Podcasts about yet jesus

Peter and Paul stand as shocking examples of grace—one denied Christ, the other persecuted Him. Yet Jesus comes to both not with condemnation, but with a call: “Follow me.” Peter is restored with a meal and a mission: “Feed my sheep.” Saul, struck blind, is given new sight and sent to proclaim the very name he tried to destroy. Their stories remind us: God doesn't call the worthy—He calls the willing. And following Jesus means not escaping suffering, but sharing in it for the sake of the gospel.

We live in a world that is short on peace. Yet Jesus offers abundant peace. When we have it and live in it, there are many blessings to be had. From Matthew 5.

Send us a textWhat does it mean when Jesus prioritizes spiritual healing over physical restoration? Delve into the profound story of the paralytic man whose friends broke through a roof to bring him before Jesus. While everyone expected physical healing, Christ first declared, "Son, thy sins are forgiven thee."The religious leaders immediately recognized the weight of this statement—only God can forgive sins. Yet Jesus deliberately connected His authority to forgive with His power to heal, asking which was easier. To prove His spiritual authority (which remains invisible), He demonstrated His physical healing power (which everyone could see): "But that you may know that the Son of man has power on earth to forgive sins, arise, take up your bed, and walk."This powerful account challenges our modern tendency to compartmentalize needs. While we often seek physical solutions, Christ addresses our complete person—body and soul. The story reveals that spiritual restoration takes precedence in the divine economy, even when we don't recognize it as our primary need. Jesus responds not just to the paralytic but to "their faith"—highlighting how the desperate belief of companions can help bring others into transformative encounters with Christ.The discussion explores how this passage distinguishes true divine healing from contemporary approaches that suggest healing is proportional to one's faith. Instead, Christ's healings authenticated His message and identity rather than serving as a barometer of individual faith. Through this story, we learn that divine forgiveness addresses our deepest need before solving our perceived problems.Have you recognized your need for spiritual healing? Are you seeking Jesus with the same determination as these four friends? Listen as we unpack this profound story of faith, forgiveness, and the extraordinary lengths we should go to encounter Christ.The Balance of GrayGod, doubt, and proof walk into a podcast... it goes better than you'd expect!Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the show

April 29, 2025Today's Reading: Revelation 1:4-18Daily Lectionary: Exodus 23:14-33; Luke 4:31-44“When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. But he laid his right hand on me, saying, ‘Fear not, I am the first and the last, and the living one. I died, and behold I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of Death and Hades.'” (Revelation 1:17-18)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen. How often do we see the words “fear not” in Scripture? I read somewhere that there are 365 “fear nots” —one for each day of the year—but I'm not sure that's true. There are many encounters people have with God and His angels where they have to be admonished to not be afraid. We see this at Christmas when the angels tell the shepherds not to be afraid, we see it when God speaks to Abraham, we hear it from the prophets, and we hear it from Jesus during His earthly ministry. Why would John be afraid here? He is seeing his beloved friend and teacher, and yet he “falls at his feet as though dead.” John is seeing Jesus in His glory, who knows all and sees all, whose face is shining like a sun, and out of his mouth is a sharp, two-edged sword. The visual description is stunning, and that alone is enough to conjure fear, yet even more than that, John knows that the Lord knows all our sins and failings. That alone can be a terrifying prospect. At times, in our sinful nature, we think we can hide our sins from God; sometimes, we even try to hide them from our own consciences through excuses and self-justification, telling ourselves we didn't really sin because we found a loophole. But John here cannot hide. He knows he is bare before not only his teacher and friend but the Lord of all, who, if he were to hold John's sins against him, could strike him down for them. Yet Jesus answers here by reaching out and touching John and telling him not to be afraid, not because they're friends and Jesus is nice, but because He is the first and the last, who has conquered sin and its wages—death and Hell. Jesus tells John that He holds the keys of death and Hades; this means that they are restrained on His behalf and that in order to get into either of them, you have to go through Jesus. Just as Jesus told John not to fear, as He is alive, He also tells you to take comfort in these truths. You need not fear death and Hell because they have been vanquished, locked up, and are restrained by our Lord, who is alive forevermore. In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.At the name of Jesus Ev'ry knee shall bow, Ev'ry tongue confess Him King of glory now. ‘Tis the Father's pleasure We should call Him Lord, Who from the beginning Was the mighty Word. (LSB 512:1)- Deac. Eleanor Corrow, Higher Things Board Member and coordinator in LCMS Missionary ServicesAudio Reflections Speaker: Pastor Jonathan Lackey is the pastor at Grace Lutheran Church, Vine Grove, KY.Andrew R. Jones identifies ten lies Satan uses in attempts to dismantle God's people and His kingdom. Find encouragement in God's Word of Truth and remember the final victory we have in our Savior, Jesus Christ.

John 20:19-31When it was evening on that day, the first day of the week, and the doors of the house where the disciples had met were locked for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you.” After he said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples rejoiced when they saw the Lord. Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you.” When he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained.” But Thomas (who was called the Twin), one of the twelve, was not with them when Jesus came. So the other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord.” But he said to them, “Unless I see the mark of the nails in his hands, and put my finger in the mark of the nails and my hand in his side, I will not believe.”A week later his disciples were again in the house, and Thomas was with them. Although the doors were shut, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you.” Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here and see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it in my side. Do not doubt but believe.” Thomas answered him, “My Lord and my God!” Jesus said to him, “Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have come to believe.” Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book. But these are written so that you may come to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that through believing you may have life in his name. All across the country—and the world, for that matter—congregations are hearing sermons on Pope Francis, as they should. In fact, I am certain Lutherans will have not preached this much about a pope since the days of the Reformation! I am also certain today's sermons speak much kinder of the Pope than Luther, who called the pope of his day a sewer of wickedness and the antichrist. Today, there will be none of that. Pastors of all denominations are lifting up Pope Francis' advocacy on migration, environmentalism, and reform in the Catholic Church. Many will praise him for his efforts to empower women and his more open posture toward the LGBTQ faithful. Others will highlight the simple lifestyle Francis chose, long before he became pope. In Argentina, when he was known by his birth name, Jorge Mario Bergoglio, he eschewed the opulence of the bishop's palace, choosing instead to live in a modest apartment. He cooked his own meals, regularly visited the slums of Buenos Aires, and took public transportation. People regularly saw the archbishop on the bus. It wasn't just about frugality—it was about solidarity. He wanted to live close to the people he served. He was a shepherd who smelled like his sheep.This commitment continued when he became pope. In 2013, Francis declined the luxurious papal apartments in the Apostolic Palace, choosing instead a two-room suite in a guesthouse for clergy visiting the Vatican. Breaking a century-old tradition, Francis said, “I am not used to opulence. is good for me and prevents me from being isolated.”Even yesterday, at his funeral, Francis was placed in a simple wooden box, not the traditional triple casket. His final resting place at St. Mary Major has no grand tomb, no ornate inscription—just a plain headstone with the name "Francis." A quiet, fitting end to a life marked by humility, service, and downward mobility.How fitting it is, then, that Francis' death coincides with the story of Thomas, because both Francis and Thomas were deeply familiar with the wounds of Jesus. Usually when we hear this story from John, we focus on Thomas' doubt. We jump to his defense—saying we all want proof, all want what others have received. But today, what stands out to me is Thomas' courage and Jesus' graciousness. How gracious it is for Jesus to offer his wounds to Thomas, to provide exactly what his faith needs. It's as if Jesus says, “If it's my wounds Thomas needs to believe, then it's my wounds I will give.”It is a remarkable grace—to show someone your wounds, to put on display the very thing that inflicted pain, to reveal the reminders of rejection. Yet Jesus doesn't stop there. He invites Thomas to touch them. That is grace upon grace.And it works.Thomas doesn't simply see the wounds and say yes, Jesus has risen. Thomas goes further in both deed and word than all the other disciples. I imagine his fingers trembling as he touched the still-scabbing nail marks. His hand must have shook as he reached into the spear-sized hole in Jesus' side. And then, only after entering the wounds, Thomas says the deepest confession of faith yet uttered in the Gospel.: "My Lord and my God!"Not just master, not just teacher— my God.Jesus is revealed not through strength but through weakness. Not in greatness but in meekness. It's not a miracle of abundance, not a sign of divine power, but wounds that lead to worship. Seeing the wounds, the disciples recognize Jesus. Touching the wounds, Thomas' faith is born anew.Francis understood this. He knew that if he wanted to encounter the risen Christ, he needed to find and touch Christ's wounds just as Thomas did. In one homily, Francis said:"How can I find the wounds of Jesus today? I cannot see them as Thomas saw them. But I can find them in doing works of mercy and in giving to the bodies of our injured siblings in Christ, for they are hungry, thirsty, naked, humiliated, in prison, in hospitals. These are the wounds of Jesus in our day."This wasn't something Pope Francis merely preached about. He embodied this, too.Early in his papacy, he traveled to Lampedusa to mourn migrants lost at sea and decry the "globalization of indifference." In war-torn Bangui, he entered a besieged Muslim neighborhood to preach peace, declaring Christians and Muslims brothers and sisters. In Bangladesh, he met with Rohingya refugees, embraced their suffering, and called them "the presence of God today."But perhaps the most moving example is this: That is Pope Francis doing a video call through WhatsApp with the only catholic church in the Gaza strip. What's remarkable is that Francis has called that community every night at 7pm since the third day of the war. Anton, the spokesperson of the congregation, said “the pope would always ask how we were, what did we eat, did we have clean water, was anyone injured?" Was anyone injured? Even from a video call, Francis did his best to enter their wounds, to see suffering, to understand the pain they were enduring, that they continue to endure. And he did this every night, no matter how busy he was or where he was, telling them he was praying for them. I imagine the community on the other end of the call did in fact show the pope their wounds, like when bombs fell on the attached school, killing six Christians sheltering there. Or in these last eight weeks while no humanitarian aid has been allowed in and people have died from starvation and disease.Anton says the pope's final call came on Saturday, two days before he died. Francis told them he was praying for them and said he needed their prayers. "He told us not to worry as he would always be there for us," Anton said. "He was with us until his last breath."It is not our inclination to look at wounds, let alone touch them. We tend to look away from pain, suffering, and death. Yet the story of Jesus and Thomas, and the example of Francis, invite us to do just the opposite.And I get it—looking away is easy, even necessary sometimes. All the hurt and injustice can feel overwhelming, paralyzing even. But to have the option to look away is a privilege many do not have. The invitation Jesus gave Thomas is the same invitation given to us: reach out your hand. Touch the wounds.I know we aren't the pope. We can't just call someone in Gaza or travel to the war-torn places of the world. But are there not wounds here, among us? Like in our neighbors grieving losses we don't always see. In young people fighting battles with anxiety and loneliness. In the elderly who sit in nursing homes, too often forgotten. In the struggling families trying to make rent here in Central Indiana. The wounds of Jesus are in the growing homeless population in downtown Indianapolis. They are in the food pantries and shelters that are stretched thin, even in our own backyard. They are in the racial and economic divides that persist right here in central Indiana.Friends, the invitation Jesus gave to Thomas — "Reach out your hand and touch" — is the same invitation he gives to us. To draw near. To notice. To listen. To show up.So where, in your daily life, is Jesus inviting you to touch a wound? - In the coworker going through a divorce? - In the friend who's been quiet for too long? - In the neighbor who just lost a job?And for the wounds across the world: stay informed. Pray. Vote. Protest. Give generously. Stand against oppression that causes such suffering. Only when we are familiar with the wounds and what causes them can we do something about them.And Though your fingers may tremble and your hands may shake as you do it, you are reaching out to Jesus himself. And there—in the trembling, in the reaching—we find him.The risen and living Christ, our Lord and our God. Amen.

Even after the Resurrection, the disciples huddled behind closed doors—afraid, uncertain, doubting. Yet Jesus stepped into that locked room, offering peace, breathing the Spirit, and turning fear into faith.If you're wrestling with questions or carrying burdens, this Sunday is for you. Come and discover how the risen Christ still passes through every barrier to bring hope and new life.

APPLICATION FOR TODAY 1. Walk with Jesus in Your Confusion and Disappointment What It Meant Then: These two disciples are leaving Jerusalem—the place of promise and resurrection! In Jewish thought, walking away from Jerusalem is like walking away from God's presence and redemptive purposes (cf. Psalm 122:3–4). Yet Jesus pursues them even in their disillusionment. What It Means Now: Many people walk away from faith, community, or calling after spiritual disappointment or trauma. But like with the Emmaus disciples, Jesus walks with us in our confusion, even when we don't recognize Him. Jesus never waits for us to “have it all together” before He draws near. 2. Listen to the Scriptures with an Open Heart and a Messianic Lens What It Meant Then: Jesus doesn't just perform miracles—He roots understanding in Scripture. He re-reads the Hebrew Bible with Himself at the center: Messiah as Suffering Servant (Isaiah 53), the rejected cornerstone (Psalm 118), the pierced one (Zechariah 12:10). First-century Jews saw the Messiah as a conquering king; Jesus reinterprets Scripture to show He must first suffer before glory (cf. Luke 24:26). What It Means Now: Many today treat the Bible as a moral guide or historical text rather than the living, Christ-centered Word. The key to understanding Scripture is not academic skill but a heart open to Jesus as its center (cf. John 5:39–40). Our own stories can only be rightly understood in light of His story. 3. Welcome Jesus to the Table—He Reveals Himself in Community and Covenant What It Meant Then: Meals in Jewish culture were deeply symbolic—not just about food, but covenant, belonging, and identity. Jesus' four-fold action (take, bless, break, give) mirrors the Last Supper (Luke 22:19) and echoes covenant meals like Abraham's in Genesis 18. Their eyes are opened in the breaking of bread, a shared moment of intimacy and recognition. What It Means Now: Jesus often reveals Himself in the ordinary made sacred—like a shared meal, communion, or small group conversation. Worship isn't limited to a temple or stage—it happens around kitchen tables, coffee cups, and communion elements. Many miss Jesus because they look only for mountaintop moments, not everyday intimacy. 4. Let Your Encounter with Jesus Fuel Your Mission What It Meant Then: The journey to Emmaus was 7 miles. After encountering Jesus, they ran back the same night—risky and urgent. Their encounter with the risen Christ turned grief into mission. In Jewish culture, testimony matters. Sharing what you've seen is a way of honoring truth (cf. Deut. 19:15). What It Means Now: When people encounter the risen Jesus, they can't help telling others. Evangelism is not a script—it's a natural overflow of love and transformation. Spiritual fire (v.32 – “Were not our hearts burning...?”) results in kingdom urgency. 

Proverbs 14:12, "There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death." One of Satan's most subtle and damning deceptions is "moralism"—the idea that man, by his own supposed goodness, can commend himself to God. Moralism substitutes external reform, for internal regeneration. It preaches behavior change, apart from the new birth. It is content with polished external conduct, while the heart remains unwashed. And it is leading multitudes to Hell!Moralism often dresses itself in religious acts. It promotes virtue, and applauds kindness. It speaks of honesty, and decency. But its fatal flaw is this: It offers these things apart from Christ. It seeks to be right with God, without the righteousness of God. It promotes "virtue" without the power of the Holy Spirit. It promotes morality—but despises the Savior.The Pharisees of old were moral men. They fasted, prayed, and gave alms. Yet Jesus said to them, "Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs...outwardly you appear righteous to men, but inwardly you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness!" (Matthew 23:27-28).Moralism is deadly because it convinces the sinner that he needs no Savior. It flatters human pride. It whispers, "You are not that bad! God will surely accept you—look at all your good deeds." It blinds the heart to man's true condition: "dead in trespasses and sins," utterly depraved, and without hope apart from the saving grace of God. No amount of morality can change the leper's spots, or cleanse the defiled soul.What then is the remedy? It is not to be better, but to be born again. It is not to do more, but to despair of do

Send us a textTitle: The Carpenter King – Rediscovering the Humanity of JesusWhen was the last time you stopped and truly contemplated this astonishing truth: the Creator of the universe worked with His hands as a carpenter for thirty years before beginning His public ministry?In this deeply reflective episode, we pull back the layers of religious tradition and sanitized imagery to rediscover the authentic humanity of Jesus Christ. Long before miracles, sermons, and the cross, Jesus was a worker—a tradesman shaped by sweat, routine, and the dust of daily life.Simon and Ben challenge modern church culture's tendency to elevate charisma over character, often placing untested individuals into leadership roles far too early. Yet Jesus—fully God—chose to live in obscurity and preparation, learning carpentry under Joseph, experiencing family life, and walking through everyday challenges just like us. “He wasn't manufactured within the church,” one host declares. “He was a worker. A man of the people.”This episode paints a vivid picture of the formative years of Christ—growing up in a home with brothers, a stepfather, and townspeople who questioned His legitimacy. We reflect on Joseph's perspective, raising the Son of God while living in quiet faith, and what it must have felt like to see Jesus perform miracles and ultimately carry a cross.Drawing from Isaiah 53, the hosts explore how Jesus was not physically impressive—“no beauty or majesty to attract us to him.” This is a powerful reminder that the Savior of the world wasn't glamorous—He was real, relatable, and rooted in a fully human experience. “He'd be wearing rough old boots,” they suggest—not robes of gold or the polished look of Hollywood portrayals.This conversation invites listeners to reimagine Jesus not just as divine, but deeply human—a man who knows your labor, your weariness, your obscure seasons, and your long waits. It's in this dual reality—God in flesh—that we find the Savior who truly understands what it's like to be us.If you've ever felt unseen, unready, or misunderstood in your calling, this episode reminds you that even Jesus spent years in quiet preparation. You are not forgotten—you are being formed.Jesus the carpenter reflection, humanity of Christ podcast, Isaiah 53 Jesus appearance, working-class Jesus explained, preparation before ministry podcast, biblical view of Jesus' childhood, Jesus and Joseph relationship, Christ's obscurity before miracles, labor and calling in Scripture, Jesus wore work boots not robes, spiritual formation through work, rediscovering Jesus' humanitySupport the showhttps://www.pastorbencooper.co.uk/https://www.rbchristianradio.net/

Send us a textTitle: No More Excuses – Standing for Christ in a Culture of CompromiseWhat keeps us from boldly standing for Jesus? In this urgent and timely episode, we explore how fear, comfort, and the desire for control often become subtle—but powerful—excuses that lead us to compromise or deny our faith. From Peter's denial at the fire bin to modern believers navigating hostile cultural environments, the struggle remains the same.We revisit Peter's moment of weakness—choosing self-preservation when confronted by a servant girl—and draw direct parallels to how many Christians today remain silent about their beliefs in workplaces, classrooms, and even in churches that have strayed from biblical truth. The stakes are real: social ridicule, job risk, and accusations of intolerance. Yet Jesus' warning rings clear: “If anyone is ashamed of Me and My words, the Son of Man will be ashamed of them...” (Luke 9:26).This episode doesn't sugarcoat the cultural battlelines, especially in educational institutions, where biblical values are increasingly replaced by ideologies that distort truth—particularly around gender, sexuality, and identity. Families, students, and educators face a critical question: Will we remain grounded in the truth of Christ, or drift with the currents of cultural approval?As one host soberly notes, “When we took God out of schools, we replaced it with guns.” It's a stark reminder that when we remove God's truth, something else always fills the void—and it's rarely life-giving.But the answer today is the same as it was in Peter's story: genuine transformation through the Holy Spirit. After Pentecost, Peter no longer crumbled under pressure—he stood boldly, proclaiming the Gospel with courage that came from beyond himself. That same Spirit-filled boldness is still available to those willing to surrender fear, resist compromise, and walk in obedience.This episode calls believers to reject spiritual excuses and rise into faithful, fearless discipleship. Start by immersing yourself in the Word. Surround yourself with uncompromising believers. Choose the narrow road—because while it may be unpopular, it leads to life.The time is now. The world doesn't need more quiet Christians. It needs Spirit-empowered believers who know whom they serve and are unafraid to say so.Peter's denial devotional, Christian podcast about cultural compromise, Holy Spirit empowerment today, standing for Christ in public schools, Luke 9:26 explained, rejecting fear in faith, boldness through Pentecost, Christians in hostile environments, faith over fear podcast, Spirit-filled discipleship, biblical response to cultural pressure, how to stand firm in ChristSupport the showhttps://www.pastorbencooper.co.uk/https://www.rbchristianradio.net/

With each passing day, we learn of new reasons for fear and unrest amidst great ambiguities. Yet Jesus says you can have great peace amidst the unrest and demonstrates it.

With each passing day, we learn of new reasons for fear and unrest amidst great ambiguities. Yet Jesus says you can have great peace amidst the unrest and demonstrates it.

River Of Grace #RTTBROS #Nightlight River Of  Grace: Receiving and GivingScripture Reading: John 8:1-11 (KJV)"Jesus went unto the mount of Olives. And early in the morning he came again into the temple, and all the people came unto him; and he sat down, and taught them. And the scribes and Pharisees brought unto him a woman taken in adultery; and when they had set her in the midst, They say unto him, Master, this woman was taken in adultery, in the very act. Now Moses in the law commanded us, that such should be stoned: but what sayest thou? This they said, tempting him, that they might have to accuse him. But Jesus stooped down, and with his finger wrote on the ground, as though he heard them not. So when they continued asking him, he lifted up himself, and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her. And again he stooped down, and wrote on the ground. And they which heard it, being convicted by their own conscience, went out one by one, beginning at the eldest, even unto the last: and Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst. When Jesus had lifted up himself, and saw none but the woman, he said unto her, Woman, where are those thine accusers? hath no man condemned thee? She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more."---In this powerful scene from John's Gospel, we witness divine grace in action. The accusers came armed with stones and self-righteousness, demanding judgment. Yet Jesus responded with a grace that both convicted and liberated.Consider the contrast you've observed between the Dead Sea and the Sea of Galilee. The Dead Sea receives the Jordan River's waters but has no outlet—it only takes in and never gives out. As a result, its waters become increasingly salty, making it impossible for most life to flourish. The Sea of Galilee, however, both receives and gives, allowing life to thrive within its waters.This natural example perfectly illustrates a spiritual principle: what God gives to us, He expects us to share with others. In 2 Corinthians 1:3-4, we read: "Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God."Grace, by its very nature, must flow outward. When we truly experience God's forgiveness and mercy, it transforms how we view and treat others. The forgiven woman in our passage wasn't told to go prove herself worthy of Jesus' mercy—she was simply instructed to "go, and sin no more." Her encounter with grace became the catalyst for transformation.Those who brought the woman to Jesus carried stones but left empty-handed, convicted by their own conscience. They had yet to understand that they too needed grace. Their hearts were like the Dead Sea—receiving God's blessings but failing to extend mercy to others.Jesus challenges us to examine our hearts with His penetrating question: Have I experienced God's grace in a rich enough way to express it to those around me? If I find myself quick to judge, slow to forgive, or resistant to showing mercy, perhaps I have not fully comprehended the depth of grace I've received.In Matthew 10:8, Jesus instructs his disciples: "Freely ye have received, freely give." Grace is not meant to terminate with us but to flow through us. When we grasp how much we've been forgiven, extending that same grace to others becomes not a burden but a natural response.Today, consider whether your life resembles the Dead Sea or the Sea of Galilee. Are you merely receiving God's grace, or are you also allowing it to flow through you to others? Remember the woman caught in adultery and how a single encounter with Jesus' grace changed everything for her. That same transformative grace is available to us—and through us—today.

"Why do you seek the living among the dead?" This question from the angels at Jesus' empty tomb challenges everything we assume about death, life, and how forgiveness operates. When confronted with the resurrection, we must reconsider our understanding of reconciliation and forgiveness.Our natural instinct when wronged is to establish boundaries and limits. Peter approached Jesus with this very mindset, asking, "Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?" He sought permission to draw a line in the sand. Jesus responded by transforming the question entirely, shifting from a limit to a lifestyle of forgiveness.The story becomes deeply personal when we consider Peter's own failure. After boldly declaring his loyalty, Peter denied Jesus three times beside a charcoal fire. Yet after resurrection, Jesus intentionally prepared another charcoal fire on the shore, creating the perfect setting for reconciliation. Before Peter even swam the hundred yards to reach him, Jesus had already set the stage for healing.This message outlines five practical ways to know if we've truly forgiven someone: Have we released their debt? Do we entrust justice to God rather than seeking vengeance? Do we wish them good rather than harm? Are we actively pursuing reconciliation? And most importantly, are we viewing them through the lens of what Christ has done for us rather than what they've done against us?Forgiveness isn't primarily about feelings but choices. Like the women who couldn't properly honor Jesus' body before the Sabbath but discovered he was already risen, we often feel our efforts at forgiveness are inadequate. Yet Jesus works in the unseen while we wait. He prepares the shore, starts the fire, and waits for us to simply come to him. If you want to learn more about the MidTree story or connect with us, go to our website HERE or text us at 812-MID-TREE.

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=""] Power in the Dark In our darkest hours—when we feel alone, frightened, and powerless—Jesus shows us another way. Join us in Luke 22:47–71 as we witness Jesus in His darkest hour. Though betrayed, denied, and condemned, He remains calm, courageous, and utterly in control. The BetrayalJudas betrays Jesus with a kiss. Yet Jesus, fully aware, steps forward, protects His disciples, heals His enemy, and confronts the powers of darkness. The DenialPeter denies Jesus three times. But Jesus, knowing all of Peter's failures, still loves, prays for, and later restores him. The Omniscient One is denied, but never vindictive. The CouncilIn a sham trial, Jesus refuses to play their game. Instead, He boldly proclaims Himself the Son of Man, seated at the right hand of God. Condemned, but never vanquished. Takeaway:It might look like the powers of darkness are winning.But it is King Jesus who wields Power in the Dark. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

"Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth." Matthew 5:5In a world that prizes self-assertion, self-promotion, pride, and personal rights--the meek are overlooked, even despised. Yet Jesus declares that it is the meek--the lowly, the humble--who are truly blessed.This meekness is not natural to the human heart. It does not come from a gentle personality or a quiet temperament. True meekness is the fruit of the Spirit and springs from a heart humbled before a holy God. It flows from the soul that has been . . . emptied of self-righteousness, broken over sin, and made to bow before the majesty of divine holiness.The meek man sees himself rightly--as a sinner saved by grace alone. He does not fight for his own importance or honor, because he knows he has none in himself. He is content to be little, because Christ is everything. Like Job, he says, "Behold, I am vile!" Job 40:4. And like the publican, he beats his breast, crying, "God, have mercy on me, a sinner!" Luke 18:13Yet far from being weak, meekness is a mark of true strength. It takes far more power to submit to God's will, to quietly bear wrongs, and to put others before oneself, than to rise up in pride and retaliation. The meek do not demand their way--they trust God to order all things for their good and His glory.And what is their reward? "They shall inherit the earth." Though now they may be poor, obscure, and afflicted--they shall one day reign with Christ. The proud may rule for a season, but it is the meek who will possess the earth when Jesus returns to make all things new. The new heavens and the new earth are prepared not for the boastful, but for the lowly and humble in heart.

In Mark's Gospel, we meet a man who asks Jesus what he must do to inherit eternal life. Jesus lovingly challenges him to release his possessions and follow him. But the man walks away, unable to let go of the pride he places in his wealth and accomplishments. Pride often masks a deeper fear—the fear of losing control, appearing weak, or depending on others. Yet Jesus calls us to humility and faith, reminding us that true security comes from trusting in God.

By William Bradford - The statistical probability of one man being born and fulfilling the prophecies of the Messiah is astronomical. Yet Jesus fulfilled every last one of them. This study covers just a few prophecies that Jesus fulfilled to prove he is the Christ. This study, focusing towards the end of the study on

Send us a textThe ancient tale of the rich man and Lazarus cuts through centuries to confront us with uncomfortable truths about eternity. Jesus's vivid narrative takes us beyond the grave, revealing the shocking reality that awaits us all.We journey alongside two men whose earthly circumstances couldn't be more different. One draped in purple and fine linen, hosting sumptuous feasts daily behind his imposing gate. The other, Lazarus, covered in sores and starving, longing merely for fallen crumbs while dogs lick his wounds in a pitiful display of the only comfort available to him. Yet Jesus deliberately names the beggar while leaving the wealthy man anonymous—a profound reversal that speaks volumes about true significance in God's economy.The afterlife scene unfolds with dramatic intensity as positions suddenly reverse. Lazarus rests in Abraham's bosom—paradise—while the once-privileged man suffers torment, separated by an unbridgeable chasm. His desperate plea for a drop of water echoes with terrible irony, as does his request that Lazarus warn his five brothers. Abraham's sobering response—that those who reject Scripture won't be convinced even by someone rising from the dead—foreshadows how many would reject Christ's own resurrection.This teaching transcends mere theological debate about whether it's a parable. Its timeless warning speaks directly to our hearts: earthly status means nothing in eternity, compassion reveals true faith, and our response to God's Word determines our eternal destiny. The great gulf is fixed after death, but while we live, we can choose which side we'll occupy forever. Will you, like the rich man, pursue temporal comfort at eternal cost? Or will your name, like Lazarus, be known and cherished by God himself?Support the show

Send us a textThe parable of Lazarus and the rich man stands as one of the most powerful commentaries on wealth, compassion, and eternal consequences ever told. We dive deep into this ancient narrative that feels shockingly relevant to our modern, capitalism-driven world.Lazarus—whose name means both "God helped" and, ironically, "beggar" or "leper"—sits helpless outside a rich man's gate, covered in sores, longing for mere crumbs from the wealthy man's table. In a stunning detail that captured our conversation, dogs—animals considered utterly unclean in ancient Jewish culture—show more compassion to Lazarus by licking his wounds than the wealthy man who completely ignores his suffering. This powerful image reveals how even the most despised elements of society treated this vulnerable man with more dignity than the privileged person who had abundant resources to help.When both men die, their fates dramatically reverse. Lazarus is carried by angels to "Abraham's bosom"—a place of honor and comfort—while the rich man finds himself in torment, able to see but unable to reach the paradise where Lazarus now rests. This reversal powerfully illustrates Jesus's teaching that "the last shall be first, and the first shall be last."Our discussion explores various interpretations of Abraham's bosom, the nature of the afterlife, and the unbridgeable gulf between these two eternal destinations. More importantly, we examine what this parable reveals about our own attitudes toward wealth and the vulnerable people at our gates today. As one participant pointedly observed, "If you speak against capitalism in this country, you are the devil." Yet Jesus consistently challenged the wealthy to examine their priorities.Who are you in this story? The rich person enjoying abundance while ignoring suffering at your doorstep? Or are you Lazarus, holding onto faith despite life's hardships? Perhaps most importantly—are you showing the compassion that even the dogs demonstrated, or are you too preoccupied with your own comfort to notice those in need?Support the show

Who doesn't like to eat? Food for sure is necessary for physical nourishment, but also brings enjoyment and pleasure. The opposite is fasting, a common practice in ancient times for followers of Jesus, but not so much today. Yet Jesus said, "Love the Lord with all of your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all of your strength." (Mark 12:30 NIV) A relationship with Jesus is wholistic, requiring both our minds AND our bodies. And fasting is "one of the best disciplines we have to reintegrate our mind to our body, and offer our whole selves to God in surrender." (Comer) Fasting can help us to be with Jesus, to become like Jesus, and to live as he did. This week is part one in the Practice of Fasting: to Offer Ourselves to Jesus. "Offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God - this is your true and proper worship." (Romans 12:1 NIV)

Who doesn't like to eat? Food for sure is necessary for physical nourishment, but also brings enjoyment and pleasure. The opposite is fasting, a common practice in ancient times for followers of Jesus, but not so much today. Yet Jesus said, "Love the Lord with all of your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all of your strength." (Mark 12:30 NIV) A relationship with Jesus is wholistic, requiring both our minds AND our bodies. And fasting is "one of the best disciplines we have to reintegrate our mind to our body, and offer our whole selves to God in surrender." (Comer) Fasting can help us to be with Jesus, to become like Jesus, and to live as he did. This week is part one in the Practice of Fasting: to Offer Ourselves to Jesus. "Offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God - this is your true and proper worship." (Romans 12:1 NIV)

Jesus delivers a scathing critique of religious hypocrisy that cuts straight to the heart of authentic faith. When the Pharisees criticize his disciples for skipping ritual hand-washing, Jesus exposes something far more serious: these religious leaders had elevated their traditions above God's actual commands.The conversation reveals a dangerous progression that begins with hearts distant from God and ends with completely invalidating Scripture through man-made rules. This pattern remains alarmingly relevant today. Many still believe performing enough religious activities—whether lighting candles, saying prayers, or even regular church attendance—can somehow earn God's favor. Yet Jesus makes clear that authentic worship flows from a transformed heart, not external performance. Examine your spiritual practices today—are they drawing you closer to God or merely checking boxes? Remember that faith in Christ, not religious activity, is what reconciles us to our Creator.Support the showThank you for listening!! Please give us a five-star rating to help your podcast provider's algorithm spread RTTB among their listeners. You can find free study and leader resources at the following link - Resource Page - Reasoning Through the Bible Please prayerfully consider supporting RTTB to help us to continue providing content and free resources. You can do that at this link - Support RTTB - Reasoning Through the Bible May God Bless you!! - Glenn and Steve

God's love is trippy. It defies logic, breaks rules, and operates outside our practical understanding of what love should be. Drawing inspiration from the Jesus People Movement of the late 1960s—when hippies turned to Christ in drastic numbers—this message explores how God's radical, pursuing love transforms our understanding of faith.Many of us operate under a fundamental misconception: that we must earn our way to God through better behavior or by cleaning ourselves up first. Others believe they've messed up too much to ever be accepted. Both perspectives create a false image of a distant, unapproachable deity waiting to judge us. But what if the fundamental truth of Christianity is that God made the first move toward us?Throughout the gospels, Jesus confronted the "bounded set" thinking of religious leaders who carefully determined who was in and who was out based on strict rules. Instead, Jesus demonstrated "centered set" thinking—like a well in a desert that people move toward from wherever they start. The religious elite couldn't handle how Jesus dismantled their gatekeeping system simply by sitting at tables with "notorious sinners" and tax collectors.The parable of the lost sheep perfectly illustrates God's pursuing love. No shepherd would logically leave ninety-nine sheep unprotected to search for one stray—that's terrible shepherding! Yet Jesus describes a God who does exactly that, finding the lost one and joyfully carrying it home on his shoulders. This isn't a God who scolds or shames upon finding us, but one who celebrates our return.Why would a perfect God pursue imperfect people? Because you are valuable to Him. Your passion is revealed in your pursuit, and God's passionate pursuit of humanity led Christ to the cross and beyond it. While we hide in our shame like Adam and Eve in the garden, God keeps calling, "Where are you?"—not to condemn, but to connect.Before trying harder or doing more, perhaps all we need is to let ourselves be found. Maybe it's time to give Jesus your simple "yes" even while acknowledging you don't have everything figured out. His trippy, far-out love is waiting, ready to carry you home.Support the showMade a decision to follow Jesus? We want to know about it! Fill out our connect card here: https://local.churchcenter.com/people/forms/115766Thank you for your generosity. For information on how to give, visit https://localvineyard.church/give.

Return of the Man-Child (3) (audio) David Eells – 3/19/25  Taking up where we left off, we read, And thou Bethlehem, land of Judah, Art in no wise least among the princes of Judah: For out of thee shall come forth a governor, Who shall be shepherd of my people Israel (Mat.2:6). We know that Jesus is always going to be the Shepherd; He's always going to be the King David over Israel. God is never going to change that, but there are some things that He might change, as we'll see. Previously, we learned that the Lord said, A body didst thou prepare for me (Heb.10:5). The Lord, Son of God, came in a body that was prepared for Him through Mary, a body of the Son of Man. We know that God's plan was for Jesus to leave an individual body and return in a corporate body so that He could minister all over the world. Today we are going to see the first-fruits of those who have fully entered into this by the grace of God. In other words, the first-fruits will be a body like the body of His temple that He spoke about when He said, Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up (Joh.2:19). (21) But he spake of the temple of his body. And we've discovered that's referring to His corporate body.   We know that the Lord comes in every one of us. For instance, He says, Try your own selves, whether ye are in the faith; prove your own selves. Or know ye not as to your own selves, that Jesus Christ is in you? unless indeed ye be reprobate (2Co.13:5). (Col.1:27) … Christ in you, the hope of glory. Jesus Christ is in you! All through the Old Testament, Jesus was coming in vessels of honor through whom He ministered. For example, it says this: (1Pe.1:10) Concerning which salvation the prophets sought and searched diligently, who prophesied of the grace that [should come] unto you: (11) searching what [time] or what manner of time the Spirit of Christ which was in them did point unto, when it testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ, and the glories that should follow them. The Spirit of Christ was in great men of the Old Testament and that's what made them great men. He is the Shepherd; He is the Ruler; He is the King David and always will be, but He's going to repeat history because That which hath been is that which shall be (Ecc.1:9).   I'm reminded of a very famous text that speaks of Who Jesus is: (Isa.9:6) For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father (or “Father of eternity,” literally), Prince of Peace. (7) Of the increase of his government and of peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to establish it, and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this. God called Jesus to repeat history Himself. He was a King David in His day, Who was given, once again, the reins of government, which is in total agreement with what the Bible says about Him.   (Luk.1:31) And behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS. (32) He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Most High: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: (33) and he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end. So He would receive the throne of David forever, just as the Bible speaks about when it states, David shall never want (“lack”) a man to sit upon the throne of the house of Israel (Jer.33:17).   For example, the Bible says this: (Jer.33:14) Behold, the days come, saith the Lord, that I will perform that good word which I have spoken concerning the house of Israel and concerning the house of Judah. (15) In those days, and at that time, will I cause a Branch of righteousness to grow up unto David (now, this was a long time after David); and he shall execute justice and righteousness in the land. (16) In those days shall Judah be saved, and Jerusalem shall dwell safely; and this is [the name] whereby she shall be called … That's a very strange text, but if nobody had changed what word was actually there in the Hebrew, that's what they would have had to translate; the word is “she.” It's strange because in Chapter 23 the word is “he,” but here it is “she.” Some people think, “Well, he made a mistake and they replaced it with ‘he.'” They didn't translate what was really there.   The word, “she” is used quite often in the Bible when referring to a corporate body of people and that's what this is. This is a corporate body, which God calls the “branch,” that is raised up as the seed of David. We know that Jesus Christ is our David on His throne all the way up through eternity, but as we saw earlier, the Spirit of Christ comes into many men and we have seen many from the beginning of Scripture to the end who are types of the Man-child. The Spirit of Christ comes into them and uses them, like a body of the son of David. (Jer.33:16) In those days shall Judah be saved, and Jerusalem shall dwell safely; and this is [the name] whereby she shall be called: the Lord our righteousness. Notice that this is a corporate body of people, “our righteousness.” (Jer.33:17) For thus saith the Lord: David shall never want a man to sit upon the throne of the house of Israel.   Now we know that Jesus the Son of God has been given the authority of David's throne for eternity, but the question is, what is the “man” that He abides in who does this work? This is what the branch is; it's a corporate body of men in whom the Spirit of Christ rules and reigns. (Jer.33:18) Neither shall the priests the Levites want a man before me to offer burnt-offerings, and to burn meal-offerings, and to do sacrifice continually. (19) And the word of the Lord came unto Jeremiah, saying, (20) Thus saith the Lord: If ye can break my covenant of the day, and my covenant of the night, so that there shall not be day and night in their season; (21) then may also my covenant be broken with David my servant, that he shall not have a son to reign upon his throne; and with the Levites the priests, my ministers. In other words, this is from the time of David up until the time of Christ and until our time; so it appears that He never broke His covenant with David. There was always a David upon the throne. Isn't that amazing?   I would suspect that you could not recognize this corporate body according to the flesh. (Luk.17:20) … The kingdom of God cometh not with observation. We're talking about a spiritual Israel, a spiritual Jerusalem, and a spiritual David. Many people recognize, that Jesus was the Son of David and that He was born of the seed of David according to the flesh (Rom.1:3), but He was declared [to be] the Son of God with power, according to the spirit (4). What body could the Lord be choosing in our day to fulfill this covenant of a man in whom Jesus Christ lives to occupy the throne? Well, it's the body of the Man-child (Revelation 12:5), which we've spoken of. (Jer.33:22) As the host of heaven cannot be numbered, neither the sand of the sea measured; so will I multiply the seed of David my servant, and the Levites that minister unto me.   I am sure you could look at that in a certain way, meaning multiplied throughout history, but I suspect it also means (and the Lord likes to hide things like that) that in these days there will be a great number of Davids and that this, “the Lord our righteousness,” is a very large group of people. (Jer.33:25) Thus saith the Lord: If my covenant of day and night [stand] not (Is it still in effect? I would say so.), if I have not appointed the ordinances of heaven and earth; (26) then will I also cast away the seed of Jacob, and of David my servant, so that I will not take of his seed to be rulers over the seed of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (The seed of David is to be rulers over the seed of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.): for I will cause their captivity to return, and will have mercy on them. In these days, we know that even with the natural seed of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, a remnant of them is once again going to turn to the Lord God of Israel.   We read in the last study that in Revelation 12, the son of David, this Man-child is caught up to the throne of God. And here we see the Bible says, Blessed be the Lord thy God, who delighted in thee, to set thee on his throne, to be king for the Lord thy God (2Ch.9:8). Many people see the Man-child caught up to the throne of God in heaven, but the Lord God is calling David's throne on Earth His throne. This is the throne of God. In fact, it says here, At that time they shall call Jerusalem the throne of the Lord (Jer.3:17). Jeremiah is talking about the New Jerusalem on Earth. There is still a throne of David. Not in natural Israel, but you can find it in spiritual Israel because we know that Jesus Christ is the Son of David, the eternal Lord of His Kingdom. And He's also coming in a body, A body didst thou prepare for me (Heb.10:5).   You may say, “That was referring to the body of the individual Jesus.” That's true, but everything repeats and it always repeats on a larger scale. We have the Word of God for that, which cannot be broken (Joh.10:35). So we have to believe that it will be the same thing once again. The Lord told me many years ago, “Everything that has happened in the Gospels and in the Book of Acts will happen again, except the cast of characters will be multiplied many times over.” The Lord thy God, who delighted in thee, to set thee on his throne, to be king for the Lord thy God (2Ch.9:8) is true of Jesus. It's true of the body of Jesus and we've already spoken of the manifestation of the body of Christ, that we all claim to be by faith, and rightly so. But we've discovered that there is also a manifestation of the body of Christ, that is, those in whom Christ lives. If Christ lives in you, then you manifestly are the body of Christ. We've taught that we grow into this wonderful position 30-, 60- and 100-fold, according to Jesus Himself, so God is fulfilling it in that way.   Let me share something else with you. Remember that the Lord told me that the Gospels were a type of the first 3½ years of the Tribulation period and the Book of Acts was a type of the second 3½ years. Now we know that other types of the end-time Man-child show different similarities. For instance, Joseph brought God's people through the seven years of famine, which is a type of the seven-year Tribulation. We also know that Moses took God's people geographically halfway through the wilderness and we know that Revelation chapters 12 and 17 speak of the first and second 3½ years, respectively, and call the “wilderness” the “Tribulation.” Moses went halfway through the wilderness and then was glorified. When I say halfway, I'm not talking about time-wise, but in geographical distance. Some people, myself included, believe that the Lord brought His people across what we now call the Gulf of Suez, high up near where Succoth was, where the Gulf narrowed down quite a bit. Then He carried them across the Sinai Peninsula, where they crossed the Gulf of Aqaba, which they called the “Red Sea.”   Apostle Paul said, Mount Sinai in Arabia (Gal.4:25), not in Sinai. Arabia is east of the Gulf of Aqaba. I had heard years ago that the explorer Ron Wyatt had come across the pillar that the Israelites had erected to identify the place where the children of Israel crossed the Red Sea and it was on the eastern shore of Aqaba. They also discovered out there the mountain that Exodus 19 speaks of being burnt and charred on the top because God's presence came down on it, which was Mt. Sinai, and found it as a place called Jabal al-Lawz, which means “the Mount of the Law.” That's interesting because that's where Moses received the Law. If you look, which I have, on several maps, you can see where the Israelites left Egypt and crossed the Gulf of Suez. And if you follow that on down to Jabal al-Lawz and then follow that point and return back up to where they crossed into the Promised Land, you find that it is like an isosceles triangle (where the two legs are approximately even).   I thought the Lord was pointing out to me at that time that Moses went halfway through the wilderness (meaning 3½ years) and at that point he was glorified. Like Moses, Jesus went 3½ years through His ministry before He was glorified. I believe that Mount Sinai is Jabal al-Lawz in Arabia. Many signs seem to confirm that, even though the Saudi Arabians have fenced the mount off. They do not want Christians going in there.   By the way, at the foot of Jabal al-Lawz is the altar where the golden calf was set. Of course, the golden calf isn't there anymore, but the altar is. There are quite a few other artifacts there, including several hieroglyphics depicting the golden calf scratched into the rocks in the area of the altar. These finds make it very plain that this is the correct spot and I believe Ron Wyatt even took pictures of chariot wheels submerged in the Gulf of Aqaba, which further makes the case that it was the real Red Sea, not the Gulf of Suez. It would have taken the Israelites three months to travel from Egypt to Jabal al-Lawz. It took them a lot longer to get to the Promised Land because they were disobedient by worshipping the golden calf, but it was geographically halfway. I believe the Lord was showing me the two 3½-year periods of the wilderness Tribulation.   At any rate, we have a pretty good confirmation right here: (Exo.34:29) And it came to pass, when Moses came down from mount Sinai with the two tables of the testimony in Moses' hand … The two tables of the Testimony are the same thing as the Tables of Witness, the Two Witnesses. The Man-child is going to give to God's people the Two Witnesses, upon whose heart the Word of God is written, not upon tables of stone. There's a fulfillment here of that. (Exo.34:29) And it came to pass, when Moses came down from mount Sinai with the two tables of the testimony in Moses' hand, when he came down from the mount, that Moses knew not that the skin of his face shone by reason of his speaking with him. In other words, Moses had come face-to-face with God. We know that we all, with unveiled face beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are transformed into the same image from glory to glory (2Co.3:18). This is the type and the shadow here of God's people, at least the first-fruits, coming into the Image of God. It even says, The first of the first-fruits of thy ground thou shalt bring unto the house of the Lord thy God (Exo.34:26). There is a type of the first-fruits here and it is Moses. It would have been Jesus in His time, but here it's Moses.   So after Moses came face-to-face with God, Moses manifested His glory. I believe what's being said here is that this is a glorified soul, not a glorified body. The Man-child goes through three stages of perfection. I believe that when Jesus started His ministry, He was perfected in Spirit by the Holy Spirit because He was anointed with the Holy Spirit. And when He was crucified, that's a parable about our being crucified, too, in a crucifixion of self 3½ years into the Tribulation. When a parable is first shown (and the Bible does say that Jesus was a sign (Isaiah 7:14), or in Hebrew, an uwth of something to come), it's literal, and the next time it's spiritual.   So we see that the first-fruits, who are only spiritually the Man-child and not physically, as Jesus was, are the spiritual fulfillment of this parable. In the midst of the Tribulation period, the Man-child is going to be glorified in soul because “self” has been crucified. At the end of the Tribulation period, he will be glorified in body. The progression is first spirit, then soul in the middle, and then body. These are the three stages of perfection that God is bringing Himself to in His people. In fact, When he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be marvelled at in all them that believed (because our testimony unto you was believed) in that day (2Th.1:10). And also, But we are bound to give thanks to God always for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, for that God chose you from the beginning unto salvation in sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth (2Th.2:13).   Let's continue in Exodus. (Exo.34:30) And when Aaron and all the children of Israel saw Moses, behold, the skin of his face shone; and they were afraid to come nigh him. (31) And Moses called unto them; and Aaron and all the rulers of the congregation returned unto him: and Moses spake to them. They must have run on down the road because they had to turn around and return to him. (Exo.34:32) And afterward all the children of Israel came nigh: and he gave them in commandment all that the Lord had spoken with him in mount Sinai. (33) And when Moses had done speaking with them, he put a veil on his face. (34) But when Moses went in before the Lord to speak with him, he took the veil off (because he wanted to see the Lord clearly, face-to-face), until he came out; and he came out, and spake unto the children of Israel that which he was commanded. So, Moses was in communication with God face-to-face, but with the children of Israel behind a veil.   This will also be so with the ministry of the Man-child. Jesus said, The Son can do nothing of himself, but what he seeth the Father doing: for what things soever he doeth, these the Son also doeth in like manner (Joh.5:19). Jesus was in close fellowship with the Father; He walked in the Spirit; He saw the Father and He saw the people. Yet Jesus walked also behind a veil, as the Scripture clearly shows us, and we'll see that shortly. (Exo.34:35) And the children of Israel saw the face of Moses, that the skin of Moses' face shone; and Moses put the veil upon his face again, until he went in to speak with him. We're told the same thing about the first-fruits. (Heb.10:19) Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, (20) by the way which He dedicated for us, a new and living way, through the veil, that is to say, His flesh.   So we enter into the presence of God through the veil, which is to say, through His flesh. Jesus' flesh was a veil. The people did not see the real Jesus. They didn't see the glorified man underneath that veil of flesh; they saw the veil. However, when the Lord went into the presence of God, He was in Spirit where there was no veil, speaking with the Father. This is the same thing we see here with Moses. Moses was a type of Jesus and a type of the Man-child. We're getting a description here of the kind of ministry that the Man-child is going to have and it's just like Jesus' ministry.   Seeing God face-to-face makes us capable of manifesting God before His people. (2Co.3:18) But we all, with unveiled face beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are transformed into the same image from glory to glory, even as from the Lord the Spirit. From behind that body of flesh, called a veil, there was a glorified soul, ready to walk through the other half of the wilderness.   Now we know that Moses went all the way through the wilderness, but that's only part of the picture. If we look at other different types of the Man-child, they'll show other parts of the whole picture. For example, we can also see Jesus in Acts where it says, And when they were come over against Mysia, they assayed to go into Bithynia; and the Spirit of Jesus suffered them not (Act.16:7). So Jesus was a type of the second 3½ years of the Man-child during the Tribulation. We know that because the second part of the Tribulation started at the end of Jesus' ministry when He was crucified and it ended with the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 AD, which was the destruction of the Harlot by the Beast. We see that the second 3½ years starts at the end of the first 3½ years and extends to the point of destruction of the Harlot by the Beast. The Book of Acts represents the 40 years between Jesus' ministry and the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 AD. Forty is the number of tribulation.   We're seeing here a perfect parallel between Moses and Jesus. Some have thought that Jesus did not have a ministry after His 3½ years, but He did have a ministry of guiding His people for 3½ years, just like Moses went the other half of the distance through the wilderness to the Promised Land. Moses brought the people all the way and, in type, Jesus did that, too. His glorification in the second 3½ years represents what Moses was when “his face shone.” What we're really referring to in the end times is a glorified soul underneath a body, with the body being the veil that permitted men to look upon that which is glorified and have fellowship without being frightened. We would call it bearing fruit “100-fold.” When the Lord sows the seed of the Word in our hearts, it's to bring forth Himself in us, 30-, 60- and 100-fold (Matthew 13). That's not referring to the body; that's referring to the fruit of Christ in the soul, or in the heart, and that is what we are here for. What makes the first-fruits the first-fruits, is that they have come into this glorified soul and they have come into the crucifixion of self, which is the type that Jesus showed us.   If we look at the timing of Exodus 34, we find that it falls in the middle of the Tribulation period. How do we know that? Well, for instance, in Chapter 32, we see what happened there was, they made the image of the beast and worshipped it. That's a pretty clear sign of being the middle of the Tribulation period. What came along with worshiping the image of the Beast, according to Revelation 14, was the mark of the Beast. So we see them there in Chapter 32 bowing down to this image of the beast and we see God's rebuke of them, and we see the Tables of the Testimony were cast down and broken.   (Exo.32:19) And it came to pass, as soon as he came nigh unto the camp, that he saw the calf and the dancing: and Moses' anger waxed hot, and he cast the tables out of his hands, and brake them beneath the mount. We know the two Tables of the Testimony represent the Two Witnesses corporate body because “witness” and “testimony” are the same word. So Moses the Man-child, as a type of Jesus Christ, brings the two witnesses with the Word of God written upon their heart to the people of God, which is what Jesus did with His disciples when He sent them out two-by-two. They were a corporate body of two witnesses to go to God's people and bring the Law, that was written upon their hearts, to them. It's an exact type and shadow of what we see here.   However, it says here, he saw the calf and the dancing (in other words, the people were worshiping the image of the beast): and Moses' anger waxed hot, and he cast the tables out of his hands, and brake them beneath the mount (Exo.32:19). So not only did Jesus bring the Two Witnesses, but the people in their sins “broke” them. I believe that the Apostle John was the only one who died a natural death of old age. The rest of the apostles were all killed. The apostates “broke” their Two Witnesses. We see what God says about this situation a few verses later: (Exo.32:26) Then Moses stood in the gate of the camp, and said, Whoso is on the Lord's side, [let him come] unto me. And all the sons of Levi gathered themselves together unto him. These are the only people who did not worship the image of the beast from among the camp of God's people.   We're told that God has chosen us to be a kingdom of priests. (Exo.19:5) Now therefore, if ye will obey my voice indeed, and keep my covenant, then ye shall be mine own possession from among all peoples: for all the earth is mine: (6) and ye shall be unto me a kingdom of priests, and a holy nation … In other words, all of God's people were called to be priests because we all offer sacrifices unto God and we especially offer up this body as a living sacrifice unto the Lord. On the altar of the fiery trial, the old flesh is burned up, which is what our sacrificial life is supposed to be.   The people who did sacrifice, the Levites, did not join in with the rest in worshiping the image of the beast. The true Levites, the tribe that followed God, were God's inheritance. It was the firstborn from among all of Israel who were His inheritance and then God changed that to be the Levites. Those priests were His inheritance, He said, and God was their inheritance. Those Levites were the ones who were on the Lord's side. (Exo.32:27) And he said unto them, Thus saith the Lord, the God of Israel, Put ye every man his sword upon his thigh, and go to and fro from gate to gate throughout the camp, and slay every man his brother, and every man his companion, and every man his neighbor. Well, as you know, those who worship the image of the Beast are slain because they no longer belong to the body of Christ; they belong to the Beast. The mark of the Beast is the sign of his ownership and those on whom have the mark, belong to him. They are dead; they're no longer living.   The Levites will have the authority to bring great judgment on the earth and, again, we're talking about the middle of the Tribulation period because we're referring to the mark and image of the Beast being manifested. This was the time that Moses was glorified; this was the time when the Two Witnesses were beginning to be killed. (Rev.11:8) And their dead bodies [lie] in the street of the great city (that's Babylon, not Jerusalem), which spiritually is called Sodom and Egypt, where also their Lord was crucified. (9) And from among the peoples and tribes and tongues and nations do [men] look upon their dead bodies three days and a half, and suffer not their dead bodies to be laid in a tomb. “Three days and a half” is half of the seven “days” of the 70th week of Daniel 9, which makes it 3½ years that the Two Witnesses will be killed. From the time of the middle of the Tribulation to the end of the Tribulation, they are being killed.   When they finish their testimony, this great group of witnesses (prophets) will be allowed by God to be killed and they're resurrected in the last trump of Revelation 11:15. But in response it is Moses, it is the Manchild, who sends the Levites forth to slay the members of the body of the Beast. (Exo.32:28) And the sons of Levi did according to the word of Moses: and there fell of the people that day about three thousand men. (29) And Moses said, Consecrate yourselves today to the Lord, yea, every man against his son, and against his brother; that he may bestow upon you a blessing this day. (30) And it came to pass on the morrow, that Moses said unto the people, Ye have sinned a great sin: and now I will go up unto the Lord; peradventure I shall make atonement for your sin. (31) And Moses returned unto the Lord, and said, Oh, this people have sinned a great sin, and have made them gods of gold. (32) Yet now, if thou wilt forgive their sin—; and if not, blot me, I pray thee, out of thy book which thou hast written.   Moses wanted to take the place of the people, which is also what Jesus did, but how many of you know that Jesus' sacrifice will not apply to everybody in the end? (Heb.10:26) For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more a sacrifice for sins, (27) but a certain fearful expectation of judgment, and a fierceness of fire which shall devour the adversaries. People who live a life of willful sin and indulgence in the world will die. As the Bible says, If ye live after the flesh, ye must die (Rom.8:13). Walking after the flesh is to take the mark of the Beast because the mind of the flesh and the works of the flesh is to take the mark. Those people who are walking in sin willfully and do so up until death will have no sacrifice.   (Exo.32:33) And the Lord said unto Moses, Whosoever hath sinned against me, him will I blot out of my book. In other words, God would not take the sacrifice of Moses for those people who worshipped the image of the Beast and took the mark. In fact, in Revelation 14:9-11, He says that there is no sacrifice for them. This is a way of separating those people who are Christian in name only from those who are Levites, the kingdom of priests that God said would come. “Whosoever hath sinned against me, him will I blot out of my book.” That sounds like reprobation to me.   (Exo.32:34) And now go, lead the people unto [the place] of which I have spoken unto thee: behold, mine angel shall go before thee; nevertheless in the day when I visit, I will visit their sin upon them. (35) And the Lord smote the people, because they made the calf, which Aaron made. This is clearly referring to the time of the middle of the Tribulation period, when Moses in type as the Man-child is glorified, at least in soul underneath that body of flesh, in order to carry them all the way to the Promised Land, which in one parable we would call the “Kingdom of Heaven.” At the end of the seven years, that's exactly where God's people go. Just like Noah, they'll be in the Ark; it lifts off and they're in the Kingdom of Heaven.   I think it would make a very good study to do an Internet search for “Jabal al-Lawz” and learn about some of the things that have been discovered about this particular mountain. Again, it's not located in the middle of the wilderness by time; it's only the middle of the wilderness by geography, by distance. But that's where the altar of the golden calf was and that's where the fire burned the top of the mountain and where Moses was given the Law to give to the people. It's very interesting. Actually, the first time Moses was on the mountain was way back in Exodus 19 and this is the second time he's on the mountain because this had to fulfill the type. So we have Joseph going, as a type of the Man-child, seven years, and we have Moses, as a type of the Man-child, going through the first and the second half of the Tribulation, which were both called “the wilderness.” Now we have Jesus also going through the two halves, in the Gospels and the Book of Acts, as well.   As we said earlier, the Spirit of Jesus was surely in those disciples. Jesus said, It is the spirit that giveth life; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I have spoken unto you are spirit, and are life (Joh.6:63). His words went into those disciples and recreated Himself in them. The spirit in them was the Spirit of Christ. He had taken on a new body, but it was still the Spirit of Christ. When the first-fruits show up, I believe very shortly, in our day, this is what we're going to find. They are the body of the Son of David which sits upon God's throne. It's not a throne somewhere up there in the sky, but it's the throne here on the earth that spiritually is the leadership of God's people. The throne is the place of leadership.   I had quoted Jeremiah earlier, but only a part of it. It says, At that time they shall call Jerusalem the throne of the Lord; and all the nations shall be gathered unto it (So you know it's not natural Jerusalem because the Gentiles are coming to it.), to the name of the Lord, to Jerusalem: neither shall they walk any more after the stubbornness of their evil heart (Jer.3:17). This is the end time, obviously, because this has not been true at any time in history. It has to be the “latter days” because, truly, when these people come to the throne, God has perfected them, matured them, and made them ready for the Kingdom of Heaven.   (Jer.3:18) In those days the house of Judah shall walk with the house of Israel, and they shall come together out of the land of the north (which was captivity) to the land that I gave for an inheritance unto your fathers. Our early church fathers were given all of the land for an inheritance, but for 2000 years we have not entered into it. It was the same with Israel. In the beginning, God gave them the whole land, which represented the Land of Promise, but I don't think they ever set foot on any more than about a third of it and actually take possession of it.   Well, in these last days, we are going to take possession of all of the land that was given to our fathers; we're going to take possession of all of the Land of Promise, representing all of the promises of God that we're going to walk in. We are going to enter into the land of rest. (Heb.4:3) For we who have believed do enter into that rest … We're actually going to keep the real Sabbath, not the shadow, and it is to walk in all of the Land of Promise that the Lord gave unto us. Once again, God's people will be walking as the early disciples walked. They'll be walking in the power of God, in the anointing of God and in the knowledge of the truth, only this time it will be the latter rain.   When he began to walk with God, Moses was the one who had the former rain (or the latter rain, in type) because God took of the anointing that was upon Moses and put it upon the 70 elders. If you remember, that's the same thing that happened to Jesus. Jesus was the One Who came with the former rain and He was the only One Who had it, but the people whom He raised up as disciples were later given this anointing. When Jesus first sent His disciples out during the first 3½ years, they didn't have that anointing. What they had was authority given by the Lord. He said, “You go and do this,” and they went out and healed the sick and cast out devils and raised the dead (Matthew 10). Jesus was their authority. But then He said that God was also going to send “another Comforter” (John 14:16) and we know that was the Holy Spirit Who came in the middle of the Tribulation, on Pentecost, in the middle of the seven years and at the end of the 3½ years of Jesus' ministry. The disciples received the former rain and went out with that anointing to do the works of Jesus.   Jesus said the Spirit of God shall take of mine, and shall declare [it] unto you (Joh.16:14). One of the jobs of the Holy Spirit is to recreate in us, through the anointing (because “Christ” means “anointed”), the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. It is impossible to do that without the anointing, which breaks the yoke (Isaiah 10:27). It is Not by might, nor by power (meaning man's might and power), but by my Spirit, saith the Lord of hosts (Zec.4:6). The Lord is about to make this possible. The anointing that was upon Moses, the Lord later took and put upon those 70 elders. Jesus also had 70 whom He sent out and the anointing came upon them.   I especially like what it says a little further down in the text. (Jer.3:19) But I said, How I will put thee among the children, and give thee a pleasant land, a goodly heritage of the hosts of the nations! and I said, Ye shall call me My Father, and shall not turn away from following me. He had already said, “Neither shall they walk any more after the stubbornness of their evil heart.” Wow! This is awesome! I dare say, that most of the people of God do not know Him as Father. They know Him as “God,” a very distant name. But know Him as Father? This is the relationship the Lord is going to establish by bringing us into the manifestation of the sons of God (Romans 8:19). Jesus was the Son of God and always called Him “Father.” Get out your concordance and look it up. He did not call Him all the names that the Jewish Christians or the Judaized Christians wanted to call Him. Jesus called Him “Father” and this is what He says we will call Him. This is what we'll know Him as – as “Father,” like Jesus knew Him. He used the term over and over, all the way through the Gospels.   These people are going to be coming back out of the land of the north (as we see from Jeremiah 3:14 on down), out of bondage, back to Zion. Zion is the place where King David ruled and Zion is the place where Jesus ruled, not in the flesh, but in the Spirit. Jesus was ruling in a new city of Jerusalem and the Apostle Paul told the disciples that they are come unto mount Zion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem (Heb.12:22) while they were on the earth. So, once again, God is restoring the Kingdom.   As Jesus came to restore the Kingdom, the Man-child is coming to restore, to rebuild spiritual, heavenly Jerusalem on this earth and to sit as the body in whom the King Jesus Christ lives. God has said, David shall never want (“lack”) a man to sit upon the throne of the house of Israel (Jer.33:17). Inside that “man” is going to be the King of kings and He is going to get all the credit. The King of kings is coming inside the body of the Son of David. Glory be to God! Isn't it neat the way God has put this parable together over and over, so we would understand sooner or later?   Father, in the Name of Jesus, we thank You so much, Lord, for helping us to see these wondrous things and we enjoy seeing the New Testament in our time, Lord, the Gospel time period. You are going to repeat this again. Oh, what a wondrous time we are coming to! A time of great glory, a time when the Lord Himself is coming to fellowship with us and live in our midst, as He lived in the midst of the Tabernacle in the wilderness, Lord. He came in the midst of His people. Jesus is Immanuel, “God with us,” and we thank You, Lord. We want so much for You to live in our midst. Those people who bowed to the golden calf, You were angered with and said You would no longer go in the midst of those people because they were a stiff-necked people. Lord, we know that's true of those who worship the image of the Beast, but it's not true of Your true people, who are Your true Levites, Your chosen ministers. Lord, we praise You and we thank You for the privilege of having You walking in our midst. We ask You, Lord, to finish the promise that You gave us, the promise that You gave to the fathers. Cause us to walk on all of the land that You gave to them, Lord, which our forefathers lost out on during the Dark Ages all the way up until the time we are in now. Thank You for being our Father and our Savior, in Jesus' name. Amen.  

Welcome to the Amen Podcast, where we believe that the gospel changes everything. Today's message explores Matthew 22:41-46, where Jesus challenges the Pharisees with a profound question about his identity.Scripture Reading: Matthew 22:41-46Now, while the Pharisees were gathered together, Jesus, asked them a question, saying, "What do you think about the Christ? Whose son is he?" They said to him, "The Son of David." He said to them, "How is it then, that David in the spirit calls him Lord, saying, 'The Lord said to my Lord, sit at my right hand until I put your enemies under your feet?' If then David calls him Lord, how is he his son?" And no one was able to answer him a word, nor from that day did anyone dare to ask him any more questions.The Big Revelation: Jesus is More Than You ThinkI was watching surfing with my son Leon recently. He had a sudden interest in it, partly because he wanted to connect with something I enjoy, but also because he's spent enough time in the water himself to understand the scale of those waves.When you don't surf or go to the ocean much, every wave looks the same. It all blends together - same guy, same wave, over and over. But the closer you get to surfing, the bigger the experience becomes.It's the same with the Lord. The closer you get to God, the bigger He gets to you.The Pharisees were far from God, even though Jesus—God Himself—stood right before them. This distance is evident in their approach to Jesus with questions meant to trap Him.A Question That Silenced the Religious LeadersThroughout Holy Week, Jesus faced continual challenges from His enemies. After answering their questions perfectly, Jesus turns the tables. He asks them: "What do you think about the Messiah? Whose son is he?"They quickly answered "Son of David," as any Jewish person would. This wasn't wrong - Matthew's gospel begins by identifying Jesus as "the Son of David, the son of Abraham" to connect Him to messianic prophecy.But Jesus pushes deeper: "How is it then that David, inspired by the Spirit, calls him Lord?" quoting Psalm 110:1. Jesus points out a paradox they couldn't resolve: Why would David call his own descendant "Lord"?The Pharisees had no answer. They couldn't reconcile how the Messiah could be both David's son (his descendant) and David's Lord (his superior).The Big Problem Behind Our Small ProblemsThe Pharisees missed something crucial: They thought the Messiah would be merely a national leader who would free them from Rome. They saw their biggest problem as Roman occupation.But Jesus reveals that the Messiah's role is much bigger—universal, not just national. Their actual problem wasn't Rome but sin and death. This required a Messiah greater than they imagined—not just the Son of David but the Son of God.When God appears bigger to us, our problems don't necessarily get smaller. Instead, we realize that our true problem—sin and death—is actually much larger than our daily concerns. But this realization gives us peace because we have a Savior big enough to handle our greatest problem.The Waves of Sin and DeathThink about surfing again. From the beach, waves might look manageable. But as you paddle out and get closer, you realize their true size and power. The closer Jesus got to the cross, the more real His suffering became. In the Garden of Gethsemane, He sweat drops of blood as the "wave" of our sin loomed before Him.Yet Jesus paddled toward that wave willingly, holding nothing back. The crushing weight of sin and death—our biggest problem—overwhelmed Him completely. But three days later, He rose from the dead, defeating what was previously undefeatable.If Jesus conquered sin and death—our greatest problem—then why do we let smaller problems defeat us? When we see God as truly big, we recognize how holy He is and how sinful we are. But we also see that if Christ defeated our biggest problem, then no matter how overwhelming our daily challenges seem, they're nothing compared to what Jesus has already overcome for us.Living in Light of the ResurrectionThis perspective change comes from spending time with God—praying, reading Scripture, attending church, and surrounding yourself with believers. Don't let small problems consume you when your biggest problem has already been solved.What scares you about your problems? Maybe it's taxes, and you worry: "What if they take all my money?" But dig deeper, and the fear is really: "What if I'm not going to be all right?" which ultimately points to fear of death.Or with relationships: when someone breaks up with you, what you feel isn't just rejection—it's as if you're going to die. These "small" problems mask our ultimate fear of sin and death.But once you realize Jesus has taken care of sin and death, you can face any challenge with confidence. If Christ is with you through your problems, and He has already handled your biggest problem, then you can handle whatever comes your way.After the Amen: ApplicationLokelani's Amen: We often worry about the wrong things—small problems instead of the big one. What's freeing is living in confidence knowing that the answer to my biggest problem is settled. Why am I consumed by smaller worries when Jesus has already answered my greatest need?Alex's Amen: My small problem that feels big is fear that people will discover "I'm not that awesome" and leave me. This fear is really about sin winning in my life. But sin won't win—it's already been defeated. And I'll never be alone because the One who loves me most will never leave or forsake me.That's how the gospel changes everything in our lives. We make small problems the big problem when they're not. But Christ is bigger than we think, and our biggest problem has already been answered.Do you want to be encouraged throughout your week? Subscribe to Amen Podcast on Substack, YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @amenepodcast and visit amenepodcast.com to support our ministry.Until next time, go out and be the church! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amenpodcast.substack.com

Welcome to the Amen Podcast, where we believe that the gospel changes everything. Today's message explores Matthew 22:41-46, where Jesus challenges the Pharisees with a profound question about his identity.Scripture Reading: Matthew 22:41-46Now, while the Pharisees were gathered together, Jesus, asked them a question, saying, "What do you think about the Christ? Whose son is he?" They said to him, "The Son of David." He said to them, "How is it then, that David in the spirit calls him Lord, saying, 'The Lord said to my Lord, sit at my right hand until I put your enemies under your feet?' If then David calls him Lord, how is he his son?" And no one was able to answer him a word, nor from that day did anyone dare to ask him any more questions.The Big Revelation: Jesus is More Than You ThinkI was watching surfing with my son Leon recently. He had a sudden interest in it, partly because he wanted to connect with something I enjoy, but also because he's spent enough time in the water himself to understand the scale of those waves.When you don't surf or go to the ocean much, every wave looks the same. It all blends together - same guy, same wave, over and over. But the closer you get to surfing, the bigger the experience becomes.It's the same with the Lord. The closer you get to God, the bigger He gets to you.The Pharisees were far from God, even though Jesus—God Himself—stood right before them. This distance is evident in their approach to Jesus with questions meant to trap Him.A Question That Silenced the Religious LeadersThroughout Holy Week, Jesus faced continual challenges from His enemies. After answering their questions perfectly, Jesus turns the tables. He asks them: "What do you think about the Messiah? Whose son is he?"They quickly answered "Son of David," as any Jewish person would. This wasn't wrong - Matthew's gospel begins by identifying Jesus as "the Son of David, the son of Abraham" to connect Him to messianic prophecy.But Jesus pushes deeper: "How is it then that David, inspired by the Spirit, calls him Lord?" quoting Psalm 110:1. Jesus points out a paradox they couldn't resolve: Why would David call his own descendant "Lord"?The Pharisees had no answer. They couldn't reconcile how the Messiah could be both David's son (his descendant) and David's Lord (his superior).The Big Problem Behind Our Small ProblemsThe Pharisees missed something crucial: They thought the Messiah would be merely a national leader who would free them from Rome. They saw their biggest problem as Roman occupation.But Jesus reveals that the Messiah's role is much bigger—universal, not just national. Their actual problem wasn't Rome but sin and death. This required a Messiah greater than they imagined—not just the Son of David but the Son of God.When God appears bigger to us, our problems don't necessarily get smaller. Instead, we realize that our true problem—sin and death—is actually much larger than our daily concerns. But this realization gives us peace because we have a Savior big enough to handle our greatest problem.The Waves of Sin and DeathThink about surfing again. From the beach, waves might look manageable. But as you paddle out and get closer, you realize their true size and power. The closer Jesus got to the cross, the more real His suffering became. In the Garden of Gethsemane, He sweat drops of blood as the "wave" of our sin loomed before Him.Yet Jesus paddled toward that wave willingly, holding nothing back. The crushing weight of sin and death—our biggest problem—overwhelmed Him completely. But three days later, He rose from the dead, defeating what was previously undefeatable.If Jesus conquered sin and death—our greatest problem—then why do we let smaller problems defeat us? When we see God as truly big, we recognize how holy He is and how sinful we are. But we also see that if Christ defeated our biggest problem, then no matter how overwhelming our daily challenges seem, they're nothing compared to what Jesus has already overcome for us.Living in Light of the ResurrectionThis perspective change comes from spending time with God—praying, reading Scripture, attending church, and surrounding yourself with believers. Don't let small problems consume you when your biggest problem has already been solved.What scares you about your problems? Maybe it's taxes, and you worry: "What if they take all my money?" But dig deeper, and the fear is really: "What if I'm not going to be all right?" which ultimately points to fear of death.Or with relationships: when someone breaks up with you, what you feel isn't just rejection—it's as if you're going to die. These "small" problems mask our ultimate fear of sin and death.But once you realize Jesus has taken care of sin and death, you can face any challenge with confidence. If Christ is with you through your problems, and He has already handled your biggest problem, then you can handle whatever comes your way.After the Amen: ApplicationLokelani's Amen: We often worry about the wrong things—small problems instead of the big one. What's freeing is living in confidence knowing that the answer to my biggest problem is settled. Why am I consumed by smaller worries when Jesus has already answered my greatest need?Alex's Amen: My small problem that feels big is fear that people will discover "I'm not that awesome" and leave me. This fear is really about sin winning in my life. But sin won't win—it's already been defeated. And I'll never be alone because the One who loves me most will never leave or forsake me.That's how the gospel changes everything in our lives. We make small problems the big problem when they're not. But Christ is bigger than we think, and our biggest problem has already been answered.Do you want to be encouraged throughout your week? Subscribe to Amen Podcast on Substack, YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Follow us on Instagram @amenepodcast and visit amenepodcast.com to support our ministry.Until next time, go out and be the church! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amenpodcast.substack.com

In a place like the South Bay, it's not difficult for us to see the ugliness of self-righteous religion. And though it may come as a surprise to some, Jesus actually beat us to the punch by about 2,000 years in his critique of self-righteous and self-serving religious practice. Yet Jesus' critique goes deeper, showing us that unless we really understand the problem of self-righteousness and intentionally replace it with something categorically different, we will be in danger of doing the very thing that we rightly find so ugly. So what is the alternative on offer in life with Jesus? And how does it actually play out in day-to-day South Bay life? Join us as we continue our Sermon On The Mount series with a teaching from Matthew 6:1-18, learning together to follow Jesus in losing our (self-righteous) religion.

THE DEVIL'S PLAN FOR WWIII • The Todd Coconato Show Website: www.PastorTodd.org To give: www.toddcoconato.com/give The Enemy Seeks War  We are in a spiritual battle. The drumbeats of war grow louder, and the enemy of our souls desires nothing more than destruction, bloodshed, and death. But as believers, we must recognize the true battle is not of flesh and blood—it is spiritual.  Satan has always sought to bring death, while God is the author of life and peace. Today, let us look at the contrast between the enemy's agenda of destruction and God's call to peace. 1. The Enemy's Desire for Death Satan's strategy has always been to kill, steal, and destroy. Jesus makes this clear in John 10:10: John 10:10 (NKJV) “The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” From the very beginning, Satan has sought to bring death. In the Garden of Eden, he deceived Eve, leading to sin and the entrance of death into the world (Genesis 3). When Cain murdered Abel, it was the enemy stirring up jealousy and rage (Genesis 4). Throughout history, Satan has worked to destroy nations, stir up conflict, and lead people into war and bloodshed. 2. Satan Wanted Mass Death in the Days of Moses and Jesus Satan has targeted entire generations for destruction. When Moses was born, Pharaoh, under satanic influence, ordered the murder of every Hebrew baby boy to prevent deliverance. Exodus 1:22 (NKJV) “So Pharaoh commanded all his people, saying, ‘Every son who is born you shall cast into the river, and every daughter you shall save alive.'” Similarly, when Jesus was born, Herod, acting as a puppet of the enemy, sought to kill Him by ordering the massacre of innocent children. Matthew 2:16 (NKJV) “Then Herod, when he saw that he was deceived by the wise men, was exceedingly angry; and he sent forth and put to death all the male children who were in Bethlehem and in all its districts, from two years old and under, according to the time which he had determined from the wise men.” In both instances, Satan tried to destroy deliverers before they could fulfill God's plan. And today, the enemy still stirs nations to war, seeking to destroy millions before they can find salvation. 3. The Enemy Seeks to Stir Up War, But God Calls for Peace As tensions rise in the world, we must recognize the spiritual battle at play. The enemy seeks to manipulate leaders into conflict, pushing nations toward devastation. Yet Jesus calls His followers to a different path: Matthew 5:9 (NKJV) “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.” God does not delight in war and destruction. He desires for His people to be agents of peace, speaking truth and interceding for the nations. He warns against unjust violence and reminds us of His power over the plans of the wicked. Psalm 46:9 (NKJV) “He makes wars cease to the end of the earth; He breaks the bow and cuts the spear in two; He burns the chariot in the fire.” 4. The Ultimate War Is Spiritual While earthly conflicts rage, the real war is spiritual. The Apostle Paul reminds us that our true battle is not against flesh and blood: Ephesians 6:12 (NKJV) “For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.” Satan wants us distracted by physical wars so that we do not see the spiritual battle. He wants to fill the earth with death, but God has given us weapons of warfare that are mighty through Him. Our battle is won through prayer, fasting, and standing firm in God's truth. 5. God's Desire for Life and Redemption Despite the enemy's schemes, God is sovereign. His heart is always to save and redeem, not to destroy. 2 Peter 3:9 (NKJV) “The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.” Though war may seem inevitable in the eyes of the world, we as believers must not fall into despair or hatred. Instead, we must pray for leaders to seek wisdom, for people to turn to Jesus, and for God's peace to reign. Stand for Peace, Stand in Prayer ✅ The enemy wants war, but God calls for peace. Satan wants death, but Jesus offers life. The world is being pushed toward destruction, but as believers, we must stand in the gap, intercede, and declare God's will over the nations.  Let us pray and declare God's peace over our world. Amen.      

Jesus doesn't leave you on your own when times get tough. He provides you with Himself and His powerful promises. The disciples were in the greatest storm they'd ever experienced. Jesus had just told them He was leaving and they couldn't follow Him now. Soon they would see their Lord betrayed, arrested, tried and crucified. Yet Jesus knew that because they were connected to Him, they could live with confidence. “For all the promises of God find their Yes in him.” (2 Corinthians 1:20) Take-Home Message: My confidence is built by clinging to Jesus.  The Promise of Knowing God (7-11). To know God, know Jesus. The Promise of Answered Prayer (12-14). To receive from God, ask Jesus. Praying in Jesus' name means…Praying in the authority of JesusPraying in the character of Jesus.Praying in the will of Jesus.The Promise of the Holy Spirit (15-17). To Live in God's power, Obey Jesus. Message: Confidence for Troubled Hearts Scripture: John 14:7-17 Simple. Authentic. Jesus. Prairiebble.org

Jesus knew what it meant to be troubled. He was troubled when his friend Lazarus died (Jn. 11:33). He was troubled when he considered the cross (Jn. 12:27). He was troubled when he thought of Judas' betrayal (Jn. 13:21). He told his followers, “In this world you will have trouble.” He knew that we too would face seasons of emotional distress. Yet Jesus also provided the solution: Himself. He said, “But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (Jn. 16:33) Take-Home Message: My troubled heart will not rest until I rest in Jesus. Jesus provides empathy for my troubled heart (1). Jesus provides security for my troubled heart (2-3). Jesus provides the security of… Eternity in Heaven (2).Adoption by the Father (2).Union with Christ (3). Jesus provides Himself for my troubled heart (4-6). Jesus Himself is… The “I AM” The Way The Truth The Life The Only Way Message: Comfort for Troubled Hearts Scripture: John 14:1-6 Simple. Authentic. Jesus. Prairiebible.org

We've completed our first week of episodes for our New Testament Challenge, and we're taking a close look at the texts.Heaven had been a place of absolute safety for Jesus. But then He became a defenseless little baby. Yet Jesus is the defining mark of all history. He is the hope of the oppressed. He sparked the greatest revolution ever begun. He offers the greatest gift ever given.It's time to let go, open the door, and let God love. Letting go unleashes the power of God in your life.

weFrom Pain To Purpose #RTTBROS #Nightlight In John chapter 4, we encounter one of the most profound examples of evangelism in Scripture – Jesus' meeting with the Samaritan woman at the well. This divine appointment reminds us that the most significant aspect of our existence is whether we have encountered Jesus Christ and what we do with that encounter. The text tells us that Jesus "must needs go through Samaria," indicating this was no chance meeting but a deliberately orchestrated moment by God Himself. The narrative reveals Jesus' masterful approach to evangelism. Rather than beginning with condemnation, He initiates a conversation about something as simple as water. This teaches us that meaningful spiritual conversations often begin with genuine human connection. Jesus demonstrates that we must be willing to cross social, cultural, and religious boundaries to reach others with the Gospel, just as He – a Jewish man – spoke with a Samaritan woman, breaking multiple cultural taboos of His time. The woman's life story is marked by rejection and pain, having had five husbands and currently living with a man who wasn't her husband. Yet Jesus doesn't approach her with judgment but with grace and truth. As the sermon points out, this woman likely wasn't living a life of wanton abandon but rather had experienced repeated rejection and abandonment by the men in her life. Jesus saw beyond her circumstances to her deep spiritual need, teaching us that every broken life story can become a testimony of God's redemptive power. Scripture tells us in Romans 8:28, "And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose." Our pain points, our struggles, and even our failures can become bridges of ministry to others who are experiencing similar trials. Just as those with physical ailments can relate to others with the same condition, our spiritual and emotional wounds can create pathways of ministry and understanding. The sermon emphasizes that salvation doesn't happen by osmosis – we must open our mouths and speak. As it is written in Romans 10:14, "How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard?" Each believer is called to be an evangelist, sharing their faith with those around them. We cannot delegate this responsibility solely to church leadership; it is a calling for every Christian. Jesus teaches us that true worship must be "in spirit and in truth" (John 4:24). This reminds us that religion without relationship is empty. We can attend church regularly, read our Bibles daily, and still miss the transformative power of a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. The sermon powerfully emphasizes that what matters is not how many hours we've logged in church, but whether we have had that definitive moment of yielding our lives to Christ. When discussing salvation, Jesus didn't allow Himself to be sidetracked by theological debates about worship locations or religious traditions. Similarly, we must learn to keep our evangelistic conversations focused on the central issue – a person's relationship with Jesus Christ. While other questions and discussions may be important, they should never overshadow the primary message of salvation through Christ alone. The sermon reminds us that God often creates divine appointments – moments when He specifically places us in someone's path to share the Gospel. Just as Jesus met the woman at the well at noon, when she would be alone and more receptive to conversation, God orchestrates opportunities for us to share our faith. The question is whether we will be obedient to these divine promptings or let fear of rejection hold us back. One powerful point made in the sermon is that we must go where the lost are. Just as Jesus went to Samaria, and just as the preacher went to the bar to reach Phil Robertson (of Duck Dynasty fame)

Week 1: "Come With!" (Luke 5:1-11) In this sermon, we'll explore Jesus's call to his first disciples. As Peter, Andrew, James, and John dropped their nets to follow him, their relationship with Jesus deepened. But this wasn't an easy path. Peter's initial excitement turned to fear as he cried, “Away from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man!” Yet Jesus reassured him, saying, “Don't be afraid.” Similarly, we may feel unworthy when we first encounter Jesus, but his call reminds us to trust him and embrace the journey.

Seeker In The Shadows JOHN 3 #RTTBROS #nightlight A Seeker in the Shadows: Meeting Jesus in the Night "The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him." - John 3:2 KJV In the stillness of night, when the world grows quiet and our hearts are most vulnerable, sometimes we find ourselves seeking answers to life's deepest questions. Such was the case with Nicodemus, a learned man of the Pharisees, who chose the cover of darkness to approach Jesus with his burning questions. Like Nicodemus, many of us approach God with our intellect first. We try to understand the divine through the lens of human wisdom, attempting to grasp the infinite with our finite minds. Yet Jesus's response to this respected religious leader was not a theological discourse but a profound truth that transcended human understanding: "Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God" (John 3:3 KJV). This encounter teaches us several vital truths about our relationship with God: First, God meets us where we are. Whether we come in broad daylight like the Samaritan woman at the well, or in the shadows like Nicodemus, God welcomes sincere seekers. Our timing and circumstances don't diminish His willingness to engage with us. Second, human wisdom alone cannot grasp divine truth. Nicodemus, despite his extensive religious education, struggled to understand the concept of being born again. Sometimes our greatest obstacle to experiencing God's truth is our attempt to fully comprehend it with our limited understanding. Third, salvation is not about intellectual assent or religious performance. Jesus made it clear that entering God's kingdom requires a supernatural transformation - being born of water and of the Spirit. This new birth is not achieved through human effort but received through faith in Christ's finished work on the cross. Just as Moses lifted up the bronze serpent in the wilderness for the healing of God's people, Jesus was lifted up on the cross for our salvation. The simplicity of "look and live" remains God's method of salvation - not through complex theological understanding or religious ritual, but through simple faith in Christ's sacrifice. The beautiful truth is that salvation is available to all who believe, regardless of their background, intelligence, or social status. As Jesus declared, "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life" (John 3:16 KJV). Reflection Questions: 1. Like Nicodemus, what questions or doubts might be holding you back from fully embracing God's truth? 2. Are you trying to understand God's ways through human wisdom alone? How might you need to surrender your understanding to embrace His truth? 3. Have you experienced the new birth Jesus spoke of? If not, what's preventing you from taking that step of faith? Prayer: Heavenly Father, like Nicodemus, we often come to You with our questions and uncertainties. Help us to trust You even when we don't fully understand Your ways. Thank You for making salvation so simple that anyone can receive it through faith in Your Son. May we never let our human wisdom become a barrier to experiencing Your divine truth. In Jesus's name, Amen.

People wear uniforms for a variety of reasons; identity, sense of belonging, and professionalism. For example when you see a person in a small white truck, blue pants and jacket roll through the neighborhood, you know your mail or package is about to be delivered. What is the uniform of a citizen of the Kingdom of Heaven? In the Beatitudes, Jesus welcomed in rag tag bunch of nobodies into God's Kingdom. The truth is they weren't much to look at...they were a pathetic, powerless bunch. Yet Jesus invites them into the Kingdom and in Matthew 5:13-16 he describes what their uniform looks like: Salt & Light.  What is Jesus even talking about? More importantly, how are we supposed to "wear that uniform" in our world today? To learn more about what Jesus is describing in this section of The Sermon on the Mount, give a listen to part two of The Sermon on the Mount.

In Luke 11:37-54, we are going to watch Jesus as He goes to lunch with a group of Pharisees. Have you ever been invited to a lunch where you know you are going to get raked over the coals? Yet Jesus accepted the invitation despite the possibility of a clash. We are talking in this episode about legalism. Legalism is any fear-driven attempt to please God. The emphasis is on human effort to get salvation. We will examine both legalism and lawlessness as we watch Jesus deal with these religious leaders.  To purchase Pastor Steve's newest book Understanding Romans: Life-Changing Lessons from Paul's Greatest Letter, visit Amazon.  Also check out our website at lifelessonspublishing.com for additional resources for pastors and leaders. We have free recorded classes and other materials offered at no charge.  And check us out on Instagram as well!  

“Then Jesus told her, ‘I am the Messiah!’” (John 4:26 NLT) As word of Jesus’ miracle-working powers spread, more and more people flocked to see Him. And when they heard His message, they asked to be baptized. Before long, Jesus’ disciples were baptizing more people than even John the Baptist himself. That level of popularity attracted the attention of the Jewish religious leaders. They started to feel threatened by Jesus’ increasing influence. Instead of giving them a chance to scrutinize Him, Jesus returned to His home region of Galilee. And the route He took surely raised some eyebrows. The quickest route from Jerusalem to Galilee led through Samaria. However, most Jewish travelers preferred to take a longer detour to the east to avoid the region. That’s how much they hated Samaritans. Samaritans were of mixed ethnicity. Most Jewish people regarded them as half-breeds. Their religious practices combined Judaism with pagan elements, which caused their Jewish neighbors to hate them even more. Centuries of bad blood had created a deep animosity between Jews and Samaritans. Jesus took the path straight through Samaria. And He stopped at a well near the town of Sychar. While His disciples went into town to buy food, Jesus rested near the well. Around noon, a Samaritan woman approached the well to draw water. Jesus asked her for a drink. The woman was stunned because there were several invisible, but very real, social barriers between Jesus and her. One, Jews didn’t talk to Samaritans. Two, men didn’t talk to women privately. And three, few people talked to a woman with her reputation. She had been married five times and was living with a man who was not her husband. Yet Jesus refused to allow these artificial boundaries to prevent Him from making a personal connection and sharing His Good News. The woman pointed out that, like the Jews, the Samaritans were waiting for the Messiah, God’s chosen Redeemer. “I am the Messiah!” Jesus revealed. The takeaway here is obvious. Our culture urges us to focus on the differences that divide us. Conservative vs. liberal. Men vs. women. Young vs. old. Christian vs. non-Christian. Jesus urges us to focus on the things that unite us. The need for compassion, love, understanding, peace of mind, and assurance about our future. The desire to be known, to have a purpose, to find fulfillment and joy, and to be a part of something bigger than ourselves. The woman told other Samaritans about her encounter with Jesus, and they believed in Him too. So we see that when one person is willing to cross social barriers, the impact can be enormous. Word of Jesus’ coming arrived in Galilee before He did. The people there welcomed Him because they’d seen what He did in Jerusalem during the Passover celebration. In Cana, the site of His first public miracle, He got an urgent request from a government official whose son was on his deathbed. In this passage, we see why Jesus initially hesitated when His mother asked Him to intervene when the wine ran out at the wedding feast. Jesus recognized that the spectacle of His miracle-working would overshadow His message. That’s why He asked, “Will you never believe in me unless you see miraculous signs and wonders?” (verse 48 NLT). The key to Jesus’ encounter with the government official is that the man believed what Jesus said. In this case, his son was healed. Not every prayer is answered that way. Not everyone recovers from sickness. But everyone who believes what Jesus says will find grace, forgiveness, comfort, strength, direction, endurance, and wisdom. — Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dave Brisbin 1.5.25 An angel was walking down the street carrying a torch and a pail of water. When asked what he was going to do with torch and pail, the angel said that with the torch he was burning down the mansions of heaven, and with the pail, putting out the fires of hell. Because only then would we see who truly loves God. With no promise of reward or fear of punishment, what is the temperature of our love when there is nothing “in it” for us—no consequence for not engaging. Everything in us rebels at this. We're offended if there's no reward for hard work. Yet Jesus tells us that no matter when we show up, we're all paid the same at the end of the day—love is its own reward. We're offended if there's no punishment for failure, yet Jesus says that sun and rain fall on the just and unjust alike—love can never be other than what it is. We have to scale the wall of reward and punishment before we can ever hope to experience love without degree. Jesus relentlessly works to tear down this wall, knowing how deeply life has embedded it while giving no experience of something as alien as degreeless love. When I stopped practicing Catholicism, my horrified mother told me it wasn't enough to be a good person, implying that without conforming to correct doctrine and practice, punishment would be my only reward. Yet for Jesus, all law and scripture is summed by loving God and neighbor. His last commandment was to love as he loved, that his followers would be defined by love—not what we rationally understand, irrationally believe, or ritually practice. The only purpose of religious belief and practice is to guide us to the experience of degreeless love. If it does, it's true. If not, it's irrelevant at best. Life is so uncertain and humans so fragile, we crave certainty as medication, and the paradigm of reward and punishment at least gives some illusion of control. That performing as we imagine God wills, binds God contractually to love and acceptance. But even the slightest vestige of meritocracy blinds us to the possibility of a love that can't be withheld or altered, keeping us forever striving for what we already possess.

Dave Brisbin 1.5.25 An angel was walking down the street carrying a torch and a pail of water. When asked what he was going to do with torch and pail, the angel said that with the torch he was burning down the mansions of heaven, and with the pail, putting out the fires of hell. Because only then would we see who truly loves God. With no promise of reward or fear of punishment, what is the temperature of our love when there is nothing “in it” for us—no consequence for not engaging. Everything in us rebels at this. We're offended if there's no reward for hard work. Yet Jesus tells us that no matter when we show up, we're all paid the same at the end of the day—love is its own reward. We're offended if there's no punishment for failure, yet Jesus says that sun and rain fall on the just and unjust alike—love can never be other than what it is. We have to scale the wall of reward and punishment before we can ever hope to experience love without degree. Jesus relentlessly works to tear down this wall, knowing how deeply life has embedded it while giving no experience of something as alien as degreeless love. When I stopped practicing Catholicism, my horrified mother told me it wasn't enough to be a good person, implying that without conforming to correct doctrine and practice, punishment would be my only reward. Yet for Jesus, all law and scripture is summed by loving God and neighbor. His last commandment was to love as he loved, that his followers would be defined by love—not what we rationally understand, irrationally believe, or ritually practice. The only purpose of religious belief and practice is to guide us to the experience of degreeless love. If it does, it's true. If not, it's irrelevant at best. Life is so uncertain and humans so fragile, we crave certainty as medication, and the paradigm of reward and punishment at least gives some illusion of control. That performing as we imagine God wills, binds God contractually to love and acceptance. But even the slightest vestige of meritocracy blinds us to the possibility of a love that can't be withheld or altered, keeping us forever striving for what we already possess.

Jesus has great compassion for everyone. Especially for those society considers unlovable or worth nothing.One day he stopped by a well and had a conversation with a woman who had been married five times. When He spoke to her, He knew she was now living with another man. Yet Jesus spoke to her in a way that let her know He valued her as a person.He told her that people could drink the water from that well, but again they would eventually be thirsty. He said to her that the water He gives is a spring welling up inside them, pointing to eternal life.John 7:38 says, “Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.”Do you believe that? Have you had your encounter with Jesus? If you're thirsty for a new life, reach out to Him and listen to what Jesus has to say. He will meet you right where you are.Your life will no longer be dry and lifeless. New life will flow out of you so that others will notice and want what you have!Let's pray.Lord, much of what the world offers doesn't satisfy us. We need the living water only you can provide. In Jesus' name, amen.Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

Click here for the DRB Daily Sign Up form! TODAY'S SCRIPTURE:John 15-18 Click HERE to give! Get Free App Here! One Year Bible Podcast: Join Hunter and Heather Barnes on 'The Daily Radio Bible' for a daily 20-minute spiritual journey. Engage with scripture readings, heartfelt devotionals, and collective prayers that draw you into the heart of God's love. Embark on this year-long voyage through the Bible, and let each day's passage uplift and inspire you. TODAY'S EPISODE: Welcome, dear friends, to the Daily Radio Bible. Today is December 23rd, and we're on day 358 of our journey through the scriptures. I'm Hunter, your brother and Bible reading coach, here to guide you as we read through the entire Bible, covering the Old Testament once and the New Testament twice. But more than just reading, our deep desire is to experience the transformative love and presence of God, fully revealed in Jesus Christ. In today's episode, we'll dive into the Gospel of John, chapters 15 through 18. We'll explore Jesus' profound teachings about the vine and the branches, his relationship with the Father, and his prayers for his disciples. We'll witness the poignant moments leading up to his arrest and Peter's denial, and conclude with Jesus' trial before Pilate. Through these scriptures and our time in prayer, we seek not just understanding, but the peace and strength to walk with Him through all of life's trials. Join us as we immerse ourselves in God's Word. Let's embark on this sacred journey together. TODAY'S DEVOTION: Here in John 16, we see Jesus trying to describe his relationship with the father. He's preparing his disciples for what's about to happen. He's trying to describe all of this to them, and they're struggling to understand. And finally, it seems like they just decide to fake it and say, well, yes, Lord. We finally understand. Finally, you're speaking plainly and not figuratively. We get it. I can't help but think that Jesus knew that they did not understand. In fact, in verse 31 and 32, he asked them somewhat incredulously, do you really believe that the time is coming, indeed it's here now, when you'll be scattered each one going his own way leaving me alone? I mean, if they really understood, would they do that? Yet Jesus says I'm not alone because the father is with me. It seems that Jesus is calling them out a bit ever so gently. I think he's saying no no no. You really don't believe. If you truly believed, you wouldn't desert me, and that's exactly what's about to happen. You're going to leave, but I won't be alone. This is all very necessary, and then he tells them what a heart looks like that truly believes in him. Verse 33 I've told you all this so that you may have peace in me here on earth. You'll have many trials and sorrows, but take heart because I have overcome the world. We are going to have troubles in this world. If anything, the last 2 years has given us is clarity on this point. That is a reality. We will have troubles in this world. Sometimes there is a pandemic. But take heart, Jesus says. Have courage, he says. I've overcome the world. I think Jesus is saying that if we truly believe, we won't run and hide. Instead, we'll recognize that he's with us, and he has the power to overcome and see us through all the troubles that we experience in this life. Life will not be void of troubles, but he will be there. So let me ask you, and I'll ask myself, do we really believe, or are we running and hiding? Have we learned to receive the word that says, take heart. I have overcome the world. You don't need to flee if you believe that I'm with you. So walk with me in and through all of your troubles. I'm with you. Have faith in that. Walk with him through that. Walking with him is what we are all called to do, and by faith, that is what we will do. That's the prayer that I have for my own heart, for my own soul. And that's the prayer that I have for my family, for my wife, my daughters, and my son. And that's the prayer that I have for you. May it be so. TODAY'S PRAYERS: Lord God Almighty and everlasting father you have brought us in safety to this new day preserve us with your Mighty power that we might not fall into sin or be overcome by adversity. And in all we do, direct us to the fulfilling of your purpose  through Jesus Christ Our Lord amen.   Oh God you have made of one blood all the peoples of the earth and sent your blessed son to preach peace to those who are far and those who are near. Grant that people everywhere may seek after you, and find you. Bring the nations into your fold, pour out your Spirit on all flesh, and hasten the coming of your kingdom through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.   And now Lord,  make me an instrument of your peace.  Where there is hatred let me sow love. Where there is injury, pardon.  Where there is doubt, faith. Where there is despair, hope.  Where there is darkness, light.  And where there is sadness,  Joy.  Oh Lord grant that I might not seek to be consoled as to console. To be understood as to understand, to be loved as to love.  For it is in the giving that we receive, in the pardoning that we are pardoned, it is in the dying that we are born unto eternal life.  Amen And now as our Lord has taught us we are bold to pray... Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our tresspasses as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not unto temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the Kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. Loving God, we give you thanks for restoring us in your image. And nourishing us with spiritual food, now send us forth as forgiven people, healed and renewed, that we may proclaim your love to the world, and continue in the risen life of Christ.  Amen.  OUR WEBSITE: www.dailyradiobible.com We are reading through the New Living Translation.   Leave us a voicemail HERE: https://www.speakpipe.com/dailyradiobible Subscribe to us at YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Dailyradiobible/featured OTHER PODCASTS: Listen with Apple Podcast DAILY BIBLE FOR KIDS DAILY PSALMS DAILY PROVERBS DAILY LECTIONARY DAILY CHRONOLOGICAL  

About This SeriesMany people in first-century Israel had expectations that the Promised One would be a conquering king, a strict enforcer, or a political liberator. But Jesus shattered these assumptions, revealing Himself as a humble servant, a compassionate healer, and a friend to the outcast. Two thousand years later, many people still misunderstand who Jesus truly is. This Christmas, we'll explore common misconceptions about the Messiah and uncover the powerful truths of His mission, offering a fresh perspective on the Savior who defied expectations and changed the world.This Week's EpisodeSome expected the Messiah to be a wealthy, powerful ruler who would live in splendor. Yet Jesus was born in a humble stable, lived a life of poverty, and taught that true greatness comes through serving others. And for his people following his example, serving is more than something we're told to do; it's who we're called to be.Ready For More?Check out firstchristian.com to find opportunities to connect and grow.We'd love to see you this coming Sunday on-campus or streaming online at 9 and 11am.Follow @fcccanton on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to stay connected!Support the show

Rev. Nicole Unice invites us into the journey of the Magi as they ask the question, “Where is He?” in their search for the newborn King. In this powerful Advent message, Nicole reminds us that our own journeys are filled with questions—where is God in our mess, doubts, or disappointments? Yet Jesus, born into the brokenness of the world, is not distant but present, standing and knocking, inviting us into a deeper relationship with Him. As we refocus our hearts on worship, we rediscover the truth: Jesus is our Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, and ever-present Savior, walking with us every step of the way.

About This SeriesMany people in first-century Israel had expectations that the Promised One would be a conquering king, a strict enforcer, or a political liberator. But Jesus shattered these assumptions, revealing Himself as a humble servant, a compassionate healer, and a friend to the outcast. Two thousand years later, many people still misunderstand who Jesus truly is. This Christmas, we'll explore common misconceptions about the Messiah and uncover the powerful truths of His mission, offering a fresh perspective on the Savior who defied expectations and changed the world.This Week's EpisodeMany expected the Messiah to be a political leader or warrior who would overthrow Roman rule, establish an earthly kingdom and restore Israel to its former glory. Yet Jesus' mission was not to establish an earthly kingdom through force, but to liberate humanity from the bondage of sin and death, offering spiritual redemption and eternal life.Ready For More?Check out firstchristian.com to find opportunities to connect and grow.We'd love to see you this coming Sunday on-campus or streaming online at 9 and 11am.Follow @fcccanton on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to stay connected!Support the show

As Jesus was passing through the multitudes of people He stopped and saw Matthew the tax collector and called him and told him to follow Him. Now Matthew was considered to be a traitor to his own people at one of the most corrupt jobs a Jew could have. Yet Jesus stopped and saw him and called him. Jesus saw you and called you as well. He looked past your sin and showed you love and poured out His grace. Do you see the unbelievers around you in this way? Stop and reach out to them.

Luke 14:1-24; “Dinner Disaster” Today's story is of Jesus attending a dinner with His enemies - who have an agenda and it's not a good one. Yet Jesus has a heart even for those who oppose Him.  Jesus is invited to the house of a prominent Pharisee on a Sabbath day and they are all watching Him. There in front of Him they have placed a very sick man with a serious health condition of being severely swollen.  Keep in mind:  It's a Sabbath day Previously Jesus had done healings on the Sabbath and the synagogue leaders were extremely angry  No “work” was to be done on a Sabbath  Healings were considered “work”  Entrapment:  We can see this sick man placed in front of Jesus, is a set up for entrapment so that they could say Jesus broke the Sabbath by healing someone.  Jesus recognizes the trap and He addresses it head on saying, “Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath or not?” But they did not answer Him, so Jesus healed the man and sent him on his way. They all witnessed it.  What was that like to see the healing of this very sick man? As the swelling disappears and he goes away whole and healed. No longer critically ill. Can you imagine the murmurs and whispers of the dinner guests?  Jesus' concern and love for the lost (including the religious who in reality do not know the Living God) compels Him to take the conversation further because he loves the Pharisees and those that are hostile to Him.  So Jesus asks them, “If one of you has a child or ox that falls into a well on a Sabbath day will you not immediately pull it out?” And the Pharisees made no response.  As Jesus looks out over the table where people had worked to get the best seat reclining near the host, He continues with a parable. The summary of the parable is that you don't go to a party and take the seat of honor, as you'll just embarrass yourself. The lesson is one of humility before God and man and as Jesus continues the story He speaks these powerful words: “for all those who exalt themselves will be humbled and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”  Rebuttal:  Jesus is rebutting their arrogance, their pride, their self-aggrandizement. He's saying - when you really know the Living God it affects how you behave. Not that we are saved by our behavior - but that when we know the love of God and the forgiveness He offers in Christ Jesus, the Messiah, it changes our behavior.  When we truly understand how much God loves us and how much Jesus paid to redeem us, that news changes our attitude about ourselves and we realize we bring nothing to the heavenly party.  It's not about what I can achieve, it's about what God offers and therefore my attitude changes and how I act changes and what I think changes.  The story continues with Jesus challenging the host to not invite friends who will simply reciprocate the invitation to his next party. Rather Jesus says to invite the poor, lame, crippled, and blind and then he will be blessed. Though they can't repay him for the invitation - Jesus adds that he would be repaid at Chris's return.  Diversion:  A dinner guest attempts to change the subject, clear the air, calm the tensions and says, “Blessed is the one who will eat at the feast in the kingdom of God.” What does Jesus respond with?  With this profound story about an owner inviting many guests to his banquet. When it was time for the party he sent his servant out to let those who had been invited that it was now time to come.But all invitees had excuses. So the host ordered his servant to bring in the poor, crippled, blind and the lame and after doing so, the servant told the owner there was still room left. So the Master sends out the servant into the country roads to compel more to come so that his house would be full. Jesus ends the story with the owner saying that not one of those who were invited and changed their minds in coming would get a taste of the banquet.  Jesus is saying this is what's happened with His own people. The very one God invited rejected God and refused to accept all that He was offering through Jesus.  These people were religious but they didn't really have a heart for God. And when you reject Jesus, you reject the Father who sent Him.  This story is not just for 1st century Israel - these words are for us today. Jesus is telling us that nothing is to get in the way of our relationship with the Living God through faith in Jesus. We are not to allow anything to get in the way of God's purpose through Christ for each one of us.  There are eternal consequences to rejecting God's mercy through Jesus, but God is faithful and works to show them then and us now the consequences of rejecting Him, rejecting the open door to coming to Him, rejecting His love for each of us.  There is a forever party coming! The joy of life forever in the presence of God! We don't want to miss the heavenly banquet! Surrender to the Living God. Jesus is summoning us to Himself. He offers life to all who repent and believe. He desires all to experience the joy of daily following Him.  Check out our website – everything we offer is FREE!! 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  St. Luke's Account is part three of our Two Year Study of the Gospels. The Gospel of Luke takes a look at the life of Jesus, beginning with the well-known Christmas stories. Luke, a non-Jew, offers a unique perspective into the story of Jesus' life.  This study is great for large group, small group or home group Bible study.

“Then you will be arrested, persecuted, and killed. You will be hated all over the world because you are my followers. And many will turn away from me and betray and hate each other.” (Matthew 24:9–10 NLT) Jesus' words in Matthew 24 were in response to a question His disciples asked in verse 3: “What sign will signal your return and the end of the world?” (NLT). Think they were sorry they asked? The disciples faced intense persecution for sharing Jesus' message with the world. All but one of them, John, died a martyr's death. But the persecution didn't stop with them. And it didn't end in the first century. Some scholars estimate that more Christians were killed in the twentieth century than in all previous centuries combined. Christians have been persecuted more than any other religious group. And it's not just confined to atheistic or Islamic countries. We're starting to see more and more persecution in the United States. We see it in the woke ideology that has infiltrated our education system. We see it permeating the military. We see it being spread by the media. I describe it as an “ABC culture”: Anything But Christ. When you stand up and say, “I'm a Christian,” you can expect pushback, resistance, and even persecution. Paul said, “Everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution” (2 Timothy 3:12 NLT). That's a promise of God we rarely claim. Yet Jesus said the closer we get to the time of His coming, the more His people will be persecuted. So how should we respond? First, remember that it's not us people hate; it's Jesus. And if people see Jesus when they look at us, it means we're doing something right. Second, consider the times. Jesus said persecution will intensify as we draw closer and closer to the time of His return. If you notice an uptick in the mistreatment of believers, look up. Don't get discouraged. Remind yourself that something amazing is on the way. Our suffering is temporary; our glorious reward for faithfulness is eternal. Third, pray for believers who are facing persecution. Ask God to give them the strength and endurance to persevere. Ask Him to help persecuted Christians remain faithful in their mission and not abandon their faith. Staying strong in the midst of persecution is one of the most powerful testimonies a Christian can offer. It says to unbelievers, “Here's something worth suffering for. Here's something more important than my life.” So as persecution increases in the last days, so do the opportunities to impact other people's lives with our response. The challenge of Christians is to look beyond our own suffering and persecution to see the good that God is bringing from it in the lives of others. — Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this Bible Story, we learn about Jesus' provision over Peter's taxes. Jesus also gives a stiff warning to those who would threaten the innocence of a child. This story is inspired by Matthew 17:24-27; Mark 9:33-41 & Luke 9:49-50; 17:1-2. Go to BibleinaYear.com and learn the Bible in a Year.Today's Bible verse is Matthew 17:27 from the King James Version.Episode 198: It was tax season in Capernaum and Peter had no money to spare. Yet Jesus was not caught off guard. He cared for Peter and his family and told him where to go and what to do to find the money needed. The next evening around dinner Jesus called on His disciples asking them what they were arguing about earlier that day. Embarrassed, they sheepishly remained silent. While Jesus shared with them that if they truly want to be great, they must put the needs of others above themselves.Hear the Bible come to life as Pastor Jack Graham leads you through the official BibleinaYear.com podcast. This Biblical Audio Experience will help you master wisdom from the world's greatest book. In each episode, you will learn to apply Biblical principles to everyday life. Now understanding the Bible is easier than ever before; enjoy a cinematic audio experience full of inspirational storytelling, orchestral music, and profound commentary from world-renowned Pastor Jack Graham.Also, you can download the Pray.com app for more Christian content, including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.Visit JackGraham.org for more resources on how to tap into God's power for successful Christian living.Pray.com is the digital destination of faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store.Executive Producers: Steve Gatena & Max BardProducer: Ben GammonHosted by: Pastor Jack GrahamMusic by: Andrew Morgan SmithBible Story narration by: Todd HaberkornSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this Bible Story, Jesus defends a woman caught in adultery from being stoned to death. She is drug out into the public half naked for all to shame her. Yet Jesus stands up to the religious leaders, and proclaims that whoever was without sin could throw the first stone. Since none of them had a rebuttal for Jesus, they left, and the woman was forgiven. This story is inspired by John 7:1-8:12. Go to BibleinaYear.com and learn the Bible in a Year.Today's Bible verse is John 8:7 from the King James Version.Episode 195: The Pharisees once again trying to trap Jesus in His words bring Him a woman caught in the act of adultery. As they were trying to push Jesus into either forgiving the woman against the Law of Moses or stoning her as the Law requires, Jesus pushed them instead. He challenged them to take a look at the sin in their own lives first and the Pharisees began to leave one by one. When all who were left were Jesus and the woman, He spoke words of forgiveness and comfort, sending her on her way saying “go and sin no more.”Hear the Bible come to life as Pastor Jack Graham leads you through the official BibleinaYear.com podcast. This Biblical Audio Experience will help you master wisdom from the world's greatest book. In each episode, you will learn to apply Biblical principles to everyday life. Now understanding the Bible is easier than ever before; enjoy a cinematic audio experience full of inspirational storytelling, orchestral music, and profound commentary from world-renowned Pastor Jack Graham.Also, you can download the Pray.com app for more Christian content, including, Daily Prayers, Inspirational Testimonies, and Bedtime Bible Stories.Visit JackGraham.org for more resources on how to tap into God's power for successful Christian living.Pray.com is the digital destination of faith. With over 5,000 daily prayers, meditations, bedtime stories, and cinematic stories inspired by the Bible, the Pray.com app has everything you need to keep your focus on the Lord. Make Prayer a priority and download the #1 App for Prayer and Sleep today in the Apple app store or Google Play store.Executive Producers: Steve Gatena & Max BardProducer: Ben GammonHosted by: Pastor Jack GrahamMusic by: Andrew Morgan SmithBible Story narration by: Todd HaberkornSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.