Faithful Sayings Podcast: Recent Episodes
Kyle Pope
Date: June 5, 2024
Speaker: Austin Byers
This episode begins half-way through the class and we apologize!
First lesson in a series of lessons given by different men on Sunday Morning covering the concept of "One Another Christianity"
Date: April 7, 2024
Speaker: Austin Byers
In this lesson we study the conversions recorded in the Acts of the Apostles.
Date: March 13, 2024
Speaker: Brady McAlister
In our Wednesday Evening Bible class on Evangelism this week we looked at Lesson 6: God's Eternal Purpose - How to introduce someone to the timeline of the Bible.
Date: March 6, 2024
Speaker: Brady McAlister
Sunday Morning Bible class on the Gospel of John. In this class we examine the crucifixion, death, and burial of Jesus.
Date: March 10, 2024
Speaker: Dayle Tipton
Sunday Morning Bible class on the Gospel of John. This class we finish our discussion of Chapter 18 and begin Chapter 19.
Date: March 3, 2024
Speaker: Dayle Tipton
In our Wednesday Evening Bible class on Evangelism this week we looked at Lesson 5: Turning the Conversation. We study Jesus' ability to take everyday conversations and turn them into spiritual conversations.
Date: February 21, 2024
Speaker: Austin Byers
Sunday Morning Bible class on the Gospel of John. This class we read and discuss John 18.
Date: February 25, 2024
Speaker: Dayle Tipton
Sunday Morning Bible class on the Gospel of John. This class we read and discuss John 17.
Date: February 18, 2024
Speaker: Austin Byers
Sunday Morning Bible class on the Gospel of John. This class we read and discuss John 15:25 - John 16:33.
Date: February 11, 2024
Speaker: Austin Byers
Sunday Morning Bible class on the Gospel of John. This class we read and discuss John 14:25-15:25.
Date: February 4, 2024
Speaker: Austin Byers
Sunday Morning Bible class on the Gospel of John. This class we read and discuss John 13:21-14:25.
Date: January 28, 2024
Speakers: Austin Byers, Dayle Tipton
In our Wednesday Evening Bible class on Evangelism this week we looked at Lesson 4: Principles in Evangelism. Topics include how to start a conversation and guidance from the Apostle Paul.
Date: January 24, 2024
Speaker: Austin Byers
Christ's temptations in the wilderness and the temptations of our day facing the children of God.
Date: January 21, 2024
Speakers: Austin Byers
Sunday Morning Bible class on the Gospel of John
Date: January 21, 2024
Speakers: Austin Byers, Dayle Tipton
Wednesday Evening Bible class on Evangelism. We consider how the Lord views seeking the lost by studying the 15th chapter of the Gospel of Luke.
Date: January 17, 2024
Speaker: Austin Byers
Introducing the preaching theme for 2024: "The Family of God"
Date: January 14, 2024
Speaker: Austin Byers
Sunday Morning Bible class on the book of John
Date: January 14, 2024
Speakers: Austin Byers, Dayle Tipton
Wednesday Evening Bible class on Evangelism. In this class, we consider the "The Parable of the Lighthouse" and what the Lord's church is supposed to look like.
Date: January 10, 2024
Speaker: Austin Byers
Sunday Morning Bible class on the book of John
Date: January 7, 2024
Speaker: Dayle Tipton
First Wednesday evening class on evangelism taught by Austin Byers covering the topics of where to begin and what evangelism is not.
Date: January 3, 2024
Speaker: Austin Byers
In the opening verses of the sixth chapter of Paul’s letter to the Romans he offers some powerful teaching on how one can become dead to sin and the role baptism plays in this death. What does the Holy Spirit teach in this text? Have you died to sin?
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Paul’s letters encourage us towards a spiritual perspective on life that rises above what our eyes can see, and our hands can touch. This is especially true in his words in 1 Corinthians 7:29-31. What lessons can this teach us about how Christians should view their lives in this world?
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The apostle Paul told the Corinthians, “No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it” (1 Cor. 10:13, NKJV). How is this demonstrated in David's sin with Bathsheba? What were his his ways “of escape” and how did he miss them?
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To the south of the ancient city of Jerusalem a valley curved to the west that was first identified in Scripture as “the valley of the Son of Hinnom” (Josh. 15:8; 18:16). It is first mentioned as a landmark setting the boundaries of the territories of Judah and Benjamin. As time went on this valley would be associated with some of the most horrible acts of wickedness and serve as a figure and a name for eternal punishment itself.
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In Matthew 5:33-37 Jesus offers the fourth of a series of antitheses by which He contrasts His own teaching with Mosaic Law and rabbinical tradition. This contrast addresses the issue of oaths. What does Jesus prohibit in this text and how must His commands be applied today?
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Two commands found in the New Testament could easily be misunderstood as offering contradictory instructions to Christians regarding their behavior towards others. What are these passages and what is the Holy Spirit teaching in these two passages?
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Throughout history there have been religious groups that have believed that the promises of Christ reigning for 1000 years, described in Revelation chapter twenty, speak of a coming earthly kingdom. Let’s consider what the Bible teaches about these doctrines.
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Paul ends his second epistle to the Corinthians in much the same way he ends many of his epistles, with personal greetings and words of encouragement. Of particular note is the command, “Greet one another with a holy kiss” (2 Cor 13:12, NKJV). What exactly is Paul commanding here? Is this command binding on us today? If not, how does this differ from other commands we are given?
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Because of so much division and confusion in the religious world, many people believe the Bible is not a book that can be understood and followed. In the religious world, some have taught that the Bible cannot be properly understood without the church or the Holy Spirit aiding in its interpretation. What does the Bible teach about this?
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Mark 12:30 reads—“‘you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ This is the first commandment” (NKJV). How does Jesus use the term "heart" here? What does it mean to love God with all of the heart?
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Have you ever formed a religious concept in your head, that seems so clear, so true, and so logical—but the source of that concept is not Scripture? The intensity of the thought can be almost overwhelming, as you start to feel as if you understand the mind of God. The question you must ask if you have ever been faced with such a strong feeling is, How do you know?
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Change is one on the constants we can expect in life. This can be frightening and unsettling. What a comfort it is to know that in a world filled with change, we serve a God who does not change. His eternal nature offers us the assurance and security we need in an ever-changing world
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If we are nothing more than the molecules and chemicals that make up our bodies, when we die that ends our existence. But, the Bible teaches something much different. What does the Bible to teach about the "everlasting home" of human beings?
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We often worry about how we will have the things we need as we pass through stages of life. How will we make a living? What if the economy collapses? While these concerns are natural Christians must not forget that God extends provision to His people throughout every stage of life.
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Why does evil exist in the world? If there really is a God, why does He allow evil things to happen? If He created all things, is He the creator of evil? What does the Bible teach about these difficult questions?
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How does the biblical portrait of the church described in the New Testament match how the world pictures the church? How do our own concepts conform to this picture?
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On occasion, the Bible speaks of things happening that God is said to "regret." How can an all-knowing God "regret" anything? How should we understand this aspect of God's makeup?
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Critics of faith often appeal to prayer as a reason to reject the validity of faith altogether. They conclude if prayers are not answered there is no God or He is cruel and unwilling to help those who believe in Him. What does the Bible teach regarding these charges regarding prayer?
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How is the name of God used in common speech today? Is it used with respect and reverence, or with casual disregard? For many people, it has become nothing more than a way to express surprise or dismay. What does the Bible teach about the use of the Lord's name?
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Many Christians have begun using the formal equivalence translation known as the English Standard Version. When reading from this translation in the book of Malachi, the student of Scripture will notice at once a reading dramatically different from that found in most other English translations. Why is this the case? What is the evidence behind these different renderings?
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If I call a piece of broccoli an "apple," does it make it an apple? If I do it long enough, will it ever become an apple? Only the Bible can tell us what it truly means to be a Christian. Am I truly a Christian or am I just applying that name to myself when I am not truly a disciple of Christ?
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We've all heard the expression, "now that's living!" In Ephesians 2:1-10 Paul describes a condition of true spiritual life. He does not offer fleeting and superficial hope that rests in material things. Paul addresses the significance and glory of what it means to be alive in Christ.
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In every human relationship, there can be times when things happen that damage the trust, closeness, and love that once existed. How should Christians handle such damaged relationships? What should be done? Whether we are talking about relationships between classmates, co-workers, family members, or members of a congregation what does the Bible teach about mending broken relationships?
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A battle the Israelites fought against the Canaanite city of Ai teaches some important lessons that can help Christians as they face their own spiritual warfare.
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Our world is filled with confusion. How should we live? What should we believe? How do we cope with life's trials? Is there a way to find peace in such confusion? Can one find a sense of direction? The good new of Jesus Christ offers the confused soul direction, guidance, and the way to go from confusion to peace.
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Spiritual immaturity can have a profound impact on the functioning of a local congregation. Understanding some ways this can happen will not only safeguard against the problems this can cause but it can also stir us towards maturity in our own lives.
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Throughout the religious world, men and women promote and express confidence in concepts of salvation in Christ that are not found in Scripture. What does the Bible teach about salvation? How does this differ from false concepts taught by denominations of men?
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The apostle Paul fulfilled a special role in bringing the gospel to Gentiles in the first century. His work offers us some powerful and important lessons as we seek to spread the gospel in our own world.
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The book of Acts is the inspired history of the early church. It sets patterns for how early men and women first obeyed the gospel and worshipped God under the New Covenant. What patterns can be discerned from what the book of Acts teaches us about prayer in the early church?
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Since the beginning of man’s life outside the Garden of Eden bread has been the food God has set forth to sustain man’s life. When Israel was in the wilderness God fed them with bread from heaven. After the feeding of the 5,000, Jesus identified Himself in this same way, as the bread which came down from from heaven. What did this mean? What was Jesus teaching?
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The world has many different ideas about the conscience from a soft voice that speaks in one’s head, to a cute cherub that appears on the shoulder. What does Scripture teach about this part of our inner being that is called the conscience?
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From time to time the critic of faith or the believer facing doubts levels the charge against God that He is inconsistent. The argument is that He makes laws for human beings but violates those laws Himself. If this is true, it is argued, then God demands more of us than He does of Himself. Is this argument valid? How can this charge be answered?
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We have all seen them—those flashing signs that tell you your speed in relation to the posted speed limit. If you are going too fast they give you a gentle warning that helps you change your speed before getting a ticket. These familiar street signs parallel some powerful principles that we should realize about spiritual things.
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Is death the end of life? When life passes from the body, do we cease to exist? The Bible teaches that physical death does not bring human existence to an end. Instead, death is described as "sleep." What does the Bible teach about this "sleep" of death?
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Why does life so often feel overwhelming? How much interest do we take in the lives of others? If most of your focus is only on your own troubles and hardships, perhaps it is time you need to "step outside of yourself!"
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Most people consider themselves to be "good people," but what defines what is good? If I do wrong, am I still a "good" person? Before God, is anyone truly "good"? Does God's grace automatically excuse the sins committed by children of God? If not what does the Bible teach that Christians should do if sin comes into their lives? Do "good people" continue in sin?
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In the past, victims of mistreatment or life's hardships were ignored and abuse was "swept under the rug." Now, the increased spotlight on conditions people have had to endure has led to another extreme. It has become fashionable for more and more people to see ourselves as victims. What are the causes and results of this mindset? Does the Bible encourage this view of ourselves and our lives?
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The name by which God identified Himself to Moses, in Exodus 3:14, declared something profound about the nature of God—He is not one who has been or one who will be. Rather, He simply is self-existent, eternal, and ever-present. In John 8:58, Jesus uses the same words to identify Himself. This, and other statements Jesus makes using the words "I Am," also tell us about His nature, power, and identity.
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In his letters to the Ephesians and Colossians Paul urged the brothers and sisters in both congregations to live their lives “redeeming the time” (Eph. 5:16; Col. 4:5b). How does one redeem time? How much time do we have to redeem? Is it morbid and pessimistic to consider such questions? How well am I “redeeming the time” in my life?
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The Bible teaches that faith is essential to salvation, but how does Scripture define saving faith? What does it involve and how is it demonstrated? In what must we put our faith? Is it grounded upon our feelings and emotions or upon an objective standard? .
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In Peter’s second epistle, he appeals to us to appreciate the value of history. Not because of what history can show us about ourselves or past civilizations, but because of what it can show us about God.
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When the Lord brought the children of Israel out of the land of Egypt, He forbade them from using His name "in vain." Jesus taught that God's name should be "hallowed." Why is it so important how the name of the Lord is used?
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Near the end of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus gave a command to His disciples that presents some questions and challenges to all who would follow Him. What is the Lord teaching in this text and how should it be applied in our lives?
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What does the Bible teach about sins of ignorance——that is, sins we commit without realizing it, or commit concerning matters of which we are ignorant? Can they be forgiven? What provision has the Lord made to address these transgressions when they come into our lives?
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A favorite target of critics of faith concerns two kings mentioned eight times each in the book of Daniel: Belshazzar and Darius the Mede. Unfortunately much of secular history does not record the existence of either of these figures. This has led some to conclude that neither of these kings mentioned in Daniel actually existed and Daniel was wrong. Is this charge true? If not, what is the evidence for their existence?
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There is something about a new birth that reminds us of our own days of youth and innocence. This is true not only of physical birth, but spiritual birth as well. It is a joyous thing when a sinner turns from the darkness of sin, putting faith in Christ, to have his or her sins washed away in baptism by the blood of Christ. Let's consider a few questions about such times of spiritual birth.
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Many people struggle from time to time with the mindset known in modern times as paranoia—a fear that other people are against us, talking bad about us, or trying to hurt us. Should Christians allow such a mindset to go unchecked? Are there dangers it offers to our service in Christ? Does the Bible offer any guidance for those who struggle with this crippling disposition?
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Matthew 18:11 records that Jesus’s life-purposewas to rescue or “save” those whom He calls the “lost.” Whoarethese people Jesus refers to as the “lost”?
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Matthew 8:5-13 records a remarkable healing which Jesus performed for a most unlikely person. We are not told how this man learned about Jesus, but this non-Israelite would demonstrate greater faith than many of the Jews had up to that point in Jesus’s ministry
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The courageous death, in the second century, of a Christian named Polycarp serves as a powerful example of faith in Christ in the face of intense persecution. If Christians today faced the threat of death for being a Christian would we have this kind of courage?
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Some are arguing that it is unscriptural to look to commands, examples, and inferences as a way to determine Bible authority. Is their claim valid? Is this a modern innovation? Should disciples of Christ reject this approach to biblical interpretation?
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In the opening verses of the sixth chapter of Paul’s letter to the Romans he offers some powerful teaching on how one can become dead to sin and the role baptism plays in this death.
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One of the most problematic texts in the entire New Testament, from the standpoint of manuscript evidence, is 1 John 5:7-8a. Why is this passage disputed? Why do some translations delete it? Why is it present in some texts?
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Disappointing circumstances in life, mistreatment by others, or discouragements sometimes lead people to feel that they cannot trust God. They feel God has let them down or doesn't care about them. Let's consider eight reasons we can know that God cares about us.
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In efforts to encourage Christians and non-Christians to see the importance of the spiritual battles we face, sometimes we may fail to recognize a vital truth about this struggle. While the Bible teaches that we individually engage in battles, in the broader view the fact is that the war is already over and Satan has lost!
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The casual expressions "get real!" or "keep it real," that used to serve as informal exclamations or greetings, pose some challenging admonitions when considered from a spiritual perspective.
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The Declaration of Independence asserts that human beings possess certain "unalienable" rights. Does the Bible supports this concept of “inalienable rights”? Are these ideas we share as Americans compatible with what it means to be a Christian ?
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In our own lives and in the lives of others the way we approach religious change, even when the truth demands it, can either make change easier or put up obstacles that make it much harder. How can we leave room for change in our own attitudes and in our interaction with those around us?
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How does God define right and wrong? How does pursuing God’s standard benefit a nation? Proverbs 14:34 teaches some general truths that every Christian should recognize
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In Psalm 105, the Holy Spirit teaches us that an appreciation of God’s marvelous works in the past should lead those who serve Him to proper behavior in the present.
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In a world of ever-increasing confusion over the family, the Holy Spirit, in Colossians 3 reveals four verses that lay down God's simple plan for the home.
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Many people feel frustrated and uncertain about religion because everywhere around us there is religious confusion. Is there a way to cut through all of this confusion and discover the truth about what God expects of men and women in this life?
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The Eastern concept that all souls have a "god-force" within them is not compatible with the biblical revelation of a transcendent God. But, the Bible does teach the importance our lives can have in helping others shape concepts about the God revealed in the Bible.
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Through envy, selfishness, and partiality, the family of Isaac allowed itself to suffer decades of pain and alienation, but it didn't have to be that way. What lessons can we learn from their mistakes to help our families live in peace, love, and harmony?
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Understanding the challenges in the life of Mary Jane Bain Wilson, the author of the beloved hymn, "Hold to God's Unchanging Hand," make its lyrics especially meaningful. Scripture offers the means by which the faithful Christian can take hold of God's hand of guidance through whatever we must face in this life.
SourcesAdams, Richard W. “Jennie Bain Wilson” Hymntime.com. http://www.hymntime.com/tch/bio/w/i/l/s/o/n/j/wilson_jb.htm.
Cain, David. “Hold to God’s Unchanging Hand—Jennie Wilson.” Song Scoops. http://songscoops.blogspot.com/2015/09/hold-to-gods-unchanging-hand-jennie.html.
Hall, Jacob Henry. Biography of Gospel Song and Hymn Writers. New York: Fleming H. Revell Co. 1914, 372-375.
“Hold to God’s Unchanging Hand.” Hymnstudiesblog.wordpress.com. https://hymnstudiesblog.wordpress.com/2014/05/21/hold-to-gods-unchanging-hand/.
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Serving God is easy when things go the way we expect them to. The real test comes when God allows conditions in our lives that are not what we wanted. How will we react when God allows us to face things that are difficult or even oppressive? Will we serve Him regardless?
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Some time in the life of every soul something will happen that we didn't expect and for which we were not prepared. It will change our view of life and our place in this world. How will we handle it?
The Gospel of John puts forth and emphasizes the bold claim that Jesus of Nazareth was not merely the Messiah sent from God but was, in fact, God in the flesh.
Communication is a challenge in any relationship. Thankfully, the Bible offers guidance to help us improve how we speak, listen, and connect with others. We'll examine four biblical principles to improve communication.