Jesus tells the believers in Pergamos that Satan has taken up residence in their city.

Our text in this study is: Revelation 2:12-17

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Welcome to our continued verse-by-verse Bible study in the book of Revelation, where we approach the Word of God seeking understanding for our lives today. This message, “Please Don’t You Be My Neighbor,” is the latest in our series exploring the letters to the 7 Churches of Revelation. Today, we focus on the challenging conditions facing the believers in Pergamos (or Pergamum), which mirror the spiritual battles fought by Christian believers in the 21st century.

The Challenge: Living vs. Dying for Jesus

Wielding the Sharp Two-Edged Sword

The Doctrine of Balaam and False Teaching

Repentance and the Overcomer’s Promise

Jesus tells the believers in Pergamos that Satan has taken up residence in their city.

Our text in this study is: Revelation 2:12-17

Subscribe on YouTube at:

Read the notes at:

Find audio, video, and text of hundreds of other studies through the Bible at https://calvaryhanford.com/

Welcome to our continued verse-by-verse Bible study in the book of Revelation, where we approach the Word of God seeking understanding for our lives today. This message, “Please Don’t You Be My Neighbor,” is the latest in our series exploring the letters to the 7 Churches of Revelation. Today, we focus on the challenging conditions facing the believers in Pergamos (or Pergamum), which mirror the spiritual battles fought by Christian believers in the 21st century.

The Challenge: Living vs. Dying for Jesus

Wielding the Sharp Two-Edged Sword

The Doctrine of Balaam and False Teaching

Repentance and the Overcomer’s Promise

In his recent book, Randy Kay writes, “For centuries, Revelation 13 sounded impossible. Today, it reads more like a headline.”

Pastor Gene Pensiero

Find audio, video, and text of hundreds of other prophecy updates at: https://calvaryhanford.com/prophecy

Read along with us at https://calvaryhanford.substack.com

Follow us on YouTube at https://youtube.com/calvaryhanford

—

The Surge of Technology and Globalism

We examine the disturbing arrogance reflected in naming these projects—claiming to “rewrite the ending” of the Tower of Babel—and how such developments directly promote globalism and pave the way for a powerful leader to emerge, confirming the prophetic warnings in the book of Revelation.

Prophetic Signposts and The Time of Noah

Perhaps most remarkably, we look at the potential discovery of Noah’s Ark in Turkey’s Durupinar Formation. Jesus Christ Himself said the End Times would be “as it was in the days of Noah.” What stronger prophetic sign could there be than the literal confirmation of the Ark?

Keep Looking Up: Hope in Jesus Christ

If you are new to Bible study, seeking to grow your faith, or looking for Christianity videos that focus on Jesus and spirituality, we encourage you to stay ready, keep looking up, and prepare for the return of the Lord. Ready or not, Jesus is coming!

In his recent book, Randy Kay writes, “For centuries, Revelation 13 sounded impossible. Today, it reads more like a headline.”

Pastor Gene Pensiero

Find audio, video, and text of hundreds of other prophecy updates at: https://calvaryhanford.com/prophecy

Read along with us at https://calvaryhanford.substack.com

Follow us on YouTube at https://youtube.com/calvaryhanford

—

The Surge of Technology and Globalism

We examine the disturbing arrogance reflected in naming these projects—claiming to “rewrite the ending” of the Tower of Babel—and how such developments directly promote globalism and pave the way for a powerful leader to emerge, confirming the prophetic warnings in the book of Revelation.

Prophetic Signposts and The Time of Noah

Perhaps most remarkably, we look at the potential discovery of Noah’s Ark in Turkey’s Durupinar Formation. Jesus Christ Himself said the End Times would be “as it was in the days of Noah.” What stronger prophetic sign could there be than the literal confirmation of the Ark?

Keep Looking Up: Hope in Jesus Christ

If you are new to Bible study, seeking to grow your faith, or looking for Christianity videos that focus on Jesus and spirituality, we encourage you to stay ready, keep looking up, and prepare for the return of the Lord. Ready or not, Jesus is coming!

Jesus uses spit and fingers to heal a deaf man, but more than a miracle is happening here: This reveals something Messianic about Jesus and something malicious in our hearts.

Our text in this study is: Mark 7:31-37

Find the rest of the series at https://calvaryhanford.com/whodoyousay

Subscribe on YouTube at:

Read the notes at:

Find audio, video, and text of hundreds of other studies through the Bible at https://calvaryhanford.com/

Falling On Deaf Hearts (Mark 7:31-37) | Why Jesus Commanded Silence After a Miracle

A Study in Spiritual Deafness and Divine Power: Join us in this Bible study as we journey with Jesus through the region of the Decapolis (a non-Jewish, Gentile territory) and examine a powerful, specifically Messianic miracle recorded only in Mark’s Gospel (Mark 7:31-37). The story begins with a man who is deaf and has a serious speech impediment. His friends bring him to Jesus, perhaps hoping only for a simple blessing, but they witness something far greater: an undeniable sign that the long-expected Messiah has arrived.

The Significance of the Miracle and the Spitting: We dive into the fascinating details of Jesus’ unique, personal interaction with the man. Why did Jesus take him away from the crowd? Why the touching of the tongue and the (admittedly awkward!) use of saliva? This hands-on, deeply personal moment reveals Jesus’ compassion and serves as a powerful illustration that He desires total access to our hearts and lives, like a loving Father and trusted Physician, to expose the sickness and dry rot of sin. We’ll connect this miracle to the Old Testament prophecy of Isaiah 35:5-6—a clear indicator for those searching for the Kingdom of Heaven and the Son of God.

The Paradox of Disobedience: Here’s the kicker: After Jesus immediately heals the man—opening his ears and loosening his tongue with the simple Aramaic command, “Ephphatha!” (Be Opened!)—He issues a strict order: “Tell no one.” Yet, the people immediately and repeatedly disobey the very One who performed the supernatural cure! It’s a jaw-dropping paradox. They were extremely astonished and convinced that “He has done everything well,” but they refused to submit to His direction.

The Danger of a Deaf Heart: This passage serves as a mirror reflecting the stubbornness and rebellion in our hearts. The men who could physically hear refused to listen to Jesus, and those who could speak would not bridle their tongues at His command. We are often prone to spiritual deafness—quick to welcome God’s provision and power, but resistant to His correction, restrictions, or dominion over our self-governance. We must remind ourselves that Jesus’ goodness and wellness extend to His commands, even when they challenge our independence.

A Call to Obedience and Transformation: This Calvary Chapel message urges Christians and those interested in spirituality to move beyond mere excitement about Jesus’ power. The true healing work must happen in the heart so that we can truly hear God’s word and be transformed. Let’s learn from the contrast in this story and submit our lives to the Lord, seeking to be led in His everlasting way and sent out with His message to proclaim.

Joseph considers divorcing Mary but an angel appears to him and commands him to not be afraid to take her as wife and adopt the Baby she delivers.

Matthew 1:18-25

Gene Pensiero Jr

https://www.calvaryhanford.com

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Discover the Story of Christmas: Join us for a verse-by-verse Bible study through Matthew 1:18-25 as we explore the often-overlooked first angel visit connected to the birth of Jesus Christ—the one that spoke to Joseph, the carpenter. The Christmas narrative is filled with celestial activity, with angels delivering glad tidings to a variety of people: a priest, a young bride, shepherds, and, here, Joseph. Each divine encounter serves a specific purpose in announcing that the Savior is born, the Hope of the world, the Eternal King who has come to rule and rescue us.

Joseph, Righteousness, and Godly Morality: This passage reveals incredible truths about Joseph, a righteous man wrestling with the seemingly scandalous pregnancy of his betrothed, Mary. We use this foundational text to discuss the crucial, time-honored principles of Godly morality and sexual purity that God has given for our blessing, contrasting it with the broken promises of the world. Understanding first-century Jewish betrothal customs is essential to appreciating the weight of Joseph’s decision to divorce her secretly—a decision driven by both his desire to honor God and his compassion for Mary. The text shows us how Godly principles applied with love are the keys to navigating life’s most difficult situations.

The Angel’s Instruction: Jesus Saves From Sins: The angel’s message to Joseph in a dream changes everything. We study the instruction to take Mary as your wife and the vital command to name him Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins. This is the core message of the Gospel: Jesus did not come for political change or material wealth, but to deliver us from the devastating effects of sin. We challenge every believer to examine their life: Are you playing with sin? Are you one of Jesus’ people? Salvation is a free gift offered by Christ, but it requires that we give our lives to Him.

Fulfillment of Prophecy and Immanuel: Matthew provides powerful Scriptural proofs that Jesus is the long-awaited Messiah, showing that God always fulfills His promises. We explore the profound meaning of the name Immanuel, which is translated “God is with us.” This powerful name reminds us of the intimate relationship believers share with their Savior.

Practical Application for the Christian Life: Joseph’s immediate and obedient response to the Lord’s command—even denying himself for a time by not having sexual relations with her until she gave birth—serves as a powerful model of devotion. This story encourages all Bible study enthusiasts and those interested in Christianity and spirituality to practice trust and obedience. Don’t be afraid to walk by faith! God’s promise to you is the same as the angel’s: “Do not fear, I will help you.”

Joseph considers divorcing Mary but an angel appears to him and commands him to not be afraid to take her as wife and adopt the Baby she delivers.

Matthew 1:18-25

Gene Pensiero Jr

https://www.calvaryhanford.com

Find us on Substack

Find us on Apple TV

Find us on Roku

Find us on Amazon Fire TV

Discover the Story of Christmas: Join us for a verse-by-verse Bible study through Matthew 1:18-25 as we explore the often-overlooked first angel visit connected to the birth of Jesus Christ—the one that spoke to Joseph, the carpenter. The Christmas narrative is filled with celestial activity, with angels delivering glad tidings to a variety of people: a priest, a young bride, shepherds, and, here, Joseph. Each divine encounter serves a specific purpose in announcing that the Savior is born, the Hope of the world, the Eternal King who has come to rule and rescue us.

Joseph, Righteousness, and Godly Morality: This passage reveals incredible truths about Joseph, a righteous man wrestling with the seemingly scandalous pregnancy of his betrothed, Mary. We use this foundational text to discuss the crucial, time-honored principles of Godly morality and sexual purity that God has given for our blessing, contrasting it with the broken promises of the world. Understanding first-century Jewish betrothal customs is essential to appreciating the weight of Joseph’s decision to divorce her secretly—a decision driven by both his desire to honor God and his compassion for Mary. The text shows us how Godly principles applied with love are the keys to navigating life’s most difficult situations.

The Angel’s Instruction: Jesus Saves From Sins: The angel’s message to Joseph in a dream changes everything. We study the instruction to take Mary as your wife and the vital command to name him Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins. This is the core message of the Gospel: Jesus did not come for political change or material wealth, but to deliver us from the devastating effects of sin. We challenge every believer to examine their life: Are you playing with sin? Are you one of Jesus’ people? Salvation is a free gift offered by Christ, but it requires that we give our lives to Him.

Fulfillment of Prophecy and Immanuel: Matthew provides powerful Scriptural proofs that Jesus is the long-awaited Messiah, showing that God always fulfills His promises. We explore the profound meaning of the name Immanuel, which is translated “God is with us.” This powerful name reminds us of the intimate relationship believers share with their Savior.

Practical Application for the Christian Life: Joseph’s immediate and obedient response to the Lord’s command—even denying himself for a time by not having sexual relations with her until she gave birth—serves as a powerful model of devotion. This story encourages all Bible study enthusiasts and those interested in Christianity and spirituality to practice trust and obedience. Don’t be afraid to walk by faith! God’s promise to you is the same as the angel’s: “Do not fear, I will help you.”

Ruth gives birth to a son, but as the book closes the focus is back on Naomi, whose life, heart, and future have all been transformed by God’s tender mercy.

Our text in this study is: Ruth 4:13-22

Find the rest of the series at https://calvaryhanford.com/thegleaninglady

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In this conclusion to our study through the Book of Ruth, we arrive at a scene of total restoration. “The Boss’ Baby” (Ruth 4:13-22) takes us from the threshing floor to the nursery, where we see God’s providence on full display. Naomi, who returned to Bethlehem in chapter one empty and bitter, is now fully restored. She holds a grandson, Obed, in her lap—a child who becomes a “life-restorer” and a nourisher of her old age.

This verse-by-verse teaching explores the dramatic progression of Ruth’s life. We trace her journey from being a destitute foreigner and a beggar in the fields to becoming a bride and a mother in Israel. This narrative serves as a powerful picture of the Gospel and our own spiritual biography. As outlined in Ephesians 2, we see how God takes those who are strangers to the covenants of promise and draws them near through the blood of a Redeemer.

From a Calvary Chapel perspective, we examine the theological depth of the “Kinsman-Redeemer.” Boaz did not merely marry Ruth; he acted to save a family line from extinction. This points us directly to Jesus Christ, the true Redeemer who pays the expense to ransom us from death and bring us into His family. We also discuss the power of hesed—God’s loyal, active love—and how it is superior to any human resource or cultural ideal.

Finally, we look at the “stinger” at the end of the book. Just as a post-credits scene in a movie sets up a sequel, the genealogy in verses 18-22 connects the line of Perez to the future glory of Israel. We analyze the Hebrew concept of toledot (family records) and how this list of ten names links the promises of Genesis to the arrival of King David. It is a reminder that God is always working behind the scenes of history to bring about the Messiah.

Whether you are studying the Old Testament, interested in the lineage of Jesus, or searching for hope during a difficult season, this message is a reminder that God has not forgotten you. He is the God who turns sorrow into joy and emptiness into fullness.

Ruth gives birth to a son, but as the book closes the focus is back on Naomi, whose life, heart, and future have all been transformed by God’s tender mercy.

Our text in this study is: Ruth 4:13-22

Find the rest of the series at https://calvaryhanford.com/thegleaninglady

Subscribe on YouTube at:

Read the notes at:

In this conclusion to our study through the Book of Ruth, we arrive at a scene of total restoration. “The Boss’ Baby” (Ruth 4:13-22) takes us from the threshing floor to the nursery, where we see God’s providence on full display. Naomi, who returned to Bethlehem in chapter one empty and bitter, is now fully restored. She holds a grandson, Obed, in her lap—a child who becomes a “life-restorer” and a nourisher of her old age.

This verse-by-verse teaching explores the dramatic progression of Ruth’s life. We trace her journey from being a destitute foreigner and a beggar in the fields to becoming a bride and a mother in Israel. This narrative serves as a powerful picture of the Gospel and our own spiritual biography. As outlined in Ephesians 2, we see how God takes those who are strangers to the covenants of promise and draws them near through the blood of a Redeemer.

From a Calvary Chapel perspective, we examine the theological depth of the “Kinsman-Redeemer.” Boaz did not merely marry Ruth; he acted to save a family line from extinction. This points us directly to Jesus Christ, the true Redeemer who pays the expense to ransom us from death and bring us into His family. We also discuss the power of hesed—God’s loyal, active love—and how it is superior to any human resource or cultural ideal.

Finally, we look at the “stinger” at the end of the book. Just as a post-credits scene in a movie sets up a sequel, the genealogy in verses 18-22 connects the line of Perez to the future glory of Israel. We analyze the Hebrew concept of toledot (family records) and how this list of ten names links the promises of Genesis to the arrival of King David. It is a reminder that God is always working behind the scenes of history to bring about the Messiah.

Whether you are studying the Old Testament, interested in the lineage of Jesus, or searching for hope during a difficult season, this message is a reminder that God has not forgotten you. He is the God who turns sorrow into joy and emptiness into fullness.

Jesus refers to a Syrophoenician woman as a dog. Was it out of harsh reluctance to help her or is something more going on?

Our text in this study is: Mark 7:24-30

Find the rest of the series at https://calvaryhanford.com/whodoyousay

Subscribe on YouTube at:

Read the notes at:

Find audio, video, and text of hundreds of other studies through the Bible at https://calvaryhanford.com/

Did Jesus actually insult a woman calling for help? In this verse-by-verse Bible study of Mark 7:24-30, we encounter one of the most difficult and controversial moments in the earthly ministry of Jesus. A Gentile woman falls at His feet begging for her daughter to be delivered from a demon, and Jesus responds by saying it is not right to take the children’s bread and throw it to the dogs.

In this message, titled “Let The Little Dog Eat,” we dig deep into the context, the original language, and the theology behind this interaction to understand what is really happening. Is the Lord being harsh, or is He revealing a specific progression in God’s plan of salvation?

We examine the setting in the region of Tyre and Sidon—modern-day Lebanon—where Jesus sought seclusion and rest. This raises important questions about the sovereignty of God and the free will of man. There is a teaching that God causes every atom and activity, yet the text shows us that Jesus desired privacy but could not escape notice. We discuss how God is powerful enough to accomplish His will while allowing human choices, even when those choices interrupt His plans.

This video also explores the “hard sayings of Jesus.” We look at the distinction between the “children” (the lost sheep of Israel) and the “dogs” (Gentiles), and how this Syrophoenician woman responds not with offense, but with incredible humility and faith. She accepts her position outside the covenant of Israel and appeals solely to the grace of the Master. This is the only time in Mark’s Gospel that Jesus is addressed as “Lord,” and it comes from a pagan-born woman.

We also compare this account to 1 Kings 17, where the prophet Elijah ministered to a widow in this same region. While Elijah had to pray repeatedly for a miracle, Jesus heals the woman’s daughter instantly from a distance, proving that He is greater than the prophets—He is the Messiah and God in the flesh.

Join us as we learn what it looks like to approach God with no pretense of self-righteousness, relying entirely on His mercy. This study is for anyone who wants to understand the Bible, the nature of grace, and what it means to make Jesus the true Master of your life.

Topics: Gospel of Mark, Mark 7, Syrophoenician Woman, Jesus heals, Bible Study, Calvary Chapel, Expository Preaching, Sovereignty of God, Free Will, Theology, Tyre and Sidon, Christian Faith, Humility, Grace.