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Episode Notes

Title: What Should the Church Look Like?

Scripture Reference: Acts 20:1-16

Summary:

In this episode, we explore the biblical model for the church as depicted in Acts 20:1-16. We examine the key aspects that define a church community and how these principles can be applied to modern congregations. Through Paul's journey and interactions, we see the importance of encouragement, teaching, practical support, and communal fellowship. This passage provides a beautiful picture of what the church should be—a place where believers care for each other deeply, offer genuine support, and participate actively in each other's lives.

Key Points:

1. Family-Like Connection:
2. Encouragement and Teaching:
3. Practical Support:
4. Communal Fellowship:
5. Spiritual Maturity:

Discussion Questions:

1. How can we foster a family-like atmosphere in our own church communities?
2. What are some practical ways we can offer encouragement and support to fellow believers?
3. How can we incorporate communal fellowship into our regular church activities?
4. In what ways can we help each other grow spiritually and mature in our faith?

Action Steps:

1. Build Relationships:
2. Offer Support:
3. Participate in Fellowship:
4. Seek Spiritual Growth:

Closing Thoughts:

Let's strive to create an atmosphere in our churches where everyone feels genuinely loved, supported, and encouraged. By following the biblical principles outlined in Acts 20, we can build strong, vibrant communities that reflect God's love and grace.

Thank you for joining us in this episode. Stay tuned for more insights and discussions on how we can live out our faith in practical ways. Until next time, God bless!

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Welcome:
Today, we're diving into Acts 19:21-41 with a focus on understanding the various motivations that drive us. Our episode is titled "What Should Motivate Us." We'll explore the story of Paul and the different characters in Ephesus, reflecting on what truly motivates us in our daily lives. Stay tuned as we uncover insights that can help us align our motivations with our calling to serve Christ.

Show Notes for "What Should Motivate Us" (Acts 19:21-41)

Episode Summary: In this episode, we delve into Acts 19:21-41 to explore the motivations behind the actions of different individuals and groups in Ephesus. Paul’s journey and his ministry provide a stark contrast to the motivations of others, such as Demetrius the silversmith and the city officials. By examining their motives, we reflect on our own and seek to align them with our calling to serve Christ.

Key Points:

1. Paul’s Motivation:
2. Demetrius and the Silversmiths:
3. The Crowd’s Confusion and Mob Mentality:
4. Civic Leaders’ Self-Interest:

Reflection on Our Motivations:

1. The importance of regularly examining our motives to ensure they align with our mission to serve Christ.
2. Recognizing when our actions are driven by less noble reasons and striving for purity in our service.

Reflection Questions:

1. What motivates you in your daily life and service to others?
2. How can you align your motivations more closely with Christ’s example of sacrificial service?
3. In what ways can you guard against the influence of crowd mentality and ensure your actions are based on truth and understanding?

Application:

• Regularly reflect on your motivations and seek to purify them through prayer and self-examination.
• Strive to serve others with the same sacrificial love demonstrated by Jesus and Paul.
• Be mindful of the influences around you and remain grounded in your faith and understanding of God’s word.

Thank you for joining me today I hope it encourages you to examine your motivations and align them with your calling to serve Christ faithfully.

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Welcome :

Our scripture focus today is on Acts 19:8-20, where we'll explore the reality of sin in the life of a believer. We'll discuss whether a genuine Christian can continue to sin, including committing serious sins, and the biblical response to sin through confession and repentance.

Join me as we unpack this passage and discover the transformative power of genuine repentance and the importance of addressing sin in our lives.

Thank you for tuning in.

Episode Notes:

Key Points:

1. The Reality of Sin Among Believers:
2. Paul's Ministry in Ephesus:
3. The Incident with the Seven Sons of Sceva:
4. The Importance of Confession and Repentance:
5. Sin and Its Consequences:

Application:

• Recognize that believers can and do sin, but sin should be addressed seriously through confession and repentance.
• Reflect on areas of life where old habits or sins persist and take steps to confess and forsake them, trusting in God's grace for transformation.

Conclusion: Believers who sin are called to confess and forsake their sins, relying on God's mercy and grace. The example of the Ephesian believers in Acts 19 serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of genuine repentance and the importance of addressing sin in our lives.

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Welcome: Today, we're diving into a powerful passage from Acts 19:1-7 we we walk into a city bustling with activity, where the supernatural is not only believed but actively sought after. This city is Ephesus, 2000 years ago.

Ephesus was a place steeped in mysticism and magic, where people eagerly chased after every new teaching and miracle. Yet, amidst all the noise and excitement, there still remained a profound sense of emptiness among the ordinary people—a yearning for something more substantial, more real.

In this episode, we'll journey to Ephesus where the Apostle Paul encounters a group of disciples who, despite their devotion, are missing a crucial element of their faith: the Holy Spirit. We will uncover the significance of the Holy Spirit's role in our spiritual journey and the difference between merely knowing about God and truly experiencing His power.

Episode Notes: Paul and the Baptism of the Holy Spirit (Acts 19:1-7)

Theme: The transformative power of the Holy Spirit in a believer's life.

Key Points:

• The Incomplete Faith of the Disciples (Acts 19:1-3)
• Paul's Teaching and the Necessity of the Holy Spirit (Acts 19:4-5)
• The Transformative Power of the Holy Spirit (Acts 19:6-7)

Conclusion:

• Encouragement to seek the fullness of the Holy Spirit in our lives.
• Invitation to experience the transformative power of the Holy Spirit.
• Reminder of Jesus' promise of "rivers of living water" representing the Holy Spirit.

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Welcome

Welcome to today's episode where we look at the importance of biblical literacy within our churches. Today, we will explore Acts 18:18-28 and discuss how different people in various contexts require diverse forms of spiritual instruction. We'll look at the travels of Paul and the story of Apollos in Ephesus to understand how ongoing guidance and correction are vital for spiritual growth. Whether you're in the pews, on the streets, or standing in the pulpit, there's always room for deeper understanding and closer walk with the Lord.

Episode Notes: The Church's Need for Biblical Literacy

Scripture Reference: Acts 18:18-28

Key Points:

1. Introduction to Biblical Literacy:
   • Examples of common misconceptions about biblical knowledge.
   • Highlighting the need for basic biblical instruction within the church.
2. Paul's Travels and Instruction:
   • Paul's departure from Corinth and his travels to Ephesus, Jerusalem, and Antioch.
   • Emphasis on Paul's commitment to teaching and strengthening the disciples in various regions.
3. The Story of Apollos:
   • Introduction of Apollos, a learned man with a thorough knowledge of the Scriptures but limited understanding of the full gospel.
   • Priscilla and Aquila's role in guiding Apollos more accurately in the way of the Lord.
4. Importance of Ongoing Instruction:
   • Spiritual growth as an ongoing process requiring continuous learning and correction.
   • Paul's method of reasoning in synagogues and the importance of teaching even those familiar with the Scriptures.
5. Lessons from Church History:
   • Examples of religious figures who underwent significant spiritual transformations, such as Martin Luther and John Wesley.
   • The importance of understanding the true gospel beyond mere religious practices.
6. Application for Today:
   • Encouragement for believers to seek deeper understanding and maturity in their faith.
   • The role of love and humility in true spiritual maturity.
   • The need for discernment and personal engagement with Scripture, following the example of the Bereans.
7. Conclusion:
   • A call to embrace ongoing spiritual instruction and growth, just as Apollos did.
   • The importance of balancing knowledge with grace and living out the truths of Scripture in daily life.

Join me again next time as we continue to unpack these themes and reflect on how we can all grow in our biblical literacy and spiritual maturity.

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Welcome:

In this episode, we dive into the topic of discouragement and how to handle it, drawing inspiration from the Apostle Paul's experiences in Acts 18:1-17. We all face times of discouragement, and it's essential to find ways to cope and stay motivated.

Key Points:

1. Paul’s Arrival in Corinth:
   • After facing challenges in Athens, Paul arrives in Corinth, a city known for its immorality.
   • He meets Aquila and Priscilla, fellow tentmakers, who become his lifelong friends and supporters.
2. Opposition and Perseverance:
   • Paul faces significant opposition while preaching in Corinth.
   • Despite the opposition, he receives a vision from the Lord encouraging him to keep speaking and not be afraid.
3. The Importance of Companionship:
   • Silas and Timothy join Paul, providing much-needed support and encouragement.
   • Companionship plays a crucial role in overcoming discouragement.
4. God’s Reassurance:
   • The Lord assures Paul of His presence and protection, leading Paul to stay in Corinth for 18 months, teaching the word of God.
5. Facing Fear and Opposition:
   • Even when brought before the judgment seat, Paul remains unharmed, demonstrating God's faithfulness.

Lessons Learned:

• Do Not Withdraw: Seek companionship and support during times of discouragement.
• Do Not Quit: Persist in your efforts, even in the face of opposition.
• Do Not Fear: Trust in God's presence and protection, focusing on today and not worrying about the future.

Conclusion: Discouragement is a common experience, but by following Paul’s example—surrounding ourselves with supportive friends, persevering in our mission, and trusting in God’s guidance—we can overcome it. Remember, as Charles Spurgeon said, “By perseverance, the snail reached the ark.” Keep moving forward, no matter how slowly, and you will see progress.

Reflection Questions:

• How do you handle discouragement in your own life?
• Who are the supportive friends you can lean on during tough times?
• What steps can you take to trust God more in your daily challenges?

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Introduction:

I'm thrilled to have you join us as we dive again into the book of Acts, exploring the timeless lessons it offers for our lives today. In today's episode, we'll be looking at how Paul engaged with the intellectuals of Athens, a city full of idols and diverse philosophies.

Key Scripture: Acts 17:16-34

Episode Summary:

In this episode, we find Paul in Athens, deeply distressed by the city's idolatry. While waiting for his companions, Paul engages with the local Jewish community and everyday Athenians in the marketplace, eventually drawing the attention of Epicurean and Stoic philosophers. These philosophers, curious about Paul's teachings, bring him to the Areopagus (Mars Hill) to explain his "new ideas."

Here, Paul delivers a masterful speech, acknowledging their religiosity and using an altar to an unknown god as a starting point to introduce the true God. He proclaims that the true God is the Creator of all, not confined to temples made by human hands, and that He desires all people to seek and find Him. By quoting their own poets, Paul bridges the gap between their beliefs and the gospel message, making a compelling case for the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Main Points:

1. Cultural Context:
   • Athens as the intellectual and artistic center of the world.
   • The prevalence of idols and religious plurality in Athens.
2. Paul's Approach:
   • Reasoning in the synagogue and marketplace.
   • Engaging with Epicurean and Stoic philosophers.
   • Being called to the Areopagus (Mars Hill).
3. Paul's Speech:
   • Acknowledging their religiosity.
   • Introducing the true God as Creator.
   • Emphasizing the unity of humanity.
   • Quoting their own poets to connect with his audience.
4. Modern Application:
   • How to share the gospel with those who do not accept biblical presuppositions.
   • Finding common ground and using cultural references to bridge gaps.
   • The importance of understanding and respecting different worldviews while sharing the message of Christ.

Closing Thoughts:

Paul's method in Athens provides a powerful example for us today. Whether we're engaging with people who have different beliefs or seeking to share the gospel in a culturally relevant way, Paul's approach reminds us of the importance of respect, understanding, and finding common ground. Let's be inspired to speak the truth in love, just as Paul did, and trust that God will use our efforts to draw people to Himself.

Thank you for joining us for this episode of TBPDP. Stay tuned for more insights and practical applications from the Scriptures. God bless!

Additional Resources:

• Commentary on Acts 17 by William Barclay

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Welcome:
Today, we're diving into a crucial topic that each one of us faces: "What is Your Response to the Bible?" We'll explore Acts 17:1-15 and see how different people responded to Paul's preaching. These responses are as relevant today as they were then. Let's delve into the decisions people made and how those decisions can impact our lives and faith journey.

Episode Notes: 

Key Points:

1. Decisions and Responses:
   • Everyone makes a decision when they hear the message of the Bible. Some are persuaded, and some are not, but everyone decides.
   • Paul’s approach in Thessalonica involved reasoning, explaining, and proving from the Scriptures that Jesus is the Messiah.
   • The responses were mixed: some believed and joined Paul and Silas, while others opposed and caused trouble.
2. Thessalonica:
   • Paul reasoned with the Jews in the synagogue, explaining and proving the necessity of the Messiah's suffering and resurrection.
   • The reactions varied: some Jews and many Greeks believed, while others were envious and incited a mob.
3. Berea:
   • The Bereans were more open-minded, eagerly receiving the message and examining the Scriptures daily to verify Paul's teachings.
   • Many believed, including prominent Greek women and men, showing the importance of verifying teachings against the Scriptures.
4. Handling Opposition:
   • Those not persuaded in Thessalonica caused a riot, showing that rejection can sometimes lead to active opposition.
   • Despite opposition, Paul and his companions continued their mission, moving to new places to preach the gospel.
5. The Roman Road to Salvation:
   • Romans 3:23: "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God."
   • Romans 6:23: "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord."
   • Romans 5:8: "But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us."
   • Romans 10:9: "If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved."

Reflection Questions:

• What decision have you made regarding the message of the Bible?
• How can you ensure your beliefs align with Scripture?
• Are you open-minded like the Bereans, eager to verify and understand the truth?
• How can you share the message of Jesus with others?

Thank you for joining us today. I hope this episode challenges you to consider your response to the Bible and encourages you to share the good news with those around you. Remember, every decision matters, and your response can impact your life and eternity.

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Welcome:

We can get so caught up in the daily details of living that we begin to wonder sometimes if God is working at all. In today’s episode, we really see God working in some interesting ways that might just serve as a reminder to us of what God is doing and how He's doing it in all sorts of situations.

Introduction:

The story involves three different encounters they had with three different groups of people. First, there is Lydia, a seller of purple. Then, there is this interesting young slave girl who is demon-possessed and follows Paul around. Finally, there is the most famous story, one of those classic Bible stories—the Philippian jailer.

Episode Outline:

1. Lydia’s Conversion:
   • Scripture Reading: Acts 16:11-15
   • Paul, Silas, Timothy, and Luke travel from Troas to Philippi, a leading Roman colony.
   • They find a group of women praying by the river, including Lydia, a worshiper of God and a seller of purple cloth.
   • God opens Lydia’s heart to respond to Paul’s message. She and her household are baptized, and she offers her home to Paul and his companions.
2. The Slave Girl and Paul’s Annoyance:
   • Scripture Reading: Acts 16:16-24
   • A slave girl with a spirit of divination follows Paul and his companions, proclaiming their mission.
   • Paul, annoyed, commands the spirit to leave her, and she is delivered.
   • Her owners, angered by the loss of their income, drag Paul and Silas before the magistrates, who have them beaten and imprisoned.
3. The Philippian Jailer’s Conversion:
   • Scripture Reading: Acts 16:25-40
   • At midnight, Paul and Silas pray and sing hymns in prison, despite their suffering.
   • A violent earthquake opens the prison doors and loosens their chains.
   • The jailer, fearing the prisoners have escaped, prepares to kill himself. Paul reassures him that all prisoners are still there.
   • The jailer asks, "What must I do to be saved?" Paul responds, "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household."
   • The jailer and his household believe, are baptized, and rejoice in their newfound faith.
   • The magistrates order Paul and Silas to be released, but Paul insists they be escorted out publicly to acknowledge their wrongful treatment as Roman citizens.

Key Points:

• The conversion of Lydia highlights God’s work in opening hearts to the gospel and the resulting generosity that comes from faith.
• The deliverance of the slave girl shows God’s power over spiritual oppression and the liberation it brings.
• The dramatic events in the prison emphasize the importance of faith in Jesus Christ for salvation and the profound impact it has on entire households.

Conclusion:

In each of these encounters, we see God actively working through Paul and his companions to bring about His will. Whether it’s through opening hearts, delivering from demonic oppression, or dramatically saving a jailer and his household, God’s hand is evident. As we reflect on these stories, let’s be encouraged to look for God’s work

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Welcome

Today we’ll be examining Acts 16:1-10 to understand the decisions made by the Apostle Paul and how they can guide us in our own decision-making processes. Was Paul really inconsistent, or is there something deeper at play? Let's find out together.

Episode Notes:

Introduction

• Have you ever been accused of being inconsistent?
• Even the Apostle Paul faced accusations of inconsistency.
• The focus of today’s episode is on Paul’s decision regarding circumcision, an act some view as his big mistake.

Key Points

1. Paul's Decision to Circumcise Timothy
   • Timothy’s background: Jewish mother, Greek father.
   • Paul circumcised Timothy to avoid hindrances in ministry among Jews.
   • The decision was strategic, not a compromise of the gospel.
2. Practical Decision-Making
   • Importance of removing barriers to the gospel.
   • Sometimes practical decisions are necessary for the greater mission.
3. Guidance by the Holy Spirit
   • Paul and companions were directed by the Holy Spirit.
   • God's guidance can sometimes mean closed doors, leading to new opportunities.

Application to Our Lives

• Making Good Decisions
  • Combine practical wisdom with spiritual discernment.
  • Keep the mission of the gospel at the forefront.
• Spiritual Growth Pattern
  • Trust Christ.
  • Grow in Christ.
  • Serve Christ in that order.

Paul's Strategy

• Adapt customs to reach different groups without compromising faith.
• Example from 1 Corinthians 9:19-22: Becoming all things to all people to save some.

Importance of Teaching and Strengthening Churches

• Acts 16:4-5: Churches strengthened in faith and grew in numbers.

Following God’s Will

• Detours are not disasters but can be God’s way of directing us to greater opportunities.
• Trusting God’s plan even when it seems counterintuitive.

Conclusion

• Paul's decision-making was based on God’s will and wisdom.
• Seek God’s will through His Word and apply practical wisdom.
• Detours in life can lead to unexpected blessings and align with God’s greater plan.

Thank you for joining me today I this episode has provided valuable insights into making godly decisions and trusting in God’s perfect plan. Stay tuned for more episodes where we continue to explore the rich truths of the Bible and their application to our lives.

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