The Revival Fellowship: Recent Episodes
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God Cares For You More Than You ThinkDelivered by Pastor Brad Smith 13/05/25.Gods word has the answer for all aspects of our weaknesses and fears... The following list reveals just how widespread God's care is for the human race... particularly those who are trying to walk in his ways. Scriptural References.Joh 14:27, 1Pet 5:6-7, Joh 14:18, Psa 46:1, Psa 34:17, 1Cor 14:33, Psa 32:8, Rom 8:37-39.A PDF copy of the talk notes is available to view or download at:https://www.brf.org.au/articles/articles.jsp?category=9A MP3 audio of this talk is available to listen to or download at:https://www.brf.org.au/audio/audio.jsp?category=1
Opening The Box From The Wrong EndDelivered by Pastor Brad Smith 9/05/25.The human race greatly needs simple instructions. When we open a 'do it yourself' box (our life choices), we need to open it the right way up and look for the instructions... humanity tends to do the opposite.People make the mistake of believing that God is the cause wars and many afflictions that have sprung up through human history. That is not the case. It is humanity who rejects and defies God and change all creative principles that work and bring blessing. God has given us the freedom to make our own choices, but with that freedom comes the consequences.God tells us that we have a purpose and a way to fulfil it. All that we call human history -- money, poverty, ambition, war, crime, murder, lies, prostitution, cultures, classes, empires, slavery -- is the long and terrible story of man trying to find something, other than God, which will make him happy.As failings pile up and things get worse, people lash out at one another and need someone to blame... even though they made their own choices. The need to blame everyone else, is the name of the game today. Everyone wants freedom, but nobody want to be accountable. The opposite to what God offers.A PDF copy of the talk notes is available to view or download at:https://www.brf.org.au/articles/articles.jsp?category=9A MP4 video is also available to view or download at:https://www.brf.org.au/videos/videos.jsp?category=2A YouTube link to the uploaded video.https://youtu.be/6roaYmS38GQ
Delivered By Pastor Brad Smith on 28th May 2024.Everyone of us is different and we all have differing opinions and expectations when it come to the things of the Lord. The simple answer is the same as the answer that Jesus' mother gave the servants, just before the first miracle where Jesus turned the water into wine.
Delivered By Pastor Brad Smith on 5th May 2024.In very plain terms, miracles occur when people simply do what Jesus asks them to do... this is still happening today, because nothing has changed within God's promises. Miracles come from obeying and doing the Lord's will.
Delivered By Pastor Brad Smith on 10th September 2023. Part 1. Today, we live in an age of increasing madness where just about any stupidity can be called truth... and people believe them. Lack of integrity and tested truth are obvious to many, but how many dare challenge such foolishness? God already warned the West (the descendants of Abraham) that these troubles were coming.
Delivered By Pastor Brad Smith on 5th September 2023. The best way to get the best results is to get the best advice. One of the greatest gifts of the Spirit is wisdom. It teaches us the things we could never learn without a lot of heartache and trouble. God's wisdom empowers us to know things that are often impossible to learn and to look longer term for a better life. Today we will be looking at the efficient use of wisdom and one of its greatest revelations.
Delivered By Neil Creek on 3rd September 2023. The apostle Paul alerted Timothy that evil men will wax worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived. Moving away from God's word is never a plan for success and Paul encourages Timothy and also Titus to hold fast to what they have been taught. We would do well to do the same today.
Delivered By Pastor Brad Smith on 27th August 2023. All of the world's great religions are based on historic and established beliefs. Not one of them offers any God powered evidence (observable evidence), of their claims. Not only is true salvation based on signs, most major events in God's creation and his plans for his people have been identified with signs and wonders... it is God's way.
Delivered By Pastor Brad Smith on 13th August 2023. The human race needs to know the facts about God's salvation and the positive effect that flows from it. The clarity and assurance of forgiveness needs to be the primary understanding for the church. The role of the priest has always been one of clear and precise intercession on behalf of the person they are dealing with. It was God's intention that people would confess, offer a sacrifice and leave the temple with a clear understanding of forgiveness. Too many times, the doctrinal or economic corruption of the priesthood left people uncertain about their spiritual status. We can help others avoid the same problem by having a clear understanding of how forgiveness and New Testament salvation works.
Delivered By Pastor Brad Smith on 6th August 2023. When Jesus spoke of the fields being white unto harvest, he was using a natural agricultural reality to describe a natural truth. It is rather easy to work out when wheat is ready to harvest... the tops of the grain turn a whitish colour. Jesus then related to the spiritual harvest; the saving of souls. Firstly we have to look up, or turn Godward or we won't gain an increase. It is God that pricks the hearts and prepares people to understand scriptural blessing. We share our testimony and experience and they have their chance... But it is always their choice.
Delivered By Pastor Arthur Marshman on 23rd July 2023. When God created mankind he gave them dominion over the world he created. A result of this is that each individual has dominion over their own life. Just like when we choose a car, we have options to choose from. How we live our lives is determined by the options we choose. God gives us the options of: light and darkness, good and evil, life and death. The right choices lead to eternal life.
Delivered By Pastor Brad Smith on 16th July 2023. To get a change from your circumstances, something a lot more than being aware needs to happen. Prayer, fellowship, the gifts, witnessing, all need to occur by changing... they require steps of faith and momentum. Thoughts and desires need to be activated. Most people don't realise that every prayer to God revolves around him changing something... every answered prayer changes something... And that is the key to getting blessings.
Delivered By Pastor Brad Smith on 16th July 2023. To get a change from your circumstances, something a lot more than being aware needs to happen. Prayer, fellowship, the gifts, witnessing, all need to occur by changing... they require steps of faith and momentum. Thoughts and desires need to be activated. Most people don't realise that every prayer to God revolves around him changing something... every answered prayer changes something... And that is the key to getting blessings.
Delivered By Pastor Brad Smith on 16th July 2023. To get a change from your circumstances, something a lot more than being aware needs to happen. Prayer, fellowship, the gifts, witnessing, all need to occur by changing... they require steps of faith and momentum. Thoughts and desires need to be activated. Most people don't realise that every prayer to God revolves around him changing something... every answered prayer changes something... And that is the key to getting blessings.
Delivered By Pastor Brad Smith on 16th July 2023. To get a change from your circumstances, something a lot more than being aware needs to happen. Prayer, fellowship, the gifts, witnessing, all need to occur by changing... they require steps of faith and momentum. Thoughts and desires need to be activated. Most people don't realise that every prayer to God revolves around him changing something... every answered prayer changes something... And that is the key to getting blessings.
Delivered By Pastor Brad Smith on 16th July 2023. To get a change from your circumstances, something a lot more than being aware needs to happen. Prayer, fellowship, the gifts, witnessing, all need to occur by changing... they require steps of faith and momentum. Thoughts and desires need to be activated. Most people don't realise that every prayer to God revolves around him changing something... every answered prayer changes something... And that is the key to getting blessings.
Delivered By Pastor Brad Smith on 16th July 2023. To get a change from your circumstances, something a lot more than being aware needs to happen. Prayer, fellowship, the gifts, witnessing, all need to occur by changing... they require steps of faith and momentum. Thoughts and desires need to be activated. Most people don't realise that every prayer to God revolves around him changing something... every answered prayer changes something... And that is the key to getting blessings.
Delivered By Pastor Brad Smith on 16th July 2023. To get a change from your circumstances, something a lot more than being aware needs to happen. Prayer, fellowship, the gifts, witnessing, all need to occur by changing... they require steps of faith and momentum. Thoughts and desires need to be activated. Most people don't realise that every prayer to God revolves around him changing something... every answered prayer changes something... And that is the key to getting blessings.
Delivered By Pastor Brad Smith on 16th July 2023. To get a change from your circumstances, something a lot more than being aware needs to happen. Prayer, fellowship, the gifts, witnessing, all need to occur by changing... they require steps of faith and momentum. Thoughts and desires need to be activated. Most people don't realise that every prayer to God revolves around him changing something... every answered prayer changes something... And that is the key to getting blessings.
Delivered By Pastor Brad Smith on 16th July 2023. To get a change from your circumstances, something a lot more than being aware needs to happen. Prayer, fellowship, the gifts, witnessing, all need to occur by changing... they require steps of faith and momentum. Thoughts and desires need to be activated. Most people don't realise that every prayer to God revolves around him changing something... every answered prayer changes something... And that is the key to getting blessings.
Delivered By Pastor Brad Smith on 16th July 2023. To get a change from your circumstances, something a lot more than being aware needs to happen. Prayer, fellowship, the gifts, witnessing, all need to occur by changing... they require steps of faith and momentum. Thoughts and desires need to be activated. Most people don't realise that every prayer to God revolves around him changing something... every answered prayer changes something... And that is the key to getting blessings.
Delivered By Pastor Brad Smith on 16th July 2023. To get a change from your circumstances, something a lot more than being aware needs to happen. Prayer, fellowship, the gifts, witnessing, all need to occur by changing... they require steps of faith and momentum. Thoughts and desires need to be activated. Most people don't realise that every prayer to God revolves around him changing something... every answered prayer changes something... And that is the key to getting blessings.
Delivered By Pastor Brad Smith on 16th July 2023. To get a change from your circumstances, something a lot more than being aware needs to happen. Prayer, fellowship, the gifts, witnessing, all need to occur by changing... they require steps of faith and momentum. Thoughts and desires need to be activated. Most people don't realise that every prayer to God revolves around him changing something... every answered prayer changes something... And that is the key to getting blessings.
Delivered By Pastor Brad Smith on 16th July 2023. To get a change from your circumstances, something a lot more than being aware needs to happen. Prayer, fellowship, the gifts, witnessing, all need to occur by changing... they require steps of faith and momentum. Thoughts and desires need to be activated. Most people don't realise that every prayer to God revolves around him changing something... every answered prayer changes something... And that is the key to getting blessings.
Delivered By Pastor Brad Smith on 16th July 2023. To get a change from your circumstances, something a lot more than being aware needs to happen. Prayer, fellowship, the gifts, witnessing, all need to occur by changing... they require steps of faith and momentum. Thoughts and desires need to be activated. Most people don't realise that every prayer to God revolves around him changing something... every answered prayer changes something... And that is the key to getting blessings.
Delivered By Pastor Brad Smith on 16th July 2023. To get a change from your circumstances, something a lot more than being aware needs to happen. Prayer, fellowship, the gifts, witnessing, all need to occur by changing... they require steps of faith and momentum. Thoughts and desires need to be activated. Most people don't realise that every prayer to God revolves around him changing something... every answered prayer changes something... And that is the key to getting blessings.
Delivered By Pastor Brad Smith on 16th July 2023. To get a change from your circumstances, something a lot more than being aware needs to happen. Prayer, fellowship, the gifts, witnessing, all need to occur by changing... they require steps of faith and momentum. Thoughts and desires need to be activated. Most people don't realise that every prayer to God revolves around him changing something... every answered prayer changes something... And that is the key to getting blessings.
Delivered By Pastor Brad Smith on 16th July 2023. To get a change from your circumstances, something a lot more than being aware needs to happen. Prayer, fellowship, the gifts, witnessing, all need to occur by changing... they require steps of faith and momentum. Thoughts and desires need to be activated. Most people don't realise that every prayer to God revolves around him changing something... every answered prayer changes something... And that is the key to getting blessings.
Delivered By Pastor Brad Smith on 16th July 2023. To get a change from your circumstances, something a lot more than being aware needs to happen. Prayer, fellowship, the gifts, witnessing, all need to occur by changing... they require steps of faith and momentum. Thoughts and desires need to be activated. Most people don't realise that every prayer to God revolves around him changing something... every answered prayer changes something... And that is the key to getting blessings.
Delivered By Pastor Brad Smith on 16th July 2023. To get a change from your circumstances, something a lot more than being aware needs to happen. Prayer, fellowship, the gifts, witnessing, all need to occur by changing... they require steps of faith and momentum. Thoughts and desires need to be activated. Most people don't realise that every prayer to God revolves around him changing something... every answered prayer changes something... And that is the key to getting blessings.
Delivered By Pastor Brad Smith on 16th July 2023. To get a change from your circumstances, something a lot more than being aware needs to happen. Prayer, fellowship, the gifts, witnessing, all need to occur by changing... they require steps of faith and momentum. Thoughts and desires need to be activated. Most people don't realise that every prayer to God revolves around him changing something... every answered prayer changes something... And that is the key to getting blessings.
Delivered By Pastor Brad Smith on 12th July 2023. "Trivia" comes from a roman god of the same name, who was very fond of sprouting random and irrelevant facts. He was named Trivia because he was the god of the intersections of three roads, and that's where he would waylay travellers with his useless knowledge. Three roads, hence the name tri-via, Latin for three roads. Thus, trivia (or trivial) has now become the label used against facts or truths that are considered unimportant or unwanted. 'Tell us something we don't know' is a more recent form of sarcasm used to imply that the line of thought or truth is now out of fashion and not to be discussed... it is implied that it has been exhausted or settled and nothing more can be learned from it. Cancel culture is a much blunter way of silencing people who they don't want to hear (often labelled as hate speech). There are many more ways used by people who simply are not honest enough to face or debate rational facts. God has had to deal with these human deceits from the beginning of creation.
The law of unintended consequences refers to the idea that actions or decisions can have unforeseen and unintended consequences, often in ways that are not immediately apparent. This can occur because complex systems often have multiple interconnected parts, and a change of one part of the system can have ripple effects that are difficult to predict. This is also true for those who reject a relationship with God.
Delivered By Pastor Brad Smith on 2nd July 2023. The human race is able to enjoy all of God's natural and Spiritual creation without charge. Everything we see and love, every person we know and care about, are all created by God as a free demonstration of who he is and what he stands for. He is the giver of life and gifts. Nothing God gives us is able to be earned; it is all a free gift for his creation. Salvation is the greatest gift of God for humanity. It gives us the chance to move away from our human greed and failings and give us eternal life... all free of charge.
There are many examples in the scriptures which identify differing relating to the bread from heaven. These notes will focus on one aspect which is clearly detailed and explained in the scriptures. We will continue from the theme "The Threshing Floor", where the concept of separation and purification is also established. One of the primary themes in John's prophecy in Mat 3:11 talks about a covenant change where Christ will make it possible for our worldliness and sins to be permanently cleansed from us.
The threshing floor in scripture is used as a strong metaphor as a place of separation and revelation. A place where God's harvest is prepared by separating the grain from the useless straw and husk (natural body and its failings)... by threshing (pressure) and the wind (the spirit of truth). The concept of threshing and separation are used to describe God's dealings with men and their future blessings.
Part 2. The human race is in desperate need of simple and effective directions... Ask the Lord to teach you His ways and to direct your steps according to His Word. Then read His Word often and follow the instructions.
The human race is in desperate need of simple and effective directions... Ask the Lord to teach you His ways and to direct your steps according to His Word. Then read His Word often and follow the instructions.
One of the victims of our age is truth. It seems that opinions are more important than facts. Life itself is a search for the truth. God is the author of truth and Jesus came to show us the truth. After he left he sent us the Holy Spirit to guide us in the truth.
Our conscience forms a reaction to ethical, moral and spiritual values and gives us directions for our thoughts and life actions. For Christians our conscience has had an extra element added to it by the input of the Holy Spirit. This not only gives us a far different perspective to life, it also adds a few unwanted confusions between natural and spiritual ideals. These are discussed in this topic.
The principles of New Testament salvation are already established in the judgements of the Old Testament. In the end, it is always up to the choices that we make and the path we choose.
The apostle Peter encourages us to always have an answer of the hope within us. On the day of Pentecost, Peter was able to give an answer to the Jewish people who witnessed the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. His well constructed answer caused listeners to be "pricked in their hearts" and ask for a way forward.
The following thoughts help us to shape ourselves so we can be more effective and recover more quickly from disappointments. God has called us to be a positive testimony of his blessings to humanity; this cannot be done if we misunderstand what is actually being offered to us as Spirit Filled people.
Spirit-filled Christians can see, hear and learn spiritual lessons from life. The Philistines in 1Samual chapters 4 to 6, ignored the evidence of God's power and authority in the story of Israel's defeat and loss of the Ark, and learnt nothing from it at all. Israel could have done better too.
A famous saying is that we must "pass on the mantle". Few realise that it comes from the bible story of Elisha taking over the ministry from Elijah. Even fewer realise that it was a prophecy of Jesus taking over the mantle from John the Baptist, and he then passed it on to us. As Jesus' disciples, we now carry the of his ministry. Go forth and preach.
The way of the Lord was initially prepared by John the Baptist who identified Jesus and the anointing of the spirit. After the death of Jesus, it was needful that someone would prepare the way of the church and lead them into developing the powers and uses of the Holy Spirit... Paul (Saul) did theat. This talk expands those thoughts and reveals that this is your job now.
In our modern world, there is a destructive trend called 'identity politics': where people are encouraged to bypass rational thought, make unscientific choices about who or what they think they are. This is foolish and has extended into gender, sport, business, law and order, etc. Much of our social order is breaking down, allowing confusion and crime to escalate rapidly. People may feel free to make their choices on the earth... but there are spiritual consequences. Lets have a look at God's view on all these modern points of debate.
In our modern world, there is a destructive trend called 'identity politics': where people are encouraged to bypass rational thought, make unscientific choices about who or what they think they are. This is foolish and has extended into gender, sport, business, law and order, etc. Much of our social order is breaking down, allowing confusion and crime to escalate rapidly. People may feel free to make their choices on the earth... but there are spiritual consequences. Lets have a look at God's view on all these modern points of debate.
The following is a short study on the introduction of mercy and forgiveness outside the Law. You may be surprised at the clarity of understanding that was available well before Christ's sacrifice on the cross.
Part 1 was delivered 4th May 2022. God has prepared a gospel for the weakest of the weak, right through to the strongest of the strong. God cares for us much more than we can imagine. When we are weak we can become strong, because that is when we hand over to God and let him do the work that we cannot. God can cover our sins as easy as Adam and Eve covered themselves with fig leaves. God went one better and covered them more permanently with animal skins. By forgiving us our sins, God gives us room and time to grow and learn from mistakes and weaknesses... to develop spiritually. However, a working faith is required... to believe God by acting upon his directions (to obtain salvation and live in it).
The book of James identifies the prophetic peoples of the latter times. The total economic failure of the latter times and the failure of the western nations which will lead to the fiery judgement of God.
Part 2. The temple was the only place on earth where God and the people could meet safely. Both of these meeting places were made possible by two sons of David, both kings... Solomon and Jesus. Both of these men were mentored and trained by kingmakers, before they were able to go bring about their chosen blessings.
There is a lot of talk these days about the amount of waste that we humans produce. One significant form of waste that has always been around, and that is very hard to get rid of, is worry. In the Lord, we are instructed to have faith, and not to worry (which is a form of fear). This doesn't mean we don't care about anything. The scriptures give us instruction on how to handle our concerns and how to deal with suffering.
The temple was the only place on earth where God and the people could meet safely. Both of these meeting places were made possible by two sons of David, both kings... Solomon and Jesus. Both of these men were mentored and trained by kingmakers, before they were able to go bring about their chosen blessings.
Both the saved and unsaved have a common problem... we both need God's help. The unsaved have their own problems... Firstly, they are spiritually dead. Followed by that they are all normal failings, fear and needs that all spirit filled people face.
"Nothing in all the world is more dangerous than sincere ignorance and conscientious stupidity." Martin Luther King Jr (1964). He stated this great truth in relationship to the religious and national ignorance towards the African American peoples and other minorities. Conscientious stupidity means that people are purposely choosing to live in error, or to believe untruths and misinformation, at the expense of provable reality. This has been the choice of mankind towards God for the extent of Bible history and is even more relevant today. Not only do minorities suffer as a result; the whole human race suffers under the same delusion. The reality of physical and spiritual death faces all of us, but those who hold power tend to dominate the weak rather than help them. God has been trying to awaken humanity to the false reality and the wilful ignorance that they have chosen... he offers them life in far greater abundance than they could ever imagine. This is where our role comes in as spirit filled ambassadors... we have proof.
God is the same at all times and never changes. When Jesus came on the ministry scene, he also had the same nature as God... Hebrews 13:8 Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever. As time passed, God has been able to bring in better covenants that are more effective than others. This is due to the gains and opportunities made by faithful men and women. After the death and resurrection of Christ, God had a mechanism for continually providing the bulk of his desired blessings for all humanity... the anointing of the Holy Spirit. Interestingly, God has always offered mankind the same types of blessings, but he never had a consistent and effective way of doing so. God's nature has never changed... as the following verses indicate.
Every Spirit Filled person has once pondered the icy cold prospect of death. That is why the vast majority of people have joined God's fellowship by being anointed in the Spirit. Someone sowed the seeds of life into your heart, by telling you what God's offering. There is a very good reason why death needs to be defeated... without life, there is nothing... without God there is no life... without the Holy Spirit there is no after life. That is the message we take to the world. God motivated us to acquire our salvation through the promise of eternal life... this precious knowledge needs to be shared. The seeds of life are sown by words of truth and power.
hen Jesus began His ministry, He exercised authority to cast out demons, to heal, and forgive. It was both controversial and exciting. It is important that we recognise God's authority in every aspect of our lives, and exercise the authority that He granted to us.
Time is all we have and we all have the same amount. We can invest our time, we can spend our time, or we can waste our time. This life of ours is about the time we have been gifted by God.
Once filled with the Holy Spirit we need to make the second greatest choice of our lives. We need to be just as diligent in prayer and action to stay saved as we did to get saved. Then comes our third responsibility... to restore where possible those who have failed to build themselves up and continue on with their salvation in the way that God has made available. These 3 actions lead us to understand the principle that supports them all... the Love of God.
We are continually encouraged by God to give ourselves room to receive more blessing. This simply means that we give up some more of the non productive parts of our lives and make increases in the spiritual commitments that are on offer. In other words, we put more into our walk in the Lord. The action which permits us to trust God, is called faith... and faith is what we need to apply. If we learn to identify opportunities, then we can put our faith into action, but if we never see opportunities, then faith can never be exercised. Opportunities are evident, because prayer brings them to the surface... they are exposed so attention can be focused on them. Lack of prayer probably means that there will be no recognizable opportunities and yet they exist around us every moment of the day.
The Bible tells us to be filled with the Spirit, speaking to ourselves in psalms, and hymns and spiritual songs... the following presentation examines the scriptures that are relevant to a popular chorus, I am a new creation.
Once filled with the Holy Spirit we need to make the second greatest choice of our lives. We need to be just as diligent in prayer and action to stay saved as we did to get saved. Then comes our third responsibility... to restore where possible those who have failed to build themselves up and continue on with their salvation in the way that God has made available.
Once filled with the Holy Spirit we need to make the second greatest choice of our lives. We need to be just as diligent in prayer and action to stay saved as we did to get saved. This is always our choice and our choice alone. We have already used bible examples to disprove many myths and false doctrines about salvation... we also rejoice because we are shown how to use God's power, wisdom and obedience to remain in our saved state.
Here is a brief summary of the purpose and content of the books of the New Testament. The Gospel books... The historical, prophetic and spiritual record of Jesus, the son of God... his words, his deeds and promises... death and resurrection. The book of Acts... The only detailed accounts of the founding of the church and of full scriptural salvation. The first history and missionary journeys of those who preached the gospel of Jesus Christ, how the spirit was recognised by miracles signs and wonders, and the opposition they faced. The Epistles... Letters and some prophecies to the churches/leaders in various stages of development. They deal with all life issues and how to maintain faith and sound doctrine through the power of God... for everyone.
How old was Timothy when this scripture was written? 1Timothy 4:12 Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in faith, in purity. It is falsely assumed that Timothy was in his late teens or early twenties when these verses were written, but a quick check of bible chronology, and the established dates of the writings of the following letters, give us a far better grasp of Timothies age through the scriptures.
Most often when we think of forgiveness, we tend to think of ourselves and what we need to improve, but this is not the best way to go. Once we are forgiven and walking in the spirit, the greater gains will come from, forgiving others and building better relationships. Once freed from sin, we should have far much more energy to direct towards the weak and unsaved... this is our daily opportunity.
Is the finality of judgement about punishing or eternal punishment..... One of the common mistakes made when trying to interpret the bible comes from overlooking the most basic rule of study... comparing the scriptures with themselves. The concept of eternal punishing is strangely missing from every prominent Old Testament reference. It is very hard to imagine why God would not warn Adam and Eve and numerous other key players in their times right up to Christ, that death would include eternal torment filled with unrelenting pain and horror for all of time... with no relief whatsoever. There is a huge difference between death (which is often quick and uneventful) compared with eternal torturous pain. Why would God hide, or disguise such a hideous result for thousands of years, if such a terrible punishment were literally true.
God has prepared a gospel for the weakest of the weak, right through to the strongest of the strong. God cares for us much more than we can imagine. When we are weak we can become strong, because that is when we hand over to God and let him do the work that we cannot. God can cover our sins as easy as Adam and Eve covered themselves with fig leaves. God went one better and covered them more permanently with animal skins. By forgiving us our sins, God gives us room and time to grow and learn from mistakes and weaknesses... to develop spiritually. However, a working faith is required... to believe God by acting upon his directions (to obtain salvation and live in it).
God has a single gift for all mankind, and he sent his son to earth to deliver it to us. This Gift is the Holy Spirit, receiving it is an experience that is variously described as; a baptism, an outpouring, an infilling, or being born of the Spirit. On receiving this gift, we open it to find signs and wonders following: speaking in tongues, healing, miracles, wisdom, knowledge, understanding, faith, discernment, and prophecy. As we walk with the Spirit of God, our lives become full of the fruits of the Spirit: Love, Joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. If you would like to receive this gift, read these bible references.
Since Adams first act of disobedience, man has struggled with sin and the separation from God that it caused. Under the law, we owed a debt to sin paid only through blood. Jesus paid that blood price for us, freeing us to approach the father unimpeded. We are a new creation, a brand new man. We live a new life no longer burdened by the weight of sin, placing our burdens at the saviour's feet.
Pas Bill Allen talks about the unfulfilled prophecies prior to, leading to, the coming of Jesus Christ.
A brief summary of the books in the New Testament. The Gospel books... The historical and spiritual identification of Jesus, the son of God, his words, deeds and promises... death and resurrection. The books of Acts... The only detailed accounts of scriptural salvation and the founding of the church. The first history and missionary journeys of those who preached the gospel of Jesus Christ, how the spirit was recognised by signs and wonders, and the opposition/persecution they faced. The Epistles... Letters and some prophecies to churches/leaders in various stages of development. They deal with all life issues, how to maintain faith and sound doctrine through the power of God, for every true believer.
What does it mean to walk with Jesus Christ (to walk in the Spirit)? To walk with Jesus is the most important thing that anyone can possibly do... this is where the Lord will take you... to walk with the word... to walk with God... to walk with the Holy Spirit... to walk in a path that you have never been down before... to walk in power and wonderment...
Please note that the PDF notes for this talk were uploaded as "The Culture Wars". Culture can be defined as all the ways of life including arts, beliefs and institutions of a population, that are passed down from generation to generation... these cultures are adjusted and changed as needed. God's culture is built on spiritual principles and powers which are revealed once we are filled with the Holy Spirit. This requires us to move away from natural thinking and exercise spiritual principles. This will vary according to the culture we live under.
To know God is to know the power of God. To understand God is to understand how to use his power. The only way we come face to face with God, is by receiving the anointing power Of the Holy Spirit. Once we meet God... we need to learn what he wants from us and how to use the power that we have received. This is achieved through various facets of learning. Reading, instruction, revelation and commitment all play a vital role in the learning process. As we progress, our knowledge needs to be turned into effective action and service.
God has always been able to turn weak people into great people, and failed people into overcomers. He also made a great nation out of weak people, who he made great.
A simple bible study of the revealed order of details surrounding the return of the Lord. See also the talk "In Our Lifetime" delivered on 4th February 2022.
There is one thing common to all of us on the planet... we are born and we die. This is inescapable. However, there is something else that is totally overlooked by the great majority... all will have to answer to God (who is their creator), for the things they have done with their lives.
Part 2 of When Truth Doesn't Matter. The world has very quickly moved to the point where the truth is not the driving force behind most decisions. Tribal loyalty and desired opinions are more important than facts, because people prefer their own reality and build upon their own 'truths'. Throughout the western world, reality and provable science have given way to the 'science' of personal beliefs. This 'science' is also selectively applied... eg., I might choose to believe that I am female, even though I am genetically, physically and visibly male, yet governing bodies will pressure everyone to agree with my choice. However, it I identify as fully vaccinated without evidence, I risk being rejected and isolated from society. These corruptions are prophesied, because they lead to the denial and corruption of everything that relates to God's creation, purposes and values. A clear pattern emerges... Humanities main goal is more about appeasing very fragile and deluded egos, than it is about improving or sustaining human life.
The world has very quickly moved to the point where the truth is not the driving force behind most decisions. Tribal loyalty and desired opinions are more important than facts, because people prefer their own reality and build upon their own 'truths'. Throughout the western world, reality and provable science have given way to the 'science' of personal beliefs. This 'science' is also selectively applied... eg., I might choose to believe that I am female, even though I am genetically, physically and visibly male, yet governing bodies will pressure everyone to agree with my choice. However, it I identify as fully vaccinated without evidence, I risk being rejected and isolated from society. These corruptions are prophesied, because they lead to the denial and corruption of everything that relates to God's creation, purposes and values. A clear pattern emerges... Humanities main goal is more about appeasing very fragile and deluded egos, than it is about improving or sustaining human life.
The sequel of two earlier talks by Pastor Brad Smith, Led Of The Spirit 211121, and, Washing Of Feet 211123. Being led of the spirit is not just knowing what is right or wrong, it is practicing what is right. To serve God (to be led by the spirit) is to serve others .
The same notes as used for Led By The Spirit..The Holy Spirit is the energy or power of God in action, just as our deeds (as opposed to our thoughts assets) display our nature to those around us. For those who are anointed/filled with the Spirit, it's God's intention that we utilize the same power for the salvation of others, so God's purposes can be established in us. Thus, we become the children of God, because our spiritual DNA is the same as God's... we are his offspring rather than the world's and we are motivated to act accordingly.
The Holy Spirit is the energy or power of God in action, just as our deeds (as opposed to our thoughts assets) display our nature to those around us. For those who are anointed/filled with the Spirit, it's God's intention that we utilize the same power for the salvation of others, so God's purposes can be established in us. Thus, we become the children of God, because our spiritual DNA is the same as God's... we are his offspring rather than the world's and we are motivated to act accordingly.
In the popular Charles Dickens story 'A Christmas Carol', the mise Ebeneezer Scrooge worked his long suffering employee Bob Cratchit to breaking point (this is where we get the insulting term 'scrooge' from... meaning someone who has plenty, but is not generous or caring to those who don't). He provided only minimal heating, expected Cratchit to work on holidays and constantly displayed an air of criticism and suspicion. No one would want to work for a boss like Scrooge, who represented the worst, yet common traits of humanity.
By the act of confusing spiritual priorities and values, it becomes clear why people build unfulfilled lives based on powerless spiritual precepts. Gods Spirit is still bound by the accuracy of his word... we cannot add nor subtract from those things which the Lord has laid down. If we start letting small things slip by, or add little things that please us that are not in his word... then they can accumulate to the point where destruction is assured!! Safety margins are an act of wisdom when it comes to conforming to God's directions. By limiting natural appreciations, stimulations and actions, we make more room for the Spirit to move... thus we end up with more accurate results. Mistakes are going to cost a large number of Gods saints their salvation. These things are written so true rest and refreshing can be attained.
There are promises which surround us in everyday life, from lifetime commitments to the daily expectations towards and from other people. However, the expected outcome and fulfilment of promises made are rarely guaranteed in the fluctuating and inconsistent society in which we live, as rules, laws, and personal conflicts run interference with the decisions and commitments we seek to maintain. Only the promises of God are yay and amen, being assured to every person who walks according to His will and purpose.
We choose how to spend our time. God counsels us to spend some of that time on higher purposes...setting our affections and renewing our minds in Him.
The apostle Paul, when writing in the first chapter of his epistle to the Romans, commented on how man had become focused worshipping the creation and not God... the creator of all life. Today, many in society are following the same pattern of focusing on the issues on how mankind manages the environment and fail to acknowledge God the creator. As the apostle Paul wrote "worshipping the creation and not the creator".
If you have a victim mentality, you will see your entire life through a perspective that things constantly happen 'to' you. Victimisation is thus a combination of seeing most things in life as negative, beyond your control, and as something you should be given sympathy for experiencing, because you deserve 'better'. At it's heart, the victim mentality is a way to avoid taking any responsibility for yourself or your life. By believing you have no power then you don't have to take action... and it is not your fault. The victim mentality has gone mainstream in the West. It's through the ideology commonly known as 'identity politics', which neatly divides society into victims and oppressors. It's an ideology that tells various minorities that they're hapless victims of an oppressive system: whether of Power, Gender, Race, Age, Wealth, Bodily shape and size, Personal beliefs. In reality everyone is a victim and an oppressor at the same time.
The following thoughts and activity are presented in the interests of being able to follow and trust God... even if we are or a bit confused or don't understand all that is happening. We are not asked to stress or strain our understanding... rather we are asked to be obedient. Therein is our victory and therein God is given room to work. We don't know how God does what he does, but we know that he does it... that is what we stand on.
Part 2. The human race now has the ability to overcome their original fall. Jesus Christ has opened the door to the tree of life once again. Through repentance, water baptism and the anointing of the Holy Spirit, we are returned to the eternal future which was ours from the beginning. However, Satan has not changed, he is still out to deceive and destroy. Satan teaches Christians first to doubt, and then to deny. We need to manage our sins as God says, not by natural logic. It's in our interest to learn what God says and get the balance right.
The human race now has the ability to overcome their original fall. Jesus Christ has opened the door to the tree of life once again. Through repentance, water baptism and the anointing of the Holy Spirit, we are returned to the eternal future which was ours from the beginning. However, Satan has not changed, he is still out to deceive and destroy. Satan teaches Christians first to doubt, and then to deny. We need to manage our sins as God says, not by natural logic. It's in our interest to learn what God says and get the balance right.
Two thousand years after Christ, the Holy Spirit is being poured out like never before, but the power is not properly understood. The way the Spirit is received and used is often compromised through ignorance or pride. Humans have a great need to improve or modify the effective and powerful ways of the spirit. It is Gods will that we be aware of these failings and to protect people from this type of compromise. The simple but powerful promises in the bible are more than enough for all Christians to overcome this world... but they need to know these truths and it is the duty of those who understand to promote it for the Lord.
The New Testament began with the outpouring of the Holy Spirit... a new and living way that is able to deal with all the sins and failings of all the people (all backed up with signs).
When Adam and Eve disobeyed God in the Garden of Eden they lost their innocence and became aware of many things. They understood both their physical and spiritual nakedness and that they could not appear before God that way. God clothed them in the garden. Scripture makes it clear that the spiritual covering we need to be right before God is righteousness. We cannot clothe ourselves in righteousness no matter how hard we try.. only God can provide the robes of righteousness and the garments of salvation. He does this willingly. He paid for the material with His Son's death, and He will clothe those who come to Him in repentance, faith and humility.
Jesus’s crucifixion was part of God’s plan. This world celebrates the birth of Jesus in the main more than the death of Jesus. We celebrate the death of Jesus because without it we would not have the Spirit to know and understand God and his plan. Our faith is based on Christ crucified. All things are happening as part of God’s plan and he has us under his care. God’s plan is revealed to us via the Spirit.
Firstly, the Holy Spirit is an intelligent, personal force... the effectual 'conscience' of God. The bible proves this point by describing the loving and caring manner of how the Spirit acts for those who faithfully obey God. So we see that the Holy Spirit is much more than a source of power alone. It is the life and breath behind all creation and life... and continues to do so.
The concept of a person who is perfectly suited to another in temperament and purpose being called a 'soul mate' or 'one true love', originated from the Greek comedy playwright, Aristophanes around 450BC. It is interesting to note that the bible reveals a broader idea on the concept of a 'soul mate' and that originated 4000BC. The bible adds a new twist to this saying revealing a much bigger plan than what many imagine.
To those that are in right standing with God; the first death at the end of natural life is a temporary sleep before being resurrected into a new spiritual body. Those who have died are not even aware of death; the dead do not know they are dead; their cycle of awareness is over. God explains that the natural life of the unsaved as being little different than being dead. We are encouraged to make wise choices before our time runs out (not just leaving it to the last moment). No one knows how long they have to live. For those of us who have the Holy Spirit, we are encouraged to keep our perspective and be mindful for the lives of others.
Our salvation has been sealed by the Holy Spirit. It is really a down payment of greater things to come. We see through the glass darkly, we see a limited view of the future. God knows more about us than we do!! God has unlimited resources (riches) to help us.
There is an intriguing scripture in the gospel of John that alludes to our works surpassing that of Christ's. John 14:12. It is interesting for two reasons... the first is the statement that we will have the potential to do the works of Christ (miracles)... and the second, which is the most amazing, reveals that we have the potential to do even greater works then Christ.... how can that be? What is something that Jesus did not do, or could not do while he was on the earth as opposed to what we can do while he is in heaven? The best way to solve this question is to look at the changes that occurred after he left. We do not need to go too far into the book of Acts to find the answer.
The sign of the prophet Jonah is only one of approximately 350 prophecies fulfilled by Jesus Christ that were recorded up to 4000 years before he was born. Prophecies act as signs and proof of the credibility of God and of his ability to save people from certain death. The salvation message that Jesus made possible, is also built upon prophetic signs, miracles, and wonders. The sign of speaking in tongues is the confirmation of being anointed by the Spirit. The sign of the prophet Jonah is a precursor of the salvation message that Jesus provided and described.
When it comes to the things of God, most people have no understanding of what they are dealing with. God is trying to save people from permanent extinction (death), but most are blindly adhering to lifestyles that are more appealing to their human nature. God is not demanding a life of permanent denial and abstinence of all pleasures. He is trying to save people from certain death. Our natural perspective is short term and certainly devoid of any spiritual awareness. Spiritually speaking, the human is brain dead, they are devoid of any potential and they are powerlessly living out their time; spiritually crippled... awaiting permanent death. On the other hand, God is offering us the power to be saved.
The church is filled with volunteers from all walks of life, all having differing skills and abilities. All of us are filled with the Holy Spirit with the same evidence of speaking in tongues, with all spiritual gifts available.
A summary by Pastor Brad of our recent Prayer and Fast on Unity. Themed from Psalm 133 v1.
Much has been said and made of the Thief on the cross. Many people have taken comfort from the story of the thief to whom Jesus makes the famous quote, "Verily I say onto Thee, Today shalt thou be with me in paradise." Unfortunately for the people who quote or rely on this scripture, the meaning of this verse is not what they believe. Before we discuss this scripture, we need to understand why people have placed so much significance on these words. Many today want to take the easy way out (with little responsibility or commitment), or they are looking for Godly hope and they find it very comforting to think, that when they are on death's doorstep, they can simply say sorry and all will be well. They are wrong! The other concept which comes forward is the appreciation that when you die, you go straight into heaven to be with the Lord. That also is error. Let us have a closer look at the words of Jesus and see what He is truly saying.
The Bible describes a series of events which define the return of the Lord. One such line of prophecy is called "birth pangs", being likened to the onset of human birth. This is a very interesting metaphor, because many of the events of human labour are easy to identify, and by their nature, continue to intensify and are irreversible.
Many Christians feel obliged to prioritize their service to Christ by telling him through prayers, music, public speaking and testimony; how much they love him. This is often promoted and perceived as one of the greatest and most rewarding deeds of the Christian life. Sadly, this is wrong, and ill conceived. Many would be surprised how few times Christ or God mentioned their love for each other. It is not that it wasn't there, it is just that they preferred to display their love for each other through actions and deeds... rather than words. Jesus lived by faith and wants us to imitate his love towards others through deeds and actions, not just words.
This talk was previously delivered by Pastor Brad in Brisbane on 7th March. This talk is slightly more condensed (precise). All sciences have tools or documented comparisons so any device or formula can be calibrated against a proven measure or standard. The reality of bible salvation is based on a series of promises and actions which God has promised through His Holy Spirit, of which He confirms. God is well aware of human failure and has thus calibrated His word and blessings with signs and evidence outside of intellectual and emotional factors alone. Like the Prime Meridian (the 0 degree line of longitude) used for all charting and travelling on the earth's surface, the church needs a fixed starting point of reference, or natural wisdom will corrupt spiritual truths.
All sciences have tools or documented comparisons so any device or formula can be calibrated against a proven measure or standard. The reality of bible salvation is based on a series of promises and actions which God has promised through His Holy Spirit, of which He confirms. God is well aware of human failure and has thus calibrated His word and blessings with signs and evidence outside of intellectual and emotional factors alone. Like the Prime Meridian (the 0 degree line of longitude) used for all charting and travelling on the earth's surface, the church needs a fixed starting point of reference, or natural wisdom will corrupt spiritual truths.
Part 2. The fatal human trait of blaming others for the things that go wrong in our lives, will always leave us at the mercy of others. Blaming others is not empowering; it traps us in failure rather that building our character. The solution is short term and often painful... we need to take responsibility for our life and the outcome of our choices, especially when they go wrong! The Bible offers a perfect solution and with lots of help along the way.
The fatal human trait of blaming others for the things that go wrong in our lives, will always leave us at the mercy of others. Blaming others is not empowering; it traps us in failure rather that building our character. The solution is short term and often painful... we need to take responsibility for our life and the outcome of our choices, especially when they go wrong! The Bible offers a perfect solution and with lots of help along the way.
Prayer and Fasting. Fasting is a form of self discipline... exercising personal humility Prayer is a form of self discipline... exercising spiritual humility
On 14th June 2020 Pas Brad gave a talk titled Why Do The Heathen Rage. This is part 2 of that topic. The PDF notes are posted in the "resource / articles" area of the brf.org.au website. The natural position of 'non or anti-Christians' is to rage against God's laws and principles, despite them giving humanity the best opportunities for a fair and sustainable life. The more they rage, the worse life becomes for the free world, with one failure leading to another. Sadly, yet predictably: the human race never learns from its mistakes. Pride and ignorance always lead to the failures that the past generations also suffered.
Part 2. There are two main identities that God reveals about himself when dealing with us on a personal level. The first identity he takes on is "Father" and the second main identity he takes on is "Friend". God takes on these identities so he can be better visualised and easily understood. These identities make it a lot simpler to know how to approach him and what to build our expectations upon. The salvation message of repentance, water baptism and the receiving (anointing) of the Holy Spirit gives us new status, or a fresh start.
There are two main identities that God reveals about himself when dealing with us on a personal level. The first identity he takes on is "Father" and the second main identity he takes on is "Friend". God takes on these identities so he can be better visualised and easily understood. These identities make it a lot simpler to know how to approach him and what to build our expectations upon. The salvation message of repentance, water baptism and the receiving (anointing) of the Holy Spirit gives us new status, or a fresh start.
The world is full of fake news and fake gospels. We can't always fact check the news, but we can always fact check the salvation gospel and its content: by comparing the Bible with the works God is doing with his people.
The response by Jesus to the questions asked by His disciples regarding the signs of the end times.
Part 2. It should not be surprising that the church of God is structured on the same principles as the family unit. Almost all the benefits and challenges of a family are also part of church life. The Bible offers some wonderful insight.
On the 6th September 2020 Pas Brad Smith gave a talk titled Turning Failure Into Great Comfort. The notes are available from the resources tab of our website. This talk is a more detailed summary of the benefits gained by John The Baptist for the Spiritfilled saints of this time.
It should not be suprising that the church of God is structured on the same principles as the family unit. Almost all the benefits and challenges of a family are also part of church life. The Bible offers some wonderful insight.
On the 6th September 2020 Pas Brad Smith gave a talk titled Turning Failure Into Great Comfort. The notes are available from the resources tab of our website. This talk is a more detailed summary of the benefits gained by Phineas for the Spiritfilled saints of this time.
God has a special gift for mankind, His Holy Spirit. It is the most precious present anyone can receive. Listen to the blessings that follow on from this amazing expression of God's love.
On the 6th September 2020 Pas Brad Smith gave a talk titled Turning Failure Into Great Comfort. The notes are available from the resources tab of our website. This talk is a more detailed summary of the benefits gained by David for the Spiritfilled saints of this time.
The differences between King Saul and King David can teach us a lot about ourselves. Having good intentions and actually performing them require different approaches. Thus, the salvation and overcoming message in the bible, teaches us how to make better spiritual choices, because it shows us how to think, then how to act.
A presentation on how the King James Bible came about, and why a slew of "new" bibles are contrary to Gods Word.
On the 6th September 2020 Pas Brad Smith gave a talk titled Turning Failure Into Great Comfort. The notes are available from the resources tab of our website. This talk is a more detailed summary of the benefits gained by Abraham for the Spiritfilled saints of this time.
The scriptures instruct us that we should know and understand God. Whilst there are many aspects of God's nature that are made clear in the Word, this talk focuses on righteousness, justice and steadfast merciful love. These attributes are described together a number of times in the Old Testament, and correlate with many instructions in the New Testament. There are significant implications for us here and now, whether or not we are already Spirit filled.
Many people get confused over the method and principles by which God saves his people from their human shortcomings and sins. We are not subject to a balance sheet of good verses evil every week to see if we are passing or failing. Just as our clothing covers our nakedness, the indwelling Holy Spirit, covers our spiritual on an ongoing manner. Thus, Jesus not only protects us from the powers of sin and temptation, but from the penalty of such weakness... every minute of the day.
The world is on the brink of a disaster that will eliminate almost all forms of human and animal life. This is the second time that the bible has recorded such far reaching disasters... the first time was the great flood and the next and soon to come calamity relates to the fiery death for almost all forms of life. God had Noah build an ark to save those who believed the prophecy of the coming flood and Jesus Christ is building another ark... called the church; which will also deliver those who prepare for the coming fire. Both destructive judgements are the result of human rebellion against the principles of God.
Our memory is a very unreliable keeper of the truth. Due to a variety of reasons we forget things... we forget facts and truths. When something is forgotten, then those memories are unable to be shared with others and that particular truth can be lost forever. Mankind has consistently forgotten the things that God has done for them; hence many are unaware of His promises. Just as the passing of time assists us to forget historical facts (allowing it to be rewritten); so to has mans potential relationship with God been distorted. God keeps us in touch with the truth through the continuous working of the Holy Spirit; always prompting us to offer the truth of Eternal Life to others. God's memory doesn't dim or change with the passing of time. Now that we are filled with His Spirit, we should never forget who we are, or what we stand for.
This talk is part 2 of a series, part 1 being titled Chasing The Wrong Dream (18th October 2020). It is suggested that you listen to that talk first. This talk was delivered in Brisbane on 1st November 2020. It is further noted that Pastor Brad also delivered this talk to the Fresno Fellowship on 29th October 2020. There are slight differences in the talks.
Jesus worked miracles amongst the needy and the sick, fed the hungry and offered salvation to the sinners and the lost. How did those who were supposed to serve the same people react? The priests had him tortured and murdered on false charges, not caring one bit for the pain and suffering He was solving. The priesthood was corrupt and spiritually sick: that is why God brought it to an end and a new way was born.
This talk is part 2 of a series, part 1 being titled Chasing The Wrong Dream (18th October 2020). It is suggested that you listen to that talk first. This talk was delivered to the Fresno Fellowship on 29th October 2020. It is further noted that Pastor Brad also delivered this talk to the Brisbane Fellowship on 1st November 2020. There are slight differences in the talks.
Jesus worked miracles amongst the needy and the sick, fed the hungry and offered salvation to the sinners and the lost. How did those who were supposed to serve the same people react? The priests had him tortured and murdered on false charges, not caring one bit for the pain and suffering He was solving. The priesthood was corrupt and spiritually sick: that is why God brought it to an end and a new way was born.
The whole world is losing its way very quickly. The people of the nations are struggling to find significance in their beliefs, their values and their reason for existing. The continuous undermining of God given ethics and human respect, is now turning everything on its head.
The book of Malachi represents the last word of God to the nation of Israel for about 400 years.
Noahs Ark, A story that is still relevant today. The Bible says the last days will be like Noahs. Consequently, like Noah, we must live a righteous life and follow God's instructions if we wish to be saved.
The first thing that we need to observe is that God chose tongues as a sign and also designed their spiritual usage. God has given us plenty of details and directions, to work out everything we need to know about tongues. Good doctrine needs to be established by the sound use of scripture... not by feelings or personal beliefs.
Each of us lives our lives according to our values. It can be that the way we behave is not in accordance with the values we think we have. God is specific about what our values should be as born again Christians. It starts with our love of God and our love for our neighbour.
Sadly, most people don't care about evidence; all they want is someone to agree with their world view. Believing in God is not the same as obeying God... sticking to beliefs that are doctrinally weak, or denying scriptural signs, will fail those seeking eternal life. God has always offered scriptural support and backed it up with evidence. The choices we make in faith, determine the opportunities God can work with.
Anxiety - We Need to trust; We do not need to fear. Whilst the Bible does not use the word anxiety, it does have a lot to say about fear. Generally this sits in one of two categories, a reverential fear (respect) (by analogy to be in awe of), or alarm or fright (terror). This talk covers some references of types of fear or anxiety that we may feel, discusses patience as the process to remove anxiety (or fear), cross references scriptures that tell us not to do things in our own strength and works, through a couple of psalms of David to help paint mental picture that God has all things in hand. He is our refuge and we have nothing to fear.
The Bible is full of faithful people who despite moments of weakness and failure, were able to provide great blessings for God's people. Some have provided far more blessing than they thought possible, perhaps even more than we yet realise. The gained comforts from the following acts of faith are far greater than even they could have imagined. All these blessings have come out of tribulation, despair or weakness. Consider it a great joy to fall into tribulation, because all the great blessings have come out of such trials..
Many marathon runners face a difficult problem in the latter stages of the race... that is when they hit the wall. This refers to depleting their glycogen (glucose, stored in the liver and muscles)and the feelings of fatigue and negativity that come with it. It is the most readily available fuel source to burn when exercising, so our bodies prefer it. When we run low on glycogen, our muscles hurt and our brain wants to shut down activity as a preservation method... this may lead to negative thinking, forgetting the big picture. Most people come to the Lord for the same reason... the easy answers stop coming. Also it is not uncommon for people who serve God to hit the wall from time to time. God excels when the easy way is not available.
People responding poorly to facts that they do not want to hear is a rapidly escalating problem... both in this world and sadly within God's church. There is a certain reality about unwelcome words... The truths revealed in God's word trigger the way we think and act. Scriptural truths can be seen pleasantly or offensively, then choices are made by each individual.
The Bible concept of healing is far more than physical and mental restoration. There are numerous encompassing scriptures that reveal just how big the offered blessings are. Our primary problem is that man is mortal, and God is immortal. Through Jesus Christ, God has provided unlimited and far-reaching healing opportunities for the human race.
The Bible concept of healing is far more than physical and mental restoration. There are numerous encompassing scriptures that reveal just how big the offered blessings are. Our primary problem is that man is mortal, and God is immortal. Through Jesus Christ, God has provided unlimited and far-reaching healing opportunities for the human race.
We find a story in Greek mythology of how the impenetrable city of Troy was defeated by a much smaller and weaker Trojan army. Troy had huge walls around the city that couldn't be breached, so a clever plan of getting into the city was devised. A multi story wooden horse was built and rolled to the front gates of Troy as a gift to Troy's superiority. The wooden monument had soldiers hidden inside and once accepted into the city. Under the cover of darkness the hidden soldiers opened the city gates and Troy was defeated. Thus, malware (computer viruses) are often called "trojans" for the same reason. They are disguised as legitimate software and can be used by cyber thieves and hackers to gain access to your computer, your data and your assets. Likewise, Christians should be fully aware that this type of attack against their faith is the most common ploy that Satan uses against them.... once our faith is weakened, unbelief and failure can soon follow.
The parable of the prodigal son came about because of the criticisms of the Pharisees and the Scribes who rebuked Jesus for always being in the company of sinners. The Pharisees believed that God wanted the church to keep away from its defaulters. Furthermore, they added many extra burdens on those who wanted to be restored and who wanted to serve God. Jesus responded with these 3 parables.
Humility, from the spiritual perspective. What it is. Why it is important. What it is not. How do you get it.
Sarah was Abrahams wife and was born on a timeline halfway between Adam and Jesus Christ. She had been incapable of having children and was 90 years old when God healed her. She still had to wait another 25 years after being specifically told she would be healed. To make matters more challenging, not only was she barren, but she had entered menopause... two major impossibilities at a natural level. Like all of us, she had to address the needs of the here and now, but at the same time was facing two seemingly impossible promises. This is how her story unfolds and how her ongoing faith gave them one of the most amazing testimonies in history.
The natural position of ‘non or anti-Christians’ is to rage against God’s laws and principles, despite them giving humanity the best opportunities for a fair and sustainable life. The more they rage, the worse life becomes for the free world, with one failure leading to another. Sadly, yet predictably; the human race never learns from its mistakes. Pride and ignorance always lead to the failures that past generations also suffered.
Give God something to work with and he will give you something to work with. Everyone can have a wonderful life with the Lord if they stop long enough to give him something to work with. Moses is perhaps one of the greatest examples of God’s ability to turn an average person into a remarkable powerhouse. The turning point came when Moses saw a burning bush and stopped to hear the message (just like us when we were witnessed to)
The gift of the Holy Spirit, and it’s work in our lives, is a very large topic. It is fundamental to finding and maintaining our relationship with God. Today we will look at just a few aspects of the Holy Spirit in our lives. In particular, what we can learn from comparing and contrasting the “fruits” and “gifts” of the Spirit, and how we apply that here and now.
An elderly woman in France had the surprise of a lifetime late in 2019, when she discovered the old wooden panel painting, that sat above the kitchen stove was worth more than $7.7US million. She was selling her house and was going to send it to the tip with other ‘junk’ except for an auctioneer suspecting it might have some value. Having been valued at $7.7US million it actually sold at auction for $26.6US million. We may be equally surprised to find that God has also set a value upon us; a value that is far beyond what we could ever dream of. Like the auction above, once we are restored (saved), our value is multiplied many times more to God, much more than we could ever believe. Our eyes and minds alone can’t see God’s values.
We are continually pressured to ‘believe the science’, even though many scientists disagree with each other. Quite often, the term ‘science’ is used when a political or religious outcome is desired. It would be more convincing to see the evidence than respond to an appeal to authority, which is a false and unproven argument.
Loneliness (doubt, fear), is a perception we can all feel when our confidence drops below our spiritual reality. God has already offered a solution to this well known problem.
God has identified himself as much more than the powerful creator of the universe and the life in it. He has expressed an attitude towards the human race, that is common to humans themselves. He demonstrates love and care, concern and assistance; like any caring father or mother would do. His interest and regard for us is much more than that of any parent, because his capacity is far greater than ours. We cannot care for ourselves with the same certainty and authority that God offers. If the worst comes to the worst, God is capable of raising the dead. That is something we cannot do for our families. Yet, God now offers us the power to raise the dead.
‘When the wheels fall off’ originated from overloading, or abusing a work vehicle to the extent that it breaks down and is no longer useable. The west was built on the principles contained within the ten commandments, despite the weaknesses of humanity (a certain level of weakness and failure was already factored in to the system). However, as they have been further weakened, we have been overloaded and failures are appearing everywhere. It’s the abuses of the principles that leads to failure, not the principles themselves. The bible reveals many of humanities worst failures thousands of years before they have finally come about.
Part 2. Once we receive the Holy Spirit, everything changes. As a part of God's kingdom we have spiritual responsibilities. We have a job that requires a completely different mindset, and the first question we must ask is... What does God want me to do: Not how do I fit God into my list of priorities.
Part 7 of 7. A study of Ephesians Ch 4 verses 11 to 16. This recording studies verse 16.
The Bible contains many stories of people who needed to go into lockdown to escape a variety of threats coming upon the earth. On all of these occasions, preparations and warnings were made to all people; offering everyone a way of escape. There was always a great need for God’s people to listen carefully to his survival guidelines. Some obvious examples were Noah and the ark, the Passover when the tenth plague destroyed the first born, also the modern spirit filled church is a vessel of separation for escaping spiritual death.
God calls Moses to reveal His power to Pharaoh in order to set His people free to serve God. The ten plagues inflicted on Egypt do not affect the Isrealites.
Part 6 of 7. A study of Ephesians Ch 4 verses 11 to 16. This recording studies verse 15.
Part 5 of 7. A study of Ephesians Ch 4 verses 11 to 16. This recording studies verse 14.
Once we receive the Holy Spirit, everything changes. As a part of God's kingdom we have spiritual responsibilities. We have a job that requires a completely different mindset, and the first question we must ask is... What does God want me to do: Not how do I fit God into my list of priorities.
In this world, obtaining something new can be exciting and fun, but the excitement doesn't last and we can end up chasing the next new thing. Solomon reflected that there is "nothing new under the sun". The truth is that God has done something new in us. Not only that, but it is new every single day. The excitement need never fade.
Part 4 of 7. A study of Ephesians Ch 4 verses 11 to 16. This recording studies verse 13.
This talk provides an overview of a number of topics relating to physical healing. Topics are: 1. God's will to heal, 2. Jesus Compassion, 3. Facing the future with faith, not fear, 4. Our choices, 5. Giving glory to God, 6. Worshipping God in humility.
Sometimes everything we see indicates that it is just impossible to for us obtain God's promise. It's just too late and too hard. God has given us some examples in the scriptures to demonstrate that this is NEVER the case. God always has things under control, no matter what circumstances look like.
Part 2 of 7. A study of Ephesians Ch 4 verses 11 to 16. This recording studies verse 12.
This is the 2nd part of this series. Part 1 considering the natural laws and part 2 considering the spiritual laws As with natural laws, spiritual laws are replicable, and if broken there will be consequences, albeit not necessarily immediately.
Part 1 of 7. A study of Ephesians Ch 4 verses 11 to 16. This recording studies verse 11.
When we naturally obey a law, be it criminal, civil, scientific or moral,we can be unaware of the effects of that law. But there are consequences of breaking the law. Being ignorant does not alter the outcome. Spiritual laws are usually ignored by the greater majority because there is no immediate or visible consequence of breaking them.
There is great value in praying for others beside self and family. God is able to bless people who would not normally receive a blessing.
Christmas is recognised as a time to celebrate the birth of Jesus, with His ongoing purpose to bring peace and life to mankind.
Despite the abundance of modern technology and knowledge, people are struggling with the issues of life and lack true purpose and contentment.
People can be very vocal about their 'rights'. However, many are ignorant about certain spiritual rights, that God can actually enforce.
You can make a real difference in the ongoing battle for souls, salvation and doctrine.
We can achieve a lot in our lifetime. Raise families, build businesses, achieve goals. Many achievements end with this world. When we have the Spirit, we have the opportunity to do things here and now that will have impact in the eternities. Achievements that will last forever. We thus have an important choice as to where we direct our time and attention.
The Bible talks about things which are spiritual absolutes. Understanding these can change your viewpoint for the better.
Historically, religiously and politcally, when it comes to Christianity, there are many instances of bestrayal.
The true church brings life to the hearer... the enemies of the church risk God given life, with death. The two main enemies of the church are titled, 'the son of perdition' and 'antichrist': both come from within
How should Christians conduct themselves in a society that is rapidly departing from God's ways.
It's important to hold on to fundamental truths instead of appealing to 'itching ears'.
Fashions may come and go, but God offers to clothe people spiritually and provide a covering for their sins.
The final regret - facing the Lord's judgement after choosing not to walk in God's ways.
Five questions are answered in the Bible, which cover the most important aspects of life and Christianity
Jesus Christ clearly identified what the purpose of the New Testament Church is, and how it should operate.
There are many statements that bring comfort to humanity, but often they are untrue and can distract from the real truth of the Bible.
A deeper dive into the life of David and the parallels between him and modern Christians who act in faith.
A collection of scriptures around the word 'up', which combine to form a good approach to life.
Three of the most important words ever spoken, yet often people fail to comprehend their true significance.
Imagine your life if you continuously applied the concept of 'asking, seeking and knocking'.
Many Christians fall victim to the cares and pleasure of this world, instead of bearing spiritual fruit.
Just as there are physical laws, there are also spiritual laws that should be well understood.
Mankind can come up with solutions to all kinds of problems, but Jesus Christ is necesssary for salvation.
What is the evidence that can convince us of the God of the Bible, and whether our beliefs are valid?
You now have the power to take charge of your life. God will take care of your failings as you focus on spiritual growth.
The power and blessing of God is available in your life daily, yet distractions can be blinding.
Just having information about God and Bible principles is often not enough to move into a position of blessing and power.
It's not about a complicated mode of thinking. It's about believing the promises of God and acting on them.
Looking at the big picture can give clarity that is lost in the day-to-day. Troubling times are ahead, but there is a way out.
It's up to you how you respond to God's offer of forgiveness of sin, and the promise of eternal life.
Human-kind seem to be incapable of learning lessons of the past. Only God is capable of altering human nature.
Of the many solutions to life offered by this world, God seems to be continuously left out. [Poor audio quality]
An enquiring mind is a good thing, but when it comes to God there are some things that are out of reach of human comprehension, and need to be relied on by faith.
Humans are primarily spiritual beings. Understanding this allows people to make better decisions about priorities.
The certainty of some future events is guaranteed. How then, should you act in the present?
A continuation of the theme about western society's degrade away from Bible principles.
Jesus has the ability to deal with everyone, regardless of their personality-type. An examination of raising Lazarus from the dead.
An exposition on 1 Corinthians 14, around what the Bible says about speaking in tongues.
A closer inspection of the Lord's prayer reveals some interesting insights about praying.
The Bible clearly prophesises that there will be a future calamity involving heat and fire. Mankind needs to focus on eternal things, rather than the transient things of this world.
The parable of the Sower and the Seed is still relevant to Christians who have walked in God's ways for many years.
Repentance is not necessarily a one-off event, but rather an ongoing attitude towards God and towards other people.
The natural way of thinking often does not apply to situations where spiritual principles are involved.
Make sure the knowledge of Jesus Christ's return isn't forgotten. Don't let personal dificulties hinder us on our sevice to God.
This is the other side of the Mercies of David concept which requires servitude to God’s people and the unsaved as a result of having our sins and failings managed by God.
A continuation of the Sure Mercies of David topic. What does it mean to have a heart like David?
God is able to turn a negative situation into something good. The restoration of joy allows Christians to focus on their calling and is part of the covenant promise.
Sometimes we spend so much effort on choices that are unimportant. The choice of eternal life needs to be given priority.
People focus on all kinds of natural difficulties, but escaping physical death is often overlooked.
God knows how to make vessels which protect and sustain life (planet earth, Noah's ark). Your physical body is not going to last, so what solution is God offering? [Bad audio quality]
People fear Christianity because they fear it is too difficult, or fear they are unworthy.
Jesus died for all. How are you now going to live your life? Seek God for the right opportunites to serve.
Modern thinking and theories can often deceive people. The truth is discovered in the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Sometimes it is necessary to have courage and take action to preserve the truth of the gospel.
Basing your beliefs on feelings isn't enough to prove those beliefs are viable long-term. Christianity offers viable proof.
Trying to get God to prove He is working with you by making demands like "If you're there God, move the blinds", is unwise. God has already established mechanisms to confirm He is working with you.
A few different takes on possibilities regarding the timing of the return of Christ and the subsequent millenial reign.
Despite equal spiritual status in the eyes of God between men and women, men have specific reponsiblities that they must not neglect [Poor audio quality, cuts out prematurely]
The return of Jesus Christ is going to happen one day. Don't undermine the significance of this event by pushing it out of your consciousness.
God has gone to great lengths to reveal Himself to the human race, yet few people choose to respond to his calling.
You can't afford to be distracted by natural things, when the eternal state of your life and those around you could be at stake.
Just like electricity can be used to expand mankind's abilities, the Holy Spirit can be used to expand mankind's spiritual abilities.
Filtering out the truth from the flood of available information can be difficult. Going back to the Bible is always the safest way of understand spiritual matters
God's fiery judgement is a certainty. Putting it in perspective can provide Christians with a sobering wake-up call.
God's measurements and value system is far different than how humans might measure themselves or each other.
Natural perception (sight, hearing) can only detect a small range of the available spectrum. The Holy Spirit offers a spiritual capacity to discern spiritual matters that might be overlooked naturally.
Freedom isn't free. Often battles are fought without everybody being aware of them, including spiritual battles.
Technological improvements in society may not be the most effective way to improve your life.
As humans, it's sometimes hard to see everything from God's point of view. Still, God has given some insight to those who have responded to the gospel, and it is their responsibility to help enlighten those who are in darkness.
An analogy between the heat-removing properties of a refrigerator and the sin-removing properties of the Holy Spirit.
Preaching isn't just getting people baptised. It's also about redeeming the lost, and helping well-established Christians to overcome.
Tribulation may not be enjoyable, but offers a good opportunity for spiritual development.