God takes a spiritually dead heart and makes it spiritually alive through regeneration, a process that involves a joint effort between God and the individual. This transformation is a key aspect of discipleship, and it is demonstrated externally through baptism, a physical symbol of a spiritual truth. The Bible teaches that belief always precedes baptism, and that baptism is a necessary step for those who have received the Holy Spirit and are seeking to live a life of obedience to God. [... more]

Generosity is an act of trust, shifting hearts from reliance on money to reliance on God. Financial wisdom from the Bible encourages believers to be good and faithful stewards of their resources, considering how their investments impact the world. [... more]

Radical joy of godly generosity is explored, highlighting the importance of secret, open-handed, cheerful, loving, and sacrificial giving. Christian generosity is different from the world's idea, and cultivating biblical attitudes can bring spiritual benefits. Financial experts discuss various topics, including canceling credit cards, combining inherited IRAs, paying mortgage payments during probate, and planning for life insurance and estate distribution. [... more]

Christian generosity is about serving a different master, giving sacrificially, and joyfully. Cultivating a biblical attitude about giving can bring spiritual benefits and fill us with joy from the Holy Spirit. When it comes to financial planning, it's essential to consider estate planning, life insurance, and trust funds to ensure a smooth wealth transfer. [... more]

Pastor Ernie Sanders leads a Bible study on Second Corinthians, discussing the importance of hell fire preaching and the dangers of the prosperity movement. He also addresses the Russia Ukraine war, the deployment of nuclear capable bombers, and the effectiveness of the patriot missile system in defending Ukraine. [... more]

True repentance involves a changed heart, a willingness to own and confront sin, and a genuine sorrow for one's actions. Without repentance, there is loss of joy, peace, hope, and the abundant life that Christ offers. Paul's letters, particularly Second Corinthians, emphasize the importance of repentance and the consequences of sin. [... more]

The psalmist in Psalm 119 reflects on the idea that even in situations where people forge lies against us, there can be hidden goodness and opportunities for growth and learning. A personal story of a car dealership's collapse and the subsequent struggles with rumors and lies is shared, highlighting the importance of trusting in God's protection and guidance, even in difficult times. [... more]

Paul urges believers to move toward the completion of their holiness by embracing three essential truths: holiness is the basis for our fellowship with God, holiness is accomplished through spiritual cleansing of flesh and spirits, and holiness is motivated by the fear of God. He emphasizes the importance of separating ourselves from sin and unto God, and living a holy life that is above reproach. [... more]

Paul's motivations for ministry are rooted in his personal relationship with Christ, driven by the constraining love of Christ and the fear of the Lord. He seeks to help others know and respect God, and his approach to ministry is characterized by integrity, persuasion, and a willingness to be controlled by Christ's love. [... more]

Ministers are called to have confidence in the Lord's resurrection, which cultivates a longing for his presence and fuels an ambition to please him. This ambition drives them to live by faith, not by sight, and to strive for the Lord's pleasure, even in the face of adversity and uncertainty. Ultimately, ministers anticipate the Lord's appraisal and seek to glorify him in all they do, walking by faith with confidence and starting with the end in view. [... more]

God offers an open invitation for his people to talk with him at any time about anything, and Dr. James Banks shares weekly biblical insight to help you learn to love to pray, emphasizing the importance of faith and the difference prayer can make in challenging times. [... more]

The Apostle Paul writes his second letter to the Corinthian church, addressing ongoing sin, exposing false teachers, and defending himself from accusations. He shares his personal struggles, including a thorn in the flesh, and explains how God uses suffering to produce spiritual growth, including humility, reliance on God, and compassion for others. [... more]

Paul defends his ministry against critics who judge him based on his physical appearance and speaking style, emphasizing that his letters are powerful because of their weighty theology and divine inspiration. He also addresses the issue of authority, boasting, and commendations, highlighting the importance of relying on God's commendation rather than human standards. [... more]

Paul defends himself against critics in Second Corinthians, emphasizing the importance of meekness and gentleness in leadership, and the need to rely on spiritual weapons, such as the word of God and prayer, rather than carnal means. He also discusses the proper exercise of authority, which is reluctantly asserted, productively exercised, and spiritually sustained. [... more]