What does the Bible mean when it talks about "the world"?

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Does the Bible talk about being "in the world but not of the world"?

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"Why persecutest thou me?" In Acts 9:4, Saul of Tarsus—a fierce persecutor of early Christians—is stopped in his tracks by a blinding light and a voice from heaven. The voice, belonging to Jesus, asks a piercing question: "Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?"

This moment marks one of the most dramatic conversions in biblical history, transforming Saul into Paul the Apostle, who would spread the Gospel across the Roman world. But beyond its historical impact, the question Jesus asked carries deep theological and spiritual significance.

First, the question reveals the intimate identification Jesus has with his followers. Saul had been imprisoning and harming Christians, yet Jesus does not say, "Why are you persecuting my people?" He says, "Why are you persecuting me?" This declaration affirms that the church is not merely a group of believers; it is the Body of Christ. To attack Christians is to attack Jesus Himself. This truth is echoed in 1 Corinthians 12:27, where Paul later writes, "Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it." In Acts 9:4, Jesus establishes a profound unity between Himself and His people—one that exceeds physical presence and affirms spiritual oneness.

Second, the question is a divine confrontation wrapped in mercy. Saul was convinced he was defending God's truth by suppressing what he saw as a dangerous group who opposed God. Yet, Jesus does not respond with condemnation or wrath. Instead, He asks a question, inviting Saul to reflect, to reconsider, and to ultimately repent. This approach highlights the grace of God, who confronts sin not to destroy the sinner, but to redeem us. Saul's blindness in that moment was symbolic: though physically impaired, his spiritual eyes were about to be opened.

Third, the question initiates a radical transformation in Saul's identity and mission. Up until this point, Saul's life had been defined by religious zeal and rigid legalism, but the question Jesus asked dismantled his entire worldview. Saul realizes he has been fighting against the very God he claimed to serve. This revelation leads to a complete reorientation of his life. He becomes Paul, the Apostle to the Gentiles, whose writings—filled with themes of grace, unity, and spiritual maturity—make up much of the New Testament. The question, "Why persecutest thou me?" becomes the catalyst for a life of service, suffering, and proclamation of the Gospel.

Finally, this question speaks to every believer today. It challenges us to examine our own hearts. Are we resisting God's work in subtle ways? Are we clinging to traditions or judgments that oppose the heart of Jesus? This same question reminds us today that our actions toward others, especially toward brothers and sisters in Christ, are actions toward Jesus. It's a call to humility, reflection, and alignment with divine purpose.

It is a personal invitation. Jesus identifies with His church, confronts sin with grace, and transforms life through truth. His question to Saul continues to echo through time, calling each of us to a deeper awareness of our own relationship with God.

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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/

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Worshiping God when you don't feel like it. Worship is often connected in the human mind with joy, peace, or spiritual enthusiasm. Yet, Scripture teaches that worship is not grounded in emotion, but in truth and obedience. Throughout the Bible, God's people are shown worshiping Him not only in moments of joy, but also in seasons of sorrow, confusion, and weariness. These passages reveal that worship offered without strong feeling is not inferior; rather, it is often the most genuine expression of faith.

First, Scripture makes clear that worship is an act of obedience, not a response to emotional readiness. David declares, "I will bless the Lord at all times. His praise shall continually be in my mouth." The phrase, "at all times," includes moments of distress as well as delight. Job provides one of the clearest examples of this truth. After losing his children, his possessions, and security, "Job arose and rent his mantle and shaved his head and fell down upon the ground and worshiped" (Job 1:20). His worship did not flow from happiness, but from reverence and submission to God's sovereignty.

Second, the Bible shows that honest worship is acceptable and even welcomed by God. The Psalms repeatedly express sorrow, doubt, and anguish, yet they are preserved as inspired worship. David cries out, "Why art thou cast down, O my soul, and why art thou disquieted within me?" (Psalm 42:5). Rather than hiding his despair, he brings it before God. This teaches that worship does not require pretending to feel joy; it requires turning honestly toward God. As Psalm 62:8 instructs, "Pour out your heart before him. God is a refuge for us."

When personal words fail, Scripture itself becomes the foundation for worship. Paul exhorts believers, "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord" (Colossians 3:16). Even when the heart feels empty, God's word remains full of truth. The Psalms often function as prayers given by God to his people, enabling them to worship when their own strength is insufficient. In these moments, worship becomes an act of faith rooted in God's word rather than personal emotion.

Scripture also teaches that worship is primarily a matter of the heart, not outward expression. While singing and praise are biblical, Paul emphasizes inward worship when he writes, "Singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord" (Ephesians 5:19). Worship can be silent, quiet, or inward, yet still sincere. God reminds Samuel, "The Lord looketh on the heart" (1 Samuel 16:7). A bowed heart, even without spoken words, is true worship in God's sight.

The Bible describes worship offered in difficult circumstances as a sacrifice. Hebrews 13:15 states, "By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually." A sacrifice implies cost. Praise offered when it is difficult, when faith feels weak, or circumstances are painful is costly and therefore precious to God. This principle is echoed in Psalm 50:23: "Whoso offereth praise glorifieth me." Praise that costs nothing glorifies little; praise offered in hardship glorifies God greatly.

Finally, Scripture shows that worship has the power to lead the heart rather than follow it. David speaks to his own soul, commanding it toward hope: "Hope thou in God, for I shall yet praise him" (Psalm 42:5). Rather than waiting for his emotions to change, he chooses worship in advance of feeling restored. This pattern teaches that obedience and worship often precede emotional renewal. As Isaiah 26:3 promises, "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee, because he trusteth in thee."

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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/

And here: https://pearlsofwisdomonline.org/

Is Judgment Day a negotiation? Some people imagine Judgment Day as a moment when those who are not saved will be able to plead their case before God, offering explanations, defenses, or good works in hopes of changing the outcome. One passage that is often cited in support of this idea is Matthew 7:21-23, where Jesus describes people saying, "Lord, Lord, have we not done many wonderful works in your name?"

At first glance, this exchange may appear to suggest negotiation. However, a careful reading of Scripture shows that the Bible does not portray Judgment Day as a debate or a bargaining process, but as the final and just declaration of God's verdict. Throughout the Bible, judgment is consistently presented as decisive and authoritative. Hebrews 9:27 states that it is appointed for people to die once, and after that comes judgment. Romans 14:12 adds that each person will give an account of himself to God. These passages emphasize accountability, not discussion.

Revelation 20:11-15 depicts the final judgment with books being opened and people judged according to what is written, with no indication of appeals or altered outcomes. God's judgment is shown to be complete, informed, and final. The passage in Matthew 7 does not contradict this understanding. When those who are rejected say, "Lord, Lord," they are not negotiating but defending themselves. They present a list of religious accomplishments—prophecy, spiritual authority, and mighty works—as evidence that they belong to Christ.

Yet, Jesus' response is immediate and conclusive. There is no back-and-forth conversation, no reconsideration, and no opportunity to persuade the judge. The verdict is declared, not debated. This moment reveals a deeper issue: false confidence. The individuals Jesus describes trusted in their works rather than in a genuine relationship with Him. Their actions were performed in His name, but not in submission to His will.

Jesus emphasizes that entrance into the kingdom belongs to those who "do the will of my Father," not merely those who perform religious acts. His statement, "I never knew you," is especially significant. It indicates that these individuals were never in a true relationship with Him despite their outward appearance of faithfulness.

Importantly, Scripture shows that the time for repentance, intercession, and response is before judgment, not during it. Throughout the Bible, God patiently calls people to turn to Him while there is still time. 2 Corinthians 6:2 declares, "Now is the day of salvation." Judgment Day, then, is not when decisions are made, but when decisions already made are revealed and confirmed.

In conclusion, the Bible does not describe Judgment Day as a negotiation between God and the unsaved. Even passages that include human speech, such as Matthew 7, serve to expose self-deception and demonstrate the justice of God's verdict. Judgment Day is the moment when truth is fully revealed, God's righteousness is upheld, and the consequences of one's response to Him are finally and openly affirmed.

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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/

And here: https://pearlsofwisdomonline.org/

In this episode of This Is Your Life, host Bobbie Agee sits down with two individuals whose lives prove that no distance is too far for God’s reach—whether that distance is the depth of a drug addiction or the miles across the ocean to China.

First, Kyle Estes opens up about a 16-year downward spiral into heavy drug use that cost him his money, his family, and nearly his freedom. He shares the chilling reality of addiction and the "Teen Challenge" program that helped him transition from dead religion into a living relationship with Jesus Christ.

Then, Carol Long discusses her mid-life pivot from a quiet life in Florida to a five-year mission in China. From teaching English to PhD students to witnessing the silent, powerful growth of the Chinese house church, Carol’s story is a testament to God’s provision and the global hunger for the Gospel.

Main Highlights Include:

-- The turning point: How Kyle went from a Pentecostal upbringing to losing custody of his daughter and living in his car.

-- The difference between "faking it" through religious motions and experiencing a genuine spiritual hunger.

-- Overcoming the fear of failure as a parent through the grace of God.

-- How Carol and her husband sold their "pool home" in their 50s to follow a sudden calling to the mission field.

-- The unique challenges and joys of sharing Christ in a country where open preaching is prohibited.

-- Heartwarming stories of Chinese elders weeping while watching the Jesus film for the first time.

Scriptures for Further Study

-- Matthew 19:26

-- James 4:8-10

-- Matthew 28:19-20

Television program initially aired January 21, 2019.

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What role should emotions play in the life of the Christian? While some criticize others for appearing to have little feeling for the things of God, others are on guard against emotionalism. Both are valid concerns. In this broadcast of Let the Bible Speak, we consider the powerful role of emotions in our love for God as well as the danger of being led by them. The problem is not possessing emotions but, rather, allowing emotions to possess us.

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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/

And here: https://pearlsofwisdomonline.org/

Reclaiming the Mission: A State of the Kingdom Report

In this episode, Pastor Jack King provides a sobering yet hopeful "State of the Kingdom" address. Reflecting on his 47 years of ministry in Tallahassee, Pastor Jack compares the current cultural climate to the days of Samuel, where the lamp of God had grown dim. From the decline of Pentecostal institutions to the "burnout" culture of modern ministry, this message is a clarion call for the Church to adapt to a "Babylonian" culture without losing its biblical soul.

-- Pastor Jack reflects on the recent State of the Union and how leadership requires intentional communication rather than just "fire and brimstone."

-- The decline of the American church is documented by groups like Barna and Exponential, showing a significant disconnect with younger generations.

-- The "COVID effect" has left many churches reeling, as regular attendees dropped out and have yet to return to active fellowship.

-- A look at the history of the Open Bible Churches and the alarming rate at which Bible colleges and training centers are closing.

-- The danger of "Transfer Growth," where churches grow by taking members from other congregations rather than reaching the unchurched.

-- The necessity of moving away from the 1960s-90s "church mold" to effectively reach a culture chained to digital devices.

-- A plea for the congregation to share the load, noting that placing the entire burden of ministry on the pastor and their spouse leads to unsustainable burnout.

Scriptures for Further Study

-- Matthew 16:18

-- 1 Samuel 3:1-3

This is episode 1265.

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This is the radio program with the music removed.

By the way, I have written a new book, and you can find it here:

https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Visions-Stories-Faith-Pastor/dp/161493536X

"I'm sure I didn't drink coffee until I started working at the grocery store... the coffee would have been free in the break room. And so since it was free, I drank coffee."

— Don Apple

In this heartwarming and nostalgic interview, Doug Apple sits down with his father, Don, on the occasion of his 85th birthday to discuss a surprisingly deep topic: coffee. Through the lens of this daily ritual, Don shares memories of growing up in a house where coffee was a rare luxury, his early days working at the A&P grocery store, and the evolution of American coffee culture. From the sound of industrial grinders at the checkout lane to hearing the news of President Kennedy’s assassination during a coffee break, this conversation proves that the simplest habits often hold our most profound memories.

-- 1950s Economics: Remembering when a cup of coffee cost between five and ten cents at local diners like Don's mother's restaurant: Pearl’s Cafe.

-- The A&P Years: A look back at the three iconic coffee brands—Red Circle, Eight O'Clock, and Bocar—and the ritual of grinding whole beans at the checkout counter.

-- The "Free" Motivation: How a frugal young man started a lifelong habit simply because the coffee in the grocery store break room was free.

-- Historical Markers: The chilling memory of taking a coffee break at a Walgreens in Decatur and hearing the announcement of JFK’s assassination over the outdoor speakers.

-- Modern Splurges: A grandfather’s perspective on the "frou-frou" coffee culture of today and the simple joy of sharing a (too strong) Starbucks with his granddaughters.

-- Advice to a Younger Self: Reflections on health, consumption, and being mindful of what we put into our bodies as the years go by.

Moving from Baby Christian to Kingdom Steward

In this powerful episode of Enter the Glory Zone, Dr. Edith Davis issues a wake-up call to the Body of Christ. We are not defined by our ethnicity or our denominations, but by our position as the one true Bride of Christ. Dr. Davis explains that while we are all valuable to God, our usefulness to the Kingdom is directly tied to our maturity and our skill in the Word. If you have been feeling defeated by physical symptoms, emotional turmoil, or spiritual attacks, this message provides the technical "how-to" for standing your ground and enforcing the victory Jesus already won.

-- Dr. Davis breaks down the "Beautification Process" of the Church and what it means to be a bride without spot, wrinkle, or blemish.

-- Discover the definition of a "Sound Mind" as a cool, calm, and collected mind that refuses to be governed by volatile emotions.

-- Hear the testimony of a man sent all the way to the Philippines because there wasn't a single mature Christian available to answer the enemy.

-- Learn the vital revelation of 1 John 4:17: understanding that as Jesus is in heaven right now—glorified and free from pain—so are you in this earthly realm.

-- A deep dive into the 30 years of preparation Jesus underwent for three and a half years of ministry, and how he used "It is written" to defeat Satanic temptation.

-- A powerful closing prayer and decree specifically targeting the protection of "soft targets" on planet earth and the binding of demonic forces.

Scriptures for Further Study

-- 2 Timothy 1:7

-- Hosea 4:6

-- Romans 10:9

-- 1 John 4:17

This is episode 395.

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