Wave 94

In this insightful interview, host Doug Apple welcomes Mike Sharman to explore external perspectives on the United States, comparing historical observations with contemporary analysis. The conversation begins by recalling Alexis de Tocqueville, the 19th-century Frenchman whose "Democracy in America" remarkably captured the essence of the nascent nation. De Tocqueville famously observed that America's greatness was tied to its goodness, noting its immersion in a biblical worldview and the self-reliant, armed citizenry that contributed to its early success.

Sharman then introduces the contemporary insights of Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks, an English Orthodox rabbi and member of the House of Lords, whose 2017 speech offered a similarly potent assessment of America. While de Tocqueville saw America's inherent goodness, Rabbi Sacks pointed to concerning trends that, even in 2017, were emerging: "the politics of anger," "competitive victimhood," "identity politics based on smaller and smaller identities," the "politics of grievance," the "silencing of free speech in our universities," and "public discourse polluted by fake news and the manipulation of social media." These observations, Sharman notes, have only intensified in recent years.

Despite these challenges, Rabbi Sacks, drawing from the "Hebrew Bible" (Old Testament), highlights what he calls America's "Judeo-Christian heritage" as the root of its democratic capitalism. The discussion takes a fascinating turn as Sharman elaborates on Sacks's analogy between the political history of biblical Israel and the United States. Sacks distinguishes between a "contract" and a "covenant." He points to biblical Israel's request for a king as a "social contract" – a willingness to surrender certain rights and freedoms (like property taxes and various other levies described) to a central power for the sake of internal rule of law and external defense, much like modern governmental structures.

Crucially, Rabbi Sacks argues that Israel's first founding document was not a contract but a covenant made with God at Mount Sinai. Unlike a contract, which is an exchange of interests, a covenant is "a bond of loyalty and trust to do together what neither could have done alone," focused on "us" and "identity" rather than individual interests. This, he states, is epitomized by the American ideal of "we the people." Sharman emphasizes Sacks's brilliant observation that the United States possesses this same dual founding: its social covenant in the Declaration of Independence (1776), which speaks of unalienable rights endowed by a Creator and the purpose of government to protect them, and its social contract in the Constitution (1787), which outlines how that government will operate. The interview concludes by underscoring the critical importance of remembering the Declaration of Independence as America's foundational covenant, a document that still legally and spiritually binds the nation.

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In "Heart Integrity - Part 2," Pastor Jack King delves into the intriguing account of Abraham and Abimelech found in Genesis chapter 20. Picking up from where Part 1 left off, Pastor King reminds listeners that Abraham, the "father of faith," made a significant mistake by presenting his wife, Sarah, as his sister – a "half-truth" that is, in essence, a lie. This deceptive act, born out of fear for his own life, led to serious complications when Abimelech, the local king, took Sarah into his household.

The message powerfully illustrates that lies have consequences, often causing emotional and physical hurt, and are rooted in the influence of the enemy. However, the core of this teaching centers on God's incredible mercy. Despite Abraham's disobedience and wandering from God's intended path, God intervened supernaturally, appearing to Abimelech in a dream and warning him of dire consequences if he did not return Sarah to her rightful husband. This encounter reveals Abimelech's surprising discernment and obedience to God's command, even as Abraham struggled with his own spiritual sensitivity.

Pastor King draws parallels between Abraham's struggle to feel God's presence in a "strange land" and the modern-day challenge of spiritual complacency, particularly for those who have distanced themselves from the church. He emphasizes that being out of God's will can dim spiritual visitations and silence the stirring of the Holy Spirit. Yet, he offers a message of hope and restoration, asserting that God always sees our potential and is faithful to restore those who repent, regardless of past failures. The podcast concludes with a powerful reminder that a successful walk with God requires keeping our "eye on the prize" – Christ Jesus, the Word of God, and the power of the Holy Spirit – and trusting in God's ever-present Spirit to guide us.

Scriptures for Further Study

Genesis 20: The primary text for this teaching, detailing Abraham's encounter with Abimelech.

John 8:44: "You are of your father the devil, and the desires of your father you want to do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own resources, for he is a liar and the father of it." (Referenced when discussing the author of lies)

John 3:16: "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." (Referenced at the conclusion of the message)

This is episode 088.

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"Life and death are in the power of the tongue. You are either speaking life over yourself or death over yourself."

--Dr. Edith Davis

In this tenth installment of "A Secret of How to Receive and Keep Your Divine Healing," Dr. Edith Davis of "Enter the Glory Zone" delves deeper into the practical application of spiritual truths for divine health and prosperity. Dr. Davis passionately declares God's desire for our holistic well-being—not just salvation, but also healing and wealth, citing the prosperity of our soul as the key. She highlights the profound truth that believers are new creations in Christ, endowed with His Spirit, faith, joy, and peace.

Drawing from her "micro spiral methodology," Dr. Davis recaps essential revelations: the power of the tongue to speak either life or death, with no "gray area." She instructs listeners to speak life over themselves according to God's Word and to speak death to the works of the enemy—sickness, disease, lack, and poverty. She cautions against allowing others' negative words to take root, urging listeners to "rebuke that in the name of Jesus." Dr. Davis also challenges the common misconception of begging God for healing, asserting that believers have been given authority and power over sickness. She contrasts "facts" of the physical world with the "truth" of the fourth dimension, where spiritual laws operate, emphasizing that born-again believers are sealed with the Holy Spirit and possess the same power that raised Christ from the dead. The episode also touches on the danger of the "spirit of mammon" versus God's blessed wealth, and the critical role of joy as a spiritual strength, enabling believers to overcome immense pain and challenges, just as Jesus did on the cross. Finally, Dr. Davis introduces the concept of spiritual laws, likening them to physical laws like gravity, and stresses the importance of operating in the "higher law" of faith, guarded by agape love and knowledge of God's Word, to pull divine realities into our physical experience. She concludes by briefly touching on the importance of guarding one's peace as a vital element in maintaining divine healing.

Scriptures for Further Study

3 John 1:2: "Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers."

Proverbs 18:21: "Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit."

Matthew 3:17: "And suddenly a voice came from heaven, saying, 'This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.'"

Romans 8:11: "But if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you."

Psalm 35:27 (implied): The principle of God desiring our prosperity.

Nehemiah 8:10: "...the joy of the LORD is your strength."

Galatians 5:22-23: "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law."

Colossians 1:13: "He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love,"

Hosea 4:6: "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge..."

Hebrews 11:6: "But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him."

This is episode 363.

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In this impactful episode titled "Sin," Allen Bailey tackles a fundamental concept in Christian faith: the nature and implications of sin. Drawing from Hebrews 4:15, Bailey contrasts Jesus' sinless life with humanity's frequent yielding to temptation. He argues that a significant barrier to spiritual growth and salvation for many is simply not recognizing their own sinful state, often stemming from a superficial understanding of biblical truth. Bailey recounts personal anecdotes of encountering individuals who were genuinely unaware that their actions were considered sinful by God. He then explores the Greek word for sin, harmartia, meaning "missing the mark," and illustrates how this concept applies to both active disobedience (sins of commission) and the failure to obey God's commands (sins of omission). Throughout the discussion, Bailey advocates for a compassionate yet direct approach when sharing biblical truth about sin, urging listeners to gently guide others toward understanding God's standards and the path to salvation. The episode serves as a powerful call to self-examination, encouraging believers to live lives free from the pollution of sin and to help others do the same.

Scriptures for Further Study

Hebrews 4:15: "For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin."

Matthew 25: (Illustrations of sin and judgment through parables of the foolish virgins, the talents, and the sheep and goats)

John 14:15: "If you love me, keep my commands."

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Hear more messages and find out more about Oyster Bay Church of Christ in Crawfordville, FL on our website: https://www.obcoc.org/

Join Allen Bailey in this insightful message, "Take Heed Unto Thyself," as he lays a foundational groundwork for spiritual motivation and growth. Delving into the Apostle Paul's earnest counsel to young Timothy in 1 Timothy 4:11-16, Bailey unpacks the profound call to personal spiritual diligence. He stresses the necessity of self-examination—looking into one's own "spiritual mirror"—before attempting to correct or judge others. The teaching highlights six key areas for Christians to exemplify: word (conversation), conduct (manner of life), love, spirit, faith, and purity. Bailey passionately argues that our personal spiritual health is not just for our own benefit, but also crucial for influencing and saving others. He uses practical examples, such as how our gracious attitude can open doors for the gospel, and how a forgiving spirit, as taught by Jesus in Luke 17, is vital for harmonious relationships within the church. The sermon also touches on the responsibility of church leaders, particularly elders, to "take heed" to themselves and the flock, underscoring that the principle of self-examination applies to all, regardless of role or tenure in faith. This message is a powerful reminder that by focusing on our own walk with God and striving for Christ-likeness, we become more effective instruments for His kingdom, ultimately saving ourselves and those who hear us.

Scriptures for Further Study

1 Timothy 4:11-16: The primary text for self-examination and growth.

Revelation 20:12: Reference to being judged by what is written in the books.

Matthew 12:36: Emphasis on the significance of our words.

1 Peter 4:16: Reference to loving the brotherhood.

1 Timothy 5:22: Specific instruction to Timothy to "keep yourself pure."

Luke 17:1-4: Jesus' teaching on offenses and forgiveness.

Acts 20:28: Paul's instruction to the Ephesian elders to take heed to themselves and the flock.

1 Corinthians 11:28: Instruction for self-examination before partaking in communion.

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Hear more messages and find out more about Oyster Bay Church of Christ in Crawfordville, FL on our website: https://www.obcoc.org/

In this compelling message titled "The Cross and the Crown," Robert Kornegay delves into the often-overlooked reality that suffering is an integral part of the Christian walk. Referencing the poignant opening of Psalm 22 ("My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?") and its prophetic parallels to Jesus' crucifixion, Kornegay reveals how both David's personal anguish and Jesus' ultimate sacrifice demonstrate that "before there is glory, there must be endurance. Before the crown, there is always a cross to bear."

The teaching beautifully contrasts Psalm 22, a psalm of profound suffering, with the beloved Psalm 23, which speaks of God's comforting provision and guidance. This juxtaposition underscores the biblical principle that joy often follows sorrow, and resurrection follows crucifixion. Kornegay emphasizes that while we do not physically experience crucifixion as Jesus did, believers are called to a spiritual identification with His death through baptism. This isn't merely a symbolic act, but a radical spiritual transformation where the "old self"—with its will, ambitions, and fleshly desires—is "crucified with Christ." Through this spiritual death, the power of sin is broken, and a new life, empowered by Christ, begins. This profound message offers encouragement and a renewed perspective on the purpose of hardship, reminding us that suffering is not the conclusion, but a turning point leading to eternal life and God's promised glory.

Scriptures for Further Study

2 Timothy 4:5-8: Paul's charge to Timothy and his reflections on fighting the good fight and anticipating the crown of righteousness.

Psalm 22: A prophetic psalm detailing the suffering and abandonment of the crucified Messiah.

Psalm 23: A psalm of comfort and assurance, illustrating God's care and guidance for His people.

Matthew 27:46: Jesus' cry from the cross, quoting Psalm 22:1.

John 19:23-24: The soldiers dividing Jesus' garments, fulfilling Psalm 22:18.

Luke 24:44-47: Jesus explains that His suffering and resurrection fulfilled prophecies in the Law, Prophets, and Psalms.

Acts 2:30-33: Peter's sermon explaining David's prophetic foresight of Jesus' resurrection and exaltation.

Galatians 2:20: The spiritual crucifixion of the believer with Christ and the new life lived by faith.

Romans 6:3-7: The spiritual reality of baptism as identification with Christ's death, burial, and resurrection, leading to freedom from sin.

1 Corinthians 5:17: The concept of becoming a "new creation" in Christ.

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Hear more messages and find out more about Oyster Bay Church of Christ in Crawfordville, FL on our website: https://www.obcoc.org/

In "Human Government - Part 1," host Robert Kornegay embarks on a foundational study of government from a biblical perspective. The discussion begins by clarifying key terms: "civil/human government" refers to man's rule, while "divine government" signifies God's established kingdom and authority.

The core of the teaching emphasizes that understanding God's will extends beyond explicit "thou shalt" or "thou shalt not" commands. Instead, God provides instruction through:

Direct Commands: Explicit directives from God.

Examples: Demonstrations of God's will through the actions of biblical figures or communities.

Necessary Inference/General Principle: Logical conclusions drawn from scripture and overarching biblical principles that reveal God's intent.

The sermon illustrates this point by explaining why Christians worship on Sunday, despite no direct command, by examining biblical examples (Acts 20:7) and necessary inferences (Revelation 1:10).

The message then traces the historical development of government, starting with creation:

God's Original Design: God gave humanity dominion over the earth, but retained authority over humanity itself (Genesis 1:26-28, Genesis 2).

Early Disobedience: Adam and Eve's rebellion in Eden marked humanity's refusal to be governed by God's direct command (Genesis 2:17, Genesis 3:24).

Continued Authority: Even after the Fall, God maintained His authority, as evidenced by Eve acknowledging God's role in Cain's birth (Genesis 4:1) and God's acceptance of Abel's offering over Cain's, implying a standard of righteousness beyond explicit law (Genesis 4:3-5).

Pre-Flood Society: Before the flood, formal human government was absent. Society likely operated under patriarchal leadership, but widespread violence and corruption ultimately led to the flood, demonstrating the breakdown of any rudimentary social order when God's authority was neglected (Genesis 6:11-13).

Post-Flood Delegation: After the flood, God delegated a portion of His authority to humanity, particularly for the protection of life and the punishment of wrongdoing, introducing the principle of capital punishment (Genesis 9:6). This foreshadows later concepts of human government's role in maintaining order.

The Rise of Nimrod: The narrative introduces Nimrod (Genesis 10), identified as the first man to establish a kingdom and organized political power. Josephus's historical accounts are cited, suggesting Nimrod's ambition was to challenge God's rule, leading to the construction of the Tower of Babel.

The Tower of Babel: This pivotal event (Genesis 11) symbolizes human rebellion, pride, and the desire for self-sufficiency apart from God. The confusion of languages and scattering of nations resulted from humanity's attempt to "make a name for ourselves" rather than follow God's command to scatter and fill the earth.

Nimrod's Government: Characterized by self-strength rather than divine authority, an authoritarian style, a focus on earthly kingdoms, and a legacy tied to rebellion against God. Its design was to "oppose, counteract, and displace the government of God."

The teaching underscores that the institution of human government, particularly as exemplified by Nimrod and Babel, originated in an act of rebellion against God's supreme authority, setting the stage for an ongoing tension between man's kingdom and God's kingdom.

Scriptures for Further Study

Romans 14

Acts 20:7

Revelation 1:10

Genesis 1:26-28

Genesis 2:17

Genesis 3:24

Genesis 4:1

Genesis 4:3-5

Genesis 6:11-13

Genesis 9:6

Genesis 10

Genesis 11:1-9

Romans 13:1

Revelation 17

Revelation 18

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Hear more messages and find out more about Oyster Bay Church of Christ in Crawfordville, FL on our website: https://www.obcoc.org/

In "Be Bold, Be Brave, Be Strong - Part 2," Pastor Joseph Davis continues to unpack what it means to live a life of audacious faith, drawing profound lessons from the story of the woman who anointed Jesus with costly spikenard oil. He challenges listeners to navigate their "now season" – a time filled with distractions and legitimate concerns – by focusing on what truly matters. Pastor Davis highlights a common pitfall: only seeking Jesus for His blessings and prosperity (His "hand"), while neglecting His holiness, image, and likeness (His "face"). He asserts that true transformation comes from embracing all of Jesus, not just the parts we find comfortable or advantageous.

The sermon powerfully illustrates the woman's boldness as she breaks her alabaster box, symbolizing the breaking of all perceived boundaries and protocols to release what is truly valuable within. This act, Pastor Davis explains, is about "getting what's in me out of me" and unleashing one's God-given anointing for purpose and destiny. He poses a crucial question for leaders and individuals alike: "Are you training people or are you taming people?" underscoring the need to cultivate a spirit that roars and fights for its destiny rather than being suppressed. The anointing, he stresses, is essential for navigating life's most challenging moments and for crucifying the flesh daily. The message also exposes the hypocrisy present even among religious figures, contrasting it with the woman's radical devotion. Pastor Davis passionately encourages transparency and honesty in our faith walk, urging listeners to admit hurt and acknowledge struggles rather than pretending everything is fine, as true healing and growth emerge from vulnerability.

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In this insightful "Focus on Prayer Roundtable - Part 2" podcast, the speakers delve deep into the essence of prayer, beginning with humanity's original state of spiritual alignment with God before sin entered the world. They explain that prayer became necessary after this fall, serving as a vital conduit for reconnecting with divine order. The conversation highlights a crucial theological point: God requires our permission to intervene in our lives due to the dominion He originally granted humanity. Therefore, prayer is an act of inviting God's power for deliverance, healing, victory, and the manifestation of His glory.

The discussion further explores the concept of intimacy in prayer, defining it as cultivating a close, personal relationship with God characterized by openness, trust, and vulnerability, moving beyond a "transactional" approach. Speakers emphasize that delighting in the Lord (Psalm 37:4) leads to us taking on His heart and praying His will, ultimately aligning with our purpose and destiny. The thirst for God, as described in Psalm 42:1-2, underscores the longing for this intimate connection. Practical advice is offered on how to cultivate this intimacy, including praying the Word of God, which helps us discern His voice, understand His will, and obey His instructions. The podcast concludes by underscoring the critical roles of humility and repentance in prayer, stressing that a true fear of the Lord fosters a conscience against sin and leads to a transformed life evident through our actions.

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In "The Father's Voice - Part 3," Pastor Omar Ellison delves deeper into the pervasive issue of a hardened heart, a topic he revisits seven years after his initial sermon on it, suggesting its enduring relevance for all believers. He defines a hardened heart as one that is callous, unable to perceive spiritual truths, and resistant to divine penetration. Drawing from Hebrews 3:7-12, Pastor Ellison illustrates how a hardened heart grieves God, leading to error in thinking and a departure from His ways. He passionately distinguishes between sins of ignorance (Numbers 15:27) and presumptuous, premeditated sins (Numbers 15:30). Sins of ignorance, though still incurring consequences, can be met with mercy, as seen in Paul's life or the ignorance of those who crucified Jesus. However, presumptuous sin, characterized by knowingly defying God's word, ignoring consequences, and taking one's future for granted, leads to severe spiritual cutting off. Pastor Ellison warns against the deceitfulness of sin and the subtle infiltration of a "have it your way" mentality within the church. He stresses that God's holiness demands obedience, and true relationship isn't merely about being "used" by God, but about genuine intimacy and humble surrender. The sermon powerfully connects a hardened heart with a lack of true trust in God, contrasting it with the blessedness of those who genuinely trust in the Lord, like a tree planted by water, constantly producing fruit regardless of circumstances (Jeremiah 17:5-8). He concludes by reiterating that God examines the heart and the motivations behind our actions, urging believers to honestly confess their failings and align their thinking with His truth to experience healing and continuous divine provision.

Scriptures for Further Study

Hebrews 3:7-12

Numbers 15:27

Numbers 15:30

Jeremiah 17:5-10

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