Are you buried in debt—not financial, but spiritual? The good news is that Jesus paid it all. In this powerful and grace-filled conclusion to the book of Philemon, Pastor Mike Massey teaches verses 17–25 in our Daily Verse By Verse Christian podcast, reminding us that the debt of sin we owe has already been paid in full by Jesus Christ. This 10-minute daily Bible study helps listeners experience God’s love, apply God’s Word, and grow in biblical understanding—one verse at a time.

In these final verses, we see the Apostle Paul pleading with Philemon to accept Onesimus, a runaway slave who has come to faith in Christ, not as a slave, but as a beloved brother in the Lord. Paul writes, “If you count me as a partner, receive him as you would me.” This powerful statement mirrors the heart of the gospel: Jesus stands in our place, and we are received by the Father as if we were Christ Himself—because of His righteousness, not ours.

📖 Verse by verse, Pastor Mike unpacks the depth of this truth:

• Philemon 17 shows Paul asking Philemon to treat Onesimus as he would Paul—just as God receives us through the righteousness of Christ.

• Philemon 18 says, “If he has wronged you or owes anything, put that on my account.” This is a vivid image of how Jesus puts our sins on His account and pays our eternal debt.

• Philemon 19–20 expresses joy and confidence in Christian transformation: Paul reminds Philemon that he owes his own spiritual life to Paul’s ministry and now has the opportunity to walk out that grace by forgiving Onesimus.

• Verses 21–22 show Paul’s faith in Philemon’s obedience and hope for reunion, reflecting the power of Christian fellowship and restoration.

• Verses 23–25 end with warm greetings and a blessing of grace—the foundation of our faith and the defining difference between Christianity and every other religion.

This episode emphasizes the beauty of God’s love, redemption, and the transformation that comes through the gospel. We are reminded that Satan is the debt collector, always trying to condemn and derail us. But when we accept Jesus as Lord, our sin-debt is canceled forever. The devil has no hold on us.

⛓️ Religion binds. Grace frees. Under religion, we work to earn salvation. Under grace, we serve because we are saved. It’s not about “have to”—it’s about “want to.” True followers of Jesus are compelled by love to worship, obey, teach, and forgive. This freedom empowers us to become disciple-makers, just like Paul, just like Philemon, just like you.

✨ This episode also explores how:

• The Bible doesn’t condone slavery—rather, it showcases the radical reconciliation of the gospel.

• Forgiveness and reconciliation are fruits of a transformed heart.

• We are called to refresh each other’s hearts in the Lord, just as Paul was refreshed by Philemon's faith.

• Historical and traditional clues suggest Philemon likely forgave Onesimus and Onesimus may have even become a bishop in the early church—further proof of how God can radically redeem lives.

💡 Whether you're new to the Bible or a seasoned believer, this episode will deepen your understanding of God’s Word, stir your heart with the truth of the gospel, and remind you that your debt is paid. You don’t have to carry it anymore. Just receive it. Receive Him.

🙏 If you’ve never accepted Jesus as your Savior, today is the day. There's no magic formula. Just confess He is Lord, that He is God, and surrender your life to Him. That’s where freedom starts.

🎧 Subscribe to the Daily Verse by Verse Christian podcast to continue studying the Bible daily. We teach verse by verse, apply God’s Word to everyday life, and proclaim God's love and truth without compromise.

Also check out our sister program: Reborn 4Purpose—a powerful resource for personal testimony, biblical encouragement, and real-life transformation stories.

When tragedy strikes, how do we respond? The recent devastating floods in Kerrville, Hunt, and Camp Mystic, Texas have left communities shaken—physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Some are grieving, some are angry, and others are more alert than ever to the brevity and fragility of life. In today’s special episode of the Daily Verse by Verse Christian podcast, Pastor Mike Massey speaks into the heart of the storm with the unchanging hope of God’s love and God’s Word.

📖 This is not a news report—it’s a biblical reflection. Through Scripture and personal testimony, Mike explores how disasters can ignite deeper faith, awaken eternal purpose, and build a stronger trust in Jesus Christ. This isn’t just a daily Bible study—it’s a reminder that life is not a dress rehearsal. It’s the one and only chance we get to know Jesus, live for Him, and point others to the cross.

In this raw and powerful episode, you’ll hear:

• The honest emotional responses to tragedy: anger, anxiety, and awareness

• Why shaking your fist at God is a natural step—but shouldn't be your last one

• How God uses pain to bring purpose, revival, and testimonies that can change lives

• The butterfly effect of obedience, where your response today impacts generations

• That today is a gift, and no moment is promised except the one you're living

• Why God doesn’t waste pain, even when we don’t understand it

• The difference between biblical peace and worldly peace—found in Philippians 4:6–7

• Why Romans 8:28 and James 1:2 are lifelines for suffering hearts

🔥 Mike shares powerful personal stories—from near-death experiences in floods to the death of two of his own children at birth, to his daughter’s near-drowning, and miraculous moments where God intervened. These testimonies are real, raw, and rooted in the hope of eternity. They’re not just stories—they're reminders that Jesus loves me, God’s Word is alive, and faith isn't just for calm seasons—it’s forged in the fire.

🙌 Even when it feels like God is distant, the Bible tells us that He is near to the brokenhearted. And for those affected by the Texas floods—whether directly or through loved ones—this episode offers a heartfelt prayer and a clear reminder: Jesus is still on the throne. He sees your tears. He hears your prayers. He knows your pain. And He will use this storm to draw people closer to Himself.

🌱 Tragedy becomes testimony when we surrender our pain to the Lord. This flood may become the defining moment in someone’s spiritual journey—the moment they go from religion to relationship, from fear to faith, from being spiritually dead to reborn in Christ. That's not just emotional hope—that's biblical truth. Mike reminds listeners: "If you’re still here, God still has a purpose for your life."

💬 He challenges us all to:

• Hug your kids tighter

• Let go of petty anger

• Stop taking days for granted

• Press into God, even in the darkness

• Share the gospel boldly

• Understand that eternity is real, and this life is the only chance we get to choose Christ

🕊️ At the end of the day, the worst thing that can happen on earth (death) is actually the best thing that can happen for a believer—eternity in heaven with Jesus. And if you’re still here, there’s still Kingdom work to do.

🎧 Tune in now to hear how God’s love still shines through the storm, and why Jesus is the only way, the truth, and the life—the only escape from spiritual death, the only answer in chaos, and the only One who can bring true peace and purpose from tragedy.

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This is more than a Bible recap. It’s an invitation to hope, faith, and transformation. Subscribe now to Daily Verse By Verse to grow in your faith, walk in truth, and be reminded daily that Jesus paid it all, and God’s Word still speaks.

🙏 Also check out our sister ministry: Reborn 4Purpose – stories of transformation, purpose, and the powerful ways God uses our pain to reach others.

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12 core reasons why you can trust that the Bible is God'sWord to us. Do you know these 12? Memorize these because you can use them toshare the gospel with unbelievers and doubters. Reason #9 of 12.

Here are bullet points highlighting why over 30 extra-biblical sources confirming Jesus are so significant:

• Independent verification: Non-Christian historians and writers — even enemies of Christianity — recorded details about Jesus, confirming He was a real person.

• Affirms crucifixion: Roman and Jewish sources, including Tacitus and the Talmud, clearly state Jesus was executed by crucifixion, matching the Gospel accounts.

• Resurrection claims acknowledged: These writers noted that Jesus’ followers believed He rose from the dead — showing this was not a legend invented centuries later.

• Josephus’ record: The Jewish historian Flavius Josephus (first century) wrote about Jesus as a wise teacher who was crucified under Pilate.

• Roman acknowledgment: Tiberius Caesar’s era records, and references by Tacitus, confirm Christianity spread rapidly in Rome after Jesus’ death.

• Confirms the Bible’s trustworthiness: These external sources support what the New Testament already claims about Jesus’ life, death, and the belief in His resurrection.

12 core reasons why you can trust that the Bible is God'sWord to us. Do you know these 12? Memorize these because you can use them toshare the gospel with unbelievers and doubters. Reason #8 of 12.

Here are bullet points on why it’s powerful that there are over 20,000 archaeological discoveries supporting the Bible:

• Confirms historical accuracy: Archaeology verifies names, places, and events recorded in Scripture.

• Silences critics: Many who claimed the Bible was myth have been proven wrong by these finds.

• Validates real people and places: From ancient kings to everyday towns, archaeology supports their existence as described in the Bible.

• Supports eyewitness reliability: Shows that biblical authors were recording real history, not legends.

• Strengthens trust: Physical evidence backs up what the Bible has said all along, reinforcing its truth and reliability.

Here are two powerful archaeological examples that silenced skeptics:

The Hittites

• Skeptics once claimed the Hittites mentioned in the Old Testament were fictional, because there was no evidence they ever existed.

• In the early 1900s, archaeologists uncovered Hittite capital cities and thousands of Hittite records in modern-day Turkey, fully confirming their existence and advanced civilization — exactly as the Bible described.

Pontius Pilate inscription

• Some scholars doubted whether Pontius Pilate, who sentenced Jesus to death, was a real historical figure.

• In 1961, archaeologists found a stone in Caesarea Maritima with an inscription naming Pontius Pilate as “Prefect of Judea,” confirming his historical existence just as recorded in the Gospels.

12 core reasons why you can trust that the Bible is God'sWord to us. Do you know these 12? Memorize these because you can use them toshare the gospel with unbelievers and doubters. Reason #7 of 12.

Here are bullet points on why it’s so significant that there are over 24,000 manuscripts of the New Testament:

• Unmatched manuscript evidence: No other ancient document comes close to this level of preservation and verification.

• Textual reliability: With so many copies to compare, scholars can confidently reconstruct the original text with incredible accuracy.

• Proof of careful transmission: Shows that early Christians were committed to preserving and passing on God’s Word faithfully.

• Eliminates doubt: The sheer volume of manuscripts leaves no room for the idea that the Bible was changed or corrupted over time.

• Historically credible: Provides more historical support than any other ancient writing, confirming the Bible’s authenticity.

Pastor Mike Massey dedicates this episode to those affected by the Kerrville and Camp Mystic tragedies, acknowledging the deep pain and grief while reminding listeners that thousands, even millions, are praying for them. He encourages the hurting to know that God is still in control, even when circumstances seem unbearable, and that God’s love surrounds them.

Pastor Mike shares his own story of loss, having lost a daughter and a son, and how God used Philippians 4:6–7 to bring him peace: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God which transcends all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” He emphasizes that while scars remain, God can fill the holes in our hearts and give us hope of reunion in heaven, where there is no more pain or tears.

He reminds believers that tragedies often shift our focus from earthly worries to what truly matters: relationships, faith, and eternity. In the Bible, Job’s friends tried to place blame, but true comfort came in simply being present. Likewise, Pastor Mike urges us to love on those who are hurting with no magic words—just prayer, presence, and support.

Referencing the book A Future and a Hope by John Corson, who also experienced profound loss, Pastor Mike highlights how pressing into Jesus rather than turning away in pain leads to healing. He cautions against shaking a fist at God in anger, reminding us that Jesus is there with open arms, ready to love and heal.

He also challenges listeners to consider whether they are truly reborn in Christ or simply “churched but not changed.” Pastor Mike describes his own transformation at age 33, moving from a casual faith to a real, saving relationship with Jesus. He urges anyone listening who has not been reborn spiritually to make today the day of salvation, quoting Romans 10:9: “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”

As he closes, Pastor Mike calls for forgiveness toward those who might be blamed for tragedies, warning that bitterness and unforgiveness can lead to broken relationships and personal destruction. He encourages everyone to follow God’s example of forgiveness.

Pastor Mike shares how this tragedy hits close to home, affecting close friends, coworkers, and his community. He stresses that the message is not about him but about Jesus, forgiveness, hope, and being there for one another. He urges everyone listening to lean into God’s promises and pray for peace that transcends understanding, even through unimaginable pain.

If you have not yet accepted Christ, Pastor Mike pleads that today is the day: life is a vapor, tomorrow is not promised. Jesus offers salvation freely if you confess Him as Lord and believe. Through all the heartbreak, Pastor Mike closes with a prayer for God’s peace and comfort for all who are suffering, reminding them that God never wastes pain and that He is always ready to embrace us with His unconditional love.

12 core reasons why you can trust that the Bible is God'sWord to us. Do you know these 12? Memorize these because you can use them toshare the gospel with unbelievers and doubters. Reason #6 of 12.

here are bullet points on why the fulfillment of over 300 prophecies by Jesus is so powerful:

• Statistically impossible: The odds of one person fulfilling even a handful of specific ancient prophecies is astronomical, let alone 300+.

• Written centuries before: These prophecies were recorded hundreds of years before Jesus was born, proving they weren’t staged after the fact.

• Details impossible to control: Many prophecies (like His birthplace, manner of death, betrayal price) were beyond Jesus’s human control.

• Confirms divine plan: Shows God’s sovereignty in orchestrating history to point to the Messiah.

• Strengthens faith: Fulfilling so many specific predictions validates that Jesus is truly the promised Savior.

12 core reasons why you can trust that the Bible is God'sWord to us. Do you know these 12? Memorize these because you can use them toshare the gospel with unbelievers and doubters. Reason #5 of 12.

here are bullet points on why it’s amazing (and supports its truth) that the Bible was written on three different continents:

• Geographic diversity: Written in Asia, Africa, and Europe, yet maintaining one unified story about God’s redemption plan.

• Cross-cultural consistency: Despite spanning vastly different regions and cultures, the Bible’s core message never changes.

• Impossible human coordination: People separated by oceans and continents could not naturally produce such a cohesive, consistent book without divine inspiration.

12 core reasons why you can trust that the Bible is God'sWord to us. Do you know these 12? Memorize these because you can use them toshare the gospel with unbelievers and doubters. Reason #4 of 12.

here are bullet points on why it’s incredible (and supports its truth) that the Bible was written in three different languages:

• Cross-cultural reliability: Written in Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek, yet perfectly preserving a unified message across cultures and centuries.

• Accessible to diverse audiences: God’s Word was communicated in the major languages of its time, showing His desire to reach all people.

• Translation stability: Despite language shifts, the Bible’s core truths have remained intact, demonstrating God’s protection of His message.

12 core reasons why you can trust that the Bible is God'sWord to us. Do you know these 12? Memorize these because you can use them toshare the gospel with unbelievers and doubters. Reason #3 of 12.

the Bible was written over 1,500 years:

• Spans 15 centuries with consistency: Despite being written over 1,500 years, the Bible tells a cohesive story without contradicting its core message.

• Impossible to fake: No one generation could fabricate and maintain a book over such a long timeline without supernatural preservation.

• Consistent prophecy and fulfillment: Predictions made centuries earlier came true, proving a divine source behind its long-term accuracy.

• Survived cultural shifts: Over 1,500 years, societies and empires changed dramatically, but the Bible’s message stayed steady.

• Proves preservation by God: Its transmission through different times, languages, and authors shows God protecting His Word.

• Relevance across eras: The Bible speaks to people today just as powerfully as it did thousands of years ago, showing its timeless truth.