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 #2 of 12.

the Bible’s truth is supported by the fact that about 40 different people wrote it:

• Remarkable unity: Despite 40 different authors from vastly different walks of life, the Bible maintains a single, consistent message about God’s plan of salvation.

• No contradictions in core themes: Across centuries and cultures, these writers harmonized on key truths about God’s character, humanity’s sin, and redemption through Christ.

• Humanly impossible coordination: It would be impossible for 40 people over 1,500 years to coordinate such a unified story without divine guidance.

• Eyewitness testimony: Many authors personally witnessed the events they recorded, adding credibility.

• Prophetic consistency: Different authors prophesied things hundreds of years apart that came true later, showing a divine hand orchestrating it all.

• Historical accuracy: These varied writers recorded details verified by archaeology and secular history, reinforcing their reliability.

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 #1 of 12.

• Diverse perspectives: Written by around 40 authors from different backgrounds — kings, prophets, fishermen, scholars — yet it tells one unified story.

• Spanning centuries: Compiled over roughly 1,500 years, showing remarkable consistency across time and culture.

• Different literary styles: Includes poetry, history, law, prophecy, letters, and wisdom literature — all pointing to God’s message.

• Prophecies fulfilled: Earlier books predict things that are fulfilled in later ones, creating a cohesive, supernatural thread.

• A shared foundation: Jews and Christians have preserved and shared these writings over centuries, shaping law, art, and moral frameworks worldwide.

• A living book: Millions still read and find meaning in its pages today, despite its ancient origins.

In today’s episode of the Daily Verse by Verse Christian Podcast, we dive into Philemon 1:15-16, uncovering a powerful lesson on forgiveness, reconciliation, and God's love through this short yet impactful passage of God’s Word. In this 10-minute daily Bible study, Pastor Mike Massey walks us verse by verse through Paul's heartfelt appeal for Onesimus, a runaway slave turned believer, and draws rich spiritual parallels to our own journey of faith, sin, and redemption.

But before we unpack the scripture, Pastor Mike vulnerably shares a personal moment from the night before. After a long day, helping his 10-year-old daughter fix a stripped screw in a desk she was building became frustrating. The Holy Spirit convicted him mid-frustration—not to focus on finishing a task but to focus on relationship. That small domestic moment turned into a profound reflection on God’s love, grace, and the importance of forgiveness. He knelt, apologized, and told her how proud he was. That moment of humility and restoration perfectly aligns with the spiritual truth in today’s passage.

In Philemon 1:15, Paul says, “For perhaps he departed for a while for this purpose, that you might receive him forever.” Paul is writing about Onesimus, who once ran away and wronged Philemon, but now returns not just as a servant—but as a beloved brother in Christ. This is a deep picture of how Jesus loves us and how we were once separated from God by sin—but now, through the blood of Christ, we are reconciled and received forever into God’s family.

Mike explains how this reflects the Gospel: we too were runaways, separated by sin, but Jesus stood in the gap. Like Paul interceding for Onesimus, Jesus intercedes for us. The physical separation of Onesimus had divine purpose—just like our spiritual separation from God did. Jesus experienced the ultimate separation on the cross, when God the Father turned His back for those agonizing hours. That spiritual pain was greater than any physical suffering. Why? Because Jesus took on the sin of the world—your sin and mine—so we could be forgiven and restored.

Mike draws attention to how we were slaves to sin—chained and bound—but once we accept Jesus as Lord and Savior, we’re no longer slaves. We become brothers and sisters in Christ, part of one body—the Church. This episode reminds us that once you accept Christ, you are no longer condemned, no longer distant. You have direct access to God the Father through Jesus, our High Priest from the order of Melchizedek. The veil in the Holy of Holies was torn. The separation is gone. That’s the beauty of the New Covenant.

In Philemon 1:16, Paul writes that Onesimus is now “no longer as a slave, but more than a slave—a beloved brother.” Pastor Mike unpacks how this transformation mirrors our own. We’re no longer bound to sin but are elevated to children of God—free, forgiven, and loved. If you’re carrying bitterness or harboring unforgiveness—whether toward a spouse, friend, child, parent, or boss—this episode is your reminder to let it go. Not just for their benefit—but for your freedom.

This episode of the Daily Verse by Verse Christian Podcast is ideal for anyone wanting to grow in biblical literacy, Christian parenting, daily Bible study, and deeper understanding of Jesus’ forgiveness. Pastor Mike’s expository Bible teaching makes complex truths simple and applicable in under 10 minutes a day.

Whether you're doing a personal quiet time, a family devotion, or seeking encouragement during your commute, this podcast will help you study the Bible, experience God’s love, and walk out your faith one verse at a time. Don't forget to rate the podcast, hit follow, and share it with others who could use a Christian podcast that preaches God’s Word clearly and passionately.

👉 Subscribe now to experience more Christian sermons, more verse by verse Bible studies, and more reminders that Jesus loves you, and you are never too far from God’s grace.

Is forgiveness something we are forced to give—or is it a choice of the heart? In today’s Daily Verse By Verse episode, Pastor Mike Massey takes us through Philemon 1:12–14, where Paul sends Onesimus, a transformed believer, back to his former master Philemon. Through this powerful exchange, we unpack the essence of voluntary forgiveness—a response rooted not in compulsion, but in love and obedience to God's Word. Paul doesn’t demand reconciliation—he invites it. And so does God.

Explore how God’s forgiveness of your sins serves as the model for how you forgive others. Whether someone at work, in your family, or from your past has hurt you, today’s message reminds you that unforgiveness binds the heart, while forgiveness sets it free. You'll hear why God's love empowers us to forgive as we've been forgiven, and how doing so aligns us with His eternal purpose.

This mini-sermon is packed with daily Bible study, expository teaching, and applications for your Christian walk. Learn how forgiveness connects to the Great Commission, how voluntary love reflects God’s character, and how your life story is a Cinderella story of grace—one where Jesus already secured the victory.

Perfect for your daily devotionals, this Christian podcast will help you study the Bible, reflect on God’s love, and apply verse-by-verse Bible teaching to your everyday life.

Keywords: God's love, daily Bible study, God's Word, sermons, verse by verse, Christian podcast, Jesus loves me, study the Bible, Bible teaching
Tags: forgiveness, Philemon 1:12-14, Christian podcast, daily devotion, voluntary love, God's grace, study the Bible, Paul and Onesimus, reconciliation, Bible study podcast, God's Word, 10-minute sermon

Do you hold a grudge? Is there someone from your past orpresent you’ve struggled to forgive? In today’s episode on Philemon 1:5–12,Pastor Mike Massey dives deeper into Paul’s plea for grace and forgiveness ashe writes to Philemon about Onesimus—the runaway slave who has now become abrother in Christ. This verse-by-verse Bible study reveals the heart ofChristian love, humility, and how Jesus transforms us into new creations forHis kingdom.

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In this heartfelt episode, Pastor Mike Massey invites you toexamine your heart for lingering unforgiveness, while unpacking Paul’s loving,Spirit-filled appeal to Philemon. Paul hears of Philemon’s faith and love forJesus and the saints, and challenges all of us: Would anyone hear about yourfaith and love for Jesus? Is your walk with Christ contagious enough to be seenand talked about? Would there be enough evidence to convict you of being aChristian?

Mike explains the biblical definition of saints—notmiracle-working superhumans, but all believers in Christ. If you’re a followerof Jesus, you are a saint. Paul encourages Philemon, telling him that his loveand faith have refreshed the hearts of the saints. This encouragement remindsus that living boldly and lovingly in Christ has ripple effects that refreshand uplift others.

Rather than commanding Philemon to do what’s right, Paulmodels humility and appeals out of love. Mike reminds us this is a lesson forhow we should relate to others in the body of Christ—holding each otheraccountable not with condemnation, but with love, grace, and truth. Headdresses the false notion that confronting sin is judgmental. On the contrary,Scripture calls Christians to lovingly confront both believers andnon-believers, not to condemn but to point them to the saving grace of Jesus.

Paul also shares his spiritual resume—he’s aged,experienced, and a prisoner of Christ—and then appeals on behalf of Onesimus,whom he calls “my son.” Onesimus, once unprofitable, is now profitable for bothPaul and Philemon because he’s been transformed by Jesus Christ. Mike unpacksthis beautiful truth: through Jesus, people who once failed, hurt us, orwronged us can be redeemed and used by God for His glory.

If God has transformed Onesimus, a thief and runaway slave,into a man useful for the kingdom, imagine what He can do with you—or someoneyou’ve been holding bitterness against. The blood of Jesus makes all thingsnew.

This episode challenges listeners to lay down the burdens ofbitterness and grudge-holding, and to pick up the joy of reconciliation. Whenwe walk in God’s love, we become spiritually profitable—ready to serve, togive, and to refresh others. Let today be the day you forgive, love, and sharethe grace you’ve received through Christ.

Have an incredible and a blessed day, and join us next timeas we continue in Philemon 1:12.

Philemon 1:1-5 | Daily Verse by Verse | Forgiveness, Freedom & the Grace of God | 10 Minute Christian Podcast Bible Study

Discover God's love and grace in Philemon 1:1–5 as we explore forgiveness, faith, and Christian unity. Learn how Paul encourages reconciliation through Jesus Christ. This verse-by-verse Bible study reveals the power of God’s Word to heal broken relationships and transform hearts. A must-hear Christian podcast for anyone struggling to forgive or seeking peace. Join Pastor Mike Massey in this 10-minute daily Bible teaching.

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In this powerful 10-minute Christian podcast episode, Pastor Mike Massey walks us through Philemon 1:1–5, challenging listeners to reflect deeply on forgiveness and their personal relationship with Jesus Christ. He begins by addressing the burden and bondage of unforgiveness, encouraging us to ask: “Is there someone you need to forgive?” Whether it's someone from your past or present, Mike reminds us that forgiving others doesn't release them—it releases us.

Using the backdrop of Paul’s heartfelt letter to Philemon, Pastor Mike explains how Onesimus, a runaway slave who likely stole from his master, encounters Paul, is transformed by the gospel of Jesus Christ, and becomes a Christian. Paul then pleads with Philemon to forgive Onesimus and welcome him back—not as a slave—but as a brother in Christ. This radical call to reconciliation illustrates the beauty of God's love, and the power of grace in action.

Mike dives into how the Bible doesn't endorse slavery but rather undermines it through gospel principles. Scriptures like Genesis 1:27 and Galatians 3:28 proclaim the dignity and equality of all people in Christ. Through the book of Philemon, we see that love, humility, and reconciliation are central to Christian living.

As Paul identifies himself as “a prisoner of Christ Jesus,” Pastor Mike reflects on the heart of Christian service. True Christianity isn’t about obligation but transformation—it’s about wanting to serve God joyfully. He challenges listeners to examine their motivations: do you read the Bible, go to church, or pray out of guilt or love? If you lack the desire to follow Christ, it may indicate you haven’t experienced true spiritual rebirth.

He explains Paul’s salutation—“Grace to you and peace from God our Father”—noting that grace always comes before peace. You can’t experience the peace of God until you’ve accepted the grace of God through Jesus. This “peace that surpasses understanding” is not the absence of conflict, but the presence of God in our trials.

Pastor Mike continues by asking: “Who are you praying for?” Just as Paul prays for Philemon, we should intercede for others—not merely praying selfish prayers for success or comfort, but seeking to grow God’s kingdom.

He closes with the importance of expressing gratitude to God—through our time, resources, and service. The message of this episode is clear: God redeems broken people and uses them for His glory. Whether it’s Paul (once a persecutor of Christians), Philemon (a slave owner), or Onesimus (a runaway thief), God’s grace transforms lives.

Listeners are left with a final challenge: Is God calling you to forgive someone today? Let the blood of Jesus wash away the bitterness. Lay it at the cross and walk in freedom. Forgiveness reconciles us not just with people, but with God Himself.

What is the #1 thing that separates Christianity from every other religion?What is the one thing that separates Christianity from every other religion? One thing. Do you know it? You want to know it. You should know it. Watch this podcast to find out. We're going to let you know. We are picking up in Hebrews chapter 13 verse 21. Let's go. This is going to finish up the book of Hebrews. So we're going to start by reading chapter 20 and then we'll start interpreting with 21.Now may the God of peace who brought up our Lord Jesus from the dead, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make you complete in every good work to do his will, working in you what is well pleasing in his sight through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen. So he says, make you complete in every good work to do his will. You see, God equips us.One of the things to think about is lot of people say, I'm not equipped. I can't go out. I don't know the Bible well enough. I can't tell people. I can't answer their questions and therefore I'm not going to witness for God. But what we know is some of the greatest evangelists, some of the people who have just been so impactful for the kingdom of Christ have not been great theologians. They have been people who have been changed by Christ, accepted Jesus as their Lord and Savior, and they're so excited and they realize how importantimportant this is, how eternal this decision is, how much of an earthly impact with peace and joy it has on them, that they just go out and start telling people. And that is a huge witness. So if you're being held back or you're holding yourself back is really the issue from telling people about Jesus because you don't think you can answer their questions or you don't know enough about the Bible, you'll never know the Bible completely. You'll never know the Bible well enough to be able to answer every single question that someone can throw at you.And it is totally fine to be in a conversation with someone and just say, you know, I don't know the answer to that. Let me go pray about it, research it, and I'll get back to you. But what you're going to find is that God doesn't call the equipped. He equips the called. If He calls you to do something, whether it's telling your neighbor about Jesus, your colleague about Jesus, going to Third World for a week to do a short-term mission trip.going to the food bank and telling people about Jesus and handing him food, whatever it is, he's going to equip you. And it could be as simple as just saying Jesus loves you. Most people don't get into a big theological discussion. And those who do, oftentimes, don't really want to know about Jesus. They just want to win a debate and an argument. So be careful, right? And God even tells us that. Jesus tells us that in the Bible. He says to kick the dust off your feet.If you go somewhere and you're telling them about Jesus and they're just not listening, then just shake the dust off. Go to the next house, go to the next city, go to the next town, whatever it is. But God will make you complete in every good work to do His will. We are here to carry out His will. He gives us these incredible, godly desires. And then we have to use our free will to decide whether we're actually going to use those to advance God's kingdom.or whether we're going to continue down the path of just making this life all about us and not stopping to live for Jesus and not making him a priority or a purpose in our life, but just a sidecar, something in the backseat. You got this little motorcycle with the sidecar and you kind of put him in there and you're like, hey, Jesus, you're going to tag along with me wherever I go. Throw him in the trunk of your car and say, you're just going to go along with me. Instead, give him the wheel. Let him drive. And you say, I want to go with you.

Mike Massey (00:00)

Jesus is dead. Wait, what? All right. This is what the majority of the world believes. What do you believe? What do you think? Did he rise from the dead? Because if you don't believe he rose from the dead, then you don't believe he's God. Only God could come to earth in the form of a human and die and pay the price for our sins. He's the only one qualified.

There are so many people who say, yeah, he's dead. He was a good teacher, a good moral teacher, but he's gone. No, no, no. Right. Even the Muslims, you can look in the Surah and they believe that Jesus did not die, but went to heaven. We'll later come back and then die at that point in time. But Jesus is not dead. We're going to get into that in Hebrews chapter 13, verse 20. And just a second talking about God, father raising him from the dead. But right now we're going to start with chapter 13 verse

18 let's go pray for us for we are confident that we have a good conscience and all things desiring to live honorably. Pray for us. Do you understand how powerful prayer is? It is so wonderful when someone says to me and to you, I will pray for you. Let me pray for you right now. Let's not underestimate or undermine prayer. is powerful means of communication. It's a powerful form of bonding to people that we're not even with at that moment.

Because when you pray for someone, you have a heart for them. So don't forget to pray, pray for people and pray for them right there on the spot. Don't just say you're in my thoughts and prayers, right? No, no, no. And don't just say, I'll pray for you. Say, I'll pray for you. You know what? Let me pray for you right here, right now in the middle of this mall, in the middle of the store, in the middle of the street, in the middle of the office, wherever it is, do it right then, right there. It's one of the most powerful things you'll ever do in your life. promise. How do I know this? Because I learned it.

and I continue to do it and I love doing it. It's one of the most powerful parts of every day that I have. It says, pray for us for we are confident that we have a good conscience and all things desiring to live honorably. We should live honorably. We should want people to look at our lives, our deeds and our words and see Jesus. We are the hands and feet of Jesus. And if we do that, then we can live with a good conscience knowing that God's going to

Help us. He is going to forgive us. In fact, he already forgave us. This is one of the big points. So many people think when I die, uh-oh, Jesus is going to shake his face. He's going to point his finger at me and say, look what you did. You hypocrite. No, that's not how it works. The moment you accepted Jesus as your Lord and savior, right then you were forgiven past, present, future sense. His arms are spread wide on the cross, East and West. And he is essentially saying,

I forgive you as far as the East is from the West. He holds nothing against those who have accepted him as their Lord and your Lord and savior. And verse 19, we're told, but I especially urge you to do this, that I may be restored to you the sooner this restoration, we should continually be seeking to love other people in the name of Jesus, to be in community with those around us.

to love on non-believers as well because they're watching us. We may be the only Bible that they read. We want our actions, our attitudes, our deeds, our words to reflect Jesus, not for our salvation, because you were justified the moment you accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior. But the rest of your life, you get to live with that peace and that joy, knowing that the devil and his demons are gonna try to knock you down all the time and get you off your rocker. Happened to me yesterday, very tough day. The earlier start today.

Walk the walk AND talk the talk so that others can learn about Jesus through your deeds and words.

What walls are entrapping you today? Keeping you away from Jesus, freedom and joy?