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Today's lesson explores the powerful ministry of John the Baptist and his uncompromising call to repentance. Set against the backdrop of corrupt political leaders and a compromised religious establishment, John emerges as God's prophet after four hundred years of silence, proclaiming a message that remains just as relevant today: "Repent, for the kingdom of God is at hand." Far from offering comforting platitudes, John confronts his listeners with the reality of God's coming judgment while simultaneously extending the gracious invitation of forgiveness through repentance and faith.   Through an examination of Luke 3:1-14, we explore the biblical meaning of repentance as a genuine change of heart that produces visible fruit in everyday life. Through John's interactions with the crowds, tax collectors, and soldiers, listeners are challenged to see repentance not as mere religious ritual or emotional regret, but as a transformed life marked by obedience, generosity, contentment, and a turning toward God. The message closes with a practical and personal challenge: identify areas that require repentance and respond to God's Word with humble faith, remembering that true repentance begins in the heart and results in a life increasingly shaped by Christ.   Thank you for listening to today's lesson.  We pray that through encountering the Holy God and His grace showered upon us through His Son, that we will be called to repentance; that change of heart resulting in changed lives that honor the Lord.   Below is a list of Scripture referenced in today's teaching: Luke 3:1-14, Luke 1:1-4, 80, Jeremiah 1:1-2, Ezekiel 1:1-3, Haggai 1:1, 2 Peter 1:21, Psalm 51:3-4, Psalm 51:17, James 4:8-9, Luke 13:3, 1 John 1:9, Isaiah 40:3-5, Luke 1:51-52, John 8:39-44, Isaiah 54:1, John 1:12-13, Isaiah 5:1-7, Romans 6:23, Luke 13:5

Many people wonder what Jesus was like as a child. While legends and later writings invented dramatic stories filled with miracles and adventures, Luke records only one inspired account from Jesus’ youth. In this episode, we explore Luke 2:40-52, examining the remarkable story of twelve-year-old Jesus remaining behind in Jerusalem and being found in the temple among Israel’s teachers. Through this unique glimpse into Christ’s childhood, we see both His genuine humanity as He grew in wisdom and stature, and His unique identity as the Son of God devoted to His Father’s will. The message highlights the wonder of the incarnation, the sinless perfection of Christ, and the astonishing wisdom that left the religious scholars amazed. As Mary and Joseph searched anxiously for their son, they discovered Him exactly where He knew He needed to be: in His Father’s house. This episode encourages listeners to marvel not at fictional accounts of Jesus’ childhood, but at the biblical portrait of the perfect Savior who succeeded everywhere humanity fails and whose righteousness makes salvation possible for all who trust in Him. Thank you for listening to today's teaching.  We pray you are encouraged by the by the person of Jesus, who even from a young age had to be about His Father's business, which ultimately led Him to the cross. Below is a list of Scripture passages referenced in today's lesson: Luke 2:40-52, Isaiah 53:2, Luke 1:80, Deuteronomy 16:16, Exodus 23:17, Philippians 2:7, Hebrews 2:14-17, Romans 1:3-4, Psalm 119:97-100, Romans 1:21-22, John 1:1-2, Mark 13:32, Luke 2:49, John 5:18

What if the most significant moments after Jesus’ birth reveal not only who He is, but why He came? In today’s teaching from Luke 2:21-40, we follow the infant Jesus through His circumcision, presentation at the temple, and recognition by Simeon and Anna. Along the way, this lesson highlights how every detail unfolds according to God’s Word, demonstrating Christ’s perfect obedience to the Law and His role as the promised Savior. As Simeon holds the Christ child, he declares that God's salvation has arrived, not only for Israel but for the nations, fulfilling promises centuries in the making. [2026-10-04...mer_Luke 2 | Word] This passage also points beyond Bethlehem to the cross. Today's teaching explores why the sinless Son of God underwent ceremonies intended for sinners, showing how Jesus became the perfect substitute who fulfilled every requirement of righteousness on behalf of His people. Through the testimonies of Simeon and Anna, we are challenged to respond to Christ with faith and hope, recognizing that there is no neutral ground when it comes to the Savior. The same Jesus who brought comfort and redemption to those who waited for Him then continues to call people to trust Him today. Thank you for listening to today's teaching.  We pray you are encouraged as we consider the wonderful birth in Bethlehem which ultimately led to the cross of Calvary. Today's lesson includes references to the following Scripture passages:  Luke 2:21-40, Galatians 4:4-5, Genesis 17:9-14, Deuteronomy 30:6, Luke 1:31, Matthew 1:21, Leviticus 12:1-8, Psalm 51:5, Exodus 13:1-2, Numbers 18:15-16, Matthew 3:15, 2 Corinthians 5:21, Hebrews 2:17, Isaiah 40:1-3, Isaiah 52:9, Romans 8:24-25, Isaiah 49:6, Acts 13:46-47, Isaiah 46:13, 2 Corinthians 1:20, Isaiah 8:14-15, Luke 12:51, John 1:10-11, Isaiah 53:3

Today's teaching walks us through the familiar Christmas account of Luke 2 and reveals the surprising ways God accomplishes His purposes. Set against the backdrop of the mighty Roman Empire and Caesar Augustus, this lesson highlights God's sovereign hand at work through world events to bring about the birth of Christ exactly as foretold. Throughout this message, we are invited to consider how God often works through what appears insignificant: a small town, humble parents, a feeding trough, and a group of lowly shepherds become the setting for the most significant event in human history. Today's passage emphasizes both the humanity and deity of Jesus, born as a helpless infant yet announced by heaven as "a Savior, Christ the Lord." Through the angel's proclamation and the shepherds' response, the sermon points to the heart of the gospel: Christ came for sinners, bringing peace with God and good news for all who believe. This encouraging exposition reminds listeners that no person or place is too small for God's attention and that the birth of Jesus remains a source of great joy, hope, and worship today. Thank you for listening to today's teaching.  We pray that as we dwell on the Christmas story, we are challenged, comforted and encouraged by the incredible revelation of the Christ Child in Bethlehem; and that we would together offer praise and worship for God's indescribable gift. Below is a list of all Scripture referenced in today's teaching.

Today's lesson invites us to trade the relentless stream of bad news for the greatest good news ever spoken—God’s promise of a suffering yet exalted Savior. This teaching walks through Isaiah 52:13–53:12, showing how the prophet foretold the coming of Christ with stunning clarity: the Servant who would be despised, rejected, pierced, crushed, and yet ultimately raised and glorified. Though the world counted Him as nothing, this passage reveals that His suffering was purposeful—He bore our griefs, carried our sorrows, and took upon Himself the judgment we deserved so that we might be declared righteous. This teaching highlights the breathtaking contrast at the heart of the gospel: the One marred beyond recognition is the same One who is “high and lifted up,” the Lamb who silently submitted to death and the Lord who now reigns in glory. Through His sacrifice, many are cleansed, justified, adopted, and given an eternal inheritance. Isaiah 53 becomes not only a portrait of Christ’s mission but a reminder of why His work matters for every sinner who needs redemption and every believer who needs hope. Thank you for listening to today's teaching.  We pray you are encouraged by this reminder of the Good News of Jesus Christ. Below is a list of Scripture passages referenced during in today's teaching: Isaiah 52:13–53:12; Philippians 2:5–11; Psalm 51; John 1:10–11; Matthew 13:54–57; John 3; Acts 4:27–28; Ephesians 1:3–14

In today’s lesson, Zechariah’s Spirit‑filled prophecy bursts forth like one of Scripture’s earliest Christmas hymns—announcing that God has visited His people with redemption, covenant faithfulness, and dawning light. This teaching traces how the Benedictus, Zechariah's song, celebrates God’s promises to David and Abraham, reveals John the Baptist’s role in preparing the road for the Lord, and climaxes with the arrival of the true Sunrise who scatters darkness and leads His people into peace. Zechariah’s song reminds us that God keeps His covenants, restores the fallen, and shines His saving light on those who sit in the shadow of death. This teaching calls listeners to respond as Zechariah did—with worship, gratitude, and renewed devotion. The coming Christ is not only the horn of salvation and the fulfillment of ancient promises; He is the Light who directs our feet into the way of peace. Today’s lesson invites us to behold the Lamb of God, rejoice in God’s tender mercy, and walk in holiness and righteousness all our days. Thank you for listening to today's teaching.  We pray you are encouraged through the unchanging promise of God's promises fulfilled ultimately in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Below is a list of Scripture passages referenced in today's teaching. Luke 1:67–80; Deuteronomy 33:17; 2 Samuel 7; 1 Chronicles 17; Genesis 12:1–3; Genesis 17:7; Genesis 22:18; Isaiah 59:8; Isaiah 60:1–5; Malachi 4:2; John 1:29; Revelation 22:5

Today's teaching confronts one of Scripture’s most sobering warnings: “Do not love the world.” Drawing from 1 John 2:15–17, the message exposes how the world’s system—its values, its idols, its subtle pull—stands in direct opposition to the Father. The teaching shows how even good things can become ultimate things, quietly replacing our enjoyment of God’s love and weakening our desire to do His will. Through vivid illustrations, warnings from church history, and the biblical pattern of “lust of the flesh, lust of the eyes, and the boastful pride of life,” listeners are challenged to examine their hearts honestly and identify where worldly affections may have taken root. This teaching also offers hope: the world and its desires are passing away, but the one who does the will of God abides forever. Today’s lesson reminds believers that doing God’s will begins with believing in Christ, continues with abiding in Him, and flourishes as we resist the world’s counterfeit promises. In a culture overflowing with distractions, this passage calls us back to eternal realities—urging us to cling to the Father’s love, reject the world’s lies, and walk in the lasting joy of obedience. Thank you for listening to today's teaching.  In the midst of such sobering teaching, we pray you are encouraged through the Gospel of Jesus Christ and God's magnificent promises to those who call upon the name of Jesus for salvation.   Below is a list of Scripture passages referenced in this teaching.   1 John 2:15–17; Psalm 97:10; Romans 12:9; John 17:23; Acts 17:24; John 3:16; John 1:10; James 4:4; Philippians 3:20; 1 John 3:4; 1 John 3:6; 1 John 3:8; 1 John 2:12–14; Luke 22:15; Mark 4:18–19; Genesis 3:1–6; Isaiah 51:6; John 6:26–29; Acts 16:25–31

For centuries, people have been trying to predict the timing of the Jesus' return.  Even in recent history, in 1988, 1994, 2012, and even a 2025 TikTok predicted His return in those years.  Despite the claim of some that they know the hour of His return, today's lesson reminds us that Scripture teaches the opposite: the Lord will come at an hour no one expects, like a thief in the night. This parallels the unpredictability of the first coming of Christ, which was marked by clear prophetic signs. Isaiah and Malachi foretold that before the Messiah appeared, God would send a forerunner to prepare the way. After 400 years of silence, that promise is fulfilled in Luke 1:57–66 with the birth of John the Baptist, a miraculous child given to Elizabeth and Zechariah in their old age. Their neighbors rejoice, recognizing God’s mercy, and the teaching highlights how Scripture consistently presents children as blessings rather than burdens. As the passage unfolds, the naming of John becomes a moment of obedience to God’s revealed word. While tradition suggested naming the child after his father, God had already declared his name to be John. Today’s lesson emphasizes that God’s word outranks custom, expectation, and even family pressure. When Zechariah writes “His name is John,” his tongue is immediately loosed, fulfilling the angel’s prophecy and prompting him to bless God. The community responds with awe, asking, “What then will this child be?”—a question that recognizes God’s special purpose for John as the forerunner of Christ. The teaching ultimately points listeners to rejoice in God’s faithfulness, trust His promises, and live in readiness for the return of the Lord. Thank you for listening to today's lesson.  We pray you are encouraged through the teaching of God's Word and the hope that is found in the Gospel of Jesus Christ. In addition to the main passage, the list below highlights other Scripture referenced in today's teaching. Luke 1:57–66; Isaiah 40:3–5; Malachi 3:1; Malachi 4:5–6; Genesis 17:10–12; Deuteronomy 30:6; Psalm 127:3–5; Psalm 113:9; Proverbs 17:6; John 1:29; Matthew 15:3; Genesis 30:1; 1 Samuel 1:6–7; Daniel 4:34–37

Today's lesson continues the study of Luke 1:39-55, exploring Mary’s visit to Elizabeth and the powerful truths found in Mary’s song of praise, often called the Magnificat. Through the remarkable meeting of these two women, listeners are reminded that God delights in accomplishing His purposes through those the world often overlooks. From Elizabeth’s Spirit-filled blessing to Mary’s joyful response, this passage reveals a God who keeps His promises, strengthens faith, and pours out grace on the humble. Central to the passage is the theme of the “great reversal” that runs throughout Scripture. God brings down the proud and exalts the humble, fills the hungry, and remembers His covenant promises. Mary recognizes that the child she carries is the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan, the Savior who would ultimately reverse humanity’s greatest misfortune through His life, death, and resurrection. This encouraging message invites listeners to trust the faithfulness of God, magnify Him in worship, and find hope in the mercy He extends to all who believe His Word. Thank you for listening to today's teaching.  We pray you are encouraged by the God who exalts the humble through the humiliation of His Son; the God who exchanged the glory of heaven for a lowly manger which ultimately led to a cross. Below is a listing of the Scripture passages referenced in this lesson: Luke 1:39-55, Luke 1:36-37, Hebrews 11:1, Exodus 4:1-9, Judges 6:11-40, 2 Kings 20:1-11, Luke 1:41-45, Luke 11:27-28, John 4:24, Matthew 15:8-9, Psalm 103:14-19, Isaiah 9:6-7, Psalm 110:1, James 2:14-26, Genesis 22:1-14, Hebrews 11:17-19, 1 Samuel 2:1-10, Isaiah 53:1, Philippians 2:5-11, Matthew 5:3, Matthew 5:5, Matthew 23:12, Genesis 3:15, Genesis 12:1-3, Galatians 3:6-9, Revelation 20:6, Psalm 34:18

What does it mean to truly recognize the voice of Jesus? In today's lesson, the speaker uses a simple story about answering a phone call from his sister to introduce one of the most beloved passages in Scripture: John 10 and Jesus' declaration, “I am the Good Shepherd.” Drawing from the healing of the man born blind in John 9 and the resistance of the Pharisees, We explore the contrast between those who hear Christ’s voice and follow Him and those who refuse to recognize Him despite clear evidence of His identity. Through a careful walk through John 10, listeners are challenged to consider whether they merely admire the moral teachings of Christianity or have come to know Jesus personally as the Lamb of God and the Shepherd of His sheep. The message highlights Christ’s saving work at Calvary, His continuing care and intercession for believers, and the assurance that His sheep are known by name, protected in His hand, and called to enjoy a living relationship with Him. Thank you for listening to today's teaching.  We pray you know the voice of the Shepherd, and are encouraged to walk with Him. Below is a list of the Scripture passages referenced during today's teaching: John 9, John 10:1-33, John 10:27-30, Acts 16:13-15, John 17, Romans 8:26, John 1:29

What happens when God asks someone to believe the impossible? This week's lesson explores the shocking announcement of Jesus' birth to a humble young woman from an insignificant town and reveals what it teaches us about the character of God. While the world encourages us to trust in positive thinking, Scripture calls us to something far greater: faith in a God who does what human beings cannot. From the virgin conception of Christ to the salvation of sinners, the Bible is a story of God accomplishing the impossible through His power, not ours. [2026-08-02...ke 1.26-38 | Word] Tracing God's promises from the Old Testament to their fulfillment in Jesus Christ, this lesson highlights the miraculous truth that the eternal Son of God entered human history to redeem His people. Mary's response, "Let it be done to me according to your word," becomes a model for every believer facing uncertainty, weakness, or seemingly impossible circumstances. When God makes a promise, His people can trust Him completely, because nothing is impossible with God. Thank you for listening to this week's teaching.  We pray you are encouraged through God's faithfulness to His promises. Below is a list of the Scripture referenced in today's teaching: Luke 1:26-38, Isaiah 9:1-2, John 1:46, Isaiah 53:2, Genesis 6:8, Ephesians 2:8-9, Matthew 1:21, John 1:1-14, John 1:15, John 5:18, Hebrews 1:3, 2 Samuel 7:12-16, Isaiah 9:6-7, Daniel 7:13-14, Genesis 1:2, Ezekiel 37:14, Hebrews 9:14, Romans 1:4, Psalm 91:4, Psalm 140:7, Genesis 18:14, Job 42:2, Jeremiah 13:23, Matthew 19:24-26, Revelation 11:15

In this concluding installment of Answering Mormons, today's teaching examines two of the most important questions in any religious discussion: Who is God? and How is a person saved? Drawing from both Mormon sources and the Bible, the preacher contrasts key Mormon teachings about God, Jesus Christ, and salvation with historic Christian doctrine. Particular attention is given to Mormon concepts of exaltation, works-based righteousness, and the claim that salvation comes only after a person has done all they can do. Beyond doctrinal comparison, this message equips Christians to engage Mormon friends and missionaries with both truth and compassion. Rather than merely identifying theological differences, this lesson emphasizes the importance of clearly presenting the biblical gospel of salvation by grace through faith in Christ alone. Listeners will come away better prepared to understand Mormon beliefs, evaluate them in light of Scripture, and confidently share the hope of the gospel with those who hold a different view of God and salvation. Thank you for listening to today's teaching.  We pray you are strengthened and encouraged in lovingly sharing your faith with those outside the Christian community. Below is a list of Scripture passages referenced in today's lesson: Jude 3, 2 Corinthians 11:3-4, Isaiah 40:25-26, 1 Corinthians 15:40-42, Jeremiah 17:9, Proverbs 14:12, Proverbs 28:26, Isaiah 64:6, Romans 3:10-18, Romans 6:23, Hebrews 9:27, Galatians 1:8-9, 2 Corinthians 11:14-15, Romans 5:6-9, Ephesians 1:3, Hebrews 10:14, Numbers 23:19, Deuteronomy 6:4, 1 Samuel 2:2, Hebrews 13:8, Hebrews 6:18, Ephesians 2:8-9, Jude 17-25

In this second installment of Answering Mormons, today's lesson continues a biblical examination of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and the claims upon which Mormonism is built. Beginning with the central role of Joseph Smith, the discussion explores how Scripture calls believers to test prophets, revelations, and religious movements. Using passages from both the Old and New Testaments, this message evaluates Joseph Smith's claims as a translator, his prophecies, and his assertion of additional revelation beyond the Bible. The episode also addresses some of the most significant theological differences between biblical Christianity and Mormonism, including the nature of God, the authority of Scripture, and the concept of ongoing prophetic revelation. While critically examining Mormon teachings, the message emphasizes the Christian responsibility to engage Mormons with compassion, biblical truth, and the hope of the gospel, recognizing every conversation as an opportunity to point people to the saving work of Jesus Christ. Thank you for listening to today's teaching.  We pray you are encouraged through the teaching of God's Word and to be strengthened to recognize false teaching through the fervent study of Scripture. Below is a list of Scripture passages referenced in today's teaching: Jude 3, 2 Corinthians 11:3-4, Proverbs 30:5-6, Psalm 147:19-20, Romans 3:1-2, John 4:22, Hebrews 1:1-2, Deuteronomy 18:21-22, Deuteronomy 13:1-4, Acts 17:11, Genesis 1, John 1:1, Acts 9, Jude 17-23

Today's lesson begins a practical and biblically grounded examination of Mormonism (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints) and how Christians can thoughtfully engage with Mormon missionaries and teachings. Prompted by a recent personal encounter with LDS missionaries, the preacher explores the biblical call to "contend earnestly for the faith" and explains why understanding the claims of Mormonism is an important aspect of Christian discipleship and evangelism. The discussion focuses on the foundational role of Joseph Smith within Mormon theology, examining his claimed visions, the origins of the Book of Mormon, and the biblical standard for testing those who claim prophetic authority. Throughout the message, listeners are encouraged not merely to identify doctrinal differences, but to be prepared to lovingly and confidently share the gospel with those who may sincerely believe they have found the truth while embracing a different understanding of God, Christ, and salvation. Thank you for listening to today's teaching.  We pray you will be encouraged to contend earnestly for the faith. Below is a list of Scripture passages referenced in today's lesson: Jude 3-4; 22-23, 1 Peter 3:15, Galatians 1:8-9, Ezekiel 3:18-19, 1 Corinthians 14:29, Acts 17:10-11, John 5:31-39, Matthew 16:18, James 1:5-6, John 21:20-23, Deuteronomy 19:15

This past fourth of July marked 250 years of our nation's history.  Celebrations around the freedoms enjoyed as citizens of the United States of America abound.  Along with these celebrations, however, there is an on going debate around our freedoms; intensified by the fact that 2026 is an election year.  Democrat and Republican candidates alike use language such as, "Democracy is on the ballot," or, "Our freedoms are at stake;" with each side accusing the other of trying to take away our freedoms.  All the debate around freedom begs the question, "What is freedom?" In this week's lesson, presented on July 5, 2026, we contrast the academic and cultural ideas around freedom with what Scripture defines as freedom.  As we do so, we will look at this topic under three headings: What freedom is not What freedom is The source of freedom. Thank you for listening to today's teaching.  We pray that you will be blessed and encouraged as we consider what God's Word teaches about freedom.