Riot Podcast

“????? ?? ?????, ?????? ?? ??? ??????? ????” is the topic that will be discussed today on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast Exploring the remarkable parallels between the Exodus of Moses and the life of Jesus during a recent expedition to Egypt and Israel, we uncover a rich tapestry of historical and spiritual significance. These six key stops on the journey shed light on the connections between the past and our present: Egypt and Moses: Delving into the story of Moses and Ramses II, we witness the biblical account of Moses leading the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt. The divine interventions, plagues, and the eventual release of the Israelites from bondage are explored. Temples of Egypt: The temples of ancient Egypt played a pivotal role in both religious and cultural life. They were places of worship and centers of social and political activity. The significance of these temples in Moses’ time is considered, highlighting their importance in maintaining cosmic balance. Mount Sinai: Mount Sinai, where Moses received the Ten Commandments, stands as a holy and awe-inspiring location. The duration of the Israelites’ stay there is discussed, along with any personal experiences of the expedition. Temple Mount in Israel: Examining Jesus’ cleansing of the temple, we reflect on his critique of commercialization and corruption in places of worship. The question of what Jesus might think about present-day Israel and its temples is posed. Mount of Olives: The Mount of Olives holds profound importance in the life of Jesus, from his teachings to his ascension. The role of this location in his ministry is explored. Capernaum: Capernaum, where Jesus found his first disciples and performed numerous miracles, is examined. The expedition’s observations and experiences in this town are shared. Additionally, the discussion delves into the prophetic return of the Israelites to the Promised Land and the potential construction of a Third Temple. Quotes from Hebrew prophets are cited, and questions about the nature of this temple and its implications are raised. Furthermore, the historical milestones of Israel’s establishment in 1948 and the Six-Day War in 1967 are highlighted for their global significance. These events have shaped the dynamics of our world and are explored in the context of the expedition’s discussions. As for the possibility of building a Third Temple near the Dome of the Rock, the potential challenges and implications, including the risk of conflict, are acknowledged. Overall, this extraordinary journey through the biblical and historical landscapes of Egypt and Israel reveals the deep connections between the past and the present, offering insights into faith, prophecy, and the enduring significance of these sacred locations..

” ??????????? ?????????? ??? ????????” is the topic that will be discussed today on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast Celebrating Milestones and Memories of The Riot Podcast with Barry, Bob, and Pete. The Riot Podcast’s journey through 150 episodes is a remarkable achievement in the world of Christian podcasts. This trio of hosts, Barry, Bob, and Pete, have not only provided insightful content but have also fostered a sense of community among our listeners. Here are some thoughts on celebrating our milestones and memories: Reflecting on Growth: It’s incredible to see how The Riot Podcast has evolved over time. Starting with humble beginnings, it has grown into a platform that influences and inspires many in their Christian faith journey. The hosts’ dedication and commitment to their mission are truly commendable. Diverse Perspectives: The Riot Podcast has been a platform for diverse Christian perspectives. Barry, Bob, and Pete has created a space where listeners can explore various aspects of Christianity, from theology to everyday life issues. This diversity of content has been a significant factor in our success. Impactful Topics: Throughout our 150 episodes, The Riot Podcast has tackled important and sometimes controversial topics within Christianity. We engaged in thoughtful discussions on issues like faith and politics, social justice, and personal growth. These discussions have often sparked meaningful conversations among our listeners. Community Building: The Riot Podcast has not only informed but also built a community of like-minded individuals who share their faith. Our social media engagement, live events, and listener feedback have created a sense of belonging among our listeners. Memorable Moments: Over 150 episodes, there have undoubtedly been numerous memorable moments—funny anecdotes, heartfelt testimonials, and thought-provoking discussions. These moments have left a lasting impression on the podcast’s audience. Challenges and Triumphs: Like any long-running podcast, The Riot has faced its fair share of challenges. From technical difficulties to navigating sensitive topics, the hosts have demonstrated resilience and adaptability. These challenges have ultimately contributed to our growth and maturity as podcasters. Future Endeavors: As we celebrate this significant milestone, it’s worth pondering what the future holds for The Riot Podcast. Perhaps we will continue to expand our reach, explore new formats, or delve deeper into specific topics within Christianity. Listener Appreciation: The Riot Podcast’s success wouldn’t be possible without its dedicated listeners. Taking the time to express gratitude to our audience for their support and engagement is essential during this milestone celebration. Legacy of Impact: As The Riot Podcast moves forward, it’s evident that we left a lasting legacy in the world of Christian podcasting. We have not only educated and entertained but have also challenged our listeners to grow in their faith and understanding. In conclusion, celebrating the 150th episode of The Riot Podcast is an opportunity to reflect on our journey, appreciate the impact we have had, and looking forward to the future with excitement and anticipation. We created something special, and our dedication to Christianity and to our listeners is truly commendable.

” ??????????????? ?? ??????? ?????? ??????”! is the topic that will be discussed today on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast In pondering the profound questions of existence and purpose, we can approach them from two distinct perspectives: a mission-minded worldview and a maintenance-minded one. A mission-minded individual sees the world through the lens of a higher purpose, often rooted in faith. They believe that their existence is tied to fulfilling a divine mission, one where they seek to align themselves with God’s will and love for all. This perspective emphasizes selflessness and a surrender to the greater good. In contrast, a maintenance-minded person tends to be more self-focused, driven by personal gain, and often caught up in solving their own problems. In the business world, a mission statement serves as a concise statement of purpose, encapsulating a company’s culture, values, and ethics. Key characteristics of a mission-minded person include a commitment to making disciples, recognizing the importance of sharing the message of their faith, and meeting human needs while also spreading their beliefs. They view their mission as a way of life, not just a task, and prioritize building relationships with diverse individuals, echoing Jesus’ approach to his ministry. Additionally, mission-minded individuals commit to showing love and tolerance even to those with differing views, aiming to be a beacon of grace and humility. They also celebrate and support fellow Christians working towards advancing the kingdom of God in the public sphere, fostering unity rather than competition among different faith communities. In essence, a mission-minded perspective seeks to answer the fundamental questions of existence and purpose by aligning one’s life with a higher calling, driven by faith and a commitment to love, service, and relationship-building.

” ??????????????? ?? ??????? ?????? ??????”! is the topic that will be discussed today on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast A mission-minded person is someone who lives with a deep sense of purpose and commitment to sharing the message of Jesus Christ with others. They exhibit several key characteristics: Desire to Connect with Non-Believers: Mission-minded individuals actively seek out non-believers for conversations and friendships, following Jesus’ plan to work in His harvest. Creative Gospel Sharing: They continuously look for creative and personalized ways to share the gospel, adapting their approach to each person or group they encounter, taking risks and avoiding a one-size-fits-all presentation. Global Perspective: These individuals possess a broader worldview, thinking beyond their immediate surroundings. They understand that the gospel is meant for all people, everywhere, and are committed to spreading it globally. Obedience to God’s Call: Mission-minded people hear and obey God’s voice, whether it leads them to share their faith across the street, in another town, or even in another country. Their response is like Isaiah’s declaration, “Here I am, send me.” Prayerful Life: They maintain a strong connection with God through prayer, believing in the potential for God to do remarkable things. Their faith is reflected in their consistent and fervent prayer life. In summary, mission-minded individuals are driven by a deep passion to share the gospel with others, guided by their faith in God’s call, and sustained by a life of prayer and obedience to His will. They embrace a global perspective and employ creative approaches to connect with people from all walks of life, living out the teachings of Christ with sincerity, love, and compassion.

?? ?? ???? ?????????? ????? ?? ?????? ?????? ???? ?? ?-?? Now is the topic that will be discussed today on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast In exploring John 20:1-18 and delving into the resurrection of Jesus, we uncover a pivotal moment in the Christian faith. This event highlights the profound transformation from confusion to clarity that Jesus’ followers experienced as they gradually realized His resurrection. Mary Magdalene’s encounter at the empty tomb, where she initially thought Jesus was dead, showcases the profound impact of comprehending the truth of His resurrection. The journey of Mary, Peter, and John underscores the complexity of their faith during that period. Despite Jesus’ prior predictions of His resurrection, their understanding was shaped by the limited context of the Old Testament. The empty tomb challenged their expectations and ignited a deeper spiritual comprehension. Mary’s encounter with the angels and Jesus Himself is a poignant reminder of the new reality established by Jesus’ resurrection. Her impulse to hold onto Him reflects the desire to keep what was found, but Jesus’ words to not cling suggest a transition to a new relationship, one characterized by faith and the realization of His expanded role beyond the physical realm. The narrative prompts us to consider the significance of faith grounded in both evidence and the Word. While evidence supports our beliefs, it should ultimately guide us to a personal relationship with the living Lord. The resurrection isn’t just a doctrine to defend; it’s an invitation to intimately know the risen Savior. In conclusion, John 20:1-18 beautifully portrays the transformative power of understanding the resurrection. It highlights the evolution of faith, from uncertainty to conviction, and the profound impact of encountering the living Christ. The resurrection’s central role in the Christian message remains a testament to the hope, salvation, and personal connection offered through Jesus’ victory over death.

??? ????, ??? ????! is the topic that will be discussed today on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast In this episode, we discussed ??? ????, ??? ????! In the context of marriage, “His Will, Our Love” underscores the significance of a relationship built on mutual respect, support, and shared faith. As a couple, we recognize that our love story is a part of God’s greater narrative. This recognition inspires us to seek His guidance in every aspect of our marriage, from major decisions to everyday interactions. It means embracing challenges as opportunities for growth, relying on God’s grace to sustain us through the highs and lows. The concept also encourages us to keep our hearts open to God’s leading. While we may have our desires and plans, we acknowledge that they are subject to God’s overarching purpose. Our love for Him allows us to accept detours and redirections, understanding that they may lead us to unexpected blessings and outcomes that align more perfectly with His divine intention. In essence, “His Will, Our Love” embodies a dynamic partnership between the divine and the human. It’s a testament to the power of faith, love, and surrender, as we navigate life’s journey with humility, gratitude, and an unwavering belief that our love, guided by His will, can create a profound impact on our lives and the lives of those around us.

???? ??? ??? ????????? ????? ?? ???? is the topic that will be discussed today on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast In this episode, we discussed ???? ??? ??? ????????? ????? ?? ????. Throughout the Bible, God is referred to by various names, each carrying a unique significance that reflects different aspects of His nature, character, and relationship with humanity. These names provide a deeper understanding of God’s attributes and how He interacts with His creation. In this exploration, we will delve into 14 names of God found in the Hebrew Scriptures, highlighting their meanings, contexts, and the profound insights they offer. • EL, ELOAH: The Mighty and Forgiving God • ELOHIM: The Creator, Mighty, and Strong • EL SHADDAI: The Almighty God • ADONAI: The Lord • YHWH / YAHWEH / JEHOVAH: The Self-Existent One • YAHWEH-JIREH: The Lord Will Provide • YAHWEH-RAPHA: The Lord Who Heals • YAHWEH-NISSI: The Lord Our Banner • YAHWEH-M’KADDESH: The Lord Who Sanctifies • YAHWEH-SHALOM: The Lord Our Peace • YAHWEH-ELOHIM: The LORD God • YAHWEH-TSIDKENU: The Lord Our Righteousness • YAHWEH-ROHI: The Lord Our Shepherd • EL-GIBHOR: Mighty God The names of God in the Bible provide an intricate tapestry of His character, attributes, and relationships with humanity. Each name carries profound meanings that inspire awe, trust, and devotion. From “El” to “El-Gibhor,” these names unveil God’s roles as Creator, Provider, Healer, Shepherd, and more. They reveal His intimate involvement in the lives of His people and His desire to be known and experienced in various aspects. As we explore these 14 names, we gain insights into God’s boundless love, grace, mercy, and power. These names remind us that God is not a distant deity but a personal and present God who interacts with us on a deep and meaningful level. They invite us to draw closer to Him, seeking His guidance, comfort, and transformation. Ultimately, the diverse names of God in the Bible serve as a reminder of His multifaceted nature. While we have explored 14 names in this discussion, there are countless other names and titles that further reveal God’s character. Through a comprehensive understanding of these names, we can cultivate a richer and more profound relationship with the Almighty—one that acknowledges His sovereignty, finds solace in His peace, and rejoices in His provision.

????’? ??? ????? ??? ????? ??? ????? is the topic that will be discussed today on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast In this episode, we discussed What’s the bible say about the money. The Bible provides valuable insights about money, a subject of great importance in our lives. It’s not surprising, given its significance in society. Some of these teachings are well-known, while others are lesser-known. Money is essential for our survival, enabling us to meet our basic needs like food, shelter, and health. Needing money is natural, but the issue arises when we prioritize it over trusting in God to provide for us. As 1 Timothy 6:10 warns, “For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil…” Some people have strayed from their faith due to their craving for money, leading to sorrow. Let’s explore three key aspects concerning money from a biblical perspective. First, proper financial management demands balance in our lives. Laziness, as Proverbs 6:6-11 explains, can lead to financial ruin. Being diligent workers is vital. On the other extreme, being obsessed with accumulating wealth is also cautioned against, as Ecclesiastes 5:10 points out. Trusting in God, not money, is crucial. Moreover, the Bible encourages us to be good stewards of what God has given us. This stewardship principle emphasizes using money in ways that honor Him. Luke 16:1-13 presents a parable to emphasize the importance of responsible stewardship. Transitioning to another topic, the Bible provides guidance on debt. Romans 13:8 advises against owing anything except love to one another. This highlights God’s disapproval of debt that isn’t managed properly. Psalm 37:21 further underscores the importance of righteous behavior in repaying debts. In ancient Israel, charging interest on loans to the poor was prohibited, aiming to prevent worsening their situations. Similarly, Christians are urged to help others without escalating their difficulties. A parable in Matthew 18:23-35 illustrates forgiveness and compassion in this context. Lastly, the Bible addresses saving money. Saving is deemed wise, as God is our ultimate provider. However, saving out of fear contradicts trusting in God’s provision. The Bible encourages cheerful giving and highlights the principle that giving leads to receiving, as seen in passages like 2 Corinthians 9:7 and Luke 6:38. In essence, the Bible’s teachings about money revolve around wisdom. We’re called to be wise stewards, saving and spending with discernment, giving joyfully, and using our resources to help others. Loving money is discouraged, but utilizing wealth for good purposes is endorsed. By following these principles, we can navigate the complex world of finances while maintaining a healthy spiritual outlook.

????????? ??????????? ?? ?????? is the topic that will be discussed today on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast In this episode, we discussed Consequences of Not Listening. The story of Moses teaches us about the consequences of not listening and obeying God’s commands. Despite being a great leader and a faithful servant, Moses faced a moment of weakness and disobedience that led to significant repercussions. In the incident at the waters of Meribah Kadesh, Moses and Aaron were commanded to speak to a rock to bring forth water, but Moses, frustrated and angry, struck the rock instead. This act of disobedience, coupled with Moses taking credit for the miracle, showed a lack of trust in God’s plan and a failure to honor His holiness. As a result, God declared that Moses would not be allowed to enter the Promised Land, the destination he had led the Israelites towards for 40 years. While the punishment may seem harsh, it emphasizes the importance of obedience and faith in God’s instructions. Moses’ actions undermined the symbolic representation of Christ, the rock from which living water flows, and demonstrated a lack of faith in God’s provision. However, despite this consequence, God remained compassionate towards Moses. He allowed Moses to see the Promised Land from a distance before his death and continued to use him as a faithful leader. Moses’ story teaches us the significance of listening and obeying God, even when faced with challenges and frustrations. Like Moses, we may encounter obstacles and changes in our journey, but seeking God’s guidance and obeying His new strategies for our lives can lead to victory and fulfillment of His promises. The key takeaway is to trust in God’s plan and be obedient to His commands, as disobedience can have lasting consequences, even for the most faithful of servants.

????????? ??????????? ?? ?????? is the topic that will be discussed today on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast In this episode, we discusses Christians Perspective on Aliens. The question of whether aliens and UFOs exist from a Christian perspective has been a topic of interest and debate for many believers. Let’s explore this from a Christian viewpoint while considering the scientific facts mentioned. The Bible does not explicitly mention the existence of aliens or extraterrestrial life forms. It primarily focuses on God’s relationship with humanity and His plan of redemption through Jesus Christ. As such, the concept of aliens, as beings with intellect, emotion, and a will, is not directly addressed in Scripture. However, the absence of mention does not necessarily invalidate the possibility of their existence. Regarding the scientific facts provided, the lack of concrete evidence for life on other planets in our solar system is indeed a significant point to consider. It is essential to acknowledge that our current understanding of the universe is limited, and as technology advances, we may discover more about other celestial bodies. From a Christian perspective, if alien life were to be discovered, it would not contradict the belief in God as the Creator. Christianity acknowledges God’s vastness and His ability to create life beyond Earth if He chose to do so. The discovery of non-moral and non-sentient life forms, such as algae or animals, on other planets would not pose theological challenges, as they are not viewed as having moral responsibility or being in the image of God. The Bible teaches that creation is affected by the curse of sin, which could potentially apply to any life found on other planets. However, this should not discourage Christians from exploring the cosmos and seeking to understand God’s creation better. It is crucial to differentiate between extraterrestrial life and the existence of spiritual beings, such as angels or demons, which are discussed in the Bible. Demonic beings are spiritual entities and not physical creatures from another planet. Ultimately, the discovery of alien life would not alter the core tenets of Christianity: the belief in God as the Creator, the fallen nature of creation, and the redemptive work of Jesus Christ for humanity. Christians can approach the idea of aliens with an open mind, embracing scientific exploration while staying grounded in their faith. In conclusion, the Christian perspective on aliens is not defined with certainty, as the Bible does not explicitly address this topic. The discovery of alien life, if it were to happen, should not undermine the foundations of Christianity but rather encourage a deeper appreciation for God’s vast and diverse creation. As Christians, we can explore the wonders of the universe, knowing that our faith remains rooted in the truth of God’s word and His plan for humanity’s salvation through Jesus Christ.

??? ?????’ ????? ??????? is the topic that will be discussed today on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast The death of Jesus holds immense significance and meaning in Christianity, and John 19:17-42 provides crucial insights into why His death matters. Redemption and Atonement: Jesus’ death is viewed as the ultimate sacrifice for the redemption of humanity’s sins. By willingly offering Himself as the sacrificial Lamb, Jesus took upon Himself the sins of the world, bridging the gap between God and humanity, and making reconciliation possible. Fulfillment of Prophecies: Jesus’ crucifixion fulfilled numerous prophecies from the Old Testament, such as Isaiah 53:12, which mentioned Him being “numbered with the transgressors.” This shows how Jesus’ life and death were part of God’s divine plan, as foretold through the prophets. The Nature of God’s Love: Jesus’ death demonstrates the extent of God’s love for humanity. The fact that God Himself, in the form of Jesus, willingly endured such cruelty and shame to save humankind highlights the depth of His love and compassion for us. A Universal Message: The title written by Pilate in Hebrew, Greek, and Latin, declaring Jesus as the King of the Jews, symbolizes the universal nature of Jesus’ message. His death and resurrection are meant for all people, regardless of nationality or ethnicity. The Seven Words from the Cross: The seven statements made by Jesus while on the cross reveal His concern for others, His relationship with the Father, and His ultimate surrender to God’s will. They portray the depth of His love, forgiveness, and understanding even in His excruciating suffering. The Reality of Jesus’ Humanity and Death: The blood and water flowing from Jesus’ wound confirm His genuine human death. This is crucial to the Christian belief in the bodily resurrection, as it substantiates that Jesus truly died and triumphantly rose again. The Witness of Many: The death of Jesus is attested by multiple witnesses, including the centurion, gospel writers, angels, Jews, as well as Paul, Peter, and John in their letters. These testimonies provide strong historical evidence for the reality of Jesus’ crucifixion and its significance. Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus: The involvement of these prominent individuals in Jesus’ burial signifies the transformation and public display of their faith. Joseph, despite being wealthy and having access to a more prestigious tomb, chose to honor Jesus in death, possibly indicating his commitment to Jesus’ teachings and sacrifice. In conclusion, John 19:17-42 highlights the pivotal importance of Jesus’ death in Christian theology. His crucifixion serves as the ultimate act of love and atonement, fulfilling prophecies, and providing hope and redemption to all humanity. The witnesses, the powerful last words of Jesus, and the involvement of respected individuals in His burial further authenticate the profound impact of Jesus’ death on human history and the Christian faith.

??? ????? ?? ???? ????????-??????? ???????? is the topic that will be discussed today on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast In today’s show, we are going to talk about ??? ????? ?? ???? ????????-??????? ????????. In the context of the power of peer pressure, we can explore Pilate’s decision-making process and the influence exerted on him by the crowd and the Jewish leaders. Despite his personal belief in Jesus’ innocence, Pilate found himself caught between his duty as the Roman governor and the pressure from those around him. As Pilate contemplated the claim that Jesus was the Son of God, he faced conflicting voices and external forces that influenced his judgment. The Jewish leaders, driven by their own motives and jealousy, manipulated the crowd to demand Jesus’ crucifixion. The crowd, easily swayed by peer pressure and swept up in the moment, fervently shouted for Jesus to be crucified. Pilate, aware of the potential unrest and seeking to maintain control over the situation, succumbed to the pressure. He feared the repercussions of going against the demands of the Jewish leaders and the crowd. Despite his recognition of Jesus’ innocence, Pilate made the decision to appease the crowd by condemning Jesus to crucifixion. This context highlights the significant role that peer pressure and the fear of public opinion can play in decision-making. Pilate’s choice to prioritize the appeasement of the crowd over justice and his own conscience serves as a cautionary tale, illustrating the dangers of yielding to external pressures and forsaking one’s own moral convictions.

?????????’? ??????????? ?? ???????????? ??? is the topic that will be discussed today on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast In today’s show, we are going to talk about ?????????’? ??????????? ?? ???????????? ???. Today we are going to discuss about Christian’s Perspective on Independence Day. From a Christian perspective, Independence Day serves as a powerful reminder of the freedom believers have in Christ. Just as the United States declared independence from British rule, Christians believe they have been liberated from the bondage of sin through the sacrificial death of Jesus. This freedom is a gift that cannot be earned, but rather, it is received through faith in Christ. The parallel between the historical event of declaring independence and the spiritual freedom in Christ is evident in the symbolism of the holiday. The mid-war declaration reflects the notion that Christians are freed from the power of sin and darkness in the midst of life’s ongoing struggles. Additionally, just as the Declaration of Independence united thirteen colonies into one nation, Christians find unity in their faith in Christ. They hold common truths about their identity as children of God, created equal and endowed with certain unalienable rights by their Creator. Independence Day also reminds Christians of their dual-citizenship, as they are not only citizens of their earthly nation but also citizens of heaven. This heavenly citizenship holds more profound significance for believers as it points to their eternal hope and inheritance in Christ. The freedom Christians experience in Christ comes with a responsibility to love and serve others selflessly. Just as soldiers sacrifice their lives to protect their country’s freedom, Christians are encouraged to serve others and adjust their lives to bless and care for their neighbors. As Christians celebrate Independence Day, they are called to reflect on the sacrifices made for their earthly freedom and, more importantly, the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who gave up His own freedom to set humanity free from sin. This day serves as a poignant reminder of the liberty found in Christ and the gratitude Christians should have for their Savior’s sacrifice.

?????????????, ???????????, ????-??? ???????? is the topic that will be discussed today on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast In today’s show, we are going to talk about ?????????????, ???????????, ????-??? ????????. The Bible addresses homosexuality and distinguishes between homosexual behavior and homosexual inclinations or attractions. Engaging in homosexual acts is considered sinful, but the Bible does not classify experiencing temptation as a sin itself. Romans 1:26–27 connects homosexuality to the consequences of denying and disobeying God, while First Corinthians 6:9 states that those who practice homosexuality go against God’s created order. However, it is important to note that the Bible also teaches that no sin is too great for the cleansing power of Jesus. While the Bible does not explicitly mention gay marriage or same-sex marriage, it consistently refers to marriage as the union between a man and a woman. Passages like Genesis 2:24 establish marriage as the joining of a man and his wife. The context of marriage in the Bible consistently supports the union of a man and a woman for the purpose of building a family and providing stability. Historical, psychological, and natural perspectives also argue against gay marriage. Marriage has traditionally been understood as a union between a man and a woman throughout human civilization. Psychologists argue that a marriage between a man and a woman, where both serve as positive gender role models, provides the best environment for raising well-adjusted children. Additionally, anatomically, men and women are designed to complement one another sexually, and procreation naturally occurs within a heterosexual relationship. The Bible asserts that the truth about homosexuality being immoral and unnatural is evident to everyone. However, society often suppresses this truth by normalizing homosexuality and marginalizing opposing views. Christians are called to share the love of God and act as ministers of reconciliation, offering forgiveness and pointing to Jesus Christ. While homosexuality is considered a sin according to the Bible, Christians are encouraged to speak the truth in love and engage with gentleness and respect. Regarding transgenderism, the Bible does not directly address it. However, the Bible’s condemnations of homosexuality and transvestitism (Deuteronomy 22:5) can be considered relevant. Although the Bible does not mention conditions like hermaphroditism or other brain defects that may contribute to gender dysphoria, the existence of such conditions does not imply that embracing their effects is morally acceptable. While biological factors may contribute to gender dysphoria, it does not justify engaging in behaviors that contradict biblical teachings. In summary, the Bible views homosexual behavior as sinful, while distinguishing between temptation and active sin. It upholds the traditional understanding of marriage as the union between a man and a woman. The Bible does not directly address transgenderism but identifies instances of gender confusion as sin. Christians are called to share the love of God, offer forgiveness, and speak the truth in love when addressing these matters.

“?????? ?? ? ????? ???????” W??? ?? ?????? is the topic that will be discussed today on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast In today’s show, we are going to talk about “?????? ?? ? ????? ???????” W??? ?? ?????? The Battle of Two World Systems is a concept that highlights the clash between different perspectives and ideologies. In the given passage, John 18:28-38, there is a discussion between Jesus and Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor. This conversation revolves around the nature of truth. In this exchange, Pilate asks Jesus if he is the king of the Jews, to which Jesus responds by questioning Pilate’s intentions and highlighting that his kingdom is not of this world. Pilate then poses the famous question, “What is truth?” but does not wait for an answer and moves on to address the Jews’ accusations against Jesus. This passage raises several intriguing thoughts about truth. Pilate’s question, “What is truth?” reflects a common human inquiry about the nature of reality and the existence of absolute truth. It suggests that truth might be elusive and subjective, varying from person to person or situation to situation. The encounter between Jesus and Pilate serves as a powerful reminder of the complexities of human nature and the challenges faced by those in positions of authority. It highlights the conflict between truth and self-preservation, and the consequences that can arise when individuals prioritize their own interests over justice. As we reflect on this passage, we are confronted with the choices we make in our own lives. Are we willing to stand up for what is right, even when faced with opposition and personal risks? Are we seeking truth and justice, or are we swayed by the pressures of the world around us? May this account of Jesus’ trial and Pilate’s struggle serve as a reminder to us all to pursue truth, act with integrity, and stand up for justice, even in the face of adversity.

???? ???? ?? ???? ?? ?? ????????? is the topic that will be discussed today on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast In today’s show, we are going to talk about What does it mean to be redeemed? In summary, according to Christian beliefs, every individual is in need of redemption due to the state of guilt and separation from God caused by sin. The concept of redemption is closely linked to the idea of being bought out or liberated. Through Christ’s sacrificial death on the cross, believers are freed from the bondage of sin and the Old Testament law. The benefits of redemption include forgiveness, holiness, justification, freedom, adoption into God’s family, and reconciliation with Him. This redemption is made possible through the price paid by Jesus as a ransom for our release from sin and its consequences. As a result, former slaves to sin are transformed into saints and can look forward to eternal life and praise for the Redeemer who saved them.

?? ?? ????? ??? ????? ?? ??? ???? is the topic that will be discussed today on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast The question of whether to yield the Sword or the Cup stems from a significant biblical event described in the Gospel of John, specifically in Chapter 18, verses 11-27. This passage recounts the arrest of Jesus Christ in the Garden of Gethsemane and highlights a critical decision faced by one of Jesus’ disciples, Peter. In this context, the “Sword” symbolizes Peter’s instinct to resort to violence or physical defense. As Jesus was being apprehended by a group of soldiers and officials sent by the religious authorities, Peter, driven by his love and loyalty for Jesus, drew his sword and struck the high priest’s servant, cutting off his ear. However, Jesus quickly intervened, urging Peter to put away his sword and declaring that those who live by the sword will die by the sword. On the other hand, the “Cup” represents Jesus’ acceptance of his impending suffering and crucifixion. Moments before his arrest, Jesus prayed to God, asking if it was possible for the “cup” to be taken away from him, signifying his desire to avoid the immense pain and sacrifice that awaited him. However, he ultimately submitted to God’s will, expressing his willingness to drink from the metaphorical cup of suffering and fulfill his purpose in God’s plan of salvation. Therefore, the question of yielding the Sword or the Cup encapsulates the contrast between using force or violence to defend one’s beliefs and embracing sacrifice and suffering for a higher cause. It presents a moral and spiritual dilemma, emphasizing the choice between following one’s immediate instincts or surrendering to a more profound purpose and divine will. The passage encourages reflection on the nature of power, self-sacrifice, and the transformative power of nonviolence in the face of adversity.

?????????, ??? ???? ??? ??? ?????! is the topic that will be discussed today on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast The topic, “?????????, ??? ????, ??? ??? ?????,” corresponds to a specific passage in the Bible, specifically ???? ??:?-??. This passage recounts the events leading up to Jesus’ arrest in the Garden of Gethsemane. ?????????: In this passage, Jesus demonstrates obedience to God’s will. He knew that his time had come, and he willingly submitted himself to the authorities who had come to arrest him. Jesus’ obedience to God’s plan is a recurring theme throughout his life and ministry, and it serves as an example for his followers to trust and obey God’s will. ??? ????: In John 18:1-10, one of Jesus’ disciples, Judas Iscariot, betrays him by identifying him to the authorities with a kiss. This act of betrayal was a sign of familiarity and friendship, but it was used to facilitate Jesus’ arrest. The kiss symbolizes deceit and hypocrisy, contrasting with Jesus’ message of love and genuine relationships. ??? ?????: During the arrest, one of Jesus’ disciples, Peter, draws his sword and cuts off the ear of a servant of the high priest. This impulsive action displays a misguided attempt to protect Jesus. However, Jesus quickly admonishes Peter and heals the wounded servant, emphasizing a message of non-violence and peaceful submission to God’s plan. The sword here represents the world’s methods of resistance and violence, which Jesus rejected in favor of a different path. This topic illustrates the complex dynamics of human behavior, including betrayal, loyalty, obedience, and violence. It emphasizes Jesus’ commitment to God’s will, his teachings of love and non-violence, and his willingness to surrender to the events that would ultimately lead to his crucifixion. It serves as a reminder of the importance of faith, obedience, and following Jesus’ example in our own lives.

??? ???????? ?????? ???? ???????? is the topic that will be discussed today on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast Today we will read ???? ?? which is the greatest prayer ever prayed on earth and the greatest prayer recorded anywhere in the Scripture. ???? ?? contains what is often referred to as the “Greatest Prayer” or the “High Priestly Prayer” of Jesus Christ. It is a significant passage found in the New Testament of the Bible, specifically in the Gospel of John, where Jesus prays to God the Father just before his crucifixion. Jesus knows that his time on Earth is coming to an end, and he is about to face immense suffering and sacrifice. It is in this moment that he offers up a heartfelt and profound prayer to his Father. The prayer can be divided into three main sections. First, Jesus prays for himself, acknowledging the completion of his earthly mission and expressing his desire to be glorified so that he can bring glory to God. He recognizes his role as the Son of God and the means through which eternal life is granted to humanity. The second section focuses on Jesus’ disciples, whom he prays for next. He asks God to protect them and keep them united, emphasizing the importance of unity among his followers. Jesus expresses his hope that they would experience the fullness of joy and be sanctified in the truth. Finally, Jesus extends his prayer beyond his immediate disciples and prays for all those who will believe in him through their message. This includes future believers, which means he is praying for us as well. Jesus asks God to bring unity among all believers so that the world may know that God sent him. Throughout the prayer, there is a sense of deep intimacy and connection between Jesus and his Father. It reveals the profound love and care Jesus has for his disciples and all those who would come to believe in him. It also demonstrates his understanding of his divine purpose and his desire for God’s will to be done. Overall, ???? ?? captures a moment in Jesus’ ministry and provides insight into his relationship with God the Father and his concern for his followers. It is a prayer that continues to inspire and challenge believers today, reminding us of the significance of unity, love, and the ultimate purpose of sharing the message of Jesus Christ with the world.

??? ??? ??? ?? ?????? ???????! is the topic that will be discussed today on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast In today’s show we are going to talk about ??? ??? ??? ?? ?????? ???????. Forgiveness is a complex and deeply personal topic that holds great significance in human relationships and personal growth. It involves the act of letting go of resentment, anger, and the desire for revenge towards someone who has caused harm or wronged us in some way. When we forgive, we choose to release negative emotions and move forward with compassion and understanding. There are several reasons why forgiveness is important and why we should consider practicing it: 1. Emotional well-being: Holding onto grudges and harboring resentment can have a detrimental effect on our mental and emotional well-being. It keeps us stuck in the past, constantly reliving the pain and preventing us from moving forward. Forgiveness allows us to free ourselves from the burden of negative emotions, promoting healing and emotional healing. 2. Restoring relationships: Forgiveness can be a powerful tool in restoring and repairing damaged relationships. By letting go of past grievances, we create space for reconciliation, understanding, and rebuilding trust. It opens the door to meaningful communication and the possibility of a renewed connection. 3. Personal growth and maturity: Forgiveness is a sign of personal strength and growth. It requires us to rise above our own pain and recognize the humanity in others, understanding that everyone makes mistakes. By choosing forgiveness, we cultivate empathy, compassion, and emotional resilience. It helps us break cycles of negativity and foster healthier relationships in the future. 4. Health benefits: Research has shown that forgiveness is linked to improved physical health. Letting go of grudges and resentment reduces stress levels, lowers blood pressure, and strengthens the immune system. It can also lead to better sleep and increased energy levels. 5. Breaking the cycle of hurt: When we hold onto anger and refuse to forgive, we risk perpetuating a cycle of hurt and negativity. By choosing forgiveness, we can disrupt this cycle and create a more positive environment for ourselves and others. It allows us to break free from the grip of negativity and choose a path of healing and growth. It is important to note that forgiveness does not mean condoning or forgetting the hurt caused by someone. It does not imply that we should reconcile with the person or continue to subject ourselves to harmful behavior. Forgiveness is a personal choice that empowers us to move forward without being weighed down by past grievances. In conclusion, forgiveness is a transformative and empowering act that can bring emotional healing, restore relationships, promote personal growth, and improve overall well-being. It requires courage, empathy, and a willingness to let go of the pain of the past. By practicing forgiveness, we can create a more peaceful and compassionate world for ourselves and those around us.

??? ????? ????? ?? ??????? ???! is the topic that will be discussed today on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast According to many religious and spiritual traditions, Satan is considered to be an evil force that seeks to lead people away from goodness and towards sin and destruction. The methods that Satan is said to use to achieve this goal vary depending on the belief system in question. According to many religious and spiritual traditions, Satan is considered to be an evil force that seeks to lead people away from goodness and towards sin and destruction. The methods that Satan is said to use to achieve this goal vary depending on the belief system in question. In Christianity, for example, Satan is often described as a tempter who tries to lead people astray through deception and trickery. He is said to plant seeds of doubt and discord, encouraging people to turn away from God and pursue their own selfish desires. Satan is also believed to use fear, anxiety, and temptation to manipulate people into making poor choices that ultimately lead to their downfall. In other traditions, Satan is portrayed as a powerful adversary who seeks to undermine the spiritual progress of individuals by instilling negative thoughts and emotions. He may use feelings of anger, jealousy, or resentment to turn people against one another, or he may try to create chaos and confusion in order to prevent individuals from finding their true purpose in life. Regardless of the specific tactics that Satan is believed to use, the ultimate goal is always the same: to lead people away from their connection to God or the divine, and towards a life of suffering and despair. To protect oneself from this destructive force, many religious and spiritual traditions advocate cultivating a strong connection to God or the divine, as well as engaging in practices such as prayer, meditation, and acts of kindness and compassion towards others.

????????? ?? ???? is the topic that will be discussed today on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast Today we are going to talk about the ????????? ?? ????. Pete is currently on location in Naples Italy and we are going to talk about His Journey traveling to Places Paul spent time in sharing God’s word. The ????????? ?? ???? is a term used to describe a popular Christian pilgrimage route that traces the missionary journeys of the Apostle Paul as recorded in the New Testament. These journeys are chronicled in the Book of Acts and include his travels throughout the Eastern Mediterranean, from modern-day Turkey to Greece and beyond. The Footsteps of Paul pilgrimage typically starts in the city of Antioch in modern-day Turkey, where Paul began his first journey with Barnabas. From there, pilgrims followed in his footsteps as he traveled to Cyprus, then on to modern-day Greece, where he preached in cities such as Philippi, Thessaloniki, and Corinth. The pilgrimage often includes visits to important biblical sites, such as the Acropolis in Athens, the Areopagus where Paul preached his famous sermon, and the ruins of ancient Corinth where he lived and preached for over a year. In addition, pilgrims may visit other sites of historical and cultural significance, such as the ancient city of Ephesus and the island of Patmos where the Apostle John is said to have written the Book of Revelation. The Footsteps of Paul pilgrimage is a meaningful experience for Christians seeking to deepen their faith and connect with the history of their religion. It offers a chance to visit the places where the early Church was established and to gain a better understanding of the cultural and historical context in which the New Testament was written. It also allows pilgrims to connect with other believers from around the world and to share in the communal experience of worship and fellowship.

???? ?? ????????????? ??? ????????? ????? is the topic that will be discussed today on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast Understanding our spiritual order can be a deeply personal and individualized journey, as each person’s spiritual path and beliefs are unique to them. However, there are some general keys that can help guide our understanding of our spiritual order: 1. Self-awareness: Understanding our spiritual order begins with understanding ourselves. We must be willing to look within and examine our beliefs, values, and experiences. By developing self-awareness, we can better understand our spiritual path and the role it plays in our lives. 2. Connection to something greater: Many people find meaning and purpose in their spiritual order by connecting to something greater than themselves, whether that be a higher power, the universe, or a collective consciousness. This connection can help us feel a sense of belonging and provide guidance in our lives. 3. Mindfulness: Practicing mindfulness can help us cultivate a deeper awareness of the present moment and connect more fully with our spiritual order. By being present and engaged in our experiences, we can develop a greater understanding of our beliefs and values and how they shape our lives. 4. Compassion and empathy: A key aspect of many spiritual orders is the importance of compassion and empathy towards others. By cultivating these qualities, we can develop a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us, and find greater meaning and purpose in our lives. 5. Ritual and practice: Many spiritual orders involve ritual and practice as a way to connect with our beliefs and values. This can include meditation, prayer, or other forms of spiritual practice that help us connect with our higher selves and the divine. Overall, understanding our spiritual order is a lifelong journey that requires self-reflection, mindfulness, and a willingness to connect with something greater than ourselves. By cultivating these qualities, we can find greater meaning and purpose in our lives and deepen our understanding of our spiritual path.

???????? ??????? ??? ?????? ?????????! is the topic that will be discussed today on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast The topic discusses victimization and victim mentality. It explains that victimization is when someone is treated poorly or unfairly, while victim mentality is when someone blames others for their problems and believes that bad things always happen to them. The text encourages readers to ask themselves if they have a victim mentality and to try to break free from it, as it can negatively impact their life. The topic also provides examples of people who overcame victimization and victim mentality, such as Jesus, Paul, and Joseph. It suggests that the fruit of the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil, which represents the source of victimization, cannot transform the heart and give abundant life, unlike God, who wants people to have an overcomer’s mindset. The belief is that God does not want the suffering or trauma that you have experienced to define your entire life. Instead, God wants you to be liberated from it. Jesus is regarded as the ultimate example of someone who was victimized but chose to overcome a victim mentality. The depiction of Jesus’ suffering in the movie The Passion of the Christ can be difficult to witness, particularly when He endures the physical abuse inflicted upon Him, such as being whipped, having His beard pulled out, and being mocked. Even after all of this, He was crucified even though He had done nothing wrong. Despite being blameless, Jesus did not succumb to a victim mentality. If anyone had reason to feel victimized, it was Him.

??? ??? ??????? ?????????? ??! is the topic that will be discussed today on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast The presence of evil in the world is a result of human sin and disobedience, as seen in the story of Adam and Eve and their decision to eat from the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil in Genesis. This disobedience caused a separation between humanity and God, leading to a loss of authority and influence over Satan, who is described as the ruler of this world. The effects of sin are evident in the cultural values and practices that promote selfishness, greed, violence, and other forms of evil. The impact of these cultural values and practices can be seen in the way they affect how we live our lives. They promote a worldview that is centered on individualism, materialism, and self-gratification, often at the expense of others. This leads to a lack of empathy and concern for the well-being of others, which in turn perpetuates social and economic inequalities, injustice, and violence. To overcome the negative effects of cultural evil, we need to turn back to the Tree of Life and embrace the values of love, compassion, and selflessness. This requires a change of heart and a commitment to living a life that is guided by the principles of the Gospel, which teaches us to love our neighbors as ourselves, to care for the poor and the marginalized, and to seek justice and righteousness. By living in the spirit of Christ, we can counteract the negative effects of cultural evil and help to bring healing and transformation to the world around us.

Did Jesus’ resurrection happen? is the topic that will be discussed today on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast The Resurrection of Jesus Christ is a central doctrine of the Christian faith. It is believed to be the ultimate vindication of Jesus’ teachings, life, and ministry, and the ultimate sign of God’s power and love for humanity. The resurrection is seen as evidence that Jesus is the Son of God and that he has conquered sin and death. For Christians, the Resurrection is not just a historical event, but a present reality that is central to their faith. The Apostle Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 15:17, “And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins.” In other words, the Resurrection is essential to the Christian belief that Jesus’ death on the cross was the atonement for humanity’s sins. The Resurrection also has significant implications for the Christian understanding of life and death. It is believed to be a promise of eternal life for believers, who will be raised from the dead like Jesus and live forever in the presence of God. In conclusion, while there may be differing opinions on the historicity of the Resurrection, it remains a central and foundational doctrine of the Christian faith. The Resurrection is seen as evidence of God’s power and love for humanity, the ultimate vindication of Jesus’ life and teachings, and the promise of eternal life for believers.

Overcoming our pain with Joy – John 16:16-38 is the topic that will be discussed today on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast 16-24 Confusion, go away. World rejoice them sorrowful, but they will have joy 25-33 No matter what we go through we are never alone; the Father is always with us and He loves us. Last week’s show “?????????? ?? ??? ???? ??????” was a passionate spirit filled show. If you haven’t already, we would recommend you go back and listen to it. Today, we’ll pick up where Jesus left off in preparing the disciples for His departure from earth this week. This section of our reading will cover John 16:16-33, which concludes the Upper Room Discourse and focuses on the disciples’ emotions. They were depressed, perplexed by some of Jesus’ teaching, and terrified. It gives us hope to know that the disciples were real men with real problems, and yet Jesus was able to use them. Joy is a recurring theme in this section of our reading. That night, the Eleven were not having much joy! But what Jesus said to them eventually changed their lives. Today, we will see how tenderly and patiently Jesus explained to His people how they can have joy in their lives. Let’s read John 16:16-22 We see here that Jesus gives His disciples something to live by, and that is that God brings joy to our lives, not by substitution but by transformation. Yeah, His illustration of the woman giving birth makes this clear. The same baby that caused the pain also caused the joy. In birth God does not substitute something else to relieve the mother’s pain. Instead, He uses what is there already but transforms it. Every parent knows what it is like to have an unhappy child because a toy is broken, or a friend has gone home. The parent can do one or two things. One substitutes something else for the broken toy or absent friend. Or transform the situation into a new experience for the unhappy child. If the mother always gets a new toy for the child each time a toy is broken. That child will grow up expecting that every problem is to be solved by substitution. If the mother always calls another playmate and invites him or her over, the child will grow up expecting people to come to his rescue whenever there is a crisis. The result, either way, is a spoiled child. The way of substitution for solving our problems, is the way of immaturity. The way of transformation is the way of faith and maturity. We cannot mature emotionally or spiritually if somebody is always replacing our broken toys. So now that we understand the principle, we can better understand the problems and the questions of the disciples. In vs 16, Jesus announced that “in a little while, they would not see Him.” This appears to be a deliberately puzzling statement. Jesus spoke in proverbs and the disciples did not understand them. What did Jesus mean? I am encouraged by this, because there are many hours that I read through the scripture to try and understand what is being said. Without trying to read into this, Jesus was possibly talking about “the soon to occur events” in connection with His death and resurrection. After his burial, they would not see Him for a little while, but then, He would rise from the dead and they would see Him again. He had told them on previous occasions that He would rise from the dead after 3 days, but His words did not sink into their minds and hearts. I think Jesus is also speaking about His return to the Father. This ties in with vs 10, Because I go to my Father, and you will see no more. The disciples did not live to see the return of Christ, but they did see Him die and arrive in His glory. Yeah, in comparison to eternity, the time that the church has been awaiting the Lord’s return has really been but a little while. The phrase “a little while”, is used in this very sense in Hebrews 10:37. For yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry. Jesus had to go to the Father to set up the church phase. He sent His Holy Spirit to the Church, and the church is carrying the Word of His grace to the ends of the earth. To the mother experiencing birth pains, every minute may seem to be an hour. Our concept of time changes with our feelings. 30 minutes in the dentist chair may seem like hours, while hours fishing or dining with friends may seem like a very short time. The mother feels as though the birth is taking a long time, when really it may be only a little while. When the baby has been born, pain is forgotten as joy fills her heart. The world today does not want Jesus or His church. The world is rejoicing while we are suffering, longing for our lord to return. In Romans 8:22 it says “all of creation is suffering birth pangs, because of sin, awaiting His return.” In Matthew 9:15 it says “when the bridegroom is away, the bride mourns. But in a little while, he shall return, and we shall go with Him to heaven to enjoy the Fathers house.” While the immediate application may h

The Geniusness of the Holy Spirit is the topic that will be discussed today on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast In Episode 122 Titled: “Why does the world hate Christians?” We unpacked John 15:18–16:4. In verses 18 and 20, Jesus stated that the reason the world hates Christians is because they first hated Him, and because we now identify with Him, they will also hate us. If you haven’t listened to it already, I encourage you to do so. This week we will pick up where we left off in John. At this time, Jesus has told His disciples once more that He must die and ascend to the Father. As usual, Jesus gives His disciples hope with the promise of the Holy Spirit, despite the fact that His disciples are somewhat confused and sorrowful. Today’s reading will reveal to us some additional awesome ways the Holy Spirit assists us in our daily walk with God. It will be a fantastic show. Let’s begin and start our reading with John 16:5-11. We know that up until this point, Jesus had been with His disciples for three years and had protected them from attack, but He was about to leave them. He’d told them this earlier in the upper room, and Peter had asked as to where He was going. So, they were still a bit confused, and Jesus needed to explain why it was critical for them that He had to return to the Father. Of course, the main reason is that the Holy Spirit may come to empower the church for life and witness. Furthermore, the risen Savior would be able to intercede for His people before the heavenly throne of grace. This new truth was difficult for his disciples to grasp. Something to keep in mind in what we just read; the Spirit comes to the Church and not to the World. This means that Jesus is working in and through the Church. The Holy Spirit does not operate in isolation. Just as the Son of God required a body to carry out His work on earth, so too does the Holy Spirit require a body to carry out His ministries, and that body is the church. Our bodies are His instruments and temples, and He desires to use us to praise Christ and proclaim the gospel to the lost. Is our ministry set up to equip and advance God’s kingdom? People occasionally pray, “Lord, send your Spirit to speak to the Lost!” May the Spirit move from one heart to another. Such prayer is without a doubt sincere, but is it Biblical? No, the Holy Spirit does not float up and down the rows of a church building, seeking to win the lost. The Holy Spirit works through the people He dwells in. When the Holy Spirit descended on Peter at Pentecost in Acts 2, He gave him authority to preach, and the preaching of the Word brought conviction to those who heard. The key word here in vs 8 is “reprove”. It is a legal word that means to bring to light, to expose, to refute, to convict and convince”. It could be translated as “pronounce the verdict”. So by this definition Jesus is saying the world may think that it is judging Christians, but it is the Christians who are passing judgment on the world as they witness to Jesus. Yes exactly, Believers are the witnesses, the Holy Spirit is the prosecuting attorney, and the unsaved are the guilty prisoners. However, the purpose of this indictment is not to condemn, but to bring to salivation. The Holy Spirit convicts the world of one specific sin, unbelief. The law of God and man’s conscience will convict the sinner of his sins (plural), but it is the work of the Spirit, through the witness of the believers, to expose the lost world’s unbelief. Yes because it is the unbelief that condemns the lost sinner, not the committing of individual sins. A person could clean up his life and quit his or her bad habits and still be lost and go to hell. The Spirit also convicts the sinner of righteousness, not unrighteousness, walk us through whose righteousness? The righteousness of Jesus, the perfect Lamb of God. The world would not receive the Son of God, so He has returned to the Father. When He was here on earth, He was accused by men of being a blasphemer, a lawbreaker, a deceiver, and even a demon. The Spirit of God reveals the Savior in the Word and in this way glorifies Him. The Spirit also reveals Christ in the lives of believers. Keep in mind the world cannot receive or see the Spirit of God, but they can see what He does as they watch the lives of dedicated believers. The Holy Spirit convicts the lost sinner of sin. This statement should not be confused with Acts 24:25, which speaks of righteousness, temperance, and the coming judgment. Jesus is referring to His judgment of Satan, which was accomplished through His death on the cross. Satan has already been judged and the verdict announced. All that must take place is the executing of the sentence, and that will occur when Jesus returns. But back to Jesus’ point a lost sinner is truly under conviction, he will see the folly and evil of unbelief, he will confess that he does not measure up to the righteousn

What is a Christian Revival? is the topic that will be discussed today on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast The topic of today’s show is“What Is a Christian Revival?”.We’ve heard about what’s going on at Asbury, and we’re seeing signs of revival on the campuses of many other universities across the country.So, what is Revival exactly? We believe it is a spiritual re-awakening from a state of dormancy or stagnation in a believer’s life. It includes a renewed love for God, an appreciation for God’s holiness, a love for His Word and His church, a convincing awareness of personal and corporate sin, a spirit of humility, and a desire for repentance and growth in righteousness. Revival energizes and sometimes deepens a believer’s faith, opening his or her eyes to the truth in a new and exciting way. It generally causes a new beginning with a clean slate, a new beginning of a life lived in obedience to God. Revival breaks the world’s charm and power, which blinds men’s eyes, and generates both the will and power to live in the world but not of the world. The First Great Awakening, also known as the First Revival, occurred in the United States in the 1730s and 1740s and resulted in a spike in Protestant devotion, leaving a lasting imprint on American religion. It came about as a result of authoritative preaching that profoundly affected the congregation with a convicting understanding of individual guilt and the amazing nature of salvation through Christ. By igniting a strong emotional need for a relationship with Christ, the Great Awakening liberated Christianity from mindless ceremonial and dull ritual, making it extremely personal to the average person as it should be. In many ways, revival mimics the experience of a believer when he or she is saved. It is prompted by the Holy Spirit, who creates an awareness of something missing or wrong in the believer’s life that can only be corrected by God. The Christian, in turn, must respond from the heart, acknowledging his or her own need. The Holy Spirit then powerfully draws back the veil that the world has cast over the truth, allowing believers to fully see themselves in comparison to God’s majesty and holiness. Such comparisons, of course, bring great humility, but also great awe of God and His truly amazing grace. Isaiah 6:5 And I said: “Woe is me! For I am lost; for I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips; for my eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts!”. Unlike the initial conversion experience, which results in a new relationship with God, revival represents a restoration of fellowship with God, the relationship having been maintained despite the believer’s withdrawal for a time. In a variety of situations, God, through His Holy Spirit, calls us to revival. The letters of Christ to the seven churches reveal some of the circumstances that may necessitate revival. Christ praised the church in the letter to Ephesus for their perseverance and discernment, but He also stated that they had abandoned their first love (Revelation 2:4-5 “But I have this against you, that you have abandoned the love you had at first. Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent, and do the work you did at first. If not, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place, unless you repent.” Many times, as the excitement of accepting Christ fades, we lose the zeal that we once had. We become engrossed in the ritual, going through the motions, and lose sight of the joy of serving Christ. Revival aids in the restoration of that first love and passion for Christ. Revelation 2:10-11 is about the church in Smyrna, which was under severe persecution. Life’s cares and concerns can wear us down, leaving us emotionally, physically, and spiritually exhausted. Revival can provide us with new hope and faith. Revelation 2:14-16 says “But I have a few things against you: you have some there who hold the teaching of Balaam, who taught Balak to put a stumbling block before the sons of Israel, so that they might eat food sacrificed to idols and practice sexual immorality. So also, you have some who hold the teaching of the Nicolaitans. Therefore repent. If not, I will come to you soon and war against them with the sword of my mouth.” These verses address the issue of worldly compromise and incorporating worldly values into our belief systems. Revival assists us in correctly determining what values we should hold. The problem of tolerating false teaching in our churches is addressed in Revelation 2:20-23 it says “But I have this against you, that you tolerate that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess and is teaching and seducing my servants to practice sexual immorality and to eat food sacrificed to idols. I gave her time to repent, but she refuses to repent of her sexual immorality. Behold, I will throw her onto a sickbed, and those who commit ad

Why Does The World Hate Christians? is the topic that will be discussed today on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast We will discover a unifying thread in today’s reading from John 15:18–16:4 that unites all of our reading. That is, the church is facing hostility from the world, while the Holy Spirit’s ministry is operating with and through the Church. Jesus had been teaching His disciples primarily about love up until this point, but now He will be speaking about hatred. In this section of scripture that we are reading today, He used the term “hatred” seven times. Jesus is the very definition of love. Everything He has ever done is because of His love for others, so how could anyone hate him? His desires the best for us, however, He tells us that we too will be hated like Him. If we identify ourselves as Christians today, then that is the way things will be. Jesus warns His followers that the world will persecute them in the same way that He is being persecuted, and that the world also will hate them. It is clear from John’s gospel that the religious establishment not only rejected Jesus, but also actively sought to have him killed. The lesson Jesus is teaching His disciples here is that they must endure this hostile environment and persistent hostility until Jesus comes again or until they die. Let’s dive in and unpack these powerful verses. Let’s Read John 15:18- 16:4 We should start by defining what Jesus means by “the world,” because the term appears at least three times in the Bible. It can refer to the created world (John 1:10 the world was made by Him), the world of humanity (John 3:16 for God so loved the world), or society apart from God and opposed to God, which we refer to as the world system. From a Christian perspective, the world includes all of the people, plans, organizations, activities, philosophies, values, and so on that belong to society without God. Some of these things may be very cultural, while others may be very corrupt, but they all have their origins in the heart and mind of sinful man and promote what sinful man wishes to enjoy and achieve. As Christians, we must be careful not to fall in love with or conform to the world. Now that we described the term “world”, let’s ask the question, Why does the world system, including the religious world, hate Christians, the ones who believe in Jesus and seek to follow Him? Jesus himself gave us several reasons and the first one is because “we Identify with Him”. In verses 18 and 20, Jesus says that if they hated Him, they will also hate those who identify with Him. Jesus quoted the statement He made earlier in John 13:16 and in John 15:20, and the logic is clear. We are the servants to the Master. Because He is greater than we are, He deserves to be praised and glorified, but the world will not praise or glorify Him. The world despises Him, so the world must despise us. If Jesus, despite His greatness and perfection, does not escape persecution, what hope do we have with our own flaws? Some other passages in the Bible show a special bond between Christ and His followers, that when He is attacked, so are we. In Matt 26:31, we are the sheep and he is the shepherd, so when the shepherd is attacked, the sheep suffer. When they attack Him, they also target us because He is the Master and we are His followers. But it is comforting to know that Jesus shares in the pain of God’s people when they are persecuted since He is the Head of the body and we are the members. Remember in Acts 9:4 when Jesus said Saul and Saul, why are you persecuting me? Paul was persecuting the Church and Jesus took it personally. So, anything that the enemy can do to us has already been done to Jesus. He is with us as we suffer, absolutely amazing. The next reason Jesus gives us why the world system hates us, is found in vs 19, “because we do not belong to the world.” When we trusted Jesus we moved into a new spiritual position. We are now “in Christ” and “out of the world” To be sure, we are in the world physically, but not of the world spiritually We are now partakers of the heavenly calling (Heb 3:1) we are no longer interested in the treasures or pleasures of sin in this world. This does not mean we are isolated from reality or insulated from the world’s needs, so heavenly minded that we are no earthly good. Rather it means that we look at the things of earth from heaven’s point of view. The world system operates on the basis of conformity. As long as a person follows the fads and fashions and accepts the values of the world, he or she will get along. But the Christian refuses to be conformed to this world. In 2 Cor 5:17 says that “the believer is a new creation; old things are passed and behold all things are made new.” That is saying that we no longer want to live in the old life. We are the light of the world, and the salt of the earth. But a dark world does not want light and the world hates that we are differe

?? ?????’? ??????? ?? ??? ???? ???????, ?? ???? ?? ?????????? ???, “??? ????? ?? ?? ??????” on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast. God tells us in Genesis, that travel is a divine command (vocation). It’s a work trip to do the Lord’s business. God tells Adam and Eve to “be fruitful, multiply, and fill the earth”(??????? ?:??). In other words, traveling is part of humanity’s job description. However, God isn’t so much telling Adam and Eve to leave the Garden as He is telling them to extend the Garden. From the beginning of time, travel was a thing to do and it was something that we did together, with God and one another. Gen 2:1-3 We worked together and Sabbathed together. Sadly, many of us have lost the missional, meaningful, sabbatical, worshipful and communal intent of a trip. Before the fall travel was blessed by God, after the fall it became a curse. God had to “turn the car around” in a sense; instead of the trip being about expanding the Garden, it became about finding a way back to the Garden. It’s hard to deny that there is something troubling about the modern American approach to travel, which at this point, could almost be classified as a competitive sport. Travel, especially the travel we see on social media, seems to have devolved into: • ? ?????? ??? ???????? (travel to find myself); • ? ????? ??? ?????????? (travel as a way to be seen and accepted); • ??? ??????? ?? ??????? (travel as a substitute for purpose); • ?? ??????? ?? ??????? ?? ??????????? ?????? ??? ?????????(travel as a way to titillate and medicate). We should travel with an eye towards the opportunities God will provide to share the gospel and extend mercy. In other words, whether we are traveling for work or play, we should be looking for opportunities on the plane, playground or in the hotel lobby for chances to tell people about and practically show them the love of Jesus. . To wrap up everything today, God wants us to take advantage of the opportunity to travel and explore the world around us. He knows that through experiencing different cultures and learning about different people, we can become better, more understanding, and compassionate individuals. Traveling allows us to break down barriers and make connections that would not have been possible otherwise. It can also be a great way to practice our faith and deepen our spiritual connection with God.

On today’s podcast, we will discuss, “????? ? ?????? ?? ??? ??? ????????” on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast. Today we continue our reading in ???? ??:??-??, and we will see the common theme we have read over the last three chapters: that we are to love one another. When we bear fruit in our lives, one of the byproducts is that we love others as Christ first loved us. In ??????? ??:??-??, Jesus is asked what the most important commandment is. He shared with them the Jewish Shema, a prayer said by Jews every morning and evening that states that the Lord God is one and that we should love the Lord God with all of our heart, soul, and might. Then He added a second commandment, that we should love our neighbor as ourselves; all the law and prophets hang on these two commandments. We see Jesus here telling His disciples that they are no longer just servants, but that they are His friends. Many of us have a large number of friends who are not close to us and only a few who are in our inner circle. We also have friends who have turned on us or that have been unfaithful and betrayed us, such as Judas Iscariot. To be honest, even our closest friends can let us down when we need them the most. When Peter, James, and John should have been praying, they went to sleep in the garden, and Peter, even denied Jesus three times. Jesus is saying that the only person that will never let you down in Him. Being a friend and a servant are not mutually exclusive. Abraham is the perfect example of this. According to ? ?????????? ??:?, he was a “friend of God” and a “servant of God”. God desires that we have a deep friendship with Him, but in order to do so, we must remain in Him and obey Him. The more we get to know Him, the more we become acquainted with his thoughts, ideas, and purposes. It’s then that the incredible intimacy and love grow within us as a result of that. God will never stop loving us in spite of us, but we cannot know Him as a friend if we don’t remain in Him. This kind of relationship that Jesus is describing is supernatural, it is unlike anything any of us will ever experience here on earth. It is a relationship of deep love, both for Him and for each other. The friends of the King, could not compete with each other for attention or promotion. They were a part of the inner circle, not to promote themselves but to serve their King. How is it possible that Jesus commands us to love one another? Can true love be commanded? We must remember that Christian love is not simply a feeling, it is a deliberate act. The evidence of our love is not in our feelings, but in our actions, even if it means laying down our lives for Christ and one another. Jesus gave His life for both His friends and His enemies (Romans 5:10) While emotions are definitely involved in how we love it’s more than that. True Christian love is an act of will and a byproduct of the fruit we produce. We can love naturally as Christ loves when we remain in Him. One of the greatest privileges of being a friend of Jesus is getting to know God better and learning God’s secrets. Servants get first dibs, and each of us can get as close to Jesus as we want. We are His friends, and we should be near the throne, hearing His word, enjoying His intimacy, and obeying His commands. In ???? ??:?? Jesus reminded the men that they had this privileged position only because of His grace. They did not choose Him, it was He that chose them! In ???? ??:?? He said He chose them out of the world and ordained them to do His will. So, because God chooses us to do His work, does this take away our free will? No, as we have always said, He will not force us to be His friends; we must act in obedience in order to experience intimacy with Jesus. The word ordained means “appointed” in this context. It refers to the act of distinguishing someone for special service. The Lord has graciously chosen and sets us apart to go into the world and bear His fruit. He is telling His disciples that He is sending them out into the world as His personal ambassadors to tell and witness Himself to others. Friends of Christ bear fruit and advance the kingdom of God. ???? ??:? says the evidence that we know we are Jesus’s disciples is because we bear fruit. We are in the kingdom-building business with Jesus. Where there is true fruit, it remains forever. But if it is manufactured by Man, done in the flesh by man’s own power, then that fruit will eventually disappear. Jesus closes this part of His message by reminding them and us of the most important commandment of all: Love one another. There are dozens of “one another” statements in the New Testament, but all of them are summarized in “Love one another”. To wrap up everything today, we can put it like this; Being a friend of God has many spiritual and practical benefits. Friendship with God is a source of strength, comfort, and peace. It provides a feeling of being connected to something greater than ourselves.

Why Dating Matters is what will be discussing today, with our special guest, on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast In honor of Valentine’s Day this week in the United States, we thought we’d do a show about ways to date your spouse or, for those who are single, your girlfriend or boyfriend. When most people think of “dating,” they envision pre-engagement fun filled with long talks, throbbing hearts, and flower bouquets. But, who says it has to end after engagement “or, for that matter, after marriage? What is the purpose of dating? “A purpose”, according to Merriam Webster, is “something set up as an object or end to be attained.” A purpose defines the ultimate goal, destination, or intended outcome of an action. If your ultimate goal is having a great relationship, then dating should be a part of your purpose. While Christ-centered intimacy is the great prize in marriage, Christ-centered clarity is the great prize in dating. In the context of marriage between man and woman, intimacy is the safest, and marriage is safest in the context of clarity. We must date to get married and date to stay married if we want to have and enjoy a Christ-centered intimacy If “Clarity” is Gods truth on everything, then our ultimate purpose is “to glorify God and to enjoy him forever,” Colossians 3:17 says, “every part of us should be striving toward this end.” In order to glorify God in our marriage we must first and foremost grow in our holiness together. Humans are created for relationship (Genesis 2:18), and it’s in this context of connecting and clashing with other sinners that God frequently makes us aware of our sin. What does that mean exactly? Dating is a time to get to know each other better, to focus on how we can elevate one another. If you are not married and you want to grow in Holiness together, practice self-discipline by setting and keeping boundaries. Always show compassion and forgiveness toward each other. Practice patience with each other and look for ways to complement each other. Display the gospel to others through your relationship, be a light to others. LEARN TO LOVE To grow in Holiness together is hard to do if you don’t know how to love each other as Christ love us. This “love” is different from the kind you’re referring to when you say “I love you” for the first time. Rather, it’s the selfless, sacrificial love we are commanded to show to everyone as believers (Mark 12:30-31). The longer you date someone, the more you’ll know how to love them really well. You learn their love language. For instance, like how hugs make them happy, so you go out of your way to give them a quick embrace before anything else happens in the date. Learn their love languages and sacrifice what you want first to focus on them. If you both do this the date will be unbelievable. What are the love languages? Time, Touch, Words, gifts, service MAKE TIME…No Matter What. Hebrews 10:24-25 “24 Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. 25 And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.” The first step to dating your spouse is commitment. Always plan one date a week, you don’t have to be stuck on a certain day unless your schedule demands it. The bottom line is to make it a priority, not an every once in a while, sort of thing. HAVE GOOD TALKS James 1:19-20 tells us that “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” Don’t just talk to talk, but make it a point while dating to have fruitful meaningful talks, ask positive questions and listen. Creating space for healthy communication is important! Dates are the perfect opportunity for you and your spouse to reconnect. Spend time talking so that you can keep acquainted and stay in touch with each other’s lives! GET-CREATIVE- Colossians 3:23, ‘Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord.” Romans 12:6, “We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us.” MAKE ERRANDS INTO DATES- Ecclesiastes 4: 9-12 “Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” A relationship is stronger when they work together, but it’s even stronger when they have God as their leader. Obviously, there is a time we should date without doing errands together but, why not go to the store together, have fun, and adjust your schedule to just hang out. BE OK WITH CHEAP Even if you’re rich. A common misconception is that quality romance has to be expensive. Let’s throw out that idea right now. Sure, we may be able to afford bo

On today’s podcast we are teaching from John 15:1-11. How do we know if we are producing fruit? is what will be discussed today on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast Today we will study John 15:1-11, where Jesus makes His seventh and last “I am” statement: “I am the vine.” Jesus considers His disciples to be His friends, He reveals to them that He is the source of their life, in Him all things are new and good. We are the branches in His illustration; if we remain in Him, we can do anything, but without Him, we can do nothing. As branches, we have the privilege and duty of sharing His life and abiding in Him. As His friends, we have the privilege of understanding His perfect will and the option to submit to it. Let’s read vs 1-11 and uncover all of its fruit. The planting of vineyards was essential to Israel’s economy and way of life back then. According to history, a golden vine decorated Herod’s temple. When Jesus employed this picture, He was not introducing anything new; it was well-known to every Jew. Let’s dissect four aspects of Jesus’ teaching to better comprehend what He is saying. The first is the vine itself. In the Bible, there are three different vines. The past vine is “Israel”, the future vine is “the earth” as described in Revelation 14:14–20, and the present vine is “Jesus”, which Includes His church as its branches. Let’s break down each one, starting with the past. Psalms 80:8-10 1. The Past Vine: The past vine mentioned here is an act of God’s grace, He transplanted Israel into the land of Canaan. He blessed them with fruit, milk and honey. 2. The second vine talked about here is “the future vine of the earth” Revelation 14:14-20 3. The last vine mentioned here is “the present vine”. This vine represents Jesus, who is the only true vine all other vines of religion are false. So, let’s look at what Jesus says, “The first, was that He is the vine, and the second, was that we are His branches. This crucial idea of connection and communion is emphasized in a number of the biblical passages that relate to Christ and the believer. In Eph 5:25-33, it talks about Jesus as “The Bride” and we as “His bridegroom”. In 1 Cor 12, Jesus is the Head of the body and we are its members, and in John 10 we are Jesus’ “sheep” and He is “our shepherd”. Jesus, in referencing the branch being broken off here, is saying, that a body part that is severed from the body will die. As Christians, we must accept that we are branches that need to be in communion with Jesus in order to live and breathe. How can we know for sure that we are continuing to abide in Christ? Is there a distinct feeling we get? We must keep in mind that while the branches do not consume the fruit, others do. We don’t grow fruit to please ourselves, but to help others. We should be the type of people who nourish others through our words and actions. Prov 10:21 says, “the Lips of the righteous feed many.” There are several different kinds of spiritual fruit that are named in the Bible. Romans 1:13 says, “we bear fruit when we win others to Christ.” In John 4:35 it says, “we are a part of the harvest.” Romans 6:22 says, “We grow in holiness and obedience when we are bearing fruit.” Paul, in Romans 15:28 said that believers that are committed to bearing fruit have a dedicated life bringing of bring God glory. And we know that Gal 5:22 says, “we will bear the fruit of the Spirit which are Joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” Bearing fruit will always build up others around us and point them to Jesus. What does yielding fruit not entail? That would be living in the flesh. Living in the flesh is living in our effort that produces dead results and cannot be reproduced. If it were Spirit produced fruit, then it will go on producing from one life to another. In John 14:27, Jesus spoke about having God’s peace living within you. In verses 9-11, He talks about having love and joy in you. The first three fruits of the Spirit are love, joy, and peace. When we abide in Jesus, we will always produce His love, joy, and peace in our hearts. To wrap up all that we have learned today, we can sum it up like this; We, as branches are to remain in the Vine, we are now entrusted with the dual roles of being faithfully obedient to God and to produce fruit so that others can eat from us.

Peace I leave with you, Peace I give you John 14:19-31 is what we will be discussing today on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast Episode 116 from last week was titled “Fear not, help is here”. My little brother, Bill joined us as a special guest on the show. We covered John 14:16–18, which is when Jesus taught His followers about the Holy Spirit. It was a fantastic show to go back and listen to, if you haven’t already, especially, if you want to learn more about how the Holy Spirit can impact our daily lives. This week is a continuation of last week’s show. Today, we will learn how we can enjoy the Father’s love. Romans 5:5 says “The love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Spirit which is given unto us.” Orphans feel unwanted and unloved, but our Father shares His love with us. Today, we will see how Jesus shared three manifestations of God’s love with his disciples. Let’s Read John 14:19-24 and get started In vs 19-20, we see Jesus sharing a past manifestation of His love. Verse 19 focuses on His resurrection and post-resurrection appearances. He is saying, “I have been with you in power for some time now and you will no longer see me physically. But there will be a time you will see me again, when I come back in power, with great glory to judge lost sinners.” In vs 21 & 23-24 Jesus is showing a “present manifestation” of himself to the believers. Note the repetition of the word “love”. If we treasure His word and obey it, then the Father and the Son will share Their love with us and make Their home in us. Jesus is saying that we have heaven in us now as we are on a mission with Christ and one day when we die. Verses 19- Here, Jesus is saying that there will be a future manifestation when He returns. Judas (not Iscariot), recalled that Jesus had said He would not manifest Himself to the world. This seemed to contradict the other statements that He had made, such as recorded in Matthew 24:30. His question was, “What has come to pass that you are no longer going to reveal yourself to the world?” He is questioning Him as if he is saying, has there been a change in the divine plan? One of the best ways to ease a troubled heart is to bathe it in the Love of God. When you feel like an orphan, let the spirit of God reveal God’s love to you in a deeper way. Charles Spurgeon said, “Little faith will take your soul to heaven, but great faith will bring heaven to your soul. Your heart can become a heaven on earth, as you commune with Jesus and worship him.” Now let’s read John 14:25–31 In verse 27 the word “peace” there is Shalom, it is a precious word to the Jewish people. It means, much more than just the absence of war or distress. Shalom means “wholeness, completeness, health, security, even prosperity in the best sense.” When you are enjoying God’s peace, there is joy and contentment. God’s peace is not like the peace the world offers, it is perfect and everlasting. The world bases its peace on its resources, while God’s peace depends on relationships. While in the world, peace is something you wish for or strive for, for the Christian peace is a magnificent gift from God that is gained through faith. People who are not saved gain peace when there is no conflict or trouble. Christians however, experience calm and peace despite difficulties and challenges because of the Holy Spirit’s influence and power in our life. People in the world walk by sight and depend on the externals, but Christians walk by faith and depend on the eternals. In verse 27 it says “The spirit uses the Word to give us His peace”’, In John 15:9-10 He uses the Word to give us His love; in John 15:11 He uses the word to give us Joy. In verse 28, Jesus is assuring His disciples they would see Him again. He’s basically saying, rejoice, because I am returning to the Father. They are like, why should we rejoice again? Because His return made their way possible to the Father in heaven and He is giving them the gift of the Holy Spirit as a helper. In John 14:30-31, Jesus named two of our great spiritual enemies, the world and the Devil. Jesus overcame the world and the devil and the devil has no claim on Him. There is no point in Jesus where the Devil can get a foothold. In verse 28 Jesus said, My Father, is greater than I. He was not denying His own deity or His equality with God, for then He would have been contradicting Himself. When Jesus was here on earth, He was necessarily limited by having a human body, so this is a reference to this fact. Jesus showed His love for the Father (and the world) by voluntarily going to the cross. He did not hide or flee. He willingly laid down His life. He and the disciples may have left the upper room at this point so, what Jesus said from that point on, was spoken on the way to the garden. Or they could have been lingering for a while as he shared this. We can easily imagine the allegory of the vine being given as they walked that night through the vineyards

Fear not Help is here John 14 16-18 is the topic that will be discussed today on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast. In episode 115, titled “Let not your hearts be troubled”, we unpacked John 14:1-15. During the show we talked about the key encouraging assurance statements by Jesus to His disciples. He shared with them that one day they will be with Him in heaven for all eternity. He also shared with them, that now in His name, they can pray directly to the Father and that their prayers will be answered. It was a very encouraging show for anyone that might be going through hard times currently, if you have not listened to it yet, we highly recommend that you do. In our coming shows, we are continuing this conversation that Jesus is currently having with His disciples. In today’s show through John 14 verses 16-18, Jesus will be sharing with them about the assurance they will have in the Holy Spirit. In the following shows coming up, we will unpack vs 19-24 when Jesus will talk about how, that when He is gone, they will enjoy the Father’s love and lastly in vs 25-31, Jesus will share with them that they will have the same peace here on earth as He had. Let’s read our text for today John 14:16-18 Jesus had a great deal to say about the Holy Spirit in His upper room message, for apart from the help of the Spirit of God, we cannot live the Christian life as God would have us live it. We must know who the Holy Spirit is, what He does and how He does it. Our English word “comfort” comes from two Latin words meaning “with strength”. We usually think of comfort as soothing someone, consoling him or her, and to some extent this is true. But true comfort strengthens us to face life bravely and to keep on going. It does not rob us of responsibility or make it easy for us to give up. Vs 17 says that the HS is “the Spirt of Truth”. Here Jesus is relating the HS to himself, “The Truth” and the word of God, which of itself is the truth. If we want the HS to work in our lives, then we must seek to glorify Christ, and we must make much of the Word of God. When we compare Eph 5:18- 6:9 with Colossians 3:16-4:1. To be filled with the Spirit is the same as to be controlled by the Word. The Spirit of Truth uses the Word of Truth to guide us into the will and the work of God. The HS abides in the believer. He is a gift from the Father, an answer to the prayer of Jesus. During His earthly ministry, Jesus had guided, guarded, and taught His disciples, but now He was going to leave them. Jesus also called the HS another helper, or in some translations, a councilor or comforter. Jesus said the word “another” before helper, that word translated in Greek means “another of the same kind”. So, has the HS been on earth before Jesus? Of course. He empowered men and women in the OT to accomplish God’s work. However, during the OT age, the Spirit of God would come upon people and then leave them. Remember King Saul, in 1 Sam 16:14 and David’s writing in Psalm 51:11. Both illustrate the leaving of the HS. In Acts 2 at Pentecost, the HS was given to God’s people to remain with them forever. Even though today, we may grieve the HS, but he will never leave us. Something to think about, the way we treat the HS is the way we treat Jesus. The believer’s body is the temple of the Spirit (1 Cor 6:19-20), so what he or she does with their bodies affects the indwelling HS. Another truth to remember is that the world cannot receive the Spirt because, the World lives “by sight” and not by faith. The world does not know Jesus, and you cannot have knowledge of the Spirit apart from Jesus. Lastly, in vs 18, John uses the word “comfortless”, that word translated in the Greek is “orphans”. We must know that in Jesus we are never alone, abandoned, helpless, or hopeless! Wherever we go, the Spirit is with us, so why should we feel like orphans? There is no need to have a troubled heart when you have the very Spirit of God dwelling within you!

Let not your heart be troubled (John 13:36–14:15) is the topic that will be discussed today on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast. In our reading today, we are continuing the conversation the disciples have been having with Jesus at Passover. Jesus is letting them know He will no longer be with them physically and that He now has to go be with the Father. We will read in John 13:36-38, Peter asks Jesus where He will be going. Wondering if they could join Him. With the questions that Peter was asking, Jesus shows us that they are perplexing questions, which was causing their hearts to be troubled. We know this because in John 14:1 Jesus tells them, “Let not your heart be troubled.” As we read through this chapter, we will see Jesus bring them a sense of calm with encouraging words of comfort. Jesus is the only one who can truly know our hearts. Peter did not know him, and we sometimes have trouble truly knowing our hearts. One thing is for certain: in this life we live, there will come a time when our hearts will be troubled. These next couple of podcasts will help bring to life Jesus’ words of comfort and assurance. We will focus on six wonderful assurances. Assurances that we today may claim and enjoy when life gets messy and confusing. Read John 13:36 and John 14:6 Did you notice Jesus did not rebuke Peter for asking him where He was going? But his reply was somewhat cryptic. He said, “One day, Peter, you will follow me to the cross, and then you will follow me to heaven. But first, you will deny me 3 times.” He starts to calm their hearts with the mention of heaven as a real place. It is not a product of religious imagination or the result of a psyched-up mentality, looking for pie in the sky by and by the fairytale. According to Jesus, heaven is the place where God dwells and where Jesus sits today at the right hand of the Father. Another encouragement from Jesus we find in Vs. 3 is a clear promise that Jesus will return one day for His people. Some will go to heaven through the “valley of the shadow of death,” but those who are alive when Jesus returns will never see death. 1 Thessalonians 4:13–18 says, “In that day, we will be changed to be like Christ, and we will go to heaven.” What a great promise! Thomas’s question revealed his keen desire to be with Jesus, and this meant that he had to know where the Master was going and how he, himself, would get there. Jesus made it clear that He was going to the Father and that He was the only way to the Father. Heaven is a real place, a loving place, and an exclusive place. Not everybody is going to heaven, but rather only those who have trusted in Jesus. Jesus assured his disciples that once they died, they would be with Him in heaven for all eternity. Paul wrote in Romans 8:18 that he considered the sufferings of this present time not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us. We, along with the disciples, will suffer in some way, shape, or form here on earth, but Jesus’s words give us the eternal blessing of heaven to look forward to. Read John 14:7-11 We do not have to wait until we enter heaven to get to know the Father. We can know Him today and receive from Him the spiritual resources we need to keep going when the days are difficult. What does the term “know the Father” here mean? The Greek construction of the question in John 14:10 suggests that the Lord expected Phillip to answer yes. Remember Jesus asking Philip, “Do you not believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in me? The words that I say to you, I do not speak on my authority, but the Father who dwells in me does his works.” Philip should have realized that the words of Jesus, as well as His works, came from the Father and revealed the Father. The word “Believe” used in John 14:10 is singular, for Jesus was addressing Phillip, but in John 14:11, it is plural, and He is addressing all of His disciples. The tense of both is “go on believing”. Let your faith grow! Read vs 12-15 and see how Jesus encouraged His disciples all the more. There is a plaque out there that says “Why pray when you can worry?” Too many people take this statement as truth for their own life. Jesus in these verses is saying quite the opposite. If God is going to answer our prayers and give us peace in our hearts, then there are certain conditions that we must meet. Jesus pointed out those conditions in these verses. The first is in vs 12, ”We must pray in faith.” The second is in verses 13–14: we must pray in Christ’s name; and lastly in vs 15, we must pray in loving obedience. So, let’s unpack each of these. Pray in faith. The promise is for us to claim, and the claiming of it demands faith. When Jesus used the double “Truly, truly,” it assured us that this was a big announcement. The fact that Jesus did return to the Father is an encouragement, for now, He is interceding for us. The statement about the greater works applies initially to the a

Humility with Holiness brings Happiness (John 13:12-35) is the topic that will be discussed today on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast. In last week’s show, we talked about “humility and grace” and it was a powerful one. If you haven’t listened to it yet, we highly recommend you go back and listen after this show. This week, we will be in John 13:12-35 to finish off this chapter. The three key highlights in our reading today are: 1st, Judas Iscariot is pointed out as a traitor by Jesus to the disciples; 2nd, The battle between darkness and light; 3rd, Jesus is teaching His disciples that, in order for people to know that they are His disciples, they will know them by their love for each other. Read John 12:12-17 to start off our reading. This section is a continuation of our reading from last week of Jesus washing the disciples’ feet. I notice here that John 13:17 is the key verse in this section, where it says, “If you know these things, happy are you who do them.” What is Jesus talking about? Jesus asked the disciples if they understood what He had done regarding washing their feet, and it is likely that they did not. So, what we read here, is that Jesus is explaining to them the lesson in humble service. He said this is an example for them to follow. The world thinks that happiness results from others serving us, but the real joy comes when we serve others in the name of Christ. Jesus was their master, so he had every right to command their service. Instead, He served them! He gave them an example of true Christian ministry. On more than one occasion during the previous three years that Jesus has been with them, He had taught them lessons about humility and service, but now He had physically demonstrated the lesson to them. The world asks, “how many people work for you?”. But Jesus asks, “how many people do you work for and serve?” Our leadership should be measured by our servant’s heart within us. The last will be first, the first will be last, (Mathew 20:16). We should care more about the people, than the work they do, and in return, the work they do will be more productive. Let’s move on to read verses 18-35. But before we do, be sure to keep these lessons that Jesus has taught us in this chapter close to our hearts. The sequence is, we first must be humble, then walk holy, then we will receive the fulfillment of happiness. Submit to the Father’s will, keep your life clean, and serve others. The true formula for true spiritual joy. A dark shadow now fell across the scene as Jesus dealt with Judas, the traitor. It is important to note, as we mentioned last week, that Judas was not a true believer, but he was a hypocrite. Remember in last week’s show, we said He had never believed in Jesus. Read John 6:64-71 In vs 21, it says that Jesus was troubled in his spirit. Jesus was concerned that Judas’s treachery would not weaken His disciple’s faith. This is why He related it to the Word of God. When the disciples saw all of this fulfilled, it would make their faith stronger. The most remarkable thing is that everyone sitting at the table with Jesus did not know that Judas was an unbeliever and a traitor. Up to the very hour of his treachery, Judas was protected by the Savior whom he betrayed. I Sam 16 (v. 7) For the Lord does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart. God does not judge us by our outward behavior or our acts like man does, but by the intents and desires of the heart. Peter signaled to John, whom Jesus loved, and who was the closest to Jesus at the table, to ask him who the traitor was. Jesus replied by saying “It is whom I give this bread to”. To the disciples, this probably didn’t register yet because, this was an act that was interpreted as an act of love and honor, so Jesus’ actions were seen in that light. Even though Satan had entered Judas, it was Jesus who was in charge. He lived on the timetable given to Him by the Father, and He wanted to fulfill what was written in the Word. John’s little phrase it was night, carries a tremendous impact when you remember that light and darkness are important spiritual images in his gospel. In 8:12 he wrote, “Jesus is the light of the world”. But, Judas rejected Jesus and went out into the darkness, and for Judas, it is still night. Did you notice in vs 31 the minute Judas was gone; the atmosphere was cleared and Jesus began to instruct His disciples and prepare them for His crucifixion and His ultimate return to heaven? His core message to them was to love one another. He told them their greatest responsibility was to love one another, just as He had love them.

Do you desire Humility and Grace? is the topic that will be discussed today on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast. Last year we unpacked John 1-12. John detailed to us the truth of Jesus’s claims as the Messiah. Time and time again, he proved to us through the testimony of many eyewitnesses that Jesus truly is who He says He is. His testimony of Jesus’s teachings showed us that Jesus spent 3 years preparing His disciples for His departure. As we begin this year in John 13, we will see Jesus’s farewell tour, as He begins to give His disciples their final exam. Jesus’s earthy ministry, as they have known it, is now over. He is now transitioning into His final hours, where He will leave them to carry on His work. In chapters 13-21, John presents, for the most part, the private ministry of Christ with His own Disciples. He was preparing them for their future service when the Holy Spirit would come and empower them. Last year, we already studied the days leading up to today’s reading. We learned Jesus had entered Jerusalem on Sunday and then on Monday had cleansed the temple. Tuesday, was a day of conflict as the religious leaders sought to trip Him up and get evidence to arrest Him. The details of these events are in Mathew’s chapters 21-25. Wednesday, was probably a day of rest, and in our reading today, it must be Thursday, as He is meeting with His disciples in the upper room to observe the Passover. Here, Jesus washes His disciples’ feet. Read John 13:1-5 We observe two things in these 5 verses. The first emphasis in verses 1-3 is on what Jesus knew, and the second is in verses 4-5 on what Jesus did. Jesus knew that his hour has come. More than any of the other gospel writers, John emphasized the fact that Jesus lived on a heavenly timetable, as He did the Father’s will. What was this divinely appointed hour? It was the time when Jesus would be glorified through His death, resurrection, and ascension. From a human point of view, it meant suffering, but from the divine point of view, it meant glory. He would soon leave this world and return to the Father who sent him, Jesus had finished His work on earth. Jesus also knew that Judas would betray Him. Judas is mentioned eight times in John’s gospel, more than in any of the other gospels. Why? Let’s unpack Vs 3 a little further, where it says “the Father had given Him all things”. This statement parallels John 3:35, “The Father loves the Son and has given all things into his hand.” It also reminds us of Mathew 11:27 “All things have been handed over to me by my Father, and no one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and anyone to whom the Son chooses to reveal him”. In Vs 4 and 5 the disciples must have been shocked when they saw their Master rise from supper, lay aside His outer garments, wrap a towel around His waist, take a basin of water, and wash their feet. Jesus knew His disciples’ hearts and He knew that they had a competitive spirit about them. We read within a few minutes; the men were disputing over which of them was the greatest in Luke 22:24-30. The Father had put all things into Son’s hands, yet Jesus picked up a towel and a basin! His humility was not born of poverty but of riches. He was rich, yet He became poor (2 Cor 8:9) Jesus was sovereign, yet He took the place of a servant. He had all things in His hands, yet He picked up a towel. He was Lord and Master, yet He served others. Read John 13:6-11 and see Peter’s impulsive statement out of ignorance and then his correction by Jesus. The word translated as “wash” in John 13:5-6 is “nipto” and means “to wash a part of the body”. But the word “washed” in John 13:10 is “louo” and means “to bathe all over”. The distinction is important, for Jesus was trying to teach His disciples the importance of a holy walk. But why is it essential to keep our feet clean? We learn an important lesson from Peter here. Don’t question the Lord’s will or work, and don’t try to change it. He knows what He is doing. Notice that John carefully pointed out that Peter and Judas Iscariot were in a different relationship with Jesus. Yes, Jesus washed Judas’ feet! But it did Judas no good because he had not been bathed all over.

Learn and Move Forward is the topic that will be discussed today on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast. At the end of the year, business owners are often busy taking inventory. To know if they have made a profit or not, they must face this painful but necessary reality. They analyze the data they gather and make changes for the following year. As Christians, we need to stop at the end of the year and measure our progress. Sometimes this is a very painful thing to do. But that is what we are going to talk about today. In our reading today, Paul is taking inventory of his life, and he gives us the 5 next steps of how we are to evaluate our lives while still moving forward. Read Philippians 3:12-16 PAUL’S EVALUATION OF HIS LIFE INVENTORY 1. His Dissatisfaction With Himself Obviously, Paul was satisfied with Jesus, but he was not satisfied with his Christian life. A sanctified dissatisfaction is the first essential to our progress in the Christian race of life. Many Christians are self-satisfied because they compare their running with that of other Christians, usually those who are not making much progress. Had Paul compared himself with others, he would have been tempted to be proud and perhaps to let up a bit. Has this year produced in us a self-satisfied life where we are tempted to be proud? 2. His Devotion Paul said one thing I do, not many things I do. Many Christians focus on too many things, and Paul wants us to evaluate the one thing we do great. The true follower of Jesus must devote himself to running the Christian race. No athlete succeeds by doing everything; he succeeds by specializing. (James 1:8 A double-minded man is unstable in all his ways) Has our year been focusing on many things or the main one thing? 3. How He Viewed His Direction 13c Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead. The unsaved person is controlled by the past, but the Christian running the race looks toward the future. Imagine what would happen on the racecourse if the runners started looking behind them. They could possibly have a collision or serious injury. Believers should be future-oriented. “To forget” means to no longer be influenced by or affected by. Not fail to remember Have we been breaking the power of our past by living for our future hope in Jesus? 4. His Own Determination I press, this same verb is translated “I follow after” and it carries the idea of intense endeavor. The Greeks used this word to describe a hunter eagerly pursuing his prey. A follower of Jesus does not become a winning athlete by listening to lectures, aka sermons, watching movies, reading books, or cheering at the games. He becomes a winning athlete by getting into the game and determining to win! Has our past year been an intense endeavor to win for Jesus 5. His Discipline It is not enough to run hard and win the race; the runner must also obey the rules. Paul is emphasizing the importance of the Christian to remember the spiritual rules laid before him in the word of God. If we are not in our word daily we will in essence break our training and be disqualified. We cannot compete at the highest level if we do not understand the rules. Bible history is filled with people who began the race with great success but failed in the end because they disregarded God’s rules. As we evaluate our year, have we been in God’s word daily so we can know the rules required for battle?

Jesus, the humble King-Matthew 2:13-23 is the topic that will be discussed today on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast. In our last two episodes, we uncovered two facts related to Jesus’s qualifications as a King. The first qualification we discussed was that Matthew was proving that Jesus’s genealogy from both Joseph and Mary gave Him the right to David’s throne. But He knew that would not be enough because there were other men who could claim that as well. We then discussed Jesus’ divine ancestry and how it alone distinguishes him from any other living human being. From there, we talked about the Magi paying Jesus homage and how that also proves His kingship. Today we want to read Matthew 2:13-18 and uncover the hostility that came against Jesus and then finish up with Matthew 2:19-23 and talk about the humility of a King. Read Matthew 2:13-18 Matthew knew that a person is identified not only by his friends but also by his enemies. Herod pretended to worship the newborn King when, in reality, he intended to destroy him. Herod’s anger was evidence of his pride; he could not permit anyone to get the best of him. This led Herod to kill the baby boys, who were two years of age and under, who were still in Bethlehem. What we see in these verses is that Matthew is introducing us to the theme of hostility, which he focused on throughout his book. Satan is a liar and a murderer, as was King Herod. The first mention of Bethlehem in Scripture is in connection with the death of Jacob’s favorite wife, Rachel (Gen 35:16–20). Rachel died giving birth to a son, whom she named Benoni (son of my sorrow). Jacob then renamed his son, Benjamin (son of my right hand). Both of these names relate to Jesus, for He was a “man of sorrows and acquainted with grief,” Isa 53:3, and He is now the son of God at God’s right hand, Acts 5:31. With all of this said, Jacob put up a pillar to mark Rachel’s grave near Bethlehem. Jacob saw Bethlehem as a place of death, but the birth of Jesus made it a place of life! Because of His coming, there would be spiritual deliverance for Israel, and in the future, the establishment of David’s throne and kingdom. Israel, the son of my sorrow, would one day become the son of my right hand. Very few people today think of Bethlehem as a burial place; they think of it as the birthplace of Jesus. Bethlehem is a much bigger story than most people realize. And because Jesus died for us and rose again, we have a bright future before us. Without the new life in Bethlehem, we cannot have our new life, which leads to eternal life. Let’s now read Luke 2:19–23 and talk about the humility of the King. Herod died in 4 BC, which means that Jesus was born sometime between 6 and 5 BC. It is impossible not to notice the parallel between Matthew 2:20 and Exodus 4:19, the call of Moses. The LORD said to Moses in Midian, “Go back to Egypt, for all the men who were seeking your life are dead” Archelaus, one of Herod’s sons, is mentioned in Verse 22; Herod had willed the title of king to him. However, the Jews discovered that, in spite of his promises of kindness, Archelaus was as wicked as his father. So, history shows that they sent a delegation to Rome to protest his kingship. Augustus Caesar agreed with the Jews and appointed Archelaus to govern half of his father’s kingdom. But even this fulfilled prophecy Once again, Matthew points out that every detail in the life of Jesus was foretold in the Scriptures. It is important to note that Matthew did not refer to only one prophet in Matthew 2:23 but instead says that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophets (plural) We will not find any specific prophecy that calls Jesus a Nazarene. The term “Nazarene” was one of reproach. John 1:46 says, “Can any good thing come out of Nazareth?” In many Old Testament prophecies, the Messiah’s lowly life of rejection is mentioned, and this may be what Matthew had in mind. Who has ever heard of a king born in a humble village and growing up in a despised city like Nazareth? No one. He is different and entered this world this way to show us how we also ought to live.

Why a divine birth and homage to the King? is the topic that will be discussed today on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast. In episode 109 titled “God’s family tree is messed up, find out why” Matthew 1:1-17 we unpacked Jesus’s human heredity. His family members in His family tree were far from perfect, but God still chose to use their lineage to the birth of Christ, the Messiah, the Savior of the World. In the show this week, we will discuss Jesus’s Divine Heredity and just how Matthew will make it clear that Jesus’s birth was way different from that of any other Jewish boy named in the genealogy of Christ. Read Matthew 1:18-25 As we mentioned in our previous episode, Matthew pointed out that Joseph did not beget Jesus in the genealogy. Rather, Joseph was the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ. Jesus was born of an earthly mother without the need for an earthly Father. This is known as the doctrine of virgin birth. Miracles happen every day and, in this case, a miracle of the Holy Spirit happened. Jesus was conceived in the womb of Mary, a virgin, by the Holy Spirit. Both Mary and Joseph belonged to the house of David. The OT prophesies indicated that the Messiah would be born of a woman Gen 3:15, of the seed of Abraham Gen 22:18, through the tribe of Judah Gen 49:10 and of the family of David 2 Sam 7:12-13. To the Jewish people at that day, betrothal (engagement) was equivalent to marriage, except that the man and woman did not live together. They were called husband and wife, and at the end of the engagement period, the marriage was consummated. But what if she became pregnant during that time, what would happen? Before we move on to chapter 2 let’s consider the three names assigned to God’s son. The name “Jesus” means Savior and comes from the Hebrew name Joshua (Jehovah is salvation). There were many Jewish boys with the name Joshua (or, in the Greek, Jesus), but Mary’s boy was called “Jesus the Christ” Let’s move on to chapter 2 and read vs 1-12. Remember, in episode 109 we talked about what people want to see if someone calls themselves a king. They want to see if they have the proper bloodline, which we have already shown. We also proved that Jesus’s birth is a fulfillment of prophecy and He has through divine heredity. There is another thing people want to see and it is to see who are those that pay homage to Him. If He truly is a king then the people will bring honor to him. Read Matthew 2:1-12 First and foremost, we must confess we know little about these men. The word translated as “wise men” (magi) refers to a group of scholars who studied the stars. Their title connects them with magic, but they were probably more like astrologers. With this said, their presence in the biblical record is not a divine endorsement of astrology, but a way that God used science to bring people to him. We do not know how many magi were there. From the three gifts listed, some people have naturally assumed that there were three kings from the Orient, though this is not certain, When their caravan arrived in Jerusalem, there were enough of them to trouble the whole city. In Jesus are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge Col 2:3. In Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily Col 2:9) It is no surprise that Herod tried to kill Jesus, for Herod alone wanted to bear the title, of King of the Jews. There was also another reason why, because Herod was not a full-blooded Jew, he was actually an Idumaean, a descendant of Esau. This is a picture of the old struggle between Esau and Jacob that began even before the boys were born. Gen 25:19-34. It is the “spiritual” versus the “carnal”,the “Godly” versus the “worldly”. The King and the Jewish priests in vs 4 were ignoring the King. These priests knew the scripture and pointed others to the Savior, but they personally would not go to worship Him themselves! Matthew 2:9 indicates that the miraculous star was not always visible to the magi. As they started toward Bethlehem, they saw the star again, and it led them to the house where Jesus was.

God’s family tree is messed up, find out why is the topic that will be discussed today on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast. In the next 3 weeks leading up to Christmas, we are going to unpack Matthew 1 and Matthew 2. We will focus on the birth of Jesus and His proclamation to be king. Imagine you were alive during that time, and a man suddenly appeared and claimed to be a king, which you, the public, would want proof of. You might ask yourself, “What is his background? Who pays homage to him? What credentials can he present to prove that he is a King? Anticipating these important questions, Matthew opened his book with a careful account of the birth of Jesus and the events that accompanied it. He presented 4 facts about the King and over the next three weeks, we will unpack all 4 of those facts. The first one we will cover today is in chapter 1 verses 1-25 – The Heredity of the King. Since royalty depends on heredity, it was important for Jesus to establish His rights to David’s throne. Matthew gave His human heredity in verses 1-17, as well as His divine heredity in verses 18-25. Let’s read Matthew 1-17 Genealogies were very important to the Jews, for, without them, they could not prove their tribal membership or their rights to their inheritances. Anyone claiming to be the son of David had to be able to prove it. Many bible readers usually skip over this section of reading, especially all the unpronounceable names. But this list of names is a VITAL PART of the gospel record. It shows that Jesus is a part of history and that all of the Jewish histories prepared the way for his birth. The genealogy also illustrates God’s wonderful grace. It is most unusual to find the names of women in Jewish genealogies since names and inheritances came through the fathers. But in this list, we find 4 women from the Old Testament history: Tamar, Rahab and Ruth, and Bathsheba. Without Jesus’ birth as a gentile, we have no right to heaven or eternal life. We are all flawed sinners, in desperate need of God’s grace. These four women were all involved in sexual scandals and far from perfect, but God still chose to include them in His family tree. Let’s break down who these four women were. Let’s start with Tamar. We find the story of Tamar in Gen 38. We learn that her first husband was so evil that God put him to death. She has left a widow and childless. Tamar followed her cultural practices and married her husband’s brother. But this brother didn’t want to share his inheritance with children born to her. So, God put him to death, so she was left widowed and childless again. Tamar then dressed as a temple prostitute and put herself in the path of her father-in-law, Judah. So, she seduced him to have sex with her and produce an heir. She needed evidence, so she asked him for a seal and his staff so that she wouldn’t be killed and have proof of what happened. Her plan worked and she gave birth to twins fathered by her father-in-law. And one of her twins’ names was Peres, and they became part of Jesus’ Family. Then there was Rahab, we find her story in Joshua 2 and 6. She ran a brothel in Jericho, and she heard about God’s army advancing toward her town. She knew that they would win and helped the Israelites spy on her people, and in so doing, she became a part of the Israelite family. She and her family were the only ones saved from the destruction of Jericho. This former madam became a mother and grandmother and still found a way into Jesus’ lineage. Next Ruth, we find her story in Ruth 1-4, she was a Moabite, which means she traced her ancestry, not to Abraham but to his nephew Lot. Lot was the guy that impregnated his daughters while drunk. The family itself was an incestuous family and the culture Ruth came from. Her husband died and left her childless so she moved to Bethlehem with her mother-in-law, Naomi. There she met a Godly man named Boaz and He redeemed her and married her and gave her a child. Thus Ruth, a foreigner brought into the family, became a great-grandmother to David, whose greater son was Jesus. Last but not least, is Bathsheba the wife of Uriah. We find her story in 2 Samuel 11-12. We all know her story, David had an affair with her and then killed her husband to cover up the affair. But God restored her and gave her and David a son, Solomon, the wisest king ever to live. He found his way into Jesus’ genealogy. Jesus came from a long line of outsiders, outlaws, scoundrels, and sinners. When he entered into the world, he entered into the messiness of the human family, even in his own family. He was the only one in his family that did not bring shame to his family. Instead, he took upon himself the shame of every person in the family tree. Many Jewish men could have traced their family back to King David. Matthew knew it would take more than human pedigree to make Jesus the son of David and heir to David’s Throne. That is why next week we will unpack the divine heredity

Are you entitled and don’t know it is the topic that will be discussed today on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast. Imagine if many of your friends were recently invited on an all-expenses-paid international trip. It is great for them — but you were left out. Of course, your first reaction might be not to rejoice for their good fortune, or delight that they got to enjoy an incredible experience. Initially, your heart might be jealous, hurt, and stinging under a sense of entitlement. You wonder why they were chosen and not you, it’s not like you don’t all know the same people. In fact, you reason in your mind that you do more than they do for God’s kingdom, and if anyone deserved to go it was you. Before you know it, you realize that you might have an attitude of entitlement. Many times, throughout our lifetime, we have moments when we think we deserve more than we actually do, and when we don’t get it, our entitlement siren starts blaring. Watch out because when it does, we often act irrationally — in a way that looks foolish and maybe even childish from the outside. Read James 4:1-12 On the show today, we want to talk about how to recognize our own sense of entitlement, and what steps we can take to surrender it to God. First, we need to understand what entitlement truly is. Entitlement is the belief that we inherently deserve privileges or special treatment, or that we have the right to something. Entitlement shows no partiality; it will reach for life’s greatest gifts and claim its smallest pleasures. When it comes to the big parts of life, we can find ourselves thinking along these lines: “I deserve to have children, so why am I struggling with infertility? After all, aren’t children a blessing from God?” “I’m tired of being single. I’ve remained pure and sought Christ, so why hasn’t he brought a spouse into my life?” “I’m such a hard worker. I don’t understand why I still can’t manage to find a high-paying job.” But entitlement can also touch smaller issues: “I’m a good homemaker and work hard to keep the house clean and tidy. I deserve to have a nicer, bigger home.” “I work so hard to provide for my family. I deserve to watch TV when I come home.” “I’ve been good with my finances. I deserve to buy what I want for a change.” Paul wrote, “Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am” (Philippians 4:11). “The ‘entitlement mentality is dangerous because it is a threat to contentment.” -Andy Sochor “As long as our hearts have the entitlement mentality, personal growth in our relationship with God and with others will cease.” -Ray Kim What Are We Entitled To? There is no question that a sense of entitlement dominates many cultures around the world. If you think about it, it has been that way from the beginning, right back to the Garden of Eden. The issue of Entitlement has been cited by many as one of the major problems in the world, especially in America. “The growing entitlement mentality in America is completely toxic, slowly eating away at our spirits like acid” (David Ramsey). To help us understand entitlement better, we must think of it as a foundation of our sinful nature. And, as you do, look at it in the context of personal relationships, particularly in marriage. If you are single, think about it from the perspective of expectations in a relationship, now and in the future. Russell B. Lemle, Ph.D., is an Associate Clinical Professor in the Dept of Psychiatry, University of California San Francisco. He gives five reasons why we fall into entitlement: You are owed because of your sacrifice or generosity in the relationship. “I gave up my career to raise our children. You can at least let me redecorate the living room.” You are owed because you are feeling so emotional—so stressed, etc.—that your spouse must support what you want. “Since I work longer hours, you should pick up the kids from soccer practice.” “Listen, I’ve been home all-day cooking and cleaning, you go, I went last time.” Entitlement seems so legitimate when we feel strongly about something. “Having my own quiet time in the evening is vital to me; I don’t understand why you can’t go along with this.” Gender, as entitlement, has often been used as a way to get what we want, but it is not very effective. “Look, as head of the household, you should listen to me about ___________ (fill in the blank).” “I am the mother of these children; I know what is best for them.” If you are the primary breadwinner, money can be used. “I’ve earned the right to have time to play golf.” “It’s my money, and I will spend it, however, I want to.” Let’s face it, we likely have unknowingly inherited a lot of ideas about entitlement from our parents (and our kids are learning from us). From their influence, without thinking, we may insist that our way is the “right” way to do things, especially if we believe it is the most efficient. Many times, a spouse falls into entitlement when what they want

Being thankful when life isn’t fair is the topic that will be discussed today on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast. Thanksgiving Day marks an annual celebration of family, food, football, and fun. But for Christians, Thanksgiving has a much deeper meaning that goes to the core of their spiritual beliefs. The original Thanksgiving celebration was held by the Pilgrim settlers in Massachusetts during their second winter in America in December, 1621. The first winter killed 44 of the original 102 colonists. At one point, their daily food ration was down to five kernels of corn apiece, but then an unexpected trading vessel arrived, swapping beaver pelts for grain, providing for their severe need. The next summer’s crop brought hope, and Governor William Bradford decreed that December 13, 1621, be set aside as a day of feasting and prayer to show the gratitude of the colonists that they were still alive. These Pilgrims, seeking religious freedom and opportunity in America, gave thanks to God for His provision for them in helping them find 20 acres of cleared land, for the fact that there were no hostile Native Americans in that area, for their newfound religious freedom, and for God’s provision of an interpreter to the Native Americans in Squanto. Along with the feasting and games involving the colonists and more than 80 Native Americans (who added to the feast by bringing wild turkeys and venison), prayers, November sermons, and songs of praise were important in the celebration. Three days were spent in feasting and prayer. From that time forward, Thanksgiving has been celebrated as a day to give thanks to God for His gracious and sufficient provision. President Abraham Lincoln officially set aside the last Thursday of November, in 1863, “as a day of thanksgiving and praise to our beneficent Father.” In 1941, Congress ruled that after 1941, the fourth Thursday of be observed as Thanksgiving Day and be a legal holiday. Scripturally, we find things related to the issue of Thanksgiving nearly from cover to cover. Individuals offered up sacrifices out of gratitude in the book of Genesis. The Israelites sang a song of thanksgiving as they were being delivered from Pharaoh’s army after the crossing of the Red Sea. Exodus 15:15 Then Moses and the people of Israel sang this song to the Lord, saying, “I will sing to the Lord, for he has triumphed gloriously; the horse and his rider he has thrown into the sea. 2 The Lord is my strength and my song, and he has become my salvation; In the New Testament, there are repeated admonitions to give thanks to God. Thanksgiving should always be included in our prayers. Some of the most remembered passages on the giving of thanks are the following: “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, and in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you” (1 Thessalonians 5:16–18). “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God” (Philippians 4:6). “Therefore, I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men” (1 Timothy 2:1). If the stresses of life are getting the best of you this Thanksgiving season, Maybe try some of these ideas that might help recenter your focus * Write a Thanksgiving Poem or Prayer * Share Thanksgiving Bible verses with friends and family * Remember things of the past that you were thankful for * Take communion and give thanks to Jesus for what He has done for you. * Be a blessing to others by donating your time or a gift so that they can receive your Thanksgiving blessing. We, like the Pilgrims, have a choice. In life, there will always be things that we can complain about (the Pilgrims had lost many loved ones), but there will also be so much to be thankful for. As our society becomes increasingly secular, the actual “giving of thanks to God” during our annual Thanksgiving holiday is being overlooked, leaving only the feasting. May God grant that He may find us grateful every day for all of His gifts, spiritual and material.

Why is Christian Fellowship so important is the topic that will be discussed today on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast. God never intended for His people to be separate. In the very beginning, God said, “It is not good for man to be alone.” That has not changed. It is even more important for the followers of Jesus to come together. Terms such as “family,” “together,” and “fellowship” are all important concepts in the New Testament for us to gather together and encourage one another. Fellowship is the relationship that we have with one another as Christians. It is based on the relationship we have with Jesus Christ. When you and I became Christians, three relationships changed: Jesus became our Savior; God became our Father, and the church became our family. In other words, believers are now my brothers and sisters in Christ and accepted into the family of God. To help us set up why Christian fellowship is so important. Let’s read Acts 2: 41-47. Peter has just finished preaching and here is what happens: “Then those who gladly received his word were baptized, and that day about three thousand souls were added to them. And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers. Then fear came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were done through the apostles. Now all who believed were together, and had all things in common, and sold their possessions and goods, and divided them among all, as anyone had need. So, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved” So today we want to help answer the question, “Why is Christian fellowship so important?” The 1st reason why it’s so important is that FELLOWSHIP GIVES US A PICTURE OF GOD Each of us coming together shows all of God’s graces to the world. No one is perfect. We all sin, but each one of us has a purpose here on Earth and that is to show aspects of God to those around us. Each of us has been given specific spiritual gifts. When we come together in fellowship, it’s like us, as a whole, demonstrating God. Think of it like a cake. You need flour, sugar, eggs, oil, and more to make a cake. The eggs will never be the flour. None of them make up the cake alone. Yet together, all those ingredients make a delicious cake. It’s like that with fellowship. All of us together show the glory of God. The 2nd reason is that FELLOWSHIP MAKES US STRONGER No matter where we are in our faith, the fellowship provides us with strength. Being around other believers gives us the chance to learn and grow in our faith. It demonstrates to us why we believe, and sometimes it is an excellent food for our souls. It’s great to be out in the world evangelizing others, but it can easily make us hard and eat away at our strength. When we deal with a hard-hearted world, it can become easy to fall into that hard-heartedness and question our beliefs. It’s always good to spend some time in fellowship so that we remember that God makes us strong. The 3rd reason is that FELLOWSHIP PROVIDES ENCOURAGEMENT We all have bad moments. Whether it’s the loss of a loved one, a failed exam, money problems, or even a crisis of faith, we can find ourselves down. If we go too low, it can lead to anger and a feeling of disillusionment with God. Yet these downtimes are why fellowship is essential. Spending time with other believers can often lift us up a little bit. They help us to keep our eyes on God. God also works through them to provide us with what we need in darker times. Coming together with others can aid in our healing process and give us the encouragement to move forward. The 4th reason is that FELLOWSHIP REMINDS US WE ARE NOT ALONE Coming together with other believers in worship and conversation helps to remind us that we are not alone in this world. There are believers everywhere. It’s amazing that no matter where you are in the world when you meet another believer, it’s like you suddenly feel at home. That’s why God made fellowship so important. He wanted us to come together so that we always know we were not alone. Fellowship enables us to form long-lasting relationships, ensuring that we are never alone in the world. The 5th reason why is that FELLOWSHIP HELPS US GROW CLOSER TO JESUS Coming together is a great way for each of us to grow in our faith. Reading our Bibles and praying are great ways to get closer to God, but each of us has important lessons to impart to one another. When we come together in fellowship, we teach each other things. God gives us a gift of learning and growing when we come together in fellowship and show each other how to live as God wants us to live and walk in His footsteps. Satan does not want us to fellowship together, so we must resist the temptation to remain separated. Let us

Does God send people to hell? is the topic that will be discussed today on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast. This week we are finishing up John Chapter 12, we have been in this chapter now for 3 shows. In Episode 101 we unpacked John 12:1-19, we called that show “Worship, Triumph, and Tears”. In verses, 1-8 we saw Jesus visiting with Mary, Martha, and Lazarus, the highlight of those verses was when Mary anointed Jesus with costly perfume as an act of worship. Then in vs 12, we went to the “Triumphal Entry” of Jesus into Jerusalem where the people cried out Hosanna blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord. We cross-referenced a verse and learned in Luke, that Jesus was weeping for His people during this time. He loved them so much and yet, they were still going to reject Him. In episode 102 titled “The Greatest Life investment ever” we read John 12:20-36 in which Jesus was talking about His certain death to come. We uncovered nugget verses like vs 25, He who loves his life will lose it, and he who hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life. Those were two great shows and are definitely worth the listen if you haven’t already done so yet. This week we will finish up John chapter 12 in verses 37-50. The key word in this section of reading is “believe”. It is used 8 different times in these verses. First, John explained the unbelief of the people. Then in vs 37-38, he said they would “not believe” with a quotation from Isa 53:1; in vs 39, He said they “could not believe” and finally in vs 40-41 he said they “should not believe” with a quotation of Isa 6:9-10 Read John 12:37-49 In spite of all the clear evidence that was presented to the people, the Jews would not believe. The “arm of the Lord” had been revealed to them in great power, yet they closed their eyes to the truth. They had heard the message (report) and seen the miracles and yet still would not believe. Why? There were those who would not believe, and there were those who would not openly confess Christ, even though they had believed. They cared more about the praise of the people than they did with the praise of God. Why?! In John 12:44-50, we have Jesus’s last ever message before He hid himself from the people. A number of basic themes in John’s gospel are: God sent the Son; to see the Son means to see the Father; Jesus is the light of the World; His words are the very words of God; faith in Him brings salvation; to reject Him is to face eternal Judgement. In fact, the very word that He spoke will judge those who have rejected it and Him! Many people reject truth simply because of the fear of people as we discussed earlier. Among those who will be in hell, are the fearful (Rev 21:8) The word “judge” is repeated 4 times in the closing words of this message, and a solemn word it is. Jesus did not come to judge; He came to save! As we have studied these first 12 chapters of the gospel of John, we have seen Jesus in His life, His ministry, His miracles, His message, and His desire to save the lost sinners. John 12:36 While you have the light, believe in the light, that you may become sons of light.

Are Current World Events signs of the End Times? is the topic that will be discussed today on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast. Our thought on this show is to talk about world events and give our opinions. The key to the show is to help Christians learn how to view all of this in light of Christ and the Bible. Give them hope and encourage them to be ready for Christ return at any moment. We spoke about some of the global events taking place right now. Some of these are: 1. China Threat to Taiwan 2. China joins forces with Iran and Russia 3. Iran close to having Nuclear bomb, BB Netanyahu says they cannot allow them to have bomb 4. Iranians Christian movement, how they are big in Afghanistan 5. What about USA send money to Ukraine, how does it make sense. With 30 trillion in debt, high inflation can we afford to be the worlds policeman? 6. Biden says were close to Armageddon and Nuclear War 7. Biden administration spends 300 million on radiation pills 8. America election what’s on the ballot 9. North Korea sending missiles over Japan 10. Drought in the west, lake mead, lake Powel at record lows 11. Conservative Leaders in Italy and Sweden is conservative better than liberal politics? The first signs (the beginning of the “birth pains”): 1. Many will come in Jesus’ name claiming to be the Messiah; they’ll deceive many. 2. There will be wars and threats of wars. 3. Famine, earthquakes, and plagues (widespread disease) in many parts of the world. 4. Terrible sights and great signs from heaven. The next stage: 1. Christians will be hated all over the world; they will be arrested, persecuted, and killed. 2. Many will turn away from Jesus; they will betray their own family and hate each other. 3. Many false prophets will appear; they will deceive many people. 4. Sin will be rampant, and people’s love will grow cold. 5. The Good News of the Kingdom will be preached throughout the entire world, so that all nations will hear it; then, the end will come. The final stage: 1. You will see the “abomination of desolation,” prophesied by Daniel, in the holy place. This refers to Daniel 11:31, which is some sort of unholy sacrifice in the temple. 2. Armies will surround Jerusalem. 3. A great tribulation – or persecution – like nothing ever seen in the world’s history, will happen. 4. False messiahs and false prophets will arise. They will perform miracles and even deceive Christians. The end: 1. Immediately after the tribulation, the sun and moon will be darkened, stars will fall from the sky, and heaven’s powers will be shaken. 2. The Son of Man (Jesus) will appear in the heavens. Everyone will see Him coming on the clouds with great power and glory. 3. Most people in the world will mourn when they see Jesus (probably suddenly realizing they were wrong about Him, or knowing they are in sin) (Revelation 14) 4. Jesus will send out His angels with the mighty trumpet blast. They will gather His chosen ones from everywhere. Matthew 24:14 (ESV) “And this gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.” 5. For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive, who remain, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord.” (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17) 6. Matthew 24:44 “So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.”

Should Christians Participate in Halloween? is the topic that will be discussed today on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast. Should Christians participate in Halloween? We have found that this question can be a very controversial topic. Some Christians celebrate Halloween simply by dressing up in a costume and having fun, seeing it as innocent and harmless. Other Christians are equally convinced that Halloween is a satanic holiday established to worship evil spirits and promote darkness and wickedness. So, who is right? Is it possible for Christians to celebrate Halloween without compromising their faith? Halloween, no matter how commercialized, has almost completely pagan origins. As innocent as it may seem to some, it is not something to be taken lightly. Christians tend to have various ways to celebrate or not celebrate Halloween. For some, it means having an “alternative” Harvest Party. For others, it is staying away from ghosts, witches, goblins, etc., and wearing innocuous costumes, e.g., little princesses, clowns, cowboys, superheroes, etc. Some choose not to do anything, electing to lock themselves in their house with the lights off. With our freedom as Christians, we are at liberty to decide how to act. Scripture does not speak at all about Halloween, but it does give us some principles on which we can make a decision. In Old Testament Israel, witchcraft was a crime punishable by death Exodus 22:18 “You shall not permit a sorceress to live. Leviticus 19:31 “Do not turn to mediums or seek out spiritists, for you will be defiled by them. I am the Lord your God.” Leviticus 20:6 “If a person turns to mediums and necromancers, whoring after them, I will set my face against that person and will cut him off from among his people.” The New Testament teaching about the occult is clear. Acts 8:9-24, the story of Simon, shows that occultism and Christianity don’t mix. The account of Elymas the sorcerer in Acts 13:6-11 reveals that sorcery is violently opposed to Christianity. Paul called Elymas a child of the devil, an enemy of righteousness, and a perverter of the ways of God. In Acts 16, at Philippi, a fortune-telling girl lost her demon powers when the evil spirit was cast out by Paul. The interesting matter here is that Paul refused to allow even good statements to come from a demon-influenced person. Acts 19 shows new converts who have abruptly broken with their former occultism by confessing, showing their evil deeds, bringing their magic paraphernalia, and burning it before everyone (Acts 19:19). Should Christians watch Horror films? Movies are a powerful medium, and they have a profound impact on culture. And the sad truth is that many movies these days, including those outside the scary “horror” genre, are either completely antithetical to Christian values or at the very least are at odds with God’s divine standard of holiness. As for most horror movies, their “entertainment” value often lies in their ability to titillate our youthful desire to be scared witless. The gruesome means by which moviemakers attempt to shock our consciences usually involves an abundance of carnage and bloodshed. The problem is, however, that it takes more and more to shock seared consciences these days, which means the level of depravity is continually on the rise to accommodate our increasing desensitization to hard-core gore and evil. All things considered, true Christians would likely find it difficult to enjoy the majority of today’s horror movies. So, should a Christian celebrate Halloween? Is there anything evil about a Christian dressing up as a princess or cowboy and going around the block asking for candy? No, there is not. Are there things about Halloween that are anti-Christian and should be avoided? Absolutely! If parents are going to allow their children to participate in Halloween, they should make sure to keep them from getting involved in the darker aspects of the day. If Christians are going to take part in Halloween, their attitude, dress, and most importantly, their behavior should still reflect a redeemed life (Philippians 1:27). There are many churches that hold “harvest festivals” and incorporate costumes but in a godly environment. There are many Christians who hand out tracts that share the Gospel along with the Halloween candy. The decision is ultimately ours to make. But as with all things, we are to incorporate the principles of Romans 14. We can’t allow our own convictions about a holiday to cause division in the body of Christ, nor can we use our freedom to cause others to stumble in their faith. We are to do all things as to the Lord.

Greatest Life Investment Ever is the topic that will be discussed today on RIOT Podcast, a Christian Discipleship Podcast. In Episode 101 we unpacked John 12:1-19, we called that show Worship, Triumph, and Tears. In verses, 1-8 we saw Jesus visiting with Mary, Martha, and Lazarus, the highlight of those verses was when Mary anointed Jesus with costly perfume as an act of worship. Then in vs 12, we went to the Triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem where the people cried out Hosanna Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord. We cross-referenced a verse and learned in Luke that Jesus was weeping for His people during this time. He loved them so much and yet they were still going to reject Him. This week we are going to be back in John 12 with our reading of verses 20-36. We will see Jesus talking about His certain death to come. We will uncover some nugget verses like vs 25, He who loves his life will lose it, and he who hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life. Many people are greatly concerned about success but understand so little of its true nature. We want bigger, better, and longer lasting, but many times end up with what is smaller, worse, and short-lived. It is much like running around doing everything you can do to catch your dream. You grab your piece of the dream and once you grab it you hold on to that dream, but life happens and it crumbles into small pieces of dust in your hands, like sand it runs through your fingers to the ground. The circle of life is hard and you wonder if there is more to this life. Today, we are going to unpack Jesus teaching the people about how to invest in their life properly. He will teach us how to make the greatest investment in our life and why trusting Him with our dreams will always end better than them ending up crumbling in the end. Read John 12:20-36 Let’s give some context to these verses. Before His speech to these certain Greeks about losing their life for His sake, we learn that John leaves out a big event of what Jesus did next after His triumphal entry. In Mark 11 we read that Jesus cleansed the temple for the second time right after. In Mark 11, He quoted Jesus saying in Isaiah 56:7 “Is it not written My house shall be called of nations the house of prayer? But you have made it a den of thieves.” The original text indicates that these Greeks were accustomed to coming and worshiping at the feast. They were not curious visitors or one-time investigators. No doubt they were God-fearers, Gentiles who attended the Jewish synagogue and sought the truth but had not yet become followers of Jesus. These men kept asking Philip for the privilege of an interview with Jesus. Phillip finally told Andrew (who was often bringing people to Jesus) and Andrew gave the request to Jesus. These Gentiles visitors either did not know of the danger surrounding Jesus or didn’t care. We have to commend them for wanting to see Jesus. The Jews would say they want to see a sign but, these men said we would see Jesus. The funny thing is there is no record that Jesus did talk with these men, but the message that He gave in the response contains the truth that all of us need. The central theme of this message is the glory of God 23, 28. We would have expected Jesus to say, the hour has come, that the Son of man should be crucified. But Jesus saw beyond the cross to the glory that would follow. In fact, the glory of God is an important theme in the remaining chapters of John’s gospel. A seed is weak and useless, but when it is planted, it dies and becomes fruitful. God’s children are like seeds. They are small and insignificant, but they have life in them, God’s life. However, that life can never be fulfilled unless we yield ourselves to God and permit Him to plant us. In these words in vs 26 “if anyone serves Me, let him follow me, and where I am there my servant will be also.” Jesus is challenging us to be planted in Him with the surrendering of our lives to go where He goes. If we do this He says My Father will honor you. Jesus knew that He was facing suffering and death, and His humanity responded to this ordeal. No doubt vs 27 says “His soul was troubled, not because He was questioning the Father’s will, but because He was fully conscious of all that the cross involved.” Note after Jesus said His soul is troubled He did not say “What shall I do” but He said, “what shall I say.” The Term Father glorify your name, got an audible reply from God. The Son’s past life and ministry had glorified the Father, and Son’s future suffering and death would glorify the Father. It is significant that the Father spoke to the Son at the beginning of Son’s ministry Matt 3:17 as the Son began his ministry and now as the son entered the last days before the cross. Notice the people heard the sound but did not know the message that had been conveyed. Yet, if the voice was for their sakes and they could not understand it, what good was it? In that the voice assur