Believers can recognize Jesus' voice, just as children recognize their parents' voices. Jesus' words create a distinction, exposing the hearts of those who reject him. The true shepherd's voice is recognized by his sheep, who follow him because they know his voice. God has spoken through creation, conscience, and Jesus himself, and his word is to be approached with reverence and obedience. [... more]

Jesus uses the metaphor of a shepherd and sheepfold to describe his role as the good shepherd, who brings sight to the blind and freedom to those who are captives, but is rejected by those who refuse to listen and follow him. [... more]

Church leaders can effectively engage with their local community by meeting with senior church leadership, understanding the church's mission and values, and participating in community events such as the Rotary Club and Chamber of Commerce. By doing so, they can identify and meet real needs in their community, leading to spiritual growth and a deeper sense of purpose. [... more]

When God calls us to step up, there's a cost. Nehemiah's story in the Bible shows us what it means to be a shepherd and have a shepherd's heart. It's not just about feeling bad for others, but about being moved to compassion and taking action. We need to see people the way Jesus sees them, with a sense of purpose and a plan. We need to care about the lost souls and the people we're serving, and be willing to make sacrifices to help them. Prayer and fasting can give us direction and invite God to take the lead. We need to come back to prayer and take action to move forward and do more for the kingdom of God. [... more]

When God calls us to step up, there's a cost involved, and it's not just about sacrificing a weekend or two. It's about being willing to give up our comfort, our security, and our status. Nehemiah's story in the Bible is a powerful example of what it means to be a shepherd and to have a shepherd's heart. It's about seeing people the way Jesus sees them, with compassion and love. We need to ask ourselves what moves us, what challenges us, and what motivates us to serve others. We need to be willing to pray and fast, not just to feel bad for others, but to be moved by their needs and to take action. We need to remember that God is still working, even in the midst of chaos and uncertainty, and that He has a plan for His people. We need to be the salt and the light in the world, and to seek His guidance and direction in all that we do. [... more]

A simple shepherd, David, was overlooked and misjudged by his family and society, but God saw his heart and chose him to be the next king. God's selection is not based on outward appearance or accomplishments, but on the heart's sincerity and love for Him. [... more]

The concept of God's kindness, or Chesed, is explored in the context of Jeremiah 33, where it is revealed that God's kindness is forever and builds towards forever. This understanding is connected to the idea of restoration, particularly in the context of Jerusalem, where God's presence is restored to the city and His children, Israel, are reunited with Him. The discussion also touches on the idea of God's kindness being pursued, like a sheepdog, and the importance of understanding the word 'forever' in the context of the Bible. [... more]

Islam is often perceived as a religion of peace, but some argue it is a political ideology of domination. Christians and Muslims worship different gods, with Allah being an idol of man's imagination, while the Christian God is Yahweh. Islam teaches salvation through submission to Allah and adherence to the five pillars, whereas Christianity emphasizes faith and the gift of God. Muslims view non-believers as second-class citizens, deserving of vitriol and outrage, and the world is divided between those who submit to Allah and the kafir. [... more]

The Bible warns Christians about the dangers of demonic forces and occult themes in entertainment, citing the example of King Saul's attempt to communicate with the dead through a medium. This raises questions about the nature of Samuel's appearance and whether it was a genuine divine message or a demonic spirit. The discussion highlights the importance of discernment and the need for Christians to stay away from anything that resembles the occult, as it can lead to spiritual deception and harm. [... more]

Pastor Greg Laurie explores the story of Judas Iscariot, a hypocrite who betrayed Jesus Christ, and the significance of Jesus' sacrifice for our sins. He delves into the Bible's teachings on heaven, faith, and the importance of understanding hypocrisy, ultimately leading listeners to consider their own relationship with Jesus Christ. [... more]

A discussion on the intersection of faith, politics, and identity, with a focus on the red-green alliance and its impact on Western society. The conversation also touches on the topic of aliens and UFOs, as well as personal stories of living with lung cancer and navigating tax season. [... more]

Jesus' declaration that he is the Good Shepherd, who gives his life for his sheep, is a powerful metaphor for his relationship with God and his followers. The Good Shepherd knows his sheep and is known by them, and he lays down his life for them. This concept is tied to the imagery of the barrier to access in the Old Testament, where Christ's death removed the veil between God and humanity. Jesus' words also introduce the idea of the New Covenant, where God's sheep are not limited to Israel but come from every tongue and tribe and nation. [... more]

Jesus teaches that he is the door to the sheepfold, emphasizing the exclusive way to salvation and the importance of recognizing him as the only mediator between God and man. He contrasts himself with false messiahs and thieves who try to lead people astray, highlighting the importance of following him to achieve eternal life and protection. [... more]

David's experience with King Saul and his own sinfulness is a reminder that God is our Good Shepherd, who prepares a table for us in the presence of our enemies and takes care of our needs. He guides us through trials and stays with us until the end, providing goodness and mercy all the days of our life. We must learn to trust in God's guidance and recognize our need for Him, just like David did when he said, 'The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.' [... more]

The Good Shepherd provides for His sheep, guiding them through life's challenges, comforting them in times of fear, and defending them against enemies. He restores their souls, leads them in paths of righteousness, and prepares a table for them in the presence of their adversaries. [... more]

Jesus Christ is the Good Shepherd who provides salvation, significance, and security to His sheep. He knows each one by name and cares for them personally, giving them eternal life and protecting them from harm. Those who trust in Him can have assurance of their salvation and know that they matter to God. [... more]

Jesus Christ is the Good Shepherd who lays down his life for his sheep, giving them salvation, significance, and security. He knows his sheep by name and calls them to follow him, promising eternal life and protection from harm. As believers, we can trust in God's love and care for us, knowing that we are in his hands and no one can snatch us out of his hand. [... more]

David's life was flawed from beginning to end, but he loved God and said, 'I have nothing to offer, I have nothing to commend myself to God except my great need.' He is the sheep, and God is the shepherd. We can learn from David's experiences and how he related Psalm 23 to the nitty-gritty of his life, even in the midst of struggles and hardships. [... more]

David, the author of Psalm 23, shares how he relates to the psalm despite his difficult life experiences, including persecution, family rejection, adultery, and loss, demonstrating that the Good Shepherd's comfort and protection are available to all, regardless of circumstances. [... more]

The importance of recognizing the difference between forgiveness and consequences, and the need for genuine repentance and discipline in the face of sin. A good shepherd guides us through life's challenges, including the valleys of despair, and leads us to restoration and intimacy with God. [... more]

Trials and discouragement are inevitable even for Christians But we are not left alone God is our Good Shepherd In this message from Psalm Pastor Lutzer explains how the Good Shepherd leads the wandering and restores the fallen Let's discover how His mercy reaches us in our deepest valley and brings us home This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount Get yours at https rtwoffer com or call us at - - - Moody Church Media https www moodymedia org home of Running To Win exists to bring glory to God through the transformation of [... more]

The Bible teaches that God is our shepherd, guiding us through life's challenges and providing us with the ultimate satisfaction and peace. Through the example of sheep and their dependence on a shepherd, we learn the importance of trusting in God's guidance and care, and recognizing our need for a personal relationship with Him. [... more]

The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. This statement of trusting belief will mean a lot more after understanding the intimacy of the relationship between a shepherd and his sheep. Jesus Christ, the Good Shepherd, cares for his sheep, providing them with green pastures, quiet waters, and protection from anxiety, hunger, and thirst. [... more]

Navigating grief and lament in marriage and blended families requires a nuanced understanding of the pain and sorrow involved. Western culture's emphasis on mastering grief can be detrimental, and the church often adopts this approach without realizing it. A healthy approach to grief involves lament, which is a process of turning to God in pain, complaining, asking, and trusting. This process is reflected in the scriptures and is essential for growth and deepening of faith. [... more]

John Newton, a former slave trader, recounts his life of sin and eventual conversion to Christianity, becoming a prominent figure in Christian history and influencing the abolition of the slave trade through his friendship with William Wilberforce. [... more]

Counterfeit verses can distort our understanding of God's character and financial stewardship, leading to a lack of discernment and dependence on ourselves rather than God. By immersing ourselves in the truth of Scripture, we can develop the ability to recognize these counterfeit verses and instead cultivate a deeper understanding of God's wisdom and guidance in our financial decisions. [... more]

The Bible teaches that we are all prone to wander and need a shepherd to guide us. Jesus is our shepherd, who provides complete satisfaction, controlled supply, and capable supervision. He leads us in the path of righteousness and gives us peace, solace, and restoration. We must learn to follow Him, even in difficult times, and trust in His presence and guidance. [... more]

The rejection of God's plan and purpose in life leads to spiritual collapse, false prophets, idolatry, and social decay. The judgment of God is evident in the consequences of sin and the rejection of His truth. The importance of repentance and a correct understanding of God's character are emphasized. [... more]

Church elders who remain faithful and set examples for their flock will receive a crown of glory, as described in 1 Peter 5:4 and Titus 1:7-9. These leaders must be blameless, sober, just, and holy, holding fast to sound doctrine and applying scriptures to all areas of life. They must not be motivated by filthy lucre, but rather serve willingly and with a ready mind. [... more]

Jesus meets Moses, the law, and Simeon, a righteous and devout man who has been waiting for the Messiah. Mary and Joseph follow the law by circumcising Jesus and presenting him to the Lord, and they offer sacrifices for purification. Simeon recognizes Jesus as the Messiah and blesses God, while Anna, a prophetess, also recognizes Jesus as the Messiah and speaks of Him to all who were waiting for the redemption of Jerusalem. [... more]

The birth of Jesus Christ is set against the backdrop of Caesar Augustus's decree, which required a census of the Roman Empire. However, God is ultimately in control, orchestrating events to bring about the fulfillment of prophecy and the birth of the Messiah. The shepherds, who were considered ceremonially unclean, are chosen to be the first human evangelists, delivering the good news of Jesus' birth to others, and their example serves as a model for biblical leadership and evangelism. [... more]

Choosing contentment is a daily path that comes from a surrendered heart, cultivated through walking with Christ. It's not found in having everything, but in knowing the one who is everything. A biblical approach to financial decisions and stewardship can help individuals navigate their finances and make wise investment choices, especially in retirement. Additionally, seeking help with debt and credit counseling can provide freedom and peace of mind. [... more]

The early Christian church faced persecution, and Apostle Peter wrote letters to encourage believers to stand firm in their faith, even in the face of adversity. Peter's own life, marked by failures and successes, influenced his writing and made his letters precious to every generation of Christians. His confession of faith, 'Jesus is the Christ,' became the bedrock of the church's creed, and his letters continue to inspire and guide believers today. [... more]

The Holy Spirit's outpouring brings about the last days, launches the kingdom of God, and transforms us to the hope of righteousness. Through faith, we trust Christ for salvation and the Holy Spirit's power to sustain us, overcome our struggles, and live as new creations in Christ. [... more]

The Holy Spirit's outpouring at Pentecost marks a turning point in human history, fulfilling God's ancient promise to send the Spirit and empowering believers for mission. Jesus, the ascended and exalted King, pours out the Spirit upon his people, giving them life and transforming them into new creations. The Spirit's presence is a down payment assuring believers of their eternal redemption and resurrection, and it transforms all people, bringing a permanent, internal renewal through faith. [... more]

The Christmas story reveals the heart of God and generosity through the lives of unlikely people, including the Magi, shepherds, Joseph, and Mary, who respond to God's love and sacrifice, demonstrating that generosity is not just about giving money, but about giving time, reputation, future, and life, and that increasing levels of generosity bring increasing levels of reward and blessing. [... more]

Jesus Christ is a stranger to us because our hearts are hardened by sin, but through the power of the Holy Spirit, he opens our eyes to see the reality of his physical resurrection, proving he is the Christ, Messiah, and Savior. The Holy Spirit takes our darkened minds and gives us spiritual comprehension, allowing us to understand the gospel and recognize Jesus as the risen King. Through word and sacrament, the Holy Spirit ignites the fire of faith within us, burning away sinful desires and stirring love for God and our neighbor. [... more]

God measures generosity not by the size of the gift, but by the size of the sacrifice. True generosity touches the deepest parts of who you are and what you value most, and is an act of love that cultivates intimacy with God and overflows into relationships. [... more]

The boy Jesus reveals his divine mission at the temple, demonstrating his unique connection to God the Father and setting the stage for his future saving work. His interaction with the temple teachers and his parents showcases his divine understanding and obedience, highlighting his awareness of his identity as the Son of God sent to seek and save the lost. [... more]

The angel Gabriel plays a pivotal role in the Christmas story, delivering the gospel message to Mary and the shepherds. His announcements proclaim the birth of Jesus, the Messiah, and the Savior of the world, emphasizing God's sovereignty and the gift of undeserved favor. [... more]