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The proverbs (truths obscurely expressed, maxims, and parables) of Solomon son of David, king of Israel: 2 [a]That people may know skillful and godly [b]Wisdom and instruction, discern and comprehend the words of understanding and insight, 3 Receive instruction in wise dealing and the discipline of wise thoughtfulness, righteousness, justice, and integrity, 4 That prudence may be given to the simple, and knowledge, discretion, and discernment to the youth— 5 The wise also will hear and increase in learning, and the person of understanding will acquire skill and attain to sound counsel [so that he may be able to steer his course rightly]— 6 That people may understand a proverb and a figure of speech or an enigma with its interpretation, and the words of the wise and their dark sayings or riddles. 7 The reverent and worshipful fear of the Lord is the beginning and the principal and choice part of knowledge [its starting point and its essence]; but fools despise skillful and godly Wisdom, instruction, and discipline. 8 My son, hear the instruction of your father; reject not nor forsake the teaching of your mother. 9 For they are a [victor's] chaplet (garland) of grace upon your head and chains and pendants [of gold worn by kings] for your neck. 10 My son, if sinners entice you, do not consent. 11 If they say, Come with us; let us lie in wait [to shed] blood, let us ambush the innocent without cause [and show that his piety is in vain]; 12 Let us swallow them up alive as does Sheol (the place of the dead), and whole, as those who go down into the pit [of the dead]; 13 We shall find and take all kinds of precious goods [when our victims are put out of the way], we shall fill our houses with plunder; 14 Throw in your lot with us [they insist] and be a sworn brother and comrade; let us all have one purse in common— 15 My son, do not walk in the way with them; restrain your foot from their path; 16 For their feet run to evil, and they make haste to shed blood. 17 For in vain is the net spread in the sight of any bird! 18 But [when these men set a trap for others] they are lying in wait for their own blood; they set an ambush for their own lives. 19 So are the ways of everyone who is greedy of gain; such [greed for plunder] takes away the lives of its possessors. 20 [c]Wisdom cries aloud in the street, she raises her voice in the markets; 21 She cries at the head of the noisy intersections [in the chief gathering places]; at the entrance of the city gates she speaks: 22 How long, O simple ones [open to evil], will you love being simple? And the scoffers delight in scoffing and [self-confident] fools hate knowledge? 23 If you will turn (repent) and give heed to my reproof, behold, I [[d]Wisdom] will pour out my spirit upon you, I will make my words known to you. 24 Because I have called and you have refused [to answer], have stretched out my hand and no man has heeded it, 25 And you treated as nothing all my counsel and would accept none of my reproof, 26 I also will laugh at your calamity; I will mock when the thing comes that shall cause you terror and panic— 27 When your panic comes as a storm and desolation and your calamity comes on as a whirlwind, when distress and anguish come upon you. 28 Then will they call upon me [Wisdom] but I will not answer; they will seek me early and diligently but they will not find me. 29 Because they hated knowledge and did not choose the reverent and worshipful fear of the Lord, 30 Would accept none of my counsel, and despised all my reproof, 31 Therefore shall they eat of the fruit of their own way and be satiated with their own devices. 32 For the backsliding of the simple shall slay them, and the careless ease of [self-confident] fools shall destroy them. 33 But whoso hearkens to me [Wisdom] shall dwell securely and in confident trust and shall be quiet, without fear or dread of evil. Footnotes Proverbs 1:2 Over the doors of the school of Plato these words were written in Greek, “Let no one enter who is not a geometrician.” But Solomon opens wide the doors of his proverbs with a special message of welcome to the unlearned, the simple, the foolish, the young, and even to the wise—that all “will hear and increase in learning” (Prov. 1:5). Proverbs 1:2 A key term in the book of Proverbs, “Wisdom” is capitalized throughout, as God's design for living and as a reminder of Christ, Whom the apostle Paul calls “the wisdom of God... in Whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge” (I Cor. 1:24; Col. 2:3 kjv). Proverbs 1:20 Wisdom here is personified. Read “the Wisdom of God” instead of “Wisdom” and see the wonderful power of this book.
God's Word is packed full of power … power unlimited … to transform your life. But one of the biggest problems people have with the Bible is understanding it. Making sense of it. Knowing where it comes from, and where what they're reading today fits into the big picture. Well, I think it's time we did something about that. About the Bible – Old and New We've all heard of those word association tests that psychologists use. You know, they say 'black', you say 'white'; they say 'rabbit' and you say 'carrot'; day/night; God/mmm love; devil/mmm evil; Bible/hmm … Bible? How do you respond to that? Stuffy, old, irrelevant? Well, different people will have some different views but actually in Australia where I live, the Bible is one of the least trusted of all historical documents. Over the last week and a bit on the program we've been talking about the incredible power that we unlock, when we read the Bible. But this thing that we call "the Bible", it's a big book, it's massive and it can be daunting. So today I thought it might be useful just to have a look to see what this Bible is exactly. I want to share with you a secret, it's sad but true. I never read a book cover to cover until I was in my early twenties. I managed to get through school and university and did pretty well I might add, without ever reading a book from beginning to end. I remember at university, in first year English, we studied the book Wuthering Heights which absolutely bored me to tears, I'm sorry and I never opened the book once. There are companies that publish crib notes, you know the summary of the book and a summary of what's in it and a summary of what some of the critics say, so I just quickly read those, crib notes, wrote essays and did, by and large, reasonably well. And I never, ever liked libraries either. You know how libraries have this kind of dusty, dank smell; all of them are the same. Every library on the planet has the same smell. I thought about it for a while, I thought 'Berni, why don't you like libraries? Why did it take you so long to read books?' The answer I guess has two parts. Firstly, libraries for me always felt really big and inaccessible. They have tens of thousands of books and in the old days when I was at university, they had card systems for accessing, for finding things, I mean these days they have computers. The old card systems had what they call the Dewey Classification system and finding anything just took so incredibly long. And secondly, when you did find the stuff, there was always so much of it, there was so much time involved to, I don't know, look through all those books and research them. I mean, some people are natural book worms, well I'm not. I still frankly don't like libraries. I'm sorry if you're a librarian, I just don't like libraries. I haven't darkened the doorstep of one since I finished my last degree quite a few years ago now. You know something; I think for a lot of people the Bible is exactly like that. It feels big and inaccessible. There are many, many people who wouldn't mind having a read but, for goodness sakes, where do you start? Well today let's break it down a bit, let's make it a bit more accessible. I remember when I started Bible College only a few months after becoming a Christian, everyone took for granted that we knew about the Bible. The reality was, I didn't and my hunch is, I wasn't alone. Let's unpack it a bit, let's demystify it a bit. All of a sudden you know it becomes a whole bunch more accessible. The thing that we call the Bible is made up of 66 different books written by different people over somewhere between 1,000 and 1,500 years. That's the kind of period over which the Bible was written. And it wasn't just written by different people but at different times and the last book was written, well almost 2,000 years ago. There are essentially two parts to the Bible, this was complete news to me when I first opened it, the Old Testament and the New Testament, and when I started at Bible College I didn't know which one was which. The Old Testament, well the Old Testament is God's story and the story of how He interacted with and engaged with His chosen people, the Israelites. The Old Testament is written completely B.C., before Christ, before Jesus came to be on earth with us here. What Christians call the Old Testament is in fact exactly the same as the Jewish Hebrew scriptures, Jews still use those same scriptures today, Christians call it the Old Testament. It's written mostly in the original language of Hebrew, the language of the Jews. Now there's small parts of books like Daniel which is written in a language called Aramaic which is the language that Jesus actually spoke but by and large, the Old Testament was originally written in the language of Hebrew. And what we have today, the thing that we call the Old Testament is an English translation of that. Now there are lots of funny name books, Deuteronomy and Judges and Chronicles and there's Ezekiel, there are 39 separate books and there are kind of 4 main parts of the Old Testament. The first 5 books, Genesis to Deuteronomy, are the Jewish or Hebrew Law, the Torah. And then you go Joshua through Ezra and Nehemiah and that's kind of the history of what God did and how His people responded. And then after that are the wisdom books, Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Solomon and Lamentations. And the rest of the books in the Old Testament are written by men called Prophets. Men whom God called to call His people back to Him. That's the Old Testament, it's a story of God engaging with Gods people. And the New Testament is 27 books. Now, it was mostly written in the language of Greek. The first 4 books, Matthew, Mark, Luke and John are gospel accounts, they're the historical account of Jesus' life and His ministry. And the next book, the book of Acts is the story of the first 20 or so years of the Church after Jesus rose again to be with His Father. Then there's a whole bunch of letters called Epistles from people like Peter and John and Paul, written to Churches that they were involved in or in some cases, to individuals. This may be old hat to some, but I know to many, just a simple understanding of the basic structure of the Bible is going to be a real help. I know that when I was a new Christian, no one ever bothered to explain it to me – I wish they had. Now some people might be saying to themselves, that's all well and good, but how accurate is the Bible. Because before the printing press was ever invented by Gutenberg in 1450, the Bible – there's this massive thing, the Old Testament and New Testament – was transcribed over and over by hand by people called Scribes who copied them by hand. It's hard to imagine. But these days, there's a science called Textual Criticism. It studies whether any errors crept into the Bible as it was copied through all these generations manuscripts. And what it tells us, is that having studied thousands of manuscripts, the levels of accuracy are remarkable. I mean it's a science, people have done it. There are very, very few words or sentences where there is any doubt what was originally written. And blessedly these days, this thing called the Bible has been translated into easy to read, contemporary versions. No more thee's and thou's – great, modern day, accurate, easy to understand translations. And did you know that in the Bible, over half of the 66 books, over half, you can read in half and hour or less. Now look, in a few minutes we can't hope to do anything but scrape the surface. Today we've just talked about some basic factual stuff. No-one really taught me this stuff. I remember becoming a Christian and going and sitting in a Church and people just teach from the Bible which is wonderful but no-one ever explained to me that it was 66 books written by a whole bunch of people over different periods of time. That some of it was stories and history and some of it was letters and some of it was poetry. But when you simplify and demystify all that stuff, it turns out that it's just a wonderful book. And with the many contemporary translations, it's much, much easier to read than I ever thought. As I started to read the Gospels – Matthew, Mark, Luke and John in the New Testament, I was completely blown away by this amazing Jesus. Who would have thought … the Bible. Getting Practical – Useful Resources I have to tell you, that thing they call the Bible was a real problem for me. I mean, first coming to grips with the fact that it is what it says that it is, the Word of God but then, just getting into it. It's made up of 66 separate books written over about 1,500 years in different times, in different places and different cultures. So there are words and names and places and concepts and ways of thinking … well, we're not always familiar with them. We're continuing in our series 'Power Unlimited' – because that's what Go's Word brings into our lives so today, we're going to get down and really practical on just how to get into the Bible because unless we do, we're going to miss out on much of the power that God wants to pour into our lives. Over the years I've discovered a few very simple helps or resources that have made such a difference in making sense of God's Word. You see, it turns out there's a whole bunch of people much smarter than me who have done some great research and put the information together in such easy usable ways and all their work makes getting into God's Word, the Bible, so much easier for the likes of you and me. Today I just want to share some of those resources with you. I remember twenty or so years ago, just after I became a Christian, I started attending a tiny little Baptist Church in the southern suburbs of Sydney. A little place called Oyster Bay. Our pastor, Phil, was a passionate and gifted Bible teacher and that man has had a huge impact on my life. Now as well as Sunday services, the Church used to have these little home Bible studies and we'd meet one night a week in someone's house. In our small group, five of us would gather together. And at the time, the particular little home fellowship that I'd joined, was studying the Old Testament book of Hosea. So we'd lob in there each Wednesday evening, we'd have a cup of tea and some fellowship and then we'd sit down and do a Bible study together. And right through that book, over and over and over again, Hosea talks about Ephraim – that word is mentioned 29 times by Hosea. So I remember asking these people, most of them had been Christians for a good many years, "Okay, who or what is this Ephraim thing?" I mean, Hosea kept talking about it and so it seemed to be quite central to what he was saying. But you know something, no-one could tell me who or what Ephraim was. Now it turns out the Ephraim was one of the tribes of Israel, Ephraim was one of Joseph's sons and there's a whole history around this tribe and how they rebelled against God, but we didn't know that in that Bible study so a lot of what God was saying to us, through this amazing, powerful book of Hosea, well it was frankly lost on us. And that sort of thing happens a lot more than you might think. Consider the story of the Good Samaritan. It loses its whole meaning if we don't understand the Samaritans and who they were and what the Jews thought of them. Now when Jesus told that story to the assembled masses they all knew the Samaritan story but we don't, it's not natural to us. And there are names and places and concepts and ways of thinking in the Bible that are foreign to us, because we're separated from them by time and culture. It might have made sense to the people back then but not to us now. And unless we understand those things, we miss out on the richness, on the gravity, on the power of what God is trying to say to us. I remember coming to grips with the Jewish system of blood sacrifice in the Old Testament. Now I kind of think about blood sacrifice and it's pretty ghastly to me here and now, but it's something I really had to understand to understand what Jesus did for me on the Cross. So I decided I was going to find out, not just skim the surface, not read through a story and have them talk about Ephraim or Samaria or all these other things I didn't know about and miss out on what God was trying to say to me through the story. Now these accounts were written such a long time ago and God has preserved them and kept them accurate for us here and now but there is indeed a gap of culture and time in history that we have to bridge to understand completely what's happening in what's been written. I mean after all if the Bible is God's Word and if God is speaking to us through it, I decided I needed to know what He was saying. And surprisingly, that's not as difficult as I thought it would be. Right now, I'm going to talk about a handful of really simple resources that made absolutely the world of difference. The first one was my Bible, a simple English translation, not the King James with the 'thees' and 'thou arts', there are so many good contemporary language translations available to you and me today. The New International Version or the NIV as it's called, is really popular. I happen to use the New Revised Standard Version (the NRSV). There's a translation called The Message which is really in here and now language. The Contemporary English Version (CEV). The New English Translation (NET). Which one is the best one? The one you're going to read. You can get a thing called A Study Bible, it's got not just the words of the Bible, but it's also got a huge amount of resources packed into it. It explains the meanings of different words, there are notes and maps and cross references. They're really good, they don't cost a whole bunch more than a Bible with just the Bible words. So if you want to do more than just skim across the surface, it's really good to have one of those – a Study Bible. Check them out. One of the most helpful features in a Study Bible is a summary of each book: who wrote it, when, to whom and why because context is so important isn't it? Before I read Ephesians I read four or five paragraphs in my Study Bible which explain the context and all of a sudden the book of Ephesians made a whole bunch more sense to me. A Study Bible is a really worthwhile investment and it's not much more than an ordinary Bible. You can get one from a Christian bookshop or you can buy one online. I happen to have an electronic one these days on my tablet device. The second resource is my Bible dictionary. Now I happen to purchase a Bible dictionary called the Holman Bible Dictionary, years ago – it's just one, single volume. You can get Bible dictionaries that are 25 volumes, mine is just one volume and it has pictures. So when I was reading and it talked about the Temple in the Bible, I could go to my Bible dictionary and look at it and see a picture and plans and explaining the different parts. So I'm able to read a few paragraphs in just a few minutes, and I'm there, I understand what the writers saying about the Temple, about the Holy of Holies, wow! When the Bible talks about Ephraim I look it up, half a column, three minutes, I know who or what Ephraim is. The story of the Good Samaritan; who were the Samaritans? What was their relationship to the Jews? Ah! That's what Jesus meant by the story of the Good Samaritan. And lastly, the third resource was a Bible timeline. It's one of these things you can fold out and it's about four pages wide that show the chronology of the Bible. You read about King David, when was he king? Who was King before him? Who was King after him? What else was going on? Which prophets were writing when David was alive? And all of a sudden you put the whole Bible thing in time sequence, that's huge. And just to top things off, let me tell you about two stunning websites. The first is biblegateway.com where you can compare different Bible translations. The second is studylight.org, it has Bible dictionaries online, the meanings of Greek and Hebrew words, and so many more great resources. All free. So let me ask you? Do you take Jesus seriously? If you do then we need to take the Bible seriously. And for just a small investment on your part in just a few simple resources, they pay such huge dividends in hearing and understanding what God is saying to us today through His Word. Listen and Learn If you spend anytime with me here on the program one of the things you will know is that I'm really passionate about God and what He has to say. Not in a religious sort of a way but in a Jesus sort of way. The thing that really strikes me about Jesus when you read about Him, is how plain and matter of fact He was about sharing with people who God is and what His plans are. Over these last couple of weeks on the program we've been looking at what it means to lay hold of God's power unlimited, God's resurrection power that's available to you, as you open His Word the Bible and listen to what He has to say. The Bible is God speaking to us and He means to challenge us and stretch us and encourage us and bless us through His Word. One of the ways that many people get God's Word into them is by listening to people speak. Radio programs like this or on television and of course, if you attend a Church. But how can preaching and teaching be a part of really getting God's Word into us? Over these last twenty years or so, the time that I've been a Christian, I've seen two things. On the one hand I have been so blessed by some really good teaching and on the other hand I've seen some pretty bad stuff too. In my very first Church, a little Baptist Church, our pastor's name was Phil Littlejohn. Now Phil was a gifted teacher, he just had this ability to open God's Word and speak God stuff into my heart. I learned later this is a real gifting, different people have different gifts and abilities given to them by God and teaching is one of them. Jesus had that, I mean time and time again when He opened His mouth people were amazed because He spoke with a plainness and a power and an authority that they hadn't heard before. And you know something, He didn't always tell them things they wanted to hear. "Love your enemy." "Take up your cross and follow me." "Lose your life for my sake and you'll gain your life." It's not exactly good marketing, I mean the spin merchants would not have let Him get up and speak like that today. I've spent quite a bit of time looking at how Jesus preached. It's real, it's powerful. It's balanced on the one hand and radical on the other and it sort of, well, it cuts through all the selfish rubbish we go on with, right to the heart of what God wants to talk about. And my prayer is that when I discharge my gifting to teach in my own way, I'll always try to teach like He did. But you know I've also sat in Churches over the years and listened to preachers drone on with dry and theoretical, completely cerebral stuff, that's not relevant to my life. On more than one occasion I've walked out after church and two hours later I ask myself "Do I remember what he talked about?" And the answer is, "No, not really." Or you listen to other speakers and there are lots of words and they're very entertaining and they make people laugh and they tickle their ears with great stories and things they want to hear and they yell and people slap them on the back afterwards, 'praise the Lord' but I've been to some of those too and well, I felt like I'd been at the Lord's table to be fed but I left hungry and empty. The flip side of that is that with some other preachers, I can remember years later what they were talking about, years later in difficult circumstances God seems to bring into my heart the words they spoke to me. Preaching and teaching is one of the ways that God gets His Word into us. You see it right through the Bible; He uses men and women to speak to others, to teach them. I mean the Samaritan woman at the well; she went and told people about Jesus. Paul and Peter and all the other guys that went out preaching. The question is, how do you get the most out of that? How does preaching and teaching play a part in us reading our Bible and unlocking the power unlimited that God has for us? Well, here are just some of my observations. I see people come into a Church on a Sunday and listen to the preacher and they don't take any notes and they don't bring their Bible and they don't follow what the preacher's saying in their Bible. I take my Bible with me, I open my Bible and I read what the preacher is talking about. People can speak all the words that they like, everything that they say, they can crack jokes and have great stories – the most important thing is God's Word, the most important thing is what God is saying. And secondly I take some notes. I mean you can't even get through kindergarten on a half an hour a week without taking notes. You know, if we take God seriously, if we want to follow Jesus and really take that seriously, you know something, we've got to take learning seriously. Do you know what a disciple is? A disciple is literally "a learner", that's what the word disciple means, to be a learner. And thirdly, the thing I do when I've listened to some really good preaching, is I spend some time afterwards in God's Word reading it for myself. Sometimes it's not until you get home and you pray it through and you spend some time in that passage and maybe looking at some other related ones, that God really drops it into your spirit. I mean, years ago I heard a preacher teaching on a profound passage: 1 Peter 5:6,7: Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God so that He may exalt you in due time. Cast all your cares on Him because He cares for you. Now I've learnt so much from what God taught me through that preacher in this passage but I've learned just as much and maybe even more from pondering and praying over this scripture and looking at other related passages. Learning in my heart – that's when I humble myself, when I get off my little tin pot throne and just walk each day faithfully with God. He's the one who later opens the doors; He's the one that's got an eternity ready for me. I've looked at this whole thing of preaching, and listened to some incredibly sermons and some dreadful ones too, I've come to the conclusion that there are two types of preaching; dead and alive. Dead preaching is full of words, it's boring and dry or maybe it's hyped up and frothy and bubbly but at the end of the day, there's no eternal food there because God's Word is not being preached in the power of the Holy Spirit. It's only God's Word by the power of the Spirit that can change us. I can't change you, I can't say things in my own strength that will change your life, but if I'm speaking God's stuff, if the Holy Spirit somehow takes God's stuff and puts it into your heart, that's when change happens and only God can do that. This is how the Apostle Paul put it: 1 Cor 2:1-5: When I came to you, brothers and sisters, I did not come proclaiming the mystery of God to you in lofty words or wisdom. For I decided to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ, and him crucified. And I came to you in weakness and in fear and in much trembling. My speech and my proclamation were not with plausible words of wisdom, but with a demonstration of the Spirit and of power, so that your faith might rest not on human wisdom but on the power of God Can I encourage you to be discerning as to what you listen to? Go and listen to the preachers who are proclaiming God's Word in the power of the Holy Spirit.. Go and have a read about how Jesus preached in the Gospels Matthew or Mark or Luke or John, the first four books of the New Testament. It's edgy and profound and real and dealing with the hard issues, and find yourself some preachers like that. Not ones that just entertain and tickle your ears with things you want to hear. The ones that open up God's Word and say, 'Well, what's God saying to us today?' and then take what they said home, open your Bible there where they left off and go and lay hold of God's power unlimited for you, for your life.
Are you truly following Jesus or just attending church? In this powerful message, we explore the Return Path of God's Love and Jesus' simple, proven method for making disciples.Jesus didn't complicate it — He led people to salvation, taught them the Word, prayed for them, checked on them, corrected their character, and then sent them out. This is the biblical model we must return to.In this sermon you'll discover:• Why love is the true measure of spiritual maturity• How the Word + Power of God work together• The difference between gifting and maturity• Why discipleship must look like family• How to avoid the "broken telephone" in the churchThis is not just teaching — this is a call to action.If you're ready to stop consuming and start reproducing the life of Jesus, this message will ignite something in you.
Paul was afraid for the young church he had been forced to leave in the city of Thessalonica. They were three weeks old and facing severe suffering for their choice to follow Christ. Paul's great concern, and the reason he sent Timothy to the people, was that in the midst of their trials they would have been tempted to abandon the faith. Wonder of wonders, that our passage this week is filled with Paul's thankfulness to God, that the young and seemingly ill-equipped church has not faded, but flourished in faith, love, and hope. Their faith became a model throughout the surrounding region and beyond. How can such a thing be possible? This church shouldn't have survived, let alone become a model to imitate. Human wisdom says this is very unlikely, if not impossible. The answer is they are a people chosen by a God who loves them. For this reason alone, the gospel they received was not simply words, but power, with the Holy Spirit, and conviction. What great power is bestowed upon those the Lord loves and has chosen? A power grounded in the reception and conviction of the word– power that results in a people of faith, love, and hope in Jesus, sharing in the glory of his suffering.
When we look at a map, we see rigid lines dividing nations. But who drew them? Surprisingly, it wasn't always politicians with pens; often, it was merchants with camels. In this episode, we explore how ancient trade routes—from the Silk Road to the Amber Road—etched the political boundaries we recognize today. We will discuss how the flow of commodities created arteries of power, and in doing so, we will master ten advanced English vocabulary words that will help you discuss history, politics, and geography with sophistication. To unlock full access to all our episodes, become a premium subscriber on Apple Podcasts or Patreon. And don't forget to visit englishpluspodcast.com for more content and learning. SPECIAL THANKS to my Executive Producer: Rada Sazhin Bronze Sponsor: Breno Miranda
Nostalgia is more than just a feeling; it's a complex psychological mechanism that can comfort us or hold us back. In this episode, we dive deep into the human tendency to glorify the "good old days." We will explore the science behind why certain songs or smells trigger deep memories, and in the process, we will learn key advanced English vocabulary to help you describe your own past with nuance and precision. Join us for a journey into the bygone eras of our minds. To unlock full access to all our episodes, become a premium subscriber on Apple Podcasts or Patreon. And don't forget to visit englishpluspodcast.com for more content and learning.
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Pastor Bob's message, “The Book of Acts: The Word & Power Church,” highlights the transformative role of preaching in the life of the early church and in our lives today. Drawing from Acts 2, he reminds us that preaching is God's chosen means to awaken hearts and change lives, just as Peter's sermon led to the salvation of 3,000 souls. Pastor Bob emphasizes that true power comes from Scripture itself, not from stories or opinions, and urges us to keep every message centered on Jesus—the source of our hope, redemption, and life.
WORD Power- Pastor Glover
What if I told you morphology isn't too advanced for young readers—it's actually the missing piece that makes decoding, spelling, and vocabulary stick? In this episode, I'm joined by two of my favorite literacy leaders, Michelle Sullivan and Sarah Paul, to talk all things morphology. We unpack what it is, why it matters from the very start of reading instruction, and how to make it engaging and approachable for even our youngest students. CLICK HERE FOR FULL SHOW NOTES
ROSH HASHANAH 2 WORD POWER
Do you need an MMP if you just use Google? Or Meta? Or TikTok, or Apple Ads? Interestingly, you really, really do, even if you're using the free tier, because it unlocks so much more data and insight.In this episode of Growth Masterminds, host John Koetsier sits down with Owen Farmer from Dynamic Apps to explore the world of app development and marketing. Owen shares his journey of creating apps since the age of 13, and the success story of his popular vocabulary app, Word Power. We talk about the importance of marketing measurement platforms (MMPs) like Singular, the critical role of creative in Meta ads, and the strategies behind effective paid marketing campaigns. Owen also discusses his transition from organic growth to leveraging Apple Search Ads and Meta ads, as well as his decision to adopt a subscription model. This episode offers valuable insights for both new and experienced app developers and marketers, highlighting the importance of focus, user expectations, and aligning product development with marketing strategies.00:00 Do you really need an MMP?01:46 Owen's Journey: From Timer App to Vocab Success04:59 Marketing Strategies: From Organic to Paid06:15 The Role of Meta Ads and Campaign Optimization08:22 Subscription Models and Monetization15:34 Balancing Product Development and Marketing20:51 The Importance of Focus and Product-Market Fit22:50 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
June 22 - What's In A Word: Power | Stacy Ikard by WHPC
Nutrition Nugget! Bite-size bonus episodes offer tips, tricks and approachable science. This week, Jenn is talking about semantic satiation—a surprisingly powerful brain trick that can help shift your mindset around words that make you flinch. Ever had a word that just bothers you when you hear it—like “hunger,” “bikini,” or even “no”? What if you could take the emotional charge out of it entirely? Tune in to learn how semantic satiation can rewire your brain and transform your relationship with language. Like what you're hearing? Be sure to check out the full-length episodes of new releases every Wednesday. Have an idea for a nutrition nugget? Submit it here: https://asaladwithasideoffries.com/index.php/contact/ RESOURCES:Become A Member of Salad with a Side of FriesJenn's Free Menu PlanA Salad With a Side of FriesA Salad With A Side Of Fries MerchA Salad With a Side of Fries InstagramGoing Against the TextbookNeuro Linguistic Programming & Saying No (feat. Suzanne Culberg)
Throughout the early chapters of Mark, Jesus' emphasis on the kingdom and His authority has been central. The kingdom of God is His rule and reign, which is a present reality and a future fulfillment. As Christ came preaching and working miracles, we saw the fullness of God's kingdom breaking into the present reality of this fallen creation. Jesus demonstrated His authority to bring God's kingdom and called people to enter through repentance and faith (Mark 1:14-15). Yet, we have seen wildly different responses to Jesus in Mark's presentation. It does not look like Jesus' message and the kingdom of God is gaining traction among the people. Last week in Mark 4:1-20, Jesus explained these responses with the parable of the soils. He presented three soils that bore no fruit and one that bore fruit abundantly. After explaining its meaning, Jesus calls His disciples to "pay attention to what you hear," giving several reasons why this is so important. We must give heed to the word because everything hidden will come to light (v. 21-22), and the way one responds to the word (seed) will shape one's future (v. 23-25). Those who have will be given more, and those who do not will lose what they have. Jesus clarifies that the word (seed) brings someone into the kingdom and grows the kingdom as the seed is spread. Then, adding to this picture, Jesus gives two more parables involving seed growth. In the first, He shows us that the seed of God's kingdom grows through God's power and word. In this parable, the farmer sows the seed and waits in faith for the harvest. The third parable illustrates that the kingdom of God grows from the seemingly smallest of seeds. Though its beginning and spread may seem insignificant in our sight, God's work in the mundane and insignificant moments grows His kingdom for His glory. God's kingdom and purpose are unstoppable in our hearts and His creation. Sunday, we will examine how the smallest of seeds can change everything. I. The Kingdom Is Given Through Word: Heed What You Hear (v. 21-25) II. The Kingdom Grows By God's Word & Power (v. 26-29) III. The Kingdom Grows From The Smallest Seed (v. 30-34)
KingsWord International Church is called of God to raise a people of the Word and the Spirit, equipped with a revelation of their Supernatural Identity. Connect with us on YouTube: @kingswordikeja Instagram: @kingswordikeja Facebook: @kingswordIkeja TikTok: @kingswordIkeja Audio Streaming Mixlr: kingswordikeja.mixlr.com Giving Details: KingsWord Ministries International (KMI) GTBank Naira - 0009617383 USD - 0009617510 GBP - 0009617503 Euros - 0009617527 First Timers Form & Number bit.ly/eserviceguest 0810-000-0650
KingsWord International Church is called of God to raise a people of the Word and the Spirit, equipped with a revelation of their Supernatural Identity. Connect with us on YouTube: @kingswordikeja Instagram: @kingswordikeja Facebook: @kingswordIkeja TikTok: @kingswordIkeja Audio Streaming Mixlr: kingswordikeja.mixlr.com Giving Details: KingsWord Ministries International (KMI) GTBank Naira - 0009617383 USD - 0009617510 GBP - 0009617503 Euros - 0009617527 First Timers Form & Number bit.ly/eserviceguest 0810-000-0650
KingsWord International Church is called of God to raise a people of the Word and the Spirit, equipped with a revelation of their Supernatural Identity. Connect with us on YouTube: @kingswordikeja Instagram: @kingswordikeja Facebook: @kingswordIkeja TikTok: @kingswordIkeja Audio Streaming Mixlr: kingswordikeja.mixlr.com Giving Details: KingsWord Ministries International (KMI) GTBank Naira - 0009617383 USD - 0009617510 GBP - 0009617503 Euros - 0009617527 First Timers Form & Number bit.ly/eserviceguest 0810-000-0650
Throughout the early chapters of Mark, Jesus' emphasis on the kingdom and His authority has been central. The kingdom of God is His rule and reign, which is a present reality and a future fulfillment. As Christ came preaching and working miracles, we saw the fullness of God's kingdom breaking into the present reality of this fallen creation. Jesus demonstrated His authority to bring God's kingdom and called people to enter through repentance and faith (Mark 1:14-15). Yet, we have seen wildly different responses to Jesus in Mark's presentation. It does not look like Jesus' message and the kingdom of God is gaining traction among the people. Last week in Mark 4:1-20, Jesus explained these responses with the parable of the soils. He presented three soils that bore no fruit and one that bore fruit abundantly. After explaining its meaning, Jesus calls His disciples to "pay attention to what you hear," giving several reasons why this is so important. We must give heed to the word because everything hidden will come to light (v. 21-22), and the way one responds to the word (seed) will shape one's future (v. 23-25). Those who have will be given more, and those who do not will lose what they have. Jesus clarifies that the word (seed) brings someone into the kingdom and grows the kingdom as the seed is spread. Then, adding to this picture, Jesus gives two more parables involving seed growth. In the first, He shows us that the seed of God's kingdom grows through God's power and word. In this parable, the farmer sows the seed and waits in faith for the harvest. The third parable illustrates that the kingdom of God grows from the seemingly smallest of seeds. Though its beginning and spread may seem insignificant in our sight, God's work in the mundane and insignificant moments grows His kingdom for His glory. God's kingdom and purpose are unstoppable in our hearts and His creation. Sunday, we will examine how the smallest of seeds can change everything. I. The Kingdom Is Given Through Word: Heed What You Hear (v. 21-25) II. The Kingdom Grows By God's Word & Power (v. 26-29) III. The Kingdom Grows From The Smallest Seed (v. 30-34)
Join Danny for a whirlwind tour through language, imagination, science, and history in this collection of six short episodes from English Plus! Explore the diligent power of "leaving no stone unturned," ponder the ripples of changing past habits, unleash your inner child imagining a world run by kids, find hope in the delicate word "glimmer," marvel at the brain's communication network via synapses, and delve into the enduring mystery of the lost Knights Templar treasure. Each short sparks curiosity, invites reflection, and encourages you to share your own thoughts. Perfect for a quick dose of engaging ideas! To unlock full access to all our episodes, consider becoming a premium subscriber on Apple Podcasts or Patreon. And don't forget to visit englishpluspodcast.com for even more content, including articles, in-depth studies, and our brand-new audio series now available in our English Plus Podcast's shop!
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Wynell Freeman returns with Season 3 of It's Morning All Day Long! Join us as she shares powerful insights from the Word of God, reminding us of its life-changing power and truth.
In this episode of the English Plus Podcast, we explore the fascinating world of ocean currents—Earth's hidden conveyor belt. From moving heat across the globe to nourishing marine life and even regulating carbon dioxide levels, these underwater highways are essential to life as we know it. We'll dive into the science behind surface and deep currents, including the thermohaline circulation, and uncover how climate change is disrupting this delicate balance. What happens when the conveyor belt slows down? Spoiler: it's not good for weather, sea life, or even your dinner plate. You'll also expand your vocabulary with words like conveyor belt, stagnant, regulate, and ecological chaos, while reflecting on big questions: How do ocean currents shape the climate near you? What can we do to reduce our impact on this delicate system? And if you could explore the ocean's depths, what mysteries would you want to uncover? Tune in for a blend of science, language learning, and a deeper appreciation of the oceans that keep our planet thriving! To unlock the full episode and gain access to our extensive back catalogue, consider becoming a premium subscriber on Apple Podcasts or Patreon. And don't forget to visit englishpluspodcast.com for even more content, including articles, in-depth studies, and our brand-new audio series now available in our English Plus Podcast's shop!
In this episode of the English Plus Podcast, we tackle the misunderstood world of bacteria. Are bacteria always harmful, or do they play a bigger role in our lives than we realize? Spoiler: not all bacteria are out to get us! We'll explore the good, the bad, and the ugly sides of bacteria—from the probiotics in your gut keeping you healthy to the environmental heroes cleaning up oil spills. At the same time, we'll dive into the challenges of antibiotic resistance and why it's important to keep harmful bacteria in check without wiping out the good guys. You'll also learn useful vocabulary like PR problem, probiotics, decompose, and unsung heroes. Plus, we'll discuss intriguing questions: Have we become too obsessed with killing bacteria? Can something harmful sometimes turn out to be helpful? And how do we find the right balance between fighting germs and preserving the beneficial bacteria we need? Tune in for a blend of science, language learning, and a fresh perspective on the microscopic world around us! To unlock the full episode and gain access to our extensive back catalogue, consider becoming a premium subscriber on Apple Podcasts or Patreon. And don't forget to visit englishpluspodcast.com for even more content, including articles, in-depth studies, and our brand-new audio series now available in our English Plus Podcast's shop!
In this inspiring episode of the English Plus Podcast, we tackle Chris Grosser's powerful statement: “Opportunities don't happen, you create them.” What does it really mean to take charge of your life and build the doors you want to open? We'll explore how opportunities aren't just handed to us—they're cultivated, like gardens that need care, effort, and resilience. From facing fears of failure to flipping the script on traditional approaches, this episode dives into the mindset, tools, and strategies needed to create your own success. Along the way, you'll expand your vocabulary with words and phrases like wake-up call, networking, flipping the script, and roadblocks. You'll also discover how to identify your blind spots and learn to be intentional in your actions. Plus, we'll discuss intriguing questions: Do opportunities really have to be created? Have you ever turned a challenge into a success? And what's one small step you can take today to build your own opportunities? Tune in for practical insights, engaging language learning, and a little motivation to kickstart your next big move! To unlock the full episode and gain access to our extensive back catalogue, consider becoming a premium subscriber on Apple Podcasts or Patreon. And don't forget to visit englishpluspodcast.com for even more content, including articles, in-depth studies, and our brand-new audio series now available in our English Plus Podcast's shop!
In this episode of the English Plus Podcast, we take a closer look at the infamous phrase, “The customer is always right.” What started as a well-meaning principle has turned into a mantra that's often debated in today's world of Karen memes and online reviews. Is the customer truly infallible, or has this sentiment outlived its usefulness? We'll explore the origins of this saying, its impact on modern businesses, and whether it's time to update the approach to customer service. From handling unreasonable demands to ensuring employees feel valued, this episode dives into the balancing act of keeping both customers and employees happy. Along the way, you'll learn vocabulary in context with words like infamous, sentiment, doormat, and empathy. We'll also discuss questions like: Does this phrase still hold up today? How can businesses support their teams while prioritizing customers? And have you ever been steamrolled by a difficult customer—or a business? Tune in for a blend of humor, insight, and language learning. Let's rethink what customer service really means in the modern age! To unlock the full episode and gain access to our extensive back catalogue, consider becoming a premium subscriber on Apple Podcasts or Patreon. And don't forget to visit englishpluspodcast.com for even more content, including articles, in-depth studies, and our brand-new audio series now available in our English Plus Podcast's shop!
Join us in this thrilling episode of the English Plus Podcast as we dive into the unsolved mystery of D.B. Cooper—one of history's most audacious hijackers. From his calm demeanor and brazen heist aboard Flight 305 to his legendary disappearance into the Pacific Northwest night, Cooper's story continues to captivate the world. But why is his tale so fascinating? We'll explore the theories surrounding his identity, the cultural allure of his rebellion, and the lasting impact he's had on aviation security. Was he a master criminal, a desperate dreamer, or just someone with a flair for the dramatic? And what makes him a folk hero to some? Along the way, we'll expand your vocabulary with words like boggle, ransom, alias, and brazenness—all in context to make them easy to remember. Plus, we'll tackle intriguing questions like: Could a modern-day D.B. Cooper pull this off? What makes certain people folk heroes? And what unsolved mystery keeps you up at night? Don't miss this blend of history, language, and a touch of suspense. Tune in now, and let's unravel the mystery together! To unlock the full episode and gain access to our extensive back catalogue, consider becoming a premium subscriber on Apple Podcasts or Patreon. And don't forget to visit englishpluspodcast.com for even more content, including articles, in-depth studies, and our brand-new audio series now available in our English Plus Podcast's shop!
Cryptocurrency is more than just futuristic tech or a buzzword—it's reshaping the global economy in ways we're still trying to understand. In this episode of English Plus Podcast, we dive into the world of digital currencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum to explore their impact on finance, access, regulation, and even the environment. We'll break down key concepts like blockchain, decentralization, volatility, and smart contracts, making them easy to understand for everyone. Plus, we'll discuss the pros and cons of cryptocurrency: Does it democratize finance or just create new inequalities? Should governments regulate crypto, or does that defeat its purpose? And how can the industry grow without harming the planet? Join us as we explore these questions, learn new vocabulary in context, and rethink what money means in a rapidly changing world. Don't miss this thought-provoking episode! To unlock the full episode and gain access to our extensive back catalogue, consider becoming a premium subscriber on Apple Podcasts or Patreon. And don't forget to visit englishpluspodcast.com for even more content, including articles, in-depth studies, and our brand-new audio series now available in our English Plus Podcast's shop!
Join us as we soar into the remarkable life of Amelia Earhart, an aviation pioneer who redefined bravery, shattered barriers, and left behind one of history's most enduring mysteries. From her groundbreaking transatlantic solo flight to the enigmatic disappearance that has captivated generations, Amelia's story is one of courage, resilience, and inspiration. In this episode, we'll explore what made Amelia a true trailblazer, uncover lessons from her life that we can apply to our own, and dive into the vocabulary that brings her legacy to life. Whether you're a dreamer, a risk-taker, or someone navigating your own challenges, Amelia's story has something to offer. Stay tuned for engaging discussions, thought-provoking questions, and practical takeaways from the extraordinary life of one of history's most daring women.
In this episode of the English Plus Podcast, we take a closer look at our incredible home—Earth, the Blue Planet. Why is Earth so special? From its life-giving water and protective atmosphere to its perfect Goldilocks zone placement, we'll explore what makes our planet unique and why it deserves our care and respect. We'll discuss the challenges Earth faces, including climate change, pollution, and deforestation, and share simple, practical steps we can take to make a difference. Plus, we'll dive into key vocabulary like “Blue Planet,” “climate change,” and “ripple effect,” helping you expand your English skills in context. Join us for a thoughtful conversation about the marvel of Earth and our role in protecting it. Don't forget to stick around for discussion questions at the end, where we'll challenge you to think about your environmental footprint and what Earth might say if it could talk.
Have you ever wondered why some things stick in your mind effortlessly while others seem impossible to remember? In this engaging episode, we explore the fascinating psychology of learning and cognitive development, uncovering what makes our brains tick when it comes to acquiring knowledge. From the power of storytelling to the magic of curiosity, we'll discuss how emotions, active learning, and even routines shape the way we process and retain information. We'll also dive into the science of neuroplasticity, proving it's never too late to learn something new. Plus, we break down essential vocabulary like cognitive development, active learning, storytelling, and curiosity-driven learning to help you better understand and communicate these concepts. Join us for practical tips, thought-provoking insights, and a fun journey into how we learn—and how we can learn better.
In this episode of [Podcast Name], we dive into the fascinating world of intellectual property (IP)—your secret weapon for keeping your brilliant ideas safe. Whether you're an inventor, a creative, or a business owner, understanding IP is essential to protect your hard work and stand out in the marketplace. Join us as we break down the four key types of IP—patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets—and explore real-world examples of how they can make or break your entrepreneurial journey. Discover the importance of balancing protection with practicality, navigating the global stage of IP laws, and avoiding common pitfalls. Plus, we'll unpack key terms like “infringement,” “branding,” and “trade secrets” in an easy-to-understand way, giving you the tools to apply them in your own ventures. Ready to turn your ideas into unstoppable assets? Tune in now and learn how to safeguard your creativity, make your mark, and embrace the power of intellectual property! Keywords: intellectual property, patents, trademarks, copyrights, trade secrets, branding, entrepreneurs, business protection, creativity, global IP laws To unlock the full episode and gain access to our extensive back catalogue, consider becoming a premium subscriber on Apple Podcasts or Patreon. And don't forget to visit englishpluspodcast.com for even more content, including articles, in-depth studies, and our brand-new audio series now available in our English Plus Podcast's shop!
In this enriching episode of Word Power on the English Plus Podcast, we journey through five thought-provoking topics designed to challenge your perspective, expand your vocabulary, and inspire self-reflection. First, we explore the hidden sacrifices behind success, uncovering the untold stories of effort, resilience, and balance that lie beneath the surface of public achievements. What does it truly take to achieve greatness, and how do we define success for ourselves? Next, we turn to the powerful and devastating force of tsunamis, examining their origins, warning signs, and the lessons they teach us about resilience and preparation. From awe-inspiring natural phenomena to life-saving strategies, this segment is both humbling and practical. Then, we delve into the philosophy of "letting the chips fall where they may," discussing the balance between taking thoughtful action and accepting outcomes beyond our control. How do we embrace uncertainty while staying accountable? Our fourth segment revisits the myth of Cupid and Psyche, a timeless story of trust, betrayal, and redemption. We unpack the emotional and symbolic lessons from this classic tale, exploring how they resonate in our relationships today. Finally, we nurture our emotional core with a discussion on reconnecting with your inner child—a playful yet profound journey into self-care, creativity, and healing. What does your inner child need, and how can honoring it transform your adult life? Throughout the episode, we highlight key vocabulary in context, including terms like "relentless," "resilience," "redemption," "burnout," and "sunk cost," making them relevant and relatable for everyday use. Plus, we include engaging discussion questions and writing prompts to encourage deeper reflection and practical application. Whether you're here to boost your English skills, expand your understanding of the world, or simply enjoy a meaningful conversation, this episode has something for everyone. Tune in and let's unlock the power of words together! To unlock the full episode and gain access to our extensive back catalogue, consider becoming a premium subscriber on Apple Podcasts or Patreon. And don't forget to visit englishpluspodcast.com for even more content, including articles, in-depth studies, and our brand-new audio series now available in our English Plus Podcast's shop!
In this episode of English Plus Podcast, Danny tackles the art of critical thinking versus plain old criticism, the mysterious depths of “still waters run deep,” and why we sometimes feel pain just from seeing someone else get hurt. Join Danny as he explores when criticism becomes constructive, what makes quiet people fascinating, and how our brains respond to other people's suffering. You'll also get a vocabulary boost, with practical terms like empathy, wince, and inner world, all woven into a funny, thought-provoking discussion. Perfect for anyone looking to balance insight with kindness in a world full of snap judgments! To unlock the full episode and gain access to our extensive back catalogue, consider becoming a premium subscriber on Apple Podcasts or Patreon. And don't forget to visit englishpluspodcast.com for even more content, including articles, in-depth studies, and our brand-new audio series now available in our English Plus Podcast's shop!
In this Word Power episode on the English Plus Podcast, we dive into thought-provoking questions, explore cutting-edge tech, analyze social trends, and revisit historical milestones—all through a lens that expands your vocabulary and understanding. From pondering our roles as creators in a world filled with AI tools to exploring how smart devices are redefining everyday life, this episode covers diverse topics to spark your curiosity and boost your language skills. We journey through synchronized dancing and its surprising impact on human connection, the ripple effects of urbanization on rural communities, and end with a space-age story of courage, featuring Yuri Gagarin, the first human to orbit Earth. Tune in for fascinating insights, big ideas, and words that add power to your conversations! To unlock the full episode and gain access to our extensive back catalogue, consider becoming a premium subscriber on Apple Podcasts or Patreon. And don't forget to visit englishpluspodcast.com for even more content, including articles, in-depth studies, and our brand-new audio series now available in our English Plus Podcast's shop!
Believers Voice of Victory Audio Broadcast for 9/20/2024. In the beginning was the Word, the Word was with God, and the Word was God! Watch Believer's Voice of Victory as Pastors George and Terri Pearsons reveal that you have Word power. From the Southwest Believers' Convention, Bill Winston explains how your faith in the power of the Word will fix and undo anything the devil has done!
Believers Voice of Victory Video Broadcast for 9/20/2024. In the beginning was the Word, the Word was with God, and the Word was God! Watch Believer's Voice of Victory as Pastors George and Terri Pearsons reveal that you have Word power. From the Southwest Believers' Convention, Bill Winston explains how your faith in the power of the Word will fix and undo anything the devil has done!
Doors, portals, and gateways are not merely physical structures; they hold a profound significance in our lives. These seemingly simple objects serve as both literal and metaphorical barriers and access points, inviting us to explore the realms that lie beyond. Portals, in particular, represent transformative thresholds between different states or realms, beckoning us to step into the unknown and embrace the potential for change. Gateways, too, act as entrances to new experiences, opportunities, and phases of life, marking the beginning of exciting journeys and personal growth. They represent transitions, change, and growth, reflecting the very essence of the human experience. Doors, portals, and gateways symbolize the mysterious, the potential for transformation, and the challenges we face as we navigate through life. These powerful archetypes have long been present in literature, art, and mythology, captivating our imaginations and resonating with our deepest desires and fears. The door, portal, and gateway metaphor is truly universal, transcending cultural boundaries and belief systems. Its presence can be found in diverse traditions and practices, speaking to the fundamental human experiences and aspirations that bind us all. These symbols evoke a sense of wonder, curiosity, and anticipation, inviting us to step beyond our comfort zones and explore the vast possibilities that await us. In this episode, we will embark on a journey to uncover the profound significance of doors, portals, and gateways from various perspectives. We will examine their role in personal growth, spirituality, and self-discovery, and how they shape our understanding of the world and ourselves. Through a combination of mythology, psychology, and personal anecdotes, we will explore how embracing these metaphors can lead to transformative experiences and a deeper appreciation for the mysteries of life.
Words. They are the building blocks of our thoughts, the essence of our communication, and the creators of our reality. From the moment we utter our first word to the last syllable we speak, words hold an immense power over our lives. They can inspire us to reach for the stars, or they can shatter our dreams in an instant. They can mend broken hearts, or they can fuel the flames of conflict. Words have the ability to shape our perceptions, influence our decisions, and ultimately, determine the course of our lives. ##ManifestationSecret #powerofwords #LawoOfAttraction