In Acts 13, the Holy Spirit speaks, and the Church is launched into its mission. In this episode, Dr. Mark Rutland unpacks how Acts 13 reveals a responsive, missional, and intentional Church, led by the voice of God. But does God still speak and move like that today? Dr. Rutland shares his own powerful testimony of hearing from God in 1981 and following His call, even when the path seemed impossible. The Holy Spirit is still speaking—are we listening?

Dr. Mark Rutland takes us to Acts 9 and 10, where Peter’s encounter in Joppa becomes a turning point for the gospel. A Roman centurion, a vision of unclean food becoming clean, and a divine command—God was stretching Peter beyond his understanding of the law. Was God telling him to break it? No, He was revealing a greater plan. As Peter wrestled with tradition, the answer came knocking—literally. Joppa wasn’t just a historical moment; it was the gateway to the Gentile world, shaping the future of the Church. Just as Jonah resisted Nineveh, Peter hesitated—but obedience in Joppa changed history. The Holy Spirit is always expanding our faith, challenging our expectations, and leading us into the unknown. Are you ready to follow?

Dr. Mark Rutland takes us to Acts 2, where Simon Peter boldly proclaims, “This is that”—connecting the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost to Joel’s ancient prophecy. What happened in that Upper Room wasn’t just a historical event; it was the future breaking into the present. The early believers couldn’t fulfill their mission without the power of the Holy Spirit, and neither can we. In this episode, Dr. Rutland unpacks the deeper meaning of Pentecost, its connection to prophecy, and why the Holy Spirit remains essential for the Church today.

In this episode of The Leader's Notebook, Dr. Mark Rutland reads from Matthew 13:18-48. Jesus describes the Kingdom of Heaven through parables, like a multifaceted jewel, each parable revealing another glimpse of its splendor. The Kingdom is ruled by God, but in its outward form, it remains a mixture until Christ’s return—imperfect in us, yet divinely orchestrated. And just as a man gives everything for a great treasure, so Jesus gave everything for you. God, the King, is calling you to His table of grace. Will you see yourself as He sees you—worth everything?

In this powerful episode, Dr. Mark Rutland explores the story of four leprous men at the gate of Samaria during an Aramean siege, with the city trapped in famine and desperation (2 Kings 7:3). These outcasts unknowingly stumble upon abundance where they expected death, and their next decision holds a powerful lesson for us today. Don’t miss this thought-provoking message!

In the Book of Judges, God used unexpected, inanimate objects—an ox goad, a tent peg, a pitcher, a torch, a trumpet, a millstone, and a jawbone—to bring victory to His people. These objects had no power of their own, yet in the hands of a higher power, they played a crucial role in God’s divine plan. In this episode, Dr. Mark Rutland explores how these unconventional instruments teach us about availability, surrender, and the supernatural power of God. Like Paul in Corinth, we must determine to know nothing but Jesus Christ and Him crucified—saying “yes” to be used as His instrument, for His purpose, no matter how ordinary we may seem.

In this powerful message from 2 Kings 4, Dr. Mark Rutland explores a mother’s unwavering faith in the face of tragedy. Her story challenges us to reflect on our own faith—do we have a heart for the lost and dying? Through personal testimony and biblical insight, Dr. Rutland calls us to embrace God’s mission and allow Him to work through us in our communities.

In this special two-part series, Dr. Mark Rutland speaks to pastors and guests at the Appalachian Ministry Network Conference 2024, held at Life Church Roanoke, Virginia. He explores the divine nature of communication, reflecting on all that Jesus began to do and teach until the day He was taken up. Examining the role of the Holy Spirit and the gifts bestowed upon the apostles, Dr. Rutland offers personal insights into the blessing and danger of power—how, when misused, it can lead people astray, even to the point of committing harm in the name of Jesus. This episode is a compelling call to steward power with wisdom and humility in the service of the gospel.

In this special two-part series, Dr. Mark Rutland speaks to pastors and guests at the Appalachian Ministry Network Conference 2024, held at Life Church Roanoke, Virginia. Drawing from the writings of Paul and his own journey, Dr. Rutland explores the call to preach the gospel, emphasizing the importance of delivering the right message, to the right people, in the right way, at the right time. Through personal stories of early hardships on the road, he encourages and equips pastors to boldly proclaim the Word of God.

In this episode of The Leader's Notebook, Dr. Mark Rutland unpacks the spiritual lessons from Joshua leading the Israelites across the Jordan River. Learn how sanctification, faith, and obedience became their keys to conquest—and how these principles can help you overcome obstacles and experience God’s purpose in your life.