Is it permissible for Jews who have been converted to retain their Jewish customs? Is it acceptable for Christians to participate in Jewish events or ceremonies? In his message today, Pastor Mark addresses these activities and explains when they become an obstacle and the parameters of this freedom. Engaging with another person's culture can enhance our understanding of non-believers and make sharing the Gospel more effective. For a Jew, being open to the Gospel can be easier when they don't feel compelled to abandon their Jewish cultural practices. These customs do not play a role in our salvation.

There is a barrier of unbelief that prevents people from knowing and experiencing Christ. Only God can remove these obstacles that hinder individuals from receiving Him. In his message today, Pastor Mark discusses how God uses everyday people to help break down these invisible barriers that separate us from God. Pastor Mark emphasizes that nothing is more powerful than Christ’s love. People are drawn to Christ by various means. As they overcome any fear they may have, and we continue to share God’s love with them, they will see the difference in our lives that knowing Christ has made and desire to follow Him as a result.

There are moments when God’s provision confirms your calling. Today, Pastor Mark shares a personal testimony of God’s provision during his early ministry. Throughout scripture, whenever God calls someone, He also provides for them. This truth remains valid today: wherever God guides, He provides. Paul was a tent maker in addition to being a missionary. Often, God calls ministers to work in secular jobs while they serve the church. Although this can be challenging, God uses these experiences as teaching moments. He reminds us every day to rely on Him completely and to patiently wait for His provision.

Are you waiting until you feel more knowledgeable about the Scriptures before you begin witnessing? In today’s message, Pastor Mark addresses this way of thinking and highlights its fallacy. He reminds us that the gospel is simple to share. It is not dependent on your intellect and your persuasive speech. The apostle Paul tried to convert the leaders of Athens using reason and intellect. Later, he said to share the message of Christ and the cross simply. A person only needs to understand that they are sinners, realize that Christ died for their sins, and believe in Him as their Savior and Lord, to obtain salvation.

How handy are you? Can you patch drywall? Swap out a dead outlet? Do you know how to frame out a door? One of the most essential skills for any homeowner to know is how to repair a leak. As any plumber knows, the first step to stopping a leak is turning off the supply, preventing water from hindering the repair. In today’s message, Pastor Mark teaches that the most practical way to fix a leaky spiritual life and feel the presence and power of God is to first slow the leak. If sin keeps flowing out of your heart, it just makes it that much harder to fix. Today, choose repentance and turn from the sins that keep you stuck where you are.

Behind every immaculately trimmed lawn and hidden trash can in the city’s finest subdivision is a wonderful thing called an HOA covenant. They keep cars from parking on the street and make sure all house modifications fit the theme of the neighborhood, but they sure keep things looking great! Today, Pastor Mark teaches that many believers treat tithing like paying HOA dues and expect church membership to keep them looking nice on the inside. However, the reality is that the outside of your house can look clean while the inside is a mess. Only a relationship with Jesus can get your house in order.

It’s so easy to take our food for granted. If you think about the quickest meal you can probably get – a McDonald’s cheeseburger – consider how long it took to be created. The cow for the patty had to grow for several years, as did the wheat for the bun. The lettuce, tomato, and onion didn’t just appear overnight! In today’s message, Pastor Mark isn’t talking about burgers, but he will teach you that spiritual growth takes time. As seeds are planted and watered, one day, enough spiritual formation happens that the results are completely unrecognizable from the initial seed. Transformation is a slow, daily process.

In society, there are all kinds of false gods and idols. Whether it’s social justice issues, sports, food, or social media… all of them can become gods that separate us from the one true God. They creep in and steal our attention, drawing us away from Jesus. It’s often said that if the devil can’t get your heart, he will make you busy. In today’s message, Pastor Mark teaches that Paul sets an example for all of us. He didn’t just sit idly by while these things captured the heart of those around him. He stood up boldly and challenged people to turn to God. Will you follow suit? Will you stand firm in your faith and point people towards Jesus?

People used to walk miles…not steps, not just to the other room, but miles just to read the Word of God and fact-check what they heard to what God said. That is unheard of in today’s society. More often than not, people just take what they hear and either forget about it or take it with the accountability of a person. In today’s message, Pastor Mark will challenge you…how often do you read your Bible? At what lengths are you willing to go to just to make sure you are in right standing with God? Do you spend more time on your phone than you do in the Bible? You can take that step today, make being in the Scripture your #1 priority!

God works in ways that are incomprehensible to our minds. But He gave us His word, the living Bible, to be able to understand a sliver of what He has done, is doing, and even will do! The Bible is a way for us to accept the unknown and learn to trust God because He has proven trustworthy over and over again! In today’s message, Pastor Mark will invite you to fact-check everything you come across in the Bible. Whether you’re making a simple choice or receiving advice or guidance from pastors, check if it aligns with what God has clearly said and stated in HIS Word! The Bible is applicable today…use it!!!