Acts of the Apostles | Authentic Ministry - Episode 41

As we continue to look at Paul's letter to the Thessalonians in this episode, it becomes clear that Paul believed saving faith would result in a changed life and lifestyle. This change of lifestyle would result in persecution. Paul expressed gratitude for a visible and tangible Christianity, even in the face of persecution. He was not commending spectators but instead a genuine, living, tangible faith.

In this episode, Bill Rice underscores the need to stay committed to Bible beliefs and the importance of understanding and preserving traditions. His refrain to “leave the stones alone” is a call to understand and carry on the mission of the previous generation.

In this episode, we reference the time in Jewish history when King Josiah initiated reforms in the temple, eradicated idolatry, and introduced nationwide changes based on the law of Moses. The prophet Jeremiah, however, accused the nation of using the temple for criminal activities. He emphasized the importance of authentic worship and personal connection with God, warning against superficiality—a warning ancient Jews and Christians alike would do well to heed.

In this episode, we begin a study in the first epistle of Paul to the Thessalonians. This young yet vibrant church was living in a hostile world, and Paul’s concern was that the church be strong in the midst of a contrary culture. This strength that we are also to have happens only through the grace of Jesus Christ. Paul could endure only by grace and peace, and this is what would be required for the Church in Thessalonica to persevere and serve faithfully in their world.

In this episode, we dive into Acts 19:13-41 and explore the story of Paul's third missionary journey in Ephesus. Paul continued to evangelize and preach the gospel boldly. However, this was not without opposition, and he faced the formidable powers of darkness manifesting in the form of satanic, pagan ritual and culture in Ephesus.

Through this story, we learn about the reality of demonic spiritual powers and the importance of being rooted in God's word, prayer, and repudiation of sin. We also discuss the relevance of this story in our modern lives and how we can apply these principles to overcome the schemes of the enemy in our own spiritual journeys.

Hannah, unable to bear children, turns to God in prayer, acknowledging His greatness and her humility. She asks for a son, promising to dedicate him to God. This story emphasizes the power of prayer, offering comfort, presence, and peace. It encourages us to bring our burdens to God, exchange them for His yoke, and ask for His help.

The resurrection of Jesus Christ not only validates Jesus' claims but also brings hope, forgiveness, salvation, and eternal life. The power of the resurrection frees us from worry, doubt, and anxiety, encouraging personal transformation and making an eternal impact.

In this episode, the prophet Isaiah's words give us a glimpse of how God himself became a man, suffered for our sins, and was cut off for us. Despite our sins, we can be saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ. As Christians, we ought to walk away from this reflection with a deep sense of gratitude and a humble faith in Jesus, who did all of this to save us.

In this episode, Pastor dives into the story of Paul's ministry in Ephesus, where he faced powers and principalities of darkness. We examine how Paul used the word of God as his primary weapon to combat the occultic demonic activity in the city, and how his example can show us how to share our faith more boldly and persistently.

In this episode, we look at the process outlined by the apostle John in the first five verses of the fifth chapter of 1 John. Grace is the means by which God saves us, and this grace is accessed through faith. While this is true of salvation. It is also true in the day today. God's grace is still available (and essential), and it is accessed the same way. In this sermon, we are brought back to the simple truth that saved us but that also has the power to transform us if we would simply avail ourselves to it.

In this sermon, Pastor John takes us back to the fundamentals of the faith, challenging us to love others through our actions. Drawing from the old commandment—the Golden Rule—he reminds us that love is not just a feeling but a conscious decision to put others before ourselves.

In this podcast episode, we dive into the second chapter of 1 John, where John presents two truths and three tests in regards to cleanliness as a result of fellowship with God. We explore John's passionate love for God that he wanted to pass on to those he pastored. The focus of this episode is on the importance of Christ as our advocate and propitiation, who can pay for our sins and restore us to fellowship with God. We also discuss the three tests, a mental test, emotional test, and physical test, that we can use to evaluate our relationship with God and whether it is producing a clean life. Join us as we examine these invaluable truths that John wanted to impart and gain insights into living a joyful and clean life in fellowship with God.

In this episode, we delve into the story of Barabbas and what it represents for us as individuals. The story takes us through Jesus' final days on earth, from his triumphant entry into Jerusalem to the mock trial before Pilate. We learn about the choices made by those involved in the story and how they relate to our own choices today. The question of "what shall I do with Jesus?" is an important one for us to consider, as it represents the choice we all must make between good and evil, between Christ and Barabbas. Join us as we explore what it means to choose Christ and honor Him with our lives.

The Holy Spirit is not some accessory but is vital to the Christian experience. Without Him, we are not saved, and after salvation, He is the agent of change and Christlikeness in our lives.

Be known as a servant of the church.

Salvation comes through Jesus Christ alone, and it is in Him that a saved person finds his identity. The identity of Christ is that of a servant, and Christ expects us to live consistent with our identities.

In this episode, we discuss the events of chapters 18-19 in the book of Acts. Pastor emphasizes the importance of opening up our lives to new people, just as Priscilla and Aquila did with Apollos, as friendship and hospitality can bear eternal fruit.

Parenting is a challenging task, but the gospel offers a transformative perspective, providing hope and guidance. It helps parents understand their role and navigate difficulties. The gospel's impact extends beyond parenting, bringing about radical change in all aspects of life. It reveals our purpose as parents and provides the hope we need to face each day with confidence.

In this episode, we once again dive into the parable of the prodigal son, emphasizing the elder brother's resentment and the father's plea for reconciliation and unity. It is naive to think we can be right with the Father without being right with those he loves. The elder brother actually demonstrates a resentment for the Father and the love that was part of his nature.

In this episode, we discuss the conclusion of Paul’s second missionary journey, traveling from Corinth to Syria, with a stopover in Ephesus. Joined by Priscilla and Aquila, they established a church in Ephesus. Paul fulfills vows in Jerusalem and Antioch, then strengthens disciples in Galatia and Phrygia. His preaching about Christ and salvation sparks interest. Despite initial plans, he stays longer in Ephesus after discussions with Priscilla and Aquila, marking the start of his third journey.

Good things don't just happen, and marriage is no exception to that rule. We must provide for that which we want to see in our marriages.

We are all somewhere in relation to the Father. Where are you? He’s waiting to cover you; he’s waiting to embrace you.

In this episode, Pastor Dorrell emphasizes the importance of community and connection in overcoming life's challenges. He draws parallels between the experiences of Apostle Paul and modern Christians, highlighting the need for support and encouragement from friends and fellow believers. He encourages overcoming isolation, embracing open-mindedness, and listening to different perspectives, even when challenging.

In this episode, we explore the parable of the prodigal son, a tale of a young man who disrespects cultural norms by asking for his inheritance prematurely. He leaves his family and Jewish heritage to live among the Gentiles, squandering his wealth on reckless and immoral living. Eventually, he hits rock bottom, unable to pay his debts, and decides to return to his father. We are reminded that we must come to God on His terms, approaching Him with humility and repentance, recognizing that salvation is not earned through works or bargaining but through faith in Jesus Christ and His sacrifice.

In this episode, Pastor Andrew urges us to consider our lives and the legacies we wish to leave behind. We are reminded of the importance of values like kindness, forgiveness, and charity and are encouraged to live for what truly matters to God.

This episode challenges our perspective on wealth and life's true purpose. Pastor Dorrell emphasizes the importance of living on less, being rich towards God and others, and aligning our choices with God's priorities.

In this episode, we explore the parable of the prodigal son in Luke 15. Jesus tells this story to religious leaders who are critical of his association with sinners. The parable highlights the themes of redemption, grace, and celebration, reminding us that there is always hope for those who have strayed to return to their Father's love. We are all prodigals who have squandered God's goodness, but God longs to forgive and welcome us back. The story is a call to turn from self-righteousness and hypocrisy and to extend love, kindness, and grace to others. Join us as we dive into this powerful reminder of God's grace and love.

In this episode, we explore the power of taking small initiatives in our faith. Through the story of Ruth, we see how taking small steps in difficult circumstances can lead to God's limitless intervention. We're encouraged to take initiative in our faith, even when it's hard or uncertain, and trust that God will respond and use our small actions to accomplish great things.

In this powerful message, we explore how Jesus purposefully enters the small town of Nain, where a widow is mourning the loss of her only son. Despite her emotional and financial desperation, Jesus shows up and offers more than just compassion - He provides a solution. He confronts our tendency to carry shame and devastation, assuming that nothing can be done, and invites us to humble ourselves and ask for His help. Don't miss this encouraging reminder that God can intervene in our darkest moments and turn our funeral processions into victorious marches.