Podcasts about Zeal

Our Senior Pastor, Miles Fidell, led us through Ephesians 3 today, reminding us of the special promises over the gathering of God's people when we come not to consume good music or a powerful message, but to be CONSUMED by His presence.

Rebellion and Zeal: Standing under Authority by Bishop Joaquin G. Molina

 Go to sermon webpage: THE SEARCH FOR SALVATION

Romans 6:15-23 confronts us with a profound truth: we will serve someone or something, whether we acknowledge it or not. This passage challenges the dangerous notion that grace gives us license to continue in sin, asking the piercing question: are we to sin because we're under grace rather than law? The answer rings clear—absolutely not. We're presented with only two masters: sin leading to death, or obedience leading to righteousness. There's no third option, no middle ground where we can blend worldly living with Christian faith. The transformation that comes through Christ isn't an addition to our existing life—it's a complete metamorphosis. We see this illustrated through the story of Elisha, who burned his oxen and plows, eliminating any possibility of retreat to his former life. Similarly, Jesus' disciples left their nets, their boats, and even their father immediately when called. This radical commitment stands in stark contrast to the lukewarm Christianity described in Revelation 3, where the church of Laodicea was neither hot nor cold, prompting Christ to say He would spit them from His mouth. The parable of the sower reminds us that only one in four who hear the word will produce lasting fruit. The question we must wrestle with is this: which soil are we? Are we clinging to escape plans and old relationships that keep us tethered to our former slavery, or are we willing to take that first step of obedience, trusting God will reveal the next?### Sermon Notes**Scripture**: Romans 6:15-23**Introduction**: - Rick, a pastor at Hope Church, continues the study of Romans, focusing on Romans 6. - Reminder that they preach through books of the Bible, emphasizing the importance of scripture-based preaching.**Key Points**:1. **Understanding Sin and Grace**:  - The question Paul raises: Are we to sin because we are under grace, not the law?  - Emphasis on morality within the law and grace.2. **Analogy of Slavery**:  - Paul uses the analogy of being slaves to sin versus slaves to righteousness.  - Bob Dylan's illustration: "You gotta serve somebody."3. **Transformation through Salvation**:  - Christianity is not just an addition but a transformation of life.  - The old self versus the new self: Embrace becoming a slave to righteousness.4. **Challenges in Christian Walk**:  - Temptation to mix worldly views and new belief systems with Christianity.  - Importance of separating from past sinful lifestyles and friendships.5. **Practical Illustrations**:  - Rick's personal testimony about radical change after accepting Christ.  - Importance of cutting off past connections that hinder spiritual growth.6. **Reasons for Struggling with Sin**:  - Continually resurrecting old sinful behaviors.  - Lack of suffering or commitment in serving God wholeheartedly.  - Not eliminating the past life entirely.7. **Biblical References to Commitment**:  - Examples of Elisha burning his plow and the disciples leaving everything to follow Jesus.  - The rich young ruler's story: Heart's attachment to possessions.8. **Fruit of Righteousness**:  - Encouragement to analyze life for spiritual fruit.  - Belonging entirely to Christ results in sanctification and eternal life.**Practical Applications**:1. **Cut Ties with Sin**:   - Identify and remove old habits and relationships that hinder spiritual growth.2. **Embrace Transformation**:   - Acknowledge that faith in Christ leads to a completely changed life, not just an addition to current beliefs.3. **Serve with Zeal**:   - Dedicate the same energy formerly given to sin towards serving God.4. **Evaluate Your Life**:   - Regularly assess if your life reflects the fruit of righteousness or if it's still tied to the old self.5. **Take Steps of Faith**:   - Listen for God's direction and take incremental steps towards fulfilling His call.**Discussion Questions**:1. How does understanding that we are under grace, not the law, change your perspective on sin and righteousness?2. What are some steps you can take to ensure you're living as a "slave to righteousness" rather than a slave to sin?3. Are there aspects of your past life that you are still holding onto, and how can you fully commit them to God?4. How has your commitment to Christ transformed your everyday life and decisions?5. Discuss a time when taking a small step of faith led to a significant spiritual victory or growth in your life.

OPINION: When zeal outruns judgment | Oct. 25, 2025Subscribe to The Manila Times Channel - https://tmt.ph/YTSubscribe Visit our website at https://www.manilatimes.net Follow us: Facebook - https://tmt.ph/facebook Instagram - https://tmt.ph/instagram Twitter - https://tmt.ph/twitter DailyMotion - https://tmt.ph/dailymotion Subscribe to our Digital Edition - https://tmt.ph/digital Check out our Podcasts: Spotify - https://tmt.ph/spotify Apple Podcasts - https://tmt.ph/applepodcasts Amazon Music - https://tmt.ph/amazonmusic Deezer: https://tmt.ph/deezer Stitcher: https://tmt.ph/stitcherTune In: https://tmt.ph/tunein#TheManilaTimes#KeepUpWithTheTimes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this solo episode, I dive into the electrifying intersection between Zeal & Ardor's genre-bending music and Frantz Fanon's revolutionary psychology of liberation.I trace the origins of Zeal & Ardor — from Manuel Gagneux's provocative “what-if” experiment blending slave spirituals and black metal — to their evolution into a powerful exploration of history, rage, and rebirth. Through Fanon's lens, this fusion becomes more than music: it's a sonic revolt, a reimagining of how trauma, faith, and resistance can transform into new cultural life.Along the way, I unpack Fanon's ideas about the “white mask,” violence as catharsis, and the creation of a new humanism, showing how Zeal & Ardor's sound captures the psychic energy of decolonization.This episode is part cultural analysis, part therapy session, and part love letter to the power of art to rework our deepest wounds.

Today on the Daily Nugget Podcast, Mike talks about Romans 12:9–13, focusing especially on the verses “Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord,” and “Honor one another above yourselves.” He shares how real transformation shows up in a believer's passion, humility, and purpose — not just in what we know, but in how we live. God calls us to a faith that's alive and energized by the Holy Spirit, not cold or routine. Mike encourages listeners to stay spiritually alert, to keep their fire for God burning even in difficult seasons, and to show genuine honor and care for others, remembering that true zeal and love flow from a heart centered on serving the Lord.

Listen as Pastor Danny preaches from Acts 20:1-12.

We're joined this week by Pastor Brad Jones for week three of our ZEAL FOR GOD'S HOUSE series — teaching from Psalm 84, he calls us to awaken our desperation for God and come before Him with hearts ready to offer EVERYTHING.

 Go to sermon webpage: THE SEARCH FOR SALVATION

We see this stone that smote the image began to establish His own Kingdom by the Zeal of the Lord, which shall never be destroyed, or passed to others.

Sunday, October 19, 2025 am

A Deep Dive into the Book of Zechariah: Understanding God's Message and Mercy Join us in this insightful evening study of the Book of Zechariah. We begin with a moment of worship by reading Psalm 1, preparing our hearts before diving into the first two chapters of Zechariah. This session provides historical context, explores the themes of God's anger towards past generations, His call for repentance, and the profound principle of returning to God. As we delve deeper into the prophetic visions given to Zechariah, we uncover the significance of God's promise to restore Jerusalem, the symbolism of various prophetic elements, and the broader eschatological implications of these prophecies. The study emphasizes the importance of contrition, the beauty of God's mercy, and the hopeful future He has planned for His people. Perfect for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of Biblical prophecies and the character of God. 00:00 Introduction and Opening Remarks 00:38 Reading and Reflecting on Psalm 1 01:37 Opening Prayer 02:56 Introduction to the Book of Zechariah 04:33 Zechariah's Historical Context 06:07 The Lord's Message to Zechariah 07:28 The Importance of Returning to God 19:30 Contrition and Owning Our Mistakes 21:01 Martha Stewart and the Lesson of Ownership 23:59 The Call to Return to God 32:49 Zechariah's Prophetic Utterance 33:52 Zechariah's Reference in the Bible 35:09 Zechariah's Vision of the Horses 36:27 The Four Horsemen and Their Significance 38:15 Angelic Hosts and Their Roles 41:37 God's Zeal for Jerusalem 46:58 The Four Horns and the Craftsmen 52:39 Prophecy of the Measuring Line 01:00:06 God's Promise to Jerusalem

Exploring Zechariah: Understanding Dynamic Prayer and Hope in God - Chapters 7 & 8 In this episode, we delve into the book of Zechariah, specifically chapters 7 and 8. The session begins with a worship reading from Psalm 4, establishing a reflective and prayerful mood. The speaker discusses the historical context of Zechariah's prophecies during the reign of King Darius and the period post-Babylonian captivity. The primary focus is on understanding true and dynamic prayer, addressing common misconceptions about prayer practices and the importance of direct communication with God. The episode also emphasizes the need to shift from self-imposed mourning to embracing God's promise of joy and restoration. By comparing past disobedience and its consequences with future hopes, the session encourages believers to strengthen their faith, maintain dynamic relationships with God, and live in a state of hopeful anticipation of God's promises. 00:00 Introduction and Opening Prayer 02:46 Setting the Scene: Zechariah's Prophecies 07:02 The Importance of Direct Prayer 17:55 Understanding Fasting and Obedience 27:53 Understanding the Role of Prayer 28:56 The Importance of Obedience 29:34 The Consequences of Disobedience 30:22 The Hardness of Heart 32:29 The Positive Aspect of Flint 34:00 God's Zeal for Jerusalem 37:04 A Vision of Future Prosperity 38:39 The Call to Strength and Hope 48:53 Transforming Fasts into Feasts 51:06 A Call to Witness and Thankfulness 53:56 Concluding Prayer

In Mark 14 Peter displays zeal as a follower of Jesus, but following Jesus only gets us so far. We must remain and abide in Him. Salt Church in Wilmington, NC, led by Pastors Parker & Jessi Green, exists to know Jesus, worship Him, and do the works He did.Plan Your Visit to SALT Church:https://www.saltchurches.com/welcomeWays to Support the Ministry:Become a monthly giver https://www.saltchurches.com/givingFollow / saltchurches Subscribe @saltchurchNC Connect with Parker + Jessi Green:Instagram Parker / parkerricha. .Instagram Jessi / jessi.green Websites https://www.saltchurches.com/https://thegreens.co/#prayer #bible #biblestudy #saltchurch

In this podcast, Pastor Kim Owens from Fresh Start Church delivers a powerful word about being boiling hot with the fire of God.Support the show

This week we welcomed Pastor David Platt for week two of our ZEAL FOR GOD'S HOUSE series! He reminded us that God has placed purpose within each of us and calls us to spread His presence—not just in our church, but to the ends of the EARTH.

 Go to sermon webpage: THE SEARCH FOR SALVATION

Send us a textFairfax criminal lawyer Jonathan Katz's go-to lawyers for referrals for District of Columbia criminal defense are Michael Bruckheim and Sweta Patel at Bruckheim & Patel. Sweta and Mike regularly refer potential Virginia criminal and DWI defense clients to Jon Katz. Jon's confidence in Michael and Sweta arises from their consistently strong defense work, caring for their clients, and powerfully optimistic zeal. In this Beat the Prosecution podcast episode, you will hear Jon, Sweta and Mike talk in unvarnished terms about the strengths and weaknesses of the criminal justice system, and how to pursue criminal defendants' best defense no matter the hurdles on that path. Mike Bruckheim is our second former prosecutor guest, with previous guest Tony Serra having prosecuted for a short period before switching to criminal defense. Not all prosecutors automatically take to the transplant from prosecution to defense, but Mike has done great with that transition. The positive energy of Sweta and Mike is like a great contagion. Prosecutors, police and others in the courthouse can try all they want to beat down on criminal defense lawyers, but what matters in the end is not any bluster, but what happens on the wrestling mat of the courtroom. What this conversation boils down to is winning with powerfully optimistic zeal. This episode is on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hv-Ow12-4QsThis podcast with Fairfax, Virginia criminal / DUI lawyer Jon Katz is playable on all devices at podcast.BeatTheProsecution.com. For more information, visit https://KatzJustice.com or contact us at info@KatzJustice.com, 703-383-1100 (calling), or 571-406-7268 (text). If you like what you hear on our Beat the Prosecution podcast, please take a moment to post a review at our Apple podcasts page (with stars only, or else also with a comment) at https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beat-the-prosecution/id1721413675

Our LDP + Residency Pastor, Tyler Miller, is kicking off our brand-new series, ZEAL FOR GOD'S HOUSE, with a message that takes us from Genesis to Revelation, showing the overarching narrative of how God dwells with His people and reigns over all creation, redeeming it from beginning to end.

Endurance is not optional. Hebrews 10:32–36 calls believers to patient endurance that finishes the will of God. Using Ernest Shackleton's “Endurance” expedition and the marathon messenger Pheidippides, this message lays out four revelations that keep you moving when conditions turn brutal: Calling, Companions, Confidence (faith), and Conquest. Expect clear challenges on zeal, holiness standards, service, generosity, church planting, and mission. Finish carried over the line, not coasting.Scriptures: Heb 10:32–36; Matt 24:13–14; Phil 3:6; 2 Cor 9:2; Heb 11:1 (AMP).https://TakingTheLandPodcast.comSUBSCRIBE TO PREMIUM FOR MORE:• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe for only $3/month on Supercast⁠: https://taking-the-land.supercast.com/⁠• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe for only $3.99/month on Spotify⁠: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/taking-the-land/subscribe⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠• ⁠Subscribe for only $4.99/month on Apple Podcasts⁠: https://apple.co/3vy1s5b⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠13:32 Introduction & Text — Hebrews 10:32–3614:20 The Endurance of Ernest Shackleton16:05 By Endurance We Conquer — main theme17:10 The Honeymoon Stage of Salvation and Ministry19:45 Zeal for Salvation, Service, and Standards23:18 Lessons from Shackleton's Ordeal25:40 Marathon of Faith — the Messenger's Duty27:00 Four Revelations of Endurance27:20 1️⃣ Calling — Remember when you were illuminated30:10 2️⃣ Companions — Endurance requires fellow runners33:12 3️⃣ Confidence — Faith as decision, not feeling35:40 4️⃣ Conquest — Progress, not mere survival38:22 Endurance as a Lifestyle, Not a Season40:10 Shackleton's Return and the Knighted Endurer42:02 Men Wanted for God's Hazardous Calling44:25 The Unreached Cities and Nations in Reach46:10 Call to Dedication and Altar AppealShow NotesALL PROCEEDS GO TO WORLD EVANGELISMLocate a CFM Church near you: https://cfmmap.orgWe need five-star reviews! Tell the world what you think about this podcast at: • Apple Podcasts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://apple.co/3vy1s5b • Podchaser: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/taking-the-land-cfm-sermon-pod-43369

Psalms 68–69 | The King and the Stake | Weighty Scroll Edition | Precept upon Precept | Judgment Voice---Lesson Focus:The King rises in Psalm 68 to scatter His enemies and ascend on high.In Psalm 69 the same King descends to the stake to bear reproach and redeem those once in rebellion.Crown and Stake — glory and suffering in one scroll.Taught by: Kerry Battle — Ahava Love AssemblyReading Text: Exodus 24 / Daniel 7 / Isaiah 53 / John 19 / Ephesians 4 / Revelation 19 Theme: The Arising King and the Suffering Messiah revealed through Psalms 68 and 69.Teaching StructurePsalm 68 – The Arising King: Rise, Ascend, Thunder.Psalm 69 – The Suffering Messiah at the Stake: Sorrow, Zeal, Reproach.Final Verdict: Behind Him or beneath Him — no neutrality.Reflection Statement: “When Yahuah rises, neutrality dies. When the Messiah takes the stake, mercy speaks through judgment.”Giving Info: Zelle QR Code only – [Ahava Love Assembly | Feed the Flock]Subscribe: @ahavaloveassemblyWebsite: ahavloveministry.com#AhavaLoveAssembly #TorahTeaching #Psalms68 #Psalms69 #KingAndTheStake #Yahuah #Yahusha #TorahLiving #PreceptUponPrecept #JudgmentVoice #WeightyScroll #HebrewScripture #IsraeliteTeaching #RestorationTruth #AncientPath

In this solo episode of The Reformed Brotherhood, Jesse Schwamb explores the profound depths of Jesus' Parable of the Sower from Matthew 13. While this parable might seem unassuming compared to others, Jesse reveals how it serves as the "granddaddy" of all parables—offering a God's-eye view of salvation through the ordinary imagery of farming. The episode examines why different people respond differently to the same gospel message, and challenges listeners to consider what kind of soil their own hearts represent. Through historical context and theological reflection, Jesse unpacks how this parable prepares believers for the mixed responses they'll encounter when sharing the gospel and reminds us that the efficacy of salvation depends not on the sower's skill, but on God's sovereign work in preparing hearts to receive His Word. Key Takeaways The Parable of the Sower provides a framework for understanding the various responses to the gospel message, serving as preparation for disciples who would face both acceptance and rejection. Jesus' parables, particularly the Sower, demonstrate how God uses ordinary, mundane things to express profound spiritual truths about His kingdom. The efficacy of salvation doesn't depend on the skill of the sower but on God's sovereign work in preparing the soil of human hearts. God's Word never returns void but always comes back "full" of either acceptance or rejection—it accomplishes exactly what God intends. Historical context matters: Jesus' audience had high expectations for a Messiah who would establish an earthly kingdom, but Jesus was revealing a different kind of kingdom. The Parable of the Sower shows that the kingdom of God isn't received equally by all—some receive it with joy while others reject it outright. Having "ears to hear" is a gift from God through the Holy Spirit, not merely intellectual understanding but spiritual receptivity. The Word That Never Returns Void The power of God's Word stands at the center of the Parable of the Sower. Jesse highlights Isaiah 55, where God declares that His word "shall not return empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose." Unlike human words that often fall flat, God's Word always achieves its intended effect. This doesn't mean universal salvation, but rather that God's purposes are never thwarted. When the gospel is proclaimed, it always returns to God "full" of something—either acceptance or rejection. The parable illustrates this reality by showing the various responses to the same seed. This should encourage believers in evangelism: we are simply called to faithfully sow the seed, while God determines the harvest according to His sovereign purposes. Our success is not measured by conversions but by faithfulness in proclamation. Kingdom Expectations vs. Kingdom Reality The historical context of Jesus' ministry reveals a profound disconnect between what people expected from the Messiah and what Jesus actually delivered. Jesse explains how the Jewish people anticipated a conquering king who would overthrow Roman oppression and establish a visible earthly kingdom. Instead, Jesus announced a kingdom that begins in the heart, dividing even families according to their response to Him. The Parable of the Sower anticipates this mixed response, preparing disciples for both acceptance and rejection. This teaches modern believers an important lesson: the gospel will not be universally embraced, even when perfectly presented. Some hearts are like paths, others rocky ground, others thorny soil. Yet we continue sowing because God has appointed some to be good soil—hearts prepared by the Holy Spirit to receive the Word and bear fruit. This reality should both humble us and embolden our witness. Quotes "The power of this message is in the message itself, but the medium by which it is delivered... it does pierce the heart. It does pierce through bone and marrow. It does divide because it always returns full of either acceptance or full of rebellion and denial." - Jesse Schwamb "We find ourselves humbled. We find ourselves rushing in, coming into the kingdom, fighting to come into it because God has impassioned us with that same zeal that has accomplished this very thing. He implants it in our hearts, in our minds, in our guts, so that we would come before him and worship him." - Jesse Schwamb "Consider what it means that this good news... that God's word is his deed. This is why... it's such a blessing to live in this period of time where we have such easy access for most of us to the word of God, and that we ought to be zealous about getting that word out to all people because behind it and within it and around it is the full power of the Holy Spirit." - Jesse Schwamb Full Transcript Welcome to episode 463 of The Reformed Brotherhood. I'm Jesse, and this is the podcast for those with ears to hear. Hey, brothers and sisters, so I am just one half. Of the Reform Brotherhood squad. Tony, of course, wanted to join us on this episode, but it sometimes happens in life. Our schedules were a little bit crazy this week, and God gave us responsibilities that put us in opposite directions for part of the time. And so that means that today on this episode, I thought. You and I, we could just hang out and Tony will be back to join us in the next episode. [00:01:20] Solo Episode and Parable Series Overview But for now, this is one of those solo or formed brotherhood episodes. And if you have been tracking with us, we just started this great and amazing journey on going through all the parables that our Lord and Savior gives to us in teaching us about the kingdom of God and its power. And we just started by talking about the parable of the sower, in fact. In the last episode, we just covered basically the first two soils, the first half of that amazing little story, and I thought it would be really, really great to camp out in that for just a little bit more because even though Tony's not here, the podcast goes on and we, Tony and I never really. Thinking about these things and when we start a series in particular, we always find that we just gotta keep going back on it in our minds ruminating on what we said and what God was teaching us and the conversations like all good conversations that draw your mind back to the things that you talked about, which I should say maybe before I begin in earnest, that is also my denial, which is saying things like, let's camp out in this text now to be. Sure. There's no wrong reason why, or there's no bad reason to say words like that. It's just when I hear myself say them, I think about all the things that Christians say, like saying like, we should camp out in this text, or Let's sit in it for a while. And I think maybe it's because I'm just not into camping or maybe because I think most of the time when you use the phrase like, sit in, it's not. A happy or blessed or joyful thing that you're describing. So I always find that funny, and yet here I am saying it because I just couldn't think of anything better to say except, you know what? We should pause and maybe ruminate a little bit more. On all of this good stuff that's in Matthew chapter 13, where Jesus gives us the parable of the sower, so you can join me in sharing which little Christian phrases maybe you think you hear, we say too much or just become rote or part and parcel what it means to talk. The best way for you to do that is do me a. Go to your favorite internet device and in the browser, type T me slash reform brotherhood, that will just take you that little link to a part of the internet using an app called Telegram where a bunch of brothers and sisters who listen to the podcast are chatting about the podcast, their live sharing prayer requests, and there's even a place for you to share, Hey, what are the things that Christians say that you think. Why do we say that? Why are we always talking about hedges of protection? Why are we always talking about camping out in a text? So that's a place that you can come hang out. So go to t.me/reform brotherhood. [00:03:56] Deep Dive into the Parable of the Sower But enough of that, let's talk a little bit more about this incredible parable that our Lord and Savior gives us in Matthew chapter 13. It's so, so short in fact that I figured. The best parts of any conversation about the Bible is just hearing from God in his word. So let me read just those couple of verses. It's just eight verses beginning in Matthew chapter 13, the parable of the sower. That same day, Jesus went out from the house and sat beside the sea and great crowds gathered about him so that he got into a boat and sat down and the whole crowd stood on the beach. And he told them many things in parables saying a sower went out to sow. And as he sowed, some seeds fell along the path and the birds came and devoured them. Other seeds fell on rocky ground where they did not have much soil, and immediately they sprang up since they had no depth of soil. But when the sun rose, they were scorched. And since they had no roots, they withered away. Other seeds fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up and choked them. Other seed fell on good soil and produced grain. Some a hundred fold, some 60, some 30. He who has ears let him hear. [00:05:09] Personal Reflections on the Parable I have to say that of all the parables, and we mentioned in the previous episode that this one is kind of the granddaddy of them all. It's a god's eye view on salvation told in this lovely kind of encased way about horticulture and farming and growing plants. But to be totally transparent, I never really got into this parable. It was never really my favorite one. Like of all the things that Jesus says, of all the creative and wonderful terms of phrase, this one for me always just seemed to be lacking That stuff. You know, it doesn't have really strong characters. It's about a sower, seed and soil, and compared to some other things that seems kind of unassuming and. Not very exciting, quite honestly, to me, and it's not as exciting, I think, as stories about, I don't know, losing something of value and then suddenly finding it and rejoicing and having the characters, feeling yourself in those characters as they go about experiencing all the emotions. That Jesus expresses and keyed in these lovely little riddles called parables. And so for this one, it's always been a little bit kind of like a, okay. It's interesting and the point seems fairly straightforward and it just doesn't captivate me as the others. And I've been thinking about about that, how even in this, it just seems like a really normal, mundane, kind of pedestrian expression of a life in that time. And it's all wrapped up in gardening. And throwing seeds into the ground, not even having control of their outcome. And then in this way, though, expressing and explaining this grand narrative and arc of salvation from God's perspective. So it is, again, another lesson in God using ordinary, normal, almost seemingly mundane things to express his power, to express our lack of control and to show so that he does. Did I just say so to, so that he does all things and certainly we get so much of that in this parable, and so it made me think this week after Tony and I talked about it a little bit. Just how it raises a question in this really normative, kind of unassuming, almost boring, if I can say way, this really profound question, which is, will we be this fruitful, fertile soil? Will we be fruitful followers? Of Jesus Christ. And it doesn't just raise this question, I suppose it also gives us some hope, but it also does so with a warning. It is a maybe a little bit of law and gospel even embedded in these simple means of, again, talking about what it means to plant something and to entrust the planting, the acy of the growth there to the soil and the seed, and there's hope. There's warning and there's so much of that that's in this context of the parable, and that's what's led me to wanna talk to you all a little bit about that as we kinda process together more of what this means. [00:08:00] Historical Context and Expectations of the Messiah I was thinking that when Jesus began his ministry, when he's coming forward, he's really announcing the arrival of the kingdom of God. And it's helpful, I think, to meditate as a second on how profound that is, that he comes again, not just as the message, but the messenger and the medium of that message. I was just kinda ruminating on the fact that. Everybody had high expectations. There was no one, I think, with kind of a low opinion of what was about to happen or of what the Messiah was going to bring or what he was going to do. And here you have like explicitly Jesus' hearers, their ancestors would've been taken into exile and captivity because they had broken the covenant with God. And the prophets had made this case for God's punishment because of their idolatry and their injustice. But that message, and you get this especially in in books like Isaiah. Where there's this mixture that's bittersweet. There is not only an exclusive message of woe for the people, but there is at the same time up against sick, almost running parallel. This promise of a day when God, by his own effort in Zeal, would bring about a restoration where he'd set up visibly an earthly reign through his anointed Wanda Messiah. And so I can only imagine if I could. Even partially put myself in the place of these people who are hearing this particular parable, that there is all this sense that we have strayed from God, that we're covenant breakers, but that he has promised to make a way and that his own zeal will very much accomplish this, but it will be visible and earthly, not just spiritual in the sense that we believe these things and we internalize them in the sense for our being, and therefore we speak about them in these kind of grandiose and ephemeral terms. But more than that, that God was going to come and set up an earthly reign, purely manifested in the world in which we live and breathe and have our being. And so two things would happen. Israel's oppressors would be defeated. And God would institute a pure worship and a reestablished pure worship. And so I can't help but think maybe there was some of this expectation. They're, they're seeing this Messiah, this Jesus, the one who speaks with a different kind of authority, come into their midst. And there I think all these things are somewhere in their minds as their processing. Maybe they should be in ours as well. And so there's this portrait that's being painted here of the prophet saying there's gonna be. Restoration and this image of a seed being sown. And then of course you have these metaphors that Jesus is employing in his own time. Very reminiscent of passages like in Isaiah 55, where you find the prophet saying, for as the rain and the snow come down from heaven and do not return there, but water the earth, making it bring forth and sprout giving seed to the sower and bread to the eater. So shall my word be that goes out from my mouth. It shall not return empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose and I shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it. What an amazing, glorious promise of God that there is no suboptimal nature. In his expression of who he is and what he's accomplished, that the very thing that he intends to do, he always does, and this word comes back. I think what really strikes me about this passage in particular is the fact that it does not return to God empty. I mean, think about what that means. It's strange in a way. That. In other words, it's full of something. And here I think it's full of response. It's full of anticipation. It's full of this. Like what? What has gone out is now received by the individual and then returns with either acceptance or denial, very much in the same way that we're about to receive it in this parable before us. And in fact, even our ability to understand the parable. This if you have ears, he has ears. Let him hear that itself is an expression. So in other words. The power of this message is again, in the message itself, but the medium by which it is delivered, it does pierce the heart. It does pierce through bone and marrow. It does divide because it always returns full of either acceptance or full of rebellion and denial. And so when we think about the people of Israel. They exactly in that way. They return from exile under Ezra Nehemiah. But even those returns, even those improvements or some of that remediation seems to me like to come short of expectations. You know, Ezra rebuilt the temple, but it paled in comparison to Solomon's original, in fact. If we go to Ezra chapter three, there's like so much honesty as the people are seeing this rebuilt temple. Their response is, is like tragic in a way. So this is Ezra chapter three, beginning verse 12. But many of the priests and Levites and heads of fathers houses, old men. Who had seen the first house as the temple of God wept with a loud voice when they saw the foundation of this house being laid, though many shouted aloud for joy so that the people cannot distinguish the sound of the joyful from the sound of people's weeping for the people shouted with a great shout and the sound was heard far away, even in just the setting up the foundation, the base layer. There are those saying this is. This is not like it used to be. Even this is just far piles in comparison and falls very far short of the original. And of course you have Nehemiah's rebuilt wall around Jerusalem. Couldn't even ensure the holiness of God's people. And so everything up to that point. All of it was still just a shadow. It was like a big, giant disappointment, a blemish as it were, on God's people. Even as there was an attempt to restore, there was still this longing from the inside to have the real McCoy to everything made right to have the true Messiah come, not the one that was the type. Not the thing that was the shadow, not the the poor replacement or the analog, but the real thing. And so you have in response to this, you know, some of God's people move into the wilderness and pursue holy living. Some accommodated to Roman occupation like the Sadducees, some retreated into kind of individual individualistic piety or rule keeping like the Pharisees. And then there's all kinds of accounts of God's people in rebellion. Like Simon, the Zealots. There were some who even located themselves under the legitimate, yet Roman endorsed leadership of Herod, you know the Herodians. So you have all of these people you can imagine literally in the same audience. Jesus pushes back and he begins to teach them. And he starts by talking about horticulture. He starts by saying, A sower goes out and he throws all this kind of seed. And it's not difficult to imagine that all of the seed, all the soil, everything is represented in what he's saying right there. And then it's not a story as if like, well, you take this away and try to process it in such a way that you might come to terms with it later on. It's happening in the here and now. Even what he's saying. Even the message that he's communicating is being man made manifest right there in their midst, and it's not returning a void to him. The one who wrote it to begin with is the one who's speaking it, and it's having its desired effect, even as we read it now, and it reads us today. [00:15:13] Jesus' Ministry and the Kingdom of God And so it's amazing that it's on this stage that Jesus steps out and he stands, especially in the synagogue when he reads from the Isaiah scroll. And he announces that the true jubilee has now arrived and it's arrived in him. You know, by the way, what's interesting there is we have, we have no real reason to think that Israel ever really practiced Jubilee as it was outlined in the scriptures. So we have this beautiful instruction for a reset, a pure reset, and one that is liberty and freedom in so many ways, but especially demonstrated in this economic reality. And Jesus commences his public ministry proclaiming the good new. News that the kingdom of God has arrived. I feel like we have to go there, right? Because this is just so good. So in MOOC chapter four, Jesus stands up. He asks for the scroll, and this is what he reads. Loved ones. These are fantastic words. I mean, hear them from the mouth of our Savior. Again, Jesus reads this, the spirits of the Lord is upon me. Because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He sent me to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovering of sight to the blind to set at liberty those who are oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor. It's such incredibly strong and powerful news. We're getting this sense that there are those who are poor that need. To hear that something will be different. That they are her, that they're seen that all of the straining in life and all of their labor is not in vain, but here is one who's come to rescue them and that those who have been set in prison, those who are chained and under duress and find themselves locked up. That here he has come to proclaim liberty to the captives, and then for those that cannot see, that have lost their way entirely, that are groping in the dark, here is one that's coming to recover the sight. Hear that word, not to give it brand new, but to restore that which was originally present to begin with. Imagine the horror of having your sights and then having it taken away that. Knowing that there was something there that was beautiful in your midst, something that was precious to you, and now to have that restored, in fact, like Blind by de MEUs the Greek, there is more when God says, or Jesus rather, says, what do you want me to do for you? The Greek is very clear, just says, sight again, sight again. And I think we like our ancestors and Israel here before us. We ought to be always clamoring and crying. Then I tell God like, son of David sight again. Would you help me to see truly not as the world appears to be, but we spiritual eyes, to know the truth, to understand how much you love me, and would you gimme the strength to love you? Me back love you back by way of giving, yes, this sight. And then for all those who are downtrodden. Where, wherever, and whatever that means, physically, emotionally, spiritually, that here's the one who has come to, again, set you at liberty and then to say, do you know what this time is? This is the time of the Lord's favor. Why? Because the son of man is here and where the son of man is. There is freedom and restoration. There is a new king over all things. There's one who super intends over all of the earth. Who has been given control over all things and has come to win literally the day for those who are rebellious before God, for those who have sinned, who are covenant breakers, who are gospel abusers, while we were at yet enmity with God at the right time, Jesus and his son for us. And so we find that it's like the pretext, it's the context for all of this, and especially this parable. And of course, rather than. Everybody listening to what Jesus has to say here and just being one over being filled with some kind of winsome logic of what's being said here, of being thoroughly convinced. We know that of course it's not just a matter of evidence, but unless the Holy Spirit comes the same spirit, which is upon Jesus, the sin of God, to change us, to open our ears, that we do not hear these things, we don't hear them as we ought to. We do not give them heed. We do not internalize them, and we cannot understand them. And so because of that, rather than of course meeting with universal acceptance, Jesus, of course, he encounters a host of reactions. Some opposed him. The crowds sometimes were way more motivated, like people in our day by novelty or curiosity or by presume rewards or blessings. You can imagine this is what makes, of course, something like the Blat and grab, its kind of gospel, the prosperity of some of our modern evangelical expression, so incredibly dangerous. Because of course people will say, well, if I can get that blessing, of course I want Jesus. Or if I'm gonna be made, well, yes, I'll, I'll find, I'll take Jesus. If I'm gonna get wealth and riches and a 401k, that's gonna suit my every need. Well sure I'll take Jesus. And of course, the blessing, the reward of getting Jesus is getting the son of God, getting the one who restores us first and predominantly. With God the father himself, that all of those blessings are already ours in the spiritual realm because of Jesus. In fact, we've, we've already been placed with him in the heavenly realms. That is the reward. And so sometimes the gods were a little bit more motivated by, this guy's given us bread before. Let's see if there's gonna be another buffet, rather than he says We ought to eat and drink his flesh. That in that is eternal life, and so we get distracted. And so sometimes novelty and curiosity just win the day. And then of course, on the other hand. Some of the most unlikely unseemly, most sinful were responding with incredible joy and embracing Jesus and his announcement. Tenaciously like voraciously, the ones who were humble, who knew that they needed a savior, they needed a reconciliation that was alien and outside of themselves. Something powerful that could defeat even the sin that was within them and bring about a pure and unbridled atonement, unreserved in its ability to clean. These were the ones who were saying, come, Lord Jesus, these were the ones crying out, saying, have mercy on me, son of David. And we like them. Ought to follow that example. And so throughout Matthew's Gospel and Luke's gospel. There's a mixed response throughout the entire ministry of Jesus. And again, what's unique about this parable, I think, is that Jesus comes setting the stage for that unique response. All of those different kind of options and how people will perceive him, how they respond to him, what they will say to him. And so whether as you go through the narratives in the gospels, you look to. The Samaritan Leopard or the blind beggar, or the Chief tax Collector, or the impoverished widow, all of these were those who were forcing their way into the kingdom in response during the good news. There's really something I think that's beautiful about that, that God allows for us to force our way as it were. When we are convicted of this kingdom, that he is the kingdom and that he brings it to us. That we come headlong, rushing in, falling over ourselves to get into that kingdom by the power of the Holy Spirit. And that's why I think, why, why Luke writes in chapter 16 of his gospel. The law in the prophets were until John. Since then, the good news of the kingdom of God is preached and everyone forces his way into it. What a amazing and lovely thing that God allows us. Which is the truth, to force our way into that. So these were the ones who proved to be the fertile soil for the word of the kingdom, not the ones who chose the places of honor or the privilege, or we saw Jesus one of many important priorities to be managed. What we have here is the ones who forced their way in. These were the ones who proved to be the fertile soil, and I'm not gonna steal. Any of our thunder, because Tony and I are gonna talk about that in the next episode. But I bring that up merely to say there's so much that's rich here. When we think about are we as Christians fruitful and fertile? In our following, after the Lord Jesus Christ. And that's Matthew's great theme of reversal, like beginning in the birth narratives of Jesus and continuing through the very end of his gospel count. Even like in his final parable, Jesus forced the confrontation with his opponents by declaring that God would give the kingdom to those who had produce a harvest for God in honor. His son. That's the truth. And so he was more than simply this messenger in these cleverly created stories announcing the arrival of God's reign. He was the one who brought the kingdom. And actually, in fact, Jesus embodies the kingdom because he was the king, not only of Israel, but the royal son of God who would rule the nations. And because of that. He did represent a threat to overthrow to some just as much as he was meant as a salvation and a blessing to others. He is divisive. In fact, what's interesting is if you track Jesus standing up in the temple. And he comes forward and reads from Isaiah. It's interesting where he stops reading. This is really before kind of the, all the language about the second coming back, him really coming not to bring just salvation, but to bring retribution, to bring justice and punishment for those who are God's enemies. And so really this first coming. Jesus is all about this. It's it's all about having the message of God go out in that return void. It's returning full of the response of God's people, full of the response of God's enemies and therefore. This parable, an ex explanation to his inner circle would be understood as an accounting for the surprising range of responses. And even more than I think like an ex explanation, like explicitly it would be this kind of preparation. This kind of, again, setting a table or opening up a pathway for this hard road that lay ahead for those who would remain true to Jesus. These would be the ones who would serve the ultimate purpose of God's great act of sowing in his son to produce a great harvest. And of course. That is partly what lies the hope for us. I mean, I think I said last time we spoke about this, what I appreciate about this teaching is not only that it doesn't pull any punches, but it's just so. Real, it's so resonant because Jesus already gives us some of the breadth and scope or the continuum of the responses so that when we go out and we should so unreservedly that that is by proclaiming Jesus as the king who has come as the kingdom already ushered in as here, but not yet. When we do this, we can expect already that there'll be various responses. So one for us, it takes away the surprise. The second is it does prepare us. That these things might in fact happen. And three, it gives us a sense that, again, the efficacy of salvation. And we're getting, by the way, this view of salvation from, from God isn't again dependent on the skillset of the sower. Instead, it is God's prerogative. It's always God's prerogative. And here as loved ones, you've heard me say again, I must invoke the phrase, we have God doing all the verbs, right? He's the one walking in the field. He's the one reaching in into the seed bag, as it were. He's the one casting it liberally across the ground. He's the one making it grow. All of this is what God is doing. The preparation of the soil, the casting of the seed, the being present in. Farmland. All of this is what God is doing now. We emulate that by design. So now the call is to do what Jesus has done here in Mala for us, and that is that we also go out into the world and we proclaim this good news because what is unequivocally true is that the good news of Jesus Christ. Is for all people. Now, this does not mean that all people will accept it. That is abundantly clear in the message that Jesus gives to us. It does not prevent though us or him from casting it out to all people. We see that really, really. Vividly. Some will be given ears to hear. We ought to pray that our neighbors, our children, those in our churches and our communities, our politicians, we ought to be praying that all would be given ears to hear, and the seed of God's word will accomplish exactly what God intends and Jesus' word, a proclamation announcing the good news of the kingdom of God. We see vividly the point that God's word is. Deed that this word that he spoke speaks is his action. It's not simply that God says what he will do, but that his very act of speaking is the means by which he does that very thing. When we hear God speak to us, it is proof that we are alive. Not only do like dead men tell no tales, I think I've just inadvertently like quoted from Disney's. Um. Pirates movie, but they hear no tells as well. You know, you have been born again, not a perishable seed, but of imperishable through the living and abiding word of God. Incredible. Isn't it? Loved ones like it's incredible this story that to me on the beginning seems like so kind of. Boring and not particularly catchy and maybe not as interesting as some of the others contained within. This is literally all the words of life in the seed that we've seen thrown and in. It is like the continuum we find, not that it emulates the Old Testament, or that it somehow compliments New Testament, but within all within this parable is all of the scriptures and all of the full plan of God and all of his great love for us. That again, while we were at his enemies, he came and on this path, as he walks among the field, he casts the seed. To all, and he, by his power, gives to some these ears to hear. We find ourselves humbled. We find ourselves rushing in coming into the kingdom, fighting to come into it because God has impassioned us with that same zeal that has accomplished this very thing. He implants it in our hearts, in our minds, in our guts, so that we would come before him and worship him, fall down and find. The one who is our savior, who ushers in the visible kingdom of God, the one that is not built merely on political theories, on good rules. The kind of gospel that didn't come to make bad people good, but came to make dead people alive again. And I think that that is the absolute. Untouchable, unfathomable, almost completely un understandable, if you will, truth of this particular parable. I think this is why the Westminster confession describes the word of God, and particularly the preaching of the word as a means of grace. The word is powerful in itself by the spirits of God. I had to quote the Westminster, of course, at least in honor of Tony, so. [00:30:02] Call to Action and Final Thoughts That's my little challenge to you on this short little episode. It's just you and me and I'm saying to you loved ones. Consider this parable again. Consider how palpable this parable is. Consider what God has for us in it. Consider this soils. And then think about what it means that this good news, we see this within it, this vivid point again, that God's word is his deed. And so this is why though we do not create any kind of legalistic, conscription, or prescription around something like daily Bible study. Why? It's such a blessing to live in this period of time where we have such easy access for most of us to the word of God, and that we ought to be zealous about getting that word out to all people because, because behind it and within it and around it is the full power of the Holy Spirit that is always going out into the world and returning full with response and that when God. Speaks his word. He's always accomplishing his act in that very deed. And so it should be a blessing. We should be compelled to find ourselves in it as much as often as we can because what we're finding there is the power of God for us, in us speaking, administering to us to produce in us a great harvest. That's the promise it's coming, and we're gonna get there in the next. Episode, but what I'll leave you with is just those first two soils thinking about if you have ears to hear, if you have been made alive together with Christ, then consider that there was a time when you are one of the other soils and God who's being rich in mercy has rescued you. Not because of work done in righteousness, not because you've come forward and. Elevate your place to the, to elevate your state to the place of deserving poor. Not because like you came forward with, with empty hands and somehow convinced God that you are worthy enough, or sorry enough or contrite enough. But because of his great mercy, and it's that mercy, I think that compels us to say things to Jesus like Son of David Sight again. Son of David, have mercy on me, son of David. You are the real arrival of the Kingdom of God and your word bears testimony and your Holy Spirit has in a great work in my life. And to that end, I want to follow you and I want to ensure that this word that you've given to me is given to all people. So there's work to do, loved ones. And there's a lot there to process. I hope that you will take some time. Think about this in your own way, and as you are processing this as God is speaking to you, as you are joining together with loved ones from literally all over the world who are hanging out and listening to Tony and I chat about this stuff, that again, you would share your own voice, the best way to do that. Why do you make me beg you? Come join the Telegram chat. You'll have a great time. It's super fun. T me slash Reform Brotherhood. I would also be remiss if I didn't on behalf of myself and Tony, thank everyone who does hang out there, everyone who sent us the email, everyone who shares prayer requests or has prayed for us, and as well everyone who makes sure that this podcast. Is free of charge. It comes with its own expenses. It's not free to produce. And so we're so thankful that those who've said, listen, I've been blessed by the podcast, or It's just been important or special to me. God has done something in it. Or God has renewed a different kind of desire and passion to talk about the things of God or to encourage me in my life. I'm so happy if other things have happened. By the way, it's not because of Tony or me. It's because God is good to us. I mean, can I get an amen? I see that hand. In the back, God is good to Tony and me and we're just so thankful that we get to do this. And so if you'd like to join in supporting financially. Every little gift helps. You can go to patreon.com/reform brotherhood patreon.com, reform Brotherhood, and there you can find a way to give one time or reoccurring all of those gifts together. Make sure that there's no payrolls on this bad boy that you're not gonna get any super weird ads in the middle of it. You're just gonna get us talking. We want to em, I would say be emblematic of what we've talked about here, which is. Freely we've received freely want to give. And for those who join and say, I wanna make that possible so that no one has to be compelled to pay for this kind of thing, I love that we are here for that every day of the week and twice on the Lord's day. So next episode, Tony and I are gonna continue in this parable. We're probably, you know, gonna get together. We'll set up our tents, we'll just camp out here for a little bit. So until we get the tents out, we get the s'mores. And we start camping. Honor everyone love the brotherhood.

Many are passionate about a lot of things and many are passionate about their religion, but is sincerity enough. Join us as we explore how zeal without knowledge can lead us to miss out on what God has for us from Romans 10:1-4.

The Lawyer Stories Podcast Episode 238 features Donald “Don” E. Smolen II, Owner & Attorney at Smolen Law | The Alpha Firm in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Raised on a ranch just south of Tulsa, Don's grit and work ethic shaped his career, and after earning both his B.A. in Psychology and his J.D. with honors at the University of Tulsa, he founded Smolen Law, becoming one of Oklahoma's leading trial lawyers. At The Alpha Firm, Don and his team focus on Catastrophic Tort Litigation including insurance bad faith, medical malpractice, product liability, and complex personal injury. He has secured numerous multimillion-dollar verdicts and settlements, consistently fighting against powerful corporations and insurance companies, guided by a simple but powerful philosophy: approach every case with zeal, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to client advocacy. In this episode, Don shares his personal journey, how his upbringing influences his courtroom style, and what it takes to win high-stakes, life-altering cases.

 Go to sermon webpage: THE SEARCH FOR SALVATION

https://storage.googleapis.com/enduring-word-media/devotional/Devotional09272025.mp3 The post Zeal For My Will, Not For God's Will – 1 Samuel 15:17-21 – September 27, 2025 appeared first on Enduring Word. https://enduringword.com/zeal-for-my-will-not-for-gods-will-1-samuel-1517-21-september-27-2025/feed/ 0 https://storage.googl

Today, on Preaching to Myself, Holly Hill joins the pod to debrief the previous episode and share a word about passion for God's house.Intro Music: Chris Howland - Sriracha!Music courtesy of amen worldwide (amenworldwide.com)Links to Merch Store and Social Media: linktr.ee/preachingtomyself

Becoming a pastor is easy, right? Do some studying, find a church, and you're good to go! Obviously that's not the case. But is it perhaps even more complicated than we might imagine? We'll look at the complex layering making up a Gospel pastor in this study. Galatians 4:17-20 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

 Go to sermon webpage: TENETS: BAPTISM

Zeal is good! But clearly, it's not always right. Imagine you're part of a group who are very zealous about your belief that the earth is flat. Get as zealous as you want during your monthly meetings, but the astronauts are still going to look at you sideways. Spiritual zeal also has its positives and its negatives, and we'll look at that continuum in this study. Galatians 4:17-20 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As Gunderson Dettmer celebrates clients on the Forbes “30 under 30” list, Emily Zhen reflects on her immigrant family's journey, her unique background spanning biology and finance at Wharton and her early role in healthcare investment banking at Goldman Sachs. Today, she is a principal at Zeal Capital Partners, where she deploys capital to close gaps in health, wealth, and skills. “I think a lot about holistic whole body care, and that involves every aspect of your life. It involves your financial wellbeing, it involves your workplace wellbeing, how you show up at work, and it involves your health,” she tells host Natalie Pierce. Tune in as Emily unpacks Zeal's approach to wellness that connects financial technology, workforce development and healthcare to create lasting impact across generations.Episode HighlightsEmily's experience as a first-generation American shaped her mission-driven approach to investing, seeing firsthand how economic mobility and education transformed her family's life.At Zeal Capital Partners, Emily started and leads the healthcare investing vertical and also invests in fintech and future-of-work solutions; as she explains, "holistic whole body care involves every aspect of your life," including financial wellbeing and workplace wellness.Emily describes how women weren't required to be included in clinical trials until 1993, highlighting the massive healthcare disparities that still exist. It's vital to include not just women but racial minorities as well in such trials to ensure the science is accurate, she says.Emily highlights innovative companies in Zeal Capital's portfolio, including Seven Starling for women's mental health, Icon Savings Plan for portable retirement benefits, and Daivergent for neurodivergent job training.Emily's "nudge and touch" philosophy emphasizes using AI and technology to enable and augment human relationships rather than replace them, particularly important in healthcare where personal connections with providers remain essential.

Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. [NIV]

Join us this week as Pastor Andrew teaches on the importance of the church operating in it's design. We all have a role and invitation to participate rather than spectate. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

NEXT STEPS- Have you made a decision to follow Jesus? You may be wondering what's next on your journey. We want to help! Let us guide you to your next steps in your walk with Christ: https://atmosphere.church/new-to-faith•JOIN A LIFE GROUP- Find the community you've been looking for. Discover the prayer warriors waiting to stand with you. If you're interested in joining or starting a Life Group, visit https://atmosphere.church/life-groups•ABOUT ATMOSPHERE.CHURCH- Wherever you are in life, you have a purpose. Atmosphere.Church wants to help you find your next step. Our hope is that your journey will include joining us in-person at our location in Thousand Oaks, California or globally online at https://atmosphere.church/watch•For the best experience connecting with us, download the Atmosphere.Church app at https://qrco.de/atmosphere-ca

Sermons Archive RSS John 2:13-22 Now the Passover of the Jews was at hand, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem. 14 And He found in the temple those who sold oxen and sheep and doves, and the money changers doing business. 15 When He had made a whip of cords, He drove them all out of the temple, with the sheep and the oxen, and poured out the changers' money and overturned the tables. 16 And He said to those who sold doves, “Take these things away! Do not make My Father's house a house of merchandise!” 17 Then His disciples remembered that it was written, “Zeal for Your house has eaten Me up.”18 So the Jews answered and said to Him, “What sign do You show to us, since You do these things?”19 Jesus answered and said to them, “Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.”20 Then the Jews said, “It has taken forty-six years to build this temple, and will You raise it up in three days?”21 But He was speaking of the temple of His body. 22 Therefore, when He had risen from the dead, His disciples remembered that He had said this to them; and they believed the Scripture and the word which Jesus had said.Psalm 69:9 Because zeal for Your house has eaten me up,And the reproaches of those who reproach You have fallen on me.Leviticus 26:11-12 I will set My tabernacle among you, and My soul shall not abhor you.12 I will walk among you and be your God, and you shall be My people.Colossians 2:9 For in Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily;Colossians 1:15 He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation.Ephesians 2:19-22 Now, therefore, you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, 20 having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone, 21 in whom the whole building, being fitted together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord, 22 in whom you also are being built together for a dwelling place of God in the Spirit.1 Corinthians 6:19-20 Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? 20 For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God's.

 Go to sermon webpage: EQUIPPED FOR EVERY GOOD WORK

Jehu Destroys Ahab's Family (vv. 1–17):Jehu writes letters to Samaria, where Ahab's seventy sons live, challenging the leaders to make one of them king and fight for the throne. Fearing Jehu, they refuse and pledge loyalty to him. Jehu orders them to kill Ahab's sons and send him their heads, which they do. Jehu piles the heads in two heaps at the city gate, declaring that God's word spoken through Elijah has been fulfilled. He continues to kill all remaining relatives and supporters of Ahab in Jezreel and Samaria.Jehu Slaughters Ahaziah's Relatives (vv. 12–14):On his way to Samaria, Jehu meets relatives of King Ahaziah of Judah and has them executed.Jehu and Jehonadab (vv. 15–17):Jehu meets Jehonadab son of Rechab, a respected leader, and invites him to join in his zeal for the Lord. Together, they continue wiping out Ahab's family.Jehu Destroys Baal Worship (vv. 18–28):Jehu tricks the Baal worshipers by announcing a great sacrifice to Baal. He gathers them all in the temple, ensuring none of the Lord's servants are present. Once the temple is full, Jehu's men kill everyone inside and destroy the temple, turning it into a latrine.Jehu's Reign (vv. 29–36):Although Jehu eradicated Baal worship, he did not turn away from the sins of Jeroboam (the golden calves at Bethel and Dan). The Lord commends Jehu for carrying out judgment on Ahab's house and promises that his descendants will rule Israel for four generations. However, because Jehu did not fully obey God, the Lord begins reducing Israel's territory through attacks from Hazael of Aram. Jehu reigns in Samaria for 28 years, and his son Jehoahaz succeeds him.Key Themes:Fulfillment of God's judgment against Ahab's dynasty.Zeal for God must be wholehearted—partial obedience is not enough.The danger of replacing one false worship with another (Baal destroyed, but golden calves remain).God rewards obedience but also disciplines incomplete faithfulness.

Do you feel like your walk with God has grown dry or routine? In this episode, Kim Owens, pastor of Fresh Start Church in Arizona and author of Passionate Pursuit: Sustaining the Zeal of Personal Revival, shares how to live in the fullness of God's presence every day. She gives practical ways to cultivate intimacy in the secret place, feed your spirit, and pursue a life of passion and zeal for the Lord. This conversation will stir your hunger for more of God and remind you that you were created for daily communion with Him. About Kim: Kim Owens and her husband, Paul, are senior pastors of Fresh Start Church, a multigenerational, multicultural church in Peoria, Arizona, where the spirit of revival is alive. Known for her straightforward, high-impact messages, Pastor Kim is a revivalist and sought-after conference speaker and media guest, appearing on Sid Roth's It's Supernatural!, The Eric Metaxas Show, The Jim Bakker Show, Encounter Underground, and more.   Visit Our Website for Show Notes: ACupFullofHopePodcast.com Follow A Cup Full of Hope on Facebook and Instagram: Instagram • Facebook Follow Caroline on Facebook and Instagram: Instagram • Facebook

Lukewarmness isn't neutral—it's dangerous and spiritually misleading. Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar examine the powerful message to the church in Laodicea and encourage believers to examine their hearts. Has your passion diminished? In Revelation, Christ rebukes a self-reliant church that no longer depends on Him for strength or purpose. The call isn't about striving more. It's about surrender, trust, and returning to intimacy with the Lord who pursues us.The guys explain how Laodicea's water supply often arrived lukewarm, making it unfit for drinking. That same unpleasant temperature reflected the church's spiritual condition and lack of power. Lukewarm water, like lukewarm faith, served no purpose. It symbolized a church that had lost its spiritual vitality and didn't even realize it. They explore how the church is called to be salt and light, a shining source of hope and truth in a dark, dying world. That mission requires zeal, not apathy or self-confidence. Good works don't save, but they are the fruit of saving grace and evidence of transformed hearts. We are His workmanship, created in Christ for good works that bring Him glory. True zeal isn't about chaos or hype; it's steady, humble obedience flowing from a heart filled with gratitude for the gospel and shaped by the Word.Mark reflects on how God speaks to the heart, not through empty words or outward performance. Lip service doesn't move Him. It's in real, desperate prayer and sincere repentance that transformation occurs. Repentance is sweet, hope-filled, and full of promise. It's not about guilt; it's about turning fully toward Christ with open hands. Ray shares how, as a new believer, he was consumed with a desire to share the gospel with everyone around him. That same fire is available to all of us who ask.Zeal is contagious. When believers live fully devoted to Christ, the lives around them are changed. Many hesitate to apply that same passion to their faith. Some believers go all in for hobbies and careers, but when it comes to eternity, they pull back. The Christian life isn't easy or casual. It demands endurance, discipline, and spiritual awareness. Christians must be grounded in Scripture, guided by truth, and surrounded by people who speak life into their walk. Oscar brings it back to Revelation. Salvation is not earned. It's a gift of grace through faith alone. When you truly see the beauty of God's mercy, your affections are reshaped, and zeal becomes the natural response. Christ is worthy of your whole life—every moment, every heartbeat, every ounce of devotion you have to give.Send us a textThanks for listening! If you've been helped by this podcast, we'd be grateful if you'd consider subscribing, sharing, and leaving us a comment and 5-star rating! Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!You can find helpful counseling resources at biblicalcounseling.com.Check out The Evidence Study Bible and the Basic Training Course.You can connect with us at podcast@livingwaters.com. We're thankful for your input!Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.Ray ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro