Food For Your Soul: Recent Episodes
Start your day with a 10-minute breakfast for your soul.
Excerpts from in-depth, expository sermons with a single application point to carry with you through the day.
What did Jesus really mean in the Olivet Discourse? Was He predicting the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 A.D. or describing His Second Coming? … Or both? In this study of Mark 13:1–4, we examine one of the most debated passages in Scripture. You'll learn why faithful Bible-believing Christians have disagreed over this chapter for centuries, compare preterism, futurism, and the dual-fulfillment view, and discover how the rest of the New Testament helps interpret Jesus' words. Rather than defending a theological system, this message follows the biblical text wherever it leads, showing how prophecy is meant not to divide believers, but to encourage one another as we await Christ's return (1 Thessalonians 4:18). If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
Did Jesus intend the widow's offering to be an example of sacrificial giving—or have we misunderstood one of the Bible's most famous stories? We examine the account commonly known as The Widow's Mite in its full biblical context. Rather than isolating these four verses, we'll trace Mark's argument through Jesus' final days in Jerusalem and ask whether Jesus was praising the widow's generosity—or exposing a corrupt religious system that "devoured widows' houses." This verse-by-verse sermon explores: Why the traditional interpretation raises difficult questions The immediate context of Mark 12 and Jesus' condemnation of the Temple leaders Whether the widow is presented as an example to imitate If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
The story is as old as mankind—chasing something that sounds like pure freedom… only to end up more stuck than before. In 2 Peter 2:19, false teachers dangle the word "freedom" like bait—promising the liberty to do what you want. But what lies on the other side of that freedom is a whole new bondage, worse than ever before. What is "real" freedom? Our culture says freedom means throwing off every restraint. The Bible says something radically different. In this message from 2 Peter 2:19, we'll see why every kind of freedom comes with a master, why the promise of "doing whatever you want" leads to slavery, and why the only path to genuine freedom is becoming a willing servant of God. False teachers haven't stopped making empty promises. They still redefine biblical words, appeal to our desires, and offer a counterfeit freedom that sounds attractive but ultimately enslaves. Peter exposes their strategy and shows us how to recognize the difference between God's promise of freedom and the world's imitation. In this sermon, you'll discover: Why there is no such thing as absolute freedom The difference between freedom from sin and freedom to sin How false teachers use biblical language to deceive What Jesus meant when he said, "Everyone who sins is a slave to sin" Why every freedom comes with a new master How God's restrictions actually liberate us What true freedom looks like according to Scripture How to pursue the kind of freedom that leads to becoming more like Christ Whether you're struggling with temptation, wondering what Christian liberty really means, or trying to discern false teaching, this passage provides timeless wisdom for following Christ
In Mark 12:35–40, Jesus does two remarkable things. First, He affirms that David wrote Psalm 110 and that David spoke by the Holy Spirit, revealing Jesus' view of the inspiration and authority of Scripture—including the superscriptions. Second, He exposes five subtle forms of pride that can infect even the best of us. In this sermon, you'll discover why Jesus' teaching on Psalm 110 matters for the reliability of the Bible, the doctrine of inspiration, and the identity of the Messiah. You'll also examine Jesus' sobering warning against seeking earthly greatness through appearance, status, privilege, and religious performance. Jesus' warning is just as relevant today as it was in the temple courts. If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
What did Jesus mean when He told the scribe, "You are not far from the kingdom of God" (Mark 12:34)? Was that a compliment—or a warning? In this verse-by-verse exposition of Mark 12:32–34, we explore one of the most intriguing encounters in Jesus' final week before the cross. A Jewish scribe agrees with Jesus about the greatest commandment, and Jesus responds with words He never speaks to anyone else: "You are not far from the kingdom of God." But what does it mean to be close to God's kingdom without actually entering it? If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
What is the greatest thing a human being could ever do? Of all God's commandments, which one matters most? In Mark 12:28–31, a scribe asks Jesus one of the most important questions in all of Scripture: "Which commandment is the most important?" Jesus' answer reveals the greatest priority in the Christian life—not ministry success, not religious activity, not even loving your neighbor, but loving God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength. But what role do emotions play in obeying that command? Many get this wrong. We examine Jesus' teaching on the Greatest Commandment, why love for God comes before every other duty, and how the first commandment gives meaning to every other command in Scripture. If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
There are scholars with PhDs in theology, New Testament Greek, Biblical Studies—trained in apologetics and defending the faith, who have been deceived and have gone astray. There are people who have lived incredibly godly lives, made huge sacrifices, served on the mission field or as pastors, and who have been led astray and now deny the faith. If there are people smarter than me, more well-versed than me, godlier than me, more self-controlled than me, and more zealous for the Lord than me who have been led astray, how can I be assured it won't happen to me? There is some false teacher out there somewhere who could outsmart you. Peter sees it, and he rips off their masks and exposes their strategies so you and I can avoid the shipwreck of faith that has overtaken so many before us. This text may not be the most heartwarming passage in the Bible, and nobody puts it on a coffee mug or bookmark. But it could very well save your life! After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
Can the resurrection really be proven from the Old Testament? In Mark 12, a group of religious experts comes to Jesus with a clever question about the resurrection, and his answer exposes two kinds of ignorance that can quietly derail anyone's walk with God. You'll discover how to deepen your confidence in God's power and become less vulnerable to spiritual deception. Why did Jesus rebuke the Sadducees for not knowing the Scriptures or the power of God? In this verse-by-verse expository Bible study of Mark 12:18–27, we explore one of Jesus' most profound confrontations during His final week before the cross. If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
What does God mean when he says, "I will be YOUR God?" The answer might be one of the overlooked keys to enjoying nearness to the Lord. In Mark 12:18-27, Jesus faces one of the most difficult attacks against the doctrine of resurrection. The Sadducees, who denied life after death, present a hypothetical scenario intended to make belief in the resurrection seem absurd. But Jesus responds with a powerful rebuke that exposes both their misunderstanding of Scripture and their failure to grasp the power of God. We explore Jesus' remarkable defense of the resurrection, His teaching about life in the age to come, and the significance of God's declaration: "I am the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob." If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
Why did ordinary fishermen drop everything and follow a carpenter they had just met? What kind of person can command demons, disease, and human hearts with a word? In Mark 1, you'll encounter the breathtaking authority of Jesus—and seeing his greatness more clearly can deepen your trust, strengthen your surrender, and inspire you to follow him with greater confidence and joy. In this expository sermon from Mark 1:14-34, we explore the awesome authority of Jesus Christ. Mark introduces Jesus not as merely a great teacher or miracle worker, but as the promised King and Son of God who possesses absolute authority over people's lives, their future, evil spirits, disease, and the kingdom of God itself. Why did fishermen leave their nets immediately to follow Jesus? Why were people more astonished by His teaching than by His miracles? How could Jesus command demons and sickness with just a word? This passage reveals a Savior unlike anyone who has ever lived. ------------ After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
We all oppose corrupt politicians. But have you ever considered what it means to be corruption-free as a voter? What is your responsibility before God in the ballot box? Most believers recognize corruption when politicians use government power for personal gain. But what happens when ordinary citizens use their vote to do the same thing? In this message, we explore a challenging biblical principle: every act of government is backed by coercive authority, and every voter in a democratic republic wields a small portion of that power. Drawing from Scripture's teaching on the God-ordained role of government, we'll examine the moral implications of taxation, wealth redistribution, government benefits, and voting. If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
In the jaws of a trap, Jesus utters 10 simple words that changed the world. In Mark 12:13-17, the Pharisees and Herodians unite in an attempt to force Jesus into an impossible choice: oppose Caesar and face execution, or support Roman taxation and lose the support of the people. Instead, Jesus responds with ten simple words that transformed the world's understanding of government, authority, and allegiance. And it was impossible to argue against. How should Christians relate to government? What rights does God give secular governments? What demands are they free to make, and where are the limits? And what belongs only to God? How do believers faithfully live in two kingdoms without divided loyalty? If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
What does it mean to be a person of integrity? How does the fear of man lead to hypocrisy, dishonesty, cowardice, and favoritism? And what does Jesus teach us by His example? In this message, we contrast the man-centered fear that controlled Israel's religious leaders with the God-centered courage, impartiality, faithfulness, and integrity of Christ. Against the dark backdrop of human sin, the glory of Jesus shines even brighter. Topics covered in this sermon: • Fear of man vs. fear of God • The root causes of hypocrisy • Why flattery is spiritually dangerous • The integrity of Jesus Christ • Courage under pressure • Biblical impartiality • Faithfulness to the way of God • Mark 12 explained verse by verse If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
How would you define "desire" without relying on a synonym like "wanting"? Think about the role desire plays in your spiritual life. In this passage, Peter shows that desires can shipwreck your whole life. But they are also the key to closeness with God. We'll explore how it all works and how to make corrections when desires go wrong. In 2 Peter 2:10-14, the apostle Peter exposes the spiritual downfall of false teachers and reveals a truth that affects every Christian: your desires determine the direction of your life. Desire is the engine that drives every decision you make, and when those desires become disordered, they can lead to greed, bondage, spiritual ruin, and ultimately God's judgment. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
In this parable, a vineyard owner responds to shocking rebellion with patience that's, frankly, hard to believe. Everyone in the parable behaves in ways that sound unrealistic—even ridiculous. Why does Jesus tell such a farfetched story? The answer will help you in times when you're afraid God is losing patience with you. Discover what Jesus was revealing about the human heart—and how understanding God's astonishing patience can deepen your repentance, strengthen your hope, and draw you closer to Him. This expositional sermon explores the astonishing patience of God, the insanity of human rebellion, and the terrifying danger of refusing to listen when God speaks. If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
Whenever God speaks, you can listen in a way that increases your sensitivity to his voice or in a way that deadens your ability to hear God. Some spiritual ignorance is innocent. But very often, ignorance is due to unwillingness to accept what God has revealed. Agnosticism is not an intellectually respectable position. More often than not, it's simply willful ignorance. In this expository sermon from Mark 11:27–33, we examine one of the most fascinating confrontations in the Gospels. After cleansing the temple, Jesus is challenged by the chief priests, scribes, and elders: "By what authority are you doing these things?" But with a single counter-question about John the Baptist, Jesus exposes their hypocrisy.If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
When temptation strikes, we instinctively weigh the consequences. But what if God told you, "For this sin, there would be no consequences. I'm simply telling you no." How much weight would the sheer fact of God's authority carry in your heart? This paints a disturbing picture of false teachers who thought so little of God's authority that they boldly rushed in where angels literally fear to tread. God's authority is one of the most neglected attributes in the Christian life. This passage will awaken your heart to the majesty of a God who has every right to command. In this sermon from 2 Peter 2, we explore one of the Bible's most sobering portraits of rebellion against God's authority. If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
The cursing of the fig tree stands out as Jesus' only miracle of destruction. Some reject this miracle as being beneath the Jesus we know. Did he really get so annoyed about not getting a fig that he would destroy the tree—even though he knew it wasn't the season for figs? Or is there a deeper lesson? This Bible teaching explores: • Why Jesus cursed the fig tree • Whether this was a "bad miracle" • The fig tree as a prophetic object lesson • The connection between fruitlessness and divine judgment • What this miracle reveals about faith and hypocrisy • The curse on creation and the age-of-the-earth debate • How Jesus used physical illustrations to communicate spiritual truth If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
In Mark 11, Jesus tells his disciples they can hurl mountains into the sea, and in the very same week prays, "Not my will, but yours." What is the balance between approaching the throne with bold, impassioned prayers and surrendering to God's will above our own? Was Jesus promising Christians the power to move literal mountains? Why didn't the apostles ever do it? And why does Jesus connect mountain-moving faith with forgiveness? Jesus' teaching in this passage shows the answers rise from understanding one of God's more underappreciated attributes—his eagerness to answer your prayers. He loves saying, "yes" to his children! If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
What did Jesus really accomplish when He cursed the fig tree and overturned the tables in the Temple? In this in-depth expository teaching from Mark 11:11–24, we uncover a powerful and often misunderstood moment in Jesus' final days. Far from being random acts, these events reveal a decisive turning point in redemptive history—the judgment of the old Temple system and the introduction of something entirely new. Jesus inspects the Temple and finds it lacking the very fruit it was designed to produce: prayer—especially prayer from the nations. Using the fig tree as a living parable, He demonstrates that outward religious activity without true spiritual fruit leads to judgment. But the message doesn't end there. If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
If your life were recorded in Scripture—your actions, thoughts, motives, words—would you be considered one of the righteous? Are you righteous? What's the standard? Lot is nobody's favorite character in Scripture. Yet Peter holds him up as an example of righteousness. Why? The answer cuts to the heart of what it means to walk with God. If you enjoy the message, please consider forwarding it to someone who might find it edifying. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
Why would Jesus kill a tree—on purpose? Why was he crying during his triumphal entry? Why did he cleanse a temple that was about to be destroyed? And what do those events teach us about how to have a productive, fruitful life that brings pleasure to God? In Mark 11, we see how these seemingly strange actions come together to show us how to fulfill God's wonderful plan for his people. If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
People often miss the way Jesus staged his triumphal entry—and the meaning of the event Jesus was re-enacting from a thousand years earlier. In this verse-by-verse, expository sermon on Mark 11:1–10, we uncover the significance of each element of the Triumphal Entry and how it reveals Jesus as the promised Messiah, the true King, and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy. When the craziness of this world has you worried or upset, this message will help restore your joy. This message explores the deeper meaning behind the colt, the crowd's response, and the prophetic connection to King David. Discover how Jesus presents Himself as the "greater David"—a righteous, powerful, and gentle King who brings salvation. If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
Why did Jesus tell the crowd to call Bartimaeus instead of doing it himself? There is a gold mine in the simple words the crowd spoke: "Take courage. On Your Feet. He's Calling you." If you've ever struggled to find motivation to share your faith—or wondered how God's calling and human initiative fit together—this message will challenge and equip you. In This Sermon, You'll Discover: -Why Jesus commands us to call others to Him -A deeper motivation for evangelism beyond compassion -The 3-part message every believer is called to share -The privilege of proclaiming Christ without hesitation -How to think biblically about free grace and human effort If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
How do you increase your spiritual insight and find blind spots? Jesus answers that question in the account of blind Bartimaeus. In this exposition of Gospel of Mark 10:47–52, we follow the desperate cry of Bartimaeus and discover what it really takes to receive sight from Jesus Christ. And why the needier you are, the bolder you can be in prayer. Spiritual insight doesn't come to the casual or comfortable—it comes to those who seek it with urgency, humility, and bold faith. Bartimaeus refused to be silenced, cried out all the louder, and seized his moment when Jesus passed by. His story exposes our lack of urgency and invites us into a deeper, more desperate pursuit of God. If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
Bartimaeus is the only person Jesus healed who is named on the pages of Scripture. Why is it so important that we know his name and his father's name? The answer will turn your world upside-down (or more accurately, right-side up)! As Jesus leaves Jericho on His way to the cross, a desperate cry breaks through the noise: "Son of David, have mercy on me!" While others try to silence him, Bartimaeus persists—and what follows is far more than a miracle. This passage reveals the true nature of spiritual insight, the upside-down reality of biblical greatness, and the kind of faith that stops Jesus in His tracks. Why is Bartimaeus named? What does his title "Son of Honor" mean? If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
Why do even the smallest injustices bother us so much? We long for justice—but do we still want it when it's perfect? And final? Peter takes us back in time and shows us a kind of justice that reaches higher, wider, and deeper than we ever imagined. And it forces us to wrestle with what we really want. Expository Sermon by Dr. D Richard Ferguson My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: / @darrellferguson • Instagram: / darrell.r.ferguson • Facebook: / dr.drichardferguson More sermons available at www.TreasuringGod.com Install our free Food For Your Soul app for hundreds of free sermons. For the most recent content, subscribe to the Food For Your Soul podcast
Jesus summed up the entire gospel in a single word: ransom. When Jesus said the reason He came was to give His life as a ransom for many, what did he mean? What is a ransom? And who are the many? In this message from Mark 10:45, we explore this word, ransom, that has shaped centuries of theological discussion. In this in-depth, expository sermon, we walk verse-by-verse through one of the most important statements in Scripture. Why does the Gospel of Mark wait until chapter 10 to reveal the reason for Jesus' death? This teaching explores the heart of the gospel, including the meaning of "ransom" in both Old and New Testament context . If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
What does true greatness look like in the kingdom of God? In Mark 10:41–45, Jesus confronts a power struggle among His disciples and reveals a radical truth: greatness is found in servanthood, not control. When James and John sought positions of honor, the other disciples became indignant—exposing a deeper problem in every human heart: the desire for human greatness and power over others. Jesus responds with one of the most countercultural teachings in Scripture. While worldly leaders "lord it over" people, Jesus says His followers must take the opposite path—becoming servants and even slaves of all. We explore how greatness, suffering, and servanthood are inseparably connected in the Christian life. If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
What do Genesis 6, the Nephilim, artificial intelligence, genetic engineering, and Neuralink have in common? In this sermon from 2 Peter 2:4, we explore one of the most mysterious passages in the Bible—the angels who sinned and were imprisoned by God. The New Testament connects this event to the time before the Flood, when the "sons of God" and the "daughters of men" produced the Nephilim (Genesis 6). But this message doesn't just explain ancient history. It asks a pressing modern question: Are we repeating the same kind of corruption of humanity today? With rapid advances in AI, brain-computer interfaces, designer genetics, and human-animal hybrids, the boundaries of what it means to be human are being challenged like never before. Even tech leaders have warned about the dangers—one famously describing artificial intelligence as "summoning the demon." *** My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
If Jesus asked you, "What do you want me to do for you?"—what would you say? Two men answered that question… and revealed more about their hearts than they realized. In this episode, you'll discover: The Cost of Discipleship: What must you forsake to follow Christ? The Profit of Discipleship: The unimaginable rewards Jesus promises. The Church Family: the Body of Christ If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
You have a God-given desire for greatness. But be careful. Our natural definition of greatness can turn that godly desire into a deadly evil. In this in-depth, verse-by-verse exposition of Mark 10:35–40, we examine one of the most revealing moments in the Gospel of Mark: James and John boldly asking Jesus for the top two positions in His glory. Their request wasn't entirely misguided. It was full of faith. They believed in Christ's coming kingdom. They wanted greatness in that kingdom. But they were still defining greatness the earthly way—by comparison, rank, and superiority. In This Expository Sermon, You'll Discover why the disciples repeatedly missed Jesus' teaching on true greatness If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
Peter warns that false teachers will "secretly introduce heresies of destruction," even denying the Master who bought them. They don't appear hostile. They don't announce their agenda. They arrive with polished delivery, relational warmth, and what Peter calls "plastic words." This message exposes the 3 M's of False Teachers: Their Method – They win trust first, then subtly twist Scripture. Their Motive – Greed. They exploit people financially and spiritually. Their Message – A distorted version of grace that removes Christ's authority as Master. You'll learn: What it truly means to "deny the Master who bought them" The difference between doctrinal error and destructive heresy How false teachers redefine grace Why biblical grace never lowers God's standards How to evaluate preaching by how Scripture is handled What it means that Jesus purchased His people with His blood False teaching rarely looks like rebellion. It looks like freedom. It sounds compassionate. It feels affirming. But when grace is separated from obedience, it becomes deadly. If you've ever asked: How do I identify a false teacher? What is Lordship salvation? Does grace mean obedience is optional? Can someone deny Christ without saying it directly? How can I develop biblical discernment? This sermon will equip you to recognize deception and stand firmly on the authority of Scripture.
Plan A: Why the Cross Was Never Optional What does it mean to follow Jesus ... to the cross? In this verse-by-verse exposition of Mark 10:32–34, we walk with Jesus on the road to Jerusalem as He predicts His betrayal, humiliation, suffering, death, and resurrection with stunning clarity. Nothing is vague. Nothing is uncertain. Every detail unfolds according to divine design. In the Gospel of Mark, Jesus repeatedly says the Son of Man "must" suffer. That word changes everything. This message explores: Why Jesus' suffering was necessary—not optional How the cross was always Plan A, not Plan B What it means that Christ was "delivered" according to God's sovereignty If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
Welcome to Food for Your Soul – a podcast for those who love in-depth Bible study and expository preaching. In this episode, we explore Mark 10:28-31 and Jesus' radical teaching on the cost of discipleship and the rewards that come with following Him. What does it really mean to "leave everything" to follow Jesus? And what exactly does He promise in return? Jesus doesn't sugarcoat the cost of discipleship, but He offers a 100-fold reward—an eternal family, spiritual blessings, and more. In this episode, you'll discover: The Cost of Discipleship: What must you forsake to follow Christ? The Profit of Discipleship: The unimaginable rewards Jesus promises. The Church Family: the Body of Christ If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
Why would God devote so much of Scripture to condemning false teachers—and why is His anger toward them so intense? In this message from 2 Peter 2, we explore a surprising truth: God's fury is meant to comfort His people, not terrify them. Far from being an embarrassment or an overreaction, God's judgment on false teachers reveals just how precious His Word is—and how fiercely He protects those who belong to Him. When teachers lie about God, the damage is devastating: to the church, to the world, and ultimately to themselves. That's why Scripture speaks with such clarity and severity. If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
In this message from Mark 10:17–27, we continue our in-depth exposition of Jesus and the Rich Young Ruler, focusing on evangelism, law and gospel, and why Jesus allowed what most would consider the hottest prospect in the New Testament to walk away. This is Part 4 of the Rich Young Ruler series. Jesus encounters a man who was a sincere seeker—moral, sincere, eager, respectful, Bible-literate, and desperate for eternal life. And he sought it from Jesus. From a human perspective, this is the kind of man many churches today would celebrate, affirm, and quickly usher into membership. Yet Jesus does something shocking. Instead of "closing the deal," Jesus presses the law deeper. If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
Can money destroy your faith? In this exposition of Mark 10:17–27, we'll hear Jesus deliver some of the most sobering warnings in all of Scripture—warnings that directly confront wealth, greed, pride, and eternal destiny in surprising ways. In Part 3 of the Rich Young Ruler, Jesus explains why money is not neutral, why wealth increases spiritual pride, and why riches can quietly pull a heart away from God. This passage is not about a rare outlier—it is a warning meant for us. By the standards of Scripture and human history, we are rich, and that makes Jesus' words especially urgent. Greed is one of the most devastating sins in the Bible—and yet one of the least confessed. If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
Can God's law bring life—or only condemnation? In this message we return to the story of the Rich Young Ruler (Mark 10:17–27) to explore the role of God's law in salvation, faith, and Christian obedience. Many Christians struggle to reconcile biblical passages that say "keep the commandments and you will live" with the New Testament teaching that no one is justified by the law. Did Jesus really mean that obedience leads to eternal life? Why does God demand perfection from imperfect people? And how can the law both condemn sinners and lead believers into life? If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
Why did Jesus "lose" his hottest prospect? It seems like a sure thing when someone says, "I want to follow Jesus—just tell me how to be saved." Why did Jesus spoil it by telling him to keep the law—and then demand everything he owned? And if the man got to choose what he desired most, why did he go away sad? In this in-depth expository sermon on Mark 10:17–27 (with parallels in Matthew 19:16–30 and Luke 18:18–30), we walk verse-by-verse through one of the most sobering encounters in the Gospels. Jesus lovingly applies two spiritual tests that will reveal whether you have true, saving faith. If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
Is the Kingdom of God really exclusive? In this in-depth expository sermon on Mark 10:13–16, Jesus reveals the surprising entrance requirements for the most prestigious club in existence—and they are the exact opposite of what most people expect. In this message, we explore why Jesus became visibly angry when His disciples tried to keep children away, what it truly means to receive the kingdom like a child, and why humility—not strength, status, or self-reliance—is the defining mark of every true citizen of God's kingdom. If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
When Jesus was questioned about divorce, His answer went deeper than legal debates—He pointed back to creation itself. Quoting Genesis, Jesus reminded His listeners that God "made them male and female" and designed marriage to be a union where two distinct sexes come together as one flesh. What does the creation of male and female have to do with divorce? And what are the implications for homosexuality and transgenderism? In this message from Mark 10:6–9, we explore why Jesus grounded His teaching on marriage in God's original design, and how the differences between men and women are not flaws to be erased, but gifts meant to be joined together. God created male and female with real, meaningful distinctions. If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
What is our answer to critics who say the Old Testament only copied other literature? Or that the New Testament was written hundreds of years after the fact so the teachings of the original Apostles is lost? Do you ever wonder how we can be sure the Bible is truly God's Word? In this powerful message, we explore how the Bible came into existence, addressing tough questions and myths about Scripture, including: Did the Old Testament copy other ancient literature? Were the New Testament writings lost or corrupted over centuries? How does God inspire Scripture while using human authors? What does "verbal inspiration" and "inerrancy" really mean? If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
What should you do when the experts say the Bible says one thing, but to you, it seems to say something else? Should you go with the experts? Or rely on your own judgment? If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
When Jesus was asked a question about whether divorce for any reason was permitted in Scripture, he brought up two passages that don't even mention divorce. And his reason for doing that teaches volumes on how we are to interpret Scripture—as well as providing deep insight into the nature and wonder of marriage. In this verse-by-verse expository sermon from Mark 10:1–12, Jesus is tested by the Pharisees on the subject of divorce—but instead of debating loopholes, He takes them back to Genesis. By pointing to God's original design for male and female, Jesus reveals the purpose of marriage, the seriousness of divorce, and the divine nature of the marital bond. If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
Many Christians read the Bible every day and still drift away. Peter explains why—and how to make sure that never happens to you. 🔥 Atheists, agnostics, and anti-theists unite against one thing above all. It's not God's existence—it's the idea of a God who SPEAKS. Dive deep into 2 Peter 1:19-21 in this expository sermon that explores why Peter described divine inspiration of Scripture as being "above all." You will learn why paying attention to God's Word is not enough. Peter explains exactly HOW we must pay attention to it. If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
There is a tractor beam pulling you through life that determines where you will end up. But you have control over what that tractor beam is. Peter reveals the one that will pull you into the wisest and best decisions in life. Discover how a flash of light on an ancient hill can rewrite your future. On the Mount of Transfiguration. Peter, James, and John saw Jesus shine like the sun and flash like lightning—not as a reflection, but as the source of divine light. This wasn't just a miracle. It was a preview of the Second Coming, when every element melts, the Antichrist shatters under His splendor, and the universe is flooded with eternal, uncreated glory. If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
Hell What does Jesus mean when He says "Everyone will be salted with fire" and "Have salt in yourselves"? In this expository message on Mark 9:49-50, we unpack one of the most difficult and controversial passages in the Gospels. Discover why suffering is the fire that makes Christians "salty," how losing your saltiness is a real and terrifying danger, and why Jesus ends with the command to "be at peace with each other." Key Topics: "Salted with fire" – Is this about hell, suffering, or Old Testament sacrifice? Why suffering refines and sanctifies believers (and why it's good to be "salty") If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-star rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
Far more Americans believe in karma than believe in hell. People think hell is too harsh, but the doctrine of hell is actually more merciful than karma. Jesus taught the exact opposite of our culture's assumptions—and He did it in shocking, unforgettable language. In Mark 9:42–50, Jesus gives two of the most urgent warnings in Scripture: 1️⃣ Don't push people toward hell 2️⃣ Don't push yourself toward hell Why would Jesus give such intense warnings in a private teaching session with His disciples—and not the crowds? What dangers was He seeing in their lives? And why does Jesus connect eternal punishment with everyday things like influence, attitudes, habits, and desires? If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
"In Jesus' Name"—Christians say the phrase all the time—at the end of prayers, in spiritual conversations, even in spiritual warfare. But is it a magical formula? A Christian catchphrase? Or something far more profound? Why did Jesus say "in My name" FOUR times in just five verses and never again in the entire Gospel of Mark? In this sermon Mark 9:33–41, we explore Jesus' own teaching on His Name and discover a truth that dismantles pride, redefines greatness, accrues heavenly reward, and transforms ordinary acts of love into powerful acts of worship. This passage is NOT a random collection of sayings—it's a masterpiece that exposes our addiction to earthly greatness and shows the only cure: exalting the Name of Christ If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-star rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
We read of the disciples arguing who was the greatest, and we see it as immature and crass. But all of us have far more of that in us than we realize. This sermon will help you discover areas of self-exaltation and show the path toward true greatness. Discover: • Why Jesus didn't rebuke the desire for greatness — He redirected it • The hidden pride that makes us spiritually deaf when God calls us to suffer or deny ourselves • How arguments, envy, comparison, and even "I knew that" moments expose our quest for earthly glory • The staggering cultural background: why a little child was the ultimate picture of lowliness in the 1st century • Jesus' upside-down formula: "If anyone would be first, he must be last of all If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
What should you do when people with power over you are hurting you? That can be the worst fates in life. But when it happens, you can have hope because of what this passage teaches "The Son of Man is going to be delivered into the hands of men. They will kill him, and after three days he will rise." (Mark 9:31) Why couldn't the disciples understand that simple statement? It's the same reason we often miss God's voice when he calls us to do something that will be painful or lowly. In this Bible study, you'll uncover: Why being "handed over to men" is worse than famine, plague, or war (2 Samuel 24:14) How human hatred amplifies suffering more than physical pain The hidden disease in the disciples' heart If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
Discover the raw truth behind one of the most intense exorcisms in the Gospels. In Mark 9:14-29, Jesus confronts a vicious demon tormenting a boy from infancy—throwing him into fire and water to kill him. The disciples fail. The father wavers. Jesus acts with sovereign authority. But what really angered Jesus wasn't the father's doubt—it was the disciples' self-reliant unbelief. 🔥 In this sermon, you'll uncover: How Satan hates you with murderous intent (and how to resist his lies) The chilling evil Mark refuses to let you ignore Why Jesus didn't pray to cast out "this kind" of demon The resurrection language hidden in the boy's healing How judging Jesus by His followers' failures destroys faith If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
"This kind comes out only by prayer" explained. Discover why the disciples could cast out other demons easily but not "this kind"—and how their self-reliance mirrors our own deadly "I got this" attitude today. Jesus didn't rebuke the disciples for lacking power—He grieved their lack of prayer and faith when their authority hit its limit. "This kind" (genos) refers to a superior class of demon beyond the disciples' delegated authority (Mark 3:15, 6:7). Prayer is the reflex of faith—prayerlessness reveals self-dependence, even in areas of God-given gifting. When we trust our skills instead of God, we fail people in crisis. If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
Have you ever pointed someone to Jesus or his Word and it only made matters worse? Sometimes the first step in healing can stir up dormant evil. In Mark 9:14-29, Jesus comes from transfiguration glory and faces a demonic nightmare, failing disciples, and a desperate father crying, "I believe; help my unbelief!" This expository sermon reveals two life-changing lessons for Christians today: (1) God calls us to the valley, not the mountaintop—bring grace to "one boy" at a time; (2) Things often get worse before they get better when God's Word confronts sin and darkness. If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
Discover how to transform fleeting amazement at God's wonders into rock-solid faith that moves mountains! In this in-depth expository preaching from Mark 9:14-29, we dive deep into Jesus' encounter with a demon-possessed boy, a desperate father crying "I believe; help my unbelief!", and the disciples' shocking failure. Learn why unbelief pains Jesus more than evil itself, how grace is limited only by your faith, and practical steps to connect the dots: "God, if You can do THAT, what else can You do?" If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
Did John the Baptist fulfill the Elijah prophecy from Malachi—restoring hearts for the Messiah? If so, why did the people reject Jesus? Was John's mission a failure? Unpack the "or else" clause, the disciples' resurrection confusion, and God's thunderous command: "This is my Son—listen to Him!" Learn to listen courageously, expect suffering in glory, and see how YOU continue Elijah's heart-turning ministry today. If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
Every religion claims to have the truth. How could one possibly sort through all of them? And how can you know for sure whether the claims of the Bible are true? This message offers clear answers from 2 Peter 1:16-19. If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
Welcome to the Food for Your Soul Podcast, where we dive deep into God's Word through verse-by-verse expository preaching. In this episode, we continue to unpack the profound truths of Mark 9:1-13, exploring the Transfiguration of Jesus and God's resounding command: "Listen to Him!" Join us for an in-depth Bible study that reveals why Jesus stands alone as God's ultimate mouthpiece, surpassing even Moses and Elijah. Perfect for those who cherish Scripture and seek transformative insights to grow their faith. Why This Matters: The Transfiguration shows Jesus as the fulfillment of the Law and Prophets, with God's command to focus on Him alone. Learn how to apply this truth to your spiritual journey. If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
Have you ever wondered why God didn't just speak from heaven to everyone, or perform miracles on demand to prove Himself? In this sermon on the Transfiguration of Jesus Christ (Mark 9), we discover that the best kind of evidence isn't what most people expect. God gave us something even stronger than personal experiences or dazzling miracles—reliable testimony, eyewitness accounts, and His own voice from heaven saying, "This is my Son, whom I love. Listen to Him." Your attitude toward Jesus shapes the way you hear His words. In this message, we'll explore: * Why God's way of providing evidence is better than the way we imagine. * How the Transfiguration proves beyond doubt that Jesus is the Son of God. If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
Jesus' transfiguration on the mountain was one of the most important events in the gospel, and it's packed with meaning. After seeing it, Peter claimed he was an eyewitness to the Second Coming! We could go in many directions interpreting the meaning of this event, but a close look at the text makes it clear exactly what God says the meaning is. 📖 In this episode, we explore: The promise of Jesus' return in glory and power (Mark 8:38, Daniel 7). How the Transfiguration points to Christ's eternal identity, not just His resurrection. The meaning of Jesus' dazzling white clothes Why God's command, "This is my Son, whom I love. Listen to Him!" is the heart of the Transfiguration. If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
Join us as we dive deep into Mark 8:27-38, where Jesus delivers one of the most challenging messages in Scripture. Why did Jesus call Peter "Satan" after his bold confession? What does it mean to deny yourself, take up your cross, and lose your life for Christ? This in-depth expository preaching unpacks the cost of true discipleship and the paradox of gaining eternal life by letting go of this world. Perfect for those who love the Bible and crave transformative teaching! If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
You can be right about who Jesus is and still miss everything. Dive into the pivotal moment in the Gospel of Mark where Peter's great CONFESSION and his great CONFUSION appear back when Peter finally understands the first half of Mark but totally misses on the second half, which means he misses everything. In this in-depth expository sermon on Mark 8:27-34 (cross-referenced with Matthew 16:13-24 and Luke 9:18-23), discover why getting Jesus' identity right is only half the story—and why the path to glory through suffering is the heart of true discipleship. If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
When a web page becomes unstable and stops functioning, you have to refresh. The same thing happens to our faith. In 2 Peter 1:12-15, Peter hits that refresh key—especially for strong, knowledgeable believers who are established in the faith. This expository sermon unpacks the key to being stirred up anew in your walk with God. ⛪ Peter spent his last breaths making sure the church wouldn't fall into forgetfulness. This message reveals how truths you already know can be used to stir you up and revitalize your walk with God. Learn how to rekindle your passion, guard your faith, and navigate the "time of testing" in your Christian journey. If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
If God has infinite knowledge and all power, why doesn't he provide such compelling proof of his existence and of the truth of the Bible that no one could deny it? Surely he could convince everyone, couldn't he? In Mark 8:11-15, some people asked Jesus for what they regarded as better evidence than what he had already provided. And his answer provides insight that is just as relevant to your life today as it was to the people Jesus spoke to that day. If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
Welcome to the Food for Your Soul Podcast, where we dive deep into expository preaching and biblical truths for those who cherish the Word of God! In this episode, we explore Mark 7:24-8:26, uncovering the profound theme of spiritual perception through six pivotal events in Jesus' ministry, including the strange miracle where He heals a blind man in two stages. Why did Jesus make a man see "men like trees walking"? What does this teach us about avoiding spiritual blindness and growing in faith? If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
Why do people feel dirty when they commit certain sins? The answer is found in Jesus' teaching about cleanness and uncleanness. In this expository sermon on Mark 7:1-23, discover why you can't fight sin effectively without understanding its root cause—the human heart. Jesus' powerful teaching reveals that true uncleanness doesn't come from external influences but from within. If you're passionate about biblical truth and want lasting change in your spiritual life, this episode is for you! 🔥 What You'll Learn in This Episode: * Why legalism and rituals fail to address the real problem of sin * How to trace sinful behaviors back to their roots in your heart * The surprising source of uncleanness If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
In this study, we explore Jesus' confrontation with the Pharisees. He called them hypocrites, but why? They promoted following the traditions, which is exactly what they did. So where's the hypocrisy? Learning the true meaning of hypocrisy is crucial for learning how to be truly clean before God. If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
What does it mean to seek a better resurrection (Hebrews 11:35)? Do you know the difference between heaven with a lot of reward and heaven with little reward? And when you think of going to heaven, what is it, exactly, that you're going there to do? This expository sermon unpacks the biblical promise of a rich entry into the eternal kingdom of Jesus Christ. In this sermon, we examine: * Why heaven is far better than an eternal vacation. It's a place of eternal fulfillment through reigning with Christ. * How the Bible's call to "make your calling and election sure" (2 Peter 1:10) connects to a richly provided entry into God's kingdom. If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. And follow on social: * Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson/ * X/Twitter: @docdrf
Discover the profound lessons from Jesus walking on water in this inspiring sermon, "Jesus Takes a Walk." Dive into Mark 6:45-56 and explore how Jesus brings comfort and courage in the darkest storms of life. Learn how to trust God even when you feel forsaken, and uncover the truth about faith, hard-heartedness, and God's unwavering presence. Key Points from the Sermon: *Feeling Forgotten? Understand why God's people, from the Psalmists to Jesus Himself, have felt abandoned and how to find hope in those moments. * Jesus Sees You: Even in the darkest storms, Jesus sees your struggles and comes to you, treading the waves under His feet. * Faith Over Amazement: Discover the difference between being amazed by miracles and living by faith that transforms your life. * Softening Your Heart: Learn how to guard against a hardened heart and embrace the truths of God's Word. * Jesus' Power and Compassion: Witness the incredible healings at Gennesaret and the limitless compassion of Christ. Why Watch This Sermon? This sermon is perfect for anyone feeling overwhelmed, lost, or distant from God. It offers practical insights on trusting Jesus in life's storms, softening your heart to His truth, and experiencing His compassion and power. Whether you're seeking spiritual growth, encouragement, or a deeper understanding of faith, this message will inspire and uplift you. Share this video with someone who needs to hear this message of hope. Comment below: How has Jesus shown up in your storms? We'd love to hear your story! More sermons available at www.TreasuringGod.com
2 Peter 1:10-11 says you have a role in securing your calling and election. How can your actions affect what God has already done? And how can you anchor your faith to ensure you never drift away? In this message, we dive deep into: * The biblical meaning of election as God's choice for salvation (Ephesians 1:4, 2 Thessalonians 2:13). * How calling isn't just an invitation but God's powerful draw to share in His divine nature (2 Peter 1:3-4). * Warnings from Romans 9-11 about the fluid nature of election based on faith and perseverance. * Practical steps to overcome spiritual complacency and grow in virtues by trusting God's promises (2 Peter 1:5-9). If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. And follow on social: * Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson/ * X/Twitter: @docdrf
Feel inadequate? What if that's the whole point? We often think of the feeding of the 5,000 as a simple display of Jesus' power—but it's much more than that. In this expository sermon on Mark 6, we uncover a deeper meaning: Jesus was showing not only his ability to provide, but also how he uses his followers in gospel ministry. Jesus has the power to spread out the Messianic Banquet—the glorious feast at the end of the age. But in the meantime, he's serving spiritual food through the preaching of the gospel, and he chooses to work through us. That's right—you're invited to play a role. Just like the disciples, Jesus calls you to offer what you have, trust him with it, and watch him do miraculous things with your obedience. If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: * Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson
The feeding of the 5000 is the only miracle recorded in all four Gospels, and it's referred to at least 10 times in the New Testament. Even more striking, Jesus rebuked people three separate times for not understanding it. That raises a critical question: What is there to understand about a miracle? Isn't believing it enough? As you'll see in this deep-dive expository sermon, the feeding of the multitude wasn't just a miracle—it was a sermon in action. A preview of the great Messianic Banquet. And a powerful revelation of who Jesus truly is. If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. And follow on social: * Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson/
Have you ever felt like you're not enough for what God is calling you to do? The task is too big, your strength is small, you just don't have what it takes. In this episode, we unpack three powerful ways to strengthen your faith when you feel inadequate—and we anchor it all in this unshakable truth: 👉 Where God guides, God provides. God doesn't call the qualified; he qualifies the called. First you step forward in obedience, like Peter stepping out of the boat, and that's when the power comes. 💬 If you've ever thought, "God, I can't do this," this episode is for you. If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. And follow on social: * Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson/
We usually think of emotions as clouding wise decision-making. And that often happens. But that's not to say emotions have no role. In fact, if we follow Jesus' example, our decisions will be DRIVEN by emotions. When you're faced with a tough decision—like choosing between two godly options—how do you know what God's will is? The Bible doesn't always give detailed instructions for every situation. So how do you make wise, God-pleasing choices when there's no clear right or wrong? In this clip from our Gospel of Mark sermon series, we examine Mark 6, where Jesus makes a wise, godly decision—then changes His mind and makes the opposite decision... and both are within God's will. How is that possible? If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. And follow on social: * Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson/
Why Your Memory Could Be Sabotaging Your Spiritual Growth | Biblical Insights on Cleansing & Faith When you have struggled with a problem for years and it seems like nothing you've tried has worked, it may be that what will work is a truth that's already in your head, but you haven't fully digested it. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly sermons and biblical insights: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson 👍 Like, comment, and share to spread this message of hope! Key Topics Covered: * What is a "Judas memory," and how does it betray you? * Why forgetting your cleansing from past sins hinders spiritual growth * How God's desire for your purity can transform your perspective * Practical tips to remember and celebrate God's cleansing in your life Certified biblical counselor Dr. D. Richard Ferguson draws on 25 years of pastoral ministry and counseling to provide practical application of the principles in God's Word on the topic of anxiety. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. For Richard's official author page, visit https://drichardferguson.com. And follow on social: * Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson/
Are you facing a tough decision and wondering, "What is God's will?" What if you sincerely seek God's guidance, choose what you think is right, and later realize you were wrong? Are you now outside God's will? Did you miss the one perfect plan? In this episode, we explore a surprising moment when Jesus himself changed his plans—a day off that got canceled, a boat ride turned ministry opportunity—and how this teaches us something revolutionary about how God's will really works. 💡 You'll discover: Can there be more than one path within God's will? Is it possible to do something good but still miss God's plan? How to make godly, wise, Spirit-led decisions—without anxiety over outcomes. If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. And follow on social: * Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson/
"How do I get rid of fear?" What if that's the wrong question? God's answer isn't to eliminate fear, but to replace it with something more powerful. Featuring a raw, real look at Mark 6 and the devastating consequences of Herod's cowardice, this video uncovers the spiritual roots of fear—and God's beautiful, life-changing solution. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, insecurity, or paralyzing fear, this message will point you to true freedom. 📖 Want to go deeper? Check out chapters 23 and 24 of my book Anxiety and the Peace of God for an in-depth look at overcoming fear through the love of God. 📘 Grab the book – Anxiety and the Peace of God → https://www.amazon.com/dp/0974952656?tag=drichardfergu-20 If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content, visit TreasuringGod.com. And follow on social: * Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson/
🎙️ Are You Living for Others' Approval? Rejection is one of the deepest pains we face in life, and the way you respond to it will make a huge difference in the direction your life goes. In this episode, we explore how Jesus taught us to handle rejection in our ongoing study through the Gospel of Mark. Today's sermon clip is from Mark 6, where Jesus is sending out the 12 on their first mission, where he promised them they would face rejection and taught them how to handle it. Stick around to the end because after the clip, I'll give some practical ideas of how to enjoy God's approval. 00:00 - Rejection Hurts 00:58 - Jesus the Rejected 02:41 - "But I'm not Jesus!" 05:23 - Your God-Given Desire for Acceptance 06:36 - When You Look in the Mirror If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: * Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson/
Why You're Not Growing (And How to Start Again) | Overcoming Spiritual Stagnation Feeling stuck in your faith? Have you tried to change a bad habit or grow in love, patience, or self-control, but nothing seems to stick? In this powerful sermon based on 2 Peter 1:8-9, we dive into why spiritual growth stalls and how to break free from stagnation. Discover the two surprising reasons—spiritual blindness and forgetfulness—that hold you back, and learn practical steps to see God clearly and grow in grace. If you've ever wondered, "Why am I not changing?" this message will inspire and equip you to move forward in your walk with God. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly sermons to grow your faith 💬 Comment below: What's one area of your faith where you feel stuck? Let's discuss! 🔗 Key Points: * Why spiritual growth feels impossible sometimes * The "vision problem" keeping you from progress * Practical steps to deepen your understanding of God's Word If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. Certified biblical counselor Dr. D. Richard Ferguson draws on 25 years of pastoral ministry and counseling to provide practical application of the principles in God's Word on the topic of anxiety. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. And follow on social: * Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson/
Weighed down with guilt and shame? Self-justification won't help. Freedom comes through repentance. Learn the six components of real repentance, why Jesus emphasized it, and how it helps us not only receive forgiveness but also draw near to God. Timestamps: 0:00 - The agony of lingering shame 0:36 - Why Jesus majored on repentance 2:25 - The best way to get grace from God 5:08 - What Is Repentance? 6:02 - Six Ingredients of True Repentance 12:10 - Why the call to repentance is unpopular but vital. 13:38 - Power of Expository Preaching For the blog post on the Seven Best Websites for Sermons, go to https://drichardferguson.com/best-sermon-websites If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content, visit TreasuringGod.com. And follow on social: * Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson/
If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. Certified biblical counselor Dr. D. Richard Ferguson draws on 25 years of pastoral ministry and counseling to provide practical application of the principles in God's Word on the topic of anxiety. To get your copy of the book Anxiety and the Peace of God, which has all the material in these podcasts and much more, go to https://drichardferguson.com/books/anxiety-the-peace-of-god-six-biblical-cures-for-worry-stress-and-inner-turmoil/ For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. And follow on social: Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson/
If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. This session dives deep into the Bible's surprising guide to happiness, showing you how to embrace seven God-given blessings—eating, drinking, work, wealth, family, youth, and more—even when troubles like loss, anxiety, or unpredictability strike. What You'll Learn: * Why life feels like "chasing the wind" and how to stop * The seven blessings Ecclesiastes calls us to enjoy * How to find joy in God's gifts, not just the gifts themselves * Practical steps to shift from anxiety to contentment * Why humility and wisdom are key to a joyful life Certified biblical counselor Dr. D. Richard Ferguson draws on 25 years of pastoral ministry and counseling to provide practical application of the principles in God's Word on the topic of anxiety. To get your copy of the book Anxiety and the Peace of God, which has all the material in these podcasts and much more, go to https://drichardferguson.com/books/anxiety-the-peace-of-god-six-biblical-cures-for-worry-stress-and-inner-turmoil/ For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. And follow on social: D. Richard Ferguson's Bible Q&A page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/188340205905515/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson/
How would you define an impactful, productive life? Peter gives a definition that wouldn't even occur to most people. But it's a definition that gives hope to everyone, regardless of your age, health, skills, or any other factor. A powerful, effective life is within your reach! If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. 🕒 Timestams: * 00:00 Introduction: When Life Lacks Impact • 03:33 Chapter 1: God Designed Us to Crave Productivity • 04:35 Chapter 2: Not all Work Is Productivity • 07:10 Chapter 3: True Productivity Defined • 09:00 Chapter 4: The Path to true Productivity • 10:20 Chapter 5: Is Your Relationship with Christ Working? • 15:11 Chapter 6: Moral Growth Drive Temporal Productivity • 20:48 Chapter 7: An Impactful Life Is Within Your Reach My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content, visit TreasuringGod.com. And follow on social: * Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson/
If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. God's Word provides numerous solutions to runaway anxiety. Some are obvious, like trusting God. Others most people would never guess. In this session, we explore how pride causes anxiety, and how to learn the secret of contentment through humility. Certified biblical counselor Dr. D. Richard Ferguson draws on 25 years of pastoral ministry and counseling to provide practical application of the principles in God's Word on the topic of anxiety. To get your copy of the book Anxiety and the Peace of God, which has all the material in these podcasts and much more, go to https://drichardferguson.com/books/anxiety-the-peace-of-god-six-biblical-cures-for-worry-stress-and-inner-turmoil/ For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. And follow on social: Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson/
If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. Are you struggling with nagging unhappiness or anxiety over unmet desires—like a better body, financial stability, or a longed-for relationship? This video explores how greed, often misunderstood as just a financial craving, can attach to any desire and rob you of peace. Drawing from Philippians 4:10-13, we unpack Apostle Paul's journey from greed-induced anxiety to a state of unshakable contentment, no matter the circumstances. Key Topics Covered: * What is greed, and how does it fuel anxiety? * The biblical meaning of contentment (Philippians 4:11-13 explained) * How to rejoice in God amidst unfulfilled desires * Why wealth doesn't guarantee peace—and poverty doesn't steal it * Actionable exercises to train your heart for godliness and contentment Certified biblical counselor Dr. D. Richard Ferguson draws on 25 years of pastoral ministry and counseling to provide practical application of the principles in God's Word on the topic of anxiety. To get your copy of the book Anxiety and the Peace of God, which has all the material in these podcasts and much more, go to https://drichardferguson.com/books/anxiety-the-peace-of-god-six-biblical-cures-for-worry-stress-and-inner-turmoil/ For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. And follow on social: Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson/
In this episode, D. Richard Ferguson debunks Richard Dawkins' claims about faith, exposing the flaws in his definition. Learn how biblical faith rests on solid evidence—trustworthy testimony and historical facts. Discover why miracles, eyewitness accounts, and the gospel message are powerful reasons to believe. And be encouraged by the same God who empowered the Apostles empowers you today! If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. 0:00 Introduction: Stephen Hawking's definition of faith 01:13 Christian faith is evidence-based 02:16 Scientific evidence isn't the only kind of evidence 06:20 The Apostles were given miraculous power to prove they were speaking God's Word 16:35 Jesus empowers his people 19:03 Conclusion and application My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content, visit TreasuringGod.com. And follow on social: * Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson/
If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. Philippians 4:8 says if you want the peace of God, think about whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely admirable, excellent, and praiseworthy. But if you had enough control over your thoughts to do that, you wouldn't have an anxiety problem in the first place. How is Philippians 4:8 practical in times of runaway, out-of-control thoughts? Certified biblical counselor Dr. D. Richard Ferguson draws on 25 years of pastoral ministry and counseling to provide practical application of the principles in God's Word on the topic of anxiety. IN THIS EPISODE: * 0:23 - Obsessive thoughts * 6:56 - Where do spontaneous thoughts come from? * 11:06 - Be Suspicious of your thoughts * 14:51 - Think like God * 21:12 - Are your thoughts true? * 34:01 - Correct wrong thoughts * 41:03 - Correcting your memories * 49:54 - Your mind house * 52:56 - Godliness Training Exercises To get your copy of the book Anxiety and the Peace of God, which has all the material in these podcasts and much more, go to https://drichardferguson.com/books/anxiety-the-peace-of-god-six-biblical-cures-for-worry-stress-and-inner-turmoil/ For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. And follow on social: Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson/
If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. The greatest command in the Bible is also the one that brings you the most joy in life: love. But that command is also the most difficult. How do you change what and whom you love? And how do you start loving someone you don't currently love Certified biblical counselor Dr. D. Richard Ferguson draws on 25 years of pastoral ministry and counseling to provide practical application of the principles in God's Word on the 📖 Key Points with Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction: Why your virtues (joy, love, self-control) can collapse under pressure 07:37 – The Centrality of Perseverance: Why it's the lynchpin for all virtues 11:14 – How to Build Perseverance: Using self-control workouts for small and big moments 18:46 – Jesus' Example: How He persevered for the joy set before Him (Hebrews 12:1-3) 28:16 – Your Prize: God's promises to fuel your perseverance (Romans 2:7, Galatians 6:9) 32:31 - Q&A 🔔 Subscribe for More Expository Sermons! Join our community for weekly Bible-based teachings to deepen your faith and equip you to live God's Word. 💬 Let's Connect! For more content visit TreasuringGod.com. And follow on social: Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson/
If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. Every Christian longs to be close to God. It's our greatest desire. But what if you discovered something in your soul is pushing him away—holding his blessings at arm's length so you don't experience his love? One of the keys to increased blessing on your life is to stop rejecting them when they come. Certified biblical counselor Dr. D. Richard Ferguson draws on 25 years of pastoral ministry and counseling to provide practical application of the principles in God's Word on the topic of anxiety. IN THIS EPISODE: * 1:21 - Repelling God's love * 4:19 - Self-Pity * 7:20 - Anger and entitlement * 12:03 - Pessimism is a lie * 14:27 - Godliness Training Exercises To get your copy of the book Anxiety and the Peace of God, which has all the material in these podcasts and much more, go to https://drichardferguson.com/books/anxiety-the-peace-of-god-six-biblical-cures-for-worry-stress-and-inner-turmoil/ For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. And follow on social: Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson/
If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. How strong is your character under pressure? In this sermon, discover why perseverance is the key to unshakable faith. Explore how to build lasting virtues like self-control, joy, and love that hold up when life squeezes you. Learn practical, Bible-based steps to strengthen your perseverance muscle, using Jesus' example and God's promises to keep you steadfast. Perfect for Christians seeking to grow in spiritual resilience and live out God's divine nature. Certified biblical counselor Dr. D. Richard Ferguson draws on 25 years of pastoral ministry and counseling to provide practical application of the principles in God's Word on the 📖 Key Points with Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction: Why your virtues (joy, love, self-control) can collapse under pressure 07:37 – The Centrality of Perseverance: Why it's the lynchpin for all virtues 11:14 – How to Build Perseverance: Using self-control workouts for small and big moments 18:46 – Jesus' Example: How He persevered for the joy set before Him (Hebrews 12:1-3) 28:16 – Your Prize: God's promises to fuel your perseverance (Romans 2:7, Galatians 6:9) 32:31 - Q&A 🔔 Subscribe for More Expository Sermons! Join our community for weekly Bible-based teachings to deepen your faith and equip you to live God's Word. 💬 Let's Connect! For more content visit TreasuringGod.com. And follow on social: Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson/
If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. Much of our anxiety comes from fear of future trouble. How does gratitude help with worry? Is it possible to be genuinely thankful for what hasn't happened yet when you don't know what it will be? Certified biblical counselor Dr. D. Richard Ferguson draws on 25 years of pastoral ministry and counseling to provide practical application of the principles in God's Word on the topic of anxiety. IN THIS EPISODE: * 0:59 - Failure to notice God's gifts increases anxiety * 3:46 - It's impossible to feel anxiety and gratitude at the same time * 9:44 - How to inject bursts of joy into your heart all through the day 12:40 - The gift of the ability to enjoy 14:55 - Be specific with your gratitude 18:58 - When you can't stop thinking about a problem 23:51 - When you suffer loss 30:31 - Godliness training exercises To get your copy of the book Anxiety and the Peace of God, which has all the material in these podcasts and much more, go to https://drichardferguson.com/books/anxiety-the-peace-of-god-six-biblical-cures-for-worry-stress-and-inner-turmoil/ For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. And follow on social: Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson/
If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. God showers us with thousands of blessings every day. So why are we so prone to miss those and fixate on the handful of hardships? This chapter will reintroduce you to a thousand gestures of God's love coming from every direction. Certified biblical counselor Dr. D. Richard Ferguson draws on 25 years of pastoral ministry and counseling to provide practical application of the principles in God's Word on the topic of anxiety. IN THIS EPISODE: * 0:59 - Failure to notice God's gifts increases anxiety * 3:46 - It's impossible to feel anxiety and gratitude at the same time * 9:44 - How to inject bursts of joy into your heart all through the day 12:40 - The gift of the ability to enjoy 14:55 - Be specific with your gratitude 18:58 - When you can't stop thinking about a problem 23:51 - When you suffer loss 30:31 - Godliness training exercises To get your copy of the book Anxiety and the Peace of God, which has all the material in these podcasts and much more, go to https://drichardferguson.com/books/anxiety-the-peace-of-god-six-biblical-cures-for-worry-stress-and-inner-turmoil/ For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. And follow on social: Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson/
If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. How did the psalmists maintain their hope and joy even while being honest and realistic about their troubles? Certified biblical counselor Dr. D. Richard Ferguson draws on 25 years of pastoral ministry and counseling to provide practical application of the principles in God's Word on the topic of anxiety. IN THIS EPISODE: * 1:50 - When you can't seem to give your troubles to God * 5:46 - The importance of self-talk * 9:20 - The role of negative thinking * 15:36 - Talk to God about your troubles * 17:50 - Talk to yourself about God * 25:20 - Your problems are not the whole story * 33:30 - Example of how to apply the principles * 40:58 - Godliness training exercises To get your copy of the book Anxiety and the Peace of God, which has all the material in these podcasts and much more, go to https://drichardferguson.com/books/anxiety-the-peace-of-god-six-biblical-cures-for-worry-stress-and-inner-turmoil/ For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. And follow on social: Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson/
You may be surprised to discover how much of your anxiety is caused by ingratitude. But the solution isn't as simplistic as it sounds. Can you define gratitude?
If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. Left to themselves, anxious feelings and thoughts will rage out of control. But God has given us a secret weapon to rein them in. Certified biblical counselor Dr. D. Richard Ferguson draws on 25 years of pastoral ministry and counseling to provide practical application of the principles in God's Word on the topic of anxiety. IN THIS EPISODE: * 0:48 - How prayer activates executive function * 5:54 - How Jesus despised his shame * 11:05 - How prayer accomplishes "grounding" * 17:24 - How prayer accomplishes "chunking" * 20:53 - How prayer accomplishes "labeling" * 29:28 - How prayer accomplishes "cognitive restructuring" * 30:48 - How prayer accomplishes "behavioral activation" * 31:55 - More ways prayer reduces anxiety * 34:08 - How Hannah's prayer took away her anxiety * 37:15 - Godliness training exercises To get your copy of the book Anxiety and the Peace of God, which has all the material in these podcasts and much more, go to https://drichardferguson.com/books/anxiety-the-peace-of-god-six-biblical-cures-for-worry-stress-and-inner-turmoil/ For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. And follow on social: Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson/
Imagine how much better your life would be with more self-control. Why is it so hard? Elite athletes who are unbelievers often outshine most Christians in this area—how can that be, if it's a fruit of the Spirit? This study explores what sets Christian self-control apart and how to strengthen this virtue in your life.
If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. Studies of the human brain and nervous system have mapped the physical components of the body's anxiety response. But the physical aspect isn't even half the story. This chapter will introduce the basics of what the latest research reveals about the physical aspect of anxiety. Certified biblical counselor Dr. D. Richard Ferguson draws on 25 years of pastoral ministry and counseling to provide practical application of the principles in God's Word on the topic of anxiety. IN THIS EPISODE: * Prayer and the executive function of the brain - 0:42 * How to Retrain Your Amygdala - 2:45 * The Difference between Biblical Prayer & other Prayers - 6:01 * Why Anxiety Keeps Coming Back when You Only Address Physical & Mental Anxiety without Addressing Spiritual Causes - 6:35 * How God Designed Imagination to Help You Control Your Emotions - 9:01 To get your copy of the book Anxiety and the Peace of God, which has all the material in these podcasts and much more, go to https://drichardferguson.com/books/anxiety-the-peace-of-god-six-biblical-cures-for-worry-stress-and-inner-turmoil/ For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. And follow on social: Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson/
If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. Why did God give humans the gift of imagination? For amusement? Or is there a higher purpose that can give you success in the areas of the Christian life you find the most difficult? Certified biblical counselor Dr. D. Richard Ferguson draws on 25 years of pastoral ministry and counseling to provide practical application of the principles in God's Word on the topic of anxiety. IN THIS EPISODE: * Is Anxiety a Medical Issue or a Spiritual Issue? - 0:25 * How to Retrain Your Amygdala - 2:45 * Biblical Visualization - 3:20 * Dangerous Visualization - 11:31 To get your copy of the book Anxiety and the Peace of God, which has all the material in these podcasts and much more, go to https://drichardferguson.com/books/anxiety-the-peace-of-god-six-biblical-cures-for-worry-stress-and-inner-turmoil/ For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. And follow on social: Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson/
If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. How can you fireproof your heart to protect yourself from the ravages of both bad and good anxiety? Certified biblical counselor Dr. D. Richard Ferguson draws on 25 years of pastoral ministry and counseling to provide practical application of the principles in God's Word on the topic of anxiety. To get your copy of the book Anxiety and the Peace of God, which has all the material in these podcasts and much more, go to https://drichardferguson.com/books/anxiety-the-peace-of-god-six-biblical-cures-for-worry-stress-and-inner-turmoil/ For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. And follow on social: Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson/
Anxiety should energize you to handle a crisis, then subside. But what if it lingers even after you've done all you can?
Anxiety is miserable--and deadly. Why did God give us such a harmful emotion? To find God's peace for your troubled heart, it's essential to understand God's purposes for anxiety.
President Trump pardoned 1500 Jan 6 prisoners. But what about those who committed violence? After 15 years on the radio, author, pastor, and biblical counselor Darrell Ferguson moved his popular Food for Your Soul program to a podcast. This season of the podcast is God's Hand in the Headlines, an analysis of current events from a biblical point of view.For more content, including hundreds of free sermon downloads, visit https://www.treasuringgod.comAuthor Website: https://drichardferguson.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFergusonInstagram: darrell.r.fergusonYoutube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson
There are poor people in LA who have lost everything in the fires while many of the rich people have another big, beautiful home waiting for them. What are we to make of income inequality? For more content, including hundreds of free sermon downloads, visit https://www.treasuringgod.comAuthor Website: https://drichardferguson.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFergusonInstagram: darrell.r.fergusonYoutube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson
This message provides specific instructions on how to use a promise to unleash God's power in your life
What does it mean, exactly that we participate in divine nature? And why do some Christians seem to participate more than others? 2 Peter 1:4 has the answers and reveals a connection between God's attributes and his promises that really opened my eyes to some truths about the Christian life I hadn't really understood before.
Should Christians be environmentalists? What does it mean to be human, and what is your role in subduing the creation?More sermons available here: https://foodforyoursoul.net/sermon/?bk=19&ch=8
You've heard all about the LA fires, but have you heard the biblical perspective? This episode points to principles in God's Word that will help you think about this disaster the way God thinks about it.After 15 years on the radio, author, pastor, and biblical counselor Darrell Ferguson moved his popular Food for Your Soul program to a podcast. This season of the podcast is God's Hand in the Headlines, an analysis of current events from a biblical point of view.In this episode: four biblical principles for understanding the LA fires.1) Are the fires from God? (1:20 mark)2) How should we respond? (4:21 mark)3) The role of compassion (8:00 mark)4) Should Christians be environmentalists? (9:28 mark)For more content, including hundreds of free sermon downloads, visit https://www.treasuringgod.comAuthor Website: https://drichardferguson.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFergusonInstagram: darrell.r.fergusonYoutube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson
Final podcast on the WARFARE acronym for fighting temptation and ongoing godliness training exercises. Tomorrow we beging season 3--Stress and Anxiety.
Today we cover the second A in the WARFARE acronym. Learn how to defeat temptation by means of one of the most pleasurable sensations there is: gratitude.
Why celebrate the new year? Because God wants us to. It's why he made years. But what's the right way to celebrate it?
To resist temptation, use the acronym W.A.R.F.A.R.E. Today's podcast covers the F - Fight!
Sin flourishes in darkness. To kill it, it must be brought into the light. Today's podcast will show you how.
Jesus said if your hand or foot causes you to sin, cut it off. So why do so many Christians still have both hands and both feet?
Why work so hard to avoid temptation? Wouldn't it be better to just become strong enough to consistently resist it? Scripture calls us to do both. Today's podcast explains why.
Many addictions you can at least try to quit cold turkey. But overeating is a hard one, becuase you have to eat. How do you know when one bite is okay, but the next bite is sin?
We know knowledge of God is important, but what does it mean, exactly, to know an invisible being in a way that goes beyond knowing about him?
The first step in approaching God is repentance. But what if your heart just isn't as broken over your sin as it should be?
How do you change direction? It starts with changing your desires. Today's podcast will show you how.
How do you change direction? It starts with changing your desires. Today and tomorrow we see how that's done.
What does the Bible say about justice? Excerpt from the sermon "Swapping Battles" from 1 Samuel 25.
Laken Riley's killer got a life sentence, and Trump picks Matt Gaetz and Pam Bondi for AG. What's the biblical point of view on these headlines?
To prefer God's presence over the pleasure of sin, you must have pleasurable enough experiences with his presence. Today's podcast will show you how.
Today's podcast will help you discover the idols in your heart that you may not know about.
There is grace that God gives you that can be left on the table. Today's short podcast is on how to avoid forfeiting the grace you could enjoy.
You know you should seek hard after God, but you won't until your desires for him are strong enough. This podcast is about how to stimulate your thirst for him.
Consistent obedence happens only when you truly prefer a better option. This message is about how to prefer God's way above sin.
You gain self-control not by increasign willpower; but by changing what your soul values. You will consistently choose what you value most highly. Today's podcast is about how to discover what values have gone wrong and how to begin changing them.
We're looking at three ways you can get increased power from God to fight temptation. The first (yesterday's podcast) was through prayer. The other two: Scripture & Spiritual Gifts
We're looking at three ways you can get increased power from God to fight temptation. The first is through prayer.
It's always a fun question to ask, "If you could have one superpower, what would you want it to be?" But the far more important question is this: "What would you do with it?" If God gave you unlimited access to divine power for the next 30 days, how would you use it? Peter is going to teach us what God's power is for, and how to get a lot more of it than you have.
Why can you resist 99 out of 100 temptations, but certain ones get you every time? Today's podcast will show you the three things that will give you the abilty to have long term victory in those troublesome areas.
1) We suffer painful consequences for sin, and yet we never seem to learn. Why aren't the painful consequences enough to get us undeceived? 2) What is the role of the Holy Spirit in all this?3) How do we overcome the feeling that I can commit this sin and then repent afterward, so I go ahead and do it?4) How can we use pleasure to undeceive our desires?5) What if you haven't experienced enough delight in God's presence to compete with the pleasure of some sin?6) Where is the line where a good gift becomes sin?
When you lack self control, what's in control of what you do? We all need to increase our self-control. So we are devoting this entire season of the Food For Your Soul podcast to discover what Scripture says about how to gain greater self-control with step-by-step instruction on how to break free from whatever enslaves you. This season begins with a deep dive into exactly how temptation works in your soul (episodes 1-7). This lays the foundation for the rest of the study.
When you lack self control, what's in control of what you do? We all need to increase our self-control. So we are devoting this entire season of the Food For Your Soul podcast to discover what Scripture says about how to gain greater self-control with step-by-step instruction on how to break free from whatever enslaves you. This season begins with a deep dive into exactly how temptation works in your soul (episodes 1-7). This lays the foundation for the rest of the study.
When you lack self control, what's in control of what you do? We all need to increase our self-control. So we are devoting this entire season of the Food For Your Soul podcast to discover what Scripture says about how to gain greater self-control with step-by-step instruction on how to break free from whatever enslaves you. This season begins with a deep dive into exactly how temptation works in your soul (episodes 1-7). This lays the foundation for the rest of the study.
When you lack self control, what's in control of what you do? We all need to increase our self-control. So we are devoting this entire season of the Food For Your Soul podcast to discover what Scripture says about how to gain greater self-control with step-by-step instruction on how to break free from whatever enslaves you. This season begins with a deep dive into exactly how temptation works in your soul (episodes 1-6). This lays the foundation for the rest of the study.
When you lack self control, what's in control of what you do? We all need to increase our self-control. So we are devoting this entire season of the Food For Your Soul podcast to discover what Scripture says about how to gain greater self-control with step-by-step instruction on how to break free from whatever enslaves you.
This season begins with a deep dive into exactly how temptation works in your soul (episodes 1-6). This lays the foundation for the rest of the study.
When you lack self control, what's in control of what you do? We all need to increase our self-control. So we are devoting this entire season of the Food For Your Soul podcast to discover what Scripture says about how to gain greater self-control with step-by-step instruction on how to break free from whatever enslaves you. This season begins with a deep dive into exactly how temptation works in your soul (episodes 1-6). This lays the foundation for the rest of the study.
When you lack self control, what's in control of what you do? We all need to increase our self-control. So we are devoting this entire season of the Food For Your Soul podcast to discover what Scripture says about how to gain greater self-control with step-by-step instruction on how to break free from whatever enslaves you. This season begins with a deep dive into exactly how temptation works in your soul (episodes 1-6). This lays the foundation for the rest of the study.
When you lack self control, what's in control of what you do? We all need to increase our self-control. So we are devoting this entire season of the Food For Your Soul podcast to discover what Scripture says about how to gain greater self-control with step-by-step instruction on how to break free from whatever enslaves you.
Have you ever wondered what makes a sin evil? Why are some evils so much worse than others? Most people think it's all about how many people are hurt by your sin, but that doesn't square with Scripture. Some of the worst, most vile of all sins don't affect people at all. What, exactly, is the definition of evil?
Do you ever feel like you must have been home sick the day the Holy Spirit handed out gifts? You see the amazing giftedness of others, and it just feels like you really don't have much to offer? If you're a believer, then you have a gift. It may be that it seems ineffective, because you're offering it to the wrong people.
The main wish of every New Testament writer for us is that we would receive more grace. The Holy Spirit inspired them to say some form of "Grace to you" 31 times. If it's that important for us to get more grace, why do we so seldom ask God for more grace in our prayers for ourselves and others? This message aims to open your eyes to the astonishing value of grace.
In Mark 6:5 we read the astonishing statement, "Jesus could not do any miracles there." What was it about that place that prevented miracles? And is it possible for you or me to do something that would create the same circumstance?
It's fashionable these days for people to claim agnosticism when it comes to belief in God. It's ironic. It's the most important topic there is, and yet it's the one thing educated people take pride in not knowing. They figure a person can't be expected to know everything. That's certainly true—you can't be faulted for that. But at what point is it your fault when you remain ignorant about something?
We left off last time with Jairus just getting word that his little daughter is dead. She's dead because Jesus dragged his heals and took so long to come. But Jesus goes to his house anyway, shows up hours after the girl died, walks into the funeral, and says something that made everyone think he was a lunatic.
Imagine how your life would be different if God turned one specific part of his sovereign control over to you. God was still in charge of what happened and what didn't happen, he still decided what blessings you got and didn't get, he still chose whether to say yes or no to your prayers-everything remained the same except this one thing- he turned the timing of it all over to you. It was up to you to decide when everything would happen. How would your life be different--
Have you ever experienced some terrible loss and felt like you didn't know how you would go on-- You were afraid of the sun coming up tomorrow because it doesn't feel like you'll be able to handle life now-- Today and next time we're going to see how Jesus helps a man who felt like that after losing a child.
If some little green man from Mars landed in the United States today and asked the question, -What matters most to these people-- What defines them---the answer would be clear. In our culture, right now, it's sexual preference, skin color, and gender identity. Those are the things our culture thinks define you. They are the most important elements of who you are. You can make fun of someone's profession, their religion, their education, their ancestry, their culture-all that is fair game. But you can go to jail for saying something about their sexual preferences, skin color, or gender identity. How did we come to define ourselves with such superficial things-- And what's the true indication of our identiy--
In Mark 5, Jesus inturrupts one miracle to perform another unrelated miracle. At least, they seem unrelated at first, but it turns out they are not only related, but you can't even understand the meaning of one of them without seeing the relationship between both of them. Most people miss that relationship, but it becomes crystal clear if you focus on one, key, unexpected word. See if you can catch it as we go.
Why does God often say no to good prayers-- And then he gives evil people what they want. In Mark 5, a man asks Jesus, -Let me go with you.- He's a good man who loves Jesus and he just wants to leave everything and be with Jesus. And Jesus says no. And in the same chapter, Jesus says yes to an evil request from the crowd, and he even grants the request of some demons who ask to be sent into some pigs. Why does Jesus say yes to bad prayers and no to a good prayer--
Today we're going to meet a man who might have been the most miserable person to ever live. God wants you to take a real good look at this man, because very soon, you're going to be tempted to drag some of that very same misery into your own life, and God wants you to see it coming.
On Wednesday's podcast we left off with Jesus confronting a maniac who was controlled by 2000 demons. They want Jesus to send them into a heard of pigs. Why on earth would they want that-- And more importantly, why did Jesus grant their request--
In the early 90's, Frank Peretti wrote a novel titled This Present Darkness. I don't think he got everything right about the nature of spiritual warfare, but one thing that book did an amazing job at was to enable the reader to imagine the unseen realm of angels and demons. In Mark 5, Jesus gives us a real life glimpse into that world.
In horror movies about ghosts, there's often a scene where objects start flying around the room. Have you ever thought of how scary that would be if it happened to you-- You're alone in a room and things just rise up in the air and fling themselves into the wall. It would be terrifying. But why-- It doesn't take much power to throw something across the room-little children could do that. So what's so scary about a spirit doing it--
If you had to rate your faith on a scale of 1-10, how would you rate it-- One of the purposes of Mark is to teach us what it means to have faith in Jesus, by showing examples of people who have it and who don't have it. The first was in ch.2, with the guys who dug a hole in Jesus' roof to get their friend to Jesus. Faith will drive you to get close to Christ.-Today we'll see another aspect-the way faith responds when life is out of control and nothing makes sense.
As Christians, we all claim to believe that God's Word contains awesome divine power. We claim to believe that, but what do our lives say about how much we believe it--
Imagine a farmer who was completely perplexed and dumbfounded by the fact that he had little or no harvest. Year after year, he barely gets any wheat or corn and he's beside himself trying to figure out why. Then you find out he never plants anything. -That's a dumb story-would never happen-but it happens every day in our spiritual lives.
Jesus made some of his words hard to understand on purpose to protect us from listening to them the wrong way. It's to protect us from having our hearts turn into hard soil, shallow soil, or weedy soil. How does making things hard to understand accomplish that-- So far we've seen how it protects us from becoming hard or shallow. Today we'll see how it rescues us from the weeds.
We've been studying the parable of the soils in Mark 4, and we're discovering that each of these soils has a lot to say to Christians about how we should listen to God's Word. It's not just a parable about unbelievers. It's for us. And the soil we look at today, the shallow soil, might be the most important one for us to consider in our daily Bible reading.
We've been studying the parable of the soils in Mark 4, and we're discovering that each of these soils has a lot to say to Christians about how we should listen to God's Word. It's not just a parable about unbelievers. It's for us. And the soil we look at today, the shallow soil, might be the most important one for us to consider in our daily Bible reading.
When you read something in the Bible and don't understand it, how content are you to remain ignorant-- How much that bothers you provides important information about the condition of your heart.
If you had to rate your relationship with God on a scale from one to ten, where would you put it-- And when you answer that, the next question is, on what basis are you making that judgment--
Think of the last time you read the Bible or listened to a sermon. Do you know what God wanted that passage of Scripture to accomplish in your life-- And is it being accomplished--
What are 3 or 4 things in this world you desire today-- Some good food, some good personal interactions with someone, some rest, some productivity-what do you want-- In today's passage, Jesus is gong to warn us about a very significant danger those desires pose to your relationship with him.
You're being lied to. And who is the liar who is trying to pull the wool over your eyes-- That liar is sitting there in your bank account.
In today's passage, Jesus speaks to fruitful Christians and warns us about something that can make you become unfruitful. And it's something you're going to face today.
There's a way that you can listen to God's Word that will seem life-changing, but that will make your faith collapse when trouble comes into your life. Jesus warns us about that kind of listening in the parable of the soils in Mark 4.
The meaning of the Word of God never changes. When you study a passage of Scripture, that passage can never mean what it never meant. But if that's the case, does that mean God never speaks any unique message to us-- He just says the same thing to everyone-- Or does God have something specific to say to you individually--
Jesus said the devil works hard at removing the Word of God from your heart as soon as you hear it. In today's podcast, we'll take a look at the strategies he uses.
The meaning of the Word of God never changes. When you study a passage of Scirpture, that passage can never mean what it never meant. But if that's the case, does that mean God never speaks any unique message to us-- He just says the same thing to everyone-- Or does God have something specific to say to you individually--
Do you think of Jesus Christ as your brother-- How about as your son-- In Mark 3, Jesus called his followers his brothers, sisters, and mothers. What does it mean to be a brother or sister or mother to Jesus--
How can you sleep at night when the world is on fire-- This psalm provides a pillow to rest your head on in times of chaos and fear.
Do you know God's will for your life-- If not, Jesus said you are not in God's family. No one is included among God's people unless they not only know God's will, but they do it.
In Mark 3, Jesus warns the Scribes about the unforgivable sin. Is there anything more terrifying than the thought that a sin could be unforgiveable-- Is it possible you have committed the unforgiveable sin-- If not, then why did Jesus warn us about it-- But if so, what is it about that sin that makes it unforgiveable--
If you're trying to prove that Christianity is true, there are some passages in the Bible the critics love to bring up that are hard to explain. Why do you suppose God put those passages in the Bible--
Most of the time when God describes Christians in the New Testament, we're described in terms of being righteous and holy. I John 3-9 says -No one who is born of God will continue to sin.- 2 Corinthians 5-17 says if you're in Christ you are a new creation. You are the righteousness of God. Romans 8-9 says you are controlled by the Holy Spirit. Romans 6 says you've died to sin. Why does God so often describe us as being holy and righteous when in practice, we fall into sin on a daily basis--
Jesus said the key to finding rest for your soul is to take his easy yoke. Does that mean the Christian life is easy-- Be perfect as your heavenly Father is perfect, love your enemies, forgive as you have been forgiven-is all that an easy yoke--
What do you do when the weight on your shoulders is too much, and the pressure is making life a burden-- The struggle to justify your existence, the striving to get what you think you need to be happy, the oppressive task of measuring up in the eyes of your dad or your friends or yourself-how do you find rest from all that-- And why is it so important to God that we find that rest--
When you read commands in the Bible, do you take them as a job description-- If you do, you might be dishonoring God in your very efforts to obey him. In today's study of Mark 2, we're going to see a much better way of obeying God's commands.
What should you do when your body is doing the right thing, but your heart isn't on board-- You read the Bible, but you don't really want to. You sing praise songs in church, but you don't feel anything in your heart. How can you bring your heart in line with what you know in your head is right--
John the Baptist was a great prophet of God, and he taught his disciples to fast regularly. Jesus and his disciples didn't. And understanding why can be the difference between a life of joy and an empty life.
Is there anyone you're reluctant to share the gospel with because there's no way they would be interested-- If so, that might reveal something you may not have known - about yourself.
In the Gospel of Mark, the crowds are routinely portrayed in a negative light, even though they clamored to come to Jesus. Why would the Bible speak negatively about people who just wanted to be close to Jesus--
Very often, when a person wants to come to Christ, God will put huge obstacles in the person's way. Why does he do that-- When you want to draw near to God, that's a God-honoring desire, right-- So why does God make it so hard--
Does God want you to forgive people who hurt you but don't repent-- You should be patient and kind and loving and soft-hearted toward people who hurt you, but forgiveness takes it a step further.
If God said to you, -I'll heal anything you want right here and now- what would you choose-- And if you first answer is an ailment or problem with your body, think carefully. What would you say if God said, -Okay, I'll heal that if you want. But are you sure you want to spend this on a bodily problem--- How would you respond--
In second Peter 1-9, Peter talks about people who have forgotten that they have been cleansed from their past sins. What happens when you forget God's forgiveness-- He says that goes along with being nearsighted and blind, ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of Christ, and lacking in virtues. Remembering your forgiveness is so absolutely crucial. I hope today's podcast will help you do that.
He didn't do it often, but there were some times when Jesus spent a whole night in prayer. There were times he traveled long distances on foot before sunrise just to get to an ideal place for prayer. Do you believe it would be worth what it would cost you for you to follow his example--
Of all Jesus' miracles, which one is the most boring-- The least celebrated-- I'd say the healing of Peter's mother-in-law would have to be in the running. So why did the Holy Spirit repeat the record of it three times in his Word when other more celebrated miracles are only mentioned once--
We usually think of freedom in terms of being out from under authority. When no one is telling me what to do and I am free to do whatever I want-that's freedom. But is it-- What would you rather have-the freedom to do as you please, or to be under the authority of someone who would lead you to a far better place than you would lead yourself--
Usually, I conclude each podcast with an application for how to put the principles from that day's message into practice in practical ways. I'm not going to do that today. Today's episode is just a description of one of the attributes of Christ-his awesome authority as presented by the gospel of Mark. The way to listen to this one is to just sit back, listen, and worship.
If God wants us to believe, and he wants us to have rock solid confidence in his Word, then why doesn't he reveal himself in more obvious ways-- Why not just appear in the sky and speak to us audibly-- If he wants us to believe, why make it hard to believe--
Have you ever felt like God banished you to the desert-a dry and weary existence without any thriving or renewal-- In times like that, you read in the Bible that God loves you, but you're tempted to say, -If this is love, who needs enemies--- If you've felt that, you're not alone. God once drove his own Son out into the desert.
Over and over the Bible says, -God loves you.- Every Christians knows that, but what do you do about those times when what you are receiving from God feels like the opposite of love--
When the other Gospels describe Jesus baptism, they say the heavens opened. When Mark describes it he says the heavens were ripped open. And that word for being ripped or torn is loaded with meaning.
Did you know that today you could do something that the greatest man who ever lived up to his time longed to do but couldn't because he was unworthy--
If God wants us to believe, and he wants us to have rock solid confidence in his Word, then why doesn't he reveal himself in more obvious ways-- Why not just appear in the sky and speak to us audibly-- If he wants us to believe, why make it hard to believe--
For today, the topic is flourishing. When your life dries up-you lose motivation, not much joy, you feel like you're in a desert, how do you get back to a thriving, flourishing fullness of life--
There's one of the spiritual gifts that is probably the most common gift of all. My guess is more Christians have this spiritual gift than any other gift. And yet, if you have this gift, chances are, you don't know what your spiritual gift is.--Today is part 2 of our brief look at the author of the Gospel of Mark-a man who wasn't an Apostle, wasn't an eye witness of the resurrection, and yet God choose him to write what was probably the first gospel. Why-- He had this spiritual gift.
There are some mistakes you make that can be fixed. There are others that caused such a mess that you can't even imagine how things could be restored. Today we're going to see into the heart of God on this topic of restoration.
The reason you are on this earth is to bring glory to God. Can you accomplish that simply by uttering a 2-syllabal word-- Yes-
What would it take for you to get to the end of your life and say, -My life was a success--- You're not going to achieve everything you wish you could achieve. But what would you have to achieve to be satisfied that, overall, your life was a success--
Have you ever thought about what it means to glorify God-- Isn't God already as glorious as he can be-- How can we give him glory--
Of all the reasons you might put money in the offering, it seems like the least admirable would be giving to get. But what does the Bible say about the role reward should play in our motivations--
The Philippians gave a huge financial gift to Paul even though they were poor. God was very pleased with that and really made it worth their while. What did God give them to repay them-- Multiple things. Today we'll look at one that most of us are also receiving, but we're oblivious to it.
God is always incredibly generous with us every day. But did you know there is something you can do to trigger that attribute so that he's even more generous with you--
Did you know that some people write checks and put them in the offering plate at church every week, and God finds that worship unacceptable-- He rejects their worship-- Could it be that God is rejecting your worship-- What makes worship through giving pleasing to God or displeasing-- God's going to answer that question for us today in Philippians 4-18.
High inflation is decreasing the value of all your savings, they try to fix it by raising interest rates that tank the stock market and depress real estate markets and any kind of investments that involve financing, and wages are not keeping up. Where can you go for an investment that will pay off-- Today we'll look at a sure thing.
Paul closes out the book of Philippians with a section on giving. Today we're going to see how you can greatly improve your giving without taking a single extra dollar out of your wallet. You can improve your giving by adding an extra ingredient to the money you already give that will make your gift far better and more effective.
If we could see a video of ourselves the way we talk to the people closest to us-the people we claim to love most, we would very often be ashamed to see the lack of basic kindness and respect. How can you change that-- You can change it by learning from someone who has a great attitude toward others, and you're going to be shocked when you hear who it is.
Have you ever had someone assume you were doing something out of bad motives when you really had good motives, but they wouldn't believe you-- Assuming bad motives is a very unloving thing to do. Assuming good motives is a tremendously loving thing to do. And not only loving, but it's something you can do to change the people close to you for the better.
In Philippians 4-10, Paul says, -I rejoice greatly in the Lord that at last you have renewed your concern for me.- They sent him a gift, and he was ecstatic. And so he wrote to them and told them how happy he was about it. We hear a lot about how love must be sacrificial-you give up what you prefer for someone else's benefit. That is something love does. But not every act of love is like that. Today Paul shows us how sometimes the most loving thing you can do is to enjoy a gift.
Of all the things you experience today, one of them will be the hardest of the day. You don't know what that will be yet, but whatever it ends up being, would it be possible for you to feel contentment in that moment--
When we read in Philippians 4, -I can do all things through him who strengthens me,- what does that mean-- You can't jump over the moon. There's all kinds of things you can't do-that Jesus won't strengthen you to do no matter how much you ask him. So what does that verse mean-- Is it just a meaningless pep talk-- Or is it literally true--
In previous episodes, we've established the emense value of contentment. It will make you the richest person around because you'll be the only person with enough money and enough of everything else. Today we find out how to get it.
How much of the joy in your life comes from the fact that you have learned contentment-- And what would it take for you to have greater contentment than what you have now--
What is that thing in your life that keeps stealing your joy-- That thing in your life that just gives you a nagging unhappiness every time you think about it. Maybe it's the way you look. Maybe it's something about your finances, your job, your marriage, your health, education. If you're like most people you have at least one thing that, every time it comes to mind, it just throws a bucket of cold water on the fires of your happiness. You just wish in that area your lot in life were different. And you don't just wish that, but you wish it with a kind of wishing that hurts - like an ache in your soul. What is it for you-- Some people can't answer that question. They feel the ache - something isn't right. Something is making them unhappy, but they can't really put their finger on what it is. They just feel kind of empty, unfulfilled, blah. Whether you're someone who can easily point to one thing and say, -That's what is hindering my joy,- - or you're a person who is just kind of stuck in a generalized, undefined joylessness, today's passage is going to show you the way out of that.
One of the biggest culprits for causing anxiety in our lives is unfulfilled desire. You really want something and you don't get it, or you fear you might not get it-and that causes inner turmoil. What's the solution-- Weaker desires-- No desire-- In today's podcast, God is going to show us how to have strong desires and inner peace and joy right alongside those desires, even when the desires are unfulfilled.
In the Sound of Music, Julie Andrews sang about raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens as a few of her favorite things. If you wrote a song like that, what would be at the top of your list of favorite things in this world-- That list could be a threat to your relationship with God, or it could strengthen your worship.
Philippians 4-9 says if you put what you've learned from the Word of God into practice, the God of peace will be with you. What would it look like for the God of peace to be with you in a greater way today than he was yesterday--
Yesterday I mentioned to someone that I used to be a pastor and he immediately asked me if I thought we were in the end times. People ask that a lot in times when there are a lot of wars and chaos and major catastrophes. But when Jesus preached about the end times, he said when there are wars and rumors of wars, don't be alarmed because that's not the end. Did you know Scripture points to certain activities of the Church-good activities-as being indicators of the nearness of the end-- In fact, we can even do things to make the end come sooner.
The Apostle Paul -and countless others- were willing to suffer torture and even sacrifice their lives to bring the truth of God's Word to you. The only reason you have it is because of what those people did. And we can understand that when it comes to the parts of Scripture that talk about how to become saved. It's worth it to sacrifice everything so that people could go to heaven instead of hell.
On a scale from one to ten, how edifying would you say your speech is most of the time-- Ephesians 4 calls us to speak only what builds people up. Today is part 4 in our little miniseries on what Proverbs teaches about how to handle conflicts.
Today is part 3 of our survey of what the book of Proverbs teaches about handling conflict. If you missed the first two, just dial up the last couple episodes. Today's podcast is an important one. It's about how to win the person instead of the argument.
We're working through a quick survey of what the book of Proverbs teaches about handling conflict. We covered the first principle on the previous podcast. That was about not being wise in your own eyes. If you missed that one, I'd urge you to go back and give it a listen because we covered some important principles. Today, we'll pick it up with principle -2.
You probably think of yourself as a reasonable person. Does God's Word agree with you-- Today we take a close look at how the book of Proverbs describes a truly wise, reasonable person. Let's see how we measure up.
No one can avoid the hardships of life. Painful things are going to happen to you. But sometimes they happen and you can handle it. Other times, they get you down. How can you maintain joy even when the worst things happen--
In Ecclesiastes it says there is a time to sing and a time to weep-a time for joy and a time for sadness. How do we reconcile that with the command Paul gives in Philippians 4-Rejoice in the Lord always--
We often think we would be happy if we just had peace in our relationships. If we just didn't have all this fighting and conflict, then we'd be happy. In today's passage we're going to find - that's backwards.
If you're a Christian, you pay attention to issues of morality-you strive for honesty, integrity, purity, and so on. When you think of the various virtues you're striving for, issues of morality, would you put happiness on that list--
When a couple is really in love, why do they so say it so frequently-- They said it yesterday, nothing's changed, why repeat it again today-- There are more reasons for expressing love verbally than just informing them of a fact.
Have you ever overheard someone talking about you behind your back an they were saying something - really nice-- Feels good, doesn't it-- That feels even better than if they say it to you directly sometimes. The power we have in our tongues to build people up is amazing. Are you using that power--
Are there two people in your life who are at odds with each other-- It's your job to help them reconcile. In today's passage, we'll see a crucial principle for doing that that you may not have thought of before.
In the movies, if someone says, -You need to get help,- that usually means, -Your life is so messed up, and you have failed so royally in your efforts to get yourself on track, you need professional help.- So if someone close to you came and said, -You need to get help,- you might be insulted. But the truth is, no matter how well you're doing, the Bible is very clear. You DO need help.
When two people are at odds and you want to step in and help reconcile them, what exactly is your goal-- At the beginning of Philippians 4 we learn from Paul's example how to bring waring parties together.
What do you do when you have strong disagreements with someone at church-- That can tear a church family apart or it can solidify church unity depending on how you handle it. In the last podcast we found that we don't have to adopt the same opinions, as long as we have the right attitude. In today's episode, we'll look a little deeper into what that attitude looks like.
Not many problems in life cause more intense anxiety than broken relationships. Today we begin a passage with pricless instruction on how to handle that.
In 1 Corinthians 15, Paul says trying to imagine what your resurrected body will be like is like trying to figure out what a tree will look like by examining the seed. It can't be done. But what can be done is imagine the things God has revealed about what it will be like. Let's do that today.
How often do you think about the Second Coming-- Does your knowledge of end times have an impact on your daily life--
Philippians 3-20 says that if you know Christ, your citizenship is in heaven. What practical difference should that information make in the way you live your life today-- It may be more than you think-especially when it comes to your anxiety level.
Are you disgusted by the people in our culture who oppose the Cross of Christ and live in unrepentant, blatant immorality, flaunting their disobedience in God's face-- It's good to be indignant over that. But it's also important that right alongside that indignation, we have compassion, so that when we confront those people, we do it with tears.
Can you imagine if Jesus appeared to you and told you that you're doing something in your life that is making you an enemy of the cross-- You're undermining the work he accomplished in the way you're living. That's the shocking language Paul uses in Philippians 3 to describe a group of people in the Philippian church.
Is there a part of your Christian life where you're really struggling, where you'd love to make a lot more progress than you've made so far-- Can you name one person in the church who does especially well in that area-- If not, you may be missing out on an invaluable tool for spiritual growth. And you may be disobeying the command in Philippians 3-17.
Philippians 3-16 promises if you live up to what you already know from Scripture, God will make more spiritual truth clear to you-things that aren't clear now. But first you to sync up your life with your Bible knowledge. Is there any part of your life that is out of sync with what you claim to believe--
God is going to speak to you today. He's going to guide you and make some things clear to you. The only question is, will you appreciate what's happening or assume it's just due to your own intelligence--
Do you have any moments in your past that fill you with embarrassment and regret every time you remember them because you did or said something that revealed immaturity and you would give anything if you could just have a do-over-- Wouldn't it be great to have greater maturity than what you have now-- What are the keys to gaining more spiritual maturity--
The Christian life is a race. And we're all running it with with ropes tied to us dragging a bunch of heavy baggage. Today we'll learn how to cut those ropes.
What is your -1 priority in life-- How about -2-- What if I told you the whole concept of priorities is misguided--
Paul knew if he died he would go to heaven. He says that in Philippians 1. But in Philippians 3, he says he's straining and pressing on to win the prize for which he was called heavenward so that he could somehow attain to the resurrection from the dead. If he was so sure of his salvation, why all the striving--
We've been studying Philippians 3-10-11 where Paul talks about what it means to really know Christ. He says, -I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death.- And then he adds this- -and so, somehow, to attain to the resurrection from the dead.- Why does he say -somehow---
How would your life be different if you handled suffering better-- What is the right way to handle it-- In today's passage we'll see that every single time you suffer, it's an opportunity to join with Christ in the most important work in the universe.
The Bible promises Christians access to supernatural power. So why is it that we so often seem powerless in our spiritual battles-- How do you gain enough spiritual power to actually have victories in areas where in the past you've had nothing but defeat--
Of all the people you know, which one do you know the best-- And what is it about your knowledge of that person that's different from your knowledge of other people-- And how does it compare to your knowledge of Jesus Christ--
If someone walked up to you and said, -What must I do to be saved-- Can you explain it to me--- would you be able to give a clear explanation-- The Bible never says you're saved by inviting Jesus into your heart. Or by praying any particular prayer. How exactly does the gospel work-- If you're investigating Christianity and want to know how it's different from other religions, or if you want the whole thing summed up in 15 minutes so you can clearly explain it to someone else, today's episode is for you.
Jesus said if you don't give up everything you have, you cannot be his disciple. So why is it that Christians still own things--
It would be understandable if the Bible said none of our good works are good enough to make us deserve heaven. We could picture God saying, -I appreciate the effort, you've done some good things, but they aren't quite good enough.- That would make sense. But it isn't what the Bible says. What it really says is that every good deed we ever do to earn favor with God is disgusting and filthy and detestable to God. The more good deeds you do to be right with him, the more it alienates you from him. Why is that--
Why is it that sometimes you do things that are really difficult, hard work, but it's not draining-- And other things you have to do feel burdensome even though they aren't even all that hard-- What is it that makes work burdensome-- That's important to know because the things that feel burensome to you and the things that don't can be indications of your eternal destiny.
We all know that bragging is a bad thing. But Scripture often speaks of boasting as a good thing. What is the New Testament talking about when it uses this word -boast- so often-- It's crucial that we understand it because it's right at the core of the gospel.
In Philippians 3, Paul condemns people who try to serve God in the flesh and says the true people of God are those who serve God by the Spirit. But how is that done, exactly--
Homosexual activists will often criticize Christians for being inconsistent in the way we interpret the Bible. They say, -You point to verses in the Old Testament against homosexuality, but you ignore other verses in the Old Testament, like the ones that say we should stone homosexuals to death. How can you justify that kind of picking and choosing---Are we guilty of picking and choosing-- We honor verses that say to love God with all your heart, but not verses that say we shouldn't wear clothes with two kinds of fabric. How do we discern which commands to obey and which don't apply--
If someone asked you to summarize the message of the whole Bible in 10 minutes, what would you say-- Do you know how all the parts of the Old Testament and New Testament fit into the overall message--
If someone broke in and was threatening your family, you'd do something about it. If there were a lethal airborn virus, you'd avoid the area. When the roads are icy, you slow down. But what if you discovered there is something threatening your connection to the Lord Jesus Christ right now--
The vast majority of the people in the world want to be good, but their method for becoming a good person only makes them a worse person. That's true of both religious and secular people. What's your method for becoming a better person--
Acts 11-22 says Barnabas was a good man. What about you-- Are you a good person-- Most people would answer yes to that, but people's definitions of what makes someone good are all over the map. The only definition that matters is God's. We'll look at that today, and you might be surprised how much joy has to do with how good of a person you are.
Have you ever heard that saying, -Life is hard, and then you die--- Life is hard, a lot of the time, and it's easy other times. For the Christian, it's full of God's blessings all the time. We often talk about blessings we experience in life, but have you given much thought to what a blessing life itself is-- Just the fact that you're breathing today--
Do you want to be a kind person-- What is kindness-- We naturally think of an act of kindness in very temporal, naturalistic terms-giving someone some money or a physical gift. Or some kind of assistance that makes their life easier or more pleasant. But there are acts of kindness that are infinitely more valuable than those. Today we'll see the ultimate kindness. And it's something you could show someone today.
Do you want to be a kind person-- What is kindness-- We naturally think of an act of kindness in very temporal, naturalistic terms-giving someone some money or a physical gift. Or some kind of assistance that makes their life easier or more pleasant. But there are acts of kindness that are infinitely more valuable than those. Today we'll see the ultimate kindness. And it's something you could show someone today.
Do you think your friends and family would describe you as being risk averse-- And if so, is that a good thing or a bad thing-- The truth is, we're all risk averse. It's why you don't drive the wrong way down the interstate or swallow some pills you found in the gutter. It's stupid to take unnecessary risk. But usually when people use the term -risk averse- they're talking about people who are so shy about taking any risk that it keeps them from doing important things. Where do you draw the lines of risk in your life--
In Philippians 2-29 we are commanded to honor people like Epaphroditus. Are you obeying that command-- Who are the people you honor-- And how do you express that honor--
If you ever track Timothy's life through the New Testament, you'll see he was an amazing man of impeccable character. Paul said there was no one like him. How did Timothy get that way-- Same way you and I can get there.
Jesus said the worries of this life can choke out the work of his Word in your life. Which of this life's worries threatens to have that effect on you today--
In Philippians 2, Paul tells the Philippians he plans to send Timothy to them to help them with their spiritual problems, and he says, -It has to be Timothy. He's the only one I can send because everyone else is worried about their own issues. Timothy is the only one who will have enough anxiety about your wellbeing. Timothy's chief qualification was anxiety. Today we're going to see how following his example can lead us into deeper intimacy with Christ.
Today's passage forces us to consider a very poignant question. Does your presence in your church make that church better--
One of Paul's great aspirations in life was to be a drink offering. And his wish came true. And if you play your cards right, it can come true for you too.
In Philippians 2, Paul says the Philippian congregation was like a sacrifice, and Paul's ministry was like a drink offering. And that comparison has a whole lot of significance for you this coming Sunday.
When Christmas time rolls around sometimes gift giving in a wealthy culture can be difficult. What do you give someone who already has everything they need-- It's an even bigger question when you apply it to God. What could you possibly give God-- He literally has everything. You would think it would be impossible but God has actually created a way for us to do it. Everything he has called a sacrifice in the New Testament is guaranteed to be pleasing to him if you offer it with a heart of worship.
Scripture commands us in Romans 12 to never be lacking in zeal but to keep our spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. What if you don't have that fervor and zeal-- How do you get it-- One way is to consider the eternal significance of your role in the kingdom of God.
Not long ago I spoke with an old high school friend who was dying of cancer. I hadn't seen him in many years, and we were catching up. He told me, -I worked this job for a while, then I did this, then I did this job- and he added, -That was a wasted decade.- -I don't know if you have a full decade in your life that you feel like you squandered. Some people feel like they've wasted their who life. How can you make sure, when you get to your death bed and someone asks you about your life, you'll be able to say, -Well, I certainly didn't waste it---
Last time we learned that our job in this life is to get ourselves and the people around us ready for Judgment Day. But how are you supposed to do that-- You can force someone to have faith in God. It's true you can't force faith, but you can grow it like a seed in a garden if you use the right tools. Today we'll discover what those tools are.
Imagine God appeared to you right now and said, -I want you to spend the day getting your friends and family ready for Judgment Day.- What would you do--
2 Corinthians 10-5 teaches us to demolish arguments. But Philippians 2-14 says to do everything without arguing. What's the difference between demolishing arguments and arguing--
What are the first thoughts that come into your mind when something hurts you-something that was preventable-- The natural response will harm your soul. But there is a response that will strengthen your soul and the souls of the people around you.
Going through this life is like going down a river treading water, trying to stay above the surface. Thoughts of discontent or grumbling are like tying weights on your body. They pull you down. But there's something else you can do that will lift you up, right out of the water so you rise above the river. Above the chaos of life. Your life can be like that today.
What is the most fundamental difference between Christians and unbelievers-- The answer from Philippians 2-14-15 might be the last thing you would think of.-The sermon excerpt for today is from a message I preached in 2016, so the illustrations about our depraved culture are already out of date. Things have gotten a lot worse over the last 7 years, especially with the mutilation and abuse of children by doctors and parents in the name of transgenderism. But that only makes the truths of today's passage all the more poignant.
The topic of today's podcast is a miracle cure. It will not only solve the problem of self-pity and grumbling, but it will solve a hundred other problems in your life. It will improve your physical health, your emotional and psychological wellbeing, and, in dramatic ways, it will improve your spiritual health and your relationship with God.
We all have our different ways of responding to irritations. One of the most common is anger. What do you do if you find little bursts of rage coming out of nowhere when some little thing goes wrong--
Even though God has made it clear how much he hates grumbling, we all still do it. And many times without a trace of remorse or conscience. And our grumbling takes one of three forms-negativity, self-pity, or hostility. In today's podcast, we'll see God's remedy.
Have you ever heard of a scandal where someone in the church, maybe even a church leader got caught complaining-- Grumbling-- I know you've heard people do it, but it's never considered a scandal. Why is that-- Is it because the Bible treats it as a small matter--
1- Are there any other passages besides the one you read supporting the free will side of the sovereignty-free will paradox---2- How do you make progress in utilizing the power of God instead of using your own strength---3- What's the difference between the good kind of putting forth effort for the Christian life and legalism-- What's the definition of legalism---4- Does God's will always happen---5- Is it really important for us to sort out this paradox of free will and God's sovereignty--
One of David's mighty men of valor once killed 800 Philistines in a single battle using his spear. How is that possible-- And what are the implications for when you're overwhelmed with problems in your life--
If you have any doubts about the affection God feels toward you, even when you sin against him, don't miss today's episode. But what if you do understand God's love-- You understand it so much, you have a hard time fearing God-- If that's you, don't miss today's episode.
How many times a day do you fall short of what God commands-- And when you do, how does God feel toward you-- The way you answer that question is hugely important for your relationship with God.
What do you do when you're told to move a mountain-- You don't grab a shovel and a wheelbarrow. That would be silly. But you don't do nothing either. What's the best approach to mountain moving--
1- How can you know for sure what God is doing in your heart if the heart is deceitful-- -2- Is it a good thing for unbelievers to try to obey God---3- Why would those who believe in the perseverance of the saints have any reason to obey with fear and trembling--
Today we continue our discussion of Philippians 2-12-13, which says we must carry out the Christian life with fear and trembling because of the fact that it is God who is working in us. And we'll look at this question-if it's God who does the work, does that mean it's guaranteed to get done, regardless of what you do--
Philippians 2-13 says that because God is at work in you to will and to act, you should work out your salvation with fear and trembling. Why the fear and trembling--
If God spoke to you right now and said, -I want you to perform your salvation. Right now-go.- What would you do--
Philippians 2-12 says it is God who works in you to will and to act. Is God doing that work right now, in this moment-- If so, what does that work involve-- And what does God want you to do with the work he's doing in you--
If the fruit of the Spirit is borne in your life, who did that-- God did, right-- If you sin, who did that-- Not God. So at what point does God begin acting, and what is my role when he does--
1- Why did you say it's impossible to be humble before God without being humble before people---2- Why did you say Jesus is the only being in the world with two natures-- Don't we also have two natures--a sin nature and a new nature---3- How do you know if you are in your -sweet spot---the place where you were made to be, if it doesn't feel like you're getting any traction in life---4- What if you have two options that are both righteous-- Which is the sweet spot---5- Is it possible to accept Jesus as Savior but not as Lord--
Sometimes, the more famous the Bible verse, the more prone we are to miss the point of it. We all know Philippians 2-9-11. -Therefore God exalted him to the highest place - every knee will bow, every tongue confess.- But what's the purpose of that passage-- Jesus is exalted, therefore - what--
In Philippians 2 it says God exalted Jesus to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name. God the Father exalted him. But did it ever occur to you that you have a role in the exaltation of Christ--
Can you think of something dumb that you did when you were young because you didn't have a good grasp of cause an effect-- You didn't think through the consequences, so you went ahead and did it, and the consequences ended up being pretty severe-- If you've raised any teenagers, chances are you can think of examples in their lives. But now you're older and you have more awareness of the effects of your actions, right-- But what about spiritual causes and effects-- Are you alert to those--
If you're a Christian, then you are resolved to obey God no matter what the cost. But what about those times when the cost of obeying God seems so high, you just can't seem to bring yourself to do it--
When you hit the sweet spot, whether it be with a tennis racket, golf club, baseball bat-when you connect right where it's supposed to be, it feels so good. It feels even better when you hit your sweet spot in life, doing that thing you were designed for. You get so much more traction in life, so much better results. What is that sweet spot for you--
Toward the later chapters of the book of Job, Job started demanding that God speak to him. Finally, God did. But it wasn't quite the experience Job had in mind. He thought he would get to question God- instead, God questioned him. He answered Job out of the storm and said- -Brace yourself like a man- I will question you, and you shall answer me.- Can you imagine if God said that to you, today, and with a frown on his face--
1- When is it wrong to make it known what you have given up to serve someone---2- When you pray for God to make you humble, are you praying for suffering---3- The Bible says God does whatever pleases him. So how do we reconcile that with the fact that God ordains suffering-- Is God pleased to allow us to suffer--
If you lost all your wealth tomorrow, so you had to live out the rest of your life in extreme poverty, what would that do to your happiness--
Is it wrong to try to make people think well of you-- Not necessarily. Isn't it better to brush your hair in the morning instead of walking around looking ridiculous-- So where do we cross the line into sinful pride and self-promotion--
1- Does non-physical suffering count as suffering for Christ---2- Is the suffering of Jesus on the cross a picture of what it will be like for people in hell who will be forsaken by God---3- Where do you draw the line between being a humble servant and being a doormat---4- Did Jesus descend into hell while he was in the tomb--
In Philippians 3-10 Paul said, -I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings.- We can all relate to the first two-wanting to know Christ and the power of his resurrection. Amen to that. But why did Paul have a longing to share in Christ's sufferings--
If you're a Christian, nothing you possess is more valuable than your faith because that's your only connection to God's grace. So it's crucial that you guard your faith with everything you've got. So what do you do when doubts creep in and threaten to weaken your faith--
Fear is a part of everyone's daily existence. It keeps you from doing dumb things, but it can also prevent you from doing good things. A lot of our fear we don't even notice because it just comes in the form of an anxiety response in our bodies. But when does fear cross the line into cowardice--
When you get angry and someone asks you, -What made you mad-- you will probably point to something that happened to you-something someone did, a loss, a mishap-something that created a hardship for you.--But that thing that happened did not make you angry. That anger came from somewhere else. Today we're going to find out where.
1- When James wrote about the word of truth, the New Testament wasn't written yet, so is that included--2- Is it ever appropriate to speak to the Devil--3- Why does God say bringing hardship is not from God's heart- If it's a good thing he's doing, isn't that from his heart--4- Why is it so hard to believe God really wants us to give us good gifts-
What does it mean that God is unchangeable- Or if you like the seminary word-immutable. We know there is a sense in which God does change. He was angry with us before we were in Christ, and now he loves us as his children-that's a big change. There are countless ways in which God does change, so what is James getting at in James 1-17 when he talks about God not being changeable- -It's talking about God's reliability. Think for a moment about times in your life when you relied on someone or something that proved to be unreliable. That's no fun, right- We need to be able to count on some things. What if sometimes the ground was there for you and other times it wasn't- Or sometimes gravity worked and other times it went to sleep- Life would be impossible. --Today James is going to show us one of the most wonderful ways in which God is utterly, completely trustworthy.
You know how sometimes you force yourself to do things you don't really feel like doing, and other times you just do whatever feels good- What would happen right now if God did whatever he felt like doing- We know from Scripture there are some things he does that he doesn't like doing. We read about that in Lamentations 3-33. So what does God feel like doing- We'll find out today from James 1-18.
We're studying James 1-17,18 about how to overcome sin in your life, and we found that it's all about looking up-keeping your attention fixed on God and understanding what he's really like. That's the key to living the Christian life.--So far we've examined God's generosity and power. Today we'll look at a third attribute- God as the source of life. If we want to overcome sin, we need to understand what true life really is, and what tool God uses to deliver that life to us.
Is it possible for God to give you a gift and for you to enjoy it, and yet the gift is still wasted because you missed the meaning- Today we're going to explore how to not only enjoy God's gifts, but to also interpret the meaning behind them.
Nothing will cause you more trouble and do more damage to you than having a wrong conception of what God is like. The most important thing in the world is to love him, and nothing hinders that more than wrong ideas about what he's like. There's no wrong idea about God that could ever make you love him more, because he's perfect. So any false idea about him makes him seem less than perfect. Today, James is going to improve the accuracy of our conception of God.
If you love God, then you have a strong desire to overcome sin in your life. As Christians, we are always at war with our own sin. But so often we shoot ourselves in the foot in that war. Instead of fighting the enemy, we do things that weaken our own position. And we do it by strengthening the very desires the enemy uses to destroy us.
1- Why isn't the pain of regret and consequences enough to free me from an enslaving sin--2- What is the role of the Holy Spirit in resisting temptation--3- How do you undeceive the attitude that says, -I'll sin now and repent later---4- 54-04-55-50 mover this to the end of question 1-5- How can you use fellowship with God to reduce the strength of temptation--6- What if you haven't had experiences of fellowship with God that are strong enough to be more desirable than sin--7- Where is the line where a good gift turns into sin--8- What's the difference between a need and a want--9- Can the goal of changing my behavior itself become an idol- -10- Is it always okay to want one of God's gifts as long as that desire is a lower priority than your desire for God--11- How do you discern God's guidance in hard decisions--12- What if your job is harming your family, but you need the work and there is no other job available-
One of the biggest reasons why our desires become disordered and lead us toward death instead of life is that they become deceived about the nature of good gifts. Life is a quest for that which is good-life and good days. And if you're confused about what will produce that in your life, your desires will become hopelessly mixed up.
If you just throw a hook in the water without any bait, the fish won't bite on it. They aren't super-intelligent animals, but even a fish knows better than to bite down on a bare hook. That's why so much of Scripture is devoted to exposing the hooks behind our temptations. If you want to change your deceived desires, one way to do that is to see past the bait to the hook.
Are your desires helping you or hurting you- Desire is a gift from God designed to help us, but when they become deceived, they can sabotage us.
Our desires should be our friend. When they are functioning correctly, desires make it a million times easier to do the right thing. But when a desire gets deceived and mixed up about what will satisfy it, that's when they become our enemy.--In today's episode, we'll explore how that happens. What causes a desire to become deceived-
The reason you sin is not desire. Jesus desired food but didn't fall when tempted with food. The problem is deceived desire. Today and in the next few episodes, we're going to learn what a deceived desire is, how it gets that way, and how to fix it.
Why did Judas sell out the man he had left everything to follow- Surely it must have been more than just the money, right- Jesus has been preparing us for the answer to that question throughout the whole book of Mark.
1- Which kind of bait is the issue for people with an anger problem--2- You said the brain can't cause sin. But what about people with severe mental disorders or physical brain damage, hallucinations, etc.- -3- What's the difference between the approach in this sermon and the -try harder- method of sanctification- -4- How do you help a person consumed with self-pity over troubles in their life that is their own doing--5- If all my sin originates in my heart, does that mean people who create temptations for me have no culpability- -6- The Bible says believers have a new nature. How do we reconcile that with the existence of ongoing sinful desires--7- Where did evil come from--8- How is the true doctrine about God different from pantheism- -9- When would it be wrong to desire a new car- And when would it be okay--10- How can we see the James 1 description of how temptation works in the temptations of Jesus--11- Is it accurate to say Satan is the father of our sinful desires-
If someone walked up to you right now and tried to entice you to rob a bank, chances are you would have no trouble at all resisting that temptation. And I could list a hundred other examples of temptations that work on other people but wouldn't effect you in the slightest. But there are certain temptations that do get you. Why is your heart responsive to those and not others- And how can you change that-
There are limitations on how much you're able to accomplish in life, and one of the biggest ones is entirely in your control. It's simply this- how much pain or discomfort are you willing to endure- The number one things that prevents us from doing great things is our fear of discomfort.--Just think of the things you could accomplish if you could just reduce that- And not only could you accomplish things, but you would greatly increase your defenses against sin in your life. --When I became an adult, got married, and had kids, I realized part of being an adult is willingness to suffer. There are things I would have shied away from when I was a boy, but now I just have to take a deep breath, roll up my sleaves, and just be a man. --If we can learn to do that when we face temptation, our margin of victory would increase exponentially.
Imagine someone with a fatal disease-a disease that's fatal if it's not treated, but there is a medicine that can cure it. This guy catches the disease and goes to the doctor. The symptoms of this disease are a dry cough, loss of eyesight, and loss of hearing.--The guy has all the symptoms, but when he walks into the doctor's office and the doctor asks him about his cough, he says, -Oh, that wasn't me. What you heard out in the waiting room, that was some other guy.- When he can't see the eye chart he says, -My eyesight is fine. It's just windy outside and some dust blew into my eyes right before I came in. And on the hearing test, he watches the doctor's finger on the button so he knows when to raise his hand.--You would say that man is a fool, right- He could walk out of there perfectly healthy if he would just admit he has the disease and take the medicine. But he can't bring himself to admit it, and that costs him his life.--We are exactly like that man every time we shift blame to cover for our sin.
Philippians 2-13 says God works in us to will and to act, but if that's the case, why do we will and act in evil ways so often- If God is applying pressure on my heart in a good direction, what force is pulling it the other direction so hard that I end up going that direction--One of the most important steps in fighting against sin in our lives is understanding where that sin comes from. We're going to find out today what the source is, and it might surprise you.
At the moment when you're tempted to sin, exactly what is happening inside your heart- And what is God's role in that- What is God doing in that moment- Is it accurate to say God plays no role at all- He just stands by and watches to see what you do- Or is he acting on your heart in some way- What does the Bible say-
A few days ago we talked about what it means that God will give us life if we pass the test. -That was last Thursday's podcast - Feb.24-. That promise of life is one of the most delightful concepts in all of Scripture. But why does he call it a crown of life instead of just life- Does that mean you'll be walking around heaven with a hat that says, -life- on the front- -No. The concept of a crown takes an already delightful truth and makes it even better. God intends for that language to make you desire it all the more.
Hardships are a test. But a test of what- What is it, exactly, that God is testing- When you take an exam in school, it's to test your knowledge. You might put stress on some building material to test it for strength. A doctor might run some tests on your blood to see if you have cancer. What is it that God is testing today when you get yelled at by your boss or get a bad headache or lose your cell phone-
What would you think if you woke up in the morning and God put a note on your mirror that said, -Today will be a test-- What effect would that have on the way you approached your day---And then suppose around noon he left you another note that said, -If you pass the test, come tomorrow morning I'm going to reward you in ways that will blow your mind---Whatever effect that would have on you-that's the effect God wants today's passage to have on you when you read it.
God promises life to those who love him. You think you're alive already, but real life is something far beyond anything any of us have ever experienced.--But to get that life, we must love God. In today's episode, we'll take a careful look of exactly how that works.
1- If we are to boast in our weaknesses, what is our motivation to shore up those weaknesses- -2- How do you deal with feelings of self-loathing- -3- What role does gentleness play in the good kind of boasting- What if you have a naturally boisterous personality- -4- Is James calling us to be proud of our humility-
Jesus said it's next to impossible for a rich person to enter the kingdom of God. Paul warned us that the desire to be rich is trap that will lead to many foolish and harmful desires that plunge you into ruin and destruction and pierce you with many griefs. What is it about wealth that is so incredibly dangerous- And if God has blessed you with wealth, how do you enjoy it without succumbing to those dangers-
In today's passage, James talks about something he calls the -face of beauty- being destroyed. What are the faces of beauty in your life-the things about you that are attractive or impressive or that are above average in some way- --James says there is a lot of value in realizing that whatever your face of beauty are, they will soon be destroyed.
The things you value most are what dictate the direction of your life, because all your decision-making will push in the direction of those things. One of the most valuable things you could ever pursue is humility. The problem is, we don't naturally value humility anywhere nearly as high as we ought to. Today's episode will help you see the incalculable value of this essential virtue to help your heart gravitate toward the things that will being you more humility.
There are only two commands in James 1-9-11, and they are both the same- boast. James commands one group of people to boast, then he commands someone else to boast. That sounds strange to our ears because in English, boasting just means bragging, and there's nothing good about bragging. But the biblical word translated boast is something different. Every human being boasts in something, and the way you boast and the things you boast in will make all the difference in what direction your life goes.
We all have those areas in our lives where we feel like - losers. Maybe a failure, an area where you feel inept or ugly or less than what you should be. Most people respond by trying to feel good about themselves, but there's a better way. Feeling good about God feels better than feeling good about yourself. This message will help you see the value of your lowliness so you can rejoice in it.
When God gives you a -yes- answer to a prayer where you have asked for something, he very often still requires you to do something in order to receive the answer. When God says, -yes- to your prayer for wisdom, what do you have to do to receive that answer-
When we ask God for good gifts, he gives them to us. So why is it that we ask so often for wisdom and don't get more than we get- If wisdom is such a good thing, why wouldn't God give us more than he does- --James 1-5 If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. --But if that's true, given the number of times I've asked God for wisdom, I should be as wise as Solomon by now. Why do I still have as little wisdom as I have-
Why do so many people crash their cars because they fell asleep at the wheel- It's because sleep comes upon you so gradually that you don't realize when you're crossing the threshold from being awake to being asleep. It's the same spiritually. This message reveals six warning signs that you're starting to drift off into spiritual sleep.
Have you ever had someone who gives you gifts, but then they hold it against you if you're not properly thankful or if you don't respond the right way- People like that can make it so you'd really rather they not even give you the gift. --Whenever you receive a gift, the attitude of the person giving it can make all the difference. Have you ever thought about what God's attitude is with the gifts he gives you-
1- If salvation is dependent on faith, does that mean salvation is lost whenever we have a lapse in faith--2- How can one know for sure if he is saved--3- What do you do when you're so devastated that you don't even have the strength to open your Bible- -4- What if you're not the type to drop into self-pity- instead, you go the other way-into self-reliance--5- How do you reconcile the fact that Scripture calls us to rely totally on God, and yet also calls us to take action--6- How do you approach someone who thinks they are persevering through suffering, but they really aren't--7- How do you know if the trial is a test from God or something you brought upon yourself--8- What if your trials prove your faith is weak or nonexistent- Then what- -9- Are problems like depression always only spiritual- Or are there physical factors- And are any of them 100- physical, without any spiritual element-
There is a spiritual disease that can isolate you from God's blessings. If you get this disease, it will make it impossible for you to enjoy God's kindness no matter how much he blesses you. -Today we learn how to discover and cure that disease.
In the opening paragraph of James, he promises some amazing benefits that can come from trials, but they don't come automatically. It doesn't work unless you do your part. James says you must -let perseverance do its work.- But how do you do that- Did you do it yesterday- --In today's study, we'll examine what this means and exactly how to do it.
James 1-5 says the one who doubts should not think he will receive anything from the Lord.--That's a little scary. If you doubt, you won't receive anything from God- Wow. So what are you supposed to do with your doubts- If you have honest questions about something in the Bible, are you supposed to just set your intellect aside and blindly follow things whether they make sense or not- How do we deal with our doubts-
Have you ever imagined what it would be like if you got really sick or injured, and you knew you only had hours to live- And in those final hours, the thought comes into your mind, What if my faith isn't real- I thought I was saved, but what if I'm not---It would be nice if there were a machine that could scan your heart and give a clear reading on whether you had saving faith. And where there is faith, that could show how strong or weak that faith is.
1- Isn't it dangerous to be quick to listen and eager to be influenced by certain people--2- Aren't there times when, instead of listening we need to take action--3- Why do I find that I can be slow to anger for a long time, but then when it comes, it's out of control--4- Why did you make the claim that the whole book of James is about selfishness and pride--5- Does righteous anger bring about the righteousness of God--6- When we have righteous anger, is it okay to be glad to see the wicked punished--7- What if the other person is also a good listener and they ask about what's in your heart- How can you have a conversation--8- What if the person has shut the door to you, so you can't have a conversation with them-
Be honest-would it be any comfort to you if someone walked up to you, right when you were having a really hard time with something, and said, -Consider it pure joy--- --Many people would say, -Not only would that not comfort me, it would make me angry.---If that's the case, these words aren't really very helpful when you're suffering, why are they in the Bible-
We should consider hardships pure joy, not because we enjoy the hardships, but because those hardships can help us increase our perseverance. And if that doesn't fill you with joy, it's only because you don't understand the value of perseverance.--We looked last time at how miserable life gets when you lack perseverance. But that's not the worst part. I ended last time by telling you the worst part of not having perseverance has to do with our eternal destiny.
In today's study I'll be listing several examples of different ways people tend to fail to persevere-different ways to cave under the pressure of trials. It's different for everyone. I would urge you, as you listen, to pick out the one or two that tend to be the way it works in your life. Which of these ways of caving in do you need to be most on your guard against-
What if the things happening in your life right now are a test- How can you know for sure- And what does passing the test look like-
Are there some intruders in your life-unwelcome hardships that have broken into your life and are now causing problems for you- The way you define those hardships can make a night and day difference in how much joy you have to day-and whether those hardships accomplish their purpose in your life or not.-How would you define the word -hardship- or -trial--
James says to consider it pure joy when things go wrong. But does that apply to all hardships- What about problems that are your own fault- Or when God is chastising you- And how can you consider it pure joy when you know it's a bad thing-
Most people think their emotions are just things that happen to them. You can't do much about it-you just have to find a way to manage them. But that's not true. You can change them. Today we'll find out how.
Why aren't the books of the Bible in chronological order--2- Does the Bible teach that the church replaced Israel--3- What evidence do we have outside the Bible to corroborate the claims of the New Testament--4- Isn't it circular reasoning to use the Bible to prove the Bible--5- Why were the Jews of Jesus' time so reluctant to accept Jesus as the Messiah--6- When James says if you believe and don't doubt, you'll receive wisdom, is that the only requirement for answered prayer--7- What is Dispensationalism- -8- Was James written before or after the Jerusalem Council- -9- Were the twelve tribes in existence in Jesus' time-
One of the most powerful verses in the whole Bible to prove Christianity, strengthen your faith, and destroy doubt is James 1-1.
Believers are people who put Jesus' words into practice. But some Christians do that a lot more than others. So what are we to make of that- What does it mean for you if you obey less than others- Or more-
When Jesus said those who are saved are those who hear his words and put them into practice, isn't that a works-based salvation-
Jesus said your house is built on a solid foundation if you listen to his words and put them into practice. But no one puts Jesus' words into practice perfectly. So how much failure is too much- How successful do you need to be in obeying Christ's words before you can be sure your salvation is genuine-
1- Can you ever get to a point where you can't be deceived- -2- What if you love God's will, but still find yourself stuck in some sin--3- What about people who had a very moving conversion experience, but now they show no fruit--4- What if you turned to Christ just to avoid hell- Does that mean you're not saved--5- How can one recover from being self-deceived--6- How can you reach a person who is governed by emotionalism-
Most people believe they are on their way to heaven. But Jesus said most people are on their way to hell. And a whole lot of people who identify as Christians are in for a shock on judgment day.
Is it really a good thing for this woman to spend a whole year's wages on a single, momentary act of worship- And if so, why perfume- Wouldn't there be some more practical gifts that could be given with that amount of money-
What is the difference between following a rule so you don't get in trouble, and wanting to do that thing simply because someone you love loves that thing- Or disliking something because someone you love hates that thing- When you understand the difference between those two ways of living, you understand what it means to know God.
When Jesus shocks people on judgment day-people who devoted their lives to serving Jesus and find themselves being sent to hell-you might expect Jesus to say, -Depart from me, because you never knew me.- But instead, he says, -Depart from me because I never knew you.--Why does he focus on his lack of knowledge of them- And what are the implications for us- Are you absolutely certain that Jesus knows you in this sense-
In Genesis 18-25 Abraham gives God this awesome title- -the Judge of all the earth.- He says, -Will not the judge of all the earth do right---It really is a sobering way of thinking about God. One day God will pass eternal judgment on every human being who has ever lived. And that judgment will be final, unalterable, no appeals, no arguments, no purgatory-nothing but the eternal fate he sentences you to.-So is that something we as believers should fear- Obviously unbelievers should fear him as judge, but us- We're his children, aren't we--Yes, we are. And we love God with the intimacy of a child in his father's arms. He is our Father, but he is also our judge. -1 Peter 1-17 Since you call on a Father who judges each man's work impartially, live your lives as strangers here in reverent fear. -Should we fear God as our judge- Yes, even as we call on him as our Father. -As you listen to today's episode, try to allow the truths about God as our judge to stimulate feelings of awe and deeper reverence and, yes, fear of displeasing him.
The wolves look like sheep -sheep's clothing-, and yet we are told to spot them by their bad fruit. So they have sheep's clothing, but not good fruit. What is the difference between sheep's clothing and good fruit- How can we see through the sheep's clothing to the fruit---As you listen, try to pick out any of examples of bad fruit covered by sheep's clothing that might exist in your life.
There are some false teachers who have zero chance at fooling you. And yet they fool millions of others. It takes all types of deceivers to deceive all types of people.--So which kind of deceiver might be a threat to you-
Do you know where you're going in life- Most people either don't have an answer to that question, or if they do, their answer is not so much where they're going as much as where they would like to go or where they intend to go.--In today's study, we'll consider the unnerving question of where we are actually going in life.
What are the top 5 dangers you are concerned about in life- Does Jesus' -1 concern make it on your list-
The angels announced the birth of Christ in terms of peace among men. But the Christmas season is very often the time we have the least peace, with all the hustle and craziness of the holidays. Learn how to use the Christmas message to find real peace in your life.
Revelation 12 is the Christmas story told from the heavenly perspective. It's about how Satan tried to destroy Christ, and when God the Father protected him, Satan turned his anger against us. And John goes on to give instruction on how we fight him. We fight by the blood of the Lamb.--But what does that look like in practice- We're examining that question in Friday and today's episodes.
Why do people feel depressed after the holidays, or on the last day of a vacation, or crave more food even after they have eaten enough- The answer will turn that depression and emptiness into fullness and joy.
There are two Christmas stories in the Bible. We always focus on the earthly one that happened in Bethlehem. But there's another Christmas story that took place in the spiritual realm. It's described in Revelation 12.--If you missed yesterday's podcast, you'll want to give that a listen before listening to today's episode.
When you think of the characters in the nativity story, one very important character is usually forgotten about. The dragon.
A- What about people who try to find the narrow way and can't--B- Isn't hell just separation from God--C- If unbelievers are spiritually dead, how is it that they experience pangs of conscience- -D- Is it possible to know for sure that you're saved- If so, how--E- Why does Jesus tell us to make every effort to enter the kingdom if salvation is not by works-
No bit of information in the universe is more important for you than this- How can you receive eternal life- If you get the answer wrong, there couldn't possibly be worse consequences. And if you get it right, nothing better could ever happen to you.
Jesus promised that if we walk on the narrow road, it will take us in the direction of life. On Friday's podcast, we found that you could define life in terms of those things that are declining in a person who is in the process of dying. If you define life that way, and think of those things in spiritual terms-that's what spiritual life is. Let's dig in to that a little further today.
Jesus told us to keep watch for his coming, but what does that mean- Were you keeping watch yesterday-
Exactly what is spiritual life- What would be different in your life if you had more spiritual life today than you did yesterday-
How hard is it to become a Christian- And once you're saved, is the Christian life supposed to be hard or easy- Jesus called it a narrow, hard path, but then he said his yoke is easy and his burden is light. Which is it-
What do the religions of Barak Obama, George W Bush, and the pastors of several of the largest churches in America have in common-
What does it mean that we are under grace now and not law- Does that mean we are now free to disobey God if we want- No. It means we have a new way of obeying him-a more effective way. We do it by the power of the Holy Spirit when we trust in God's promises. -So what promise did God make that, if we trust it, it will enable us to keep the golden rule-
In today's podcast, we're going to explore a principle that, if we can get a handle on it, will guide all our decision making in a way that allows us to keep things in balance while always keeping our top priority on top where it belongs.
Can you finish this sentence- -Do to others what you would have them do to you because ----The first half of the sentence might be the most famous sentence in the whole Bible. But the second half has been so utterly ignored that more Christians don't even know what it is. And yet, the second half is crucial for obeying the first half.
Selfishness is normally the enemy of love. It's what prevents us from loving others as we should. But in today's passage, Jesus teaches us how to use our own selfishness to teach us the right way to love others. And he does it by giving a command that, the more you think about it, the easier it is to obey.
Jesus said to do to others what you would have them do to you, but what if that's not what they want- What if they're preferences are so different from yours that the things you want done to you are the last things they want done to them-
You probably don't think of yourself as a judgmental person. But the reality is, everyone makes judgments about people all day long. We all do it. You can't function in life without doing it. You have to have some idea of what sort of person you're dealing with in order to interact properly with the people around you. --The question isn't whether you're making judgments, but whether you're making golden judgments.
Someone once challenged me to see if I could find grace in the Sermon on the Mount. Did Jesus teach grace- Or was it all law--One of the most encouraging things Jesus said in the entire Sermon on the Mount is in ch.7 verse 11 where he said, -You are evil.- Today we'll find out why that's so encouraging, and an example of grace upon grace.
Scripture often calls us to wait on the Lord. But what does that mean- What's the difference between waiting and not waiting---Today we'll learn how we can wait on God in such a way as to turn some of those bad gifts that God won't give us into good gifts that God will give us.
When Jesus teaches us about prayer, he makes the point about persistence by pointing out how unjust judges, lazy, grumpy neighbors, and evil fathers respond to requests. Why make that comparison- Are we to think of prayer as being like a woman hounding a bad judge until he finally caves in-
Jesus tells us, -Don't throw your pearls before swine.- Why- Because they are unreceptive, and unreceptive people are not worthy to receive holy things. Then Jesus gives us a lesson on being receptive so we don't shoot ourselves in the foot by being unworthy to receive the things we ask for in prayer. But what is receptivity. Is it just being willing to accept something- Or is there more to it than that-
Right after the famous passage in Matthew 7 about -Don't through your pearls before swine- is another famous passage- -Ask, and it will be given to you.- What is the connection between those two statements---Understanding that connection is a key that can unlocks all kinds of insights to help you learn how to have more of your prayers answered.
If God has perfect wisdom and never needs input from us about what to do, and he always does what is best, why pray-
How strong is your faith- In what areas is your faith weak, and in what areas do you trust God in ways that are especially pleasing to him- Those aren't easy questions to answer, are they- If only there were some kind of X-ray machine that could scan your heart and reveal points of strength and weakness in your faith.-Today we're going to learn from Jesus how to do just that.
In Matthew 7-7 Jesus promises that if we ask, we will receive-as long as what we ask for is good. But what about those times when you know what you're asking for is good because the Bible says it's good, but God still says no to your prayer-
If you were in extreme suffering and begged God for relief, and God's answer was, -The suffering will continue, but I'll give you sufficient grace,- how would that hit you-
Jesus said ask and it will be given to you. But there's been countless times when you've asked and it wasn't given to you. So what's the catch- Is the fine print of Mt.7-7 such that the promise ends up meaning nothing-
What if you found out that all your life, your vision has been distorted, and what you saw through your eyes wasn't the real world- Suppose someone gave you a pair of glasses that corrected the problem and let you see things the way they really are, and that reality was completely different from the way you've always seen things.-What would that be like- And what does it have to do with your walk with the Lord- We're about to find out from, of all things, a group of chickens.
1- How extreme must the hostility be before we deem someone a pig or a dog--2- What about family members that you can't get away from--3- What is the difference between debate and argument- -4- Isn't it disingenuous to become all things to all men--5- Should Christians hang out in bars for the sake of reaching the lost-
The last several days we've been studying Jesus' words, -Do not cast your pearls before pigs or give what is holy to dogs.- But lest we use that as an excuse not to cast our pearls before anyone who is difficult, we need to remember the price godly men and women have paid in order to deliver the Word of God to the lost.-Can you think of a time in your life when someone reached you because they kept trying- Aren't you glad they didn't give up too easily- Whoever reached you with the gospel-aren't you glad they weren't too quick to throw you into the category of the pigs and the dogs and walk away forever-
When Jesus instructed us not to give what is holy to dogs, have you ever stopped to consider what he was talking about, exactly- What holy things are at your disposal to throw or not throw to the dogs- Do you think of yourself as being in position of sacred things-things too precious to bestow upon the wrong people- -Today Jesus is going to give you a new way to look at the things you have to offer.
In Mt.7- Jesus commanded that we not give holy things to pig-dogs. -And if you've been listening the past few days, you may have given some thought to trying to figure out who are the pigs and the dogs in your life. But have you given any thought at all to whether you might have some pig or dog-like responses when people confront you- Is it possible that Jesus is commanded some fellow believers to give you what is holy anymore-
As Christians, we're all about delivering God's holy Word to people-as many people as possible, right- Not really. In Matthew 7-6 Jesus commanded us not to give holy things to certain people. Who are those people, and why would Jesus want us to deprive them of what's holy-
Sometimes when you confront someone in sin, it makes matters worse. Other times it brings restoration. In today's study, we'll discover two key virtues that will make you an effective counselor who brings healing rather than pushing the person even farther into sin.
What good is it to know that his coming is near- Would you live differently if you knew for sure it would be in your lifetime- Shouldn't you live that way all the time- And if we can't know when it will happen, what does -near- even mean-
The log is something you can remove from your own eye. But the speck, very often that's something we need a brother's help with. So what about the people who need your help- Will they get it---The class mentioned in today's podcast is called -Biblical Counseling.- It's available for free download here--https---www.sermonaudio.com-search.asp-seriesOnly-true-currSection-sermonstopic-sourceid-agapebiblechurch-keyword-Biblical-Counseling-keyworddesc-Biblical-Counseling--If you prefer written form, you can order the book Wise Counsel here--https---drichardferguson.com-books-wise-counsel-applying-the-word-of-god-to-lifes-problems-