When there are no answers on earth; when it all seems so unfair; when life deals one cruel blow after another; when there are clouds but no silver lining; that is when we worship God with childlike faith. That is when we learn to truly worship Him on the basis of who He is, rather than who we expect Him to be.

Is it possible to worship God even when He takes everything away us? Is it possible to love Him even when He seems to have abandoned us? Job's life offers us a resounding "yes!"

If there is a single question that has rattled Christians' minds throughout the ages it is this: "Why do God's children suffer?" Everyone asks it at some point in their lives. It is a question that deals not only with the big troubles but also with little trials as well. So what is the answer? Stephen gives us some insight from the book of Job.

There’s great joy when something is made just for you—a tailor-made suit, a build-your-own sundae, or a custom home. The designed outcome is perfect for you. Did you know that your suffering and trials in this life are also custom-made just for you by God? They are designed to deepen your faith and teach you to fully entrust your life to our Creator God.

As we prepare for the end of this age and Jesus’ return, it’s all about attitude. Instead of seeking control amid growing chaos, we must choose surrender to the Lord’s plan. Instead of merely resting in our salvation and future glory, we must pity unbelievers for the eternal wrath awaiting them.

Jesus was mocked and scorned His whole life. And His followers have been persecuted ever since. As His return draws nearer, the hatred for Christians will continue to grow. How can we stand strong in our faith and glorify God, even when we suffer for Christ’s sake?

In his letter, Peter tells us to not only expect trials in life, but to celebrate them! Thankfully, he also describes for us how this is possible for the believer, and he encourages us to use our inevitable suffering to become more like Jesus.

Behind every great event are countless individuals that have worked, often without accolades, to make it happen. The Church is no different, filled with God-empowered Christians serving each other’s needs in support of a single grand purpose: to glorify God!

God has given every believer special gifts. But they’re not ours—they belong to Him. And as each day brings us closer to the return of Christ, Peter encourages us to prepare by identifying our gifts and then sharing them for God’s glory.

We are living in the last days. And, as believers, we are called to prepare as the end draws near. But the Biblical instruction for readiness contradicts worldly expectations, challenging us to stay focused on others.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           

To believers, “the end is near” means something very different than to the rest of humanity. While the world fears inevitable catastrophe, Christians are anticipating the return of Jesus Christ and our eternal future with Him.

Love isn’t just something God does; it’s something He is. And in this message, Stephen explains why that is eternally significant for us as believers.

Who are the teachers and who are the students in the body of Christ? In this message, Stephen turns our commonly-held notion on its head as he reveals that we are all called to be stewards of Truth. 

Who are the teachers and who are the students in the body of Christ? In this message, Stephen turns our commonly-held notion on its head as he reveals that we are all called to be stewards of Truth. 

The difference between a weak believer and a strong believer isn’t that one doubts and the other doesn’t; it’s that the strong believer is strengthened through doubt while the weak believer is crippled by it.

When we remember the story of Cain and Abel merely as the first murder-account in history, we miss the real, Divinely-inspired weight of the account. Join Stephen in this message to rediscover what makes this story so unforgettable.

When we remember the story of Cain and Abel merely as the first murder-account in history, we miss the real, Divinely-inspired weight of the account. Join Stephen in this message to rediscover what makes this story so unforgettable.

The Church is made up of people from different races, classes, social traditions, and political convictions, and that means that God’s family is a smorgasbord of diversity! But amidst the diversity, there is something every child of God has in common. Join Stephen in this message to find out what it is.

The Church is made up of people from different races, classes, social traditions, and political convictions, and that means that God’s family is a smorgasbord of diversity! But amidst the diversity, there is something every child of God has in common. Join Stephen in this message to find out what it is.

Hope can be a consuming thing, can’t it? Just ask the mother who is waiting for her son to come home from war or the father who is kneeling at the bedside of his sick wife. Hope drowns out trivial thoughts and focuses only on that which matters most. In this message, Stephen reminds us that the Christian life should be a life consumed by hope.

Hope can be a consuming thing, can’t it? Just ask the mother who is waiting for her son to come home from war or the father who is kneeling at the bedside of his sick wife. Hope drowns out trivial thoughts and focuses only on that which matters most. In this message, Stephen reminds us that the Christian life should be a life consumed by hope.

When the Apostle John reminds us what it means to be a part of God’s family, he can’t contain his excitement. You can feel his passion pour out through the text as he says, “Look friends! Just look at the love which God has lavished upon us!” In this message, Stephen does exactly that.

When the Apostle John reminds us what it means to be a part of God’s family, he can’t contain his excitement. You can feel his passion pour out through the text as he says, “Look friends! Just look at the love which God has lavished upon us!” In this message, Stephen does exactly that.

Everyone loves a good fairy tale, especially the ones with happy endings. As believers, we are part of a real-life tale, with a great Rescue, a real Prince, and true Love. In Matthew’s gospel, the lineage of Jesus includes Boaz and Ruth, a literal love story that depicts and prefigures the redemption that Jesus Christ made more than 1000 years later for all those who believe in Him. It’s a story of amazing grace that brings a new joy to the Christmas season. It’s a story that begins before time and ends—for every Christian—happily forever after.

Most people are aware of the account of David and Bathsheba—it’s an infamous story of adultery, conspiracy, and murder. But there’s more to the story that many don’t consider. In fact, within the genealogy of Jesus written in the first chapter of Matthew’s gospel, both David and Bathsheba are listed as ancestors of the King of Kings. By naming this couple here, the Bible reveals their repentance, God’s forgiveness, and ultimately, the marvelous grace of Jesus available to us all.

Despite the “coexist” bumper stickers and other unity-of-world-religion assertions in our culture today, the fact is that Christianity is different—and it’s exclusive. In fact, it’s the only belief system that is fully rooted in historical and archaeological fact. The genealogy of Jesus found at the beginning of Matthew not only attests to His surprising ancestry, but also asserts unique gems of profound truth about the Person of Jesus Christ and promises of God.

Most of us glance over the genealogy of Jesus in the first chapter of Matthew—the list of names seems tedious and even irrelevant at first glance. But, as Pastor Davey describes in this insightful teaching, there are four key truths purposefully woven within His ancestry: Jesus is the undisputed King; God keeps His promises; God is sovereign and His timing is perfect; and Jesus came in humility from a lineage of sinners to save a world of sinners.

We typically think that the first people to learn of the birth of a new king, apart from his family, would be people of importance--noblemen, presidents perhaps. Why did God select shepherds as some of the first humans to learn that Messiah had come? Jesus set His kingly attributes aside and became a man. Jesus didn't have to be born in a stable--he chose to. Stephen concludes his series entitled "Emmanuel" by looking at the birth announcement delivered to shepherds in a field.

When God finally broke His 400 years of silence, He didn't speak through a messenger or a prophet or a priest as in times past. He spoke directly. So join Stephen in this riveting message to better understand the implications that truth has for us today.

Mary and Joseph’s role in the drama of Christmas teaches us a great deal about faith and obedience. So join Stephen as we learn from their unforgettable example.

Mary was just a teenage Jewish girl when the angel delivered to her the astounding message that God’s Son was inside her. How could she handle such a revelation? How could she be expected to raise the Savior of the world? Find out now as Stephen reminds us that God never makes mistakes when choosing His servants.

Zacharias was given an unbelievable promise by God. He was told that before he died he would see the long-awaited Messiah. So join Stephen in this message to discover Zacharias’ timeless response when God’s promise is finally granted him.

Jesus Christ is the subject of more than 300 Old Testament prophecies. His birth and life were foretold by numerous prophets over a period of 1,500 years. So why do people still refuse to believe in Him? Stephen gives us insight as he takes us to one of the most beautiful prophecies in the Bible.

So far in his series "Christmas Choices," Stephen has taken us from the throne of heaven to a stable on the outskirts of Bethlehem to show us important decisions that have made the gospel so unforgettable. But in this message, we'll witness one of the most shocking decisions yet as the Jews decide to kill their long-awaited Messiah.

When it comes time for Christmas, we too often forget about Joseph. His choice to wed Mary despite the scandalous allegations leveled against her is one of the most defining and self-sacrificing moments in the Christmas story -- nay, history.

Behind the carols, productions, sermons, and decorations that fill our churches and brighten our homes every Christmas season, there is a divine mystery that we have only begun to explore.

In this message, Stephen shows us the source of Daniel’s effectiveness in the midst of a land that defied His God and his people.

In this message, Stephen shows us the source of Daniel’s effectiveness in the midst of a land that defied His God and his people.

Subscribe to The Wisdom Journey on your favorite podcast app! Learn more: https://www.wisdomonline.org/twj-broadcast The Wisdom Journey is a three-year journey through the Bible, Genesis to Revelation, with one 10-minute lesson each weekday. The Wisdom Journey will help you understand the truth of God’s Word and apply that truth to your life as you courageously and obediently live for the glory of Jesus Christ. You will learn the entire storyline of the Bible. You will discover how the Bible fits together to tell one primary story - the story of God's love for you. You will gain practical insight to help you obey the Bible each day.

The story of history was written long before Adam ever took his first breath, and God constantly reminds us of that truth throughout Scripture. In Daniel chapter 2, He gives us a prophetic glimpse into the end of human history, so join Stephen in this message to see what God has in store.

The story of history was written long before Adam ever took his first breath, and God constantly reminds us of that truth throughout Scripture. In Daniel chapter 2, He gives us a prophetic glimpse into the end of human history, so join Stephen in this message to see what God has in store.

God’s severe judgment of mankind is never an easy thought for us to stomach, but part of that is because we overlook His mercy in the midst of it. In this message, Stephen reminds us that before God extends His righteous arm in judgment, He always offers a way out. 

God’s severe judgment of mankind is never an easy thought for us to stomach, but part of that is because we overlook His mercy in the midst of it. In this message, Stephen reminds us that before God extends His righteous arm in judgment, He always offers a way out. 

God has many ways of humbling people, but the way He humbles an arrogant, narcissistic King named Nebuchadnezzar is perhaps the most unforgettable the world has ever seen. So join Stephen in this message to discover what Nebuchadnezzar learned through this unusual process.

God has many ways of humbling people, but the way He humbles an arrogant, narcissistic King named Nebuchadnezzar is perhaps the most unforgettable the world has ever seen. So join Stephen in this message to discover what Nebuchadnezzar learned through this unusual process.

Millions of church-goers today think that following God will lead to greater health, wealth, and prosperity. But what happens when it leads to a fiery furnace?

Millions of church-goers today think that following God will lead to greater health, wealth, and prosperity. But what happens when it leads to a fiery furnace?

The city was burning behind him. His God seemed to have been defeated. His hands were put in bonds. Yet, Daniel’s youthful resolve to remain faithful to God in the midst of unthinkable calamity altered the course of his life. Join Stephen in this message to find out why.

The city was burning behind him. His God seemed to have been defeated. His hands were put in bonds. Yet, Daniel’s youthful resolve to remain faithful to God in the midst of unthinkable calamity altered the course of his life. Join Stephen in this message to find out why.

There are a lot of charlatans in the Church today who fool God’s people by introducing something novel about Scripture or by claiming you need their help to understand the mysteries of God’s Word. In this message Stephen exhorts you to stop relying on teachers for your sanctification and start relying on the Holy Spirit.

There are a lot of charlatans in the Church today who fool God’s people by introducing something novel about Scripture or by claiming you need their help to understand the mysteries of God’s Word. In this message Stephen exhorts you to stop relying on teachers for your sanctification and start relying on the Holy Spirit.

The Apostle John tells us in chapter 2 of his first letter exactly how we can identify false teachers in the Church, and it has nothing to do with how they dress or what translation they read from. It has everything to do with what they say about Christ.

While the book of First John is one of the most convicting in all of Scripture, it is also one of the most uplifting. So join Stephen once again in his series – After Darkness, Light – as we witness the Apostle John shift his tone from exhortation to encouragement.

Love has become so diluted in our culture that we barely even know what it means anymore… much less what it looks like. And that’s a big problem because the Apostle John warns us that our love for God is correlated to our love for others. So let’s rejoin Stephen in his study of 1st John as he reminds us what Biblical love is all about. 

Love has become so diluted in our culture that we barely even know what it means anymore… much less what it looks like. And that’s a big problem because the Apostle John warns us that our love for God is correlated to our love for others. So let’s rejoin Stephen in his study of 1st John as he reminds us what Biblical love is all about. 

How can we have assurance of salvation? As we battle against our fickle emotions and ever-changing minds, how can we be certain that we are God’s children? Stephen brings us an answer from Scripture that you probably won’t expect. 

Will God ever regret saving you? Will He ever become so fed up with your constant failure to live a holy life that He’ll eventually cast you off? Stephen answers that question with a resounding “No” as he takes us to one of the most beautiful promises in all of Scripture. 

Darkness isn’t the opposite of light; it’s the absence of light. And the Apostle John warns us that those who walk in darkness are proving their absence from Christ. So join Stephen in this message as he helps us better understand the difference between living in darkness and living in the Light.

Darkness isn’t the opposite of light; it’s the absence of light. And the Apostle John warns us that those who walk in darkness are proving their absence from Christ. So join Stephen in this message as he helps us better understand the difference between living in darkness and living in the Light.

If our entire belief system rests on the foundation of Christ’s resurrection from the dead, is there any resounding proof of His resurrection? Stephen gives an emphatic answer as he investigates the claims of an important eye-witness. 

If our entire belief system rests on the foundation of Christ’s resurrection from the dead, is there any resounding proof of His resurrection? Stephen gives an emphatic answer as he investigates the claims of an important eye-witness. 

Be ready. Your pursuit of righteousness may lead some people to admire you, but it will lead many to hate you. The wider your light grows, the more it will expose the darkness in others.

To walk in spirit is to wage 24/7 war with the flesh. Victory for one means defeat for the other. Which will define you today?

If you take one thing from this controversial, confusing section of Peter’s first letter, make sure it is this: Jesus is supreme.

Greater than any philosophical or scientific argument is the aroma of Christ in the life of a believer. Love of neighbor. Joy in suffering. Kindness amidst persecution. These are apologetics the world has no answer for.

Jesus promised gifts like abundant life, peace that passes understanding, and rest for weary hearts, but He never said these would come easy. The paradox of Christian living is that God’s free gifts are only realized when we pursue them at all costs.

The Christian life is not just the forgiven life; it is the forgiving life. If we are not progressing in compassion, we are only going through motions.

“O the depths of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments, and His ways past finding out!” This is the only way Paul could end the eleventh chapter of his letter to the Romans. God is the epicenter of the Gospel, and Paul will make sure that both Jews and Gentiles never forget that.

At one point in time, the loudest voices proclaiming the world is coming to an end were ragged, half-crazed street preachers who wore billboards over their shoulders and screamed at passersby! But nowadays, that message is also being proclaimed on the lips of secular scientists, scholars, and media personnel. No longer is it taboo to say that the earth will one day come to an end. That fact has become “scientific.” The only question that still remains is, “What will our exit strategy be?”

When you see the title, “Gentiles in the Tree,” you immediately think of Zacchaeus, don’t you? But, believe it or not, this sermon isn’t about him. This message is about two diverse branches of people—Israel and the Church—and how God is uniquely grafting them both into that tree called redemption.

Throughout the ages Christianity has inspired many ill feelings in its adversaries, such as hatred, persecution, anger, and contempt. But this seems ordinary enough, given Christ’s promise that “all who desire to live godly in the world will suffer persecution.” In this message, however, Stephen discusses an ill feeling which Christianity is inciting that isn’t quite so ordinary. It’s neither anger nor contempt . . . but envy!

Grace seems too good to be true, doesn’t it? It’s free, it’s eternal, it’s divinely given. Yet these qualities which make it so desirable to some also make it so contemptible to others. That’s because man, by nature, doesn’t like being told he is powerless to save himself. When he arrives at the pearly gates, he would rather pat himself on the back and say, “Look at what I have done,” than fall humbly to his knees before God and say, “Look what You have done!”

Is God finished with the Jewish people? Has He forgotten about the promises He made to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob? The Apostle Paul gives us the profound answer to those questions in Romans chapter 11.

In Romans 10:21 the Apostle Paul invites us to forsake the binding chains of religion and embrace the liberating arms of a relationship.

Both Israel and the Church claim to be the chosen people of God, so who is right? The Apostle Paul gives us the incredible answer.

In Romans 10:15 the Apostle Paul asks the rhetorical question, “How will people hear the Gospel unless we tell them?” They won’t. So let’s tell them. 

There’s room in Heaven for a lot more people so why aren’t we going out and inviting them?

Who is really pulling the strings of world history? The Illuminati? The United Nations? The Devil? Not even close. 

The Gospel is so complex that it will take all of eternity for us to grasp the enormity of it, but it is also so simple that even a child can understand it. So the question is… do you believe it?

If we can somehow earn our way to heaven then what was the point of Christ being slaughtered on the cross?

The Apostle Paul makes is clear that we are all running toward eternity. The question is… are you running in the right direction?

The Apostle Paul invested himself in every city and every church and every person he came across because he realized that people are eternal. Will you do the same?  

The Apostle James gives us a rather surprising warning in James 3:9-12 that our worship won't get past the ceiling if our love for God doesn't flow out into love for others. So join Stephen in this message as he shows us why those two things are so closely intertwined.

Our tongues are potent. If not kept in check, they can devastate entire homes and churches and leave people we love in ruins. So join Stephen now to discover the Apostle John's remedy for our speech problem.

Did you know that the average person speaks between 2,000 and 10,000 words a day? That means we have thousands of opportunities to either turn people toward Christ or turn people away from Him. Which way are you turning them?

Did you know that the average person speaks between 2,000 and 10,000 words a day? That means we have thousands of opportunities to either turn people toward Christ or turn people away from Him. Which way are you turning them?

When Jesus visited the home of two sisters, they each demonstrates faithful, but different acts of service toward Him. As theologians and Christians have read the Gospel of Luke, many criticize Martha and commend Mary for their behavior, but the truth of the matter is much more complex. The reality is both sisters exhibited faithful devotion to Jesus, and both utilized their spiritual gifts, albeit through different expressions of love. There is much to be learned from both Mary and Martha today.

As often happened during Jesus’ teaching ministry, many Jews were looking for a loophole in the Law, while Jesus was getting to the heart of the matter. When a lawyer asked Jesus a question about how to be right with God, Jesus knew that the man wanted to hear that He was already doing the right things. But with His divine perspective, Jesus defined what it means to love God and love others. To this day, Christians are set apart from the world when we follow this teaching.

Jesus commissioned 72 of His disciples to preach the gospel in towns and cities across Israel and God blessed these men with profound spiritual victories. But even in the midst of this mountaintop experience, Jesus had some lessons for His followers to learn—lessons about rejection, faithfulness, and pride. Whether times are good or bad, whether we feel useful in God’s service or stagnant in our walk with God, these truths remain unchanged.

After years of teaching and equipping, Jesus now prepares some of His most faithful disciples to go out and preach the gospel to towns across Israel, proclaiming the coming of the Messiah and performing miracles in His name. But Jesus did not send them without a realistic expectation, a clear focus, and specific instructions for them to complete their mission. He offers the same principles and promises to us as we embark in the mission fields all around us today.

God ordained several divine encounters for Jesus as He walked along the road with His disciples. These encounters come in the form of three men, who either volunteer or are invited by Jesus to follow Him. Their three different responses illuminate three of the primary excuses the Israelites had for not following Jesus. These excuses haven’t changed thousands of years later. We need to be aware of them in our lives today.

The Bible gives us four accounts of Jesus’ life, not just so we can learn the most about Him, but so we can learn the most about His disciples too. In His 12 followers, we see men dedicated to their Lord but constantly falling short, missing the big picture, and struggling to grasp the magnitude of the moment they are living in. Ultimately, they struggle to recognize the magnitude of the Person they are following. This truth is so encouraging to believers today, who also fall short and miss the mark, but continue to strive after Jesus and follow His example. In Luke 9, that example is a demonstration of divine grit and divine grace.

The twelve disciples were given intimacy and closeness to Jesus that no other Christians in history have experienced. We might expect that being in the physical presence of Jesus and hearing His teaching from His own mouth would have transformed these men into "super-Christians." But they suffered from the same struggle with selfishness that is common today. Jesus will confront their self-centerness with the example of a child.

God encourages believers in their walk with Him by giving them spiritual victories in their lives. But many Christians don't understand how easily these victories can be twisted into vices. When we forget where our power comes from, when we are tempted to take the credit for these victories, suddenly God-sufficiency becomes self-sufficiency, and the sin of pride takes over our lives. Jesus' disciples fell into this trap after a successful week of witnessing, and Jesus lovingly reminded them, and us, who ultimately has the power over the kingdom of darkness.

Almost everyone universally accepts the existence of an afterlife. Some cultures use mythology, some adapt from the Bible, others refuse to predict what eternity will be, but still acknowledge that earthly death is not the end. Only a select few human beings--besides Jesus--have been given any meaningful glimpse of what the glory of the eternal kingdom will look like here on earth. And every single one of those people are in this text from the Gospel of Luke.

There are many different aspects of our lives that go into decision-making here on earth. People consider their financial portfolio, their lifestyle and comfort, input from their friends and family, and many other factors. But Jesus is about to challenge His disciples to give up their freedomes and their choices and allow Him to determine their path and their future. He still gives us that same challenge today.

For Jesus' twelve disciples, it was easier to say the right theological truths about Jesus with their mouths than it was for them to believe them in their hearts and lives. After being equipped by God to minister on earth, and after declaring profound theological truths about Jesus, Peter and the disciples will be put to the test by Jesus, who wants to know if their heart-living matches their head-knowledge. Jesus is asking us the same question today.

Jesus gave His disciples supernatural and divine power on earth and commissioned them to go out and exercise that power in Israel. When they returned, the disciples were filled with awe and wonder, not at what Jesus did, but at what they did. Have you ever been tempted to do the same? Well, Jesus is about to give a needed and humbling lesson to these disciples, and to us today: when God works through us, God alone deserves the credit and the glory.

The Great Commission is more than just an abstract concept, it's a practical command for us to obey today. But does he idea of preaching the gospel and witnessing to others sometimes seem to be too daunting for you to do? The disciples felt the same way. After sitting under Jesus' teaching for two years, the disciples are sent out by their Lord to do the work of the kingdom, but Jesus doesn't leave them unprepared. He gives them--and us--a very practical checklist as we make disciples of all the nations.

True manhood is not chauvinistic. True strength is not condescending. True leadership is not tyrannical. Peter reminds us that we will never be leaders in our homes, churches, and societies, if we are not following the example of Christ.

Godly male leadership is becoming a lost art. Gender confusion, love of power, and desire for autonomy have stripped the term manhood of its original, God-designed beauty and meaning. Peter's unchanging message to men in 1 Peter 3:7 is a welcome anchor in this sea of ever-shifting voices.

Godly male leadership is becoming a lost art. Gender confusion, love of power, and desire for autonomy have stripped the term manhood of its original, God-designed beauty and meaning. Peter's unchanging message to men in 1 Peter 3:7 is a welcome anchor in this sea of ever-shifting voices.

Men, do you want to go back to Eden? Do you want the joy of a marital union that honors God and satisfies your desire for companionship, intimacy, and love? Peter shows us the way.

Men, do you want to go back to Eden? Do you want the joy of a marital union that honors God and satisfies your desire for companionship, intimacy, and love? Peter shows us the way.

Was Sarah perfect? No. Did she have seasons of faithlessness and spiritual drought? Yes. But while her biography is marred by moments of failure, her legacy is marked by endurance and faithfulness.

What does God consider beautiful in a woman? What characterizes a woman after God's own heart? Peter takes us back to an Old Testament heroine to bring us the answer.

What does God consider beautiful in a woman? What characterizes a woman after God's own heart? Peter takes us back to an Old Testament heroine to bring us the answer.

Society is loud today. From social media platforms to review sites strong opinions are rampant. Out-yell and out-argue everyone else "that's society's mantra. But God's ideal still resonates above the crowd.

Society is loud today. From social media platforms to review sites strong opinions are rampant. Out-yell and out-argue everyone else "that's society's mantra. But God's ideal still resonates above the crowd.

Feminist messages are flying at women from all angles. Submission? That's weakness. Gentleness? That's insecurity. Humility? That's old fashioned. As culture swings from one pendulum to another, Peter brings us a more radical ideal.

In this message Stephen reminds us that God doesn't just save undeserving people . . . He saves the least deserving!

In this message Stephen reminds us that God doesn't just save undeserving people . . . He saves the least deserving!

When James makes the bold statement that we are not only justified by faith but by works as well, how can we reconcile that with the Apostle Paul's message that salvation is through faith alone? Stephen gives us the answer in this emphatic look at one of history's most debated questions.

The Apostle James takes us beyond the veil of the demonic world to reveal that belief in Christ and believing in Christ are very different things. Join Stephen in this message to discover the difference.

Here's James chapter 2 in a nutshell: faith without works is a faith that doesn't work.

Here's James chapter 2 in a nutshell: faith without works is a faith that doesn't work.

Homosexuality used to be a sin that was only practiced outside the walls of the Church. Today, the homosexual lifestyle is condoned, and homosexuals are even ordained as ministers. But in this lesson from Judges 19-21, Stephen challenges us to forsake the growing voices of culture and go back to God's Word for the answer to what is right and wrong.

The nation of Israel is adrift spiritually and morally. No more judges will appear on the scene to fight or pray or preach. It is no surprise that this book closes with tragic tales of disobedience, superstition, immorality, theft, murder, and eventually Israelite fighting against Israelite. What is the root problem? The same problem we're experiencing today: everyone does what is right in his his own eyes.

When Samson can no longer see physically, he finally sees spiritually. When everything else is stripped away, he finally understands what really matters. What will God have to take away from you in order to let you finally see Him?

In this message Stephen takes us through the journey of Samson's life to warn us that spiritual potential doesn't always lead to spiritual success. It's not what you have that defines you . . . it's what you do with what you have.

Has it ever occurred to you that what you believe determines how you behave? What you believe about God affects everything about you. The decisions you make as well as your attitude in life are impacted by your beliefs. They can be glorious or tragic, as we will discover in the life of Jephthah.

The unbelievable grace of God does not care about heredity. It is not limited by the social, parental, and environmental factors that men consider determinative. If God can use a man like Jephthah . . . and can use you and I as well!

Do you know why God has given us armor to fight with? Because He wants believers to fight! God wants to teach us how to wage spiritual warfare! There is a fundamental principle in this; a timeless truth: God is more interested in developing His people than in displaying His power.

The Old Testament book of Judges is a story of a nation gone mad with sin and rebellion. One generation would serve God, but then the ones that immediately followed turned far from Him. What went wrong? Why didn't the children follow the religion of their parents? Find out now as Stephen begins his study of Israel's judges.

If God really is sovereign and He has promised to meet all our needs, then why do we covet? In this message Stephen reminds us that contentment will be found when we stop asking for more from God and start asking for more of God.

Our tongue has more influence on people than our income, our figure, our face, our wardrobe, our car, and our home combined. Our tongues can mend a marriage or tear it apart. Our tongues can heal a church or destroy it. So how beautiful is your tongue? Find out now as Stephen continues his series, "Down from Sinai."

Stealing is wrong. We know that because it's one of the Ten Commandments. But why is it wrong? What harm does it really do? Why does God hate it so much? That's what we really need to find out.

We are constantly bombarded with images of sexual promiscuity in our modern culture and they come under the title, "sexual expression." But the Bible is clear that sexual sin carries a high price. "Flee youthful lusts," it says . . . and that literally means, "Run for your life!"

The church has sent mixed messages to the world about the issue of abortion. 'Choice' is the buzzword of the day. Stephen indicates that the One who holds that choice should be none other than a sovereign Lord.

What does God mean when He tells us to honor our fathers and mothers? Is this just a rule for kids or is it for adults as well? In this message Stephen explains the 5th commandment and shows us how to obey it practically.

One of the most difficult laws to understand is the one about the Sabbath. God says to "Remember the Sabbath day and keep it holy." But what does He mean, "keep it holy?" Does that law even apply to us today since we meet on Sunday rather than Saturday? In this message Stephen answers those questions for us.  

What does it mean to take the Lord's Name in vain? Is it simply using His name as an expletive or is there a lot more to it? In this message Stephen reveals what the 2nd commandment is really all about . . . and it isn't what you think!  

God takes worship seriously. So if we find ourselves coming before Him frivolously and apathetically, we should take a look back at Exodus 20 and be reminded of how frightening His holiness is. Just because we can now come boldly before Him through the Grace of His Son doesn't mean we should come comfortably.

What is the role of the 10 Commandments in the Church Age? Are we still supposed to abide by them? Haven't they become a little outdated due to advances in technology and shifts in culture? Stephen answers those questions and more in this message.

Moses experienced something that few other men in history have ever experienced: he saw God in person. What must that encounter have been like? In this message Stephen discusses what Moses learned on that Sinai Summit and and what we can learn from it as well.

Meekness is not weakness. It is strength under control. And it also an attribute that God regards very highly. So let's join Stephen in this message as shows us how to be more like Moses and less like the rest of Israel.

What do you do when you get burned out spiritually? It happens to all of us, doesn't it? Moses was one of the greatest leaders the world has seen but even he experienced an emotional breakdown. We can't be immune to it, but we can be ready for it. So let's join Stephen in this message as he tells us how.

Moses is stuck in the wildnerness with thousands of grumbling people. Every time things go wrong he hears something like, "Hey Moses... you should have left us in Egypt! Thanks for nothing!" The Israelites were incredibly ungrateful people, but in this message Stephen shows us why we are just like them.

Israel is trapped between Pharaoh's army and the Red Sea. They are terrified. Had God brought them out here just to kill them? They think they are on the brink of death, but really they are on the brink of deliverance. This will prove Israel's most defining moment in history, so let's join Stephen in this message to witness it together.

Foreshadowing is the literary term for something that happens in a story which points to something that will happen in the future. Exodus 11-12 is an incredible example of this. The Passover points to Jesus' death like few other stories in the Old Testament, so let's join Stephen as he tells us why.

Exodus 7-10 provides the famous story of the showdown between Moses and the Egyptian magicians. At first, every miracle Moses performs is reproduced by the demonic-inspired Egyptians. But not long into this face-off we are faced with the reality that this is no contest at all. God is merely toying with these magicians to teach the Jews and the Egyptians that there is only one God in Egypt . . . and it isn't Pharaoh.

Where would we be without trials? Trials bring us closer to the Savior. They make us rely on Him for strength and wisdom and security. If life was always a walk in the park . . . it wouldn't be a walk of faith.

How did God change Moses from a reluctant, selfish runaway into one of the greatest leaders the world has ever seen? Exodus 3:4-17 tells us.

Maybe you find yourself in a spiritual desert of guilt and unhappiness, failure and weakness, with seemingly no relief in sight. Have you ever considered that God might have brought you there for a reason? God took Moses into the wilderness for 40 years before using him to rescue the Jewish people from Egypt. How long are you willing to stay there?

It's only natural for us to want what we want, when we want it. But part of submitting to God's authority in our lives means giving up control of our Day Timers! When Moses took matters into his own hands it brought about disastrous results. He was forty years ahead of God! Who's timetable are you working on?

Moses was the most important figure in Jewish history. Not only did God use him to deliver the Jews from Egypt, but God used Moses as a mediator between Him and His people. But before Moses was talking to burning bushes and delivering stone tablets, he was a helpless baby in a floating crib. His mother's faith and courage saved his life.

If someone we were to ask you what books of the Bible you have read recently, I bet Exodus wouldn't make the list. It's difficult to understand, right? It's a little slow at times. But in this message Stephen helps us understand the book in an entirely new light. Your view of Exodus will never be the same again.

The old saying goes, 'There are two things that are certain in life: death and taxes.' I would add the Judgment of God to that list as well. Most people don't like to talk or think about God's judgment, but it's best we consider it now before it's too late. 

When life deals us a painful blow, we're often tempted to strike back, aren't we? It goes against our nature to weather the storms of life silently. But that's exactly what God wants us to do sometimes. Obedience is learned through patience, and patience is only born through trials. 

Suppose you discovered a fountain of youth and it had the power to make you youthful and beautiful forever! What would you do? Would you give the water to your friends? Would you share it with the needy and sick? Or would you hide it and keep its power only for yourself? The Gospel is a fountain of living water . . . are we sharing it with others? 

Do you think your problems are too small to be noticed by a God who rules over the vast affairs of nations? Do you think your concerns are flying under God's radar? Well this message will cause you to think again!

Greed dominates our world today. From the advertisements of Madison Avenue to the profit-grabbing of Wall Street, the love of money is all around us. But greed isn't new. it's an epidemic as old as humanity itself. There is a cure, however . . . if you're willing to accept it.

The diagnosis for sin is not good. It's terminal. But there is a cure. In this message, an Old Testament leper receives it once and for all. Will you?

There are two lepers in 2 Kings 5 and both teach us something different about God. One teaches us that God is gracious and forgiving when we repent; the other teaches us just how serious God is about integrity. Let's join Stephen in this message as he introduces us to both men.

Have you ever wondered what it takes to survive impossible situations? To hold on to hope when all seems hopeless? Many of us have had days, even weeks, when the way forward seemed bleak and we just weren't sure how to press on. We can take heart from this study of the life of Elisha. He lived what seemed to be an impossible life . . . because with God all things are possible.

Though tough times are by their nature unpleasant, they are designed by God to develop trust. We see in the life of Elisha that those who are willing to trust eventually see God's power revealed. Just because our hands are tied doesn't mean our hearts have to be.

Jesus said that all the Law and the Prophets can be summed up in on law: love the Lord with all your heart and love your neighbor as yourself. Are you obeying the Law of Love?

Jesus said that all the Law and the Prophets can be summed up in on law: love the Lord with all your heart and love your neighbor as yourself. Are you obeying the Law of Love?

Next time you step through the doors of your local church, throw your prejudices and stereotypes and self-righteousness outside. When you leave, don't pick them back up.

Next time you step through the doors of your local church, throw your prejudices and stereotypes and self-righteousness outside. When you leave, don't pick them back up.

Revelation 20:14-15 might be the most tragic passage in all of Scripture--the Apostle John gives us a graphic look at that place called hell.

Revelation 20:14-15 might be the most tragic passage in all of Scripture--the Apostle John gives us a graphic look at that place called hell.

In God's courtroom, He will preside as judge, jury, eyewitness, and prosecuting attorney--and there will be no deliberation. The verdict for every unbeliever will be the same: "Guilty!"

In God's courtroom, He will preside as judge, jury, eyewitness, and prosecuting attorney--and there will be no deliberation. The verdict for every unbeliever will be the same: "Guilty!"

Carpe diem! Live it up! Phrases like these sum up the prevailing philosophy of our age. But as society leads us to believe that we have finally moved past the idea of Judgment Day, Scripture tells us that we are moving closer to it.

Carpe diem! Live it up! Phrases like these sum up the prevailing philosophy of our age. But as society leads us to believe that we have finally moved past the idea of Judgment Day, Scripture tells us that we are moving closer to it.

The story of Ruth and Boaz ends like any good love story should: happily ever after. But there is so much more in this last chapter than two love-birds riding off into the sunset. What we discover in the last few verses is that from Ruth and Boaz's bloodline would come King David . . . and from him would later come Jesus Christ!

The romance between Ruth and Boaz is hanging in the balance. Boaz is bursting at the seams with love for Ruth, but she might be just out of his reach. A man is now standing in the way of their happy ever after. What will happen? Find out now.

Waiting for love can be excruciating! Have you ever been there? You think you know what you want; you think you know what God's will is for your life, but there is nothing more you can do to accomplish it. All you can do is sit and wait! That's where Ruth finds herself in this message, so let's join Stephen now as he teaches us a valuable lesson about patience.

Folded into the layers of romance between Ruth and Boaz is some extremely practical advice on why anyone should ever say yes to a wedding proposal. Stephen explores seven qualities that should be on every single girl's and guy's wish list.  And for the married, these are seven qualities to never stop pursuing!

Folded into the layers of romance between Ruth and Boaz is some extremely practical advice on why anyone should ever say yes to a wedding proposal. Stephen explores seven qualities that should be on every single girl's and guy's wish list.  And for the married, these are seven qualities to never stop pursuing!

The story of Ruth and Boaz is one of the greatest love stories ever written, not just because the plot, characters nd script are so wonderfully and Divinely crafted, but because the story as a whole gives us a real-life image of God's love for mankind.

The story of Ruth and Boaz is one of the greatest love stories ever written, not just because the plot, characters nd script are so wonderfully and Divinely crafted, but because the story as a whole gives us a real-life image of God's love for mankind.

Sometimes following God's will doesn't seem to produce immediate blessings. For Ruth, it meant leaving behind her family and friends and trying to scrape a living in a foreign country. But as she gleaned in the fields of distant relative day after day, she soon realized she was gleaning in the fields of grace.

Ruth didn't just happen to stumble onto a field one day that belonged to a close relative. And Boaz didn't just happen to notice her gleaning and fall in love with her. Nothing just happens! God wrote Ruth and Boaz' story . . . and He has written yours as well!

Ruth didn't just happen to stumble onto a field one day that belonged to a close relative. And Boaz didn't just happen to notice her gleaning and fall in love with her. Nothing just happens! God wrote Ruth and Boaz' story . . . and He has written yours as well!

Three different widows in Ruth chapter 1 are about to walk three different paths, and contrary to popular belief all paths will not lead to God. Find out which one does in this message.

As humans, our default action when things aren't going well is to up and leave. If there's strife in the Church, we go find another one. If we're not happy in our marriage, we get divorced. If a friend let's us down, we let them go. The "greener grass" syndrome infects us all. Contentment doesn't come naturally or easily . . . but like all precious things, it's worth working for.

Every good fairytale begins with that classic line, "Once upon a time," and is followed by lines describing a bleak context. Esther's story is no exception. But what's so great about this story is that it really happened!

This study of Revelation has covered 50 pages of transcript and two chapters of John's prophetic vision. If you need a brief summary of everything that has been covered so far, here it is!

This study of Revelation has covered 50 pages of transcript and two chapters of John's prophetic vision. If you need a brief summary of everything that has been covered so far, here it is!

Many people reject God today because of the problem of evil. They say they can't believe in a God who allows suffering and evil throughout the world. But what will be their excuse when God sets the world right?

Many people reject God today because of the problem of evil. They say they can't believe in a God who allows suffering and evil throughout the world. But what will be their excuse when God sets the world right?

Joy is coming again to the world but not in the form of a humble Babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And this time . . . it's not coming quietly.

Joy is coming again to the world but not in the form of a humble Babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And this time . . . it's not coming quietly.

The pen may be mightier than the sword, but even it has failed to usher in a Golden Age for mankind. Plato's Republic couldn't revolutionize the Ancient world, and Thomas Moore's Utopia couldn't revolutionize his Medieval world. Words on a page can't produce Eden.

The pen may be mightier than the sword, but even it has failed to usher in a Golden Age for mankind. Plato's Republic couldn't revolutionize the Ancient world, and Thomas Moore's Utopia couldn't revolutionize his Medieval world. Words on a page can't produce Eden.

Some would have us believe that behind the curtain of world history there is an ongoing battle between God and the devil, and the devil is giving God a pretty good fight! But one look at Revelation 19 and that misconception is silenced forever.

At His first coming, Jesus played the role of a servant as He humbly died for the sins of humanity. At His second coming, He will play a very different role.

At His first coming, Jesus played the role of a servant as He humbly died for the sins of humanity. At His second coming, He will play a very different role.

In Revelation 2, Christ commends the church at Ephesus for their pure theology and their love for sound doctrine, but He condemns them for losing sight of their first love. So if Jesus isn't the reason we're studying Revelation, we're studying in vain.

In Revelation 2, Christ commends the church at Ephesus for their pure theology and their love for sound doctrine, but He condemns them for losing sight of their first love. So if Jesus isn't the reason we're studying Revelation, we're studying in vain.

What will the world be like when everyone sees that Jesus is Lord? Imagine!

What will the world be like when everyone sees that Jesus is Lord? Imagine!

The biblical prophets are clear on the fact that the Messiah will set up His kingdom on earth and finally bring peace to the world, but they are also clear that many things have to happen before He does. Find out now what they are.

The biblical prophets are clear on the fact that the Messiah will set up His kingdom on earth and finally bring peace to the world, but they are also clear that many things have to happen before He does. Find out now what they are.

What are you most afraid of in this world? Christ has conquered it. What consistently knocks you down? Christ has overcome it. What accusation does the enemy keep whispering in your ear? Christ has forgiven it. That's the gospel. That's the truth that grips us every second of our lives.

Paul has been accused at times of being heady and analytical in his writings. In certain discussions of theological matters, he can seem too systematic and cold. But not so in this passage. Paul turns poetic as the vibrant, colorful images of Christ's love dance across the pages from his heart to ours.

There is no devil cunning enough and no accuser credible enough to convince God to change His verdict of innocence over us. If the Judge Himself stands in our defense, who can stand against us?

The principle of predestination which Paul so passionately describes in Romans 8:29-30 is not a negative principle but a positive one. Paul isn't crippling our freedom of will; he is giving it wings to fly even higher.

We hate interruptions in life, don’t we? A coworker interrupts our preparation, our children interrupt a moment of quiet, life interrupts our time constantly. Jesus too faced interruptions during his ministry, but He often turned these seeming distractions into divine opportunities. Stephen Davey takes us to the streets of Israel, where Jesus is on a mission, but a divinely appointed interruption is just around the corner.

There certainly is no worse condition for a person than having their body taken over by a legion of demons. It is hard to imagine a demon-possessed man being of any use to Jesus during His earthly ministry. But as Jesus sails toward a deranged, demon-possessed man, He will reveal not only His total power over the spiritual realm, but also His ability to use anyone, regardless of their past, for His purposes.

When Jesus essentially asked his followers, “Are you listening to me?”, He was serious. And to prove His point, Jesus gives his disciples a test. Will they still trust Jesus when hope seems lost, and Jesus is asleep? If you’ve ever felt like Jesus is sleeping when you’re struggling, if you’ve ever found your faith lacking, take heart from two lessons we learn from Jesus on the Sea of Galilee.

Most people can relate to the experience of being listened to, but not really heard. Listening to the words and comprehending the meaning are two very different things. Did you know that Jesus also was heard without being understood? And so, as He gives a sermon to His largest audience during His earthly ministry, He continually returns to the same theme: “Do you really hear me?”

Most Christians can name some, if not all, of Jesus’ 12 disciples. Far fewer know who Joanna, or Susanna are, or what they did in Jesus’ ministry. But as chapter 8 of Luke opens, we see several examples of women, representing far more anonymous servants, who faithfully followed and served Jesus throughout His earthly ministry. From these three brief biographies, we can learn several valuable lessons about our own service to Christ.

Jesus has just been invited to the home of a prominent religious leader in first-century Israel, but someone else is on His mind. Sitting among the VIPs and honored guests of Simon the Pharisee, an uninvited and thoroughly unwanted woman shows up, a local town prostitute, and all eyes turn to Jesus, to see how He will respond. His response is an awesome example of God’s grace, and a powerful reminder that all sin, great and small, comes with the same judgement and requires the same cure.

As Jesus continues His earthly ministry, He is visited by representatives from his cousin—John the Baptist—who is unsure if Jesus really is the Messiah. Even though John the Baptist was commissioned to prepare the way for Jesus as the Messiah, even he has doubts about Jesus. Watch as Jesus acknowledges his doubts, confirms His identity as Savior, and promises to be a help in time of trouble. He is still that help for us today.

So far in this series, we have seen Jesus exercise miraculous power over nature, sickness, disease, and demons. But what about death itself? In this stunning display of His divine authority, Jesus demonstrates His power over death and, in the process, gives us—those who believe in Him—a preview of our eternal life to come.

Jesus is about to make a significant turn in His ministry, as He extends the promise of salvation beyond the Jewish community and speaks directly to Gentiles. In Jesus' interaction with a Roman centurion, the expression of faith in Jesus and miraculous healing are no different than what Jesus has previously done in Jewish communities. His promise of salvation is for all the earth.

Perhaps His most familiar name is "The Comforter," but the Holy Spirit does so much more for the believer than just ease our sorrows. In this in-depth study Stephen gives us incredible insight into the most mysterious member of the Godhead.

Jesus' disciples were a curious bunch who asked a lot of questions. And it's good they did too, because if they hadn't asked some of the questions back then, we might not have the answers today. So join Stephen in this message as he examines some of the most troubling questions before giving us the timeless answers.

Jesus said, "I am the Way, the Truth and the Life . . . no man comes to the Father but through Me." Truth, by its very nature, is exclusive. Forget what the bestselling books and secular professors told you about Jesus. Listen to what Jesus says about Himself . . . and then choose what you will do with it.

Our age has been called the 'age of anxiety.' Pessimism has clouded everything. The plaintive cry of society is best summed up by the one who wrote, 'I have seen the future, and it doesn't work.' The disciples didn't think it was working for them either, but it did. And it can for you , too, if you have Heaven guaranteed!

Perhaps no verse in Scripture is taken out of context more than Romans 8:28. In that verse, Paul says that "all things work together for good to them that love God," and people take that to mean a lot of things it doesn't mean. So in this message Stephen reminds us of the real meaning and power behind this promise from God.

Perhaps no verse in Scripture is taken out of context more than Romans 8:28. In that verse, Paul says that "all things work together for good to them that love God," and people take that to mean a lot of things it doesn't mean. So in this message Stephen reminds us of the real meaning and power behind this promise from God.

Have you ever tried to pray but words just wouldn't come out? Maybe your mind was racing in all directions and you couldn't focus on Christ; perhaps the weight of some trial rendered you unable to articulate your feelings. Did you know that during that time the Holy Spirit was actually praying for you? As incredible as it sounds, Stephen shows us from Romans 8:26-27 that prayer is more than a conversation between God and us.

In Romans 8:23-25 we learn that the Apostle Paul was a restless man.

If the condition of our world could be summarized in a single word, that word would be 'broken.' Beneath the drumming sound of a rushing waterfall and the trill of a nightingale's song is an inaudible cry of desperation. Every part of creation feels it.

In Romans 8, verses 16-17, the apostle Paul writes this: “The  Spirit  Himself  testifies  with  our  spirit that we are children of God,  and if children, heirs also, heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ.” Isn’t that an amazing thought? You are the recipient of an inheritance that God has prepared. So the question then becomes, what have you inherited? Would you like to know?

Imagine a sheep trying to live in the wild without a shepherd. Picture it standing alone in the forest: lost, wandering, defenseless and blind to all surrounding dangers. That is a picture of us apart from Christ.

The wounds of Jesus provide the most difficult paradox of Christian theology: namely, the marriage between God's holiness and man's savagery. But beyond the infinite complexities lies this simple reality: by His wounds we have been healed.

For us, the Christian life isn't just difficult or severe or extremely taxing; it is impossible. That's why we're not called to just mimic Christ, but to surrender to Him.

Rebel! Resist! Revolt! These are society's responses to unjust leaders, but should they be ours as well?  

Rebel! Resist! Revolt! These are society's responses to unjust leaders, but should they be ours as well?  

Our idea of freedom today is often individualistic and autonomous from other people's ideas, values, and problems. Peter had a counter-cultural message that true freedom comes only through community.

Our idea of freedom today is often individualistic and autonomous from other people's ideas, values, and problems. Peter had a counter-cultural message that true freedom comes only through community.

The only apologetic that unbelievers cannot deny is the life of Christ emerging through a surrendered Christian.

The only apologetic that unbelievers cannot deny is the life of Christ emerging through a surrendered Christian.

We sometimes make the mistake of thinking that Paul had all the answers to life's questions. We think he always knew where God wanted him to go next, and that he had the Christian life all figured out. But thankfully, Paul himself tells us the opposite. Today Stephen reminds us that remarkable Christians need the grace of God as much as everyone else.  

We sometimes make the mistake of thinking that Paul had all the answers to life's questions. We think he always knew where God wanted him to go next, and that he had the Christian life all figured out. But thankfully, Paul himself tells us the opposite. Today Stephen reminds us that remarkable Christians need the grace of God as much as everyone else.  

In Titus 3, the Apostle Paul gives an interesting command to Titus to warn a divisive person twice and, then, if he or she still doesn't repent, break fellowship with them. This is a harsh punishment. What is Paul referring to as 'divisive'? Is it bickering and quarreling between church members or something more? Pastor Stephen Davey tells us in part one of his message 'Warning: Two Strikes and You're Out.'  

In Titus 3, the Apostle Paul gives an interesting command to Titus to warn a divisive person twice and, then, if he or she still doesn't repent, break fellowship with them. This is a harsh punishment. What is Paul referring to as 'divisive'? Is it bickering and quarreling between church members or something more? Pastor Stephen Davey tells us in part one of his message 'Warning: Two Strikes and You're Out.'  

One of the greatest criticisms of Christianity unbelievers have is a legitimate one: the Church is so divided.

One of the greatest criticisms of Christianity unbelievers have is a legitimate one: the Church is so divided.

Not many people in our culture are taking time to read the Bible or get their facts straight about who Christ is. What they hear in the media and in secular classrooms is sometimes the extent of their education. So in the message 'Bringing God to Life,' Stephen reminds us that it is our responsibility

Not many people in our culture are taking time to read the Bible or get their facts straight about who Christ is. What they hear in the media and in secular classrooms is sometimes the extent of their education. So in the message 'Bringing God to Life,' Stephen reminds us that it is our responsibility

Have you ever considered the fact that while goodness is a gift from God, He doesn't merely hand it to us like a check in the mail or a present at Christmas. No! He ambushes us with it! Like a sudden rainstorm in the desert, God lavishes His goodness on us through Christ Jesus in ways we can only begin to fathom.

Have you ever considered the fact that while goodness is a gift from God, He doesn't merely hand it to us like a check in the mail or a present at Christmas. No! He ambushes us with it! Like a sudden rainstorm in the desert, God lavishes His goodness on us through Christ Jesus in ways we can only begin to fathom.

Can you imagine where you would be today if Jesus hadn't reached down and saved your life? What would you be using to fill the emptiness in your soul? In this message 'Remember!' Stephen challenges us to take a step back and really consider who we've become since our conversion. Worship will occur when we realize that Christ didn't just save us in the past . . . He's saving us still.

Can you imagine where you would be today if Jesus hadn't reached down and saved your life? What would you be using to fill the emptiness in your soul? In this message 'Remember!' Stephen challenges us to take a step back and really consider who we've become since our conversion. Worship will occur when we realize that Christ didn't just save us in the past . . . He's saving us still.

Those in authority are gifts from God that we'd probably give back if we could. Whether it's a boss or a policeman, a church leader or a family member, there is probably someone in your life you find it hard to submit to. In this series 'Remarkable Christianity,' Stephen shows us from Paul's letter to Titus why submission to authority is a testimony the world finds hard to ignore.

Those in authority are gifts from God that we'd probably give back if we could. Whether it's a boss or a policeman, a church leader or a family member, there is probably someone in your life you find it hard to submit to. In this series 'Remarkable Christianity,' Stephen shows us from Paul's letter to Titus why submission to authority is a testimony the world finds hard to ignore.

Through the course of life, all people decide what kind of foundation they want to build their reputation, their actions, their lives upon. Jesus commands His followers to build their lives on the foundation of His inspired Word, rather than the sandy, uneven, shifting foundations of the world. For those of us who follow Jesus, our foundation is the unmovable, unshakable, unchanging foundation of both the Person and the preaching of our Lord.

In our lives, we will often be tempted to put on various masks: one for work, another for home, a different one for our social interactions. As believers, we can even find ourselves going to church with a mask on, hiding our own issues and focusing on the problems of others. But Jesus encouraged His true disciples to examine their own lives honestly and thoroughly for sin.

A cultural buzzword you will often hear is the word tolerance. In secular society, and even in some Christian denominations, tolerance is promoted as virtue. After all, didn't Jesus tell His followers not to judge? But by thoroughly studying this text, Jesus makes clear to his disciples that godly judgment

Early in His ministry, those who followed Jesus had expectations for Him. They expected their messiah to wage war against Rome, free Israel, and brings God's kingdom to earth during their lifetime. But Jesus had different intentions, and He challenged His followers to conform to His will, not try to make Him conform to theirs. Jesus' sermon on the mount, transcribed in Luke's Gospel, will be just as difficult and challenging for us today as it was for the Jewish patriots and nationalists in Jesus' audience.

Early in His ministry, those who followed Jesus had expectations for Him. They expected their messiah to wage war against Rome, free Israel, and brings God's kingdom to earth during their lifetime. But Jesus had different intentions, and He challenged His followers to conform to His will, not try to make Him conform to theirs. Jesus' sermon on the mount, transcribed in Luke's Gospel, will be just as difficult and challenging for us today as it was for the Jewish patriots and nationalists in Jesus' audience.

Where does happiness come from? What is the root of satisfaction? As Jesus compares and contrasts those who are supremely happy with those who are eternally empty, His reminder of where hope and joy come from is just as important today as it was 2,000 years ago.

As Jesus called His followers and prepared them for ministry, he did not sugar-coat the realities of what it meant to follow Him. He didn't exaggerate the benefits of following Him, while ignoring the consequences. He was honest about what following Him would mean. Through our commitment to declare Jesus as Lord, we commit ourselves to earthly trials and eternal rewards.

Jesus has chosen his 12 closest followers, and now he begins to teach the multitudes, proclaiming the kingdom of God. Even though Jesus chose an exclusive group of inner friends, His teaching, His miracles, and His ministry were given freely to thousands of people who came to see Him. And his invitation is just as open today as it was then.

The last words of a godly man are sometimes his most memorable, and that is true for David. In spite of the spiritual failures that haunted his household and kingdom for the latter years of his reign, his prayer to God in 1 Chronicles 29 reveals that underneath the wrinkled skin and tattered crown there was still a heart beating fast for God.

The last words of a godly man are sometimes his most memorable, and that is true for David. In spite of the spiritual failures that haunted his household and kingdom for the latter years of his reign, his prayer to God in 1 Chronicles 29 reveals that underneath the wrinkled skin and tattered crown there was still a heart beating fast for God.

What happens to babies who are aborted or stillborn? What happens to toddlers that die before they ever even speak a word? God doesn't tell us specifically, but He does give us a significant thought to ponder in 2 Samuel 12.

What happens to babies who are aborted or stillborn? What happens to toddlers that die before they ever even speak a word? God doesn't tell us specifically, but He does give us a significant thought to ponder in 2 Samuel 12.

Repentance doesn't say, "I'm sorry", and move on. It doesn't use words like "I fell into temptation" or "I messed up again" or "boys will be boys." It grieves. It weeps. It tells the truth.

Being exposed is perhaps the most painful, yet beautiful experience in a prodigal's life. Though the humiliation feels excruciating, the pain is a sign that life has begun anew.

Being exposed is perhaps the most painful, yet beautiful experience in a prodigal's life. Though the humiliation feels excruciating, the pain is a sign that life has begun anew.

There are two types of sinners in the world: those who confess, and those who cover up. Only the first receives healing and restoration. LINKS: Visit our website: https://www.wisdomonline.org Make a donation: https://www.wisdomonline.org/donate Free ebook: https://www.wisdomonline.org/offer Free issue of our magazine: https://www.wisdomonline.org/magazine

There are two types of sinners in the world: those who confess, and those who cover up. Only the first receives healing and restoration.  

Adultery doesn't just happen in a moment. It is born from a lustful mind that is allowed to go unchecked over time. LINKS: Visit our website: https://www.wisdomonline.org Make a donation: https://www.wisdomonline.org/donate Free ebook: https://www.wisdomonline.org/offer Free issue of our magazine: https://www.wisdomonline.org/magazine

Adultery doesn't just happen in a moment. It is born from a lustful mind that is allowed to go unchecked over time. LINKS: Visit our website: https://www.wisdomonline.org Make a donation: https://www.wisdomonline.org/donate Free ebook: https://www.wisdomonline.org/offer Free issue of our magazine: https://www.wisdomonline.org/magazine

The last words Martin Luther ever penned were these: "We are beggars; that is true." 2 Samuel 9 reminds us of this truth as it paints a vivid portrait of God's grace to undeserving people. LINKS: Visit our website: https://www.wisdomonline.org Make a donation: https://www.wisdomonline.org/donate Free ebook: https://www.wisdomonline.org/offer Free issue of our magazine: https://www.wisdomonline.org/magazine

The last words Martin Luther ever penned were these: "We are beggars; that is true." 2 Samuel 9 reminds us of this truth as it paints a vivid portrait of God's grace to undeserving people. LINKS: Visit our website: https://www.wisdomonline.org Make a donation: https://www.wisdomonline.org/donate Free ebook: https://www.wisdomonline.org/offer Free issue of our magazine: https://www.wisdomonline.org/magazine

David didn't lie in bed every night dreaming of the next giant he would kill or the next battle he would win. He dreamed of building a temple for God. He was a singer, a prophet, a hero, and a king, but what he really wanted to be was an architect. So what can we learn from his severe disappointment at being told no? LINKS: Visit our website: https://www.wisdomonline.org Make a donation: https://www.wisdomonline.org/donate Free ebook: https://www.wisdomonline.org/offer Free issue of our magazine: https://www.wisdomonline.org/magazine

David didn't lie in bed every night dreaming of the next giant he would kill or the next battle he would win. He dreamed of building a temple for God. He was a singer, a prophet, a hero, and a king, but what he really wanted to be was an architect. So what can we learn from his severe disappointment at being told no? LINKS: Visit our website: https://www.wisdomonline.org Make a donation: https://www.wisdomonline.org/donate Free ebook: https://www.wisdomonline.org/offer Free issue of our magazine: https://www.wisdomonline.org/magazine

One of the saddest sights in the world is to see a once-great man or woman of faith decline into spiritual apathy and moral decay. But it serves as a stark warning to us that our legacy is not determined by how we start the race . . . but how we finish it. LINKS: Visit our website: https://www.wisdomonline.org Make a donation: https://www.wisdomonline.org/donate Free ebook: https://www.wisdomonline.org/offer Free issue of our magazine: https://www.wisdomonline.org/magazine

One of the saddest sights in the world is to see a once-great man or woman of faith decline into spiritual apathy and moral decay. But it serves as a stark warning to us that our legacy is not determined by how we start the race . . . but how we finish it. LINKS: Visit our website: https://www.wisdomonline.org Make a donation: https://www.wisdomonline.org/donate Free ebook: https://www.wisdomonline.org/offer Free issue of our magazine: https://www.wisdomonline.org/magazine

The singer is about to forget his song. LINKS: Visit our website: https://www.wisdomonline.org Make a donation: https://www.wisdomonline.org/donate Free ebook: https://www.wisdomonline.org/offer Free issue of our magazine: https://www.wisdomonline.org/magazine

The singer is about to forget his song. LINKS: Visit our website: https://www.wisdomonline.org Make a donation: https://www.wisdomonline.org/donate Free ebook: https://www.wisdomonline.org/offer Free issue of our magazine: https://www.wisdomonline.org/magazine

What happened to the humble and meek David we saw in 1 Samuel 1-24? The man who forgave Saul for throwing a spear at his head, giving his betrothed to another, and exiling him for years, is about to murder a stranger over idle words! Even the mighty can fall in a moment. LINKS: Visit our website: https://www.wisdomonline.org Make a donation: https://www.wisdomonline.org/donate Free ebook: https://www.wisdomonline.org/offer Free issue of our magazine: https://www.wisdomonline.org/magazine

What happened to the humble and meek David we saw in 1 Samuel 1-24? The man who forgave Saul for throwing a spear at his head, giving his betrothed to another, and exiling him for years, is about to murder a stranger over idle words! Even the mighty can fall in a moment. LINKS: Visit our website: https://www.wisdomonline.org Make a donation: https://www.wisdomonline.org/donate Free ebook: https://www.wisdomonline.org/offer Free issue of our magazine: https://www.wisdomonline.org/magazine

There is a game of cat and mouse being played in 1 Samuel 23-24, and it isn't between Saul and David; it's between God and Saul. God has been hounding Saul at every turn, and now He will give him one last chance to surrender. LINKS: Visit our website: https://www.wisdomonline.org Make a donation: https://www.wisdomonline.org/donate Free ebook: https://www.wisdomonline.org/offer Free issue of our magazine: https://www.wisdomonline.org/magazine

There is a game of cat and mouse being played in 1 Samuel 23-24, and it isn't between Saul and David; it's between God and Saul. God has been hounding Saul at every turn, and now He will give him one last chance to surrender. LINKS: Visit our website: https://www.wisdomonline.org Make a donation: https://www.wisdomonline.org/donate Free ebook: https://www.wisdomonline.org/offer Free issue of our magazine: https://www.wisdomonline.org/magazine

When the cave is at its darkest, all you need is a spark. LINKS: Visit our website: https://www.wisdomonline.org Make a donation: https://www.wisdomonline.org/donate Free ebook: https://www.wisdomonline.org/offer Free issue of our magazine: https://www.wisdomonline.org/magazine

Having integrity is like possessing a priceless gem. But be ready to live life on the run. LINKS: Visit our website: https://www.wisdomonline.org Make a donation: https://www.wisdomonline.org/donate Free ebook: https://www.wisdomonline.org/offer Free issue of our magazine: https://www.wisdomonline.org/magazine

Having integrity is like possessing a priceless gem. But be ready to live life on the run. LINKS: Visit our website: https://www.wisdomonline.org Make a donation: https://www.wisdomonline.org/donate Free ebook: https://www.wisdomonline.org/offer Free issue of our magazine: https://www.wisdomonline.org/magazine

Saul deceives David, openly resents him, and even uses his head for target practice! So why does David continually give him the benefit of the doubt? LINKS: Visit our website: https://www.wisdomonline.org Make a donation: https://www.wisdomonline.org/donate Free ebook: https://www.wisdomonline.org/offer Free issue of our magazine: https://www.wisdomonline.org/magazine

Saul deceives David, openly resents him, and even uses his head for target practice! So why does David continually give him the benefit of the doubt? LINKS: Visit our website: https://www.wisdomonline.org Make a donation: https://www.wisdomonline.org/donate Free ebook: https://www.wisdomonline.org/offer Free issue of our magazine: https://www.wisdomonline.org/magazine

There is only one giant on the battlefield in 1 Samuel chapter 17, and his name isn't Goliath; it's David. In this unforgettable encounter, David reminds us why great faith in a great God leads to great victory. LINKS: Visit our website: https://www.wisdomonline.org Make a donation: https://www.wisdomonline.org/donate Free ebook: https://www.wisdomonline.org/offer Free issue of our magazine: https://www.wisdomonline.org/magazine

There is only one giant on the battlefield in 1 Samuel chapter 17, and his name isn't Goliath; it's David. In this unforgettable encounter, David reminds us why great faith in a great God leads to great victory. LINKS: Visit our website: https://www.wisdomonline.org Make a donation: https://www.wisdomonline.org/donate Free ebook: https://www.wisdomonline.org/offer Free issue of our magazine: https://www.wisdomonline.org/magazine

Set aside everything you know about David's latter years and look at this anonymous, young shepherd boy through Samuel's eyes. Before the giant-killing, prophesying, and Temple designing, David was an unlikely king. LINKS: Visit our website: https://www.wisdomonline.org Make a donation: https://www.wisdomonline.org/donate Free ebook: https://www.wisdomonline.org/offer Free issue of our magazine: https://www.wisdomonline.org/magazine

What did God give up in order to become a man? What rights did He set aside for our sake? The answer is as humbling as it is amazing. LINKS: Visit our website: https://www.wisdomonline.org Make a donation: https://www.wisdomonline.org/donate Free ebook: https://www.wisdomonline.org/offer Free issue of our magazine: https://www.wisdomonline.org/magazine

To many people, Christmas is just another day off work or a reason to party and exchange gifts. What is Christmas to you? LINKS: Visit our website: https://www.wisdomonline.org Make a donation: https://www.wisdomonline.org/donate Free ebook: https://www.wisdomonline.org/offer Free issue of our magazine: https://www.wisdomonline.org/magazine

It is hard to believe that all the natural disasters, diseases, and cruelty in the world are a direct result of two people eating a piece of fruit, isn't it? But in this message, Stephen reminds us that the crime committed in Eden was far more devastating. LINKS: Visit our website: https://www.wisdomonline.org Make a donation: https://www.wisdomonline.org/donate Free ebook: https://www.wisdomonline.org/offer Free issue of our magazine: https://www.wisdomonline.org/magazine

With magical pen in hand, C.S. Lewis crafted a beautiful tale filled with mystical places, talking animals, and fierce battles in a land called Narnia. Lewis wrote, 'The whole story of Narnia is the story about Christ.' In this message, Stephen explores Lewis' beloved allegory and reveals why it is such a timeless illustration of the Gospel. LINKS: Visit our website: https://www.wisdomonline.org Make a donation: https://www.wisdomonline.org/donate Free ebook: https://www.wisdomonline.org/offer Free issue of our magazine: https://www.wisdomonline.org/magazine

How is it that no man can see God's face and yet people saw Christ? This is the paradox of the incarnation. Although we can perceive the mystery, it will take all of eternity for us to understand it. LINKS: Visit our website: https://www.wisdomonline.org Make a donation: https://www.wisdomonline.org/donate Free ebook: https://www.wisdomonline.org/offer Free issue of our magazine: https://www.wisdomonline.org/magazine

How is it that no man can see God's face and yet people saw Christ? This is the paradox of the incarnation. Although we can perceive the mystery, it will take all of eternity for us to understand it. LINKS: Visit our website: https://www.wisdomonline.org Make a donation: https://www.wisdomonline.org/donate Free ebook: https://www.wisdomonline.org/offer Free issue of our magazine: https://www.wisdomonline.org/magazine

Genealogies are often a bore to sift through, but that isn't the case with Christ's genealogy. The deeper we delve into the names which comprise that divinely orchestrated list, the more we understand the nature of God's tremendous grace. LINKS: Visit our website: https://www.wisdomonline.org Make a donation: https://www.wisdomonline.org/donate Free ebook: https://www.wisdomonline.org/offer Free issue of our magazine: https://www.wisdomonline.org/magazine

Genealogies are often a bore to sift through, but that isn't the case with Christ's genealogy. The deeper we delve into the names which comprise that divinely orchestrated list, the more we understand the nature of God's tremendous grace. LINKS: Visit our website: https://www.wisdomonline.org Make a donation: https://www.wisdomonline.org/donate Free ebook: https://www.wisdomonline.org/offer Free issue of our magazine: https://www.wisdomonline.org/magazine

Is Jesus really God? Look at Isaiah 9:6. Is Jesus going to rule the world one day? Look at Isaiah 9:6. Will Jesus soon receive worship from every man? Look at Isaiah 9:6. Truly, this is the prophecy of all prophecies.

Luke's gospel gives us a glimpse into the role angels played in the Christmas story as well as the role they play in the Gospel story. So if you've ever found yourself questioning how and why God uses these mysterious and invisible creatures, find out now.

Some people today are skeptical of angels; others are a bit too infatuated with them. All in all, few people seem to have a clue who they really are and what their purpose is. Angels are very important to the Gospel, however, and that's why Luke speaks of them often in his account. Let's see what he has to say about them.

The Apostle Paul says that we have been adopted by God, which means we are God's kids! We are children of the King of Kings and Lord of Lords! What are the eternal and immediate implications of that? Find out in this message, "Hand in Glove."

When Paul contrasts the mind of the believer and the mind of the unbeliever in Romans 8:5-11, he makes it clear that the difference is not one of "IQ" - "Intelligence Quotient" - but of DQ - "Desire Quotient." Stephen shows us what that means as he continues his series, "The War Within."

Even though we are still bound to the presence and lure of sin, we are also free from the chains of sin! This is the paradox of the Christian life -- the great "already but not yet" dilemma. We are already free in Christ . . . but we are not yet fully free. So how does this impact our daily lives? The Apostle Paul tells us.

You don't need to try to impress God by repeating a dozen words and phrases every Sunday. You don't need to feel the pain of nails in your own hands and feet. The Son has already taken the pain and the punishment for you, and there is nothing for you to do but to open your heart and believe the King's pardon! Will you do that today?

The Apostle Paul had so much to boast about. He was an Apostle; he planted numerous Churches; he received visions from God, and so on. But when we study Paul's letters, we are struck by his humility. How was he so humble? Because when he looked in the mirror he didn't see the Saint we all see . . . he saw the chief of sinners.

We should expect holy living to be an uphill climb. If Paul lived it and battled it, so will we. When God made you alive in Christ, he called you to a life which is a battle with sin. So face it . . . expect it . . . accept it . . . and fight it! That's your challenge today.

Paul was one of the greatest saints who ever lived, yet even he struggled against sin. He tells us in Romans 7 that fighting temptation was a daily battle for him . . . and sometimes he lost. But that's not all he says. We can't just walk away from a text like this and say, "Well, if Paul can't be perfect, I definitely can't be!" He goes on to tell us how to fight against sin and, more importantly, how to win against it.

The Law is mentioned all throughout the Old and New Testaments "sometimes in a positive light and sometimes in a negative light "and it's a pivotal part of the Gospel. So join Stephen in this study of Romans 7:7-13 as the Apostle Paul reminds us what the Law is . . . and what it isn't.

How did this brilliant agnostic physician go from having a certainty of evolution to believing in the magnificent creative hand of God? Discover how the Lord brought Dr. Olsen and his wife to saving faith through intensive scientific research and observation, and then carried them to Bangladesh where they served in medical missions for decades.

What if the gospel was your priority? What if you shared the Truth to those around you without holding back? Like Peter and John in Acts 4:13, E.V. Hill and S.M. Lockridge preached with confidence inspired by their passion for Jesus. What if we followed their example--and changed our world?

Katharina, the wife of Martin Luther, is one of the unsung heroes of the Protestant Reformation. She lived as a revolutionary role model for her time--and ours--devoted to her husband and family. She and Martin established a godly partnership for the Gospel, profoundly impacting the definition of Christian marriage.

Katharina, the wife of Martin Luther, is one of the unsung heroes of the Protestant Reformation. She lived as a revolutionary role model for her time--and ours--devoted to her husband and family. She and Martin established a godly partnership for the Gospel, profoundly impacting the definition of Christian marriage.

Discouragement is one of Satan's most powerful tools against believers and unbelievers alike. This was true of 18th-century English poet and hymnwriter William Cowper, whose life was riddled with bouts of severe depression and asylum stays. But the Lord used one such residency to reveal to Cowper the Truth of the Gospel. His life of struggle demonstrates several valuable truths for us today.

Jesus promised in Matthew 6 that our Heavenly Father will daily supply our needs, and the legacy of George Mueller is simply that he took Christ seriously. As a result, his life literally became a stage whereon God constantly displayed His faithfulness both in great and small ways.

Spurgeon isn't called the "Prince of Preachers" because of his uncanny way with words. He's called that because of his undeniable dependence upon the power of the Holy Spirit.

It's often been said that God brings us to the breaking point so that we can see our need for Him, and that was certainly the case with this slave-trader turned Pastor known as John Newton. His beloved and inspired hymn, "Amazing Grace," is merely a personal recounting of his own astonishing conversion.

Have you ever witnessed a riot in the parking lot of your church or been threatened by an angry mob of civilians? For us, that would be extreme persecution. For Hudson Taylor, that was just another day at the office!

He was the model of sacrifice and she was the model of forgiveness. Together, they reminded the Church that while the cost of discipleship is great . . . the reward is far greater.

Fanny Crosby is known for 2 things: her blindness and her remarkable hymns. But understanding how she endured her blindness and why she spent the latter part of her life writing hymns is where her real legacy is found.

The words of our Lord as He enters Jerusalem knowing that within days He will be crucified, still echo to this day with this lasting principle: a legacy of spiritual fruit belongs to that man or woman who effectively says to Christ, “Here am I, bury me.” Here am I, willing even to die, bury me. If there was anyone included in this description by our Lord, of a fruitful life of surrender, it would be the man who became America’s first foreign missionary. He would experience incredible suffering; he would bury all but one of his children; he would dig graves for his first wife and then his second wife 19 years later. Many of his associates would die from disease and stress. Long after becoming a living legend, he would write this kind of appeal to potential missionary candidates – and I quote – “Remember, a large proportion of those who come out on a mission to the East die within five years after leaving their native land. So walk softly . . . death is narrowly watching your steps.” How’s that for a recruiting strategy? Are you willing to be a seed, planted in the ground, and by suffering – even dying – bear a harvest for the gospel of Jesus Christ? This missionaries name was Adoniram Judson.

Few missionaries in history ever suffered as much as Adoniram Judson, but that is also why few have left such a profound legacy. His biography is one of those rare stories that captivates like a grand novel but convicts like a great revival.

Oswald Chambers alleviated so much of the so-called mystery of God's Will by offering believers a simple proposition for life: just trust God. Wisdom for the Heart is the Bible-teaching ministry of Stephen Davey and is a ministry of Wisdom International. In addition to this daily broadcast, we have many other resources designed to equip and encourage you in the Christian faith. We have a collection of books, booklets, Bible study guides, commentaries, and more. You can learn more about us and access all of our resources by visiting wisdomonline.org. Each month we offer a free resource to anyone who wants it. Learn more at wisdomonline.org/offer. Our only source of funding is the gifts we receive from listeners like you. Please consider making a donation. Your gift goes directly into supporting this ministry and enables us to develop and distribute these resources. To make a donation, visit wisdomonline.org/donate. Wisdom International 2703 Jones Franklin Road, Suite 105 Cary, NC. 27518 866-482-4253

The pervasive ministry of John and Charles Wesley is a direct result of the private ministry of their mother, Susanna. Her home was her mission field; but her legacy reaches worldwide. Wisdom for the Heart is the Bible-teaching ministry of Stephen Davey and is a ministry of Wisdom International. In addition to this daily broadcast, we have many other resources designed to equip and encourage you in the Christian faith. We have a collection of books, booklets, Bible study guides, commentaries, and more. You can learn more about us and access all of our resources by visiting wisdomonline.org. Each month we offer a free resource to anyone who wants it. Learn more at wisdomonline.org/offer. Our only source of funding is the gifts we receive from listeners like you. Please consider making a donation. Your gift goes directly into supporting this ministry and enables us to develop and distribute these resources. To make a donation, visit wisdomonline.org/donate. Wisdom International 2703 Jones Franklin Road, Suite 105 Cary, NC. 27518 866-482-4253

A good missionary convicts the world, but a great missionary convicts the Church as well. Amy Carmichael was one such missionary. Wisdom for the Heart is the Bible-teaching ministry of Stephen Davey and is a ministry of Wisdom International. In addition to this daily broadcast, we have many other resources designed to equip and encourage you in the Christian faith. We have a collection of books, booklets, Bible study guides, commentaries, and more. You can learn more about us and access all of our resources by visiting wisdomonline.org. Each month we offer a free resource to anyone who wants it. Learn more at wisdomonline.org/offer. Our only source of funding is the gifts we receive from listeners like you. Please consider making a donation. Your gift goes directly into supporting this ministry and enables us to develop and distribute these resources. To make a donation, visit wisdomonline.org/donate. Wisdom International 2703 Jones Franklin Road, Suite 105 Cary, NC. 27518 866-482-4253

A good missionary convicts the world, but a great missionary convicts the Church as well. Amy Carmichael was one such missionary.

Of all the amazing biographies Stephen brings us in his "Legacies of Light" series, perhaps none will pull on your heartstrings like this testimony of faith. It's a story of a woman's endurance, a man's despair, and a Savior's incredible mercy.

As Stephen concludes his study of the disciples of Jesus, he reminds us that we don't need status, money, or special skills to be an effective follower of Christ. All we truly need is an attentive heart to God, and a desire to follow His lead. Join Stephen and be encouraged in your Christian service today.

As Jesus continues to call those followers whom he will call his closest disciples, Stephen Davey uncovers some timeless principles that we can use in our own walks as disciples of the Lord. We can take encouragement from the status, talents, and abilities (or the lack thereof) of these disciples as we humbly accept God's calling for our lives today.

As Jesus continues to call those followers whom he will call his closest disciples, Stephen Davey uncovers some timeless principles that we can use in our own walks as disciples of the Lord. We can take encouragement from the status, talents, and abilities (or the lack thereof) of these disciples as we humbly accept God's calling for our lives today. Learn more about Wisdom International and the biblically sound resources we offer by visiting https://www.wisdomonline.org. If you're being blessed and encouraged by these daily Bible lessons, please consider supporting us with your donation. https://www.wisdomonline.org/give

As Jesus goes before His Father, in the presence of the Holy Spirit, the Trinity are praying a blessing and commitment on the disciples Jesus is about to choose to follow Him in his earthly ministry. Join Stephen in these next two lessons, and be encouraged by these biographical sketches of Jesus' chosen followers.

The people we rub shoulders with often rub off on us, don't they? That's why we, as parents, tell our kids to be careful who they hang around, because we believe the old saying that 'you are who your friends are or you soon will be.' The same truth applies to our relationship with Christ. The more time we spend with Him daily.

During His brief years of ministry, Jesus was constantly surrounded by pseudo-disciples who followed Him for their own gain. But when they discovered that Jesus had certain expectations of them as well.

In his series 'The Beauty of the Bride,' Stephen unveils one of the most beautiful and dramatic truths found at the heart of the Gospel: Christianity is a wedding! Of all the descriptions God gives us in Scripture regarding the state of our relationship with Him, there is none so compelling and so convicting as this one. So let's listen now as Stephen explains the ramifications of this truth both for our future and, more practically, for our present.

There is nothing righteous about Jonah's response to Nineveh's revival, but there is something very real about it. It strikes a chord in all of us. While we love the concept of God saving His enemies, we aren't so comfortable with Him saving ours.

Jonah's mission field was a nation of idolatrous, blood-thirsty people. Who is yours?

The national conversion of Nineveh is not only the most widespread revival in all of history, it is by far the most surprising.

God had to take Jonah into the belly of a fish to get his attention. How is He getting yours?

There was a prophet who failed to appear in the capital courtroom of Nineveh’s king. He was evidently under the impression, as he ran in the opposite direction, that he could hide from the surveillance lens of an omniscient, omnipresent God. If you are just now joining us in our study through the journal of Jonah, thus far we can easily summarize all that has happened with one simple sentence, “God said, ‘Go,’ and Jonah said, ‘No.’” We could also summarize our study with a slightly longer sentence, “God said, ‘Jonah, I want you to go and deliver a message of mercy,’ and Jonah said, ‘I’d rather resign than see Ninevites repent.’” So Jonah, the prophet of God, resigned his commission. He turned in his prophet’s badge and hospital pass card, took the fish sticker off his carriage bumper, gave all his manuscripts to some younger prophets who could use them, and headed for the coast of Spain – the exact opposite direction from Nineveh. However, he will discover that God has not accepted his resignation. In fact, God is going to give Jonah some time to do some deep thinking.

There are two equally foolish errors that we as Christians often make. The first is running from God. The second is believing He won't come running after us!

The most astonishing thing about the Book of Jonah is not Jonah's hatred for Nineveh or his 3-day journey in the belly of a fish; it is the grace of God.

The old saying goes, 'There are two things that are certain in life: death and taxes.' I would add the Judgment of God to that list as well. Most people don't like to talk or think about God's judgment, but it's best we consider it now before it's too late.

When life deals us a painful blow, we're often tempted to strike back, aren't we? It goes against our nature to weather the storms of life silently. But that's exactly what God wants us to do sometimes. Obedience is learned through patience, and patience is only born through trials.

Suppose you discovered a fountain of youth and it had the power to make you youthful and beautiful forever! What would you do? Would you give the water to your friends? Would you share it with the needy and sick? Or would you hide it and keep its power only for yourself? The Gospel is a fountain of living water . . . are we sharing it with others?

Did your mom ever tell you that bad company corrupts good manners? It's true. the wrong kind of counsel can be devastating. Israel's history was so messed up because her kings kept listening to bad advice. What is your history like?

Greed dominates our world today. From the advertisements of Madison Avenue to the profit-grabbing of Wall Street, the love of money is all around us. But greed isn't new. it's an epidemic as old as humanity itself. There is a cure, however . . . if you're willing to accept it.

The diagnosis for sin is not good. It's terminal. But there is a cure. In this message, an Old Testament leper receives it once and for all. Will you?

God often called His prophets in the Old Testament to do impossible and sometimes even bizarre things in order to reveal His glory. 2 Kings 5:1-15 is a prime example of that.

Many of us have had difficult days, weeks, months and even years, when the way forward seemed bleak and we weren't sure how to press on. But we can take comfort from the testimony of Elisha because while he faced enormous trials and seeming impossibilities, God always proved stronger than the obstacles.

Though tough times are by their nature unpleasant, they are designed by God to develop trust. We see in the life of Elisha that those who are willing to trust eventually see God's power revealed. Just because our hands are tied doesn't mean our hearts have to be.

Throughout Scripture, Babylon represents man's rebellion against God. It is a city marked by humanism, atheism, existentialism, and hedonism. It is literally hell on earth--a city void of Christ. But in Revelation 18, God will finally destroy Babylon once and for all. Join Stephen now to discover how God will do it.

The story of the Tower of Babel isn't about humans trying to build the tallest tower in the world--it's a story about men attempting to be God . . . and God having to put them in their place. The ending of that story is found in Revelation 17, so join Stephen as he takes us there.

The story of the Tower of Babel isn't about humans trying to build the tallest tower in the world--it's a story about men attempting to be God . . . and God having to put them in their place. The ending of that story is found in Revelation 17, so join Stephen as he takes us there.

What is your opinion on global warming? It's become a hot topic in society today--not just in our country but in other parts of the world, as well. What should our response as Christians be to the ever-growing cry of society to save the environment? In this message, Stephen tells us.

If I were to ask you what you consider the most decisive battle or conflict in history, what would you say? Perhaps Constantine's victory at Milvian Bridge . . . the colonists' triumph over Great Britain . . . Hitler's defeat in World War II. No matter what your opinion is, you can put all the important battles in history together and they will still pale in comparison to a battle that is yet to be fought. The Battle of Armageddon, as Scripture calls it, will change the face of the world . . . literally.

Apple trees bear apples, and Spirit-filled lives bear spiritual fruit. But if that's the case then why do so many Christians seem to bear so little fruit? In this message Stephen shows us where the problem lies.

Apple trees bear apples, and Spirit-filled lives bear spiritual fruit. But if that's the case then why do so many Christians seem to bear so little fruit? In this message Stephen shows us where the problem lies.

Is it possible that with all our diverse outlets for spiritual nourishment such as Christian radio, books, and CDs, God's Word has become comfortable to us? Stephen provides a stern warning to us of what happens when Scripture merely tickles our ears rather than changes our lives.

The Apostle James began his letter by telling us to persevere through trials and then he challenged us to fight against temptation. But how do we embrace suffering with joy? And how do we remain strong in our fight against sin? James answers that now.

All sin is blasphemy because it makes us worship ourselves as God and treat God as a devil. So don't waste your time pointing fingers. God saw the crime and He isn't fooled by our rationalizations.

We know that trials, even the most painful ones, are a gift from God. But in this message Stephen teaches us that spiritual maturity is not attained by merely experiencing trials -- it is attained by embracing them.

Freedom means different things to different people, but one thing it can never mean is the absence of authority. We all serve some master, whether we admit it or not. So the question is . . . who are you serving?

What happened when Jesus' life-transformational ministry came head-to-head with the Pharisee's religious technicalities? How could Jesus claim to live a perfect life if the religious leaders could accuse him of not following the Sabbath? Come explore with Stephen Davey the truth that Jesus is Lord of the Sabbath, not the other way around.

How do you view Jesus? Is he like a patch, a way to supplement and aid you as just a part of your religious experience? Or is he truly the transforming, all-consuming Savior that he claims to be--the only way to Heaven? Join Stephen today and explore one of Jesus' many earthly encounters with the Pharisees, and the words of freedom he offers to all who believe.

Because Jesus only called 12 disciples to be His closest followers, the identities of these men become especially important for our study. Did Jesus only call me who would be good witnesses as hardworking men of integrity? Far from it! Today, join us in the book of Luke as we discover perhaps the most unusual calls to ministry that Jesus delivers in the Bible.

For the first time in Jesus’ earthly ministry, He is not only going to heal someone from a physical illness, but He is going to announce His divine power to forgive sins—a power only reserved for God Himself. As Jesus displays his spiritual healing through an example of spiritual healing, we will see that while healing for our bodies is a blessing, healing for our souls will last throughout eternity.

Jesus knew all about leprosy. He knew that this incurable disease caused unfathomable suffering, as it ate away at the body of the diseased. But more importantly, He knew the way the religious leaders taught the people about leprosy—that only God Himself could heal a leper. And so when a leper boldly approaches Jesus, asking for help, join Stephen Davey in exploring another way Jesus declared Himself to be God, this time through His healing power.

When Jesus began to call his disciples, He first tested them, and challenged them, to step out in faith. As we take a look at the first recorded moments between Jesus and Simon Peter, we will explore the mindset of Peter as he is challenged by God, tested by God, and ultimately, takes a leap of faith. At the end of this journey, Stephen Davey will show us that our calling is higher than anything we can understand, and He wants to use us in ways that we cannot imagine.

Jesus did not just come to earth to say good words, perform some miracles and gain a following. He came to fulfill a prophecy thousands of years earlier when God promised Adam and Eve that one of their descendants would crush the head of the serpent Satan. Join Stephen today and discover the scene when Jesus first came face-to-face with one of Satan’s demonic followers.

As Jesus prepares to give His first sermon in His hometown, He was likely excited to reveal himself to his family, friends, and hometown. But the reaction to Jesus’ sermon might surprise you! Join Stephen today as he explores the lessons we can learn from rejection.

Do you ever think that it must have been easy for Jesus to live a perfect life? After all, he was fully God the whole time! But here in Luke 4, we get a glimpse of the struggle and difficulty Jesus endured at the hand of Satan, who constantly tempted Him. Through this passage, we find an understanding of our own temptations, and are given a blueprint on how to resist the devil at every turn.

In this message, Stephen takes us to a future and final payday where God will render to every man according to his works. It will be a day of rejoicing for some...and a day of mourning for others.

Freedom. What does that word mean to you? For some it means the ability to work where you want to work and marry whom you want to marry and vote for whomever you want to vote. For others it means not having to answer to anyone. But while freedom means different things to different people, there’s one thing it can never mean: the absence of authority. In this message Stephen reveals to us that we all serve some master. The question is . . . whose slave are you?

As you reflect on the complex relationship between holiness and Christian liberty — between biblical guidelines and man-made rules — are you making room in your reasoning for grace? In this message, Stephen challenges us to put grace in the driver’s seat and leave everything else on the road.

As believers we know we’re supposed to hate sin, but why do we still find it so attractive? Why does holiness seem so unattainable and unnatural? In this message Stephen grapples with the difficult doctrine of sanctification and reminds us why, in order to become like Christ, we need God’s help.

When you hear the word “theology,” do you think of a stodgy old professor sitting at a candlelit desk with a dusty manuscript in his hand?! Theology just sounds, well...boring. But in this message, Stephen shows us why the study of God can and should be the most exciting study in the universe.

The Apostle Paul once reprimanded the church in Corinth for their inability to receive meaty doctrines. The Roman church evidently didn’t have the same problem. In Romans 6, Paul handed them a huge theological steak which probably took a long time to digest! Join Stephen now as we chew on this truth together.

Only when we look at suffering through the lens of the gospel can we make any sense of it.

The world says, "Blessed are those who never need a handout." Jesus says, "Blessed are those who are always willing to lend a hand." The world says, "Happy are those whose private perversion is never revealed." Jesus says, "Happy are those whose private purity is a daily resolution." Which voice are you heeding today?

How hungry are you for the things of God? How reliant are you on His Spirit for every good work? Jesus' Beatitude in Matthew 5:5-6 isn't just for preachers and missionaries. It is for every person who wears His name.

Jesus didn’t say, “Blessed are the pouters and complainers and whiners.” He said, “Blessed are the brokenhearted.” Stephen uncovers the difference between the two.

You won't find a more radical and countercultural speech in all of scripture than the one Christ gives in Matthew 5. In fact, you won't find a more countercultural speech in all of history. No philosopher has ever come close to replicating the beauty and sheer weight of Jesus' Beatitudes.

The Apostle Paul has been contrasting the life and legacy of the two most important men in history, Adam and Jesus, in Romans 5, and as Stephen wraps up his his study of that passage with this message, he’ll cause us to question which of these men we’re following: Adam, who disobeyed God, or Jesus, who obeyed God even to death?

Have you ever thought about how many parallels there are to Calvary in the first few chapters of Genesis? There’s the parallel between The Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil and the cross… and there’s the parallel between the Garden of Eden and the Garden of Gethsemane… but the most important parallel, by far, is the contrast between the first sinless man in history, Adam, and the last sinless man in history, Christ. So join Stephen in this message as he continues to contrast Adam’s vice with Christ’s victory.

In 1 Corinthians chapter 15, the Apostle Paul reminds us that we can’t fully understand all that Christ gained for us at Calvary until we understand all that we really lost in Eden. In fact, the story of the Gospel is really a story of “Two different Adams: the one who obeyed God and the one who didn’t.” So join Stephen in his new series – The First and Second Adam – as he expounds that truth for us.

What the world considers great is different than what the Bible considers great. Joseph was great in the world's eyes because he was second in command of Egypt. He had the palace and the servants and the leadership. But Joseph was great in God's eyes long before that. Why? Find out now.

What must have been flooding through Jacob’s mind as he rode to meet his son for the first time in years? Joy? Excitement? Gratitude?! In this message Stephen lets us witness that incredible reunion.

Thousands of years before the Apostle Paul exhorted believers in Philippi to have the same attitude as Christ Jesus, Joseph was displaying through his life what that attitude looked like. Turn in your Bible to Genesis 44 and get ready for an attitude adjustment!

It is interesting how much we are like Jacob when the Spirit of God does not control us. We so often jump to wrong conclusions based on circumstances. Do we really believe God is in control? More importantly, are we willing to give Him control? Find out now.

To what extent do unbelievers have conscience? Do people without Christ feel badly when they break the law? In this message Stephen reveals to us why our "prosecutor within" is one of the greatest apologetics for Christianity. You can deny a book . . . you can't deny your conscience.

What was Joseph's greatest test? Was it when his brothers sold him into slavery? Was it when he was tempted by Potiphar's wife? Stephen suggests it was neither of these. Instead, Joseph's greatest test was being surrounded by opulence, ease and luxury for the latter portion of his life. The Test of Prosperity is a difficult one for believers to pass.

Who do you put your trust in? If it's someone other than God, you're setting yourself up for a fall. Everything and everyone will let us down at some point. Only God can bear the weight of our sin . . . and only He can bear the weight of our worship.

Joseph refused to violate his character. He refused to call sin a "romantic affair" or an "alternate lifestyle." And he wasn't awarded with a medal of honor for it . . . he was thrown in prison for it. How much are you willing to sacrifice in order to do the right thing?

What the world deems news-worthy might not even make the back page of Heaven's news release. Joseph earned worldly plaudit's later in life when he strategically rescued Egypt from starvation during a 7-year famine, but it was his year's of slavery and imprisonment that earned him plaudits in Heaven.

What epitaph would you have inscribed on the Apostle Paul’s tombstone? What words can suffice to sum up a life so wholly spent on bringing glory to Jesus Christ?

Paul's main desire in life was to reach Gentiles for Christ. He endured hardships, stonings, shipwrecks, and other setbacks just to preach the gospel on Rome. What's holding you back from reaching your neighbors and friends?

Everyone needs the Lord. And no one is beyond saving. From an evil dictator to your annoying next-door neighbor . . . are you praying for your enemies?

There is something incredibly moving about the faithful testimony of someone who is in the process of being shipwrecked. When faith is shaken and rocked, that’s when it is most definitely proven.

The deception of being religious is that it can cause you to believe you are right with God when you really aren't. It can give you the appearance of godliness without giving you a genuine relationship with God.

The proverb of today's culture is, "Never put off ' til tomorrow what you can do the day after!' But postponing discipleship is not a good idea. Seek God today when He can be found. Tomorrow might be too late.

Even the Apostle Paul blew his testimony in front of a crowd. It can happen to any of us. But the good news is that even when we are unfaithful, God remains faithful!

How do you reach unbelieving family friends when they each have different perspectives and responses? First, discern where they are coming from before you proceed to share with them where they need to go.

Trials are a classroom for faith and suffering is the teacher. But what is it supposed to teach us?

Proverbs 11:14 tells us that “in the multitude of counselors there is safety,” and as a general rule this is indeed true. But what happens when all the counselors around you are wrong; even your godly friends?

Imagine what must it have been like when the Apostle Paul left the early Christians for the last time. Their ministry had been established by his constant prayers, challenges, and visits. But those who live lives of abandon for God always leave so much behind.

How can we distinguish between a charismatic Christian leader and a false prophet? That's an important question . . . because if we don't know what a sheep looks like, we'll never be able to spot the wolves.

Wherever there are sheep, there are sure to be wolves lurking nearby. So how do we spot them? How do we know when the person sitting next to us in the pew or the man behind the pulpit is really a wolf in sheep's clothing?

Many Christians today are concerned about the moral condition of our nation. But what is the best way to 'reclaim America' for Christ? Stop focusing on saving culture and start focusing on saving souls.

Do real men cry? Can Christians show emotion without damaging their testimony and reputation? Yes! As a matter of fact, it's one of the Four Habits of Highly Effective Christians displayed in the life of the Apostle Paul.

Healings can be staged; signs and wonders can be counterfeited; so what is the definitive proof that Jesus Christ is the Son of God? It is the resurrection. No magician in the world can pull that off.

Sometimes sharing the Gospel with your friends and neighbors will produce a healthy conversation and debate. Sometimes it will merely turn them away. But other times it will actually incite them to anger and resentment.

Charles Spurgeon said, "The Bible is like a lion: you don't defend it, you just let it loose." In Acts chapter 19, that happens, and transformation in the lives of people is incredible, and the assault upon the kingdom of darkness is undeniable!

The bestowal of the Holy Spirit at Ephesus shows that the church is without social castes. We should be diverse, but unified in spite of our diversity.

What happens when an eloquent and educated 1st century scholar is tutored by a couple of blue collar saints? Ministry happens!

The more persecution and opposition the Apostle Paul faced, the more confident he became in sharing his faith. But sometimes even Paul's faith was tested to the limit. In this lesson, it took a vision from God in the night to bring him back.

If the Gospel is the central theme of Scripture in both the Old and New Testaments, then what role does it play in Esther's story? What does the book of Esther tell us about God's character and divine plan, His justice and mercy? Find out in the closing moments of Esther's saga.

If the Gospel is the central theme of Scripture in both the Old and New Testaments, then what role does it play in Esther's story? What does the book of Esther tell us about God's character and divine plan, His justice and mercy? Find out in the closing moments of Esther's saga.

Romans 10:15 says, "How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news of good things." And in Esther 8 we see a set of these beautiful feet galloping throughout the provinces of Persia. They belong to the horses and riders who once terrified the Jewish people with messages of destruction. Now they are bringing news of hope and salvation. Stephen reveals the contents of this communiqué in today’s broadcast.

There is a chess match being played in the kingdom of Persia between Haman and the Jewish people, and Haman effectively has the king in check. But in this message we'll watch a forgotten opponent emerge from the shadows of the board to strike a surprising blow to thwart Haman's strategy. Watch the game unfold in today's message.

Haman has effectively lured the king to sleep with his deceit and cunning and has even talked him into warranting the death of thousands of people. But in today’s message we will watch as God gives the king a dramatic wake-up call! Join Stephen in this message to see how He does it.

Esther thinks she has it made. No one knows her real identity; she has servants at her beck and call; she is the favored wife of the king. But just when it seems like the world is at her fingertips, something unexpected happens that threatens to end it all. Listen to “Defining Moments” to discover what it is.

Have you ever been afraid to tell someone you were a Christian? Has the fear of losing that friend or that job or that credibility ever outweighed your desire to identify with Christ? In this message we’ll watch as Mordecai is faced with a similar crisis of faith. How will he respond? Join pastor and author Stephen Davey now to find out.

Have you ever been afraid to tell someone you were a Christian? Has the fear of losing that friend or that job or that credibility ever outweighed your desire to identify with Christ? In this message we’ll watch as Mordecai is faced with a similar crisis of faith. How will he respond? Join pastor and author Stephen Davey now to find out.

Esther is the epitome of a prodigal saint. She abandons God to compete for the fleeting pleasures of fame and fortune . . . and she wins, too. But in this message “The Contest and the Crown,” Stephen reminds us what she loses in the process.

On the surface, Esther’s life is a real Cinderella story. But as Stephen takes us behind the trappings of her new-found royalty, we’ll discover that things aren’t nearly as good as they seem. Join him now in part two of his message “The Curtain Rises” to discover what’s really been going on behind the scenes.

Sometimes when we make heroes out of the human characters in biblical stories, we forget who the real hero of the Bible is. So before we even get past the introduction of this study of Esther, Stephen makes sure we have our eyes focused laterally rather than horizontally. As we’ll discover in today’s message, the real King of Persia isn’t seated in the palace . . . He’s seated just above the royal throne.

There is an unbreakable bond between our private testimony before God and our public reputation before others. Holiness never stays hidden.

We don't just bear the name of Christ when we become Christians. We bear His reputation as well.

Jesus Christ is the most precious gift in all of history. But is He precious to you?

Everything about the Old Testament temple hailed God's holiness. The sacrifices. The lampstands. The priestly attire. The incense. Everything was set apart for His glory. So what about you?

There are plenty of gray areas when it comes to Christian living. There are quite a few matters of conscience as well. But in 1 Peter 2:1-2, Peter reminds us that some things are black and white.

Push back the walls of family love until they include your neighbor. Then, push back the walls even further until they include strangers. Then, push back your walls as far as they’ll go until they include your enemies. That's Stephen's message from 1 Peter 1:22-25.

The gospel isn't about golden streets and pearly gates and unfathomable earthly wealth. It is about the inexhaustible riches of Christ's sacrifice, won through suffering and obedience. How much is the blood of Christ worth to you today?

The command to fear God is given on numerous occasions throughout the Bible, but how do we love and fear at the same time? Aren't the two in contradiction? In this message, Stephen expounds the meaning of holy fear and shows us why it is necessary to our love of God.

What occupies your thinking and time? What gets you out of bed in the morning? Stephen reminds us that if holiness isn't our greatest pursuit, we're just chasing wind.

Have you noticed that God's commands are impossible to perform in your own strength? He doesn't say "laugh louder," or "work harder," or "drive slower." He says "Be holy as I am holy." That's not just an action; it's a state of being. In this powerful message, Stephen reminds us that the pursuit of holiness is not a measure of strength, but surrender.

Written history has recorded many blessings. Blessings from father to son, blessings attributed to people from various gods. But in the Bible, God gives one particular blessing that is not only recorded in history but sets the stage for history. What words did God give to Jesus as He commissioned His Son for His earthly ministry? How did these words carry Jesus through the next years? Join Stephen today and explore the meaning of God's most powerful blessing.

John the Baptist promised two types of baptisms as he introduced Jesus' ministry, baptism by the Spirit and baptism by fire. What are the key characteristics of these two baptisms, and how do they relate to each other? The answer may surprise you! Join Stephen in exploring John the Baptist's first-century revival.

As John the Baptist begins to share his message with the world, he gives the way of salvation to many different groups of people. In the process, he gives us the keys to demonstrating a life of genuine repentance and helps us see what living a life to glorify God looks like.

As Stephen explores the beginning of Jesus' adult ministry, he starts by introducing the political and religious scene that sets the stage for Jesus' arrival. Despite the hostile political climate and the corrupt religious scene, God knows the time is perfect for a true religious revival. Join Stephen today and discover that no matter the earthly circumstances, and regardless of who has earthly power, our Great Commission never changes.

Did you know that there is only one Biblical story of Jesus' life between age 3 and age 30? The gospel writer Luke is the only person to tell this story, and he does so at the end of Luke 2. Join Stephen and discover this remarkable story when Jesus had discovered His true identity.

When the nativity scenes go away, and the Christmas season has come to a close, there is so much more about Jesus that we need to remember. He left that manger, grew as a boy and became a man. Luke doesn't draw the curtains with the shepherds but takes us into the early days of Jesus' life. Join Stephen today and explore some of the important figures that Baby Jesus met.

As the story of Jesus' birth unfolds, Luke’s gospel reveals some surprising men who were given the divine task to be the bearers of the first gospel, the first good news. How were a bunch of lowly shepherds chosen to herald the coming of the Messiah? Join Stephen and explore the announcement of Jesus' birth!

The Christmas story is full of singing. From Mary to Zechariah, to the angels themselves, songs and hymns of praise echo throughout heaven, heralding the coming of the Messiah on earth. Today, let's explore the meaning and impact of one of these songs. What caused a lowly, faithful priest to explode into heavenly, prophetic singing? Join us today to discover Zechariah's song.

After his dramatic encounter with Zechariah the priest, the angel Gabriel has another important message to deliver, to a young, virgin woman named Mary. Gabriel's news will dramatically change this young girl's life forever. Today, Stephen explores the moment when Mary learns that she will be the mother to the Messiah. Hers is a story of submission that we can learn from today.

Even before the world heard Jesus' first cry, long before Jesus took his first earthly breath, God was displaying his providence to those in need. As told by Luke in his gospel account, God’s faithfulness extended first to a lowly priest of God, named Zechariah. God's faithfulness to this humble servant is the same faithfulness that He displayed with the gift of his Son, and is the same faithfulness that He offers to us today.

When was the last time you talked with an unbeliever about Jesus? In Titus 2:15, the Apostle Paul reminds us that evangelism should be part of our everyday lives because we are constantly carrying Christ's name and reputation with us wherever we go. In this final message of his series "Family Talk," Stephen shows us, practically, how to be better witnesses for Jesus Christ.

People today don't like the idea of "right" and "wrong." They aren't comfortable with someone telling them how to act or think. And many Christians have fallen into this relativistic mindset, as well. Join Stephen today as he reminds us that grace doesn't give us freedom to sin . . . it gives us freedom not to.

People today don't like the idea of "right" and "wrong." They aren't comfortable with someone telling them how to act or think. And many Christians have fallen into this relativistic mindset, as well. Join Stephen today as he reminds us that grace doesn't give us freedom to sin . . . it gives us freedom not to.

It’s easy to go on mission trips and evangelistic outings and serve God in diverse ministries at our local churches, then forget that what we do at work is also worship. We don’t clock in and clock out of the Great Commission. Today Stephen teaches us how to worship God, even in the mundane.

It’s easy to go on mission trips and evangelistic outings and serve God in diverse ministries at our local churches, then forget that what we do at work is also worship. We don’t clock in and clock out of the Great Commission. Today Stephen teaches us how to worship God, even in the mundane.

The Church is made up of diverse age groups, and the Apostle Paul isn’t leaving anyone out in his divinely inspired letter to Titus. He has already addressed older men and women, along with wives and mothers, and now he turns his attention to the younger men in the congregation at Crete. So join Stephen in this message to hear what Paul has to say to these leaders of tomorrow.

The Church is made up of diverse age groups, and the Apostle Paul isn’t leaving anyone out in his divinely inspired letter to Titus. He has already addressed older men and women, along with wives and mothers, and now he turns his attention to the younger men in the congregation at Crete. So join Stephen in this message to hear what Paul has to say to these leaders of tomorrow.

What is your view on the role of women in the home? Do you think mothers should stay home with their kids or should they pursue a career? These questions are being hotly debated in the Church today, just as they were in Paul’s day. Today Stephen tells us what God’s Word has to say on the subject.

What is your view on the role of women in the home? Do you think mothers should stay home with their kids or should they pursue a career? These questions are being hotly debated in the Church today, just as they were in Paul’s day. Today Stephen tells us what God’s Word has to say on the subject.

The secular model for womanhood and motherhood is drastically different from the biblical model but, sadly, the lines are becoming blurred in our 21st century American churches. Stephen takes us back to the Book of Titus to clear up the confusion.

The secular model for womanhood and motherhood is drastically different from the biblical model but, sadly, the lines are becoming blurred in our 21st century American churches. Stephen takes us back to the Book of Titus to clear up the confusion.

The Apostle Paul opened the second chapter of his letter to Titus by challenging older men to be godly leaders in the Church. Now he moves on to urge older women to do the same. Join Stephen in this message to discover what a godly woman is like.

The Prophets received visions, performed miracles, and heard God speak directly. They were much better off than we are today, right? In this wonderful look at the miracle of scripture, Stephen brings us a surprising answer.

Trials change our perspective, don't they? When sorrow strikes, the little things we thought were so important fade into the periphery. In 1 Peter 1:6-9, the Apostle Peter teaches us why trials are not only critical to the deepening of our faith, but also to the deepening of our joy.

Would it change the attitude of a hungry beggar to tell him he would soon receive a fortune? Would it change the perspective of a wounded soldier to tell him he would soon receive a medal of honor? Peter tells us that Christ is reserving for us an eternal inheritance in heaven. Is that changing your attitude today?

Our finite minds can only understand a fraction of the triune nature of God, but that fraction will change our perspective entirely. Stephen brings us a profoundly practical lesson on Theology Proper.

Peter didn't point to the doctrine of election so that philosophers and theologians could have something to argue about over a cup of tea. He pointed to it so that isolated Christians could have hope in the midst of suffering.

Christians throughout the empire are being marginalized and scattered and many of them are questioning whether God has abandoned them. Who better to remind them of God's unfailing grace than Peter?

Christians throughout the empire are being marginalized and scattered and many of them are questioning whether God has abandoned them. Who better to remind them of God's unfailing grace than Peter?

In these final verses of Ecclesiastes, Solomon reflects on his journey to find truth, describes where that truth comes from, and then shares some final wisdom for his son from his life experience. As Stephen opens Solomon’s journal for the final time in this series, he shares why these life truths are just as important today as they were when King Solomon sat on the throne of Israel.

King Solomon issues a warning: Death is not the final slumbering, death is the final awakening! Since life is short, with just a breath between you and death, it's vital to remember your Creator! Remembering your Creator means you won’t become misguided in your youth – you'll walk with Him. Remembering your Creator means you won’t become miserable in your old age – you'll trust Him. And remembering your Creator means you won’t be mistaken at your death – you believe in Him.

To the young, Solomon pulls his chair up close and says, “Listen; this is God’s Word; this is God’s design; this is God’s protection. Put sin as far away from you as you can. I want you to enjoy your youth; I want you to make the most of it, but you’ve got to do it God’s way. God knows what’s best; God created you, and God wants you to enjoy the gift of life He’s given you. So: enjoy these early years thoroughly, invest these early years wisely, and guard these early years carefully.

There are many things in life we can’t predict; don’t let the unexpected events of life paralyze you with fear. There are a lot of mysteries too. But don’t let the unexplainable mysteries of God’s work in your life rob you of joy. While there is the sweet light of day – this day which God has made, let’s make the most of it – for the glory of God.

Solomon gave us a description of how to aim your life in the wrong direction. The wisest thing you will ever do, to begin walking in the right direction, is to repent of your sin at the cross of Christ. The word repent literally means to turn around. To change direction. To allow Christ to lead you away from yourself and your fallen world, and walk with Him. And then, by following Him, you can influence and guide our world as we show forth the praises of Him who has called us out of darkness into a marvelous light.

“A wise life is made up of a multitude of small things; little words, not eloquent speeches. It is not in one heroic effort, but through little things, that a life is wisely lived.” That’s another way of saying, wisdom is to be demonstrated out there in the routine, traffic patterns of life.

It makes common sense to the honest person that they need a God. The problem is, most people don't want the God of the Bible. To them, and to us, God says "Stop wandering around in the darkness of your own speculations. “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” God offers you light and wisdom for life today. So, which way are you leaning? Who are you following? What direction are you taking? Not just for this life, but as you journey through life toward that eternal life to come.

The wisdom of God and the Word of God go hand in hand. Wise people aren’t the smartest people on the SAT scores; wise people are submissive people to the scriptures. Wisdom might not win the most applause, but it’s still right. Wisdom might not gain the largest audience, but it’s still right. Wisdom might not win the biggest argument, but it’s still right. Wisdom will mark your life and change your life as you walk with God who is all-wise. Walk through life with the Author and Finisher of our faith who humbled Himself unto death, even death on a cross. Let’s not forget Him during a lifetime of surprising events. Let’s learn to expect the unexpected, leaning on Him, and loving Him, and trusting Him, our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

While we are here on earth, God wants us to enjoy the good gifts he has given us. He wants us to live with heaven in mind, but while we're here, we savor His blessings, enjoy the love and companionship of family and friends, and we serve with vigor. And then, at God’s appointed time, we each will wing our way to that Celestial City where the dancing and the feasting and the singing and serving and the loving and the thanking and the worshipping will go on and on and on in uninterrupted eternal joy.

Life is filled with puzzles and they’re all missing a piece -- as if to remind us that God must remain the -- the middle piece -- the primary piece . . . Solomon is reminding us that God is -- and God will be and God will always be -- the final piece, tying it all together.

God gives you practical wisdom for the workplace and helps you navigate your work and work relationships well. God gives you wisdom to respond to those in authority over you. God gives you wisdom to know that whatever happens, God has reasons, and those reasons will lead you to new depths of character and trust . . . and even more wisdom.

The very first step in getting wisdom is wanting to get the wisdom of God. It’s a matter of life and death. Left to ourselves we’ll pursue perfectionism. We’ll become paralyzed by dishonor and criticism. We’ll become proud in our knowledge and intellectualism. We’ll get wasted in the emptiness of hedonism. Wisdom will draw you to the Creator of wisdom, and the giver of wisdom, and the word of God’s wisdom – which points to the gospel of wisdom.

We don’t know what is going to happen the day after tomorrow. We don’t even know what’s going to happen an hour from now. God is in control of all of that: the day of our birth, the day of our death, and the winding crooked road with the ups and downs of life. So remember: God constructed the twists and turns of life to strengthen our spiritual confidence in Him. And God created the ups and downs of life to stabilize our dependence on Him.

Over 150,000 people die every day. Despite technological advancements and progress in medicine and science, men have not been able to find a remedy for death. That's why Jesus' claim to be 'The Resurrection and The Life' is such good news! He didn't just claim it either; He proved it. He did what no other philosopher, rabbi, guru, doctor, or scientist could do: He cut to the very heart of our sinful, human condition and weeded it out from the roots.

Over 150,000 people die every day. Despite technological advancements and progress in medicine and science, men have not been able to find a remedy for death. That's why Jesus' claim to be 'The Resurrection and The Life' is such good news! He didn't just claim it either; He proved it. He did what no other philosopher, rabbi, guru, doctor, or scientist could do: He cut to the very heart of our sinful, human condition and weeded it out from the roots.

There have been many notorious sell-outs and traitors in history. But none of them are quite as infamous as Judas Iscariot. His name is synonymous with betrayal, and his story is the epitome of treachery. But what led this seemingly committed disciple to forsake Jesus Christ for a mere thirty pieces of silver? Where did he go wrong? And more to the point, as far as we're concerned, what are the warnings for us in this account? Stephen is going to remind us that there is a grave difference between being near Christ and being in Christ.

Do you ever struggle with assurance of salvation? Do you feel uncertain that God will forgive you on the last day? If so, the Apostle has a divinely inspired message you need to hear.

The greatest love a man can ever express or has ever expressed is to give up his life for a friend. That's the kind of heroism that wins a person war-medals or turns a real-life biography into a timeless drama. But the Apostle Paul gives us an incredible picture in Romans 5:6-8 of a love that is even more heroic than this. So join Stephen now to discover what it looks like.

In this message Stephen introduces us to the mysterious third Person of the Godhead, the Holy Spirit, and explores some of the aspects of the Spirit’s ministry that often go unnoticed. So join Stephen once again in his series, “Unwrapping the Perfect Gifts,” as he brings us the greatest gift of all: God Himself!

When the Apostle Paul says that pain is a gift from God in Romans 5, is he experiencing a moment of temporary insanity? No. He understands that pain draws us closer to the Savior like nothing else. So join Stephen in this message as he brings us Paul's timeless challenge regarding suffering.

Grace has become a common word in Christianity today -- almost too common. We say it so much that we are beginning to trivialize it and forget what it means. So join Stephen in Romans chapter 5 as the Apostle Paul reminds us why grace is so amazing.

Peace of mind, peaceful sleep, peace and quiet, peace in the Middle East; there are so many kinds of peace we are all longing for. But the only peace that really matters for eternity is peace with God. Do you have it?

If there is one thing to be learned from the life of this patriarch Abraham, it is that faith in God requires more than simple obedience; it requires complete surrender. God sometimes asks us to let go of the one thing we hold most dear. In Abraham's case it was his son, Isaac. But as Abraham loosens his grip on his own possessions and tightens his grip on God's promises, he will teach us all a lesson about the type of faith that pleases God.

Have you ever wondered how a religion so opposed to Christianity can have so much in common with it? Why do Muslims call Abraham their father even when they don't believe in the God of Abraham? In the message Stephen unveils the cunning and deceptive secrets which undergird the fastest growing religion in the world.

Abraham was the father of many nations. He inherited the promise of God that through his seed all nations would be blessed. He was chosen directly by God to father a holy priesthood of people. But Abraham was also a hopeless case. He was old, and his wife was long past child-bearing years. There was no way, humanly speaking, he could father a son. But amidst the seemingly impossible situation, he never took his mind off the fact that when God makes a promise . . . He keeps it.

Why is Abraham called the Father of many nations? Who was Abraham anyway? What did God find so special about him? In this message, Stephen reminds why Abraham's story -- like your story -- is a story of grace.

Have you ever walked up to a stranger and asked, “If you were to die tonight, would God let you into Heaven?” If so, I bet that person responded with something like, “Well I’m a good person; I’ve never murdered anyone or committed adultery or robbed a bank.” Many people today believe the misconception that being “good enough” will get them into heaven. ” But in Romans 4:13-16, Paul silences that misconception in an emphatic way. As he points to his religious Jewish audience, full of people who believed that the Law of Moses would grant them entrance into Heaven, he reminds them (and us) that the standard for eternal life is not moral goodness . . . it’s perfection.

What was the point of circumcision in the Old Testament? Many Jews believed it was a sign of salvation and that without it you couldn't have a relationship with God. Were they right? Stephen answers that question and many more in this message.

Have you considered recently the amazing truth that even though God knows everything about you, He still loves you? No matter how many times you fail Him, He never fails you. No matter how many times you prove that you deserve hell, He offers you Heaven. These are just a few of the profound truths that Paul reveals to us in Romans chapter 4.

Churches all across America have problems--that's obvious. Some fail to reach out to their community; some are more committed to constructing buildings than building disciples; some have little passion in worship. But these are only symptoms of a greater problem: Christians are not only ignorant of what the Bible says, they are indifferent to what it means. In this message Stephen reminds us why a proper understanding of God's Word is not a trivial matter . . . it is sometimes a matter of life and death.

What's the big deal about Abraham? Why do Christians and Jews and Muslims alike fight to call him their "father"? What is his theological and historical importance? Paul gives us the answer in Romans 4.

What makes a person a saint? What earns someone such a significant title? Contrary to popular opinion, sainthood is not an award for the elite and pious; it is a gift to every child of God.

How is it possible that only one small church in Philippi supplied all of Paul's needs? Where were the thousands of other Christians who had been impacted by Paul's letters and visits? Sadly, the ministry of financial support has always been a minority operation.

More. Isn't that what we all want? More money. More time. More success. More friends. More likes on Facebook. The apostle Paul was a human just like us, so if he could learn the secret of contentment, so can we.

Our thought life can be a quiet killer. Bitterness, impurity, greed, hatred, and all kinds of malice take root in our minds before branching out in our actions. So if your thoughts are running rampant today, tune them out for half an hour and let Stephen give you something pure to think about.

Do you get a pit in your stomach when awaiting that diagnosis or that acceptance letter or that apology? Do you lose sleep sometimes? In truth, our bodily responses to external and internal pressures are inescapable. So when Paul tells us to get rid of anxiety, he isn't talking about physical ills; he's talking about spiritual ones. In a society that pours billions of dollars into medicating symptoms, Stephen takes us to the source of anxiety by giving us a remedy for the soul.

Of all the attributes Paul could have chosen to accentuate -- purity, integrity, honesty, humility, and so on -- gentleness seems a bit peripheral, doesn't it? But Stephen reminds us why it is quite the opposite.

The most tragic thing about church splits is that they often happen over a clash of personalities rather than a clash of doctrines. Perhaps you're one of the many who have experienced the pain of division firsthand. In this much needed look at church unity, Stephen challenges us to set our personal preferences aside and love each other as brothers and sisters in Christ.

Christians have always realized that the cross of Christ has the power to save. But did you know that it is also has the power to destroy? Join Stephen in this profound message as he reminds us what the cross of Christ destroys.

Ever since the Protestant Reformation, Justification by faith has been a hot topic. If we are saved by faith in Christ alone, what role does good works play in salvation? Paul said that salvation is by faith alone, but James said it is by faith plus works. So who is right? In this message Stephen shows us how they both are.

Old Testament saints went to Heaven by way of Jesus Christ just as we do today. They looked forward to His coming through the prophets as we look back on His coming through the Gospels. The plan of salvation has never changed -- only the sacrifice has!

We as humans are sinful and depraved so how can we ever hope to come before an awesome and holy God? There is only one bridge to God . . . and that is the cross of Jesus Christ. Have you walked across that bridge yet?