THE PODCAST

In this compelling sermon, Pastor Ben explores Israel's tragic embrace of paganism and its impact on their relationship with Yahweh. He examines Jephthah's misguided vow, which reflected Israel's tendency to treat Yahweh like a pagan deity, and draws parallels to contemporary idolatry. Highlighting the dangers of a transactional approach to God, Pastor Ben urges listeners to worship Yahweh as King rather than trying to manipulate Him for personal gain. Join us for a powerful message on genuine faith and the consequences of mixing true worship with cultural idols.

Shechem was decimated, and Abimelech died because choosing a leader and being a leader are both actions for which we are held accountable. We often think and say, “God will hold accountable people who use their influence to lead others astray!” That’s true. However, equally true is that God will hold us all accountable for whom we choose to follow. Let us all consider where we’re going because whether we’re in the lead or being led, we will be held accountable for where we end up.

In life, a good ending is not made at the end but in the day-to-day moments that follow a good start. It's important to reflect on who got us to where we are, what our purpose is, and what instructions we've been given for living. We're all writing an ending to our lives, so it's important to consider what kind of ending we making by the life we're living today. Success comes from recognizing and continuing what led to our original success.

Gideon experienced spectacular victory, not because of his might, not because of his power, not because of anything in himself, chance or developed, but because of his repeated humble obedience to God’s simple commands. The product of victory comes through the process of obedience. We can only expect the product of victory if we are willing to submit ourselves to the process of obedience. Daily obedience. Hourly obedience. Over the course of a lifetime.

The reality for Gideon and for Israel was that they could not have victory and freedom from their bondage until they actually started demonstrating faith in what God had clearly said. And we are no different. We so often find ourselves experiencing the simple consequences of our own idolatry, of what we choose to believe. Belief affects behavior. And we cannot experience the freedom and victory God wants to give until we start demonstrating real faith in His Word by our obedience.

God is in the business of delivering His people, and He does so through human agents. However, He is no respecter of persons and He does not hesitate to use and give honor to a seemingly lesser vessel.

God’s people often wallow around in the consequences of their own actions for years or even decades, but God is willing to get His hands dirty in the messes His people make and is faithful to deliver them if and when they cry out for His deliverance. Step one in overcoming sin is to acknowledge that I’m the problem.

Through history, God has chosen to bring about good in the world by His Spirit working through people. God wants to use you to accomplish good in the world. Are you a vessel God can use to bring about deliverance?