illustration of hiking the Larapinta Trail to describe life with Jesus.The trail can be steep, difficult, tiring, and uncertain. There are mountains, valleys, dry stretches, and moments when giving up feels tempting.But the trail has been prepared.There are markers that keep us moving in the right direction. There are moments of rest, refreshment, growth, and breathtaking beauty. Over time, we build wisdom, endurance, trust, and resilience.Walking with Jesus is similar.There are mountains to climb, including addiction, anger, controlling behaviour, unhealthy patterns, or the difficult work of forgiveness.There are also valleys of grief, trauma, mental health struggles, broken relationships, and health concerns.Even through those valleys, Jesus has prepared a path. He walks with us, strengthens us, guides us, carries us, and reminds us not to give up.The Christian life is not always easy or comfortable. Being alive in Christ does not mean everything suddenly becomes simple.It means we no longer walk alone.Pastor Nathan closes with this challenge:Are you fully embracing the new life Christ has given you?It is time to stop creating our own path and trust the trail Jesus has prepared.Key Scriptures:Ephesians 2:1-10Romans 6:12-13Galatians 5:16John 10:10Key Thought:You were spiritually dead, but God made you alive in Christ. You are His masterpiece, created with purpose and called to follow the path He has prepared for you.

Dave looks at Ephesians 2 and Acts 2 to explore the fundamental foundations of the Christian faith. Using a practical illustration involving loose gravel and a shed base, he explains how Christians are designed to be built together to withstand the pressures of life. The Personal Foundation (Acts 2): Dave breaks down the four essential elements of a Christian's personal foundation: Repentance (turning away from sin), Faith (trusting in Jesus), Water Baptism (the outward symbol of a changed life), and Holy Spirit Baptism (the power needed to live out our faith). What We Once Were (Ephesians 2:11-12): It is vital to remember where we came from so we remain humble. Without Christ, humanity was spiritually dead, hopeless, and completely alienated from God. What Christ Has Done (Ephesians 2:13-16): Through His blood on the cross, Jesus paid our debt and brought us near to God. He fulfilled the law and tore down the “walls of hostility” that divide people, establishing true peace. What We Are Now (Ephesians 2:19): When we trust in Jesus, our old life is history. We are no longer strangers or outsiders; we are citizens of God’s kingdom, built together as a diverse, unified church. Like individual pebbles locked into a foundation grid, we are made stronger together. The post Dave Frodsham: Strong Foundations first appeared on Jubilee Church Wirral.

This episode of Sanity Check examines a question that sits at the heart of modern scientific culture: Can science remain ethical when divorced from a moral framework? Drawing from a standout presentation delivered at the recent Cornwall Alliance Spring Conference in Memphis, Daniel O'Malley argues that science can tell us what can be done, but not what should be done—and that without Christianity, science risks becoming untethered from truth, ethics, and human responsibility. In this episode, David R. Legates reflects on his own experiences facing skepticism as a Christian scientist, from university audiences to media interviews, and explores the deeper assumption behind those encounters: that secularism is objective while Christianity is inherently biased. The discussion challenges that premise directly, arguing that every scientific enterprise is ultimately guided by some moral vision, whether acknowledged or not.Visit our podcast resource page: https://cornwallalliance.org/listen%20to%20our%20podcast%20created%20to%20reign/Our work is entirely supported by donations from people like you. If you benefit from our work and would like to partner with us, please visit www.cornwallalliance.org/donate. 

Breaking the Chain of Weakness Romans 8:26-30 26 Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words. 27 And he who searches hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. 28 And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. 29 For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. 30 And those whom he predestined he also called, and those whom he called he also justified, and those whom he justified he also glorified. Without Christ we are absolutely powerless to do anything. I. Power comes from the Holy Spirit. II. The Holy Spirit intercededes for us with the Father. III. The Holy Spirit makes us more and more like Jesus. (Sanctification)

Read Online“When a woman is in labor, she is in anguish because her hour has arrived; but when she has given birth to a child, she no longer remembers the pain because of her joy that a child has been born into the world. So you also are now in anguish. But I will see you again, and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take your joy away from you.” John 16:21–22When we live fully united to Christ, we can endure anguish with confidence and determination. Without Christ, even small, temporary trials become so burdensome that we tend to avoid them. Though trials are not desirable in themselves, God permits them to strengthen us in virtue and prepare us for eternity. The anguish that accompanies them is temporary, but the victory over them is eternal. If we refuse to endure the temporary, we risk losing the eternal.Our Gospel illustrates this point well. The purpose of pregnancy is to cooperate with God's creative power and to bring forth into the world a precious new soul who will exist for all eternity. What a joy it is for parents to learn of their pregnancy, endure the nine months and the labor, hold their newborn child, and accompany that child throughout life and into Heaven.In order to give birth to that child, the woman must endure labor pains. These pains are not desirable or sought for their own sake, but a woman willingly endures them as a necessary condition for the great joy of new life. Afterward, a loving mother does not regret having a baby because the labor was painful. The joy of holding her newborn is so rewarding that it puts the pain in perspective.Just as a woman willingly endures labor pains for the joy of new life, we too must embrace temporary trials to receive eternal blessings. Trials are a consequence of Original Sin. In the beginning, God did not will that trials would be part of our lives. After the Fall, many forms of trials entered human existence. To enable us to overcome these trials, the Son of God took on flesh and overcame everything we endure. Therefore, when we face trials, God looks at us and invites us to follow His example: to carry our crosses with His strength, to do what He already did.When Jesus told His Apostles, “So you also are now in anguish,” He was speaking not only to them but also to us. Jesus was fully aware of the anguish the Apostles would endure through His coming Passion, and He is fully aware of every anguish we will endure. His awareness is active, offering hope: “I will see you again, and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take your joy away from you.” This is His promise to each of us as we confidently endure the trials of life. Our endurance will lead to eternal joy, for we will share in the victory of Christ's Resurrection. Reflect today on whether you are willing to endure the anguish of temporary trials so as to share in the eternal blessing that will come after. Are you living for what is temporary or eternal? Do you avoid trials out of fear, or do you embrace them with trust in Christ's promise? Reflect on how you might unite your daily struggles with His Passion and seek His grace to persevere. Turn to Jesus, Who has already endured every trial and triumphed, and imitate Him so that you share in His victory and rejoice with Him for all eternity. My determined Lord, You fully aligned Your will with the Father's by embracing the great anguish caused by Your Passion and exhorted Your disciples to imitate You. You call me to do the same. Please give me the grace and wisdom I need to keep my eyes on the eternal and glorious end to which I am called, so that I can endure every temporary anguish with joy and hope. Jesus, I trust in You.Image via Adobe StockSource: Free RSS feed from catholic-daily-reflections.com — Copyright © 2026 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. This content is provided solely for personal, non-commercial use. Redistribution, republication, or commercial use — including use within apps with advertising — is strictly prohibited without written permission.

Ps. Julius RwotlonyoWe see a church today that, in many ways, struggles to influence the world around it. Without Christ at the centre, we become just another community group trying to make the world a little better.

Sometimes we feel unworthy of God's love—and instead of running to Him, we hide, convinced our sin is too great to forgive. We try to earn His favor, but like Adam and Eve, our striving ends in failure and shame. In today's episode of the MY Devotional Podcast, Dr. Michael Youssef reminds us of a life-giving Truth: God's love is greater than our sin, and He has already made a way to set us free. Dr. Youssef takes us to John 4, where Jesus deliberately traveled through Samaria—crossing cultural and religious hostility—to meet a Samaritan woman whose life was marked by broken relationships and moral failure. She didn't realize her greatest problem wasn't men, marriage, or even adultery—it was a deep, unsatisfied thirst only Jesus could quench. This devotional helps you see yourself in her story. Without Christ, we become more entangled the harder we fight sin in our own strength. But Jesus comes straight to the point of need—bringing truth to light, uncovering hidden struggles, and offering real freedom. The same Savior who met that woman at the well is ready to meet you today with living water—cleansing, restoring, and renewing all who come to Him. If you need forgiveness, healing, or restoration, this episode is an invitation: come to Christ—and trust Him to make you new. Prayer: Lord, forgive me for the ways I have tried to satisfy my heart-longings apart from You. May I be filled with Your living water today. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen. “For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him” (John 3:17). Learn more in Dr. Michael A. Youssef's sermon Encountering Christ, Freedom from Bondage: LISTEN NOW | WATCH NOW The voice you hear on the MY Devotional podcast is digitally generated with Dr. Youssef's permission. If today's devotional stirred a question, burden, or need for prayer, you don't have to walk through it alone.

Are you a child of wrath — or a child of grace? In this devotion from Words From The Word, Pastor Roderick Webster opens Ephesians chapter 2, verse 3 (KJV) to explain the third force that drives human disobedience — the flesh. Not the physical body, but the fallen nature every person is born with.You might be asking — Does that mean unsaved people never do anything good? Can good deeds earn salvation? What does it really mean to be a "child of wrath"? And what does it take for that verdict to change?Key points from this devotion:- The flesh is the fallen nature we are born with, and it shapes all of our behavior before Christ- Unsaved people can and do perform good deeds, but no good deed can meet God's standard or earn salvation- Without Christ, every person is spiritually dead, disobedient, depraved, and under the wrath of God- John 3:18 makes clear that condemnation is already the condition of those who have not believed in Christ- The only way out of being a child of wrath is to settle your account with the Lord Jesus Christ todayIf this devotion encouraged you, please like, leave a comment, share it with someone who needs it, and subscribe so you never miss a daily word.#WordsFromTheWord #KJV #BibleDevotion #ChristianLiving #GoodNewsBaptistChurchStay connected with GNBC:

Without Christ-exalting love, spiritual gifts serve as self-promotion — even when they produce powerful results.

The foundation of holy living is ground on Christ alone. Without Christ as our cornerstone, building life will not work. Join Pastor G as he continues the series on 1 Peter during our Wednesday Night Services.

Can you grow up in church, know the Bible, and still not truly be saved?In this episode, Pastor David Mataya shares how his life went from outward “Christian” to a train wreck of sin, anger, and a broken marriage—and how God used it all to bring him to true repentance and faith in Christ.You'll hear about head knowledge vs. heart change, false assurance, and the life-changing power of the gospel.Follow us on Social Media:  Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ordinarypeoplepodcast/?sub_confirmation=1Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ordinarypeoplepodcast/Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/ordinarypeoplewithextraordinarylives/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/ordinarywith  Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ordinarypeoplepodWebsite: http://ordinarypeoplewithextraordinarylives.orgFind us on the BAR Network: B.A.R. Network - The Art Of Worship B.A.R. Network - The Art Of Worship https://theartofworship.net/bar/Need help with audio? Reach out to Andrea Cline: https://andreaclineaudio.com      To Support Our Podcast, visit the link below:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ordinarypeoplepodcastWant to share your testimony or have a question?  Please email us: podcast@ordinarypeoplewithextraordinarylives.com

By Isaac Nelson - In the rebellion of Korah, the rebellion was ultimately against God and who He'd put in place as High Priest. The high priesthood foreshadowed Christ as our High Priest today. Without Christ's sacrifice, we'd all die from the plague of sin.

You are listening to the messages from Pastor Scott Tewell who is the Lead Pastor at Rosedale Baptist Church in Rosedale, MD. Each week we provide these messages to help you grow in your faith and find encouragement through God's Word.

I. Remember the ancient and arrogant antagonism between Jews and Gentiles, v11. II. Remember the sad alienation of the Gentiles, v12. III. Rejoice in the inclusive atonement of Christ, v13.

Revival Series 2026. Message 5 of 8 "Christianity Without Christ" Evangelist Leon Miller, Chambersburg, PA. 

In a world that is full of death and decay, what can it look like to truly live, fully alive in Christ?We hear the words "from dust you are and to dust you shall return" (Gen. 3:19), but those words don't just apply to a future state. Without Christ, we are spiritually dead, even in this life. But, that's not what Jesus wants for us.Jesus came that we may have life and have it to the full (John 10:10).Join us for this conversation as we reflect on what it looks like to live truly alive in Christ in this life.We hope you enjoy it!

There is a stability that comes from truly knowing Jesus. Colossians 2 shows us that we have been made alive, forgiven, and set free through the finished work of the cross. Salt Church in Wilmington, NC, led by Pastors Parker & Jessi Green, exists to know Jesus, worship Him, and do the works He did.Plan Your Visit to SALT Church:https://www.saltchurches.com/Ways to Support the Ministry:https://www.saltchurches.com/givingSubscribe:https://www.instagram.com/saltchurches/Subscribe @saltchurchNC Connect with Parker + Jessi Green:Instagram Parker / https://www.instagram.com/parkerrichardgreen/Instagram Jessi /https://www.instagram.com/jessi.green/Websites https://www.saltchurches.com/https://www.jessi-green.com/https://www.saturateglobal.com/#prayer #bible #biblestudy #saltchurch #revival #parkergreen #jessigreen

Evan Gaertner and Mike Yagley discuss how our identity is found in our relationship with God instead of our works. When our relationship is secured in the righteousness of Christ, then our will is free to share life with God and with other people. Without Christ, our lives are lived in bondage to our transactions. You can learn more by reading Dr. Martin Luther’s Bondage of the Will. Beer Break This episode features a beer from a Wisconsin brewery, Stubborn Brothers Brewery. Mike and his wife went for a ride in their camper around Lake Michigan. He had a great Reuben there and enjoyed the beer. American Wheat. Shawano has to be a great city because this is where this beer is from, but also because this is where Evan was born. Sweet Peel American Wheat.

Christianity without Christ? Many today make the mistake of assuming that the purpose of religion is simply to help people become moral and feel good. And if that's the case then Jesus isn't necessary. It reduces Christianity to a pamphlet instead of a person. However, if you notice, when Jesus called the disciples, He didn't say, “Follow this lifestyle.” He said, “Follow Me.” (This is an encore presentation which was aired originally on January 27, 2023)

The readings for this homily: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/012126.cfmMany people struggle with the Bible because they sense a tension between the Old Testament and the New. The God of the Old Testament is sometimes portrayed as harsh, violent, even distant, while the New Testament reveals mercy, healing, and love. Father Chris Alar, MIC addresses this confusion directly by reminding us of the question Christ Himself poses: “Is it lawful to do good on the sabbath rather than to do evil, to save life rather than to destroy it?” (Mk 3:4; NABRE).Without Christ, humanity's vision is limited. In the Old Testament, death, war, and violence reflect a world still waiting for the full revelation of divine life. The Catechism teaches that God gradually prepared His people to receive the Gospel through salvation history, leading them step by step toward Christ (Catechism of the Catholic Church §122). The New Testament does not contradict the Old; it fulfills it.This contrast becomes striking when we consider Saint Agnes, whose feast the Church celebrates. Her very name echoes the Latin agnus, meaning lamb. Young, pure, and wholly given to Christ, she chose life in the fullest sense, even when it led to martyrdom. Her witness stands between death and life, between the violence of the world and the light of Christ. As Scripture proclaims, “I came so that they might have life and have it more abundantly” (Jn 10:10; NABRE).The culture of death persists whenever Christ is rejected, whether in ancient persecution or modern disregard for human dignity. Yet Christ remains the Light of the world, drawing us from darkness into truth, from death into life. In Him alone do we find the way, the truth, and the life. ★ Support this podcast ★

As it states in Genesis 6:5, the intentions and “thoughts of [our] heart[s] [are] only evil continually.” Without Christ's forgiveness, we are sorely lost, thinking more highly of ourselves than we ought to think. As those who are redeemed, we cling to the promise of His mercy and go joyfully to Him in prayer with nothing but the certain knowledge of the forgiveness of sins. We receive this forgiveness on account of Christ, and it is on account of Him that we forgive others. Rev. Samuel Bobby, pastor of Redeemer Lutheran Church, Lincoln, NE, joins Rev. Brady Finnern to study the 5th Petition of the Lord's Prayer. To learn more about Redeemer Lutheran, visit redeemerlincoln.org. Find your copy of the Book of Concord - Concordia Reader's Edition at cph.org or read online at bookofconcord.org. Study the Lutheran Confession of Faith found in the Book of Concord with lively discussions led by host Rev. Brady Finnern, President of the LCMS Minnesota North District, and guest LCMS pastors. Join us as these Christ-confessing Concordians read through and discuss our Lutheran doctrine in the Book of Concord in order to gain a deeper understanding of our Lutheran faith and practical application for our vocations. Submit comments or questions to: listener@kfuo.org. 

As we look around, we see chaos everywhere. It seems like there's a different war every week! When there is lying and corruption involved, of course, chaos will ensue. Today, Pastor Ken says the only person who can save this world is Jesus. Without Christ, we're broken, but with Him we're redeemed. Rest in your relationship with Jesus today! He loves you and desires to be close to you. Even through your flaws, Jesus wants a relationship with you so He can fill your doubts with love and grace.

1. Knowing the Mystery2. Knowing Our Message3. Knowing Our PurposeToday's sermon explored the profound truth that every believer in Christ has been called by God for something far greater than anything we could accomplish on our own. Through the Apostle Paul's example as a prisoner of Christ, we examined how God revealed the mystery that Gentiles are fellow heirs with Jews in God's family. Paul, once a proud religious scholar who persecuted Christians, became a humble servant who considered himself "the least of all saints." His transformation reminds us that our conversion is not the end but the beginning of God's workmanship in our lives. We are called to be stewards of the Gospel, serving God with boldness and confident access through faith in Christ.Takeaways:- God has called each of us to serve Him. Like Paul, we must move beyond selective hearing and truly submit to God's calling on our lives. We are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works that He prepared beforehand for us to walk in.- Without Christ, we are nothing. Paul's humility teaches us that our effectiveness comes not from our own knowledge, titles, or abilities, but from the power of God working through us. We must be willing to become prisoners of Christ by our own free will, allowing Him to use us for His purposes.- We are called to preach the Gospel and be ready in season and out of season. In these last days, people around us are suffering, making bad choices, and need to hear that forgiveness of sins and a fresh start are possible. God's purpose for us is to serve as voices of reason and compassion in a dark world.As we move through this week, let us ask ourselves: Are we willing to be captive to Christ? Are we fulfilling our ministry by sharing the Good News that Jesus came, died, and rose again? May we never be too big for God to use, but humbly available for His service.

1. Knowing the Mystery2. Knowing Our Message3. Knowing Our PurposeToday's sermon explored the profound truth that every believer in Christ has been called by God for something far greater than anything we could accomplish on our own. Through the Apostle Paul's example as a prisoner of Christ, we examined how God revealed the mystery that Gentiles are fellow heirs with Jews in God's family. Paul, once a proud religious scholar who persecuted Christians, became a humble servant who considered himself "the least of all saints." His transformation reminds us that our conversion is not the end but the beginning of God's workmanship in our lives. We are called to be stewards of the Gospel, serving God with boldness and confident access through faith in Christ.Takeaways:- God has called each of us to serve Him. Like Paul, we must move beyond selective hearing and truly submit to God's calling on our lives. We are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works that He prepared beforehand for us to walk in.- Without Christ, we are nothing. Paul's humility teaches us that our effectiveness comes not from our own knowledge, titles, or abilities, but from the power of God working through us. We must be willing to become prisoners of Christ by our own free will, allowing Him to use us for His purposes.- We are called to preach the Gospel and be ready in season and out of season. In these last days, people around us are suffering, making bad choices, and need to hear that forgiveness of sins and a fresh start are possible. God's purpose for us is to serve as voices of reason and compassion in a dark world.As we move through this week, let us ask ourselves: Are we willing to be captive to Christ? Are we fulfilling our ministry by sharing the Good News that Jesus came, died, and rose again? May we never be too big for God to use, but humbly available for His service.

The Gospel of John Week 26 Scripture: John 20:19 - 21:25. Today's study will conclude our two year study of the Gospels with a dramatic and amazing ending. We begin with John 20:19, it is the first day of the week (Sunday) and the disciples were together with the doors locked for fear of the Jewish leaders. Suddenly Jesus was standing among them saying "Peace be with you." This is a phrase in English that sounds so common, like "have a good day." But in Hebrew it carries much more meaning. Shalom (peace) more than just an absence of conflict or warfare, it refers to all creation - it means everything is right between us and God. Real peace, lasting peace, God's peace, life-changing peace the way things were intended to be before sin broke into a perfect creation. Jesus shows them His hands and side and the disciples are overjoyed. Everything the Jewish people have been longing for has come to a dramatic crescendo. Then He breathed on them saying, "Receive the Holy Spirit."  In verse 23 Jesus says, "If you forgive anyone's sins, their sins are forgiven; if you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven." Pastor spends time digging into what this verse is really saying.  When we accept Jesus as our Savior our sins are forgiven through faith in Christ. But to those who say they don't need a Savior, that think they are just fine on their own, we can say to them, "That won't cut it. Without Christ there is no hope."  Acts 4:12 "And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved." This commission from Jesus is given so that they can speak truth, so that they can use it to draw people into a relationship with the Living God. We read next of "Doubting Thomas." The disciples are again gathered together and Jesus appears, "Peace be with you. Put your finger here and put your hand into my side and stop doubting and believe!" And Thomas replies, "My Lord and my God!" That's not just an expression, this is a clear biblical title for the Living God. And Thomas suddenly realized that Jesus is not only alive, but He is the very One that was promised. Jesus is more than a miracle worker, He's more than a great teacher, He is God come to earth. John concludes chapter 20 with these words, "Jesus performed many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not recorded in this book. But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name." We move into chapter 21, the epilogue. Pastor starts this chapter by sharing the story of a friend, a Russian Jew, who moved to Israel and became a Messianic believer and follower of Jesus. Pastor goes on to share the growth of Jewish believers in Jesus worldwide. Our story continues with the disciples fishing all night and not catching anything. Then a voice calls out to them to put their nets on the right side of the boat. When they do they were unable to haul the net in because of the large number of fish. John knows who the man is, "It is the Lord!" And Peter swims ashore. Pastor talks about the importance of the fire Jesus had started on shore to emphasize God's intentions. Jesus invites them to breakfast with Him but Jesus has a personal conversation with Peter. Purposefully, Jesus asks Peter 3 times (remember Peter denied knowing Jesus 3 times), "Do you love Me?" Peter responds yes each time and Jesus replies with, "Feed my sheep." Peter is forgiven, restored. This gospel ends with these dramatic words, "Jesus did many other things as well. If every one of them were written down, I suppose that even the whole world would not have room for the books that would be written." Jesus is in the business of redeeming and restoring and renewing, changing lives, transforming families, rebuilding communities, changing entire nations and continents. John is saying you've only caught a glimpse! Can you imagine the stories we're going to hear after Jesus returns! This is an incredible, amazing, uplifting, joyful, thought provoking, life-changing book! Thank you for joining us on this great two year tour of the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John! Our website – https://www.awakeusnow.com Watch the video from our website! https://www.awakeusnow.com/2-year-study-of-the-gospels-upper Watch the video from our YouTube Channel!! https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLTaaqrC3dMOzMkhPyiNWwlJRpV6Bwpu01     ⁃    The Gospel of John study is part five of five of our Two Year Study of the Gospels.      ⁃    The Gospel of John may be one of the most powerful books ever written. Many people have come to faith after reading only this book of the Bible.  Scholarly and archeological discoveries in recent decades give us new insight on details in the Gospel of John. We can now understand it as the most Jewish rather than the most "Gentile/Greek" of the Gospels, and and we see many things that we missed before.

This sermon emphasizes that Jesus Christ is the essential foundation of the Christmas holiday, arguing that secular celebrations lack true meaning without His presence. By citing various biblical passages, the text illustrates that the birth of the Messiah was a divine intervention intended to provide humanity with eternal salvation rather than temporary festive cheer. The author asserts that while decorations and gifts are pleasant, authentic joy and peace are only accessible through a personal relationship with the Savior. Ultimately, the source serves as a spiritual call to action, encouraging believers to prioritize worship and gratitude over the commercial aspects of the season. It concludes by highlighting that the transformation of the human heart is the greatest miracle associated with the Nativity story.

Christmas is increasingly reduced to a celebration of vague “positive values.” But if God did not truly become Man, everything else collapses. Fr. McTeigue examines what's at stake when the Incarnation is replaced with sentiment. Watch on YouTube: Christmas Without Christ?

Recorded March 9, 2025 - Sunday Morning Service

What happens when we leave Christ out of Christmas?

December 15, 2025Today's Reading: Isaiah 40:1-11Daily Lectionary: Isaiah 30:27-31:9; Revelation 3:1-22"A voice cries: ‘In the wilderness prepare the way of the LORD; make straight in the desert a highway for our God. Every valley shall be lifted up, and every mountain and hill be made low; the uneven ground shall become level, and the rough places a plain." (Isaiah 40:3-4)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.When John the Baptizer was asked who he was, he pointed to this verse from Isaiah. So, how did he change the landscape? By preaching repentance. Turns out people aren't generally keen on confessing their sins. The world is not a very forgiving place. We ourselves have been trained from the earliest ages to find reasons why our wrongs were actually rights. A child who is confronted with knocking over a lamp might blame a stuffed animal. That doesn't work, but our reasoning gets more sophisticated as we grow. It was a sibling's fault. It was a parent's fault for putting the lamp so close to the edge. It was an emergency, so haste was more important than the lamp. Whatever the reason, it doesn't matter. So long as someone believes it, we show ourselves to be right.We live in a world that demands self-righteousness. If you cannot justify yourself, you will be blamed. However, when people without faith sin in such a way that they cannot justify themselves, it breaks them. Guilt overwhelms them. All that self-justification was actually protection. And without it, people lose their minds, which is why confession and absolution in the Church is so weird to people. Why would anyone willingly put themselves through such guilt and shame? However, the repentance of a Christian has two parts. First is sorrow over our sin. That is the same as anyone else. It's the second part that is different. The second part is hope. A sure and certain hope that all our sin is forgiven. The guilt is made Christ's. The shame hangs on His shoulders. His blood pays for it. And His life is given for our salvation.Without Christ, we would make mountains to hide our sin behind. We would bury in whatever valley we could. But the way of the Lord leaves nowhere for our sin to hide. All our hiding places are made an open field, so the sin can all be seen. And so that Jesus can take it all away. That is why we are so willing to turn in repentance. That is why we willingly confess our sins. Because we know the one who takes them and makes them His. And they're ours no longer. In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Make ye straight what long was crooked; Make the rougher places plain. Let your hearts be true and humble, As befits His holy reign. For the glory of the Lord Now o'er earth is shed abroad, and all flesh shall see the token That His Word is never broken. (LSB 347:4)Author: Rev. Eli Davis, pastor of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Grants Pass, OR.Audio Reflections Speaker: Rev. Richard Heinz, pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Lowell, IN.Work through the first ten chapters of Matthew and learn more about who Jesus is. As you move through this study, you'll ponder the theological, practical, and historical considerations of the text. With ample room for personal notes, this study will have you feeling confident in your understanding of Matthew's Gospel. Matthew 1:1-11:1 of the new Concordia Commentary Bible Study Series is available now.

This morning, Hank continued our Advent series in Ephesians 2:13-18. As we consider our place in this world, we need to consider our status before God. Without Christ, we are hostile and enemies with God, through Christ, we are heirs of the kingdom and at peace with God. We hope the sermon blesses you in the Lord. Originally December 7th, 2025. Hank Atchison. Covenant Church. Tuscaloosa, AL,

Paul talks about some definite things that have brought these twogroups together who usually were at odds with one another. In the first versesof this chapter Paul is addressing both the Jews and the Gentiles. Paul tells bothJews and Gentiles that God has made alive those who were dead in trespasses andsins. Remember that a Gentile is anyone who is not born of Jewish descent. Paulreminds them and us how before salvation in Christ we are all dead in ourtrespasses and sins because sin works against us. We're disobedient. We'redepraved, and we're doomed, and we are children of wrath. But God, but God whois rich in His mercy with a great love that He's loved us. And with that loveHe has now brought us salvation and reconciliation and redemption by His graceand through our faith in Christ (vv. 4-9). God has a plan for our life and weare His workmanship, land He has before ordained before the foundation of theworld that we should walk in these wonderful works of God, the good works thatonly He can do through us and let the light of Christ shine out of us andthrough us to a dark world. Nowwe come to verse 11. Here Paul is particularly addressing theGentiles, those who are not of Jewish descent. First, He reminds them, you'recalled uncircumcision by what is called the circumcision (the Jews) made in theflesh by the hand. The Jews look down upon the Gentiles, calling them the uncircumcision.The Gentiles were like dogs in many cases for most of the Jewish people.  Inverse 12 Paul points out that the Gentiles were without Christ being aliensfrom the commonwealth of Israel and strangers from the covenant of promisehaving no hope and without God in the world. But now in Christ Jesus you whowere once a far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. The one wordthat best describes the Gentiles is without. They were “outside” in severalrespects. They were without Christ. They're without citizenship in the nationof Israel without the covenants. The covenants were given to Abraham and to hisseed.  BothJews and Gentiles were without hope. Historians tell us that a great cloud ofhopelessness covered the ancient world. Philosophies were empty; traditionswere disappearing; religions were powerless to help men face either life ordeath. People longed to pierce the veil and get some message of hope from theother side, but there was none (1 Thes. 4:13-18). Theywere without God. The heathen had gods aplenty, as Paul discovered in Athens(Acts 17:16-23). But the pagan, no matter how religious or moral he might have been,did not know the true God. The writer of Psalm 115 contrasted the true God withthe idols of the heathen. Itis worth noting that the spiritual plight of the Gentiles was caused not by Godbut by their own willful sin. Paul said the Gentiles knew the true God butdeliberately refused to honor Him (Rom. 1:18-23). Religious history is not arecord of man starting with many gods (idolatry) and gradually discovering theone true God. Rather, it is the sad story of man knowing the truth about Godand deliberately turning away from it! It is a story of devolution, notevolution! The first eleven chapters of Genesis give the story of the declineof the Gentiles; and from Genesis 12 on (the call of Abraham), it is the storyof the Jews. God separated the Jews from the Gentiles that He might be able tosave the Gentiles also. "Salvation is of the Jews" (John 4:22). Godcalled the Jews, beginning with Abraham, that through them He might revealHimself as the one true God. With the Jews He deposited His Word, and throughthe Jews He gave the world the Savior (Rom. 9:1-5). Israel was to be a light tothe Gentiles that they too might be saved. But sad to say, Israel became likethe Gentiles, and the light burned but dimly. This fact is a warning to thechurch today. When the church is least like the world, it does the most for theworld. 

What happens when a church goes through the motions but forgets the love that first ignited its faith?

Without Christ we were slaves, trying to earn God's approval, but Jesus redeemed us and adopted us as sons and daughters. Now we don't come to God by fear or performance, we come as family. Through the Holy Spirit, we get to enjoy access to our Father. Without access to the Father, we are slavesThe Son has given us access through adoptionThe Spirit enables us to enjoy our access Life Group Discussion:Where do you personally feel tempted to drift back into “slave mentality” in your walk with God?What experiences with earthly fathers or authority figures might affect how you view God as Father?What does it practically look like to enjoy God instead of just obeying Him from obligation?

Without Christ we were slaves, trying to earn God's approval, but Jesus redeemed us and adopted us as sons and daughters. Now we don't come to God by fear or performance, we come as family. Through the Holy Spirit, we get to enjoy access to our Father. Without access to the Father, we are slavesThe Son has given us access through adoptionThe Spirit enables us to enjoy our access Life Group Discussion:Where do you personally feel tempted to drift back into “slave mentality” in your walk with God?What experiences with earthly fathers or authority figures might affect how you view God as Father?What does it practically look like to enjoy God instead of just obeying Him from obligation?

Welcome Graham fam! We are so glad you could watch Sunday morning online with us. IntroductionWe have been talking about receiving a new heart. You need the desire to receive it. You must decide to have the transplant. If you do, you will receive a brand new tender and responsive heart. It will not be a weak heart, but a powerful heart with a purpose! Without Christ, our hearts wander from thing to thing. We seek purpose and meaning in many places, but God offers a heart with meaning and purpose through Christ. ScriptureHebrews 8:8–12“The day is coming, says the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the people of Israel and Judah… I will put my laws in their minds, and I will write them on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people… And I will forgive their wickedness, and I will never again remember their sins.” Additional Scriptures: Psalm 49:7–9; Philippians 3:7–8 Points God gives a promise! He initiated the covenant, paid the price, and offers fellowship now and forever. (Psalm 49:7–9; Philippians 3:7–8) God gives obedience! His Spirit writes His law on our hearts, transforming our desires and enabling us to live in freedom and joy. God gives fellowship! We are invited into partnership with God—sharing His purpose and experiencing true satisfaction. God gives purpose! A calling that impacts eternity and sets us free to challenge the status quo of this world for His glory. If you would like to watch our past services, you can do so here: https://gcwesleyan.org/teaching/ Like and subscribe to our new YouTube channel, Graham Chapel Youth! We are producing some funny videos as well as live streaming our Wednesday night youth group: https://is.gd/grahamyouth. If you would like to give to Graham Chapel, you can do so here: https://gcwesleyan.org/give/ Graham Chapel Wesleyan Church is in Mayo, SC which is near Cowpens and Chesnee in Spartanburg County, South Carolina. We are affiliated with the Wesleyan denomination and have a diverse congregation. We would love to have you join us on Sunday mornings in person, or on Wednesdays with our youth! Visit our website to learn more.

Are you running the wrong race? Ecclesiastes 6 gives us two striking examples of people who looked like winners but were actually losing. One man had wealth, possessions, and honor. The other had a large family and a long life. Yet both lacked the one thing that matters most—a relationship with God. In this episode, Stephen Davey takes you to Solomon's sobering observations about life “under the sun.” Success, family, possessions, and status can all be good gifts. But without God, they quickly become heavy burdens that leave the soul unsatisfied. Solomon himself serves as a case study: famous, wealthy, and powerful, yet weighed down with emptiness. The truth is, life is not about how far you get ahead or how fast you run. It's about balancing what truly matters: knowing God, walking with Him, and enjoying His gifts with gratitude. Without Christ, even a thousand years of living and a house full of children lead to futility. With Christ, even ordinary days are filled with meaning. Join Stephen in this Wisdom Journey lesson as he unpacks the rules of life's race and points you to the only One who can give true satisfaction. Stephen Davey's newest book, The Disciples Prayer, is available now. https://www.wisdomonline.org/store/view/the-disciples-prayer-hardback

Are you running the wrong race? Ecclesiastes 6 gives us two striking examples of people who looked like winners but were actually losing. One man had wealth, possessions, and honor. The other had a large family and a long life. Yet both lacked the one thing that matters most—a relationship with God. In this episode, Stephen Davey takes you to Solomon's sobering observations about life “under the sun.” Success, family, possessions, and status can all be good gifts. But without God, they quickly become heavy burdens that leave the soul unsatisfied. Solomon himself serves as a case study: famous, wealthy, and powerful, yet weighed down with emptiness. The truth is, life is not about how far you get ahead or how fast you run. It's about balancing what truly matters: knowing God, walking with Him, and enjoying His gifts with gratitude. Without Christ, even a thousand years of living and a house full of children lead to futility. With Christ, even ordinary days are filled with meaning. Join Stephen in this Wisdom Journey lesson as he unpacks the rules of life's race and points you to the only One who can give true satisfaction. Stephen Davey's newest book, The Disciples Prayer, is available now. https://www.wisdomonline.org/store/view/the-disciples-prayer-hardback

Without Christ, we are spiritually dead. But in Ephesians 2:1–10, Paul reminds us of the hope we have through Jesus—God's mercy, grace, and love make us alive in Him. In Sunday's message, Pastor Josh unpacks the reality of sin, the power of salvation, and the vision God is calling us into as a church. As we look to the future, we want to gather together and go together, so more family members, friends, and neighbors experience new life in Christ. // Verses and message notes: www.theridge.church/notes // Join us online or in person Sundays at 9a + 11a: www.theridge.church/live

The positive command to rejoice in the Lord includes the negative command to cease exalting in human standards. Stop taking so seriously your resume or your portfolio or lack of one. Without Christ, these are nothing but false paths to an illusive dream of a good life. Trash that story as your primary life narrative. Jump into your participation in the big Story of Jesus. That's a way to joy. And to find how all those skills and all that training really fits into a life lived for the glory of God.

Without Christ working in us we are all bound to a life of sin and consequences that could've been avoided had we heeded wise instruction from Scripture. Rather than living childish lives that run after the pleasures of the world, we need to submit to God and allow Him to change us from the inside out.

A global call for unity. World faith leaders join hands. The Pope declares peace is the only path forward. But what if this ‘peace'… is a prophetic setup? What if unity without Jesus isn't hope — it's deception? This isn't just politics or religion — it's the fulfillment of Bible prophecy in real time. Today, we expose the spiritual danger behind the headlines. This is False Peace, Real Prophecy — and you need to hear this. --------------- 📚: Check out Jerusalem Prophecy College Online for less than $60 per course: https://jerusalemprophecycollege.com 📱: It's never been easier to understand. Stream Only Source and access exclusive content: https://watch.osn.tv/browse   ⭐️: Birch Gold: Claim your free info kit on gold: https://www.birchgold.com/endtime ☕️: First Cup Coffee: use code ENDTIME to get 10% off: https://www.firstcup.com 💵: American Financing: Begin saving today: https://www.americanfinancing.net/endtime Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices