BuildingUp from Agape Church: Recent Episodes
Agape Church
Psalm 56:13In this episode - we are encouraged to remember how good God has been in delivering us from death and to bring our offering of thanks before him.
Psalm 55:22-23In this episode - we look at what it means to cast our burdens onto the Lord. And we consider how this relates to the promise of Jesus to give rest to all who look to him.
John 16:7In this episode - We look into the astounding statement of Jesus in John 16:7. How could it possibly be for our benefit that Jesus would return to the Father and no longer be visible to his followers on the earth?
1 Colossians 1:24In this episode - We seek to understand what Paul meant when he said that he was filling up what is lacking in the afflictions of Christ.
Psalm 8In this episode - part of our Praying the Psalms series - we take a look at Psalm 8 and consider how Prayer & Praise is the strength of God's people.
Psalm 5As we prepare for a new preaching series that will focus on using the Psalms as a guide to our prayers, we put this into practice using Psalm 5. Here we are led to meditate on the Lord's title of "King and God". As well as what separates those who are unable to dwell with God from those who enter His home. We also learn to pray for God's protection over us, but ponder our motivation for doing so.
James 1:21Wickedness causes chaos, confusion, and conflict in every relationship we have. Too often we try to resolve the symptoms of wickedness through our own strength, thinking that we can change people and situations. But here in James 1 we are reminded that only God's word can truly bring about the righteousness that leads to peace. And in order to enjoy the fruit His word grows in us, we must be willing to listen - really listen - to what it says. Here in James 1:21 we learn that teachability is the key to godliness.
Psalm 32Many believers find it difficult to pray, either making the time to pray OR knowing what to pray. On this episode we talk about how a personal "21 days of prayer" can help you establish godly habits. And how the Psalms offer us a beautiful guide on what to pray. We use the example of Psalm 32 to pray about forgiveness of sins, a softened heart, and deliverance from what binds us.
Colossians 2:9-10Why should we give ourselves to a routine of prayer & fasting? Certainly there are many biblical answers to this, including mere obedience. But scripture also shows us the promise of reward that comes with setting aside our normal schedule & pursuing Jesus. One of those rewards is that we will grow in power when we pray. So, wait - we fast & pray so that we can become more fruitful when we fast & pray? Yes!! Join us on this episode of the podcast as we think through this idea together.
Colossians 4:2Join us as we talk about this year's month of prayer at Agape church, which will begin on September 3rd. What is it, why do we do it, and how can you participate?
Colossians 1:15-20One of the great gifts of life is to have access to a mentor who loves you and works to fill you with knowledge and help you navigate the challenges of a responsibility, career, or interest that you have taken on. It is that type of access that gives you peace in your frustrations, calms your anxiety, and makes your advancements that much more rewarding. In Colossians 1 we read one of the most majestic passages about Jesus in all of scripture. There we learn that everything in creation is sourced in, responsible to, and held together by Jesus. And when we realize that this same Jesus calls for us to come and abide with him, learn from him, and get our help from him - this changes everything about our often confusing and challenging life.
James 2:8, Colossians 1:16In the 1950's in Birmingham, Alabama ordinances were signed into law that prevented people of different races from assembling together - even for normal activities such as eating or playing. This stands in stark contrast to the Royal Law of Love established by God: "Love your Neighbor as yourself". Today we still find ourselves tempted to judge others by some external attribute - whether race, economics, politics, or personal preference. The church must embrace this Royal Law, as we consider the commonality
Colossians 1:9In Colossians 1 we see several mentions of Paul and other leaders praying for the church. Here we learn about the type of prayers, the timing of the prayers, and the subject of the prayers going up for Colossae. This serves as a model for all of us. Each member of a local church should see it as part of their ministry to pray for the church and its members. Certainly some of those prayers should be for practical needs and concerns. But more than that, we should be praying for one another's spiritual needs and asking for each one to be filled with God's knowledge, understanding, and wisdom.
Epaphras is called a "faithful Minister of Christ" on behalf of the Colossians. Often we think about church leaders as the Ministers who are called to be faithful. While that is true, the rest of the story is that we have all been called into a ministry. Not only called, but Christ has placed us in certain people's lives, certain careers, certain churches that we would do specific good works that glorify Him. It is important that we view our lives in this way and also that we continually abide with Jesus that he might make us grow more and more faithful.
1 Peter 3:9In God's grand design, His people - filled with His Spirit - are the primary means by which He blesses the earth. Our journey to live into this design begins by abiding with Christ. As we seek and spend time with Him, God will bless others through us (often without our realizing it). But there is also an intentional aspect in which we are called to lay down our desires to "repay evil with evil" and instead seek to do acts that will bring blessings to those around us.
Ephesians 5:15-16Reflection is part of life. We reflect on seasons, relationships, and sometimes failures. We ponder what we could have or should have done differently. But reflection can lead to suffocating regret that keeps us tied up in shame and sorrow. While the true value of reflection is to let our acknowledged failures lead to new motivation and growth.
From 1 Peter 4Scripture teaches that each true believer has been entrusted with at least one spiritual gift for the purpose of glorifying God and building up the church. One of the most common questions a Christ follower will ask is, "How do I discover my gift"? And while a spiritual gifts test is a common response, there is far more sure way for us to seek out this answer from God.
Community with other believers in a local church should be something that is very important to us. But developing connections is often difficult. So often we try to build community through temporal means such as like personalities, hobbies, life seasons, or family dynamics. But Jesus teaches us in John 15 that believers (branches) are only truly connected through Him (the vine). And it is that unity that will stand the test of time and trials. How then do we as a church seek to build community through a common love for Jesus?
The foundation of generosity is grace. God has been kind to all the earth, so all people have the chance to share what they have with others. But believers who take the time to meditate on the riches of God’s kindness, even in the midst of their often difficult routines, truly understand grace and are ready to share it with others.
Each believer has been uniquely gifted to make Christ known and advance His Kingdom through love and good works. God sovereignly places us in the right opportunities at the right time to faithfully complete his mission for us. But with this mission, there will also be unique trials that we will need one another to overcome.
God instructs His people to develop the habit of regular gatherings for the purpose of worship & exhortation. But they are not to merely attend these gatherings, but to engage in them with sincere hearts. What can we do in order to make sure our hearts are best prepared for times of corporate worship?
Through Jesus, we are given the divine privilege of drawing near to God. But often, we do not take advantage of what Christ has offered. Many times we lack confidence that we truly belong in God's presence. What causes this lack of boldness and how do the scriptures seek to correct our thinking?
On this Episode of the podcast we discuss the upcoming sermon series on the Parables of Jesus. Why did Jesus use parables in teaching? What should we consider as we study the Parables?
On this Episode of the podcast we do a deep dive into two more of the 7 Themes for Agape's Month of Corporate Prayer: Witness (Making Christ known) and Spirit (Asking for Spiritual Gifts).
On this Episode of the podcast we do a deep dive into 2 of the 7 themes for Agape's month of corporate prayer: Worship (Love for God) and Harmony (Love for one another).
We are getting ready to begin this year's call to a time of corporate prayer and fasting. This episode of the podcast reflects on the origins of the "7 Prayers for Agape" as well as this year's theme and some thoughts on fasting.
The Bible tells us that God provides His Spirit to help His people in their weakness, including when they have difficulty praying. What kind of weakness may we experience when we try to pray and what type of help does the Spirit provide?
Many Christians struggle with both making time to pray as well as finding joy when they do pray. What does the Bible show us is the primary purpose of prayer? And how can understanding that purpose, increase our delight in praying?
From Proverbs 30, this Episode explores the words of Agur, including wise thoughts on human limitations, the word of God, and the only prayer we find in Proverbs.
From Proverbs 31 we wrap up this series with thoughts on leadership, the Fear of the Lord, and how we should interpret the writings about an excellent wife.
This Episode looks at how God uses the wise sayings to give us understanding about our lives; as well as looks at the wisdom of loving and listening to God's word.
From Proverbs 29, this Episode deals with leadership; specifically the joy that comes from wise leaders who build up others in truth.
From Proverbs 27, this Episode deals with what a person can learn about themselves when they are praised, and the importance of being tactful even when trying to bless someone.
From Proverbs 26, this Episode deals with how and when to address someone who is foolish, as well as the impact of gossip on conflicts and quarrels.
From Proverbs 24, this Episode looks at how the wise are called to engage with the fallen world around them and specifically those who do evil.
From Proverbs 25, this Episode answers the question: "Can you have too much of a good thing?" And looks at how the wise should address conflict with their neighbor.
From Proverbs 23, this Episode looks at Proverbs that speak about working too much, arguing with the foolish, and the community impact of personal sin.
From Proverbs 22 & 23, this Episode looks at Proverbs that relate to parenting and the discipline of children.
From Proverbs 21, this Episode looks at Proverbs that relate to the pursuit of treasure and the generosity of the wise.
From Proverbs 20, this Episode looks at Proverbs that deal with the relationship between the Discernment of man and the Providence of God.
From Proverbs 18, this Episode looks at Lessons for living wisely in life and community.
From Proverbs 19, this Episode looks at Proverbs related to pursuing desires and making plans for the future.
From Proverbs 17, this Episode looks at the themes of interpersonal conflict and how wisdom impacts households, families, and friendships.
From Proverbs 16, this Episode looks at the power of persuasive and gracious speech and also explores the relationship between the plans of man and the Sovereignty of God.
From Proverbs 14, this Episode covers the themes of Wisdom (discernment) vs Folly (recklessness) as well as themes related to the emotions of the heart.
From Proverbs 15, this Episode covers themes surrounding communication. This includes the wisdom of responding to others well (even in conflict). As well as the theme of receiving instructions from others well, even when it involves correction.
From Proverbs 12, this Episode covers the themes of the works of the wise vs the works of the foolish, as well as the theme of the heart (where our thoughts, words, and actions begin).
From Proverbs 13, this Episode covers the themes of correction (receiving counsel), sowing and reaping, and the theme of desires and hope.
From Proverbs 10, this Episode covers the themes of apathy and diligence, accepting correction, and the speech of the wise compared to the speech of the fool.
From Proverbs 11, this Episode covers the themes of the danger of slander, deliverance through wise counsel, and the life-giving benefit of generosity and good deeds.
There are two great errors that we can fall into as a Christ follower. One is to think that works earn us favor with God. The other is to believe that works are of no consequence at all. If we are saved and then grow spiritually by grace through faith alone, then what role do works have?
Believers feel the sting of temptation every day. Stirred up by the enemy of our soul and the corruption around us, our flesh craves that which is sinful. But scripture promises that God has given us a helper - the Holy Spirit - to work on our behalf. So how does the Spirit practically help us when we face down the seduction of sin?
On this episode of the podcast we continue our discussion from last week on the topic of Total Forgiveness. The majority of the forgiving that we will have to do in our lives will be daily with the people closest to us. But what does it mean to actually forgive someone? What does it look like practically? On this episode of the podcast we talk about 5 characteristics of Total Forgiveness.
The Bible calls Christians to forgive just as God has forgiven us in Christ. But releasing others from the hurt they have caused us is often a very difficult thing. And sometimes even understanding what it means to forgive someone can be rather confusing. In this episode of the podcast we talk about 5 things that the call to Total Forgiveness IS NOT.
Many Christians who want to go deeper in God's word will utilize the help of a daily devotional. What should you look for when choosing one of these resources? How can they help you to spiritually grow and are there ways in which they could actually hinder that growth?
We all face trials. Even right now you are likely walking through some kind of difficulty that is challenging your faith. But God promises you that He knows what you are going through and He knows exactly how to bring you out of it. And this reality should fill you with hope and cause you to stay close to Him!
Jesus tells us that it will cost us something to follow him. Everyday, true believers experience that cost. What is it? How does our willingness to follow in-spite of it assure our hearts of salvation? And how is the way Jesus presented discipleship different from our modern day evangelism?
Music is a powerful gift from the LORD and songs are one way the people of God can express thanksgiving together. What does corporate singing do for the church and how can we make the most of our times of musical worship?
Part of Christian growth is learning to take advantage of every opportunity you are given to share about Jesus with someone. How does being aware of all of God's good works and gifts lead to a lifestyle of telling people about the beauty of God?
Remaining in relationship with other believers is hard and we often find ourselves up against all types of opposition when we try it. Why is being in a discipling community so important for a Christian? And how is it different from other types of relationships we may find ourselves in?
One of this year's 7 prayers for Agape is asking the LORD to help us become a Lighthouse to our community. What characteristics of a Christian's life will cause them to shine brightly to the world? Likewise, what characteristics will darken that light?
One of this year's 7 prayers for Agape is asking the LORD for Zeal in the Church. How does the Bible define zealousness? What will zeal in the church look like? What kind of good works should we be zealous for?
One of this year's 7 prayers for Agape is asking the LORD for Power in the Church. What is the means by which God does mighty works of power in our lives, our families, and in our church? What are some examples of mighty works that we long for God to do?
In the fall of 2017 we began what has become a yearly prayer initiative called "7 prayers for Agape". What were the origins of this call to prayer? Why do we keep doing it each year? And why do we think it has made all the difference for our church?
Psalm 121 is A Sojourner’s Psalm as They Travelled to Jerusalem. As we walk through this Psalm, we get a clear pictures of the characters of the God who shepherds us and we see how the psalmist says in Psalm 23 that “I fear no evil, for He is with me.”
In culture, being open to reason means you are willing to listen and be persuaded by a fair argument. But Christians are supposed to hold steady and firm in our faith and not be moved from it by persuasive speech. So what is the Bible instructing us to do when it tells us to be reasonable people? What is the difference in being open to reason culturally vs biblically?
In Acts 5 we find one of the most mysterious, even frightening passages in all of the New Testament. A story about members of the early church who lie to God and the LORD immediately deals with them and they perish. While the Bible does not give us a definitive answer as to why God chose to do this, there are some clues in the text that will help us understand this passage and how we can apply it to our own lives.
1 John 4:17-18 (ESV) | "17 By this is love perfected with us, so that we may have confidence for the day of judgment, because as he is so also are we in this world. 18 There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love."
2 Timothy 1:7 | ... for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.
Luke 18:1-8 (ESV) | 1 And he told them a parable to the effect that they ought always to pray and not lose heart. 2 He said, “In a certain city there was a judge who neither feared God nor respected man. 3 And there was a widow in that city who kept coming to him and saying, ‘Give me justice against my adversary.’ 4 For a while he refused, but afterward he said to himself, ‘Though I neither fear God nor respect man, 5 yet because this widow keeps bothering me, I will give her justice, so that she will not beat me down by her continual coming.’” 6 And the Lord said, “Hear what the unrighteous judge says. 7 And will not God give justice to his elect, who cry to him day and night? Will he delay long over them? 8 I tell you, he will give justice to them speedily. Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?”
Hebrews 12:7-11 | "7 It is for discipline that you have to endure. God is treating you as sons. For what son is there whom his father does not discipline? 8 If you are left without discipline, in which all have participated, then you are illegitimate children and not sons. 9 Besides this, we have had earthly fathers who disciplined us and we respected them. Shall we not much more be subject to the Father of spirits and live? 10 For they disciplined us for a short time as it seemed best to them, but he disciplines us for our good, that we may share his holiness. 11 For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it."
Romans 5:6-11 | "6 For while we were still weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. 7 For one will scarcely die for a righteous person—though perhaps for a good person one would dare even to die— 8 but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. 9 Since, therefore, we have now been justified by his blood, much more shall we be saved by him from the wrath of God. 10 For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, now that we are reconciled, shall we be saved by his life. 11 More than that, we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation."
Philippians 2:12-13 - "12 Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, 13 for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure."
Colossians 1:3-5 - "3 We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, 4 since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love that you have for all the saints, 5 because of the hope laid up for you in heaven. Of this you have heard before in the word of the truth, the gospel..."
Colossians 3:16 - 16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.
In this episode, we look at the secret to finding contentment whether we are in a season of plenty or a season of need.
Daniel 6
In this episode David leads us through a Biblical look at civil disobedience considering the text of Daniel 6.
In this episode Kevin Small looks at Ephesians 4:29 and considers the power and purpose of our words.
What is the basis of your perspective? Does it have the right effect on your outlook and approach?
What causes temptation to quickly grow up in our lives? What practical steps can we take to stunt its growth?
What principles does the Bible give us for dealing with weariness? How do we practically apply these when we feel overwhelmed?
In this episode we ask: Why does the Bible tell us that flattery can be dangerous to spiritual growth? What is the Biblical alternative to help us build each other up?
In this episode we ask: Why should we not long for corporate worship? What is the danger of letting corporate worship become mechanical and routine?
In this episode we ask: How do wise people respond to correction? How can I become a more teachable person?
In this episode we ask: What is something I can do to help my prayer times not seem so scattered or lost?
In this episode we ask: How do go through a trial faithfully? This applies to our current ‘Coronavirus’ trial as well as all trials in general.
In this episode we ask: How do go through a trial faithfully? This applies to our current ‘Coronavirus’ trial as well as all trials in general.
In this episode we ask: What do I do when anxiety attacks? What does it mean to Pray Without Ceasing?
In this episode we ask the questions: Why is obeying God so hard? What does God really expect of us? What should be the Christian’s goal regarding obedience?
In this episode we ask the questions: What is church membership? Do we see it in the Bible? And how does church membership benefit us spiritually?
In Episode 1 of the BuildingUp Podcast we will begin looking at Spiritual Growth, reading Jude 1:20.