Episodes
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Welcome to the podcast! This week, we're looking at some "fan mail" and we'll be answering the question: is the completion of the Bible the end of Spiritual gifts?
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The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the âeasy buttonâ for making disciples â whether youâre looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday.
Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org.
Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.
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1 Corinthians 13 is often called the âLove Chapterâ due to its powerful emphasis on the necessity of love for the Christian life. However, this passage has also been the subject of considerable debate, particularly surrounding the meaning of the term "the perfect" in verse 10 and how it relates to the continuation or cessation of spiritual gifts like tongues and prophecy.
Some argue that âthe perfectâ refers to the completion of the New Testament canon, and therefore, the miraculous gifts of the Spirit, such as tongues, prophecy, and knowledge, ceased once Scripture was completed. This cessationist view suggests that now that we have the Bible, we no longer need these gifts because Scripture is sufficient for our spiritual direction and maturity.
This article will explore the context of 1 Corinthians 13 and challenge the interpretation that âthe perfectâ refers to the completed New Testament, showing instead that Paul is pointing to something far greater and still futureâthe return of Christ and the full revelation of Godâs kingdom.
Q. Where did this interpretation come from in the first place?The interpretation that âthe perfectâ in 1 Corinthians 13:10 refers to the completion of the New Testament and that spiritual gifts like tongues, prophecy, and knowledge have ceased, primarily stems from the Cessationist theological perspective. This view emerged from a particular way of reading the New Testament and was later developed within certain branches of Protestantism.
Hereâs an overview of how this interpretation evolved:
1. Early Church to the ReformationIn the early church, there was no clear consensus that spiritual gifts had ceased after the apostolic age. The early Church Fathers, such as Justin Martyr, Irenaeus, and Tertullian, referenced the continued operation of spiritual gifts, including prophecy and tongues, in their writings. However, as Christianity became institutionalized and the church grew more organized, miraculous manifestations of the Spirit seemed to become less common, leading some to believe that these gifts were no longer needed.
During the Reformation (16th century), Protestant reformers like John Calvin began to articulate a view that extraordinary spiritual gifts were no longer active. Calvin, in particular, believed that miracles and certain gifts, such as tongues and prophecy, were given for the foundational period of the church and had ceased after the apostolic age. He argued that the purpose of these gifts was to authenticate the apostles' ministry as they spread the gospel and that once the canon of Scripture was completed, they were no longer necessary. This line of reasoning laid a foundation for later Cessationist views.
2. Post-Reformation DevelopmentThe...
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The LDS Church's "Gospel Topics Essays" released in 2013. These essays were written by Mormon experts in an attempt to explain away some of the difficult questions coming against the Church. In today's episode we explore the essay titled "Are Mormons Christians?"
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The Unveiling Mormonism podcast pulls back the curtain on Mormon history, culture and doctrine. Join us for new episodes every Monday.
Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/mormonism.
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Notes
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Episodes manquant?
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Welcome back to the podcast! Today's world is full of conflicting thoughts, ideas, and problems. In this episode, we'll be answering the question: should serious Christians ever compromise?
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The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the âeasy buttonâ for making disciples â whether youâre looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday.
Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org.
Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.
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Q. Should Serious Christians Ever Compromise?
Might seem like a weird questionMaybe you know Christians who never compromiseDraw hard lines everywhere on everything. Totally unbendingEx: Halloween Ex: TattoosThe Fundamental Law of Legalism: Drawing a hard line in gray areas weakens the hard lines we draw in the black and white.So we have to be smart about compromise!Parents: could win the battle but lose the warOur strategy: donât make a big deal of these gray areas (even though we still drew boundaries) â so our kids would take us seriously when we drew the line on serious issuesA strange paradox: Biblical Christians draw hard lines in some areasAnd then they turn around and compromise in other areasToday: Weâll see the first time the church wrestled with thisIt was such a big question, they gathered in JerusalemFirst church councilEverybody was there! Peter, Paul, Barnabas, etc.To answer: When do we fight vs when do we compromise?I want to start at the end: where they landedIn the words of Paul, later, to the church at CorinthItâs a great summary, and it shows you this is a thingCompromise, that is, for serious ChristiansCause Pauls was serious, unbendingYet look at where he landed on this ?1 Corinthians 9:19-21 (NLT) 19 Even though I am a free man with no master, I have become a slave to all people to bring many to Christ. 20 When I was with the Jews, I lived like a Jew to bring the Jews to ChristâŠ. 21 When I am with the Gentiles who do not follow the Jewish law, I too live apart from that law so I can bring them to Christ. But I do not ignore the law of God; I obey the law of Christ.
Hypocrite? No way! Jesus-centered vs. rule-centeredJust wanted to point people to JesusTherefore willing to compromiseHeart issuePointed Jews to Jesus by using the law of MosesPointed Gentiles to Jesus without using the law of MosesAll along obeyed the higher law âof ChristâIe, not free to do whatever we want (antinomianism)compromising on the Lordship of ChristLast week: Acts 14, Paulâs first missionary journey
Proclaimed the gospelContextualized the gospel for GentilesMade disciples and commissioned them to make disciplesReturned to home base, AntiochNow we have a blended church, and with that came questionsâŠ
Acts 15:1-2 (NLT) 1 While Paul and...
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In today's episode Pastor Bryan answers a listener's question about people who have never heard the gospel.
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The Unveiling Mormonism podcast pulls back the curtain on Mormon history, culture and doctrine. Join us for new episodes every Monday.
Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/mormonism.
Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.
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Welcome back to the podcast! Today weâre going to spend some time studying Paulâs first missionary journey, answering the question: What are the marks of a Biblical missionary?
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The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the âeasy buttonâ for making disciples â whether youâre looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday.
Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org.
Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.
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Today weâre going to spend some time studying Paulâs first missionary journey. Tracing his travels through Acts, we can break his travels into three parts:
First Missionary Journey (Acts 13-14): Paul, along with Barnabas, traveled through Cyprus and parts of modern-day Turkey, including cities like Antioch, Iconium, Lystra, and Derbe.Second Missionary Journey (Acts 15:36-18:22): This journey began after a disagreement with Barnabas. Paul traveled through regions of Asia Minor and then to Europe, including cities like Philippi, Thessalonica, Berea, Athens, and Corinth.Third Missionary Journey (Acts 18:23-21:17): Paul revisited many of the places he had previously established churches, such as Galatia and Ephesus, and continued his ministry in Macedonia and Greece.Today weâll answer this question: Q. What Are the Marks of a Biblical Missionary?
Today weâll identify Three Marks.First: What is a missionary?Defn: A âsent oneâ who goes to a different culture to share the good news about Jesus.âMissioâ means to be sent. Implication: sent on Godâs mission. In the case of Paul & Barnabas: sent by the Holy Spirit, but through the local church (13:1-3)Comes from Great Commission:Matthew 28:19 (NLT) 19 Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.Why does this question matter?Not all missionary efforts are biblical!Our church: do these missionaries actually make disciples? Think of it like an investmentâŠGoal: make moneyIf it didnât make money, would you keep investing? At some point, NO!Back to biblical missions:Goal: make disciplesIf it didnât make disciples, would you keep investing?Example: missionaries in SpainLiving like they were retiredNo fruit, no disciple-makingOur church: evaluating our investmentsIndividually, tooSo letâs get to the text, the first-ever Christian mission
To discover Three Marks of Biblical MissionariesThree things that were true back thenTheyâre still true todayMark 1: Biblical missionaries proclaim the gospel. (14:1-7)
Easy to forget this and make the focus âdoing goodâ for societySome famous missionaries and their humanitarian impact: John Eliot (1604â1690)Known as the "Apostle to the Indians," Eliot was an English Puritan missionary who focused on converting Native Americans in New England.Eliot advocated for the rights of Native Americans, often opposing -
Welcome back to the podcast, men! Weâre going to take a break from our Stormproof series this week to talk about the upcoming election and answer the question: should a Christian vote for the lesser of two evils?
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The PursueGOD Men's podcast helps guys apply God's Word to their lives to become full circle followers of Jesus. Join us for a new men's episode every other Thursday.
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Iâve had multiple people in my congregation sending me videos from different influencers and pundits. Several of them are criticizing the church for not being more vocal about who to vote for in the upcoming presidential election. Is the churchâs role to tell you who to vote for or teach you how to think biblically so that you can vote in a way that honors God? I would answer that it is the latter.
They cite that many pastors are encouraging people to sit this election out because there isnât a godly candidate. Is that the right approach?
Is there a godly candidate?If you feel that you are trying to vote for the lesser of two evils and youâre not sure if you should vote at all, consider framing it by voting for who would do the most good. Is voting for the lesser of two evils a valid strategy?
Jeremiah 29:1-9 These are the words of the letter that Jeremiah the prophet sent from Jerusalem to the surviving elders of the exiles, and to the priests, the prophets, and all the people, whom Nebuchadnezzar had taken into exile from Jerusalem to Babylon. 2 This was after King Jeconiah and the queen mother, the eunuchs, the officials of Judah and Jerusalem, the craftsmen, and the metal workers had departed from Jerusalem. 3 The letter was sent by the hand of Elasah the son of Shaphan and Gemariah the son of Hilkiah, whom Zedekiah king of Judah sent to Babylon to Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon. It said: 4 âThus says the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel, to all the exiles whom I have sent into exile from Jerusalem to Babylon: 5 Build houses and live in them; plant gardens and eat their produce. 6 Take wives and have sons and daughters; take wives for your sons, and give your daughters in marriage, that they may bear sons and daughters; multiply there, and do not decrease. 7 But seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the Lord on its behalf, for in its welfare you will find your welfare. 8 For thus says the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel: Do not let your prophets and your diviners who are among you deceive you, and do not listen to the dreams that they dream,[a] 9 for it is a lie that they are prophesying to you in my name; I did not send them, declares the Lord.
Iâm going to sit out because there isnât a Godly candidate. The Israelites were in a pagan country and were told to pray for the peace of the city, plant crops. They were told to be engaged in the community. God didnât tell them to disengage because they had ungodly leadership. If you were waiting to vote for a godly candidate how long would you have to wait? When is the last time you could say with confidence we have had a godly candidate? We have church leaders that we think are godly, only to find out they have -
In this episode Pastor Bryan does a deep dive on the historical context in which Mormonism was born.
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The Unveiling Mormonism podcast pulls back the curtain on Mormon history, culture and doctrine. Join us for new episodes every Monday.
Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/mormonism.
Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.
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The Cane Ridge Revival of 1801 (Smith was born in 1805) was one of the most significant events of the Second Great Awakening, attracting thousands of people to the rural meeting grounds near Cane Ridge, Kentucky. Often described as Americaâs first "camp meeting," it became a powerful symbol of the evangelical fervor and transformative social energy characteristic of the revivalist movement. Organized by Presbyterian minister Barton W. Stone, the Cane Ridge Revival ultimately became a catalyst for the Restoration Movement and helped shape the trajectory of American evangelical Christianity in the 19th century.
Key Aspects of the Cane Ridge RevivalThe Setting and Attendance:
Cane Ridge was a small frontier settlement with a simple log church, yet the revival attracted an astonishing 10,000â20,000 people over the course of several days in August 1801. This was unprecedented for the time, especially in such a remote area. Attendees came from multiple states and diverse denominations, including Presbyterians, Methodists, and Baptists, drawn by word-of-mouth and the promise of a powerful religious experience.
Camp Meeting Format:
The revival used the camp meeting format, which would become a hallmark of the Second Great Awakening. People set up tents and stayed on the grounds for days, worshiping and participating in continuous services. Multiple preachers spoke simultaneously from different locations, allowing crowds to move from one sermon to another and creating an immersive, 24/7 environment of worship, singing, and prayer.
Emotional and Physical Reactions:
Attendees reported a wide range of intense physical and emotional responses to the preaching, which were often seen as signs of divine presence. People fainted, trembled, shouted, spoke in tongues, and even went into "fits." Some fell into trances, while others cried out in repentance or sang with ecstatic fervor. These manifestations were controversial but contributed to the atmosphere of awe and fervor, as many saw them as evidence of the Holy Spiritâs power.
Emphasis on Personal Conversion:
The revival centered on personal conversion experiences and repentance, stressing a direct relationship with God that didnât depend on church tradition or hierarchy. The Cane Ridge preachers, including Stone, called people to experience a "new birth" and a deep personal commitment to Christ. This call for individual faith resonated strongly with the democratic and egalitarian ideals of the early American frontier, where settlers sought new spiritual freedoms along with their new... -
Welcome back to the podcast, today we're talking about fasting as we continue our study in Acts chapter 13.
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The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the âeasy buttonâ for making disciples â whether youâre looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday.
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Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.
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Today is a turning point in our study of Acts (Weâll cover ch 13)
Reminds me of âClueâ:Col Mustard in the library with the candlestick, orProf Plum in the kitchen with the revolverHereâs a summary of Acts:Ch 1-12: Peter in Jerusalem with the HSCh 13-28: Paul in Gentile territories with the HSRemember: Acts of the Apostles = Acts of the HSToday weâll see a spiritual discipline that opens us to be used by HSFastingHave you ever done it?In the Bible, fasting is a discipline where believers intentionally set aside their most basic needs to realign their hearts with Godâs will.Food, water (mainly what weâre talking about today)TV, entertainmentSocial mediaQ. Five Reasons Christians Should Fast
Based on an examination of Acts 13So open your Bibles with meâŠFasting is a timeless spiritual discipline.
We see it all over the Bible: followers of God sometimes fast.Moses - He fasted for 40 days and nights on Mount Sinai when receiving the Ten Commandments (Exodus 34:28).David - He fasted when he was grieving for the illness of his child (2 Samuel 12:16).Elijah - He fasted for 40 days while fleeing from Jezebel (1 Kings 19:8).Esther - She called for a fast among the Jews before approaching King Xerxes (Esther 4:16).Daniel - He fasted and sought God for understanding and guidance (Daniel 9:3; Daniel 10:3).Anna - The prophetess who served in the temple, fasted regularly (Luke 2:37).Jesus - He fasted for 40 days in the wilderness before beginning his ministry (Matthew 4:1-2).And we also see it here in Acts 13âŠActs 13:1-2 (NLT) 1 Among the prophets and teachers of the church at Antioch of Syria were Barnabas, Simeon (called âthe black manâ), Lucius (from Cyrene), Manaen (the childhood companion of King Herod Antipas), and Saul. 2 One day as these men were worshiping the Lord and fastingâŠâAs these men were fastingâŠâNo need for explanationIt seemed normative for the early churchMatthew 6:16 And when you fast, donât make it obvious, as the hypocrites do, for they try to look miserable and disheveled so people will admire them for their fasting. I tell you the truth, that is the only reward they will ever get.âWhen,â not âIfâQ. Have you ever fasted? Reason #1: Fasting is a timeless spiritual discipline.See also: Breakthrough Disciplines (Series)But Christians should not fast pointlessly, just because itâs âwhat we do.â Itâs about more than thatâŠ
Fasting helps us to hear the Holy...
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When someone leaves the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), one of the most pressing and emotionally challenging concerns is the fear of going to "outer darkness." According to Mormon doctrine, outer darkness is often thought of as a place reserved for the most severe sinnersâthose who were once believers in the truth of the gospel but later rejected it. This concept can induce significant fear for members who contemplate leaving the LDS church. However, from a biblical perspective, the idea of being cast into "outer darkness" for leaving Mormonism is inconsistent with the broader teachings of Scripture. Let's explore why.
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The Unveiling Mormonism podcast pulls back the curtain on Mormon history, culture and doctrine. Join us for new episodes every Monday.
Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/mormonism.
Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.
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When someone leaves the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), one of the most pressing and emotionally challenging concerns is the fear of going to "outer darkness." According to Mormon doctrine, outer darkness is often thought of as a place reserved for the most severe sinnersâthose who were once believers in the truth of the gospel but later rejected it. This concept can induce significant fear for members who contemplate leaving the LDS church. However, from a biblical perspective, the idea of being cast into "outer darkness" for leaving Mormonism is inconsistent with the broader teachings of Scripture. Let's explore why.
1. Understanding Outer Darkness in LDS TheologyIn LDS theology, "outer darkness" is a term used to describe the ultimate destination of those who commit the "unpardonable sin" of denying the Holy Spirit after having received a perfect knowledge of the truth. This concept is derived from the teachings of Joseph Smith and the Doctrine and Covenants (D&C 76:31-38, 88:24). According to these teachings, those who end up in outer darkness are typically referred to as "sons of perdition" and are believed to be cast off from God forever.
While the LDS church emphasizes grace and various levels of glory in the afterlife, outer darkness is portrayed as a terrifying place of eternal punishment, usually reserved for those who were fully enlightened by the gospel and then rejected it.
2. The Concept of "Outer Darkness" in ScriptureThe term "outer darkness" appears a few times in the New Testament, specifically in the Gospels (Matthew 8:12; 22:13; 25:30). In these passages, it refers to a place of weeping and gnashing of teeth, often described in connection with those who reject God's invitation or fail to be faithful to His call. However, biblical scholars generally agree that these references to "outer darkness" do not align with the LDS concept of a unique place of punishment for former believers of a particular church.
In biblical terms, "outer darkness" is better understood as a metaphor for the separation from God that comes from rejecting Christ, not for leaving any particular denomination. The ultimate issue in the Bible is not church membership but one's relationship with Jesus. As John 3:36 says, "Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for Godâs wrath...
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Welcome back to the podcast! This week we're continuing in Acts to clarify what Jesus meant when, Matthew 7:8, he said: "For everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. And to everyone who knocks, the door will be opened.â
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The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the âeasy buttonâ for making disciples â whether youâre looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday.
Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org.
Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.
Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.
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Q. If You Keep Knocking, Will God Open the Door?
What did Jesus mean when He told us to ask, seek, and knock?Matthew 7:7-8 (NLT) 7 âKeep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you. 8 For everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. And to everyone who knocks, the door will be opened.â
Is this a promise or a principle?Ex: Prov 22:6 âtrain up a childâŠâClearly a principleSo: If I Keep Knocking, Will God Open the Door?
Letâs go to Acts to find our answerâŠActs 12:1-2 (NLT) 1 About that time King Herod Agrippa began to persecute some believers in the church. 2 He had the apostle James (Johnâs brother) killed with a sword.
(Pillar New Testament Commentary) King Herod in this context means Herod Agrippa I (reigned AD 41-4), who was son of Aristobulus and grandson of Herod the Great (reigned 37 BC â 4 BC).(Pillar New Testament Commentary) son Agrippa II in Acts 25:13â26:32. Agrippa I also had two daughters, Drusilla, who is mentioned in 24:24, and Bernice, who is mentioned in 25:13.James dies. First apostle to go.Acts 12:3-4 (NLT) 3 When Herod saw how much this pleased the Jewish people, he also arrested PeterâŠ. 4 Then he imprisoned him, placing him under the guard of four squads of four soldiers each. Herod intended to bring Peter out for public trial after the Passover.
Sound familiar?John 21:18-19 (NLT) 18 âI tell you the truth, when you were young, you were able to do as you liked; you dressed yourself and went wherever you wanted to go. But when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and others will dress you and take you where you donât want to go.â 19 Jesus said this to let him know by what kind of death he would glorify God. Then Jesus told him, âFollow me.âActs 12:5 (NLT) 5 But while Peter was in prison, the church prayed very earnestly for him.
Here we go. Prayer works!Acts 12:6-8 (NLT) 6 The night before Peter was to be placed on trial, he was asleep, fastened with two chains between two soldiers. Others stood guard at the prison gate. 7 Suddenly, there was a bright light in the cell, and an angel of the Lord stood before Peter. The angel struck him on the side to awaken him and said, âQuick! Get up!â And the chains fell off his wrists. 8 Then the angel told him, âGet dressed and put on your sandals.â And he did. âNow put on your coat and follow me,â the angel ordered.Acts 12:9-10 (NLT) 9 So Peter left the cell, following the angel. But all the time he thought it was a vision. He... -
One of the central experiences many members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), commonly known as Mormons, testify to is a feeling described as "a burning in the bosom." This phrase is derived from Doctrine and Covenants 9:8, where it speaks of a spiritual confirmation through an internal feeling of warmth or peace. Mormons often interpret this experience as the Holy Spirit confirming the truth of the Book of Mormon or other LDS teachings. But what should Christians make of this experience? How does it compare to the Bible's teaching on spiritual discernment and truth?
D&C 9:8 But, behold, I say unto you, that you must study it out in your mind; then you must ask me if it be right, and if it is right I will cause that your bosom shall burn within you; therefore, you shall feel that it is right.
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The Unveiling Mormonism podcast pulls back the curtain on Mormon history, culture and doctrine. Join us for new episodes every Monday.
Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/mormonism.
Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.
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One of the central experiences many members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), commonly known as Mormons, testify to is a feeling described as "a burning in the bosom." This phrase is derived from Doctrine and Covenants 9:8-9, where it speaks of a spiritual confirmation through an internal feeling of warmth or peace. Mormons often interpret this experience as the Holy Spirit confirming the truth of the Book of Mormon or other LDS teachings. But what should Christians make of this experience? How does it compare to the Bible's teaching on spiritual discernment and truth?
The Subjective Nature of ExperienceThe concept of a "burning in the bosom" is subjective and relies heavily on personal feelings as a way to confirm religious truth. Mormons are taught to seek personal confirmation of their beliefs through this emotional experience. While experiences are certainly part of a believerâs life, they are not the foundation of truth in Christianity.
The Bible warns against relying solely on feelings to determine truth. Proverbs 28:26 says, "He who trusts in his own heart is a fool, but he who walks wisely will be delivered." Jeremiah 17:9 echoes this by stating, "The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick; who can understand it?" In other words, while emotions and internal feelings may feel compelling, they can be misleading if not anchored in objective truth.
See related
Truth According to the BibleJesus said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me" (John 14:6). He points to Himself as the embodiment of truth, not a subjective feeling. The Bible emphasizes knowing God through His revealed Word and by the Spiritâs illuminating work, not by relying on emotions or spiritual experiences alone.
When discerning truth, the Bible consistently points us back to Scripture. In 2 Timothy 3:16-17, Paul writes that "All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for...
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Welcome back to the podcast! Today weâll examine a certain kind of person we see in Acts - so profound, his name still carries a reputation: Barnabas.
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The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the âeasy buttonâ for making disciples â whether youâre looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday.
Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org.
Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.
Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.
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We're starting the speed round: taking one chapter a week.
Focusing in on one element in the chapterYouâll have to go back and read the whole chapter on your ownToday: weâll examine a certain kind of person we see in Acts - so profound, his name still carries a reputationThereâs a name for this: a generic trademark or proprietary eponym. This happens when a brand name becomes so widely recognized that itâs used to describe a general product or category rather than the specific brand.tissue paper = Kleenexadhesive bandage = Band-AidCola = Cokelip balm = ChapStickcotton swab = Q-tipslow cooker = Crock Pothook-and-loop fastener = VelcroToday: Q. What are the trademark qualities of a âBarnabasâ? Barnabas = EncouragerWeâre going to drill down to identify 5 qualities of a âBarnabasâ1. A âBarnabasâ gives more than takes.
We already saw this in ch 4Acts 4:32 (NLT) 32 All the believers were united in heart and mind. And they felt that what they owned was not their own, so they shared everything they hadâŠ. 36 For instance, there was Joseph, the one the apostles nicknamed Barnabas (which means âSon of Encouragementâ). He was from the tribe of Levi and came from the island of Cyprus. 37 He sold a field he owned and brought the money to the apostles.âTribe of LeviâThese were the priests, the giversThey were supposed to serve the peopleâThe Lord was their inheritanceâJoseph had that kind of heartGiver, not a takerDo you know someone like that? (SG question this week)2. A âBarnabasâ sees the best in people.
We saw this in ch 9 with Saul after his dramatic conversionActs 9:26-27 (NLT) 26 When Saul arrived in Jerusalem, he tried to meet with the believers, but they were all afraid of him. They did not believe he had truly become a believer! 27 Then Barnabas brought him to the apostles and told them how Saul had seen the Lord on the way to Damascus and how the Lord had spoken to Saul. He also told them that Saul had preached boldly in the name of Jesus in Damascus.Barnabas miraculously appears to vouch for SaulHe saw the best in himPaid attention to his changed life rather than judging him on his past lifeDo you know someone like that? (SG question this week)3. A âBarnabasâ embraces the chaos.
This is where we get to todayâs text, ch 11Acts 11:1-3 (NLT) 1 Soon the news reached the apostles and other believers in Judea that the Gentiles had received the word of God.
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The question of whether families are forever in heaven is a central tenet of Mormon theology, but how does this idea align with the Bible? The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), commonly known as Mormonism, teaches that families are eternal, and through specific temple ordinances, marriages can be sealed for time and eternity. This concept appeals to the deep human desire for everlasting connection with loved ones, yet the Bible presents a different perspective on the nature of relationships in eternity. In this episode we explore how biblical theology addresses this question and where it diverges from Mormon doctrine.
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The Unveiling Mormonism podcast pulls back the curtain on Mormon history, culture and doctrine. Join us for new episodes every Monday.
Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/mormonism.
Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.
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The question of whether families are forever in heaven is a central tenet of Mormon theology, but how does this idea align with the Bible? The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), commonly known as Mormonism, teaches that families are eternal, and through specific temple ordinances, marriages can be sealed for time and eternity. This concept appeals to the deep human desire for everlasting connection with loved ones, yet the Bible presents a different perspective on the nature of relationships in eternity. Letâs explore how biblical theology addresses this question and where it diverges from Mormon doctrine.
Mormon Doctrine on Eternal FamiliesMormonism teaches that marriage, family, and human relationships can be eternal through sacred ordinances performed in their temples. A key scripture often cited by Mormons is found in Doctrine and Covenants 132:19, which discusses the sealing of marriages that can last "for time and all eternity." For faithful Latter-day Saints, this belief promises that family units will continue beyond this life, ensuring the continuation of their relationships forever.
What Does the Bible Say?While the Bible affirms that relationships are important in this life and that marriage is a God-ordained institution, it does not teach that earthly family units, including marriages, will persist in their current form in heaven. Instead, the Bible offers a more profound view of eternal life in which all believers are united in Christ.
1. Marriage Does Not Continue in HeavenOne of the clearest statements about marriage in eternity comes from Jesus Himself. In Matthew 22:23â30, the Sadducees, who denied the resurrection, asked Jesus a tricky question about a woman who had been married multiple timesâwhose wife would she be in the resurrection? Jesus answered in verse 30, saying, âFor in the resurrection they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but are like angels in heaven.â
Jesusâ response shows that earthly institutions like marriage do not continue in heaven. Instead, believers will experience relationships that are transformed, not bound by earthly categories like marriage or family. Think about the implications of marriage in heaven. Polygamy would exist!? This is clearly not an option according to the Bible.
2. Heavenly Relationships Are Perfected, not... -
Welcome back to the podcast! Today, we're going to answer this question: Did God change how salvation works?
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The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the âeasy buttonâ for making disciples â whether youâre looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday.
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Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.
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Today weâre in part 4 of our mini-series on how salvation works
Three weeks ago: Is Anyone Too Far Gone for God? (Acts 8:26-40)Answer: No! God can reach you on the desert road to nowhereTwo weeks ago: How Does Spiritual Conversion Actually Work?Weâll looked at the dramatic conversion story of Saul (Paul)â and what we can generalize from his experience.About the HS opening eyesAnd how faith/repentance changes you in an instantFrom death to lifeFrom enemy of God to child of GodLast week: How can you know if youâre really saved? (Acts 9:20-31)Paul went about preaching the gospel immediatelyThe disciples in Jerusalem didnât believe he was really saved!? After 3 years! We looked at how Christians can have âassuranceâ of their salvationToday to finish up weâll dig deeper into a theological question:Q. Did God Change How Salvation Works?
Have you ever thought about this?In the NTgrace, forgiveness, JesusJn 14:6 Jesus said to him, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.âJesus is THE way. But what about in the OT?Did salvation work one way in OT before JesusAnd another way in NT after Jesus?Q. What was the Old Testament way of salvation?
Many thought: saved by keeping the commandmentsIn Jewish tradition, there are 613 commandments (known as the Mitzvot) in the Torah. These commandments are derived from the five books of Moses (Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy) and encompass a wide range of moral, religious, and civil laws. 248 positive commandments (things to do) and 365 negative commandments (things not to do)Scholars estimate that around 100 to 150 of the 613 commandments address issues of purity and impurity.Dietary Laws (Kashrut): These include commandments related to clean and unclean animals (Leviticus 11, Deuteronomy 14).Table fellowship refers to the practice of sharing meals, which in ancient Jewish culture held deep social, religious, and spiritual significance. In the context of the Old Testament and Jewish tradition, sharing a meal symbolized more than just eating together; it represented community, unity, and, in many cases, ritual purity. This practice also reinforced the separation between Jews and Gentiles due to differences in dietary laws and religious observance. Eating with Gentiles, who were considered ritually impure, could defile an observant Jew, requiring purification rites (Leviticus 20:24-26).Clean vs. uncleanSo is this how people were saved... -
The concept of pre-mortal existenceâthat humans existed before their earthly lifeâis a theological doctrine central to Mormonism (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints). In contrast, the traditional Christian view, rooted in the Bible, maintains that life begins at conception, and there is no pre-birth existence of the soul. In this episode, we explore both perspectives and defend the biblical view against Mormon teachings on pre-existence.
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The Unveiling Mormonism podcast pulls back the curtain on Mormon history, culture and doctrine. Join us for new episodes every Monday.
Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/mormonism.
Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.
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Pre-Mortal Existence: A Biblical Response to Mormon Teachings
The concept of pre-mortal existenceâthat humans existed before their earthly lifeâis a central doctrine of Mormonism, officially known as The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS). In contrast, traditional Christianity, grounded in the Bible, teaches that life begins at conception and denies any pre-birth existence of the soul. This article will explore both perspectives and present a biblical defense against the LDS doctrine of pre-existence.
The Mormon Belief in Pre-Mortal ExistenceIn Mormon theology, it is believed that human beings existed as spirit children of God before their earthly life. This belief is foundational to their understanding of the purpose of life. Key Mormon scriptures, including Doctrine and Covenants 93:29 and Abraham 3:22-23 (from the Pearl of Great Price), outline the idea that humans lived as pre-mortal spirits in heaven before coming to Earth.
Mormons believe that this pre-mortal existence is essential for understanding why humans are sent to Earth: to receive bodies, face challenges, and ultimately return to God. Life on Earth is seen as a critical step in an eternal journey of progression, where spiritual growth continues after death.
Biblical Refutation of Pre-Mortal ExistenceWhile Mormonism presents a narrative of pre-mortal existence, traditional Christianity finds no biblical basis for this belief. Instead, Scripture presents a clear view that human life begins at conception, and each soul is uniquely created by God.
Several key passages are often misunderstood in LDS theology but, when correctly interpreted, refute the concept of pre-existence:
Jeremiah 1:5 (NLT): âI knew you before I formed you in your motherâs womb. Before you were born I set you apart and appointed you as my prophet to the nations.âThis verse, often cited by Mormons, does not refer to a pre-existence. Instead, it highlights God's foreknowledge and His plans for Jeremiah. Similar language is used in passages like:
Romans 8:29: Godâs foreknowledge and predestination.Ephesians 1:4: Godâs choice of believers before the foundation of the world. These passages emphasize Godâs omniscience, not human pre-mortal existence.
Psalm 139:16 (NLT): âYou saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed.âThis text celebrates God's... -
Welcome to part three in our Salvation 101 mini-series! Today we'll be asking and answering the question: How can you know if youâre really saved?
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The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the âeasy buttonâ for making disciples â whether youâre looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday.
Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org.
Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.
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Q. How Can You Know If Youâre Really Saved?
Part 19 in our Acts series!!Part 3 in our mini-series on âHow Salvation WorksâTwo weeks ago: Is Anyone Too Far Gone for God? (Acts 8:26-40)Answer: No! God can reach you on the desert road to nowhereLast week: How Does Spiritual Conversion Actually Work?Weâll looked at the dramatic conversion story of Saul (Paul)â and what we can generalize from his experience.Today: How can you know if youâre really saved? (Acts 9:20-31)Paul went about preaching the gospel immediatelyThe disciples in Jerusalem didnât believe he was really saved!? After 3 years! (Pillar New Testament Commentary) Even believers who have seen the power of God at work in their own lives can doubt God's ability to change others.The fancy term for this: âassurance of salvationâCan you have it for yourself?Some people âknow that they knowâ theyâre saved, no problems with thisSo many other people doubt their salvation and live in fear of judgmentHereâs the thing: you can think youâre saved and NOT be savedFalse conversions are a thing. Jesus said:Matthew 7:21-23 (NLT) 21 âNot everyone who calls out to me, âLord! Lord!â will enter the Kingdom of Heaven. Only those who actually do the will of my Father in heaven will enter. 22 On judgment day many will say to me, âLord! Lord! We prophesied in your name and cast out demons in your name and performed many miracles in your name.â 23 But I will reply, âI never knew you. Get away from me, you who break Godâs laws.âOuch! One of the most frightening verses in the Bible!So, how can you know? Weâll get to that answer, but letâs start with our textâŠActs 9:19-20 (NLT) Saul stayed with the believers in Damascus for a few days. 20 And immediately he began preaching about Jesus in the synagogues, saying, âHe is indeed the Son of God!â
Wow! What a transformation in Saulâs lifeOne moment heâs persecuting these messengers of ChristianityNext moment he IS a messenger!Have you met anyone like this? Total transformationActs 9:21 (NLT) 21 All who heard him were amazed. âIsnât this the same man who caused such devastation among Jesusâ followers in Jerusalem?â they asked. âAnd didnât he come here to arrest them and take them in chains to the leading priests?â
Acts 9:22 (NLT) 22 Saulâs preaching became more and more powerful, and the Jews in Damascus couldnât refute his proofs that Jesus was indeed the Messiah.
(Pillar New Testament Commentary) When Luke says that Saul grew more and more powerful, the term he uses (enedynamouto) suggests the empowerment of the Spirit.Proving... -
In this episode, Pastor Bryan takes a deep into the Bible to answer the question "Do Mormons Hold the Keys to the Kingdom?".
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The Unveiling Mormonism podcast pulls back the curtain on Mormon history, culture and doctrine. Join us for new episodes every Monday.
Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/mormonism.
Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.
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The phrase "keys to the kingdom" is found in Matthew 16:19, where Jesus tells Peter, "I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven." This phrase has significant theological implications, especially in the context of how different Christian traditions interpret its meaning. While various denominations, including Roman Catholicism and Mormonism, have their own views on this passage, this article will focus on a biblical perspective of the "keys to the kingdom" and offer a critique of how it is understood in Mormon doctrine.
Mormon Doctrine of "Keys to the Kingdom"The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS or Mormonism) teaches that the "keys to the kingdom" refer to the authority of the priesthood, which they believe was restored through Joseph Smith. In Mormon doctrine, the "keys" of the priesthood are held by Church leaders, specifically the president of the Church, who is considered a prophet, seer, and revelator. These keys are believed to include the authority to perform necessary ordinances for salvation, such as baptism, confirmation, marriage, and other sacred rites.
Mormon teaching emphasizes that the priesthood keys are necessary for entering the celestial kingdom, the highest level of heaven in LDS theology. They believe that these keys were lost after the death of the original apostles and were restored through Joseph Smith during the early 19th century. In this view, the LDS Church is the only church that has the fullness of the priesthood keys necessary for salvation.
What Does the Bible Really Teach about the "Keys to the Kingdom"?Matthew 16:15-19 (NLT) 15 Then Jesus asked his disciples, âBut who do you say I am?â 16 Simon Peter answered, âYou are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.â 17 Jesus replied, âYou are blessed, Simon son of John, because my Father in heaven has revealed this to you. You did not learn this from any human being. 18 Now I say to you that you are Peter (which means ârockâ), and upon this rock I will build my church, and all the powers of hell will not conquer it. 19 And I will give you the keys of the Kingdom of Heaven. Whatever you forbid on earth will be forbidden in heaven, and whatever you permit on earth will be permitted in heaven.â
In Matthew 16:19, the "keys to the kingdom" symbolize authority, specifically spiritual authority in the context of the Church. The image of keys implies the power to open and close doors, which in this case represents the ability to grant or deny access to the kingdom of heaven. This authority is often understood to involve the power of teaching, guiding, and governing within the Church under Christâs leadership.
Authority to Bind and Loose: The terms "bind" and "loose" in first-century Jewish context referred to legal and religious... -
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The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the âeasy buttonâ for making disciples â whether youâre looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday.
Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org.
Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.
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Notes
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Welcome back to the podcast as we continue our journey through the bool of Acts. Today weâre starting a 4-week mini-series on salvation, and we'll be answering this question: Is anyone too far gone for God?
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The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the âeasy buttonâ for making disciples â whether youâre looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday.
Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org.
Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.
Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.
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Q. Is anyone too far gone for God? (Acts 8:26-40)
I often meet people who assume the answer is yesâŠPast Sins: Many people believe that their past mistakes, whether big or small, make them unworthy of God's love and forgiveness. They may feel too "dirty" or guilty to be accepted.Current Sins: Those battling ongoing struggles, such as addiction or habitual sin, may feel trapped in their behavior and believe that God has turned away from them.Feelings of Unworthiness: Some individuals struggle with low self-esteem or feelings of inadequacy. They may feel they're not "good enough" for God because of how they perceive themselves, often because of sins against them.Spiritual Doubts: People who struggle with doubt or uncertainty about their faith might think God would reject them for not being "strong" believers. Compare your faith with someone elseâs. Today weâre going to see the story of a guy who was definitely too far gone for God, at least from a Jewish religious perspective. But he kept seeking anyway, and he found the surprising answer to this question: No one is too far gone for God!Letâs get to the textâŠ
Desert RoadActs 8:26 (NLT) 26 As for Philip, an angel of the Lord said to him, âGo south down the desert road that runs from Jerusalem to Gaza.â
Last week: Philip was in Samaria leading a revival!Must have seemed strange that God would send him away from Samaria to a desert road going nowhere! Away from Jerusalem, where God was on the moveToward Gaza - either the old city, destroyed by Alexander Jannaeus in 96 BC, or the newer city which replaced it in 56 BC (Pillar New Testament Commentary) (IVP Bible Background Commentary: New Testament, Second Edition) Philip might have no one to preach to on a little-traveled road that would lead by a deserted city, and after the revival in Samaria this command must seem absurd to him; but God had often tested faith through apparently absurd commands (e.g., Ex 14:16; 1 Kings 17:3-4, 9-14; 2 Kings 5:10). The term translated âsouthâ can also mean ânoonâ; traveling at noon was very rare (see 22:6; comment on Jn 4:5-6), so this detail, if intended, would make the command seem even more absurd.Barrett 1994, 422-3. There are 25 uses of mesÄmbria in the LXX and all except Dn. 8:4, 9, appear to mean 'midday'. Cf. Acts 22:6 for Saul's conversion 'at noon' (peri mesÄmbrian). Spencer 1997, 94, argues that travel at such an extraordinary time and under such unusual circumstances has the literary effect of suggesting an opportunity for 'world shattering knowledge and experience'.Desert... -
Today weâll look at the first part of Acts chapter 8. Weâll do a âthreat assessmentâ on the early church as we answer this question: What Are the Churchâs Greatest Threats?
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The PursueGOD Truth podcast is the âeasy buttonâ for making disciples â whether youâre looking for resources to lead a family devotional, a small group at church, or a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Join us for new episodes every Tuesday and Friday.
Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org.
Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.
Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.
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Q. What Are the Churchâs Greatest Threats?
(Alpine is 23 years old today!)First public service held Sept 9, 2001Two days later the twin towers fell and the world changedThreat of terrorismThreat of global warThreat of losing American wayBut Alpine continued to grow, and todayâŠEight campuses, and growing!Opening service at the Syracuse buildingWhere will God take us in the next 23 years? And what threats will we have to endure?Today weâll look at three threats that the early church faced (persecution, power, and division) and one bonus threat that seems unique to us today (apathy). We have a lot to cover, so letâs get straight to the textâŠ
The Threat of PersecutionActs 8: (NLT) 1 Saul was one of the witnesses, and he agreed completely with the killing of Stephen.
Acts 8:1-3 (NLT) A great wave of persecution began that day, sweeping over the church in Jerusalem; and all the believers except the apostles were scattered through the regions of Judea and Samaria. 2 (Some devout men came and buried Stephen with great mourning.) 3 But Saul was going everywhere to destroy the church. He went from house to house, dragging out both men and women to throw them into prison.
The External ThreatPay attention to the language here, and how different it is from what weâve seen so far in our study of ActsFirst, letâs review the memories (honeymoon stage)Growth: Acts 2:41 (NLT) 41 Those who believed what Peter said were baptized and added to the church that dayâabout 3,000 in all.Miracles: Acts 3:7 (NLT) 7 Then Peter took the lame man by the right hand and helped him up. And as he did, the manâs feet and ankles were instantly healed and strengthened.Community: Acts 4:32 (NLT) 32 All the believers were united in heart and mind. And they felt that what they owned was not their own, so they shared everything they had.Freedom: Acts 5:42 (NLT) 42 And every day, in the Temple and from house to house, they continued to teach and preach this message: âJesus is the Messiah.âNow we have all new language:âGreat wave of persecutionâI remember standing in the ocean with my kids when they were young, the power of the wavesThatâs nothing compared to the tsunami that hit Japan March 11, 2011They call it â3/11âThe church experienced this external threatA tsunami of persecutionscaryâall the believers ⊠were scatteredâSo much for community!And then this:âSaul was going everywhere to destroy the... - Montre plus
