Wisdom from Above: Recent Episodes
Dr. Harlan Betz
Wisdom from Above with Dr. Harlan Betz is designed to go beyond the reasoning of man to the revelation of God. Thousands of voices clamoring for our attention offer only earthly wisdom. What we desperately need is to listen to the one voice offering heavenly wisdom. We need to listen to God, and He speaks to us through the Bible. In order to discover this wisdom from above, we will be digging into the Bible and discovering its truths... truths about life and death, truths about meaning and morality, truths about time and eternity. I invite you to join me in this passionate pursuit of wisdom.
This, our 175th episode of Wisdom from Above, starts with a story about a fire that broke out at a chemical plant. A Norwegian fire truck saves the day, but things are not what they seemed. Things are not always as they seem to be on be the surface, are they? We may see some event in our life as an obstacle when God knows its an opportunity. We may see some event as a crushing defeat when God sees it as a course correction. We may think of something as a disappointment when it is really His appointment. This episode highlights the importance of trusting God, waiting on God, and doing what God asks.
This 174th episode of Wisdom from Above investigates one of the greatest examples of faith and obedience ever recorded in all of history. Abraham is asked to sacrifice his only begotten son. This is just one of three stories about Abraham in Hebrews 11 that reveal his faith in God. Join me as we look at this man who was called "the friend of God."
An anonymous article entitled “Everything I need to know I learned from Noah’s ark” has some points worth considering:
One: Don't miss the boat.
Two: Stay fit. When you're old, God may ask you to do something really big.
Three: Plan ahead! It wasn't raining when Noah built the Ark.
Four: Don't listen to critics; just get on with the job that needs to be done.
Five: Build your future and your children’s future on high ground.
Six: For safety's sake, travel in pairs. Seven: Speed isn't always an advantage. The turtles were on board with the cheetahs.
Eight: When the doodoo gets really deep, don’t just sit there and complain, shovel.
Nine: Listen to God over people. People said the Titanic couldn’t sink and people said the Ark couldn’t float. Ten: No matter the storm, when you are with God, there's always a rainbow waiting.
Listen in for biographical sketch of Noah's unsinkable faith.
The episode of Wisdom from Above highlights the necessity of faith. This is not faith in faith; but rather faith in God! This is not a leap into the dark; but rather a leap into the arms of God. Some people have their feet firmly planted in mid-air; and they get tossed to and fro like a boat in a stormy sea. We have our feet firmly planted in the solid bedrock of God's Word; and we are anchored with a settled assurance that what God says is true! This is not an "if you believe it, you can achieve it" faith; but rather it is an "if God said it, that settles it" faith! The key is not an enormous amount of faith; but rather the tremendous object of faith! Our faith is in God!
Enoch walked with God... and he never died! God took him up to Heaven alive! Enoch was one, of only two men, who experienced this amazing living translation from earth to heaven.
In this episode of Wisdom from Above, we will examine the importance of walking with God and we will discover the strategy for walking with God.
I close this episode with a plea, a promise and a prayer.
Greetings Wisdom from Above podcast friends.
This podcast looks at Abel, the son of Adam and Eve, who was murdered by his own brother. But the focus of this episode is on Abel's faith.
In this episode we will discover that there are only two kinds of religion in the world. Join us and find out which religion you are part of in your life. It makes all the difference in the world... and in eternity. What is your destiny?
The Hall of Faith is found in Hebrews chapter eleven. This chapter shares the stories of men and women from the Old Testament who lived by faith!
Before the author shares the stories of these men and women who lived by faith, the author wants us to understand the true meaning of faith. This episode of Wisdom from Above will examine the anatomy of faith... as found in the first three verses of Hebrews chapter eleven.
There are two aspects to bull riding. The first aspect is easy... you just have to sit down. The second aspect is hard... you have to try to stay on.
There are two aspects to faith. The first aspect is easy,,, we just trust in what Christ did for us on the cross in paying the penalty for our sins and rising from the dead. That is justification. The second aspect is hard... we are to trust in Christ in the midst of our daily trials and troubles and we are to follow Him faithfully even if it entails troubles and trials. That is sanctification.
In this first episode of season 11, the author of Hebrews issues three challenges to help believers to live by faith in the midst of those troubles and trials.
Most people are not asking, "Is Jesus Real?" Obviously He is real. There are thousands of documents verifying his historicity. The question people are asking is this: "Is Jesus relevant?" What difference does a man who lived 2,000 years ago make in our lives?
In order to answer that question we will dig into the seven "I AM" claims that Jesus made that are recorded in the Gospel of John.
No one is exempt from trials. Hurts and heartaches, disease and death, troubles and trials... are all part of this sin-cursed world. The curse on sin has impacted our planet with destructive storms, our ground with thorns and thistles, our work with pressure and problems, our relationships with difficulties and divisions, and our bodies with diseases and death.
How can we endure such heartaches? This episode of Wisdom from Above will examine three truths we must cling to in times of trouble.
God loves a cheerful giver! Who should give? How much should they give? Why should they give? This episode of Wisdom from Above will reveal four characteristics of giving that should be true in our lives. It will also reveal four truths about giving that should be evident in our giving.
The resurrection Jesus Christ is one of the most critical events in the history of mankind. It serves as a foundational proof for the deity of Jesus Christ and for the veracity of Christianity! Consequently, many skeptics, many agnostics, many post-moderns, and many unbelievers jump at anything that sounds like it could possibly serve to undermine the reality of the resurrection! There are two paths from the tomb of Christ. We will examine those two paths and you will take one or the other!
Behold the lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world!
I want to help you understand the amazing love of Christ, the rugged courage of Christ, and the incredible suffering of Christ.
Even more I want you to know why Christ died and how it can be the best thing that ever happened.
One of the most difficult assignments that God gives to us is the assignment to wait! Waiting can be discouraging. Waiting can be exhausting. Waiting on a broken relationship to be restored. Waiting for relief from pain or the diagnosis of a problem or healing of a disease. Waiting for wrongs to be righted, lies to be admitted, truth to prevail. Waiting for a loved one to trust in Christ. Waiting for a wayward believer to turn back to Christ. sin us as we look at the call to wait and the examples of people who waited.
This episode of Wisdom from Above will reveal the greatest love in history, the greatest gift in history, and the greatest opportunity in history!
In this episode of Wisdom form Above we are going to look at something dramatic, cataclysmic, life-changing. We are going to look at the lives of the 12 Apostles of Jesus Christ. We are going to discover how it was that God used these 12 ordinary men to literally change the world!
Do you know the most important aspect of leadership?
To reveal the importance of the leader’s life, let me quote from two of the most important leaders in the New Testament… Jesus and Paul. Jesus said, “Follow me!” The Bible says, Jesus “left us an example that we should walk in his footsteps.” Paul wrote to the Corinthians, “Be imitators of me!” Paul wrote to the Philippians, “Follow my example.”
The most important aspect of leadership is the leader's life. A godly leader not only talks the talk, he also walks the walk... and his walk gives weight to his words. Join me as we discover ten traits of a godly leader in 1 Thessalonians 2:1-12.
People come to church hurting and find no hope. They come confused and find no direction. They come in weakness and find no power. They come with guilt and find no forgiveness. They come spiritually hungry and are not fed. Why? Because there is no hope, no peace, no power, and no forgiveness in man’s wisdom, man’s philosophy, and man’s religion! So what is the answer? Where can we find pardon, peace, and power? Where can we find hope and truth and meaning and purpose? The Bible gives us the answer and the answer is clear. The answer, as it is given in 2 Timothy 4, is to “Preach the Word!” We need to preach the Word... the Scripture the Holy Bible, the Written Word, the inspired and authoritative Word of God.
What lights your fire? What are you passionate about? Our passions impact our priorities and our activities. Are you passionate about God and His Word and serving Him? Jesus once said He wishes we were either hot or cold, and not lukewarm. God deserves far more than our half-hearted efforts and our left-over time.
Today we are going to see three life-impacting commitments that we as a believer should be passionate about. They are found in 2 Timothy 2:15.
Some people are as confused as a termite in a yo-yo! Their world seems to be spinning out of control. They are confused, uncertain, anxious, and afraid. They are struggling to determine what direction to go and what decision to make. In this episode of Wisdom from Above we will discover how to know the will of God.
"God has a marvelous plan of using ordinary people in extraordinary ways and bringing all the glory to Himself!"
I love that quote from Adrian Rogers. Join me as we explore six verses of Scripture that highlight that truth in this episode of Wisdom from Above. This is an incredibly encouraging passage of Scripture, and it closes with three very practical challenges: a rebuke to our pride, a reckoning of our power, and a response of our praise!
In this episode of Wisdom from Above we will discover the reason why we can rub shoulders with people who are hurting and not even realize how much they are hurting. Next we will see the results of this failure. Then, we will see Jesus plan to correct this problem and to enable us to make an eternal impact in the lives of others.
We wrap up this episode with three stirring challenges for those who know Jesus and then a sweet invitation for those who do not yet know Jesus as their own personal Savior.
Throughout the ages, certain men and women have stood out as spiritual giants. Have you ever wondered what it is that enabled them to move towards such dynamic spiritual maturity? Some men and women seem to find such clear direction and find such great satisfaction and make such a dramatic impact on the world. Why is it that some people seem to be radically changed by the Bible and become real difference makers while others seem completely unaffected? Why is it that some people seem to learn and grow and bear so much fruit while others seem to just wither away or give up or drop out? What makes the difference? I believe the answer is found in the marble of the soils. Join me as we discover how to get the most out of the Bible.
Satan prowls about like a roaring lion seeking whom he may devour. He is highly experienced and incredibly cunning and wickedly deceitful. He has a time-worn strategy for our defeat. His method is deceit and his target is our mind. We are prone to wander and we can be easily misled, swayed, deceived and lured away from our commitment to follow Christ. In this episode of Wisdom from Above we are going to investigate three common lures Satan uses to draw us away from intimacy and fellowship with Christ.
Season 10 of Wisdom from Above is a series of episodes with special emphasis on practical Christianity… a series of how to’s and life-changing truths. Today’s podcast reveals the critical importance of the decisions we make and it challenges us to make the right decision about the path we take. Join us as we discover how to start the new year out right!
Joshua 24:15 declares, "Choose for yourselves today whom you will serve, but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord." We are going to discover two practical truths from each word or phrase in this verse.
This challenge will set us on track for 2024.
Merry Christmas podcast friends!
The real meaning of Christmas has become fuzzy, if not completely lost, to most people. What is Christmas all about? Granted... most people think about gifts and love and Santa... but is there more? Is there something more central ? Is there something more important? How can we get Christmas into focus? Join me for this episode of Wisdom from Above as we explore three common focuses of Christmas, and one rare but crucial focus for Christmas.
In this first episode of the tenth season of Wisdom from Above, a virgin receives incrediblible news! She is going to become pregnant and give birth to the Son of God. This is the heart of the Christmas story.
Is the virgin birth real? Is the virgin birth important? How could it happen? What is its significance? Join me as we investigate the virgin birth in this episode of Wisdom from Above! We are going to discover how to understand the virgin birth.
This is a cup turning episode. It is a call to praise the Lord. How can we adequately express out praise to such an awesomely powerful, tenderly loving, and infinitely wise God? The answer found in Psalm 146 has three components: shouting and shining and singing. Fasten your seat belt because this Psalm could blow your complacency clean out of the cockpit!
Parenting is a monumental task and it is especially difficult to finds a balance as a parent in today's world. Schools and colleges, pop stars and sports stars, television and media are almost all pushing a leftist Marxist philosophy. Critical Race Theory has invaded our government, our schools, our military, and our culture. The political and medical elite seem to be governed by cash instead of a code. Churches are failing to stand for the Scripture. Judges are failing to follow the constitution. Schools are failing to teach “reading, science and math.” Students are being deceived. Rights are being infringed. Truth is being canceled. Facts are being silenced. Morality is being twisted. Good is being called evil. Evil is being called good.
How in the world can we parent wisely in these last days? Psalm 127 suggests that we can be a good parent by our good looks! Now I know that has caught your attention. Listen to this podcast of Wisdom from Above and discover what God's Word has to say about being a good parent.
How to make every day a God-honoring day. Some folks are plagued by yesterday and others are paralyzed by tomorrow. How should we start each day? How should we live each day? How can we find joy? Psalm 118:24 is packed with four practical truths that can help us make the most of every day.
This Wisdom from Above podcast explores Psalm 100... which is a call to an attitude of gratitude. The Bible declares that one of the characteristics of the last days is ingratitude. Pslam 100 is a much beloved psalm that leads us into worshiping the Lord because He is God and because He is good!
We are just a few days away from the fall holiday of Thanksgiving. I thought it would be good to turn our attention to a Psalm that encourages us to intentionally reflect on the blessings of God and intentionally express our thanks to God.
This episode of Wisdom from Above will zero in on the first five verses of Psalm 103. Join me and set your heart right for this Thanksgiving and for every day of the year.
This Wisdom from Above podcast reveals 10 Traits of a Godly Man that are found in Psalm 112. This psalm provides a clear challenge to all of us men.
Today, in this Wisdom from Above podcast we are going to discover seven things God wants us to teach our children. This podcast is especially dedicated to bringing hope and help and honor to mothers.
What is the bone of contention between the Arabs and the Jews? Who is the rightful owner of what the Jews call the land of Israel and the Arabs call Palestine? What is the goal of Hamas and Hezbollah? Is Israel an evil occupier of Palestinian Arab land? Join us for this episode of Wisdom from Above and find some answers to the questions so many are asking.
Most people fail to consider the brevity of life. Psalm 90 tells us that we should number our days. What does that mean? What are the benefits of numbering our days? Join us for this study of this fascinating Psalm written by Moses!
How can a good God let wicked people prosper and godly people suffer? This was the problem that was plaguing Asaph, the author of Psalm 73. It is a problem that plagues many people today. Asaph is trying to get the facts of faith to measure up to the facts of life. In Psalm 73, Asaph walks us through the process of dealing with envy. He tells us what he acknowledged, what he expected, what he saw, what he felt, what he did, what he discovered, and what he decided. This psalm is incredibly practical and it will give you insight into how to deal with envy, self-pity, and bitterness.
Guilt is often revealed by having a knot in our stomachs and turmoil in our minds. Guilt is often the result of having acted wrongly.
David committed adultery with Bathsheba and then David murdered her husband. David thought he might be able to cover up his sin and get away with it; but he could not escape the guilt. Now, at last, he confesses his sin and seeks to find forgiveness from God and freedom from guilt.
We all sin. We all go our own way at times. Do you have a guilty conscience. How do you deal with guilt? I welcome you to listen in as we deiscover how to deal with guilt in this episode of Wisdom from Above.
None of us is immune to stress. People pressure us, adversaries attack us, criticism hurts us, conflict drains us, business overwhelms us, disease scares us, sin binds us, anxiety frazzles us, and death haunts us. Your chest is hurting. Your stomach is in knots. Your mind is working overtime both day and night. Stress often becomes distress!
Is there hope in a world of stress? Before you consume another bottle of Mylanta, or chew up another handful of Tums, or take another dose of Prozak, let me encourage you with three keys to handling stress from Psalm 46.
Charles Garrigus made the following insightful observation: “While three-fifths of the world’s population worries about hunger and survival, we anxiously wrestle with overweight and boredom. ...yet, in personal relationships and inner peace, we are revealing that we do not know how to live. We are artists at having and failures at being.”
Psalm 33 makes this declaration: "Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord." This psalm goes on to list five characteristics that each nation must exhibit if they want God's blessing.
In Psalm 22, we saw Jesus past sacrifice as our Savior.
In Psalm 23, we saw Jesus present care as our Shepherd.
In Psalm 24, we see Jesus future coming as our King!
Join us as we examine this final song in this trilogy of songs by David.
Pslam 24 will remind us of God's desire for those who would worship Him. Psalm 24 will also remind us of our great hope in the return of Jesu as King of kings and Lord of lords.
Today, in this episode of the Wisdom from Above podcast, we are looking at Psalm 23… which talks about Jesus as the Great Shepherd of the sheep! Psalm 23 is known and loved by people all over the world. This is the first Psalm I ever memorized as a kid. It gives such a great picture of Jesus as the tender and compassionate Shepherd of His sheep.
Psalm 23 was written by David… who himself served as a shepherd. It is an honor for me to draw your attention to this kind tender-hearted Shepherd. I hope and pray that this episode of Wisdom from Above will be very encouraging to you.
Psalm 22, 23, & 24 form a beautiful trilogy… called the Shepherd Psalms:
In Psalm 22 Jesus is The Great Shepherd who laid down his life for the sheep (Hebrews 13:20). In Psalm 23 Jesus is The Good Shepherd who cares for His sheep (John 10:14). In Psalm 24, Jesus is The Chief Shepherd who is coming back to be with His sheep (1 Peter 5:1-4).
We are going to examine these Psalms one episode at a time. This episode is focued on Psalm 22. In this Psalm David opens his heart about his experience in suffering from adversaries that actually predict Jesus experience of suffering on the cross. This psalm actually has some very good news for us!
A Revelation Demands A Response. God has revealed Himself in the world He created and in the Word He communicated. Psalm 19 speaks about these two forms of revelation. One of my professors, Dr Toussaint used to say, "If God speaks there is nothing more important that to listen to what He has to say." All God has spoken... in the sky and in the Scripture. Join me as we dig into this fascinating Psalm and learn with me how we should respond to the revelation of God.
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Some say Biblical faith is too impersonal... it is trying to believe in a distant force that you can't see or hear or touch. It’s all high ceilings, stained glass, wood pews, and cold facts.
Some say Biblical faith is too impractical... it’s some kind of crazy leap into the dark. It doesn't speak to life where the rubber meets the road. It’s all pie in the sky in the sweet bye and bye.
Some say Biblical faith is too limiting... its teachings are too harsh and rigorous. The lifestyle promoted by the Bible takes all the fun out of life. It's all discipline and no delight.
In Psalm 16, David gives us an entirely different picture of Biblical faith. I urge you to check it out!
David faced misunderstanding, jealousy, and shattered hopes. David faced rebellion, heartache, and broken dreams. David faced cruelty, injustice and physical attacks. In a time like this, David took pen in hand and composed Psalm 13.
This Psalm gives us insight and help for how to respond in times of trial and days of discouragement. If you are anything like me, you will see yourself in this psalm and you will discover several very practical steps you can take to get through trials victoriously.
Psalm 8 is a fabulous Psalm that highlights the majesty and glory of God. It reminds us that God is the Creator of the universe. It also reveals the amazing truth that this God who created the universe cares about you and me. The Psalmist challenges us to consider the greatness and grace of our Lord. If you are anything like me, you will find yourself singing and praising God before we finish this episode of Wisdom from Above.
We all have times when we feel like the life God wants us to have is being ripped away from us by unkind people or unfortunate circumstances. Our world is being manipulated and deceived and pushed to the brink. Diseases are being manufactured in labs. Corruption is being covered up. Speech is being censored. Science is being perverted. Pornography is being pushed on our children. Sexual immorality is being promoted in our schools. Marriage is being undermined. Christianity is being mocked. How should we respond? David reveals the answer in Psalm 5. Join us as we explore Psalm 5 in this episode of Wisdom from Above.
Many have no rest in the midst of troubles. Many have no refuge in the midst of troubles. Many have no joy in the midst of troubles. In Psalm 4, David reveals the keys to joy in the midst of troubles. Join me for this episode of Wisdom from Above to discover how to experience joy in the midst of troubles.
Every one of us faces battles in our everyday life. Your battles may be with your finances, they may be with your parents, they may be with your marriage partner, they may be with your children. Your battles may be at your school, at your work, or at your social gatherings. Your battles may be with friends who have betrayed you or enemies who want to destroy you. Your battles may be with Marxist politicians, liberal theologians, Hollywood leftists, global elitists, gender bending activists, or satanic forces. We all face tough battles! We all have troubles and trials in this life.
David... shepherd boy turned King of Israel face his share of troubles and trials. Psalm 3 tells about the time his own son led a revolt against him. This Psalm, in which David describes his troubles, will give us some practical steps to take when we face troubles and trials.
Think of the foolishness of the clay pot trying to get rid of the potter. That is what we are seeing in our world today. The creature (man) trying to get rid of the Creator (God). Global elitists, Hollywood leftists, liberal professors, and left-wing media all seem to be trying to censor and forbid any mention of God, any prayer to God, and any reference to His commands. They reject the idea of Biblical morality and absolute truths. God is being pushed out of our institutions and nations. Believers in Christ are being pushed to the fringe of society. What is God's response? What is God's plan? Psalm 2 reveals God's perspective on man's rebellion against Him. This Psalm also reveals God's plan to squash the rebellion. And we will see, as Isaac Watts correctly wrote, Jesus shall reign where're the sun does its successive journeys run; His kingdom spread from shore to shore, till moon shall wax and wane no more. noted. Join us as we investigate Psalm 2
I am thrilled to report that this episode of Wisdom from Aboveis the beginning of our 9th season. All 126 episodes that precede this episode are available to everyone everywhere that has WiFi connections.
Our world is becoming increasingly secular. We live in a world of lawlessness and license. We live in a day of spiritual ignorance and moral ambivalence. Godly men and godly women are looked upon with disfavor as politically incorrect and as dangerously subversive. Believers in Christ are being attacked as though they are the enemy. Looting and stealing, raving and pillaging, lying and deceiving are going unjudged and even praised. Values are twisted, bodies are degraded, and minds are depraved. There is an increasing sense of fear and frustration and futility in our world.
What message would God give to people who are living in such savage times? Does God’s Word have anything to say about how to find contentment, satisfaction, fulfillment, meaning, purpose, life, joy, and happiness? Yes it does... and therefore, this 9th season of Wisdom from Above will focus on the Psalms and will seek to find personal help, practical guidance, and divine insight for the difficult issues of life. Join us as we embark on this new venture into the Psalms. Today we will investigate Psalm 1 - "How to be Truly Happy."
In this episode of Wisdom from Above, we conclude our investigation of the Book of Revelation by examining
The Faithful Word of God the Father, The Finished Work of God the Son, and The Final Witness of God the Spirit.
Three times Jesus says, "I am coming."
We join the beloved Apostle John in saying, "Even so, come Lord Jesus!"
Three times those who have not yet placed their fight in Christ are urged to "Come" to Christ in faith...
believing that Jesus died in their place, paid for their sins, rose from the grave, and offers them eternal life as a free gift.
Join me as we wrap up this exciting study of Revelation!
Our eyes have not seen, our ears have not heard and our mind has not imagined the incredible blessings God has in store for us throughout eternity.
In this episode of Wisdom from Above we will discover five fantastic blessings that will be available to the believer. Each of these blessings is accompanied by a practical challenge for us that impacts how we think and speak and act in this life. How we live in this life sets the stage for joys we will experience in eternity.
This episode is loaded with songs that naturally flow from a heart that is passionate about pleasing the Lord. I hope you find this episode very encouraging and I hope that is stipulates an eager anticipation for things to come!
Where do you go if you want to find out about the place Jesus is preparing for us? Do you go to the library, to the internet, to the book store, to a protestant preacher, to a catholic priest, to a muslim cleric, to a buddhist monk, to an eastern mystic, to a religious guru, to a palm reader, to a crystal ball gazer, to a visionary dreamer, to a returned-from-the-dead book writer? All of these may be more than happy to tell you what heaven or purgatory or nirvana or whatever they call the future is like; but are they right? Are they trustworthy? Is their description of heaven inspired? No! Who can you trust? Who has the authority to really declare the truth about our future?
The Apostle Paul was caught up into the third heaven, and he said he was not allowed to speak about it (2 Corinthians 12:1-10). Yet we have people today claiming to have been caught up to the third heaven for a brief period of time... and they are more than happy to sell you book in which they speak about it. And for some unexplainable reason, people are more willing to hear from them than they are to hear from God! How is it that some Christians put more confidence in someone's claimed experience than they put in God's inspired Word? It boggles my mind!
If you want to know about the place God is preparing for us, then I would suggest you look in the book that God wrote for us... the Holy Bible. The Bible has the only divinely authoritative and truly accurate revelation of our future home. And in this episode of Wisdom from Above, we go to the Bible to find out what God's Word says about our eternal home. I'd be honored if you listened in to this Wisdom from Above podcast.
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Revelation 22:1-5 reveals seven new things that will be experienced throughout eternity by those whose names are recorded in the Lamb's Book of Life.
1) New Haven and Earth, 2) New Jerusalem, 3) New abode of God, 4) New peace, 5) New paradise, 6) New Inheritance, 7) New Contrast. We have so much to look forward to: This eternal state... this New Heaven and New Earth Heaven is beyond our comprehension. It is beyond our imagination! It is beyond our wildest dreams! It will be a place of phenomenal beauty, incredible joy, and great adventure!
Join Dr Harlan Betz for this episode of Wisdom from Above as we take a look onto the future!
What is the Great White Throne judgment? Who is the Judge at the Great White Throne? Who is judged at the Great white Throne?
What is the Lake of Fire? Would a loving God send anyone to Hell? What should be our response?
Join me for this episode of Wisdom from Above as we consider the eternal lot of these who refuse to place their faith in Jesus.
Isaac Watts tries to capture the breadth and length of Christ’s reign with these words:
Jesus shall reign where’er the sun... Does its successive journeys run,
His kingdom spread from shore to shore, Till moon shall wax and wane no more!
George Frederick Handel picked up on the joy of Christ reign with these words:
Hallelujah! For the Lord God omnipotent reigneth, and He shall reign forever and ever. King of kings and Lord of lords!
What are they talking about. Is Jesus really literally physically coming back to the earth? Is Jesus really literally physically going to reign on the earth?
Join us, in this episode of Wisdom from Above, as we determine the real meaning of the 1,000 year reign of Christ!
The Second Coming of Christ is one of the most highly emphasized and eagerly anticipated events in all of the Bible. There are 1,845 references to the Second Coming in the Old Testament. There are 318 references to the Second Coming in the New Testament. One of every 25 verses in the New Testament refers to the Second Coming. 23 of the 27 books in the New Testament refer to the Second Coming. For every 1 prophecy on the 1st coming, there are 8 prophecies on the 2nd Coming. The Second Coming is the culmination of the book of Revelation, and the climax of prophetic history! Join us for this episode of Wisdom from Above as we study the Second Coming of Christ in Revelation chapter 19.
The Scarlet Harlot of Revelation chapter 17 is Religious Babylon. She will reach her height of immorality and idolatry in the first half of the Tribulation. The Mighty City of Revelation chapter 18 is Commercial Babylon. She will reach her height of greed and godlessness in the second half of the Tribulation.
Just as the ecumenical movement and the the one-world one-church movement is leading us toward the establishment of Religious Babylon, even so the World Economic Forum, the United Nations, the New World Order globalist agenda are leading us toward the establishment of Commercial Babylon.
Who is the premier leader of Commercial Babylon? How does the New World Order agenda lead to Commercial Babylon? How does a one-world banking system benefit Commercial Babylon? What is going to happen to this Mighty City? How will the kings and merchants and the globalist elite respond?
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Revelation chapter 17 features a Scarlet Harlot riding a Scarlet Beast. We will investigate the identity of these two and we will get a graphic picture of the soon to be revealed one-world-united religion. We will see God's assessment of this united religion and we will see the Antichrist's relationship to the Scarlet Harlot. We will also learn that there will be a sudden reversal of her fortunes. Then we will get a sneak preview of coming attractions concerning the return of The Lamb as the Lord of lords and the King of kings. I close this episode with three things we need to know. I'm excited bout sharing this episode with you.
The book of Revelation focuses on the second Coming of Christ! The prophetic section of Revelation reveals the outpouring of God’s wrath in the seven years of Tribulation. Some of you are wondering why a loving God would pour out His wrath upon the earth and upon mankind? This is a hard pill to swallow. How can we reconcile a God who is love with a God who pours out wrath? That is a very legitimate question! How would I respond? Join us for this episode of Wisdom from Above to learn more. This episode also highlights the final outpouring of God's wrath and sets the stage for the Battle of Armageddon!
This episode is a flash forward. We encountered the 144,000 Jews at the beginning of the Tribulation when they were saved and sealed and sent out as evangelists Now in this passage we see the 144,000 Jewish evangelists at the end of the Tribulation.
There is a last call to salvation as the gospel is proclaimed once again. Then we see a vivid description of the Battle of Armageddon pictured as a harvesting of the grapes of wrath. Then we read about the Lake of Fire. Who was it prepared for? Who goes there? How long will they be there?
Perhaps you, like me, have heard members of the World Economic Forum talk about their goal of implanting human brains in robots. The book of Revelation speaks of the False Prophet causing an image of the AntiChrist to breathe and speak! How does this happen? Her also causes all to receive the mark of the beast... the mark of the AntiChrist... 666. What is the significance of this mark? Join his was we investigate this last half of Revelation chapter 13.
Todays episode of Wisdom from Above reveals information about the AntiChrist.
He is described was a beast rising out of the sea. He is tremendously powerful. Where does he get such power?
He appears rise from the dead. How could this be? How do the people respond?
What does he do to the saints? Do miracles always attest to the truth? What is our final authority?
Join me as we get a glimpse into the future and some understanding of the AntiChrist.
This Wisdom from Above podcast introduces 5 major figures in the book of Revelation: 1) The Radiant Woman, 2) The Red Dragon, 3) The Regal King, 4) The Ruling Angel, and 5) The Remaining Believers.
This podcast unveils the reason for anti-Semitism and takes a little time to explore the history of the Jewish people.
This podcast highlights three critical ways to be victorious in the battle against the spiritual forces of darkness.
You won't want to miss it!
I open this podcast with some Godspeak Billboard quotes... noting that God is coming down here! His coming will be bitter for those who've rejected Him and it will be sweet for those who've received Him. In this episode of Wisdom from Above we are focusing on the 7th Trumpet and I've titled it The Hallelujah Chorus. this passage has three main parts: The Announcement of the Angels, The Adoration of the Believers, and The Affirmation of God!
The Announcement of the Angels (Verse 15) is declared in this thrilling announcement: “The kingdoms of this world have become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever!”
The Adoration of the Believers in Heaven (Verses 16-18) is made up of four declarations of thanksgiving.
The Affirmation of God (19) gives us three-fold glimpse of Heaven and reveals five-fold demonstration of cosmic disturbances on earth!
You will be greatly encouraged by this precious glimpse of heaven.
This Wisdom from Above podcast introduces us to two extraordinary witnesses that have powers like we have never seen. They can breathe out fire like a dragon to devour their enemies. They can shut up the heavens so there is no rain. They can turn water into blood. They can cause plagues to fall upon the earth. And... in addition to those powers, they are invincible for three and one-half years!
Carve out 30 minutes to listen to this Wisdom form Above podcast as we look at these two witnesses, as we see man's response to them, and as we see God's care for them. There will also be a personal challenge concerning our own role as witnesses.
In this 8th season of Wisdom from Above we are focused on a revelation... an unveiling... a God-given explanation of things to come. But in this chapter, we discover three mysteries: The Mystery of the Message of the Mighty Angel, The Mystery of God's Timing for the Return of Christ, and the Mystery of the Contents of the Little Scroll. Although this chapter presents three mysteries, it also presents tow possibilities: sweetness and bitterness. Join me for this episode and remove some of the mystery of your eternal destiny!
This episode of Wisdom from Above is entitled "All Hell Breaks Loose."
Trumpet Judgment 5 reveals an incredible prophecy of scorpion-like locusts being released from the Bottomless Pit to wreak havoc one earth by tormenting unbelievers! Who are these locusts? Trumpet judgment 6 reveals a 200 million man army from the East with astonishing military powers. They will slay 1/3 of the world's population!
This passage also reveals the hardness of man's hearts as they persist in their wicked ways. this passage highlights some of their evil pursuits.
I welcome you to join me for this prophetic study of triple trumpet woes.
People are fascinated with the future! Just turn your television to FOX, MSNBC, BBC, Sky News, CNN… and it hits you in the face. A financial expert is predicting the end of the dollar and central bank digital currency. A consumer expert is predicting world-wide starvation. A scientist is predicting robots with human brains. A climatologist is predicting ecological disasters and the end of the world. And beyond these things are the astrology charts in the newspapers, the palm readers in houses by the highway, and the psychics on television. (Mystical Music) This fascination with the future has become a multi-million-dollar obsession! People are turning to politicians, psychics, New Age thinkers, self-proclaimed prophets, supermarket tabloids, and the occult in a frenzied search to find out about the future!
Amazingly, in the midst of all this hunger for information about things to come, very few have turned to the one and only source of prophecy that is absolutely true and 100% accurate… the Bible! According to Revelation chapter 8, the first four Tribulation Trumpet Judgments reveal catastrophic destruction coming upon planet earth! This destruction affects the vegetation, the seas, the rivers and the luminaries.
What can we learn about the judgment of God? How should we respond? Join us for this episode of Wisdom from Above and find some answers!
Todays episode of Wisdom from Above reveals the identity of the 144,000 found in Revelation chapter 7. Who are they? Why are they sealed? What is their impact? Just to give you a little foretaste's of their ministry, I will tell you now that they are going to be sharing the gospel during the Tribulation. Sadly, those who trust in christ during the Tribulation will face intense persecution, ... include murder and martyrdom.
According to a news report commissioned by Britain’s foreign secretary Jeremy Hunt, 80% of religious believers who are being persecuted around the world are Christians, and in some regions the scale and nature of the persecution approaches the international definition of genocide.
According to the World Watch List-2022 recently published by Open Doors, “over 360 million Christians suffer high levels of persecution and discrimination for their faith – a rise of 20 million from last year. The number represent one in seven Christians worldwide.
I am pleased to invite you to join me for this episode in our quest for Wisdom from Above!
The beloved apostle John, exiled to a Roman penal colony on the island of Patmos, is given a vision of things to come. He sees "The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse"... a White horse, a Red horse, A Black Horse, and a Pale Horse. What do they depict? Who do they impact? What percent of the earth's population is wiped out in the seal judgments? What can I do to avoid going through this cataclysmic holocaust? Listen to this episode and gain some Wisdom from Above!
Peace on earth! Mankind has always longed for a utopian world that is free of disease and danger and death and destruction, a world that is free of war and want and hunger and hatred. Some think the answer is in reforming the economy. Some think the answer is in human reasoning. Some think the answer is in educating the masses. Some think the answer is in taxation and the redistribution of wealth. Some think the answer is in oppressing the oppressors. Some think the key is establishing a one-world government. But after thousands of years, it is evident that although everyone wants utopia, no one is able to achieve it!
This podcast will open up a vision of the only one who can bring about utopia! This podcast is about the last will and testament of God. God's will is securely recorded in a seven-sealed scroll. At first it seems that no one is worthy to open the scroll. But in this vision, John sees a Lion who is worthy. This Lion is also a Lamb! This Lion-Lamb is the only one who can truly usher in a utopian world. This podcast will give you a glimpse into the worship of God the Son! It is thrilling, fascinating, and inspiring.
A. W. Tozer said, “Worship is the missing jewel of the church.” I believe that he is right. For far too many, worship is lifeless, heartless, and meaningless. What has happened? What is missing? What is true worship?
Who are the four living creatures in Revelation 4? Why do the four living creatures worship God the Father? Do we have the same reasons for worshipping God that these four living creatures do? Do we have even more reasons to worship God?
Who are the 24 Elders in Revelation 4? Why do the 24 elders worship God the Father? What can we learn from them?
Many supposed Bible experts are saying the idea of a PreTrib Rapture was never taught until the last 200 years. They say the idea of a Pre Trip Rapture is a false modern day invention. Are they right? Are there no early church fathers who taught a PreTrib Rapture before the 1900s? Join me as we walk through the history of the church and look for anyone who teaches a Pre Trip Rapture.
This is a Missing Persons Report. The church is missing in Revelation 6-18. Why?
Why is the church mentioned 17 times in Revelation chapters 1-3 and mentioned zero times in Revelation chapters 6 through 18?
I believe the answer is the rapture! Join me as we look at a few passages of Scripture that present the truth of the Pre-Tribulational Rapture.
Jesus said the believers in the Church of Laodicea that were lukewarm. He wishes that they were hot or cold... rather than lukewarm.
This episode will explore: 1) the reason why Jesus calls them lukewarm, 2) the impact this lukewarmness had on Jesus, and 3) the steps they needed to take to overcome this lukewarmness. The lessons they learned are incredibly relevant to our lives today!
Stunning predictions and powerful promises are found in the book of Revelation. This episode of Wisdom from Above looks at the church of Philadelphia. The Philadelphian believers had only a little power but they had a lot of perseverance. They are told that God can open doors that no man can shut and God can shut doors that no man can open. We don't have to bust down doors to get to the place God wants us to be. We just have to walk through the doors the opens. The Philadelphian believers were not famous, but they were faithful. In this letter there is a wonderful promise of being kept out of the hour (season) of testing. What does this mean? Is this a promise that believers will be raptured out before the seven year Tribulation period? If so, is this true for all believers? Check out this podcast.
Wisdom from Above is dedicating this season to an intensive study of the book of Revelation. The book of Revelation is loaded wirh stunning predictions, powerful promises, and practical applications. Early on in this book we find seven letters to seven churches. Today's episode is the letter to the church of Sardis. This Church looked alive on the outside, but they were dying on the inside. We can fool others, but we cannot fool God. Sardis was dull, decaying, derailed and dirty. Jesus gives them four practical steps to take in order to overcome this dying condition. Then Jesus reveals two amazing rewards that will be given to those who overcome! Are you really alive, or do you just have a reputation for being alive? Join us to find out how to revive the dying.
Toleration! Toleration? That starts with T and rhymes with D... and that stands for Disaster. Disaster… right here in Thyatira!Toleration is good when it means allowing others the freedom to hold differing views. But toleration is bad when it means accepting false teaching as true. Toleration is bad when it means accepting evil actions as good. The Church of Thyatira was tolerating Jezebel.
Jezebel was Jezebel was teaching that sexual immorality was acceptable and idolatry was of little consequence. Some in the church were loving and trusting and serving and patient. Many in the church were attracted to Jezebel's teaching. They not only permitted her teaching, they also practiced what she taught. They were enticed to immorality and entrapped in idolatry.
It is happening in many churches today. Teachers are embracing that which is evil. How should the church respond? What should these church members do? Jesus speaks, and He does not mince His words. This episode of Wisdom from Above is all about avoiding the disaster of tolerating evil. Join us and find out how to avoid disaster.
Francis Shaeffer says, “Here is the great evangelical disaster – the failure of the evangelical world to stand for truth as truth. There is only one word for this – namely accommodation; the evangelical church has accommodated to the world spirit of this age.”
A.W. Tozer writes, A new decalogue has been adopted by the neo-Christians of our day, the first words of which reads, “Thou shalt not disagree,” and a new set of beatitudes too, which begins, “Blessed are they that tolerate everything for they shall not be made accountable for anything.” ... The blessing of God is promised to the peacemaker, but the religious negotiator had better watch his step. Darkness and light can never be brought together by talk, some things are not negotiable!
Listen to this Wisdom from Above podcast and discover how to conquer compromise.
They say that a crushed rose gives out a better fragrance. The church of Smyrna was being crushed, and those believers were diffusing the fragrance of the knowledge of Christ. Jesus brings words of comfort and hope to these dear believers... and in so doing He brings words of hope and comfort to us. In this brief letter to the church of Smyrna, Jesus shares how to handle suffering. Carve out the time to listen to this podcast. It may be the key to enabling you to find calm in the midst of chaos and peace in the midst of persecution.
This Wisdom from Above podcast explores the letter to the church of Ephesus that is found in Revelation 2:1-7. The city of Ephesus was geographically strategic, economically wealthy, and religiously corrupt! The church of Ephesus was standing firm in the truth. Jesus had just one thing against the church of Ephesus... they had left their first love! They were sold in doctrine, but sick in devotion. Far too many believers have left their first love. The passion and fire of their love for Christ has grown cold. Jesus tells this church how to rekindle their love. Join us and discover three steps to rekindling the fire of our devotion to Christ.
Satan has a strategy for your defeat. He will mislead you with false impressions. He will entrap you with false allurements. He will steal your faith, kill your hope and destroy your love. We need to put on the full armor of God so we can stand against the schemes of the Devil. The book of Revelation is loaded with promises to those who overcome.
Is every believer an overcomer? Or... are only those believers who resist temptation, yield to the Spirit, and follow Christ in obedience overcomers? It is crucial that we understand the identity of the overcomer in the book of Revelation. Join us was we investigate this term and its radical ramifications for our lives and our future.
A little girl, reciting the Lord’s prayer said, “lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from email!” Sometimes you might wish you could be delivered from email! But what a wonderfully quick and efficient way it is to communicate.
In this Wisdom from Above podcast, I’m telling you that “You’ve got mail!” I’m not talking about email. I’m talking about letters! A stack of seven letters! Written to you by someone who loves you more deeply than you could ever imagine.
This episode of Wisdom from Above is all about those letters... and the one who wrote them... and you! Carve out the time to listen!
A kindergarten teacher was observing her classroom of children while they drew. She would occasionally walk around to see each child’s work. As she got to one little girl who was working diligently, she asked what the drawing was? The girl replied, “I’m drawing God.” The teacher paused and said, “But no one knows what God looks like.” Without missing a beat and without looking up from her drawing, the girl replied, “They will when I’m done!”
Well, after today’s podcast, and a close look at John’s vision of Christ, you will an amazing picture of Jesus Christ!
This podcast pulls you into the first century world of Christians being forced to declare that Caesar is Lord or face severe torture and death.
This podcast also highlights the central figure of the book of Revelation. This figure has eyes like a flame of fire. This figure has the keys to death and hades. This figure speaks to the churches. This figure is a Lamb who was slain. This figure is also a lion. This figure will come on a white horse followed by the armies of heaven.
This figure loves us, looses us and lifts us! And we love Him. And we worship Him! And this book is dedicated to Him... dedicated to the One I love!
I am excited to tell you that this is the 90th podcast of Wisdom from Above… and this 8th season is going to be a study of the book of Revelation.
This book of Revelation is apocalyptic and predicts a future that is cataclysmic. The book of Revelation reveals the disappearance of the church, the mark of the beast, and the coming of Christ. The book of Revelation tells of a fiery Red Dragon inciting war in Heaven, a mortally wounded Antichrist coming back to life, and the False Prophet deceiving the world. The book of Revelation reveals a period of holocaust such as the world has never known; but it also predicts the power of Christ coming and the peace of Christ reigning. The book of Revelation predicts a coming world in which there is no more sickness or sorrow, no more poverty or persecution, no more wickedness or war, no more disease or death!
The book of Revelation is loaded with stunning predictions, and powerful promises, and practical applications. I couldn’t be more excited to dig into this book. Are you ready?
This is our final episode of the 7th season... which has been focusing on The Last Days. We have been digging into the Olivet Discourse in Matthew chapters 24 and 25. In this final parable, Jesus reveals the upcoming Judgment of the Sheep and Goats. At first glance it looks like the sheep are saved by their good works and the goats are cursed because they failed to do good works. Does this passage teach salvation by good works? That seems contradictory to all of the rest of Scripture. Join us as we investigate the true meaning of this parable and as we review the good news of the gospel.
Jesus reveals the upcoming Judgment of the Sheep and Goats. What? Are animals going to be judged? No. This is a parable in which people are likened to either sheep or goats. The sheep will be commended. The goats will be condemned.
It is critical that we understand the timing of this judgment. In order to set the stage for this judgment, I am asking you to use your imagination and to place yourself in the future... experiencing the things Jesus predicts will happen.
The most critical question for you to ask is this: Will I be left behind when the rapture takes place? The most important thing for you to know is this: God is offering eternal life as a free gift to all who place their faith in Jesus Christ... to all who believe Jesus died in their place and paid for their sins and was buried and then rose from the dead.
A steward is a person who has been entrusted with he responsibility of managing the affairs of an owner. As believers in Jesus Christ, we are stewards of the opportunities, the abilities, and the resources that God has entrusted to us. The Bible says "It is required of stewards that one one found faithful." (1 Corinthians 4:1-2).
A parable is an earthly story with a heavenly meaning. In this revelatory prophecy in Matthew chapters 24 and 25, Jesus shares the Parable of the Talents. This parable reveals how God determines what opportunities, the abilities, and resources He will entrust to each believer. It also reveals the options that lie before us as believers... to be faitfhul or unfaithful. It also reveals the ultimate reward or regret that we will experience.
What will it be for you... commendation or condemnation, promotion or demotion, reward or regret?
Jesus' parable of the virgins is puzzling. It is difficult to determine just who the virgins represent. In order to understand this parable we will look closely at the Jewish wedding customs during the time of Christ.
Jesus' parable of the virgins is practical. It is always too soon to run out of fuel. Very likely everyone of us has exeperienced this first hand at some time in our lives. What is the point of this parable? How does it apply to our lives today? Join us for this episode and discover some practical lessons that can enable us to be numbered among the wise.
The person who prepares for this life but not for the next is wise for a moment but a fool for eternity. This Wisdom from above podcast is digging into Jesus' parable of the servants. In this parable we see the stark contrast between the faithful believer and the unfaithful believer.
What wise traits are noted about the faithful believer? What is the reward for the faithful believer? What foolish traits are discovered in the unfaithful believer? What is the regret for the unfaithful believer? What is the key to being an honor to Jesus and what is the key to being honored by Jesus? Listen in and find out!
We all know the details of the beginning of the church age... as the Holy Spirit came down like tongues of fire upon a gathering of believers on the Day of Pentecost. But few know the details of the end of the church age... when Jesu comes down for the church.
In this stunning prophecy of Jesus, in Matthew 24:36-44, Jesus describes His coming. What coming is Jesus talking about? Is this the return to reign on earth at the end of the Tribulation? Or, is this the return for His bride the church before the tribulation?
There is a division and a destination. Who is taken and who is left? Where is the one who is taken, taken? Where is the one who is left, left?
Join us for this fascinating study of the rapture!
Jesus' stunning Prophecy reaches a climax in Matthew 24:29-35.
Here, in these seven verses, Jesus gives us a prophecy, a parable, and a promise concerning the Second Coming.
In the prophecy, He describes the cosmic agitation, the coming advent, and the chosen assembled.
In the parable of the fig tree, He reveals what generation will be living when Christ returns.
In the promise, He reminds us of the enduring accuracy and everlasting value of His Word.
You may be asking, "Why study Biblical prophecy?" This episode of Wisdom from Above reveals five reasons why it is important to study Biblical prophecy.
In this episode Jesus reveals critical details related to the last 3 & 1/2 years before He comes back to the earth to rule and reign. Jesus highlights three characteristics of the Antichrist and the False Prophet This episode also reveals information concerning the nature of Jesus' Second Coming. We will also discover the reason why Jesus has not yet come back to the earth to rule and to reign. And... for those who are believers in Jesus, we find a strong challenge regarding living in the light of His coming!
Wisdom from Above is thrilled do be able to present this "Last Days" episode. This 81st episode of Wisdom from Above investigates one of the most stunning prophecies ever made... the prophecy of Daniel's 70 sevens.
Jesus challenges those who read about the Abomination of Desolation to understand it. The Abomination of Desolation is obviously something big and something bad... but just exactly what is it? Make sure you are buckled in and your seats are in an upright position as we explore this incredibly amazing prophecy by Daniel the Prophet! It will blow you away!
This is the 80th episode of Wisdom from Above! Every single episode is available to you! We are in our 7th season which is called "The Last Days." Jesus rebuked the Pharisees and Sadducees because they did not know the signs of the times. Do you now the signs of the times? In this episode we will explore signs # 7, #8, # 9, and #10 as revealed by Jesus in Matthew chapter 24.
What signs indicate the end is near? What has to happen before the end comes. This episode will answer those and many more questions. I'm delighted to welcome you was you listen to this next episode of Wisdom from Above!
Wisdom from Above is exploring the Signs of the Times as revealed by Jesus Christ in the Gospel of Matthew chapters 24 and 25.
In this episode we will discover the key to understanding the signs of the times.
We will focus on the 6th sign of the times... which is the persecution of Christians.
The statistics are shocking. It was reported in 2020 that 425 Christians are being killed every single day because of their faith!
Join me as we investigate this sign and as we seek a Biblical perspective in the midst of this horrific prediction.
Season 7: The Last Days. Episode 7: The Signs of the Times - #3 famines, #4 pestilences, #5 earthquakes
Jesus rebuked the Pharisees and Sadducees because they did not know the signs of the times (Matt 16:3). Ladies and gentlemen, Jesus expects us to know the signs of the times! Jesus reveals the signs of the times in Matthew chapter 24.
Sign #1 is False Christs and False Prophets. (5) Jesus warns us not to be deceived.
Sign #2 is Wars and Rumors of Wars (6-7) Jesus warns us to wake up!
Sign #3 is Famines, Sign #4 is Plagues (Pestilences), and Sign #5 is Earthquakes. (7) Some folks question whether there is any change at all in the number of these events over the years. Join me as we take the time to look at the facts!
This is Season 7 (The Last Days) Episode 6 (Signs of the Times #2).
The Apostle Paul predicts that” In the last days perilous times will come” (2 Timothy 3:1). Perilous means savage, fierce, difficult, dangerous. The term “last days” in general refers to the church age. The term “last days” in specific refer to the time shortly before the close of the church age and the return of Christ.
Jesus rebuked the Pharisees and Sadducees because they knew signs of the weather, but they did not know the signs of the times (Matt 16:3). Ladies and gentlemen, Jesus expects us to know the signs of the times! In Matthew 24 and 25, Jesus gives reveals the Signs of the Times. Last week's podcast of Wisdom form Above covered Sign #1 - False Christs and False Prophets. Today's episode we will focus on Sign #2 - Wars and Rumors of War.
Jesus rebuked the Pharisees and Sadducees because they knew signs of the weather, but they did not know the signs of the times (Matt 16:3). Ladies and gentlemen, Jesus expects us to know the signs of the times! Do you know the signs of the times?
Jesus gives a phenomenal prophecy in Matthew chapters 24 and 25. Here, in this passage of Scripture, Jesus Christ gives us a panoramic overview of things to come. Jesus reveals the signs of the times. Jesus foretells the cataclysmic nature of the great tribulation. Jesus predicts the dramatic events surrounding His glorious return to Earth. Jesus gives us insight into how to prepare for the future!
Don't miss this 76th episode of Wisdom from Above where we begin our discovery of the signs of the times.
The Apostle predicts that "In the last days perilous times will come"... and then he goes on to describe mankind in these last days. The list is both shocking and sobering. Paul accurately describes mankind in our world and in our culture today! Carve out the time to listen to this podcast and you will feel like you are listing to breaking news!
Paul then reveals three things about the false teachers of these last days. This gives us a clear guideline for guarding against false teachers.
Finally, Paul lays out a six-fold checklist of what a true teacher is like. You could use this checklist to evaluate yourself, to evaluate this podcast or any other podcast, and to evaluate the preachers you listen to regularly.
The 7th season of the Wisdom from Above podcast is focused on "The Last Days." Most people are scrambling to try to find even a hint of what is going to happen in the future. They go to horoscopes, crystal balls, palm readers, tarot cards, financial gurus, religious mystics, and people who claim to be prophets. But no one and no thing they are going to is willing to promise 100% accuracy 100% of the time. Many would make critical decisions if they only knew exactly what was going to happen in the future. Maybe you should sit down before you read my next comment. Biblical prophecy is 100% accurate 100% of the time. This is just one of the key reasons why you should study Bible prophecy. This 74th episode of Wisdom from Above will reveal ten reasons why we should study Biblical prophecy.
Over 63 million babies have been aborted in the United States of America alone since the Roe v Wade decision in 1973. That is an average of 1,295,000 babies aborted every year in the United States of America. That means there were there were an average of 3,548 babies aborted every day in the USA for the past 49 years! According to a survey of over 2.4 million aborting women, 96.50% of their abortions were for reasons of inconvenience.
In these last days, our culture is calling evil good. We are constantly bombarded with the secular thinking about abortion. "It is nothing but a mass of tissue." "Its not a person." "My body, my choice." In this 73rd episode of Wisdom from Above we will highlight the revelation of God. We will discover five truths the Bible teaches about life, pregnancy, and abortion.
This is the 72nd podcast of Wisdom from Above. In this 7th season we are focusing on “The Last Days.” The Bible declares that “in the last days, perilous times will come.” Among other striking characteristics, this passage tells us that men will be blasphemers, unholy, unloving, without self-control, brutal, despisers of what is good (2 Timothy 3:1-5). The Holy Spirit expressly says that “inthe latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceitful spirits and doctrines of demons, speaking lies in hypocrisy, having their own conscience seared with a hot branding iron…” (1 Timothy 4:1-2). One of the most horrific examples of these last days degradations is abortion. Today’s podcast topic is The Realities of Abortion.
This Wisdom from Above podcast is the final episode in Season #6 : Calvary's Major Figures. This episode is a biographical sketch of two followers of Christ whose dreams were shattered and hopes were smashed when Jesus was crucified. They chose to walk the seven miles from Jerusalem to Emmaus. They were without joy, without hope, and without purpose. Perhaps you can identify with them. Perhaps you are discouraged, downhearted and defeated. Maybe your dreams have been shattered. Maybe your hopes have been smashed. Maybe you feel you have no reason to keep on keeping on. In this episode you will discover that these two followers' lives were radically changed! What changed them from cheerless to joyful? What changed them from hopeless to hopeful? What changed them form directionless to purposeful? Join us for this podcast if you want to discover what radically changed their lives and what could radically change your life!
Failure is not fatal! As William Ward once said, "Failure should be our teacher, not our undertaker. It is a temporary detour, not a dead-end street." Perhaps you have been derailed. Perhaps you have failed to do something you promised. Perhaps you feel chained to less than the best. Perhaps you are living with the consequences of wanting your own way, and you have a reputation that is marred by sin. Perhaps you are rebelling against your God given authority, and you don't know how to change. Perhaps you are addicted to drugs, alcohol, food, or sex, and you can't seem to get free. Perhaps you feel unworthy of God's love. Perhaps you feel God has abandoned you or given up on you. Perhaps you are wondering if you could ever be pleasing to Him or ever be used by Him. This episode of Wisdom from Above has some great news for you! Check it out now!
Jesus Christ is a revolutionary person. I say that not because he was a radical political revolutionary. He wasn't. I say that because He makes radical changes in peoples’ lives. Paul was changed from persecutor of Christians to preacher of Christ. The woman at the well was changed from wrecked woman to redeemed woman. Peter was changed from denying he knew Jesus to declaring His death and resurrection! Nicodemus was changed from secret disciple to stand out disciple. Mary Magdalene was changed from demonized slave to devoted servant.
In this Wisdom from Above podcast, we'll note some other examples of changed lives. First, we’ll take a broad look at the apostles! Then, well take a narrower look at Thomas. Finally, we will zero in on our own lives and we'll discover how God can radically change our lives!
She had tattered clothes, disheveled hair, sunken cheeks, and glaring eyes! She was beside herself, out of control, and throughly disturbed. Demons had seized her mind and demons possessed her body. For Mary Magdalene, there was no joy in the present and there was no hope for the future. But something happened that turned her life around! This episode of Wisdom from Above will help us understand the radical change in Mary Magdalene's life.
Perhaps sin, like a pirate, has conquered your heart and captured your soul. Perhaps you have found yourself bound by the cords of your own sin. Perhaps you feel like there is no way out and no way up. Perhaps you have no joy in the present and no hope for the future. I have some truly great news for you! You are not destined for destruction. You don't have to dread life and you don't have to fear the future. There is hope! Purpose in life is a possibility. Hope for the future can be a reality. Join me as we examine this touching scene in the drama of Calvary!
The Bible tells us that Joseph and Nicodemus were secret disciples. Just what does it mean to be a secret disciple? And what cataclysmic event was it that radically changed their lives... from secret disciples to stand up disciples? This podcast will give us insight into their lives and into our own. Carve out the time to listen to this podcast, and you will discover how you can be changed from timidity and fear to confidence and courage!
The death of Christ is one of the most significant events in all of history. The New Testament gives us a detailed description of Jesus' suffering and death. Jesus was illegally tried, falsely accused, viciously whipped, mockingly treated, and mercilessly crucified. What on earth could be good about that? And yet the day of His crucifixion is called Good Friday. Why? Without the death of Christ there would be no sacrifice for sins, no salvation for mankind, and no hope for eternity. But the impact of Christ's suffering and death goes beyond enabling us to have eternal life. The Apostle Paul said, "The love of Christ constrains me." We will never experience the deep impact of God's love until we understand the details of Christ's suffering and death. Join me as immerse ourselves in the details of Christ's suffering and death. I believe this episode could be life-changing for many!
This episode reveals Pilate's encounter with Jesus. Pilate had the power of both judge and jury, but he was filled with fear. Pilate was afraid of the mob. Pilate was afraid of going against his wife's counsel. Pilate was afraid of Caesar. Pilate was afraid to release Jesus and he was afraid to condemn Jesus. Pilate was caught between the evil schemes of Jewish leaders and the incredible innocence of Jesus character. Pilate was caught between the terrible cries of the mob and the tender appeal of Jesus. Pilate was caught between the dangerous anger of Caesar and the possibility Deity of Jesus. Jesus appeals to Pilate. Jesus appears to be the one on trial, but ultimately it is Pilate who is on trial... facing either being released from the sentence of death or being condemned to die in his sins.
Today is the 64th podcast of Wisdom from Above. This is the beginning of the 6th season, and we are going to focus on the major figures in the drama of Calvary. Easter is just a week away and many Christians all over the world have been seeking to grow deeper in their walk with God and closer in their fellowship with God. During this season we will zoom in on Peter, Pilate, Jesus, Joseph, Mary, Thomas, and others whose lives were deeply impacted during the days surrounding Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection. Today's podcast is a first-person presentation from the perspective of the Apostle Peter. Peter shares his five major regrets and he shares how we can avoid making the same mistakes that he made.
We have gone Back to the Beginning in season 5 of Wisdom from Above. In this episode, we are going to take on the whole concept of race, of racial discrimination, and of inter-racial marriage. I think all of us have all struggled with some of these questions. Did God put a curse on black people? What constitutes a race? Does the Bible promote slavery? What happened at the Tower of Babel? What does the Bible say about inter-racial marriages? Join me as we seek to find out what God says about each of these issues.
In this episode of Wisdom from Above we are investigating the events that took place immediately following the world-wide flood in the days of Noah. First, we see Noah's New Commitment to God. Secondly we see God's New Commission to Noah. Finally, we see a God's New Covenant with Noah and his family and all living creatures.
We discover some similarities between Adam and Noah. Is it ok for a man to kill an animal for food? What is God's command related to killing and eating an animal? Is it ok for a man to take another man's life? What is God's command concerning the person who murders another man? What is the significance of the Noahaic Covenant? What is the significance of the rainbow? What lessons can we learn form Noah's Ark? What three challenges come to us from Noah's sacrifice?
This Wisdom from Above podcast is the third of four podcasts on the flood that took place in the days of Noah. Many questions come to people's minds was they think about the flood... and it is our goal to try to answer those questions form the Scripture as clearly as possible. We will also quote form a few other well studied and clearly verified sources. Here4 are the seven questions we want to answer in this Wisdom form Above podcast. 1. How many animals of each kind did Noah take on the ark? 2. How could Noah get all those animals on the ark? 3. what was the duration of the flood? 4. What was the depth of the flood? 5. How could there be enough water to flood the entire earth, even to the point of covering the highest mountains? 6. What were the physical effects of the flood? 7. How was God's grace displayed in the flood? Scoffers willfully ignore the flood. Those who truly seek the truth will want to hear this episode of Wisdom form Above!
In this episode of Wisdom from Above, Dr. Harlan Betz digs into the last part of Genesis 6 which reveals God's plan for Noah's ark. Noah wasn't left in the dark about how to build the ark. Noah want left to decide on his own what animals to take on the ark. God made His plan crystal clear. Noah's response is as clear as God's command! We can learn a lot from Noah in this passage of Scripture. We can also learn about God's plan for our lives. Join us for this episode as we seek continue to seek Wisdom from Above.
Welcome to Wisdom from Above. We have gone back to the beginning in Season Five. Genesis chapters three through six show the increasing depravity of man and the cancerous progression of sin. Genesis 6:1-8 talks about man reaching a point of no return. This passage explains why God chose to wipe out the world with a flood. In looking at this, I have come to realize that our view of the holiness of God is far too shallow and our view of the gravity of sin is far too weak. This passage reveals the sorrow of God over the continual evil that is lodged in men's hearts. Listen in as we discover the reasons for a world wide flood.
Wisdom from Above is in the midst of a foundational series called Back to the Beginning. We have conducted a five-part investigative study of Creation vs Evolution in Genesis chapters 1 and 2. This episode concludes a three-part study of the Fall of Man in Genesis chapter 3. In part one we discovered Satan's method is deceit and his target is the mind. In part two we discovered the four steps of temptation and sin: attraction, contemplation, disobedience, destruction.
Now we are seeking to understand God's Judgment on sin. Is it a big deal to rebel against God? Does God really care all that much about whether or not we do what is right? What was the judgment on Satan? What was the judgment on Eve? What was the judgment on Adam? What was cursed and what wasn't cursed? Where is God's grace in the midst of this judgment? How does this impact our lives today?
This episode of Wisdom from Above is incredibly practical and genuinely helpful. In order to truly understand all that is happening in the temptation and fall of man in Genesis 3, we dig into God's revelation in James 1:14-15. This passage in James reveals the four steps of temptation and sin. But that is just the first half this episode. We don't stop with understanding the pattern of temptation and sin, we go on to discover five things we can do to avoid temptation and to be victorious in our Christian walk. Join us in this insightful study and gain some Wisdom from Above.
Who is Satan? Why did he lose his position in heaven? What are Satan's two major goals? What is Satan's strategy? How does the Bible describe Eve's disobedience? How does the Bible describe Adam's disobedience? Join us as we discover the answers to those questions. Our major battle is not with flesh and blood, but with principalities, and powers, and spiritual forces of wickenedess. This Wisdom from Above podcast reveals four challenges that will enable us to be victorious in our spiritual battle.
Wisdom from Above is presenting a foundational season called Back to the Beginning. Our goal in this first section has been to investigate the evidence for creation and evolution. We have looked at the basics of creation, the beliefs of evolution, and the bones of contention (ie.e. the missing links).
In today's episode, we are focusing on the need of man, the creation of woman, and the betrothal of the man and woman. What was so bad about Adam being alone? How did God create the woman? What is the significance of the term "helper?" What is God's design for marriage? Join us as we seek to discover the fascinating plan of God and the foundational principles of marriage.
Wisdom from Above is thrilled to bring you this second part of The Missing Links. Many of you have seen the charts and diagrams showing the gradual progression from prosimian primate to modern man. You have heard about the transitional fossils that have been discovered... Ramapithecus-Sivapithecus, Australopithecus ("Skull 1470" and "Lucy"), Sinanthropus Pekinensis ("Peking Man" and "Nellie"), Pithecanthropus Erectus ("Java Man"), Nebraska Man, Eanthropus Dawsoni ("Piltdown Man" and "Dawn Man"). Are any of these truly ancestors to modern man? Are any of these a transitional link between prosimian primates and modern man?
Join us for this fascinating investigation. Discover what lengths many evolutionary scientists have gone to in order to support their evolutionary theory. Find out what evolutionists have admitted about the missing links! Don't miss this gripping episode of Wisdom from Above.
This episode of Wisdom from Above explores the evidence for evolution. Evolutionists believe that every form of life evolved from some previous form of life that in turn evolved from some inanimate substance that existed for some unknown reason and changed for some unknown reason.
The evidence evolutionists need to support their theory is transitional fossils that show the gradual change from lower life forms into more highly complex life forms. In contrast, the evidence the creationists need to support the claims of the Bible is a fossil record showing complex forms of life appearing suddenly in a great variety of forms, with no transitional forms between the major taxonomic groups.
In this episode we will examine the fossil record of the first five major evolutionary transitions from one taxonomic group to another. We will also consider carefully what the committed evolutionists say about the evidence of transitional fossils.
Far too many Christians have been conformed in their thinking to this world rather than being transformed in their thinking by the Word of God. They have accepted the reasoning of man and rejected the revelation of God! Let’s face it… far too many people are more influenced by the worldly thinking around them than by the Biblical truth before them! Most people are willing to accept the claims of evolutionists without really getting any hard evidence for those claims.
We have lots of questions for those who believe in evolution to answer in this episode of Wisdom from Above. Question #1: Is science always right? Question #2. Is evolution scientifically supportable? Question #3: What do evolutionists propose? Question #4: Is there a transition from one lower kind to another higher kind through mutations?
You better get ready to get a good grip on reality because this episode will blow you right out of the waters of evolutionary thinking.
Wisdom from Above is going Back to the Beginning in season five. "Creation vs Evolution" has always been a hotly debated topic. In this second episode we are investigating the basics of creation. This episode will reveal the order of creation, the time of creation, and the nature of reproduction. This episode will blow the lid off of any idea that the Bible an evolutionists can be saying the same thing.
Wisdom from Above is going "Back to the Beginning" for Season five. We are going to investigate the first few chapters of the first book of the Bible. Genesis is the first book of the Bible and Genesis is foundational to our faith. We will discover answers to life's most important questions about origin, meaning, morality and destiny as we go through these chapters. Where did I come from? Why am I here? What is right and wrong? What happens after I die? In today's podcast, we will look at the first verse of the Bible. This verse sets the stage for the first chapter of Genesis and it lays a foundation for our "Back to the Beginning" study.
Who is the author of Genesis? What is the date of Genesis? What is the purpose of Genesis? What is the nature of Genesis? Is it history or religious or science or imagination or just what is it? How does Genesis 1 fit with science? What truths can we discover in this chapter? Join me as we search for truth in Genesis 1:1.
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Far too many people are trying to leave Christ out of Christmas. They want the world to settle for a Holiday tree, Holiday lights, and a Holiday celebration. They want to act like Christmas is just a shopping holiday and is all about mistletoe and malls, Santa and elves, food and gifts. They try to legislate against Christ-centered decorations and songs. They try to erase Christ from Christmas. It is critical that we remember the reason for the season. This Wisdom from Above podcast reminds us of the reasons why it is so important to keep Christ as the central focus of Christmas!
Sadly, instead of looking at the Bible, the church has looked to Christmas songs and Christmas cards for its Christmas theology. Many believe three kings came from the East to worship Jesus. That is not true. Many thank those men who came from the East followed a star all the way to Jerusalem. That is not true. Many also believe that the star led them to the stable where Jesus was born and placed in a manger. That is not true. If you want the true story, join us for this podcast where we will go beyond the reasoning of man to the revelation of God.
One of the classic Christmas songs asks a probing question: "What gift can we give to a little boy, a little boy born in a manger? What gift can we bring him? What gift can we give to a little boy king?" Unfortunately, that Christmas song doesn’t give us the full answer. Oh sure, it talks about love and brotherhood, peace and good will toward men; and those are good gifts; but it falls short of what we can actually give to the little boy king. What gift can we give to Jesus? I believe we can find the answer to that question in the story of the Wise men in Matthew chapter 2.
One of the Dangers Infiltrating the Church is the denial of the virgin birth of Jesus. Wisdom from Above is focusing on Matthew's Christmas trilogy from the Gospel of Matthew chapters 1 and 2. Today's episode is titled, "Why is the Virgin Birth so Important?" Join us as wew look at the four major objections to the virgin birth and as we discover the vital importance of the Virgin birth.
The theme for season four of Wisdom from Above is Dangers Infiltrating the Church. Among those dangers are a rejection of the prophecies of Christ's birth, a rejection of the method of Christ's birth, and a distortion of the events of Chrtist's birth. So we are focusing on a Christmas mini-series for December 2021. This episode is designed to answer the question, "Why is the Genealogy of Jesus such Good News?"
Belief in the inspiration and inerrancy of the Bible is a watershed issue. If we give up the belief that the Bible is true is all it says, then everything in the Bile is questionable and can be thrown out. Belief in the accuracy and authority of the Bible is like the lead domino in a line of dominoes standing on end... knock down the first domino and all the other will eventually fall.
When you compromise on the Bible, you clear the path for rejecting all the other things the Bible teaches. This episode highlights seven dangers infiltrating the church because of a compromised view of the Bible.
Legend has it that Colonel William Travis drew a line in the sand with his sword and asked his men to choose their fate: surrender and leave the Alamo or stay with Travis and defend the mission till their death.
In this episode of Wisdom from Above I am drawing a line in the sand. We must either stand for the Bible as truth, or we will have no foundation for our faith, or for the faith of this next generation.
Progressive Christianity is infiltrating the church. In line with the postmodern belief in relativism, Progressive Christianity has rejected the concept of absolute truth. In line with the postmodern belief in skepticism, Progressive Christianity values questions more than answers. In line with the postmodern belief in subjectivism, Progressive Christianity values experience over doctrine.
One of the errors promoted by Progressive Christianity is contemplative Prayer. Richard Foster's book, A Celebration of Discipline, is a foundational book for most Progressive Churches. Two of the major ideas promoted in his book are Foster's reconstructed "Spiritual Disciplines" and "Contemplative Prayer."
This episdode of Wisdom from Above explores the background, components, techniques, and goals of Contemplative Prayer. Some of what you learn in this episode will be shocking. We all need to be aware of the dangers of Contemplative Prayer because it is slowly infiltrating into more and more churches.
Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life; no man comes to the Father, except through me" (John 14:6). Is that a statement of exclusivity as traditional historic Christianity has always believed? It certainly looks like Jesus is saying He is the only way to the Father. Whoever believes in Jesus has eternal life. Whoever does not believe in Jesus does not have eternal life. That clearly sounds like a statement of exclusivity. But Progressive Christianity says just the opposite. Progressive Christianity says this verse is a statement of inclusivity. How can that be?
When we read that God so loved the world, traditional historic Christianity would say that means God loves all the people in the world. But Progressive Christianity says it means something entirely different than that. They say it means God loves this planet... the land and water, the plants and trees, the animals and man? Is that right? Is that why Jesus came to earth? Is that the gospel?
Join us in this fascinating look at a couple worldview shaping doctrines... what we believe about hell and what we believe about salvation.
Season 4 of Wisdom from Above is focusing on Dangers Infiltrating the Church. The first danger we are looking at is postmodernism. Postmodernism is characterized by relativism, skepticism, and subjectivism. Postmodernism is infiltrating the church through Progressive Christianity.
In Episode 1 of Season 4, we saw that Progressive Christianity undermines the inspiration and inerrancy of the Scripture.
In this second episode of Wisdom from Above we are going to discover what Progressive Christianity has to say about the doctrines of God and Jesus and Sin and Substitutionary Atonement. Hold onto your hat because in this episode you might feel like the storm chaser who is leaning directly into the eye of a storm.
Podcast #40. The theme of this fourth season is Dangers Infiltrating the Church. We live in a post-modern world that is characterized by skepticism, subjectivism, and relativism. Those three characteristics have impacted the culture, the church and Christianity. Progressives have a strong commitment to present Christianity in a way that makes sense to our postmodern culture. They believe the church needs to continue to evolve to keep up with culture and to reach this next generation. Unfortunately, though what they crave is good, what they create is bad. It is good to want to reach new youth; but it is bad to reject historic truth. It is good to be relevant; but it is bad to be wrong! There is a great danger in allowing culture to be more authoritative than Scripture. Progressive Christianity is doing just that. They are failing to stand for truth as truth. In line with the postmodern belief in relativism, they reject the concept of absolute truth. In line with the postmodern belief in skepticism, they value questions more than answers. In line with the postmodern belief in subjectivism, they have come to value experience over doctrine. In this episode we are focusing on how these dangerous ideas are weakening the historic view of the Bible.
In our last episode we rejected the Critical Race Theory (CRT) worldview in favor of the Biblical worldview. Some might think that if a person rejects CRT, then they really do not care about the injustice of racism and oppression. But that is not true. Those who hold the Biblical worldview do care about justice. In fact, we care deeply about justice. As Micah declared, "What does the Lord require of thee... but to do justice and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God." CRT theorists believe in secular social justice; Bible believers hold to Biblical social justice. This episode highlights the distinctions between secular social justice and Biblical social justice. This is another Distinction Worth Knowing.
Season 3 of Wisdom from Above is entitled Distinctions Worth knowing. This podcast is dedicated to determining the distinction between the Critical Race Theory worldview and the Biblical worldview.
The distinctions are glaring because the CRT worldview sees the problem as a breakdown in the horizontal relationships between mankind, while the Biblical worldview sees the problem as a breakdown in the horizontal relationships between man and God.
The distinctions are great because the CRT worldview finds hope in self, state, and society, while the Biblical worldview finds hope in God.
The distinctions are gigantic because the CRT worldview is based on the reasoning of man, while the Biblical worldview is based on the revelation of God.
CRT is being pushed and promoted in many universities, many workplaces, many schools, and even in many churches. Join us as we discover the important distinctions between the CRT worldview and the Biblical worldview.
Season 3 of Wisdom from Above is focusing on Distinctions Worth Knowing. This episode will distinguish between what John Calvin taught and what the Bible teaches. Calvinism has five main points. They are most often remembered by the acronym TULIP. T = Total Inability. U = Unconditional Election. L = Limited Atonement. I = Irresistible Grace. P = Perseverance of the Saints. These points are all very logical, but the critical question is this, "Are they Biblical?" If we truly want to go beyond the reasoning of men to the revelation of God, we must search the Scriptures. In this episode we summarize the Calvinistic teaching of these five points and then we turn to the Bible to see what it says about these five points. Calvinism is a clear presentation of intellectual logic, but it is not a clear presentation of Biblical truth. There are many very straightforward passages of Scripture that indicate we should reject all five points of Calvinism. Join us as we investigate the distinction between Calvinism and Biblicism.
To bless Israel or not to bless Israel... that is the question. Should I bless Israel? Should America bless Israel? If the answer is "yes," then why is it "yes"? What are the reasons why I should bless Israel? What are the reasons why America should bless Israel? Let me make it clear. I think the answer is "yes!" We should bless Israel. I want to take a few minutes to give the reasons for blessing Israel... cultural reasons, diplomatic reasons, military reasons, and financial reasons. Then, having looked at those reasons, I want to top off this podcast with nine Biblical reasons why we should bless Israel. Hold onto your hat, because are going to fly through these reasons. In the end, I think you will join me in blessing Israel!
Wisdom from Above has been looking at Distinctions Worth Knowing. Today's topic is the distinction between Israel and the church. Who is Israel? What was Israel promised? Who is the church? When did the church begin? Has God rejected Israel? Has the church replaced Israel in the program of God? Are there any promises in the Scripture that indicate God has a plan for the nation of Israel in the future? What is replacement theology? Is replacement theology based upon a literal interpretation of Scripture? Join us as we dig into this timely topic.
The Arab-Israeli conflict has raged for centuries. One of the central disputes is whether the Arabs as descendants of Abraham and Ishmael or the Jews as descendants of Abraham and Isaac have the legitimate claim to the land of Israel. In order to determine the rightful owner of the title to the Holy Land, we must look at the historical records. We will look at the historical records of the Bible and the historical records of antiquity. We will not settle for emotional claims of oppression, or preposterous claims of refugees. or unmitigated claims of the racists. We want to know what the Bible says. We want to know what history reveals. Join us as we try to untangle this dispute about the title to the land that is called Israel and as we seek to gain Wisdom from Above.
Today's podcast is a follow up of last week's podcast on the Law of Christ. The question was raised by a listener... "What if an authority asks us to do something wrong? Is it ever ok to disobey an authority? That is a great question. To obey or not to obey, that is the question.
Is it ever ok to disobey an authority? I believe the answer from the Bible is 'Yes!" The next question we must ask is "How can we know when it is ok to disobey our human authority?"
In this episode we will discover how to know when it is right to disobey a human authority. Today's podcast will look at three examples from the New Testament and at least six examples from the Old Testament where individuals willfully chose to disobey a governmental authority and God blessed them for their choice.
The last episode of Wisdom from Above distinguished between the two extremes fo licentiousness and legalism. We discovered that we want to find a balance of grace and truth. We want to avoid the extremes of licentiousness and legalism. We want to experience a liberty that is expressed in love for God and others. But the questions still remains, "How can I know what I am supposed to do? How can I, as a Christian determine God's will?" The answer is found in the law of Christ. But that brings up a new question: "What is the Law of Christ?" And once we discover the answer to that, we still need to know how we can find the power to live as we ought to live. If you want to glorify God with your life, if you want to experience life as God intended it to be experienced, if you want to enjoy intimacy with the Almighty... join us in this podcast as we examine the Law of Christ and as we seek to understand how to live out the Christian life.
In our quest to discover Wisdom From Above, we have been looking at Distinctions Worth Knowing. There are many distinctions worth knowing, and one of them is the distinction between license, liberty, and legalism. Far too many have succumbed to the peril of the pendulum and swung to one of two extremes in their approach to the Christian Life. Some have swung all the way over to license. They are being told that they are no longer under law, so they are free to ignore the law and any other rules or regulations that might cramp their style. They believe they are free to do whatever they want to do as long as it seems to be a loving thing to do. Some have swung all the way over to legalism. They are being told that in order to get saved or in order to stay saved they must deny themselves, take up their cross, submit to the Lordship of Christ, and persevere in doing good works. They are bound up by all kinds of rules and regulations declared by men and they believe they must do them in order to maintain a relationship with God. What does the Bible say? Are these two approaches to the Christian life distortions of the truth? What is true liberty in Christ? What does it mean to be free?
Wisdom form Above is seeking to go beyond the reasoning of man to the revelation of God. In Episode 8 we discovered that Satan's method is deceit and his target is the mind. In todays's episode we are exploring the four major lies Satan is using to deceive our world. Join us as we look at pantheism, reincarnationism, relativism, and esotericism.
Season three deals with Distinctions Worth knowing! We need to know the distinction between good and evil, between right and wrong, between light and darkness. We need to know that our real battle is not a battle with flesh and blood. We battle with principalities and powers of darkness! Satan has an evil strategy for our defeat. We need to know his method. We need to know his target. Join us as were investigate Satan's strategy for our defeat.
Season three of Wisdom from Above is highlighting Distinctions Worth knowing. To judge or not to judge... that is the question. We have all know that jokes said, "Judge not that you be not judged." And yet we also know the Bible says "He that is spiritual judges all things." And many also know that the Apostle Paul tells us to "Test all things" and Jesus tells us to "judge with righteous judgment." How do we resolve this seeming conflict? Are we not to judge or are we to judge. Join us for this episode of Wisdom from Above to go beyond the reasoning of man to the revelation of God... and learn with us who we are to judge, how are to judge, and why we are to judge.
Welcome to Wisdom from Above. Season 1 was focused on what's so special about the Bible. Season 2 was focused on crucial questions people ask. Season 3 is focused on distinctions worth knowing.
Episodes 4, 5, and 6 of season 3 make up a mini-series on discipleship. We have learned the meaning of a true disciple. We have discussed the three major hindrances to discipleship. In this episode we are going to dig a little deeper. Listen to this podcast as we move beyond the reasoning of man to the revelation of God and discover the seven marks of a disciple.
The Great Commission is to make disciples. Jesus wanted people to become truly devoted disciples. But many people hesitate to become fully-devoted disciples of Jesus. What are the main hindrances to discipleship? The answer is spelled out in some critical interactions Jesus had with three would-be disciples in Luke chapter 9. Turn there with me and let's discover what God has revealed about true discipleship in this next episode of Wisdom from Above!
Welcome to Wisdom from Above where we are seeking to go beyond the reasoning of man to the revelation of God. We are looking at Distinctions Worth Knowing. Is it true that Jesus challenged disciples to follow Him? Weren't they already following Him if they were called disciples? Are there different categories of discipleship? s it true that Jesus said some of His disciples deserted Him? What is Christ looking for in a true disciple? Join us as we look at three kinds of disciples. Learn where you are at in this process. Find out how you can become all God has designed you to be!
Podcast: Wisdom from Above. Season 3: Distinctions Worth Knowing. Episode 3: Three Tenses of Salvation.
Why do some passages of the Bible say salvation a free gift and other passages of the Bible say that we have to work out our salvation? That is a really critical question. The key to resolving this conflict is an understanding of the three tenses of salvation. Join us as we dig into the Bible and come up with a simple explanation of the three different ways the terms for save or salvation are used in the Bible.
Can a believer in Jesus Christ turn his back on God and break his relationship with God? Can someone who has Jesus and eternal life lose Jesus and cease to have eternal life? Can the Holy Spirit depart from a believer if that believers chooses to walk into a sinful pattern of behavior? This episode of Wisdom from Above hits one of the most important distinctions in our Distinctions Worth Knowing series. The distinction between relationship and Fellowship. I believe God makes it clear that one of these two is unbreakable! Join me as we investigate this critical distinction!
The theme for season 3 of Wisdom from Above is "Distinctions Worth Knowing!" In this premiere episode of Season 3 we are looking at the distinction between being at peace with God and experiencing the peace of God. We live in a chaotic world. People are desperate for peace. Jesus once said, "These things I have spoken unto you that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world!" How do we get peace with God? How de we experience the peace of God? Carve out twenty minutes for this podcast and find out!
What is the straight scoop on infant baptism? What is the impact of water baptism? Is water baptism essential for salvation? Jesus seemed to say that "whoever believes in Him shall not perish but has everlasting life." So He wasn't requiring baptism. He also told the believing thief on the cross that he would be with Him in paradise, and the thief was not baptized. But if baptism is not essential for salvation, then how do you explain the verse that says "baptism now saves you"? And what about the verse that says, "He who believes and is baptized will be saved"? There is so much confusion about baptism that you may wonder if there is any way to clarify the confusion. Check out this episode of Wisdom from Above! These Questions People Ask can be answered. The clouds of confusion can be blown away.
Welcome to Wisdom from Above. We are on a quest for truth! Some people say Jesus did not really die on the cross. He just fainted and went unconscious. Did Christ die on the cross? Others admit he died, but say that he did not truly rise from the dead. Did Jesus literally physically rise from the dead? What really happened? Fortunately, Christianity invites investigation. In this episode of Wisdom from Above, we put on the hat of a Crime Scene Investigator. We will examine forensic evidence, historical evidence, circumstantial evidence, and eyewitness evidence. We will discover, as the Bible declares, that there are "many convincing proofs" of the resurrection of Christ. The resurrection demands a response. I would love to know your response!
Follow Dr. Harlan Betz on all social media platforms:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drharlanbetz
Instagram: http://instagram.com/drharlanbetz
To contact Dr. Harlan Betz, please email HarlanBetz@icloud.com or visit the Wisdom from Above facebook page.
Welcome to Wisdom from Above. We are wrestling with crucial Questions People Ask. Today's episode seeks to discover answers to these questions: Why would a loving God allow suffering? Why would an all-powerful God allow evil? Why would a loving God allow bad things to happen to good people? Why doesn't God just stamp out all evil in the world? Join us as we seek to find God's answers to these crucial questions in this next episode of Wisdom from Above.
Follow Dr. Harlan Betz on all social media platforms:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drharlanbetz
Instagram: http://instagram.com/drharlanbetz
To contact Dr. Harlan Betz, please email HarlanBetz@icloud.com or visit the Wisdom from Above facebook page.
We are wrestling through the most crucial questions people ask about Christianity. In an earlier episode of Wisdom from Above we discovered that trusting in Jesus is the only way to eternal life. This raises another question. If the only way to eternal life is through trusting in Jesus, then what about those who have never even heard of Jesus? Are they condemned? Yes they are condemned. That just doesn't seem fair. No it does not seem fair. Is God unfair? No. Is God unjust? NO. Does God even care about those who have never heard of Jesus? Absolutely. So then, how do you respond to the question of those who have never heard of Christ? You are about to find out in this episode of Wisdom from Above.
Follow Dr. Harlan Betz on all social media platforms:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drharlanbetz
Instagram: http://instagram.com/drharlanbetz
To contact Dr. Harlan Betz, please email HarlanBetz@icloud.com or visit the Wisdom from Above facebook page.
Some people say that Christianity is a just psychological crutch for emotionally weak people. Some people believe that Christianity is purely subjective. Some people think Christians have created their religion to cope with their inadequacies in the present and to calm their fears about the future.Those are pretty heavy charges. Are they right? Is Christianity just a psychological crutch? In this episode of Wisdom from Above we will look at six charges that are being made and we will try to discover God's answers.
Follow Dr. Harlan Betz on all social media platforms:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drharlanbetz
Instagram: http://instagram.com/drharlanbetz
To contact Dr. Harlan Betz, please email HarlanBetz@icloud.com or visit the Wisdom from Above facebook page.
We are tackling crucial QuestionsPeople Ask in this second season of Wisdom from Above. In this episode we are hitting hypocrisy head-on. Some people have boldly claimed: "All Christians are hypocrites!" Some others have skeptically asked, "Aren't all Christians just a bunch of hypocrites?" What is the answer to that question? What is a hypocrite? Is it true that some Christians are hypocrites? What does Jesus think of hypocrisy? Is hypocrisy in the church a legitimate reason for rejecting Jesus and His message? Is all sin hypocrisy? How can I avoid being a hypocrite? Hit the play button and join us for this intriguing discussion.
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Welcome to Wisdom form Above where we go beyond the reasoning of man to the revelation of God. Todays podcast is a continuation of last week's podcast. In that episode of /wisdom from Above we discovered that a person can know for sure that they have eternal life and are going to heaven. This raised a new question: If a person is guaranteed that they are going to heaven, what keeps them from going out and living like a hell-bound pagan? That might sound funny; but it is a serious question. In this podcast we look at five reasons for not going out and living like a hell-bound pagan.
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Welcome to the Wisdom from Above podcast where we go beyond the reasonings of man to the revelation of God. In this second season we are wrestling with crucial Questions People Ask. Today's topic is: "Can anyone know for sure that they are going to Heaven?" It could also be asked this way: "Can anyone know for sure that they have eternal life?" Is Texas an option for eternal life? How can a person know for sure they have eternal life? This podcasts reveals seven reason why we can have peace like a river in our soul... even reasons why we can know it is well with our soul!
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Wisdom from Above is designed to go beyond the reasoning of man to the revelation of God. In this episode we are seeking to find an answer to the question, "How Could a Loving God send Anyone to Hell?" This is a fascinating question.
The Scripture is not silent on this question. First of all, the Bible gives us reasons to believe that the question itself is flawed, because it assumes that God sends some people to Hell. Second, the Bible makes it clear that some people will go to Hell. Thirdly, the Bible reveals five truths that give us insight into the character of God and the into the choices of individuals. You don't want to miss this episode.
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Season 2 of Wisdom from Above is wrestling with crucial "Questions People Ask." This podcast deals with the question, "Isn't Just Believing Too Easy?" When people hear someone say that all you have to do is believe in the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved and have eternal life, they immediately begin thinking, "That sounds too good to be true." Nothing of value is ever free. You don't get something for nothing." It just makes sense that in order to get to heaven you have to really do a lot of good, or at least more good than bad. Yet the Bible seems to be saying that eternal life is not by works and that it is a free gift. What is the answer? Is just believing too easy? Join us as we wrestle through this crucial question on Wisdom from Above.
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Wisdom from Above continues its passionate pursuit of truth by seeking to find answers to the most crucial Questions People Ask.
The question we are tackling in this episode is this: "Is Jesus the Only Way to Eternal Life?" Aren't all religions basically encouraging man to be good? No! Don't all religions say the same things in slightly different ways? No! Don't all religions worship the same God that Christians worship? No! Are there other ways to heaven and to eternal life besides Jesus? No! Christianity is unique among all religions. Jesus is unique among all religious leaders.
In this podcast, we will seek to reveal the uniqueness of Christianity and the uniqueness of Christ, and the reason why Jesus is the only way to eternal life.
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Wisdom from Above continues its passionate pursuit of truth by seeking to find answers to the most crucial Questions People Ask. Jesus once asked His followers, "Who do you say that I am?" This is a very important question. Is Jesus God? That is a critical question we each must answer. Our answer is a foundational factor in shaping our life and it is a crucial factor in determining our destiny. In this episode we will look at three lines of evidence that verify the deity of Jesus Christ.
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Season 2 is all about the Questions People Ask. This episode focuses on the question, "Does God exist?"
How can you know there is a God? Is there proof that God exists? We will examine the evidence that substantiates the existence of God.
Scientific quotes, historical events, physical phenomena, and personal experience are all weaved into this podcast.
We will even drop in one line of evidence that is acknowledged in the Sound of Music! You won't want to miss it!
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Do you have to check your brain at the door and give up all logic in order to accept the claims of Christianity? Absolutely not.
Is Christianity a leap into the dark? No, it is not. In fact, Christianity is a step into the light.
How should we then live? The Apostle Peter gives us God's answer in 1 Peter 3:15... be righteous, be ready, be reasonable, and be respectful!
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Many are asking if there is any support for the inspiration and inerrancy of the Scripture that can be found outside of the Bible. The answer is yes. Absolutely, yes! Three major areas of evidence will be surveyed on today's episode of Wisdom from Above: archaeology, prophecy, and history. Put on you seat belts because we are going to hit each of these topics at warp speed in today's podcast!
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Many people are troubled by claims of contradictions and errors in the Bible. In this episode of Wisdom from Above we will be investigate these claims. Some people are also asking if facts concerning history and science are inspired and inerrant, or if those concepts just apply to facts about redemption and salvation. Join us as we explore this fascinating topic of errors and contradictions in the Bible.
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This series is dealing with the question - What is so special about the Bible? In this episode we are answering the question, Are today’s texts an accurate reflection of what was originally written? We will discover that the copying of the inspired texts of Scripture were incredibly meticulous and amazingly reliable.
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This series is dealing with the question - What is so special about the Bible? Why accept it as our final authority for what we believe and for how we behave? In this episode we are answering the question, How did they decide what books to include in the Bible? We will discuss the specific guidelines that were followed in recognizing the books that were inspired by God.
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This series is dealing with the question - What is so special about the Bible? Why accept it as our final authority for what we believe and for how we behave? In this episode we will discover the incredible accuracy of the Scripture.
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This series is dealing with the question - What is so special about the Bible? Why accept it as our final authority for what we believe and for how we behave? This episode explores the meaning and importance of the inspiration of Scripture.
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What is so special about the Bible? Why give it any more credence than any other book? Why accept it as our final authority for what we believe and for how we behave? This episode reveals the human authors’ claim that they are recording a revelation from God.
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Wisdom from Above with Dr. Harlan Betz is designed to go beyond the reasonings of man to the revelation of God. Thousands of voices clamoring for our attention offer only earthly wisdom. What we desperately need is to listen to the one voice offering heavenly wisdom. We need to listen to God, and He speaks to us through the Bible. In order to discover this wisdom from above, we will be digging into the Bible and discovering its truths... truths about life and death, truths about meaning and morality, truths about time and eternity. I invite you to join me in this passionate pursuit of wisdom.
Follow Dr. Harlan Betz on all social media platforms:
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To contact Dr. Harlan Betz, please email HarlanBetz@icloud.com or visit the Wisdom from Above facebook page.