Agape Radio

The suffering of Jesus was voluntary. In today’s message, Pastor Terry reminds us that it was not the handcuffs or chains that held Jesus captive, but His love for us. Jesus could have called ten legions of angels to rescue Him. God likely had to restrain the angels when they saw Jesus being assaulted. His love provided redemption, endured persecution, and paid the penalty for our sins. He was willing to go to the cross out of His great love for us, submitting to God’s will and providing for our salvation.

Worship isn’t just something that happens on Sunday mornings. Every moment can be lived out in a form of worship. Does this mean you need to constantly recite Scripture or hum a praise song? You’re welcome to do that – but that’s not the only way to honor Him. Whether you're pushing papers, mopping floors, teaching children, changing diapers, or whatever your job may look like, as Pastor Terry reminds us today, when we turn our hearts towards God, we can worship Him in everything we do.

The Jews were looking for freedom from the oppressive Roman Empire. They desired a Messiah who would rule the world and crush their enemies. God does not approve of oppressive regimes or those who step on and abuse others. But, what’s at the root of that oppression? Sin. …Sin is what Jesus came to free us from. As Pastor Terry will point out in today’s message, the freedom Jesus brought not only could free the Jews, but even their persecutors from the sin that fueled their tyranny. 

Happiness can fluctuate with your daily circumstances. No one’s happy when they get in a car accident, the roof of the house needs repairing, or that relationship is strained and they can’t find reconciliation. That doesn’t feel good. But, as Pastor Terry will remind us in today’s message, in those moments where life is hard, we still have a deeper hope in Jesus, and that can bring joy to our hearts. No matter how bad it may get all around us, we’re loved, and He’s promised us eternal peace with Him.

Jesus is divisive. Scripture warned us that He would be, and if you actively live out your faith in Him, you’ve likely seen this firsthand. Our goal should never be to offend, but to demonstrate love and invite the lost into restoration. However, sin has a way of blinding the enslaved to hope. They’ll often interpret your efforts as an extension of judgment instead of a lifeline. As Pastor Terry will challenge us in today’s message, we need to remain faithful to Jesus’ message of hope and grace. 

Most biblical prophecies are yet to be fulfilled. In today’s message, Pastor Terry encourages us with God’s promises for our future. He highlights that we are witnessing many prophecies come to pass, right before our eyes. He also speaks about the promise of the Holy Spirit, which God has sent to guide and empower us. Pastor Terry reminds us that the true work of the Holy Spirit always glorifies Jesus. We can live with confidence, knowing God will enable us to accomplish His will.

Do you remember the events that brought conviction to your heart prior to salvation? Today, Pastor Terry reminds you that God uses people and events to reach every person on earth and show them their need for Christ. People can either respond to His prompting or reject it. Sometimes, they try to drown out God’s conviction with worldly pleasures, work, or drugs. They are often very close to salvation during these times. You and other believers can stand in the gap and continue to pray for the lost.

The central issue in fulfilling God’s will and performing the works He desires of us revolves around the question Pilate asked: “What will you do with Jesus?” In today’s message, Pastor Terry reminds us that our belief in Jesus and His finished work of redemption is the foundation of everything we do. Our acceptance by Him, our desire to share our faith, and our good works are all motivated by His sacrifice on the cross. Ultimately, rejecting Jesus is the only sin that can lead to condemnation.

A remarkable example of transformation is the life of Paul. In his message today, Pastor Terry reflects on the actions and beliefs of the Apostle Paul, prior to his encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus, and the significant change that Christ made in his life. Paul went from persecuting Christians and advocating for their deaths to boldly preaching before King Agrippa. He had believed he was doing God's will by destroying Christians. Paul’s conversion illustrates how the gospel can change lives.

Our society is built on envy and jealousy. Watch a TV show or scroll through social media for a few minutes, and you’ll find yourself pressured to buy some product, start some new diet, or use some app in order to be more like those happy people in the ads. As Pastor Terry will remind us in today’s message, these temporary things will never satisfy. Only when we abide in Christ and allow the Holy Spirit to guide us and bear fruit in our lives can we find contentment and lasting joy.