Wake Before the Day

Usually when it's too good to be true it usually is but in the case of Romans 5, it's not! God tells us that the experiences in life that have brought heartache and hardship can be used for our good. Another liberating truth we need to hold on to is that it when we were in the midst of our sin Jesus chose to die for us. Let's unpack this amazing news!

It seems God wants to make it really clear to us that salvation is found in repenting and believing, accepting the free gift of faith. There is no "Faith + _________". Just believe. When we remember who God is (faithful, true, wise, holy, good) it should minimize our fear when following God's leading!

Paul concludes his thoughts from Romans 1 and 2 in chapter 3. His conclusion? We're all sinners and need Jesus! In order to fully understand the grace of God we need to understand our need for God.

We discuss Romans 2 which lays out: God's kindness, crime mob bosses, hypocrisy and much more!

Romans 1 discusses many things: nature proving God exists but being unable to save, humanity's need for a sinless savior, sexual immorality and the lie that world is "advanced" and offers wisdom. The reality is there's nothing new nor is there "progress" in these immoral world views. We all need Jesus and he calls us to obedience, there is where real freedom is found!

The last podcast on the book of Acts! Paul finished strong and committed his life and ministry to Jesus all the way to the end.

Acts 27 is a jam packed chapter dealing with Paul as he sails stormy seas headed to Rome. Here is a takeaway from this chapter. The first is don't minimize the journey you're on. Often we're focused on the destination but God is with you on the journey. He speaks. We're to be obedient and listen even when it doesn't make sense!

We have a responsibility to speak of Jesus. Don't minimize a small conversation nor should we get overwhelmed with the stage!

The evil one uses sin to form accusations against God's people. The good news is Jesus is our defender and vindicator. 

In Acts 24 Paul is on his way to Rome and continues to have high-stakes conversations regarding Jesus and salvation. In this chapter Paul has a conversation with a leader named Felix. Felix makes a subtle but relevant statement, "I'll listen to you when it's convenient for me". How often do I follow God only because it's convenient?

Let's talk about the significance of "place" and God's redemption. 20 years later, Paul stood where Stephen once stood.

In Acts 22 Paul shares the Gospel by sharing his story. We've all heard "the power of story" and for the christian our story becomes especially powerful when we acknowledge our inability and God's ability.

There is power in story and let's unpack the importance of loving the existing church while welcoming the newcomer.

Devotion: strong love and loyalty; the use of time, money and energy for a specific purpose. The word "devotion" isn't used much in this chapter but this is what we see. Paul continues to lay in all on the line, speaking truth to "opponents", spending time in jail, traveling to far off cities, why? Because he's a devoted follower of Jesus. How devoted are we as follower...

There is no "second baptism" of the Spirit. The Spirit lives within the believer and can come upon the believer for empowerment!

We all need friends and a spiritual support system. Paul did. We do. Acts 18 reveals the inner workings of the church!

Acts 17 encourages and challenges us in many ways. Who can be part of the church? Anyone and everyone who confesses Jesus as Lord! Examine the scriptures yourselves - please don't be spoon fed whatever is floating around online. What does it mean to be God fearing? Let's break it down!

Acts 16 reminds us: the Gospel is for the churched and unchurched, baptism is a gift and that prayer + praise = perspective!

Financial crime experts study the real dollar rather than counterfeits. The same needs to be true with us and the Bible, hear why!

Let's discuss the importance of the "Word of God" complimenting the "Work of God" and how to avoid the disaster Paul and Barnabas found themselves in.

The Christians in this chapter encourage us to follow their example: fast, pray and listen for the Lord to speak. As we let this Biblical truth wash over us we're reminded that God has forgiven us not only from sin but from every sin. Let's live in this freedom!

In Acts 12 we read about the church praying powerful prayers yet being in disbelief when the prayers were answered! The Bible also compares and contrasts Herod and the apostles when it comes to receiving praise. Let's dive in and learn from Acts 12.

Acts shows us that God can bring a great deal of good and growth out of the pain and messiness of life!

Don't count out anyone for being outside the reach of God's love! We all have "those people" in our life. God loves them, we should too! Acts 10 is one of the most important chapters in the New Testament as it marks the first time Jews and Gentiles got together for worship.

It takes courage to love your enemies and know that God wants to use your past to bless your future!