The Focus Point Podcast: Recent Episodes
The Focus Point
The Focus Point offers podcast episodes, blog posts and videos to help keep Jesus as the focus point.
EPISODE DETAILS: Over the years, two questions that I have often got about the Bible are 1) Where do I start reading the Bible? and 2) How do I understand it all? These questions are good. Where to start reading the Bible is a solid question. It is hard to know where to start with such a big book. Then understanding the Bible is another great question and speaks to the point that the Bible can be hard to understand and confusing at many points. In the episode , I hope to provide a little bit of an answer to these questions. SERIES NOTE: It is important to note here that the episodes in this series are going to be presented in their original form.
BIBLE PASSAGES USED: 2 Timothy 3:16 and Hebrews 4:12a
OTHER RESOURCES:
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Download the free YouVersion Bible app. This is a handy app that gives you the Bible on your phone. The app has many different translations of the Bible. You can also take notes and highlight verses as well. It’s real handy tool.
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Start in the Gospel of John. Also check out the other gospels as well Matthew, Mark, and Luke. This will help you really understand who Jesus is and what He did for you.
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Don’t try to understand everything all at once. There is always new things to discover in the pages of the Bible. Let God help you understand the Bible. Go on a journey with Him and see what he reveals to you. But you can also grab some commentaries and books to help you.
SERIES NOTE: It is important to note here that the episodes in this series are going to be presented in their original form. EPISODE DETAILS: Why read the Bible? It’s so old and out of date. The Bible is just a bunch of rules. A list of dos and don’ts. The Bible is old fashioned. The Bible was written so long ago it can’t be relevant to us now. Why read the Bible? The Bible is boring and really isn’t all that interesting. These are some of the things that have been said about the Bible. But really when it comes to reading the Bible, it really just depends on how you look at it. BIBLE PASSAGE USED: 2 Timothy 3:16
In this final episode of our “I’ve Got The Joy” series, we are going to see encouragement from Paul on how to have a life to full. BIBLE PASSAGES USED: Philippians 4:10-23 and 2 Corinthians 11:24-27
Only 2 episodes left in our study in Philippians! In this episode, we are going get some advice from Paul on how we should “fix our thoughts”. If we do what Paul suggests in this passage, we will experience a peace that is hard to understand. BIBLE PASSAGES USED: Philippians 4:6-9
In this episode, we are going to see Paul start bringing his letter to the Philippians to a close. He begins with a few words of encouragement as well as a few reminders for them. Paul once again brings up how to handle conflict and encourages the people involved in the conflict to settle it and move on and encourages the people of the church to help them. These reminders are good for us as well. Let’s dive in! BIBLE PASSAGES USED: Philippians 4:2-5
In this episode, Paul tells us we need press on toward the goal of perfection (which we have not arrived at yet). He also encourages us to keep looking forward so we can be better tomorrow than we were today, but that remembering where we came from is part of our story. We are also encouraged to be a good example to follow and to stand strong and build our lives on the solid foundation of Jesus. BIBLE PASSAGES USED: Philippians 3:12-4:1 and Matthew 7:24-27
We are back to Philippians this week. In this episode, we are going to see Paul talk about who he was before he met Jesus and how Jesus changed his life. Also, we are going to see how knowing is not knowing. I share my story as well! Let’s dive in! BIBLE PASSAGES USED: Philippians 3:4-11. Acts 7:58, Acts 8:1 and Acts 9:1-9. Romans 10:9-13
Over the last several years, I have been pondering this idea of Jesus being fully God and fully man (human). I am sure that you have heard that said of Jesus. But as I think about it more and more, this causes a problem. I don’t mean it is a problem because that saying is false because it is 100% true. Jesus was fully God and fully man. I mean it causes a problem for us because of where we focus when we look at Jesus. Let’s dive into this thought right now! PLEASE NOTE THIS EPISODE IS PRESENTED IN ITS ORIGINAL FORM.As mentioned in the episode, here is the information about the medical condition: Hematidrosis can be “caused by extreme distress or fear, such as facing death, torture…”[1] https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/hematidrosis-hematohidrosis[1] https://www.gotquestions.org/sweat-blood-Jesus.html
In this episode, we are going to see Paul remind us of the theme of his letter and how he writes these things to keep our faith safe. Paul also warns us of 3 things that we need to watch out for as we go through life as followers of Jesus. BIBLE PASSAGES USED: Philippians 3:1-3
We are at the halfway point in our study in the book of Philippians. In this episode, we are going to be looking at 2 people (Timothy and Epaphroditus) that Paul praises for their work and efforts for Jesus. Through this praise that Paul gives these 2 people, we can see that some people examples of what Paul has been talking about in the beginning part of his letter. BIBLE PASSAGE USED: Philippians 2:19-30. WEBSITE REFERENCED in this episode: gotquestions.org
In this episode, we return to the “I’ve Got The Joy” series. We are going to be looking at the encouragement that Paul has for us as he talks about how we can shine like Christ and why light is important. Paul also discusses how we are still a work in progress and that God is with us. BIBLE PASSAGES USED: Philippians 2:12-18, Joshua 1:8, John 13:34-35, Psalm 119:105, Psalm 119:111
As we enter a one week rest following Easter, we wanted to do a special episode we simply call “Rest Episode”. In this special episode, we are going to look back at two of episodes (first and last) from a series we did in 2021 called “How To Fight Your Battles”. We are going to look at Israel crossing the Red Sea and the story of Joesph. We hope that you are encouraged by what you hear. Please note: the episodes used to make up this episode are in their original form and unedited.BIBLE PASSAGES USED: Exodus 14 and Genesis 37-50SONGS REFERENCED IN THIS EPISODE: “Surrounded (Fight My Battles)” by Michael W. Smith, 2018 and Elevation Worship “See A Victory”, 2019This episode references the lyrics of songs. The meaning of the lyrics and the songs in this episode are my own interpretation.
Saturday was silent. But Sunday is here! In this episode, we are going to look at the Resurrection story as it is recorded in the gospel of Mark. We will also be finishing our Holy Week series “For The Joy” as we also continue to look at the book of Philippians. BIBLE PASSAGES USED: Mark 16:1-8 and Philippians 2:9-11
Today is Good Friday. It is right for us to remember and reflect on what Jesus did for us on this day many years ago. In response, in this episode, we are going to spend some time looking at the Good Friday events and reading them as they are recorded in the gospel of Mark. BIBLE PASSAGES USED: Philippians 2:6-8 and Mark 14:42-15:47
Today, we are starting a Holy Week mini-series called “For The Joy”. The title of the series comes from Hebrews 12:2-3. As we go through the events of Holy Week, we will be continuing our study of the book of Philippians and will be looking at Philippians 2:3-11. We will also be looking at the Gospel accounts of the Holy Week events. In this episode, we are going to see how we can look to interest of others more the ourselves. How do we do that? The Jesus Attitude. What is the Jesus attitude? Let’s dive in together. BIBLE PASSAGES USED: Philippians 2:3-5, Hebrews 12:2-3, and Mark 11:1-11
In this episode, we are going to see how Paul recaps what he said in chapter 1. He also shows us helpful ways to reach the goal of unity with each other, other people, and any one else we are called to have unity with! Let’s dive in! BIBLE PASSAGES USED Philippians 2:1-2
In this episode, Paul shares with us that how we conduct ourselves with other people and each other is very important. Also, he shares with us how we conduct ourselves in the face of conflict (or struggles) is important too. Finally, he shares with us how we can do all of this because we have Jesus on our side! BIBLE PASSAGE USED: Philippians 1:27-30.
What would happen if we kept our focus on Jesus? How do we view our situations or circumstances differently? How do we view our work for Christ? In this episode, Paul gives us a little bit insight into these very questions. BIBLE PASSAGES USED: Philippians 1:20-26, John 15:1-8, and John 16:33
As we continue on in the I’ve Got The Joy series, we are going to be looking at how God doesn’t waste anything that happens in our life. Paul encourages us when he shares how he was in prison, God still used him when he sang songs and kept his focus on Jesus. God can use our stories no matter how they look or what is in them. Also, Paul encourages us to do things for the right reasons - heart posture - and why that is important and how we can still have joy! BIBLE PASSAGES USED - Philippians 1:12-19
In this episode of the “I’ve Got The Joy” series, we are going to be looking at the next section of Philippians 1. We are going to see how Paul encourages us that God will complete the work He starts in our lives, how are heart posture changes the way we look at people and life circumstances, and how we should be overflowing with love! Let’s dive in! BIBLE PASSAGE USED IN THIS EPISODE: Philippians 1:3-11, Luke 6:45, John 15:1-8
We are beginning our series in the book of Philippians called “I’ve Got The Joy”. In this episode, we are going to look at the backstory of the church in Phillipi. The people it was started with and the unique way the church was started. So, let’s dive in!
BIBLE PASSAGES USED IN THIS EPISODE: Philippians 1:1-2 and Acts 16:11-40
This a question that I am sure you have heard before. You might have said it yourself or you might have heard it from someone else. We have all been in a place where we have asked God this question. In this special episode, we are going to look at a story in the Bible where two sisters asked this question - directly to Jesus - and how Jesus responds is pretty shocking!
BIBLE PASSAGE USED IN THIS EPISODE: John 11 - with focus on John 11:30-37
In the final episode of the “In The End” series, we are going to be looking at the main leader of the Tribulation period. We will also be talking about the mark of the beast and what that means for the world.
BIBLE PASSAGES REFERENCED IN THIS EPISODE:
1 John 2:18
Revelation 13
Revelation 14:9-11
Revelation 15:2
Revelation 16:2
Revelation 19:20
Revelation 20:4
2 Thessalonians 2:1-12
Matthew 24:15
In this episode, we are going to look at a very real event that will happen "soon" as stated in the Bible. We are going to look at the different events and things that will happen during the Tribulation. BIBLE PASSAGES REFERENCED IN THIS EPISODE: Revelation 1 Revelation 6-19 Daniel 9:24-27 Mark 13:19-20 WEBSITE REFERENCED IN THIS EPISODE: https://bible.org/illustration/events-tribulation-period
In this episode of the “In The End” series, we are going to look at two very similar yet different events. The Bible is clear that the Rapture and the Second Coming both take place, however, they each have a purpose. Let’s dive into the Bible and see what these two events are all about! BIBLE PASSAGES REFERENCED IN THIS EPISODE: 1 Thessalonians 4:13-5:9 1 Corinthians 15:50-58 Revelation 3:10 Genesis 6-9
As we continue on in this series, we are going to be looking at 2 very real and eternal places - Heaven and Hell. The Bible is clear that both of these places are very real. In this episode, we are going to see how the Bible describes both of them.
Bible passages referenced in this episode:
HELL
Revelation 20:10, 14-15 and Revelation 21:8
Matthew 25:41, 22:13, 8:12, 3:12, 5:29-30
Mark 9:43-49
Luke 16:23-24
Daniel 12:2
2 Thessalonians 1:9
Revelation 14:10-11
HEAVEN
Revelation 21:1-4, 10-27 and 22:1-6
John 14:1-4
Matthew 5:34
Mark 16:19
Acts 7:48-49
Hebrews 8:1-2
2 Corinthians 12:1-4
This has been a topic of discussion for many many years. However, over the last year, it seems to be at a higher level. In this episode, we are going to look at the words of Jesus to answer this question that is on the minds of many people - even the minds of the people back in the time of Jesus.Bible passages used in this episode:Matthew 24:3-14
This has been an annual tradition for us. Every year I pick a word that I focus on for the coming new year. In this episode, I am going to share that word with you, why I chose the word, and share with you some of my words from past years. I am also going to share with you some of the things coming in 2024 on the podcast.
In this episode, we are going to see how the Christmas story provided some joy, not only for Linus, but for the entire Peanuts gang. We are also going to see how JOY ties back into all of the other themes of Advent we have looked at in this series because the birth of Jesus brought joy, peace, hope, and love to the world. (This episode references the 1965 TV film A Charlie Brown Christmas.)
In this episode, we are going to be looking at a character named Billy from The Polar Express. The Bible story we are going to be look at isn’t usually used during the Christmas season. But God has something to show us through both of these stories because the truth of Jesus provides real peace. (This episode references the 2004 film The Polar Express.)
In this episode, the character that we are going to look at is similar to the one from last week. However, their stories go different ways, but they end in similar fashion. We are going to see how it doesn’t matter how far somebody gets away from God - there is still hope for everyone. (This episode references multiple versions of film adaptations of Charles Dickens novel “A Christmas Carol.”)
This is one of my favorite series! I believe that God can use anything to speak to us. God can use books, people, music, billboards, THE BIBLE, and movies. In this episode, we are going to look at a familiar character - The Grinch. We are going to see how a little bit of love goes a long way and turns the Grinch’s heart around. We are also going to see the greatest act of God’s love and how it changes the game for us! (This episode references the 2000 film “How The Grinch Stole Christmas.)
In this episode we are going to be looking at the second half of Psalm 23. We are going to see that because we have a Good Shepherd our cup is full and running over!
Psalm 23 is one of the most well know passages of Scripture. In this little mini-series of episodes, we are going to look at this passage. In this episode, we will be looking at how the Shepherd provides us with the things we need - not necessarily the things we want. However, in the first 3 verses of Psalm 23, we see some specific things that the Shepherd provides and that He is also preparing us for things to come.
In this episode, we are going to look back at the entire Journey to the Promised Land series and the overall theme that we built over the course of the series. We will also be taking a look at Isaiah 43 and see what we can learn from Israel in that moment of their life. This is our combined theme for the last few series: God always keeps his promises, but we must remain faithful to him even when the future isn’t clear, because faith in God’s plans will be rewarded, so have continued, strong, and courageous faith!
In this episode, we are going to look at some final things from the book of Joshua. We will be looking at Joshua’s final speech in Joshua 23 and we will see what God has for us.
Nothing like getting a reward after a lot of hard work… it is also really good to get a chance to rest after a lot of hard work. Let’s see how the Israelites finally get that chance.
In this episode, we are going to see 3 things. How God does something for Joshua that has never been done again. How God fights for us and with us. And finally how God is what we can’t be and how God can do what we can’t do!
God doesn’t only tell us how to do battle… He goes to battle with us! Over the last few weeks as we have been in this Strong series, we have seen how God has gone to battle with the Israelite people and that other nations have taken note that God is fighting with Israel. But God also tells us how to do battle. We have a battle guide called the Bible and when we get into the Bible we can find all sorts of help for any battles we might face.
As we continue on through the book of Joshua, we are going to come to a familiar topic. We are going to see God give some clear instructions and a choice that is made by a man named Achan that his choice hurt more than just him. Choices are sacred. Choices have consequences - both good and bad. Let’s look at the story together.
You never know what is around the corner. The next step you take could be a step that leads you to completing a goal or accomplishing a dream! In today’s episode, we will take a deeper look into how the steps we take matter, as we look at the story of Jericho.
Do you have a whisper spot? If you have no idea what a whisper spot is… that’s ok! In this episode, we are going to see how Joshua hears from God and how we can as well. We just need to find a whisper spot.
We all have steps to take. The steps we take either take us toward our dreams and goals or away from our dreams and goals - or promised lands if you will. Also the steps we take either take us toward or away from God. In this episode, we are going to look at steps that the Israelites took in order to reach their goal - or Promised Land. We are also going to look back at the steps other people have taken throughout the overall story we have been looking at in the series “Journey to the Promised Land”.
God gives us reminders of how He helps us and His goodness to us. They are everywhere if we just look for them. In this episode, we are going to see the reminders that God gave Israel so they could remember how God came through for them and helped them.
In this episode, we are going to see how with God on our side we can be FEARLESS because God fights for us!
We are starting our STRONG series in the book of Joshua! We are in the homestretch of the “Journey to the Promised Land” series. In this episode, we are going to see 2 things that God wants Joshua, the people of Israel, and us to BE.
In this episode, we are going to be taking a 30,000ft view of Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. But we are also going to take some dives into the books to see some key moments in the story we have been following in the “Journey to the Promised Land” series. We are also going see how having “continued faith” can help us and how a lapse in faith can cost us as it did Moses.
In this episode, we are going to be at something God showed me while I was on vacation in Myrtle Beach. I hope that what God showed me encourages you like it be me.
In this episode, we are going to be taking a flyover look at the rest of the book of Exodus while zooming in on a few scenes in those chapters. We are going to see how God provides for us, how God instructs us, and how we need people to help up in our life - because God doesn’t want us to do life alone.
It is time to do some celebrating! There are times along our journey when we can see how God has brought us to where we are and how He has helped us get there!
As we continue on in our series in Exodus, we are at the Red Sea and Israel starts to have doubts that God is really going to help them escape the pursuing Egyptians. But we are going to see how…. 1) God keeps His promises, 2) God is with you, 3) God is a miracle worker, 4) God is a way maker, and 5) God is fighting for you! (Remember the Journey to the Promised Land theme so far… God always keeps His promises but we must remain faithful to God even when the future isn’t clear because faithfulness to God plans (dreams) will be rewarded so have continued faithfulness!)
In this episode, we are going to be looking at the 10 plagues of Egypt and what God wants us to learn from them and how God keeps His word… so we can have continued faith in Him. We will also take a brief moment and look at the final plague as the instructions for the Passover event show up in another event later in Israel’s journey to the Promised Land.
In this episode, we are going to look at how making excuses can delay our progress toward our Promised Land. Even though we know that God will be with us we still make a thousand excuses as to why we can’t do what God has asked us to do. Moses had excuses, but God has a promise.
Have you ever felt like you have made a mistake and God can’t use you because of it? Well, in this episode, we are going to see how God thinks differently about you because if you aren’t dead, God is not done with you! Also, we are going to see how God hears us - so have continued faith! Link for the episode referenced in the episode—> https://anchor.fm/focuspointpodcast/episodes/YHWH---S4-E21-e1j5qo3
In this episode, we are going to see extreme faith and trust in God. We are also going to see how faith and trust in God is rewarded. This is our combined theme for the last few series: God always keeps his promises, but we must remain faithful to him even when the future isn’t clear, because faith in God’s plans will be rewarded, so have continued faith!
As we continue on in our series “The Journey to the Promised Land”, we are starting a series in the book of Exodus! In this episode, we are going to see a promise that God made with the nation of Israel. We are also going to see how Egypt, which was once considered a promised land for the Israelites, is now more like a prison because of the fear of the new Pharaoh.
God has good plans for our lives. But we may not always understand everything that is happening until we get to where God is taking us. It is then that we look back and see how God has been with us every step of the way.
No one likes waiting… Abraham didn’t want to wait. Joseph didn’t want to wait. We don’t like to wait. But it is a part of the process. Sometimes we just have to wait for God to reveal the good He has for us!
As we continue our look at the life of Joseph, we are going to see how Joseph handles the temptation of jeopardizing his integrity to possibly get more than he already had. We will also see how this temptation to jeopardize our integrity as we pursue our dreams or goals is just as big of problem for us. Also, we are going to see how God is with us and how that helps us reach our goals without changing.
In this episode, we are going to see how people don’t always view your dreams plans or goals the same way you do. We are also going to see how important it is to remember that God is a god of dreams, and it’s important to not leave God behind as we pursue our dreams.
In this episode, we are going to lay the foundation for the “Dreams” series. We are also going to dive into the verses that we are using as the foundation for this series as we look at the life of Joseph.
We are continuing our brief look at Jacob and Esau. We are going to see how God’s plans prevail even when we don’t understand what is going on. In this episode, we are going to see a similar situation to another brother story we saw earlier in our series in the book of Genesis. We are going to see if the outcome is different or the same and what that means for us in our lives. We are also going to see how forgiveness has always been and will always be for us! (This is episode 16 in our series in the book of Genesis and this is episode 21 overall of The Journey to the Promised Land series.)
Over the next 2 episodes, we will be looking briefly at Jacob and Esau’s story. We are going to see how God keeps His promises and how God has good things for us, but our hearts need to be in the right place. We are also going to see how God’s plans for us will always prevail - even if we take steps to go our own way. You can find their entire story in Genesis 25-36. (This is episode 15 in our series in the book of Genesis and this is episode 20 overall of The Journey to the Promised Land series.)
As we bring our “Look to the Stars” series to a close, we are going to look at how Abraham has learned that God does keep His promises and that remaining faithful to God helps in the process when Abraham didn’t understand what was going on. In the same way Abraham learned this about God, we can as well. Let’s look at this part of Abraham’s and see what we can learn and how it will help us even when we don’t understand.
We are returning to the Look to the Stars series! As we continue to look at Abraham’s story we are going to see that it does pay off when we wait on God, instead of trying to help God. Because God keeps His promises, we just need to trust Him even when we don’t understand.
As we enter into a one week rest after Easter, we wanted to look back at the first episode of this year to ready our hearts and minds to continue on in the “Journey to the Promised Land” series as well as our series in the life of Abraham called “Look to the Stars”. In this episode, we will also be reminded of our word of the year JOURNEY and the passage of Scripture that goes along with it - Psalm 121.
HAPPY EASTER SUNDAY!! In the Bible, there are two trees of life. In this episode, we are going to look at both of them. We are also going to look at them in a way that was introduced to me by a sermon clip from another pastor. I hope that you are blessed and encouraged by the words in this episode!
In this episode, we are going to look at the words of the prophet Isaiah as he accounts what would happen to Jesus.
We begin Holy Week today. We celebrate Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem. This event also caused many people to realize that Jesus was indeed the Messiah.
In this episode, we are going to see how Abraham tried to help God keep His promise to him. We will see how sometimes we do the same thing and try to help God. Finally, we will also see how trying to help God can delay what God has for us.
In this episode, we are going to see how God gave Abraham a visual reminder of His promise. We will also see how this visual reminder is still available to us today.
We are starting our series in the life of Abraham. In this episode, we are going to look at what God tells Abraham to do and how what God says applies to our lives today. (This is episode 10 of the Genesis series.) (This is episode 11 of The Journey to the Promised Land series.)
As we come to a close on our first of three series in the book of Genesis, we are going to be looking at the Tower of Babel and how what is going on in the story loops back to what happened in Heaven before “in the beginning”. But we God shows us is there is a choice that we have to make along our Journey to the Promised Land. (This is episode 10 of The Journey to the Promised Land series.)
As we continue on in our series on Genesis, we are going to be looking at a familiar story. Through Noah’s story, we are going to see what an awesome God we have and how He tells us and show us how to do life. We are also going to see how He keeps His promises! (This is episode 9 of The Journey to the Promised Land series.)
In the episode last week, we saw pride creep into the story with Adam and Eve. Well, the trend continues in Genesis 4 with Cain and Able. But God gives a warning on what can happen if we let pride and envy control us.(This is episode 8 of The Journey to the Promised Land series.)
As we continue with our series in Genesis, we are finally to Genesis 3. In this episode, we are going to look at a moment in time when a choice changed everything and how pride can wreck your life. (This is episode 7 of The Journey to the Promised Land series.)
In the episode, we are going to be looking at a single verse in Genesis 2 and in that single verse we will see how God feels about loneliness. (This is episode 6 of The Journey to the Promised Land series.)
In this episode, we are going to be taking a look at how life was in the Garden of Eden. (This is episode 5 of The Journey to the Promised Land series.)
Did God need to rest or was He setting an example for us to follow? We will explore that thought in this episode. (This is episode 4 of The Journey to the Promised Land series.)
In this episode, we are going to be looking at the 2 different ways God creates things in Genesis 1. We also we see what God thinks of all He created. (This is episode 3 of The Journey to the Promised Land series.)
This episode starts our series in the book of Genesis. We are going to be looking at Genesis 1:1-2 and the thought provoking way Eugene Peterson, the author of the Message translation of the Bible, words Genesis 1:1. (This is episode 2 of The Journey to the Promised Land series.)
In this episode, I share my word of the year as well as what we are going to be doing for 2023! So excited for what God will do on 2023! We will be looking at Psalm 121 - “I look up to the mountains— does my help come from there? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth! He will not let you stumble; the one who watches over you will not slumber. Indeed, he who watches over Israel never slumbers or sleeps. The Lord himself watches over you! The Lord stands beside you as your protective shade. The sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon at night. The Lord keeps you from all harm and watches over your life. The Lord keeps watch over you as you come and go, both now and forever.” - Psalms 121:1-8 NLT
In this special episode we will be looking back at some of the episodes and series from 2022. This is part 2 of 2.
In this special episode we will be looking back at some of the episodes and series from 2022. This is part 1 of 2.
A special episode where we will be having a conversation as we read the Christmas Story found in Luke 2. “If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved. As Scripture says, “Anyone who believes in him will never be put to shame.” For there is no difference between Jew and Gentile—the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on him, for, Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” - Romans 10:9-13 NIV
EPISODE DETAILS: In this episode, we are going to looking at one of the names of Jesus found in Isaiah. We will see how God is truly with us and what that means for all of us. SERIES DETAILS: In this series, we are going to be looking at some Old Testament texts that point to Jesus and that are fulfilled by Jesus’ birth at Christmas. PLEASE NOTE: the Enduring Word commentary is used at times throughout this episode. If you would like to read more please visit enduringword.com or download the app that can be found wherever you get your apps.
EPISODE DETAILS: As we continue on in our Christmas series, we are going to see how God uses the little things to do big things! SERIES DETAILS: In this series, we are going to be looking at some Old Testament texts that point to Jesus and that are fulfilled by Jesus’ birth at Christmas. PLEASE NOTE: the Enduring Word commentary is used at times throughout this episode. If you would like to read more please visit enduringword.com or download the app that can be found wherever you get your apps.
EPISODE DETAILS: In this episode, we are going to look at how God has a plan, a purpose, and keeps His promises. SERIES DETAILS: In this series, we are going to be looking at some Old Testament texts that point to Jesus and that are fulfilled by Jesus’ birth at Christmas. PLEASE NOTE: the Enduring Word commentary is used at times throughout this episode. If you would like to read more please visit enduringword.com or download the app that can be found wherever you get your apps.
SERIES DETAILS: In this series, we are going to be looking at some Old Testament texts that point to Jesus and that are fulfilled by Jesus’ birth at Christmas. EPISODE DETAILS: We are going to be looking at family tree of Jesus and why it is significant to us and our lives today. Also, how the people in Jesus’ family tree show us that God can use anybody to do great things for Him! PLEASE NOTE the Enduring Word commentary is used at times throughout this episode. If you would like to read more please visit enduringword.com or download the app that can be found wherever you get your apps.
This is a very interesting question. And there’s a great story in the Bible to illustrate at all. Join me as we journey through this question together.
I have pondered the question that the Psalmist writes in Psalm 116:12 for years. I have always came to the same conclusion on the answer - until recently…. In this episode, I share what I believe is the answer to the question.
How do you have a healthy heart? No, I’m not talking about eating your Cheerios. In this episode, we are goin to turn to Proverbs 4 for a little bit of help with the answer to that question.
In this episode, we are going to be looking at a story in Luke 24. In the story there is hope and because of what was hoped, there is disappointment too. Google dictionary defines “Disappoint” as failure to fulfill the hopes or expectations of someone. Let’s see how all of this shows up in our Bible passage today.
Notebooks and Journals will be a collection of episodes of random thoughts and things that I have learned from God. The series will look at some of the things that I wrote down in my notebooks and journals almost 6 years ago. God has reminded me of a lot of things just looking back through those notebooks and journals. I can’t wait to share them with you through this series. However, the first episode we will look at the question “did Jesus ever worry?” Let’s dive into this together!
In this final episode of “Touched”, we are looking how the touch of Jesus truly changes lives - then, now, and forever.
In this episode, we are continuing on in our series Touched. In the first 2 episodes of the series we saw how Jesus Himself touched people’s lives in ways that only He could. In last week’s episode, we saw how a simple conversation could lead someone to Jesus. The idea we started looking at last week we are going to continue to look at this week and that is - “the touch of Jesus changes lives through what we say and do.”
In this episode, we are going to be looking at a familiar story in John 4. The touch of Jesus changes lives, but that touch can be in different forms. Conversation is a very important piece to how Jesus changed lives. A simple conversation with someone may contain the words that leads someone to Jesus - and you may be the only one they will listen too!
In this episode, we are going to be looking at how the touch of Jesus changes lives. This time we are going to be looking at a story in John 4:46-53 where the touch of Jesus changes the lives of many.
The touch of Jesus changes lives. In this episode, we are going to be looking at how Jesus changed the life of a man in John 9 and how that change still impacts our lives today.
In this special episode, I am going to talk about how The Focus Point was started, some of the changes that are coming, and the importance of the number 7! We will be looking at Joshua 6.
EPISODE DETAILS: In this episode, we see how God is an all-good God and wants nothing but the best for us all. GOOD GOD SERIES LINK (first episode of the series) —> https://anchor.fm/focuspointpodcast/episodes/God-Isnt-Responsible---Good-God-series-1---S2-E8-ecitn3 SERIES OVERVIEW: Psalm 139 as well known devotionally. Psalm 139:14 says “I praise you for I am fearfully and wonderfully made” and is emblazoned on T-shirts, coffee mugs, and other decorative items. Psalm 139 also conceal deeply important statements about the nature of God. Over the next 4 weeks, we will explore these statements, with particular attention to 4 classical attributes of God: His omniscience (all knowing), omnipresence (always present), omnipotence (all powerful), and omnibenevolence (all good). What we will discover is a God who knows us, who is always there for us, and who is never against us. We are KNOWN by God.
EPISODE DETAILS: In this episode, we are going to look at how God created us and why that makes us so special to Him. SERIES OVERVIEW: Psalm 139 as well known devotionally. Psalm 139:14 says “I praise you for I am fearfully and wonderfully made” and is emblazoned on T-shirts, coffee mugs, and other decorative items. Psalm 139 also conceal deeply important statements about the nature of God. Over the next 4 weeks, we will explore these statements, with particular attention to 4 classical attributes of God: His omniscience (all knowing), omnipresence (always present), omnipotence (all powerful), and omnibenevolence (all good). What we will discover is a God who knows us, who is always there for us, and who is never against us. We are KNOWN by God.
EPISODE DETAILS: In this episode, we are going to be looking at how God is everywhere and that He is everywhere with us! Sometimes we may feel like God isn’t there or has left us alone. But He hasn’t! God loves us so very much and He will never leave us. SERIES OVERVIEW: Psalm 139 as well known devotionally. Psalm 139:14 says “I praise you for I am fearfully and wonderfully made” and is emblazoned on T-shirts, coffee mugs, and other decorative items. Psalm 139 also conceal deeply important statements about the nature of God. Over the next 4 weeks, we will explore these statements, with particular attention to 4 classical attributes of God: His omniscience (all knowing), omnipresence (always present), omnipotence (all powerful), and omnibenevolence (all good). What we will discover is a God who knows us, who is always there for us, and who is never against us. We are KNOWN by God.
EPISODE DETAILS: In this episode, we are going to be looking at the first 6 verses of Psalm 139. In these verses we see from the very beginning how and why God knows us so well. SERIES OVERVIEW: Psalm 139 as well known devotionally. Psalm 139:14 says “I praise you for I am fearfully and wonderfully made” and is emblazoned on T-shirts, coffee mugs, and other decorative items. Psalm 139 also conceal deeply important statements about the nature of God. Over the next 4 weeks, we will explore these statements, with particular attention to 4 classical attributes of God: His omniscience (all knowing), omnipresence (always present), omnipotence (all powerful), and omnibenevolence (all good). What we will discover is a God who knows us, who is always there for us, and who is never against us. We are KNOWN by God.
“Lost. Not gone. There’s a difference. If something is lost it can found.” This quote (from Uncharted) really stood out to me when I heard it in the movie theatre. I quickly got out my phone and typed into my notes app. I also immediately thought of Luke 15.
The reason why I like series like this is because I fully believe that you can see God anywhere and anytime - if you are looking for Him. There are times when I go and see a movie not really expecting to get anything from God out of the movie. But it’s in those movies that He shows me a lot of stuff. In fact, the last movie we are going to look at in this series is a great example of what I mean. Typically, God just makes a line or two stand out to me and I can’t get it out of my head or when I hear the line it feels like God taps me on the shoulder and says “did you hear that?” As I said, I get excited for this kind of series. So with all of that said, - let’s go to the movies!
The reason why I like series like this is because I fully believe that you can see God anywhere and anytime - if you are looking for Him. There are times when I go and see a movie not really expecting to get anything from God out of the movie. But it’s in those movies that He shows me a lot of stuff. In fact, the last movie we are going to look at in this series is a great example of what I mean. Typically, God just makes a line or two stand out to me and I can’t get it out of my head or when I hear the line it feels like God taps me on the shoulder and says “did you hear that?” As I said, I get excited for this kind of series. So with all of that said, - let’s go to the movies!
The reason why I like series like this is because I fully believe that you can see God anywhere and anytime - if you are looking for Him. There are times when I go and see a movie not really expecting to get anything from God out of the movie. But it’s in those movies that He shows me a lot of stuff. In fact, the last movie we are going to look at in this series is a great example of what I mean. Typically, God just makes a line or two stand out to me and I can’t get it out of my head or when I hear the line it feels like God taps me on the shoulder and says “did you hear that?” As I said, I get excited for this kind of series. So with all of that said, - let’s go to the movies!
The first thing that I wanted to mention from the lyrics is the first line “I can be real with you.” This is an important line. It took me a while to understand that I can be real with Jesus. I believe many times we can be afraid to express to Jesus how we really feel. We are afraid that we will somehow make Jesus mad. But there are instances in the Bible where people got real with Jesus.
I can be real with You Say anything and not be afraid You made me and You like what You made You made me and You don't make mistakes I can be real with You
You take me just as I am You'd choose me all over again I am the one You love I am the one You love I don't have to prove anything There's room at Your table for me I am the one You love I am the one You love
I know You're proud of me Even though I don't deserve it sometimes No, I'm not a perfect child But I still make my Father smile So, I know You're proud of me [1]
[1] Artist: Elevation Worship Song: The One You Love Album: Lion (released March 4, 2022) Songwriters: Jason Ingram / Christopher Joel Brown / Steven Furtick / Phil Wickham
A couple of months ago, my wife and I were able to attend a worship night led by Elevation Church called “Elevation Nights.” It was an amazing time. Basically, it was an extended church service. There was a time of worship and a message from Pastor Steven Furtick. But this episode isn’t about what God showed me through his message as I sometimes share here. This is more of what God showed me before the night even started.
I recently heard a song. I was captivated by the lyrics of the song as they described God. In this post, I want to look at the song a little bit as well as a passage of Scripture that I have dwelled on for several years. But once again, it has given a new light.
This will blow your mind. I know it did mine. As I sat in the church service I knew that needed to share with you what I had heard the pastor say in his message. A few months ago, one of the teaching pastors at my church was preaching a message called “Holy Habits”. As he got toward the end of his message he talked briefly about how Moses wanted a name for God. So God responded with the name YHWH.
The sermon audio clip is from Granger Community Church message "Holy Habits". Time stamp 50:07 - 52:20. Full message at the following link. https://grangerchurch.com/watch/?sapurl=LytkZTNkL2xiL21pLys3aGJxdnA2P2JyYW5kaW5nPXRydWUmZW1iZWQ9dHJ1ZSZyZWNlbnRSb3V0ZT1hcHAud2ViLWFwcC5saWJyYXJ5Lmxpc3QmcmVjZW50Um91dGVTbHVnPSUyQmp6cTQ4a2M=
We are going to look one more time at this scene in Exodus 14 where the Israelites have been freed from Egypt and they are standing on the banks of the Red Sea that they just walked through. We have been looking at this one scene in Israel’s history and looking at the different feelings and moments that came in right after their freedom from Egypt. This time we are looking at how God answers prayers and how Israel’s freedom was an answer to their prayer for deliverance but they didn’t see it that way. But God did hear their prayer for deliverance and it was just out for delivery. Today we are continuing on in a special series called “From The Vault”. It is important to rest. So during this period of rest, for me and The Focus Point ministry, I thought it would be fun to look back at one of the very first series we did on the podcast 3 years ago. It is important to note here that the episodes in this series are going to be presented in their original form.
The middle as defined by Merriam-Webster is “the position of being among or in the midst of something”. Being in the middle sucks. Being the middle child. Being caught in the middle of something that you shouldn’t have been in. Being in the middle of an argument. We all I think have been in the middle. When I think about someone who was caught in the middle - I think of Job. In this episode we are going to look at a little bit of his story. Today we are continuing on in a special series called “From The Vault”. It is important to rest. So during this period of rest, for me and The Focus Point ministry, I thought it would be fun to look back at one of the very first series we did on the podcast 3 years ago. It is important to note here that the episodes in this series are going to be presented in their original form.
There is a time to mourn over things that come up in our life. There are times when life gets real. We are looking a moment in the Israelites time in the wilderness where they were choosing to continue to mourn instead of dancing in the freedom God had for them. The Bible says that there is “a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance,” - Ecclesiastes 3:4 Today we are continuing on in a special series called “From The Vault”. It is important to rest. So during this period of rest, for me and The Focus Point ministry, I thought it would be fun to look back at one of the very first series we did on the podcast 3 years ago. It is important to note here that the episodes in this series are going to be presented in their original form.
Today we are starting a special series called “From The Vault”. It is important to rest. So during this period of rest, for me and The Focus Point ministry, I thought it would be fun to look back at one of the very first series we did on the podcast 3 years ago. It is important to note here that the episodes in this series are going to be presented in their original form.
Over the last several weeks, we have looked at majority of the Gospel of John (chapters 13-20). So in this episode we are going to look at what happens in John 21. As John 21 begins, the disciples have already seen the resurrected Jesus twice. They saw Him once without Thomas and then Jesus came back when Thomas was there. Now they are out fishing and Jesus is going to visit them for a third time and something amazing happens.
Scars tell stories. In the episode we see how the scars of Jesus tell an amazing story.
Over the last 9 weeks, we have entered into the Last Night With Jesus. We have spent time looking at John 13-17 which accounts the last night Jesus had with His disciples. We have entered into the teaching and encouragement of Jesus that He presented to His disciples that night. We entered confusing space and experienced the passionate teaching of Jesus along with them. Now, the events of Good Friday are on the horizon. The disciples had no clue what was to come for their friend Jesus. They had no clue what was to come for them as the events of the day unfolded. Once again, let’s enter into the moment with the disciples. Let’s enter into the events of Good Friday.
Jesus often prayed. He prayed in the morning. He prayed in the evening. He prayed in the afternoon. He prayed in the late hours of the night. It is the late-night prayer that we are going to be looking at in this post. As I have said throughout this series, Jesus is in His final hours here. These final teachings are arguably the best Jesus did. Not that all the others were bad, but these are His final ones and Jesus knows it. He has taught about prayer and He has been seen praying. But there are good things we can see from this late-night prayer of Jesus. With this prayer of Jesus, we get to see the heart of Jesus [1] You can check that series out here - in either the blog form or the podcast form. https://www.thepointoffocus.com [2] “Talking to Jesus” - Elevation Worship [3] “Genuine prayer often reveals a person’s innermost being. John 17 is an unique opportunity to see the nature and heart of Jesus.” - Enduring Word - https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/john-17/amp/ [4] Where some of the verses are posted and other verses are summarized. [5] “This indicates the physical posture of Jesus as He prayed. This is a posture that we don’t usually associate with deep prayer. In the prayer customs of the western world, we often bow our head and close our eyes. Jesus prayed with the customs of prayer common in His own day (John 11:41, Mark 7:34, Psalm 123:1). The words lifted up His eyes to heaven also indicate that Jesus looked up in a hopeful sense and was not gloomy or downcast in this prayer. This is actually a prayer of faith and confidence, even victory – all the while acknowledging the reality of the conflict. ‘We so often understand this prayer as though it were rather gloomy. It is not. It is uttered by One who has just affirmed that He has overcome the world (John 16:33), and it starts from this conviction.’ (Morris)” - Enduring Word - https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/john-17/amp/ [6] Matthew 1:21, Philippians 2:6-8, Hebrews 4:15 [7] “After saying all these things, Jesus looked up to heaven and said, “Father, the hour has come. Glorify your Son so he can give glory back to you.” - John 17:1 NLT [8] Jesus prayed first for Himself, but His petition was not selfish. His concern for Himself was actually a concern for the glory of the Father. The Son can only glorify the Father if the Father first answers the prayer of the Son, “Glorify Your Son.” [9] Having taught and encouraged the disciples as much as He could on the eve of their despair, Jesus now did the great thing: He committed them to the Father in prayer. - Enduring Word - https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/john-17/amp/ [10] Jesus prayed this entire prayer with His soon departure in mind. He realized that He would no longer remain in the world, but His disciples would. They therefore needed special prayer. · They needed prayer because the unique three years of discipleship during His earthly ministry would be over. · They needed prayer because of the circumstances surrounding the departure of Jesus; His betrayal, arrest, trial, beatings, crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension. · They needed prayer because Jesus would not be there in His bodily presence to help them. · They needed prayer because of the necessary role of the Holy Spirit; both for the sending of the Spirit and their constant reliance upon Him.
Enduring Word - https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/john-17/amp/
The night is coming to close. Jesus knows the events to come and they are close. Jesus has one final thing to say to His disciples as the conversation and the night is coming to an end. Jesus does say a few more things to His disciples after this moment, but this is the final words of His last teaching to them. This final part of the conversation starts like this:
we continue on in this series, we once again see Jesus talk about the Holy Spirit. This is the third time we see Jesus talk about the Holy Spirit in this last conversation with His disciples. The other times Jesus mentioned the Holy Spirit coming to them were when He talks about going away. He tells them that while His going away is sad, He has to go so the Spirit will come to them. I think that this is a good opportunity to talk a little bit about the Holy Spirit. [1] John 14:15-26, 15:26-27, 16:5-15
[2] John 16:7
[3] For further reading on the Holy Spirit - https://www.gotquestions.org/is-the-Holy-Spirit-God.html
[4] “The Spirit does not merely accuse men of sin, he brings to them an inescapable sense of guilt so that they realize their shame and helplessness before God.” (Tenney) - Enduring Word - https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/john-16/amp/
[5] It is unbelief, the rejection of Jesus, which ultimately proves one to be guilty. The Holy Spirit will tell the world of the importance of trusting in, relying on, and clinging to Jesus to avoid this sin. - Enduring Word - https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/john-16/amp/
[6] The judgment of Satan himself means that there will be a final reckoning between God and His rebellious creature. The Holy Spirit warns the world of this coming judgment. - Enduring Word - https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/john-16/amp/
[7] Jesus frankly admitted that His own teaching was incomplete, and anticipated the further instruction of the church by the Holy Spirit. This statement of Jesus leads us to anticipate the formation of the New Testament. i. Here Jesus answered those who say, “I’ll take what Jesus taught, but not what Paul or the others taught.” Paul and the other New Testament writers taught us the many things that Jesus spoke of. - Enduring Word - https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/john-16/amp/
[8] John 16:14-15
Over the last week I have been looking at this next part of the conversation between Jesus and His disciples. I have been looking and praying as to what Jesus might be saying to us through His words.
In this next part of the conversation, we see Jesus speak of two sources for us to remain. We also see the seventh “I Am” statement. This is a passage about connection. Jesus says that He is the vine and we (the disciples and you and me) are the branches that are connected to vine. Let’s dive in. [1] At this point, Jesus and His disciples left the table and slowly made their way toward the Garden of Gethsemane. It is clear they did not immediately leave (John 18:1), but here began to. i. “Anyone who has tried to get a group of a dozen or so to leave a particular place at a particular time will appreciate that it usually takes more than one brief exhortation to accomplish this.” (Morris) ii. “Probably the rest of the discourse, and the prayer, chapter 17, were delivered when now all were standing ready to depart.” (Alford) iii. “Whether chapters 15-17 were spoken en route to Gethsemane or whether he and the disciples lingered while he finished the discussion is not plain.” (Tenney) - Enduring Word - https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/john-14/amp/ [2] The Gospel of John: Believe and Live by Elmer Towns [3] The NIV Application Commentary: John by Gary M. Burge [4] The 7 “I AM” statements are found in the Gospel of John. The statements are things that Jesus said in reference to Himself. 1. I am the bread of life (John 6:35) 2. I am the light of the world (John 8:12) 3. I am the gate (John 10:7) 4. I am the good shepherd (John 10:11) 5. I am the resurrection and the life (John 11:25) 6. I am the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6) 7. I am the true vine (John 15:1,5) [5] John 14:10-11 [6] Jesus chooses disciples not simply so they would have the thrill of knowing they are chosen, but so that they would bear fruit that remains, to the glory of God the Father. - Enduring Word - https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/john-15/amp/
What I love about all of the words that Jesus said to His disciples is that they are for us as well. I know that I have said that a lot and by now it should be understood. But when we are looking at a conversation in the Bible that is for a group of people we can sometimes forget that the words we are reading are not just for them they are for us too! I know it happens to me. I can read some of the words of Jesus and think “well, that’s nice of Jesus to say that to His disciples”. Jesus isn’t just talking to them. He’s talking to us too! Jesus wants us to accept His gift of real peace.
[1] a. Jesus explained why He was the only way to God; because He was and is the perfect representation of God. To know Jesus is to know God. b. The disciples certainly had learned and known much about God in their three years of apprenticeship under Jesus. Yet Jesus understood that since they had not yet seen the full revelation of God’s love at the cross and His power at the resurrection, there was a sense in which they would only now know and see God. c. Philip had seen and experienced much in following Jesus, but had not yet seen God the Father with his physical eyes. Perhaps he thought that such an experience would bring life-changing assurance and courage. - Enduring Word - https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/john-14/amp/
[2] Jesus did not mean greater in the sense of more sensational, but greater in magnitude. Jesus would leave behind a victorious, working family of followers who would spread His kingdom to more people and places than Jesus ever did in His life and ministry. - Enduring Word - https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/john-14/amp/
[3] These greater works Jesus promised would bring glory to both the Father and the Son. Prayers prayed with a passion for the glory of Jesus and God the Father will truly be in the name of Jesus and be the kind of prayer God will answer. - Enduring Word - https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/john-14/amp/
[4] Jesus further explained how greater works would be possible for His followers. It would be possible because Jesus would do His work through His prayerful people, who asked and acted in His name. He promised to do anything that His trusting followers asked for in His name; that is, according to His character and authority. - Enduring Word - https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/john-14/amp/
[5] Jesus had just demonstrated His remarkable love to the disciples by washing their feet (John 13:1-5). He told them what their loving response should be; to keep His commandments. · He commanded them to wash one another’s feet, after the example He just displayed (John 13:14-15). · He commanded them to love one another after the pattern of His love to them (John 13:34). · He commanded them to put their faith in God the Father and in Jesus Himself (John 14:1). - Enduring Word - https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/john-14/amp/
[6] Jesus began His third assurance. The disciples feared, “When Jesus leaves, then our discipleship program is over and it has barely started.” Their discipleship program wasn’t finished; it was only just beginning. - Enduring Word - https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/john-14/amp/
[6] Jesus again promised to come to the disciples (previously in John 14: 3). This was a broad promise fulfilled by His resurrection, by the sending of the Spirit, and by the promise of His bodily return to this earth. - Enduring Word - https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/john-14/amp/
[7] At this point, Jesus and His disciples left the table and slowly made their way toward the Garden of Gethsemane. - Enduring Word - https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/john-14/amp/
EPISODE DETAILS: Jesus didn’t want to upset the disciples with what He had said, but He could tell they were upset. When Jesus told them not to let their hearts be troubled, He was telling them that they could ease their hearts and that things were ok. Jesus didn’t want them to be upset either. So He went to words of comfort for His disciples. SERIES DETAILS: In this series, we are going to be looking at the last night Jesus spent with His disciples. Jesus spent the last few hours He had with His disciples to teach them and give them some words of encouragement. In less than 24 hours Jesus would be arrested and crucified. The last night with Jesus is found in John 13-17. These are some of the most passionate teachings and words of Jesus from His entire Earthly ministry. Let’s look at them together. [1] https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/john-14/amp/
[2] Love prepares a welcome. With love, expectant parents prepare a room for the baby. With love, the hostess prepares for her guests. Jesus prepares a place for His people because He loves them and is confident of their arrival. - Enduring Word - https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/john-14/amp/
[3] Thomas should be praised for honestly and clearly explaining his confusion. He thought Jesus was simply going to another place, as if it were another city. - Enduring Word - https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/john-14/amp/
[4] Simply put, if Jesus is not the only way to God, then He is not any way to God. If there are many roads to God, then Jesus is not one of them, because He absolutely claimed there was only one road to God, and He Himself was that road. If Jesus is not the only way to God, then He was not a honest man; He was most certainly not a true prophet. He then would either be a madman or a lying devil. There is no middle ground available. - Enduring Word - https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/john-14/amp/
[5] Jesus didn’t say that He would show us a way; He said that He is the way. He didn’t promise to teach us a truth; He said that He is the truth. Jesus didn’t offer us the secrets to life; He said that He is the life. · I’m wandering about; I don’t know where I’m going. Jesus is the way. · I’m confused; I don’t know what to think. Jesus is the truth. · I’m dead inside and don’t know if I can go on. Jesus is the life. - Enduring Word - https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/john-14/amp/
EPISODE DETAILS: In this episode, we are going to be looking at three surprises that the disciples experienced at dinner with Jesus. But with these surprises also came some lessons that Jesus wanted His disciples and us to learn. SERIES DETAILS: In this series, we are going to be looking at the last night Jesus spent with His disciples. Jesus spent the last few hours He had with His disciples to teach them and give them some words of encouragement. In less than 24 hours Jesus would be arrested and crucified. The last night with Jesus is found in John 13-17. These are some of the most passionate teachings and words of Jesus from His entire Earthly ministry. Let’s look at them together. [1] “None of the disciples were interested in washing each other’s feet. Any of them would have gladly washed Jesus’ feet. But they could not wash His without having to be available to wash the others’ feet, and that would have been an intolerable admission of inferiority among their fellow competitors for the top positions in the disciples’ hierarchy. So no one’s feet got washed.” - Enduring Word - Read more at - https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/john-13/amp/ [2] It was probably through greed and discontent the devil gained a foothold in Judas’ life. - Read more https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/john-12/amp/ [3] By some chronologies Judas went out the next day and made his bargain with the religious leaders to betray Jesus for 30 pieces of silver (Matthew 26:14-16, Mark 14:10-11). “The impression left is that Judas, seeing one source of personal enrichment lost, hastened to create another.” Read more - https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/john-12/amp/ [4] “Very early in the morning the leading priests and the elders of the people met again to lay plans for putting Jesus to death. Then they bound him, led him away, and took him to Pilate, the Roman governor. When Judas, who had betrayed him, realized that Jesus had been condemned to die, he was filled with remorse. So he took the thirty pieces of silver back to the leading priests and the elders. ‘I have sinned,’ he declared, ‘for I have betrayed an innocent man.’ ‘What do we care?’ they retorted. ‘That’s your problem.’ Then Judas threw the silver coins down in the Temple and went out and hanged himself.” - Matthew 27:1-5 NLT
In this episode, we are looking at just one verse that sets the table for the events to come over the next 24 hours.
SERIES DETAILS: In this series, we are going to be looking at the last night Jesus spent with His disciples. Jesus spent the last few hours He had with His disciples to teach them and give them some words of encouragement. In less than 24 hours Jesus would be arrested and crucified. The last night with Jesus is found in John 13-17. These are some of the most passionate teachings and words of Jesus from His entire Earthly ministry. Let’s look at them together.
[1]
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Turning water into wine in Cana (John 2:1-11)
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Healing an official’s son in Capernaum (John 4:46-54)
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Healing an invalid at the Pool of Bethesda in Jerusalem (John 5:1-18)
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Feeding the 5,000 near the Sea of Galilee (John 6:5-14)
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Walking on the water of the Sea of Galilee (John 6:16-21)
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Healing a blind man in Jerusalem (John 9:1-7)
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Raising dead Lazarus in Bethany (John 11:1-45)
Read more here….
https://ificouldteachthebible.com/2013/10/19/seven-miracles-in-john/amp/
[2] https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/john-13/amp/
[3]https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/john-13/amp/
I am sure that you have battled this idea or thought along with me. Why pray? Why do I need to pray? God doesn’t hear me or answer me when I do. So what is the point? God is supposed to hear me when I call to Him. The Bible says that God will answer when I call to Him. So why doesn’t He answer me? What’s the point in even talking to Him? “My God, my God, why have you abandoned me? Why are you so far away when I groan for help? Every day I call to you, my God, but you do not answer. Every night I lift my voice, but I find no relief. Yet you are holy, enthroned on the praises of Israel.” - Psalms 22:1-3 NLT “‘Go out and stand before me on the mountain,’ the Lord told him. And as Elijah stood there, the Lord passed by, and a mighty windstorm hit the mountain. It was such a terrible blast that the rocks were torn loose, but the Lord was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake. And after the earthquake there was a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire there was the sound of a gentle whisper. When Elijah heard it, he wrapped his face in his cloak and went out and stood at the entrance of the cave. - 1 Kings 19:11-13 NLT
Prayer can be complicated. But it doesn’t have to be. So join me over the next few weeks as we look how we can get a better understanding of prayer so it doesn’t have to be complicated. [1] “Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed.” - Mark 1:35 NIV “Immediately after this, Jesus insisted that his disciples get back into the boat and cross to the other side of the lake, while he sent the people home. After sending them home, he went up into the hills by himself to pray. Night fell while he was there alone.” - Matthew 14:22-23 NLT “Then Jesus went with them to the olive grove called Gethsemane, and he said, ‘Sit here while I go over there to pray.’” Matthew 26:36 NLT “One day soon afterward Jesus went up on a mountain to pray, and he prayed to God all night.” - Luke 6:12 NLT [2] “‘Call to me and I will answer you. I’ll tell you marvelous and wondrous things that you could never figure out on your own.’” - Jeremiah 33:2-3 MSG [3] “Father forgive them; for they know not what they do" (Luke 23:34) “My God, My God, why hast thou forsaken me?" (Matt 27:46, Mark 15:34) “Father, into thy hands I commit my spirit" (Luke 23:46)
Prayer can be complicated. But it doesn’t have to be. So join me over the next few weeks as we look how we can get a better understanding of prayer so it doesn’t have to be complicated.
[1] Artists: Elevation Worship and Maverick City Music
Song: “Talking To Jesus”
Album: Old Church Basement
Writer(s): Brandon Lake, Steven Furtick, Christopher Brown
[2] verses from the book of Psalms
“My God, my God, why have you abandoned me? Why are you so far away when I groan for help? Every day I call to you, my God, but you do not answer. Every night I lift my voice, but I find no relief.” - Psalms 22:1-2 NLT
“How long, O Lord, will you look on and do nothing? Rescue me from their fierce attacks. Protect my life from these lions! Then I will thank you in front of the great assembly. I will praise you before all the people.” - Psalms 35:17-18 NLT
““O God my rock,” I cry, “why have you forgotten me? Why must I wander around in grief, oppressed by my enemies?” Their taunts break my bones. They scoff, “Where is this God of yours?” Why am I discouraged? Why is my heart so sad? I will put my hope in God! I will praise him again— my Savior and my God!” - Psalms 42:9-11 NLT
[3] Draw the Circle Prayer Journal: A 40-Day Experiment
https://www.christianbook.com/draw-circle-prayer-journal-day-experiment/mark-batterson/9780310352693/pd/352693?event=CPOF
Draw the Circle: The 40 Day Prayer Challenge
https://www.christianbook.com/draw-circle-the-day-prayer-challenge/mark-batterson/9780310327127/pd/327127
The Circle Maker
https://www.christianbook.com/the-circle-maker-mark-batterson/9780310346913/pd/346913?event=CPOF
Prayer can be complicated. But it doesn’t have to be. So join me over the next few weeks as we look how we can get a better understanding of prayer so it doesn’t have to be complicated. [1] Understanding (WOTY 2022) Blog – https://www.thepointoffocus.com/post/understanding-woty Podcast - https://anchor.fm/focuspointpodcast/episodes/Understanding-WOTY-2022---S3-E43-e1c2du1 [2] Psalm 18:6 [3] 1 Timothy 2:2, NLT [4] 2 Chronicles 7:14, NLT - also check out the series “7:14” at thepointoffocus.com to find out more on this verse.
Christmas is when we celebrate the wonderful gift from God - Jesus. Christmas is also a time where we celebrate that God gave everything He had to save us from our sins. God gave His only Son. God gave everything so that we could be free from our sins. - JESUS STEPPED IN! [1] Genesis 1:3-25 [2] Genesis 1:26-27 and Genesis 2:7 [3] Ephesians 2:10, NLT [4] Genesis 3 [5] Genesis 6-9 [6] Leviticus 16 [7] Matthew 1:21 [8] John 3:16 [9] Isaiah 53:6 [10] Luke 2:52 [11] Romans 6:23
“Some time later, God tested Abraham’s faith….” Genesis 22:1 NLT As I have been looking at this story over the course of this year, this verse just jumped out at me along with the rest of the story. There is also another verse that we will be focusing in on a little later in the post. This was a year that tested my faith.
Bible translations can be an interesting thing to navigate. But what if I told you they are there to help us understand the Word of God even more. There are so many different Bible translations and it seems that many people have their favorite translation that they like to use. They also have their opinions on what they think is the “correct” translation. But is there a right or wrong translation? If we understand the idea behind the different translations then we might not get so up in arms about the matter.
Over the years, two questions that I have often got are 1) Where do I start reading the Bible? and 2) How do I understand it all? These questions are good. Where to start reading the Bible is a solid question. It is hard to know where to start with such a big book. Then understanding the Bible is another great question and speaks to the point that the Bible can be hard to understand and confusing at many points. In the episode , I hope to provide a little bit of an answer to these questions.
Why read the Bible? It’s so old and out of date. The Bible is just a bunch of rules. A list of dos and don’ts. The Bible is old fashioned. The Bible was written so long ago it can’t be relevant to us now. Why read the Bible? The Bible is boring and really isn’t all that interesting.
These are some of the things that have been said about the Bible. But really when it comes to reading the Bible, it really just depends on how you look at it.
I bring this up because even though we may not be a gardener in real life or have the proverbial “green thumb”, we are all a gardener. We all have a garden to tend. The garden of our minds. Our mind is a garden and just like any garden, it needs to be cared for. The garden of our minds needs to be cared for because one big reason - the enemy. The enemy wants to throw seeds out there so they take root and grow into something big and that will take us out. In a way, the seeds the enemy plants in our gardens are weeds.
*This series is based on the book* Don’t Give The Enemy A Seat At Your Table” by Louie Giglio. The thoughts and ideas in this post come from the book, but are put into my own words and are not directly quoted. All direct quotes from the book will be noted as such and identified. You can pick up a copy of the book wherever you buy your books.**
[1] The “seeds” listed in this post are quoted from the book above. The paragraph(s) following each seed are a mix of my thoughts and the thoughts of the author. Direct quote will be noted”
For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place, when I was woven together in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be. How precious to me are your thoughts, God! How vast is the sum of them! - Psalm 139:13-17, NIV
[2] “Who Told You That?” - Don’t Give The Enemy A Seat At Your Table part 6 -
Blog post - https://www.thepointoffocus.com/post/who-told-you-that
Podcast - https://anchor.fm/focuspointpodcast/episodes/Who-Told-You-That----Dont-Give-The-Enemy-A-Seat-At-Your-Table-6---S3-E35-e18r2v6
[3] For further reading on this seed, check out this post from last year during our “Around The Campfire” series called “This is The Day The Lord Has Made and Jesus is (Still) Lord”
Blog post - https://www.thepointoffocus.com/post/this-is-the-day-the-lord-has-made-and-jesus-is-still-lord
Podcast - https://anchor.fm/focuspointpodcast/episodes/This-is-the-Day-the-Lord-Has-Made-and-Jesus-is-Still-Lord---Around-The-Campfire-1---S2--E21-em2baa
[4] “Grab hold of a specific scriptural truth for the day, such as these:
- Monday - My God knows my name (Isaiah 43:1)
- Tuesday - My God goes before me (Deuteronomy 31:8)
- Wednesday - I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me (Philippians 4:13)
- Thursday - My present suffering pales in comparison to my future glory (Romans 8:18).
- Friday - No weapon formed against me will prosper (Isaiah 54:17)
- Saturday - I am a child of God (Romans 8:16)
- Sunday - The same power that raised Jesus from the dead lives in me (Ephesians 1:18-20)”
The reason why we miss grace sometimes is because the enemy has us focused on two other words - guilt and shame. This is what the enemy did to Adam and Eve. He tricked them into eating the fruit from the tree and then turned it into guilt and shame. Adam and Eve hid from God because they were ashamed. The enemy was running them on the hamster wheel and telling them how awful what they did was and how ashamed they should be. But that’s not the way it should be. Let’s look at the words guilt and shame. **This series is based on the book Don’t Give The Enemy A Seat At Your Table” by Louie Giglio. The thoughts and ideas in this post come from the book, but are put into my own words and are not directly quoted. All direct quotes from the book will be noted as such and identified. You can pick up a copy of the book wherever you buy your books.
God asked the question “who told you that?” The things they were experiencing were not coming from Him. You could go further and say that God was asking “who told you that you should be afraid? Who told you that you needed to hide? Who told you that you were guilty? Who told you that?” They were experiencing things straight from the enemy. The enemy acted like their friend and planted that seed of doubt about God’s goodness. Then the enemy just waited for it to take root. When it finally did, the enemy switched sides and then started accusing them.
**This series is based on the book Don’t Give The Enemy A Seat At Your Table” by Louie Giglio. The thoughts and ideas in this post come from the book, but are put into my own words and are not directly quoted. All direct quotes from the book will be noted as such and identified. You can pick up a copy of the book wherever you buy your books. Scriptures referenced in this post. All Scripture is taken from the YouVerison Bible app. The YouVerison Bible is available for free wherever you download your apps. “So be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid and do not panic before them. For the Lord your God will personally go ahead of you. He will neither fail you nor abandon you.”” - Deuteronomy 31:6 NLT “For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.” - Ephesians 2:10 NLT “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” - John 3:16 NIV “Long ago the Lord said to Israel: “I have loved you, my people, with an everlasting love. With unfailing love I have drawn you to myself.” - Jeremiah 31:3 NLT “And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love.” - Romans 8:38 NLT “What shall we say about such wonderful things as these? If God is for us, who can ever be against us?” - Romans 8:31 NLT “Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.” - Isaiah 41:10 NLT “And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”” - Matthew 28:20b NLT “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.” - John 10:27 NLT “and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.” - Ephesians 6:17b NLT “But now, O Jacob, listen to the Lord who created you. O Israel, the one who formed you says, “Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you. I have called you by name; you are mine.” - Isaiah 43:1 NLT “Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord will personally go ahead of you. He will be with you; he will neither fail you nor abandon you.” - Deuteronomy 31:8 NLT “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” - Philippians 4:13 NKJV “Yet what we suffer now is nothing compared to the glory he will reveal to us later.” - Romans 8:18 NLT “But in that coming day no weapon turned against you will succeed. You will silence every voice raised up to accuse you. These benefits are enjoyed by the servants of the Lord; their vindication will come from me. I, the Lord, have spoken!” - Isaiah 54:17 NLT “For his Spirit joins with our spirit to affirm that we are God’s children.” - Romans 8:16 NLT This is the same mighty power that raised Christ from the dead and seated him in the place of honor at God’s right hand in the heavenly realms.” - Ephesians 1:20 NLT
The enemy doesn’t give up that easily. He didn’t give on attacking Jesus and he doesn’t give up on attacking us either. This is an ongoing battle we have to keep our seat at the table (Luke 4:13). **This series is based on the book Don’t Give The Enemy A Seat At Your Table” by Louie Giglio. The thoughts and ideas in this post come from the book, but are put into my own words and are not directly quoted. All direct quotes from the book will be noted as such and identified. You can pick up a copy of the book wherever you buy your books. [1] The Temptation of Jesus is recorded in Matthew 4:1-11 and Luke 4:1-13. For this post, I referred to both passages. [2] Deuteronomy 8:3 [3] Deuteronomy 6:13 [4] Psalm 91:11-12 [5] Deuteronomy 6:16 [6] Deuteronomy 30:20 - “by loving the Lord your God, by obeying His voice, and by holding closely to Him; for He is your life [your good life, your abundant life, your fulfillment] and the length of your days, that you may live in the land which the Lord promised (swore) to give to your fathers, to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. - Deuteronomy 30:20 AMP
It all started with a lie. Everything we know started with a lie. The way we see the world and the way the world is all started with a lie. One lie was all it took for the enemy to get a seat at Eve’s table. The same is true for us as well. Before we look at five lies the enemy might to get a seat at the table, let’s look at the lie that started it all. **This series is based on the book Don’t Give The Enemy A Seat At Your Table” by Louie Giglio. The thoughts and ideas in this post come from the book, but are put into my own words and are not directly quoted. All direct quotes from the book will be noted as such and identified. You can pick up a copy of the book wherever you buy your books. PLEASE NOTE: The 5 lies listed in this episode are quoted from the book mentioned in the above paragraph. Scripture referenced in this episode Genesis 3:4-6, NLT Psalm 121:1-2 Matthew 14:22-33 Psalm 100:3 Romans 8:1 Romans 8:31 Judges 7 Judges 7:22, NLT. John 8:44, NLT
Have you ever been at a restaurant or a sporting event and a person that you know is there too? They see you from a distance, but you don’t see them until they have pulled up a seat at your table or taken the empty seat next to you in the row. It doesn’t take very long at all for someone to swipe a seat - especially when you don’t see it coming. **This series is based on the book Don’t Give The Enemy A Seat At Your Table” by Louie Giglio. The thoughts and ideas in this post come from the book, but are put into my own words and are not directly quoted. All direct quotes from the book will be noted as such and identified. You can pick up a copy of the book wherever you buy your books. [1] Psalm 121:1-2 [2] Louie Giglio, Don’t Give The Enemy A Seat At Your Table, page 48
In this episode, we are looking at Psalm 23 and how the Good Shepherd takes care of us..... forever. Scriptures and other referenced information in this episode. [1] The “Elevate” series can be found at https://www.thepointoffocus.com/videos [2] 1 Samuel 17:35-36, NLT [3] Psalm 23:1, NLT [4] Louie Giglio, Don’t Give The Enemy A Seat At Your Table, page 25 [5] Psalm 23:3, NLT. The NEW LIVING TRANSLATION of the Bible uses the phrase “He renews my strength.” [6] https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/psalm-23/amp/ [7] references the Google dictionary definition of the word mercy. [8] Psalm 23:6, NIV
Imagine that you are walking into a restaurant and you tell the host “yes, we’d like a table for 2 please.” The host walks you through the restaurant past all of the other dining guests to a table for 2 in the middle of the restaurant. The table is prepared for you. As you are sitting there enjoying the bread you look around and you notice some people are starting to stare at you. You begin to notice it more and more. You start to wonder if there is something in your hair, on your clothes, or makeup is smudged. You turn your attention back to your table and a second later someone pulls up a chair and takes a seat. Then another. And another. Before you know it the table has gotten crowded and you can’t even hear or barely see your dinner companion. The enemy has just pulled up and sat at your table.
Scripture referenced in this episode: Psalm 23:5, 23:1, 23:4, Hebrews 12:2, Psalm 121:1-2, Matthew 14:22-33
This series is based on the book Don’t Give The Enemy A Seat At Your Table” by Louie Giglio. The thoughts and ideas in this post come from the book, but are put into my own words and are not directly quoted. All direct quotes from the book will be noted as such and identified. You can pick up a copy of the book wherever you buy your books.
The final post in the AT THE MOVIES series. We are looking at a familiar movie for this post, but there is still a big lesson to be learned!
In this episode, I share what is ahead on the podcast and we are going to be looking at the movie Back To The Future. I have seen this movie probably 3,457,320 times. I’ve seen it a lot. But what I saw in this movie the most recent time I watched it was something that I had never seen before. God showed me something amazing and I want to share it with you. *Don't Give The Enemy A Seat At Your Table begins September 2, 2021
About 3 years ago, God showed me something in the movie, Forrest Gump. I have seen the movie many times and I never saw this in the movie until God revealed it to me. I hope that I share in this episode will be as encouraging for you as it was me.
I have been excited for this series of posts for quite some time. I have been wanting to do a movie series for a while because there are times when God talks to me (and us) through movies. But we have to be listening for Him to talk. In this series, we are going to look at four of my favorite movies and I am going to share what God showed me.
For this first episode of the series, we aren’t going to look at just one movie, but the devolvement of a character over the course of three movies. But the idea that I want to look at comes out of Star Wars: Episode 1 which is this phrase: YOUR FOCUS DETERMINES YOUR REALITY.
As I was stacking my pile, I thought of this passage I shared about and what a stack of rocks meant to them. So I was trying to stack as many as I could and realized that wasn’t going to work. At that time was when God told me “stack 6”. I fumbled around to find just the right rocks to use. I found two large rocks and four smaller rocks. I began to try and stack them. I tried a few different ways to stack them before I figured it out. The way I stacked them is in the picture below. Once I was done, God told me what I was looking at - what the pile meant.
This time every year we celebrate the Fourth of July. On July 4, 1776, the Declaration of Independence was agreed upon and the thirteen colonies were declared free, independent states, and no longer under the rule of King George III. But there is also another kind of freedom I think about as well. I am reminded of the great freedom there is in Jesus. Let’s see what Romans 8 has to say about this….
[1] Isaiah 53:3-8 (NIV) “He was despised and rejected by mankind, a man of suffering, and familiar with pain. Like one from whom people hide their faces he was despised, and we held him in low esteem. Surely he took up our pain and bore our suffering, yet we considered him punished by God, stricken by him, and afflicted. But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed. We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to our own way; and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all. He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth; he was led like a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before its shearers is silent, so he did not open his mouth. By oppression and judgment he was taken away. Yet who of his generation protested? For he was cut off from the land of the living; for the transgression of my people he was punished.” - Isaiah 53:3-8 NIV
[2] John 19:1-6+14-16 (NIV) Then Pilate took Jesus and had him flogged. The soldiers twisted together a crown of thorns and put it on his head. They clothed him in a purple robe and went up to him again and again, saying, “Hail, king of the Jews!” And they slapped him in the face. Once more Pilate came out and said to the Jews gathered there, “Look, I am bringing him out to you to let you know that I find no basis for a charge against him.” When Jesus came out wearing the crown of thorns and the purple robe, Pilate said to them, “Here is the man!” As soon as the chief priests and their officials saw him, they shouted, “Crucify! Crucify!” “Here is your king,” Pilate said to the Jews. But they shouted, “Take him away! Take him away! Crucify him!” “Shall I crucify your king?” Pilate asked. “We have no king but Caesar,” the chief priests answered. Finally Pilate handed him over to them to be crucified.
[3] John 8:1-11 “Jesus returned to the Mount of Olives, but early the next morning he was back again at the Temple. A crowd soon gathered, and he sat down and taught them. As he was speaking, the teachers of religious law and the Pharisees brought a woman who had been caught in the act of adultery. They put her in front of the crowd. “Teacher,” they said to Jesus, “this woman was caught in the act of adultery. The law of Moses says to stone her. What do you say?” They were trying to trap him into saying something they could use against him, but Jesus stooped down and wrote in the dust with his finger. They kept demanding an answer, so he stood up again and said, “All right, but let the one who has never sinned throw the first stone!” Then he stooped down again and wrote in the dust. When the accusers heard this, they slipped away one by one, beginning with the oldest, until only Jesus was left in the middle of the crowd with the woman. Then Jesus stood up again and said to the woman, “Where are your accusers? Didn’t even one of them condemn you?” “No, Lord,” she said. And Jesus said, “Neither do I. Go and sin no more.”
Over the last several months, I have been pondering this idea of Jesus being fully God and fully man (human). I am sure that you have heard that said of Jesus. But as I think about it more and more, this causes a problem.
As mentioned in the episode, here is the information about the medical condition:
Hematidrosis can be “caused by extreme distress or fear, such as facing death, torture…”[1]
[1] https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/hematidrosis-hematohidrosis
[1] https://www.gotquestions.org/sweat-blood-Jesus.html
God has always made a way for His people. God provided Noah and his family with a way to survive the flood. God made a way for Israel to cross the Red Sea. God provided a way for the people of Israel to defeat Jericho. I am sure there is a lot more, but you get the idea. But there is another way that God made for us that I want to look at in this post. (The post references Exodus 32 and Leviticus 16 in a paraphrased form.)
What is amazing here is the response of Jesus to the woman! Jesus doesn’t jump up off the well and scold her.... Jesus provided this woman with comfort. (This post references John 4)
We get mad at God because He’s supposed to provide for us and He’s not giving us what need. Or is what we want? This is a good question to ask ourselves.
You are loved by Almighty God. In this episode, I want to look at how God shows us love better than anyone. Let’s start at the beginning. (This episode references Genesis 1-3 in a paraphrased form. Specific quoted Scripture will be noted. [2] Genesis 1:1, MSG [3] Genesis 1:27 + Genesis 2:7 [4] Read about the Day of Atonement in Leviticus 16 [5] Luke 22:42 [6] Romans 8:1 [7] Psalm 34:18 [8] reference 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 NLT; 13:8 NIV)
Faith takes strength. God provided Abraham with the strength to take every step of that journey to the mountain. (Genesis 22 + Hebrews 11:17-19)
We all face circumstances that test our faith. Job loss. Divorce. Loss of a loved one. Medical diagnosis. Illness. Whatever circumstances can be put in this list. We all face circumstances. But we have to have faith through the circumstances like Abraham did. ((The Story of Abraham can be found in Genesis 11:26 - Genesis 25:8. Sections of his story referenced in this episode are from Genesis 12, 15, 16, 17, and 22.))
For the final episode of this series, I wanted to look a different kind of rattle. This is will have some similarities with the previous stories in this series, but I believe that there is some else to learn from this story. In this episode, I want to look at the story of Paul. [This episode references Acts 7-9.]
Continuing on in the RATTLE series, we are looking at one of the healing stories of Jesus. The song referenced in this episode is: Artist: Elevation Worship Song: Rattle! Source: LyricFind Songwriters: Steven Furtick / Chris Brown / Brandon Lake RATTLE! lyrics © Essential Music Publishing, Bethel Music Publishing
Continuing with the “RATTLE” series, let’s dive into a familiar story together. In Luke 19, we find the story of a “wee little man”. If you know the song you probably started singing it to yourself. The song referenced in this episode is Artist: Elevation Worship Song: Rattle! Source: LyricFind Songwriters: Steven Furtick / Chris Brown / Brandon Lake RATTLE! lyrics © Essential Music Publishing, Bethel Music Publishing
On this Easter morning, we remember an event unfold that sent a sound throughout the darkness of that morning. A sound that rattled the lives of people and the whole world. The sound that nothing is impossible for Jesus to overcome. Let’s look at this story together.
Reference for this episode: The Bible Knowledge Commentary by John F. Walvoord and Roy B. Zuck, pages 191-192.
If there was any model of that uncomplicated love - it would be Jesus. This is the very thing that we remember on this day - Good Friday - we remember the uncomplicated love of Jesus.
When thinking of a way to close out this “How To Fight Your Battles” series, I could not think of a better song. In this post, we will be looking at the song “See A Victory” by Elevation Worship. This song came out in 2019 and served as a reminder to me about the victory I had seen in an area of my life. I want to share that story with you.
“The weapon may be formed
But it won't prosper
When the darkness falls, it won't prevail
'Cause the God I serve knows only how to triumph
My God will never fail
Oh, my God will never fail
There's power in the mighty name of Jesus
Every war he wages, He will win
Oh, I'm not backing down from any giant
'Cause, I know how this story ends
Yes, I know how this story ends
I'm gonna see a victory
I'm gonna see a victory
For the battle belongs to you Lord
You take what the enemy meant for evil
And you turn it for good
You turn it for good” [1]
[1] Artist: Elevation Worship
Song: See A Victory
Source: Musixmatch
Songwriters: Jason Ingram / Christopher Joel Brown / Steven Furtick / Ben Fielding
See A Victory lyrics © So Essential Tunes, Be Essential Songs, Shout! Music Publishing Australia
[2] Genesis 37-50, NLT
The song we are looking at in this episode provides me with a reminder. I would say that this can be a battle song, but I feel it reminds me more of who God is.
[1] Artist: Elevation Worship
Song: Authority
Source: LyricFind
Songwriters: Brooke Ligertwood / Christopher Joel Brown / Scott Ligertwood / Steven Furtick
Authority lyrics © Essential Music Publishing
[2] Exodus 14
[3] Luke 5
[4] Mark 11:12-14 + 20-21, NLT
[5] Mark 4:35-41, NLT
[6] Genesis 2:16-17, NLT
[7] Genesis 3
This series has been on my heart for just about a year. I always try to do a song/worship series from time to time as there is always new songs that come out and touch my heart in new ways.
“I’m still amazed at the power of music. It’s fascinating because for so many of us.. it’s a really emotional experience. I want people to know that when they are listening to music and they’re moved by it that God is with them. When the music stirs you and moves you, makes you cry and makes you laugh somehow I really believe that God is with us in those moments. It’s a way that He’s saying ‘I feel it. I understand what life is.’ I think that’s what music was meant to do.” - Don
Join me on the journey through some songs and hear what God says through them.
[1] Exodus 14:15-21, NIV
[2] Artist: The Fray
Song: Be Still
Source: Musixmatch
Songwriters: Benjamin Wysocki / Isaac Edward Slade / David Michael Welsh / Joseph A King
Be Still lyrics © Emi April Music Inc., Little Bike Music, Lincoln & Ollie Music
This series has been on my heart for just about a year. I always try to do a song/worship series from time to time as there is always new songs that come out and touch my heart in new ways.
“I’m still amazed at the power of music. It’s fascinating because for so many of us.. it’s a really emotional experience. I want people to know that when they are listening to music and they’re moved by it that God is with them. When the music stirs you and moves you, makes you cry and makes you laugh somehow I really believe that God is with us in those moments. It’s a way that He’s saying ‘I feel it. I understand what life is.’ I think that’s what music was meant to do.” - Don
Join me on the journey through some songs and hear what God says through them.
[1] Exodus 14-17
[2] Song: Goodness of God
Artist: Bethel Music and Jen Johnson
Songwriters: Jason Ingram / Brian Johnson / Ed Cash / Ben Fielding / Jenn Johnson
Source: Musixmatch
This post references the lyrics of a song. The meaning of the lyrics and the song in this post is my own interpretation.
[3] Good God series
God Isn't Responsible - https://www.thepointoffocus.com/podcast/episode/1d7af5bb/god-isnt-responsible-good-god-series-1-s2e8
DIY God - https://www.thepointoffocus.com/podcast/episode/1c709dd6/diy-god-good-god-series-2-s2e9
Pandora's Box - https://www.thepointoffocus.com/podcast/episode/a88e0929/pandoras-box-good-god-part-3-s2e10
The Mixing Bowl - https://www.thepointoffocus.com/podcast/episode/3c1472d1/the-mixing-bowl-good-god-4-s2e11
Nothing Is Wasted - https://www.thepointoffocus.com/podcast/episode/26b7b127/nothing-is-wasted-good-god-5-s212
[4] after series
better - https://www.thepointoffocus.com/podcast/episode/1be25d3d/better-after-1-s2e13
focus - https://www.thepointoffocus.com/podcast/episode/23159b60/focus-after-2-s2e14
friendships - https://www.thepointoffocus.com/podcast/episode/367ed4e7/friendships-after-3-s2e15
community - https://www.thepointoffocus.com/podcast/episode/1f11949a/community-after-4-s2e16
This series has been on my heart for just about a year. I always try to do a song/worship series from time to time as there is always new songs that come out and touch my heart in new ways.
“I’m still amazed at the power of music. It’s fascinating because for so many of us.. it’s a really emotional experience. I want people to know that when they are listening to music and they’re moved by it that God is with them. When the music stirs you and moves you, makes you cry and makes you laugh somehow I really believe that God is with us in those moments. It’s a way that He’s saying ‘I feel it. I understand what life is.’ I think that’s what music was meant to do.” - Don
Join me on the journey through some songs and hear what God says through them.
[1] Song: Who Am I
Artist: NEEDTOBREATHE
Source: LyricFind
Songwriters: Nathaniel Rinehart / William Rinehart
Who Am I lyrics © Downtown Music Publishing
This post references the lyrics of a song. The meaning of the lyrics and the song in this post is my own interpretation.
[2] Exodus 2-3
[3] 2 Samuel 11-12
This series has been on my heart for just about a year. I always try to do a song/worship series from time to time as there is always new songs that come out and touch my heart in new ways.
“I’m still amazed at the power of music. It’s fascinating because for so many of us.. it’s a really emotional experience. I want people to know that when they are listening to music and they’re moved by it that God is with them. When the music stirs you and moves you, makes you cry and makes you laugh somehow I really believe that God is with us in those moments. It’s a way that He’s saying ‘I feel it. I understand what life is.’ I think that’s what music was meant to do.” - Don
Join me on the journey through some songs and hear what God says through them.
[1] “Surrounded (Fight My Battles)” by Michael W. Smith, 2018
This post references the lyrics of a song. The meaning of the lyrics and the song in this post is my own interpretation
This post references Exodus 14, please read for more details of the story.
Forgiveness can be very complicated. But what if I said that it doesn’t have to be complicated at all. Let’s see what we can learn about forgiveness from another conversation that Jesus has with one of his disciples – Peter.
Oh, the calendar. What an interesting part of life. The calendar can be a really good thing to have around, but it can also be a very stressful thing to have around.
The resource for the "uncomplicated" series is Simplify by Bill Hybels.
The Bible app information: https://www.youversion.com/the-bible-app/
[1] This post references 2 previous posts from The Focus Point
pace - https://www.thepointoffocus.com/post/_pace
that place - https://www.thepointoffocus.com/post/that-place
[2] Simplify by Bill Hybels, 2014, chapter 2
[3] Luke 10:38-42
This is the start of a new year. A new year where God is STILL with us, God is STILL for us, and God STILL has good plans for us. Even though this year is starting much like the last one ended, however, we can have hope going into this year that things can only be better. In last week’s blog post, I introduced my word of the year which is uncomplicated. (If you have not checked out that blog post or podcast episode go and check it out.) We also looked at a story in Luke 10 about Mary and Martha and we will continue to check in with that story throughout this series. In the story, Mary and Martha are both handling a complicated situation, however, they are both handling the situation differently. So, I ask the question… how do you fill up your bucket?
[1] Luke 10:38-42, NIV, NLT, MSG
[2] Mark 6:30-34, NLT
[3] Matthew 8, Matthew 14, Mark 4, Mark 6
Bill Gaultiere, Jesus’ Solitude and Silence, Soul Shepherding, https://www.soulshepherding.org/jesus-solitude-and-silence/
If you looked up the word complicated in the dictionary the definition would be 2020. What a mess this year has been! It has been so complicated. In this episode, I am going to share my word of the year for 2021. Luke 10:38-41, MSG and Luke 10:39, NLT
In this episode, we are looking at Mary's story and how she handled her complicated situation. (Luke 1:26-38)
In episode 2 of the series, we are going to take a look at Joseph's story.
The Christmas season can be very complicated. There is shopping, cooking, and baking. There is putting up the tree, decorating the tree, putting up lights, and all the other decorations. Then wrapping the presents and that can be very complicated- especially if you are me. Then there are family gatherings and people coming to visit. It’s very busy and complicated.
The first Christmas was complicated as well. A lot was going on during that first Christmas season. Over the next few weeks, we are going to dive into this first Christmas and look at some of the complicated moments. I also believe that we will discover some things that we can learn as well. Let jump right in.
This episode references information found at this link https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/matthew-1/amp/
The Christmas season can be very complicated. There is shopping, cooking, and baking. There is putting up the tree, decorating the tree, putting up lights, and all the other decorations. Then wrapping the presents and that can be very complicated- especially if you are me. Then there are family gatherings and people coming to visit. It’s very busy and complicated.
The first Christmas was complicated as well. A lot was going on during that first Christmas season. Over the next few weeks, we are going to dive into this first Christmas and look at some of the complicated moments. I also believe that we will discover some things that we can learn as well. Let jump right in.
Over the last month or so, I have been hearing a song on the radio called “Jericho”. There is a line in the song that stood out to me. The whole song is good don’t get me wrong. But this one line stood out and gave me some encouragement. We are going to look at it in this episode.
“Jericho” by Andrew Ripp
Songwriters: Andrew Ripp / Ethan Hulse
When I think about campfire conversations, I am taken back to my time in youth group and when we went on retreats and to camp. There was always a night when we would sit around the campfire and share stories of how God is working in our lives and offer words of encouragement. So in this series, I hope to offer some encouragement to you. [1] Martin Luther King Jr. “I’ve Been to the Mountaintop” https://www.afscme.org/about/history/mlk/mountaintop [2] https://www.dallasnews.com/opinion/commentary/2018/03/28/mlk-requested-a-song-minutes-before-his-assassination-and-that-tune-comforted-millions/?outputType=amp [3] “Take My Hand, Precious Lord” video https://youtu.be/ZNrVed6dP6s [4] “Take My Hand, Precious Lord” by Thomas A. Dorsey https://www.azlyrics.com/lyrics/jimreeves/takemyhandpreciouslord.html
When I think about campfire conversations, I am taken back to my time in youth group and when we went on retreats and to camp. There was always a night when we would sit around the campfire and share stories of how God is working in our lives and offer words of encouragement. So in this series, I hope to offer some encouragement to you.
Are you tired? Worn out? I don’t know about you, but I am worn out. I am just very tired and drained. But not in the way you might think. I am just worn out and tired from all of the noise of politics and COVID-19.
Have you ever held onto a cactus?? This may seem like a weird question. Join me as we look at the story of the Prodigal Son in Luke 15 in week 1 of this series. In week 2, we will look at another set of brothers and see how they handle a similar situation.
Have you ever held onto a cactus?? This may seem like a weird question. Join me as we look at the story of the Prodigal Son in Luke 15 in week 1 of this series. In week 2, we will look at another set of brothers and see how they handle a similar situation.
Picking up the "AFTER" series after a few month hiatus. This episode goes well with the reason behind the name change. This season of life that we are all in at this time has gotten a lot of people to wonder and ask "when are things going to go back to normal?" But, we are heading for a new normal. God is showing us something new. God wants us to be better after! Let's explore together in this series called "after".
Picking up the "AFTER" series after a few month hiatus. This episode goes well with the reason behind the name change. This season of life that we are all in at this time has gotten a lot of people to wonder and ask "when are things going to go back to normal?" But, we are heading for a new normal. God is showing us something new. God wants us to be better after! Let's explore together in this series called "after".
Picking up the "AFTER" series after a few month hiatus. This episode goes well with the reason behind the name change. This season of life that we are all in at this time has gotten a lot of people to wonder and ask "when are things going to go back to normal?" But, we are heading for a new normal. God is showing us something new. God wants us to be better after! Let's explore together in this series called "after".
This season of life that we are all in at this time has gotten a lot of people to wonder and ask "when are things going to go back to normal?" But, we are heading for a new normal. God is showing us something new. God wants us to be better after! Let's explore together in this series called "after".
In this episode.... God wastes nothing!
In this series... As we are all white knuckling life at this time with outbreak of COVID-19, I wanted to change the direction I was planning on going with upcoming blog posts and podcast episodes, to something that I believe will be more helpful during this time.
Over the last several days and weeks, I have seen many different people on my Facebook asks the question “if God is good why is all of this bad stuff happening?” I also know that the people on my Facebook are not the only ones across the nation and the world right now asking that question. So as I started to ponder what my thoughts were on all of this and we are going to be unpacking that in this series.
In this episode.... how can all of this bad turn into something good?
In this series... As we are all white knuckling life at this time with outbreak of COVID-19, I wanted to change the direction I was planning on going with upcoming blog posts and podcast episodes, to something that I believe will be more helpful during this time.
Over the last several days and weeks, I have seen many different people on my Facebook asks the question “if God is good why is all of this bad stuff happening?” I also know that the people on my Facebook are not the only ones across the nation and the world right now asking that question. So as I started to ponder what my thoughts were on all of this and we are going to be unpacking that in this series.
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The illustration used in this post was provided by Davey Blackburn in a message at Granger Community Church. https://grangerchurch.com/watch/?sapurl=LytkZTNkL2xiL21pLytjY3RmOWRuP2JyYW5kaW5nPXRydWUmZW1iZWQ9dHJ1ZQ==
In this episode.... what happened in the beginning that caused all this trouble??
In this series... As we are all white knuckling life at this time with outbreak of COVID-19, I wanted to change the direction I was planning on going with upcoming blog posts and podcast episodes, to something that I believe will be more helpful during this time.
Over the last several days and weeks, I have seen many different people on my Facebook asks the question “if God is good why is all of this bad stuff happening?” I also know that the people on my Facebook are not the only ones across the nation and the world right now asking that question. So as I started to ponder what my thoughts were on all of this and we are going to be unpacking that in this series.
In this episode.... what happens when we try and make up our own god??
In this series... As we are all white knuckling life at this time with outbreak of COVID-19, I wanted to change the direction I was planning on going with upcoming blog posts and podcast episodes, to something that I believe will be more helpful during this time.
Over the last several days and weeks, I have seen many different people on my Facebook asks the question “if God is good why is all of this bad stuff happening?” I also know that the people on my Facebook are not the only ones across the nation and the world right now asking that question. So as I started to ponder what my thoughts were on all of this and we are going to be unpacking that in this series.
REFERENCED SOURCE
Good God: The One We Want to Believe but Are Afraid to Embrace by Lucas Miles, “Copyright © 2016 by Lucas Miles Published by Worthy Books, an imprint of Worthy Publishing Group, a division of Worthy Media, Inc., One Franklin Park, 6100 Tower Circle, Suite 210, Franklin, TN 37067. WORTHY is a registered trademark of Worthy Media, Inc. HELPING PEOPLE EXPERIENCE THE HEART OF GOD. eBook available wherever digital books are sold.”
In this series... As we are all white knuckling life at this time with outbreak of COVID-19, I wanted to change the direction I was planning on going with upcoming blog posts and podcast episodes, to something that I believe will be more helpful during this time.
Over the last several days and weeks, I have seen many different people on my Facebook asks the question “if God is good why is all of this bad stuff happening?” I also know that the people on my Facebook are not the only ones across the nation and the world right now asking that question. So as I started to ponder what my thoughts were on all of this and we are going to be unpacking that in this series.
In this series, we will be looking at 2 of the storm stories found in the Bible and what they can teach us about the storm that we face in our own life.
In this series, we will be looking at 2 of the storm stories found in the Bible and what they can teach us about the storm that we face in our own life.
In this series, we will be looking at 2 of the storm stories found in the Bible and what they can teach us about the storm that we face in our own life.
In this episode, we are going to be looking at the meaning behind my very first tattoo.
Why does God want our worship? Why does God want to hear our praise?
Special thanks to Elevation Church/Elevation Worship for the following....
Episode image from Elevation Worship.
Opening song from this episode is called "Paradoxology" and is from the album "Paradoxology"
Pastor Steven Furtick segment taken from "This is the Gate." -----> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hSbSlfONMVU
This is a very special look at the very first Easter where there was no cause for celebration just the idea that God had failed.
In this episode, we are going to look at the events Palm Sunday and the mindset the event created for the people as the events of the next week unfolded.
God has always been about second chances - from the very beginning. We are looking at Noah's story in this episode and seeing what the world had quickly become.
We are on to chapter 4 - where the story takes another big turn. This is where we meet Cain and Able. We also see what envy can do in this story.
In this episode, we are going to be looking at Genesis 3 and we are going to see how God handles the circumstances that had just happened in the Garden.
Ah loneliness.... This is something that I have often missed in the early pages of the Bible. I have always picked up on the obvious that is present in Genesis 2. But loneliness?? Join me as I look at this idea of loneliness buried within this early story in the Bible.
As we continue looking at the book of Genesis - we are going to a nice imaginative look at the paradise called the Garden of Eden that God had created for Adam and Eve
God rested?? Really? Did He need to rest or was He introducing a rhythm or model for us to follow. Find out in this episode.
Last episode we saw one way that God started creating things. Join me this episode as we God shift His creating method.
This is part of our series in Genesis. We have broken the book of Genesis down into 3 parts (series). This first series is called “The Dawn” and we are going to be looking at the very first dawn of all time and the dawn of some other things within the first few pages of the Bible.
Video referenced in this episode - Louie Giglio on the Star Maker
This is a special episode in the 7@7 series. In this episode, we are going to look at something that God showed me through what most people consider to be unlikely source.... a movie!!
This is final episode of the Breakthrough series and the final thing that God gave me out of this scene by the Red Sea in Israel's history. In this episode, we look at the topics of prayer and waiting.
This is the 3rd thing that God gave me out of this scene by the Red Sea in Israel's history. This is the 3rd episode in the Breakthrough series. This episode actually came to me in the form of a blog post several months ago. Even though our focus is the scene mentioned above, we are going to get the idea for this episode from the book of Job.
In this episode we continue in the Breakthrough series with the second thing that God gave me out of this one scene in Israel's history. In the last episode we left the nation of Israel on the banks of the Red Sea and we are going to pick them up there again, but we are going to look at from another angle and even though our focus is the scene mentioned above, we are going to get the idea for this episode from a guy by the name of Samuel.
This is the first part of a 3 episode series called "Breakthrough". In this episode, we visit the Israelites at a very big moment in their history.
Latest episode of Second Stage Ministries Podcast. In this episode we look at my word of the year!
The very first episode of Second Stage Ministries Podcast! In this episode we are going to look at a revelation that I had that I think will be helpful to you as well.