Episodit

  • In a world filled with uncertainty and misinformation, how do we stay grounded in our faith? This sermon explores the teachings of 2 Thessalonians 2, where the Apostle Paul addresses the confusion surrounding Christ's second coming. From doomsday predictions to the challenges of practicing discernment, we are reminded to "verify before believing" and hold firm to the truth of God's Word.

    We’ll dive into three essential lessons:

    Don't be gullible—verify before believing.Don't forget how the story ends—God is sovereign.Don't let go of your lifeline—cling to the truth of God's Word.

    Join us as we reflect on how to remain steadfast in faith, even when life doesn’t go as planned, knowing that Jesus is our ultimate lifeline and that our suffering is temporary, but our joy in Christ will be eternal.

  • In this powerful and inspiring sermon titled "Invincible: Facing Trials with Faith," the pastor introduces a new series based on the book of 2 Thessalonians. With compelling real-life examples, including the grueling training of Navy SEALs, the message highlights the reality of life's challenges and the importance of faith, perseverance, and love in the face of adversity. Drawing from the Apostle Paul's encouragement to the Thessalonian church, the pastor explores how trials can either make us better or bitter and reminds us that, ultimately, God will settle every score and fulfill the good works He calls us to do. Through stories of baptisms, spiritual warfare, and personal reflection, this sermon offers practical guidance on how to trust God amid difficulties, urging the congregation to seek God's direction, embrace His grace, and glorify Christ in all they do. Whether through growing in faith, responding to adversity, or stepping into God's calling, the message encourages listeners to live boldly and faithfully, trusting that God will empower them every step of the way.

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  • The video based on the attached transcript from FCC Talk appears to be a conversational podcast featuring two ministers, John Rhodes and Chris Gregg, from First Christian Church. The hosts discuss a variety of topics ranging from an archaeological discovery in Israel, the faith of the lead singer of the band Three Doors Down, and a surprising move by Chick-fil-A into the streaming entertainment business.

    The video opens with John and Chris introducing themselves and engaging in lighthearted conversation, setting the tone for an informal, yet thoughtful discussion on current events. Their first topic is a fascinating archaeological find in Israel, a 3,000-year-old stone seal from the time of Solomon’s Temple. The hosts reflect on how discoveries like these bolster the historical credibility of the Bible.

    https://www.crosswalk.com/headlines/contributors/michael-foust/israeli-excavation-reveals-3000-year-old-seal-with-name-from-1-chronicles.html

    The conversation then shifts to the faith journey of Brad Arnold, lead singer of Three Doors Down, who shared a message about Jesus during a concert. John and Chris appreciate Arnold’s boldness in professing his faith and use this as a springboard to talk about how Christians can express their faith in their own workplaces.

    https://www.crosswalk.com/headlines/contributors/michael-foust/3-doors-down-surprises-concert-fans-with-message-of-faith-saying-jesus-loves-you.html

    Finally, the podcast takes an unexpected turn when the hosts discuss Chick-fil-A’s entry into the streaming video business, exploring the potential of family-friendly content in today's media landscape. The hosts finish on a lighter note, talking about upcoming events at their church, including a church picnic featuring fried chicken.

    https://www.pymnts.com/streaming/2024/chick-fil-a-reportedly-seeks-piece-of-streaming-video-market/

    Throughout the video, the mood is casual and conversational, with John and Chris offering personal insights on each topic while maintaining a relaxed and friendly rapport.

  • Sermon Description: "Israel and Hamas: A Biblical Perspective"

    In this powerful and timely sermon, Chris Gregg dives deep into the spiritual and historical significance of the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. Drawing inspiration from the scriptures, he examines the 4,000-year-old roots of this struggle, tracing it back to the covenant God made with Abraham and the rivalry between his descendants—Isaac and Ishmael. Pastor [Name] highlights how this ancient conflict has evolved into the geopolitical tensions we witness today and emphasizes that behind the physical battles lies a deeper spiritual war.

    With references from Genesis, 1 Chronicles, and Ephesians, he unpacks the significance of land, lineage, and lordship, showing how the forces of good and evil continue to shape the events unfolding in the Middle East. He encourages listeners not to be overwhelmed by fear but to stand firm in faith, as Paul teaches in Ephesians 6. Ultimately, Chris Gregg reminds us that God is sovereign, and His promises remain unbreakable, urging believers to remain vigilant and prayerful as we navigate these uncertain times.

  • In this episode of FCC Talk, hosts Jon Rhoades, Children and Family Minister, and Dan Stribling, Worship Minister at First Christian Church, engage in thought-provoking discussions on pressing topics in the Christian world. The episode starts with a story about Ohio State football players, including high-profile athletes like TreVeyon Henderson and Emeka Egbuka, who organized a Christian baptism ceremony on campus. This leads to a conversation about faith in the face of college culture and the potential for revival on a secular campus.

    https://www.thelantern.com/2024/08/ohio-state-football-players-participate-in-christian-baptism-ceremony-outside-of-curl-market-over-800-gather-to-observe/

    Next, the conversation shifts to the troubling news from Gateway Church, where both the senior pastor and executive pastor were fired due to moral failures. Jon and Dan express their sadness over these incidents and delve into the challenges megachurches face, as well as the collateral damage that occurs when church leaders fail. They explore the broader question of whether megachurches help or harm their congregants and communities.

    https://www.crosswalk.com/headlines/contributors/milton-quintanilla/gateway-church-executive-pastor-kemtal-glasgow-fired-for-undisclosed-moral-issue.html#google_vignette

    https://www.christianpost.com/news/former-gateway-church-staffer-done-with-organized-religion.html

    The episode wraps up on a positive note with the inspiring story of The Altar Fellowship in Tennessee, where the church, led by Pastor Matty Montgomery, raised $50,000 to pay off nearly $8 million in medical debt for community members. Jon and Dan reflect on the radical generosity of this act and how it embodies the love of Christ in a tangible way, offering hope to those burdened by debt. The discussion highlights the importance of a church's reputation in the community and the impact of showing Christ's love through actions.

    https://www.christianpost.com/news/church-pays-off-nearly-8-million-of-communitys-medical-debt.html?clickType=link-most-popular

    Throughout the episode, Jon and Dan provide thoughtful insights from their own ministry experiences, offering listeners a balanced perspective on the good, the bad, and the hopeful in today’s church landscape.

  • Worship Uncoiled is our main worship service for students grades 6-12. Worship Uncoiled meets on Sunday nights from 6:00-8:00 and includes a full meal, a game, prizes, a time of worship, a short practical lesson and a time of small groups. We would love to have you join us. Feel free to contact our student minister, CJ Muston (CJMuston@FCCBrazil) with any questions.

  • Truth Tuesday: Embracing the Strange and Choosing the Right Bible Version

    In this episode of Truth Tuesday, host Jon Rhoades tackles the odd and sometimes confusing stories in the Bible that often leave us scratching our heads. From talking donkeys to bears attacking kids, these bizarre moments can feel alienating, but Jon reassures us that it’s okay to feel that way—and more importantly, we’re not alone.

    Jon digs into the deeper meaning behind these stories, offering a fresh perspective on how to embrace the weirdness in the Bible and let it lead us closer to God. Whether it's understanding the ancient context or seeing how these strange passages reflect God's nature, Jon encourages us to stay curious and not shy away from the hard-to-understand parts of Scripture.

    Later, Jon helps us navigate the world of Bible translations, offering tips on choosing the version that best fits our spiritual journey—whether you're looking for something modern, traditional, or deeply rooted in original languages. With Jon's guidance, you'll find the Bible version that resonates most with you and deepens your connection to God’s Word.

    Tune in for an insightful, encouraging conversation that will help you appreciate the Bible’s complexity and find joy in its mysterious moments.

  • The sermon in question focuses on the idea of spiritual indifference—a form of lukewarm faith that Jesus would seek to undo, as illustrated by the letter to the church of Laodicea in Revelation 3:15-16. Spiritual indifference, also referred to as being "lukewarm," is faith that is neither hot nor cold, which is metaphorically described as nauseating to God.

    The speaker emphasizes six specific ways that lukewarm faith manifests in our lives:

    1. We’re more concerned with impressing people than living for God.

    - People often focus more on how others perceive them rather than on living a life that pleases God. This is driven by self-centeredness, where one's actions are geared toward gaining approval rather than being aligned with God's will.

    2. We’re obsessed with life on earth rather than eternity.

    - Many prioritize material wealth, achievements, and worldly pleasures over the pursuit of eternal values. This creates a lifestyle driven by what can be gained in the here and now, rather than preparing for eternity with God.

    3. We rationalize sin and live without truly fearing God.

    - There’s a tendency to make excuses for sinful behaviors by downplaying their severity, comparing them to worse actions, or justifying them as personal choices that don't harm others. This lack of true fear of God results in compromised faith and moral laxity.

    4. We believe in Jesus, but we rarely share our faith.

    - Believers may have faith but often fail to share the gospel with others. The sermon highlights the importance of witnessing and how neglecting this responsibility is a form of indifference to God's calling.

    5. We only turn to God when we need Him.

    - Many approach God primarily in times of crisis, rather than seeking a continuous, deep relationship with Him. This results in a faith that is shallow and reactive rather than proactive and rooted in a genuine love for God.

    6. We’re not much different from the world.

    - Lukewarm Christians often blend in with secular culture. Their behaviors, priorities, and values mirror those of non-believers, making it difficult to distinguish them as followers of Christ.

    These points reflect the sermon’s key message: that Jesus would undo spiritual indifference, and believers should strive for a faith that is on fire for God—committed, purposeful, and deeply connected to Him in all aspects of life.

  • In this episode of FCC Talk, hosted by Jon Rhoades, Children and Family Minister, and Shaylee Stantz, WeeKidz Director, the conversation dives into some thought-provoking topics at the intersection of faith and culture. They start by discussing a surprise moment at a church service where Carrie Underwood led worship with a powerful rendition of "Goodness of God." Both hosts reflect on how this kind of celebrity involvement in worship impacts the congregation and whether it enhances or distracts from the spiritual experience.

    https://www.crosswalk.com/headlines/contributors/michael-foust/carrie-underwood-leads-church-worship-with-powerful-goodness-of-god-rendition.html

    The second topic shifts to Tim Tebow’s fight against human trafficking, highlighting his commitment to battling spiritual warfare in this dark and difficult mission. Jon and Shaylee react to Tebow's inspiring story and his efforts to bring hope and change to a deeply troubling issue.

    https://www.christianpost.com/news/tim-tebow-on-battling-spiritual-warfare-in-sex-trafficking-fight.html

    Finally, the conversation turns to the future of evangelism with the introduction of "AskCathy," a new AI-powered chatbot designed for church outreach. The hosts discuss whether they would personally use such a tool and explore the ethical and spiritual implications of AI in ministry. They raise important questions about the role of technology in faith and whether it can truly substitute for human connection in spreading the Gospel.

    https://premierchristian.news/us/news/article/ai-evangelism-church-launches-new-chatbot-askcathy

    Tune in for this engaging discussion on modern worship, social justice, and the evolving landscape of evangelism in the digital age.

  • Sermon Description:

    In this week’s message at Worship Uncoiled, we continue our "Made New" series with a focus on what happens after we are transformed by God's love. Building on the foundation that God has chosen us and made us valuable, we now ask, "What's next?" Through 2 Corinthians 5, we explore the ministry and message of reconciliation—how we are called to not only share God's love with others but also to be in right relationships with those around us. Drawing from personal experiences and the teachings of Jesus, this sermon challenges us to live out the reconciliation that Christ has given us by showing love, care, and concern, even to those who think, act, and believe differently. Join us as we learn practical ways to embody this call in our daily lives and discover how reconciliation can radically change our communities and culture.

    Worship Uncoiled is our main worship service for students grades 6-12. Worship Uncoiled meets on Sunday nights from 6:00-8:00 and includes a full meal, a game, prizes, a time of worship, a short practical lesson and a time of small groups. We would love to have you join us. Feel free to contact our student minister, CJ Muston (CJMuston@FCCBrazil) with any questions.

  • What Does It Mean to Say Yes to Jesus?

    There are a lot of ways you might hear people talk about saying yes to Jesus. You might hear phrases like “committing your life to Jesus,” “becoming a Christian,” “getting saved,” or “choosing to follow Jesus.”

    In my words, I say, “Follow Jesus.” Following Jesus in it’s most basic and simplest form is becoming like Him.

    Sometimes we can make following Jesus too difficult. We put a lot of rules and stipulations on following Jesus.

    When I was younger, I used to think my anger made it so I didn’t follow Jesus. If I got angry, I wasn’t following Jesus. So I told myself it wasn’t my anger that made me not follow Jesus. It was my reactions to my anger that made me not follow what Jesus said. That can be true! I believe we all have emotions, and emotions are not bad, it can often be more of our reactions to our emotions that control us. So I worked on anger management and trying not to react in such a way that was unacceptable. But I still was having problems. I wasn’t addressing the source. I wasn’t addressing the biggest issue. I wasn’t addressing my heart.

    The Bible is clear that our hearts are important. God values our hearts over physical appearance. He tells us to guard our hearts. Jesus told us our hearts are where our treasure is. Our hearts have a lot of value and it’s things like peace, hope, and love that keep our hearts ground. So, when I started focusing my heart, meaning my focus, desires, and discipline on Jesus, that’s when my anger didn’t control me as much. I made sure I focused on what is important and decided what is important to Jesus is important to me.

    So how do we do that? We need to go to the first book of the Bible, Genesis. It tells us that in the beginning, God made the world, humanity included. He gave us the job of enjoying and caring for what He made. But humanity made choices that hurt us, others, and the world. These choices—what the Bible calls sin—separated us from our perfect God and limited our ability to do the job He had given us.

    Centuries later, God’s Son entered the world as a baby named Jesus. Jesus lived around 33 years on Earth and spent that time showing us the best way to live—by loving God and loving others. Then He closed the separation between us and God, His Father, by dying on a cross and rising from the dead.

    Why would Jesus, fully God and fully man, have made this kind of sacrifice for us? Before His death, Jesus sat down with a person named Nicodemus late one night. Nicodemus had lots of questions about what it meant to follow Jesus. As part of His response to Nicodemus’ questions, Jesus shared some of His most famous words:

    “For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. God sent his Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through him.”

    John 3:16-17 NLT

    God’s love for us is so great that Jesus was willing to die for our sins so we could be a part of His family forever. That’s the kind of love that would make anyone want to say yes to His love, forgiveness, and new way of life.

  • Sermon Title: The Search for Significance

    Scripture: 1 Corinthians 9:24-27

    Main Idea: Understanding our significance in the eyes of God leads us to live a life of purpose, drive, direction, and discipline.

    Introduction:

    We all have an inherent desire to feel significant. In God's eyes, each of us is valuable, and our lives are meaningful within His grand plan. Jesus promises us an abundant life (John 10:10), but what does that really mean? Often, like Solomon in Ecclesiastes 2:17, we struggle with finding meaning in the pursuits of this world, feeling that our efforts are just "chasing after the wind." But the answer lies in understanding the true source of our significance.

    1. Drive: Running the Race with Purpose (1 Corinthians 9:24)

    - We are all called to run the race of life with a purpose, not just for any prize but for the one that God has set before us.

    - Paul encourages us to press on toward the goal (Philippians 3:14), throwing off everything that hinders us (Hebrews 12:1), and finishing the race with faith (2 Timothy 4:7).

    - True motivation leads us to step out of our comfort zones and prioritize what really matters.

    2. Direction: Living with Intention (1 Corinthians 9:26)

    - Running aimlessly leads to a life without fulfillment. Instead, we must have a clear plan and persistent focus on God’s kingdom (Matthew 6:33).

    - Consistency and perseverance are key in living a life that is pleasing to God (1 Corinthians 15:58).

    3. Discipline: Training for the Crown (1 Corinthians 9:25-27)

    - Discipline is essential in the Christian life, as Paul compares our spiritual journey to an athlete’s strict training regimen.

    - Living according to the Spirit and putting to death the misdeeds of the body are necessary to gain the victor’s crown (Romans 8:13; Colossians 3:1-5).

    - Ultimately, our identity is found not in who we are, but in whose we are.

    Conclusion:

    Our significance is not determined by our achievements or status, but by our relationship with God. As we strive for the prize set before us, let us remember that it is through our drive, direction, and discipline that we live out the abundant life promised by Jesus.

  • The podcast episode features John Rhodes, the Children and Family Minister, and C.J. Mustin, the Student Minister at First Christian Church, discussing various topics related to Christian life and church experiences. They highlight the importance of creating an inclusive and welcoming church environment, referencing data from the 2024 "State of the Bible USA" report. They discuss how cliques and feelings of exclusion are among the top negative experiences reported by churchgoers and offer suggestions on how to improve inclusivity. https://www.christianpost.com/news/cliques-top-reason-americans-not-more-involved-in-churches.html

    They also talk about the balance between making church a place that people like and ensuring that the focus remains on worshiping God. C.J. emphasizes the idea that church should be enjoyable and welcoming to encourage attendance, while John adds that a likable church environment aligns with honoring and worshiping God. https://www.christianpost.com/news/ihop-franchise-to-pay-employee-fired-for-not-working-sundays.html

    Additionally, the ministers cover a news story about a North Carolina IHOP worker fired for refusing to work on Sundays due to religious beliefs. This leads to a discussion on balancing work commitments with religious observance, and how Sunday mornings, once reserved for church, are now filled with other activities like work and sports. They reflect on whether society might ever return to prioritizing church on Sundays. https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/industry-news/publisher-news/article/95691-the-baby-bible-boom.html

    The episode blends thoughtful reflections on church culture, practical advice for congregational improvement, and commentary on how modern societal trends impact religious life.

  • Worship Uncoiled is our main worship service for students grades 6-12. Worship Uncoiled meets on Sunday nights from 6:00-8:00 and includes a full meal, a game, prizes, a time of worship, a short practical lesson and a time of small groups. We would love to have you join us. Feel free to contact our student minister, CJ Muston (CJMuston@FCCBrazil) with any questions.

  • In this episode of "Truth Tuesday," titled "Do I Really Need to Go to Church?" the host explores the evolving attitudes toward church attendance, particularly in the aftermath of the pandemic. Traditionally, church attendance has been viewed either as a legalistic obligation or as a meaningful practice. However, the pandemic caused a significant drop in attendance, which hasn't fully rebounded. Many people have shifted to watching services online, raising the question of whether physically attending church is still necessary.

    The podcast emphasizes that motivation plays a crucial role in the experience of church. Attending out of obligation can feel empty, while attending with the desire to grow closer to God is fulfilling. The Bible encourages Christians to gather regularly, as seen in passages like Hebrews 10:24-25 and Acts 2:42, which highlight the importance of community and mutual encouragement among believers.

    While the Church is not perfect, it's portrayed as vital for spiritual growth. The host challenges the idea that one doesn't need to attend church to be a Christian, suggesting that this perspective reflects immaturity. Instead of viewing church attendance as a mere obligation, it should be seen as an opportunity to engage in a community of faith. The episode concludes by shifting the focus from whether we need to attend church to why we might not prioritize it in our lives.

  • Podcast Title: That Thing You Do: Beyond You

    Description:

    In this episode, we dive deep into the heart of worship and explore its significance both personally and corporately within the body of Christ. Worship is more than just an individual act—it's a collective response to God, an expression of our unity as the Church, and a celebration of our journey with Him.

    We discuss how Christianity is not an individual sport but a family affair, where each of us plays a unique and necessary role. The Church is not just an organized religion but an organism—a living, breathing body of believers connected through Jesus Christ. Our primary purpose as the Church is to glorify God, and that begins with daily personal worship that overflows into our gatherings.

    We'll explore key scriptures like Psalm 34:3, Colossians 3:16, and 1 Peter 2:9, which remind us of the importance of coming to worship filled with an awareness of God's presence, ready to exalt His name together. Worship isn't something that starts when we walk into a church building; it begins in our hearts every day.

    Join us as we reflect on how our personal streams of worship can flow into one surging river, telling a greater story of who God is and what He has done. Let's consider how we can come worshiping to church, prepared to connect with God and inspire others to seek Him as never before.

    Key Topics:

    - The communal nature of worship

    - Our unique roles in the body of Christ

    - The Church as an organism, not just an organization

    - The importance of daily personal worship

    - Preparing our hearts for corporate worship

    Scripture References:

    - Psalm 34:3

    - Colossians 3:16

    - 1 Peter 2:9

    - Ephesians 1:12-14

    - Revelation 4:11

    Whether you've been a believer for years or are just beginning your faith journey, this episode will encourage you to deepen your worship and connect with God in a powerful, transformative way. Tune in and be inspired to glorify God with all your heart, mind, and soul.

  • In this episode of FCC Talk, we dive into three compelling topics that intertwine faith, personal integrity, and community impact.

    1. Randy Gradishar’s Gospel Moment at the Hall of Fame:

    Broncos legend Randy Gradishar took a bold step during his Pro Football Hall of Fame induction speech by sharing the Gospel. We discuss what it means for an athlete to prioritize preaching the Gospel over personal accolades and how this act of faith sets a powerful example for both Christians and athletes alike. https://www.crosswalk.com/headlines/contributors/milton-quintanilla/broncos-legend-randy-gradishar-shares-gospel-during-pro-football-hall-of-fame-induction-speech.html

    2. Pastor Josiah Anthony’s Controversy:

    Pastor Josiah Anthony has been involved in a scandal involving sexual messaging, leading to significant media scrutiny. We explore whether churches should maintain transparency about such issues and debate if pastors struggling with mental health should take a break from their duties to focus on recovery. https://www.christianpost.com/news/pastor-josiah-anthony-engaged-in-sexual-messaging-with-women.html

    3. The 'Jesus Revolution' Baptism Event:

    In a remarkable event, 2,000 individuals were baptized during a massive beach gathering in California. Laurie suggests this could signal a significant spiritual movement across the nation. We discuss whether large-scale baptism events are a sign of a broader divine movement and address common criticisms surrounding these public displays of faith. https://www.christianpost.com/news/2000-baptized-during-jesus-revolution-baptism-in-california.html

    Join us as we reflect on these topics and their implications for our faith and community.

  • Developing a deep, personal life of worship is crucial for a vibrant relationship with God. Without a personal and communal approach to worship, our connection with God can become stale. To foster this relationship, we must keep God in focus, continually discovering who He is.

    Psalm 27:8 and James 4:8a emphasize the importance of seeking God’s presence and drawing near to Him. Start by taking the initial step towards God, which involves a sincere desire to know Him. God has already reached out through Jesus Christ; our response is to express our desire to be close to Him.

    A practical way to start is through prayer, asking God to reveal Himself to you. Begin each day with a prayer like, "God, I want to know you," and make time for this personal connection with Him. Utilize tools such as the Bible, devotional books, or apps like YouVersion to guide your spiritual journey.

    The process of getting to know God is gradual, much like tasting a meal. Begin with small, intentional steps: read the Psalms, meditate on one attribute of God, and reflect on how His character has impacted you recently. Keep a journal to track your reflections and growth.

    As you engage with God’s Word and prayer, focus on the quality of your spiritual time rather than the quantity. Allow the attributes of God to resonate deeply, and carry these insights with you throughout the day.

    By making a daily appointment with God and incorporating regular prayer and reflection, you will find yourself growing closer to Him. Remember, the key is to stay committed to this personal journey, and you’ll see how your understanding and relationship with God will flourish.

  • Welcome back to FCC Talk! In today’s episode, we're diving into three hot topics that are sparking conversations across the globe:

    1. Is Gen Z Embracing the Bible? We explore a new report suggesting a surprising shift among Generation Z. Despite 34% of this generation identifying as religiously unaffiliated and a trend towards atheism and agnosticism, recent data hints at a growing interest in Biblical teachings. What’s driving this potential change? Join us as we analyze the factors influencing this shift and what it might mean for the future of faith. https://relevantmagazine.com/faith/church/is-gen-z-embracing-the-bible-new-report-suggests-so/

    2. Deadpool & Wolverine Faces Backlash: The upcoming 'Deadpool & Wolverine' movie is facing criticism for allegedly mocking Jesus. We dive into the controversy surrounding the film and discuss whether the accusations of blasphemy are justified. Even if you haven't seen the movie, we’ll look at how this fits into today’s cultural landscape and what it says about modern media's portrayal of religion. https://www.crosswalk.com/headlines/contributors/elizabeth-delaney/deadpool-and-wolverine-movie-faces-backlash-for-mocking-jesus.html

    3. Should Christians Boycott the Olympics? With the opening ceremonies of the Olympics stirring debate, we examine whether Christians should consider a boycott. We’ll review the initial reactions, the explanations coming to light, and the impact of such a boycott on the Games and the broader message it sends. https://www.movieguide.org/news-articles/should-christians-boycott-the-olympics.html

    Join the conversation in the comments below and let us know your thoughts on these pressing issues. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on all our latest content!

    #GenZ #Bible #Deadpool #Wolverine #Olympics #Christianity #FCCTalk

  • That Thing We Do: Fruit

    Hebrews 13:15 Through him(Jesus) then let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge his name.

    Through Jesus

    It all happens because of (through) Jesus.

    We are no longer under any religious system.

    Not under the Old Testament system of law and sacrifice, or any other.

    Not under a “New Testament” religious system either.

    Christ is the final offering for sin; He offered “one sacrifice for sins for all time.”

    This is important to understand because we consistently fail to live as we should live.

    When we fail, the enemy is quick to condemn us, telling us we can’t possibly be a worshiper after what we have done. Those words are lies.

    We can always come back to God in worship,

    no matter where we have been or how far we have fallen.

    We come through Jesus Christ, His death makes it possible for us to be accepted by God.

    Through Jesus Christ we can approach His throne of grace anytime. Anywhere.

    The awareness of the cross should be on your mind as you come to worship.

    How can I embrace this awesome God of wonder and not cherish the cross that allows me to approach Him in the first place?

    Many people do not know the fullness of what Christ has done for them.

    Without this understanding, they try to worship, but condemnation chokes out their praise. Guilt restrains their hearts. Shame stifles their hearts.

    In Jesus Christ, we are free. Eternally Forgiven. Rescued. Washed clean. Made new. Re-created.

    “There is no more condemnation for anyone in Christ Jesus.” Romans 8:1a

    He is our life. His righteousness is our righteousness. We are born again. Children of God. Permanently attached to Him. Our debt is paid. Death is defeated. We’re alive.

    These truths nail open the doorway to God’s presence.

    We always come to worship through the doorway of Jesus Christ.

    We are to worship continually.

    How?

    Hebrews 13:15

    “The fruit of the lips” that magnify God.

    There is no fruit without some kind of root.

    Whatever comes out of our mouths actually comes from the roots that have taken hold deep in our souls.

    Our praise doesn’t roll off our lips, but springs from deep down inside us.

    God is looking for people who are always soaking in His Word, sinking roots of His character into their minds and hearts. As a result, true expressions to and about Him are constantly coming out of their mouths.

    I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth. Psalm 34:1

    Hebrews 13:16

    The fruit of our lives that magnify God.

    Worship is expanded to include acts of compassion and integrity.

    When we choose to do what is right, God is worshiped.

    When we care for someone else, “God is pleased”.

    It’s a lot less taxing to go to church than to take “church” to your everyday life and world.

    If we immerse ourselves in God’s character, God’s character starts to grow “on the limbs of our tree.”

    His character will eventually find expression in the things we do.

    Even if no one else notices or cares, God does.

    What does this look like?

    Make the Mundane a Melody to God.

    Mundane? Any circumstance or task that doesn’t appear to have eternal significance.

    You can worship God wherever you are and whatever you are doing.(except sin)

    Your attitude of worship can turn any mundane task into an offering to God.

    What does that look like?

    Hebrews 13:16

    The question is not what you do, but who do you do it for?.

    Your mission is to worship...with everything you say and all you do.