This podcast episode explores the biblical dangers of wealth and the call to faithful stewardship through a discussion of John Bunyan's Pilgrim's Progress and key Scripture passages. The speakers analyze how the love of money can distort motives in ministry and daily life, warning against compromising integrity for financial gain or social status. They emphasize that while wealth itself is not sinful, it becomes an idol when it replaces God as the primary focus of one's heart and trust. Practical advice is offered on maintaining financial wisdom, avoiding debt, and teaching children to manage resources with a spirit of generosity and worship. The conversation concludes by encouraging believers to stay fixed on Christ through Scripture, prayer, and accountability to resist the temptation of easy paths.

What did Jesus mean when He told the scribe, "You are not far from the kingdom of God" (Mark 12:34)? Was that a compliment—or a warning? In this verse-by-verse exposition of Mark 12:32–34, we explore one of the most intriguing encounters in Jesus' final week before the cross. A Jewish scribe agrees with Jesus about the greatest commandment, and Jesus responds with words He never speaks to anyone else: "You are not far from the kingdom of God." But what does it mean to be close to God's kingdom without actually entering it? If you enjoy the episode, please consider subscribing to the podcast and leaving a 5-stars rating. This helps others find the podcast. My sermons are the fruit of nearly 30 years of pastoral ministry, biblical counseling, formal seminary training, and a lifelong passion for God's Word. Since childhood, I've been drawn to the beauty and power of expository preaching—opening Scripture verse by verse and applying it to real life. After graduating from Moody Bible Institute, I spent the next 27 years serving as a youth pastor, senior pastor, church planter, and host of the Food For Your Soul radio broadcast. Along the way, I also earned a Master of Sacred Literature and a Doctor of Religious Studies. For more content from D. Richard Ferguson, visit TreasuringGod.com. Follow on social: • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DarrellFerguson • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell.r.ferguson/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.DRichardFerguson

It is at this point that I fall foul of one of those difficulties I spoke about in writing this book. If I were to do justice to my chosen title for this chapter, I would have to repeat the contents of several of my previous books – books such as: Reality for Believers in Death Fivefold Sanctification Believers, the Spirit & the Ekklēsia: Transformation and Unity The Spirit's Work: Regeneration – Transformation – Glorification

The sermon explores the Christian pursuit of discerning and doing God's will, emphasizing that this is the central focus of a believer's life. It outlines three specific tests derived from Romans 12 to evaluate whether a decision aligns with divine purpose: it must be morally good, acceptable to God, and perfecting for the individual's spiritual maturity. The preacher argues that true discernment requires total consecration, rejection of worldly conformity, and constant renewal of the mind through Scripture. By applying these criteria, believers can move from uncertainty to confident obedience, ensuring their actions glorify God and benefit others. Ultimately, following this path leads to genuine joy, contentment, and spiritual fruitfulness.

I. Barzillai's Confession II. Its Passionate Witness III. The King's Kiss

EVENING WORSHIP Hosea 14:1-3 Return Unto the LORD Thy God! I. The Idea of the Call II. The Content of the Call III. The Proclamation of the Call