Fr. Larry Richards is the founder and president of The Reason for our Hope Foundation, a non- profit organization dedicated to ”spreading the Good News” by educating others about Jesus Christ. His new homilies are posted each week.
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The Village Church exists to bring glory to God by making disciples through gospel-centered worship, gospel-centered community, gospel-centered service and gospel-centered multiplication.
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Welcome to the Enjoying Everyday Life TV podcast with Joyce Meyer. To learn more, visit our website at joycemeyer.org or download the Joyce Meyer Ministries App. By supporting Joyce Meyer Ministries, you can help us reach hurting people around the world. To find out more, go to joycemeyer.org/donate
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Grumpy helps a reader choose the best hydrangea for their hometown. Plus, Grumpy’s gripe of the week. You can find us online at southernliving.com/askgrumpy Ask Grumpy Credits: Steve Bender aka The Grumpy Gardener - Host Nellah McGough - Co-Host Krissy Tiglias - GM, Southern Living Lottie Leymarie - Executive Producer Michael Onufrak - Audio Engineer/Producer Isaac Nunn - Recording Tech Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…
5. Witness | Ransom
Manage episode 475497182 series 2288324
Content provided by Pastor Stephen Apt. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Pastor Stephen Apt or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://player.fm/legal.
Life often calls us to take a stand. Whether it's standing up for what we believe in or making a statement about who we are, these moments shape and define us. As followers of Christ, we’re sometimes called to take a stand that speaks to our relationship with our Savior. It’s not always easy, is it?
Take Peter, for example. He was one of Jesus' closest disciples, someone who boldly declared his allegiance to Christ. But when the moment came for Peter to take a stand and witness to his faith, he famously failed. Why? Because Peter’s focus wasn’t where it should have been. He had his eyes on his circumstances instead of his Savior, and his faith was resting on shaky ground—his own strength—rather than on the unshakable foundation of Christ.
It’s a sobering reminder for all of us. How often do we feel the pressure to stand firm in our faith, only to falter because we’re relying on ourselves? Yet here’s the good news: our faith doesn’t have to be perfect, because Jesus is. He is the foundation that will never fail us, even when we stumble.
437 episodes
ShareManage episode 475497182 series 2288324
Content provided by Pastor Stephen Apt. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Pastor Stephen Apt or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://player.fm/legal.
Life often calls us to take a stand. Whether it's standing up for what we believe in or making a statement about who we are, these moments shape and define us. As followers of Christ, we’re sometimes called to take a stand that speaks to our relationship with our Savior. It’s not always easy, is it?
Take Peter, for example. He was one of Jesus' closest disciples, someone who boldly declared his allegiance to Christ. But when the moment came for Peter to take a stand and witness to his faith, he famously failed. Why? Because Peter’s focus wasn’t where it should have been. He had his eyes on his circumstances instead of his Savior, and his faith was resting on shaky ground—his own strength—rather than on the unshakable foundation of Christ.
It’s a sobering reminder for all of us. How often do we feel the pressure to stand firm in our faith, only to falter because we’re relying on ourselves? Yet here’s the good news: our faith doesn’t have to be perfect, because Jesus is. He is the foundation that will never fail us, even when we stumble.
437 episodes
All episodes
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1 5. Knowing Christ is Unspeakable Joy | Shine Like Stars 19:15
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedWe love sharing with people the places we’ve been, things we’ve done, stuff we’ve accomplished. There are things in this world that have brought us joy that we want to share with others. But when we focus on sharing with everyone what we have done or accomplished, it can turn into a competition as to who has done or seen the most. And truth be told, all these things can only bring joy for so long. If we think things we have done have brought us joy, there is something that was done for us that brought us a greater joy than anything we’ve done or experienced. Unspeakable joy. And when we know this joy, believe it, celebrate it, it changes everything. Support the show…
Have you ever felt like you really didn’t fit in or belong in the place you are? Cheering for the wrong team in the wrong stadium? All dressed up while everyone else is casual? Excited about something no one else is? We live in a post-Christian world. The viewpoints prevalent in this world are a world apart from the viewpoint God gives us in His Word. That means, in this world, we stick out. Stand out. Shine like stars in a very dark sky. As we hold onto God’s Word and hold it out for other people to see, we will shine like stars in people’s lives. Imagine what a difference it makes in a dark night sky to see a bright light shining forth! We can make a difference in the lives of others, just like Jesus made a difference in ours. Let’s shine like stars! Support the show…
1 3. A High Call to a Lowly Life | Shine Like Stars 28:20
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedIn this world, it seems that it is important to show everyone who you are, what you have accomplished, what you deserve. Someone has to speak up for you, and it might have to be you! If you aren’t watching out for yourself, who is going to? But the greatest possible contradiction to this is the heart and core of the Bible. We must humble ourselves if we are to be exalted. Put the interests of others before ours? But if we do that, then who will take care of us? Who? Jesus will. The very one who showed us what it means to humble Himself for our good. The One who gave us life by doing so. So, let’s imitate Him. Let’s learn what a truly great life is – it begins with making ourselves lowly. Support the show…
What does it look like to live a life worthy of the gospel of Jesus Christ? It means living in such a way that shows Jesus is worth something to you. It looks like walking with, loving with, and doing life with those who are different than you, because Christ binds you together. It looks like striving together to make Christ known because Christ motivates you. It looks like standing with courage against all oppressors, because Christ secures you. To live is Christ. To Die is gain. Have you found Christ worth living for, dying for, worth casting all away for? That is what it means to live a life worthy of the gospel of Jesus Christ. To live is Christ. To die is gain. It’s a win-win! Support the show…
1 1. Have a Thick Skin and a Tender Heart | Shine Like Stars 29:59
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedLetting God’s light shine as we live in this dark world can be pretty difficult. As we follow Jesus in a world that doesn’t, we will face opposition. So we need a thick skin if we are going to do what God calls us to do. But we also need a loving heart toward people. Love moved Jesus to do what He did for us, and it is love for people that will move us to live out our purpose. This rare combination of a thick skin and tender heart was seen in the life of the Apostle Paul. As we look at this letter he wrote, from prison, to the people of Philippi, we can see his loving heart as he prays with joy because of these people who came to know and love Jesus. May God also make our skin thick and our hearts tender! Support the show…
Pastor Stephen Apt shares a message for Easter Sunday based on 1 Corinthians 15. Support the show
Pastor Apt shares a message for Palm Sunday. Support the show
Life often calls us to take a stand. Whether it's standing up for what we believe in or making a statement about who we are, these moments shape and define us. As followers of Christ, we’re sometimes called to take a stand that speaks to our relationship with our Savior. It’s not always easy, is it? Take Peter, for example. He was one of Jesus' closest disciples, someone who boldly declared his allegiance to Christ. But when the moment came for Peter to take a stand and witness to his faith, he famously failed. Why? Because Peter’s focus wasn’t where it should have been. He had his eyes on his circumstances instead of his Savior, and his faith was resting on shaky ground—his own strength—rather than on the unshakable foundation of Christ. It’s a sobering reminder for all of us. How often do we feel the pressure to stand firm in our faith, only to falter because we’re relying on ourselves? Yet here’s the good news: our faith doesn’t have to be perfect, because Jesus is. He is the foundation that will never fail us, even when we stumble. Support the show…
Two things in life are certain—death and taxes. Taxes are due in just a few weeks, and most of us are already preparing for that. But what about the other certainty? Death is something no one can predict. Who knows when it will overtake us? One thing is for sure: at that moment, we’ll stand before the ultimate Judge of all. That might sound sobering or even intimidating, but there’s incredible hope in what comes next. You see, for you, Jesus willingly stood before human judges and even God Himself. He, the ultimate Judge—the One who had every right to pass judgment—chose to be judged in your place. Think about that for a moment: the Judge of all the earth became the judged. He took on what we deserved so that we could stand justified before God. Because of what Jesus did, there’s now a new certainty for those who trust in Him: “Death, taxes, and justification.” Justification means you’re declared right with God—not because of what you’ve done, but because of what Jesus has already done for you. So today, as you think about the things in life that are certain, consider this: Jesus made a way for you to face life’s uncertainties with confidence and peace. He stood in your place so you could stand before God without fear. And that’s the best certainty of all. Support the show…
Everyone has their price. We’re all chasing something—whether it's success, love, purpose, or peace—and we’ll often pay almost any price to get it and keep it. But have you ever stopped to think about what price someone else might pay for you? Jesus had something incredible on His mind—you. When everyone else fled from the fight, when the cost was far too high for anyone else to pay, Jesus didn’t back down. He stepped forward, rose up, and embraced the fight. Why? Because embracing the fight meant He could embrace you. He didn’t run from the cost of love; He paid it in full so that you could be welcomed into His arms, forgiven and free. So, wherever you are in life, whatever you’re chasing, take a moment to consider this: Someone already paid the highest price to give you something far greater than you could ever imagine. And today, you’re invited to embrace Him, just as He has already embraced you. Support the show…
Family ties are some of the closest and most powerful bonds we experience. We know the deep joys they bring—and the heartbreak when trust is broken. Few things are harder to mend than a shattered relationship, especially when one has been unfaithful. Yet, in a love greater than anything we’ve known, Jesus chose to bind Himself to us—not with a fragile promise, but with His own blood. Though we’ve often been unfaithful to God, He calls us family and becomes our brother. He remains faithful even when we falter. This is a bond unbroken, a love unshaken. A bond solidified by Jesus' blood. Support the show…
We were stuck in a mess we couldn’t escape—trapped by fear of the cost, unwilling to pay it, and unable to find the way out. Deep down, we thought we could handle it on our own, but the truth? We couldn’t. Only one could—and He already did. Jesus stepped in, paying the price we couldn’t afford, wouldn’t choose, and didn’t even realize we needed. One Savior, one sacrifice, one ransom—for everyone who walks the earth. That changes everything Support the show…
Pastor Apt shares a message for Transfiguration Sunday. Support the show
We’re going to talk about sex! But it’s not going to be a shameful, embarrassing conversation. God loves sex. He created it and designed it for our enjoyment. He loves it when we enjoy sex the way he designed it. But good sex takes work. It’s not quite as movies and TV and porn represent it. Sex is a beautiful gift from God that can bring amazing blessings, but its power can also bring harm and pain when misused. Let’s learn about God’s beautiful gift of sex! Support the show…
1 6. Depression: God's Word Gives Lasting Hope | Taboo 27:50
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedDepression feels so overwhelming. Many times, there’s the feeling of having no hope. Here, we see the psalmist feel despair, his soul thirsting for the Lord. But then he talks to himself. Why am I so down? Even in this desperate situation, he is my Savior and my God. If only that was the silver bullet. However, depression can be like a yo-yo; wrestling match in the mind. One minute we know our hope is in God. The next moment, we are back to despairing. Keeping God’s Word in our mind, thinking about the hope we have, meditating on his promises, and the hope we have in him. Support the show…
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1 5. Anxiety: Our Heavenly Father Gives Peace | Taboo 30:48
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedAnxiety is prevalent in so many people today. Worrisome thoughts fill our minds and it leads to a bodily response. As Christians, God’s Word tells us again and again not to be anxious and not to worry. Why? Because we have a God who is in control. More than that, we get to call this God Father. Just like a loving father protects, provides, and loves his children, our Heavenly Father protects, provides, and loves us more than we could ever know. Support the show…
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1 4. Transgender: Letting Jesus Speak Into the Tension | Taboo 31:16
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedHow do Christians participate in the transgender conversation? How does God want Christians to feel about the topic, and more importantly, the people? Too often, the topic of transgender makes us think about ideologies, progressive societal trends, and angry debates. But what about people? How can we help people who struggle with transgender feelings? How does the gospel apply to this issue? God’s Word will be our guide as we see how God gives us hope amidst the brokenness of our bodies and minds. Support the show…
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Divine Savior Church-Santa Rita Ranch Sermons
1 3. Politics: Loving Across the Aisle | Taboo 33:29
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedWe live in a country of extremes. How many of us have seen online posts that rip apart those with opposing political views? We tend to avoid politics in conversations because we know how fast such a topic can cause anger to flare quickly, even between Christians. But what would it look like if we loved across the aisle? What if our focus was less about proving our political points and more about proclaiming the Savior who faced the ultimate injustice so he could make us citizens of his kingdom? This week, we explore how God's grace is the answer in our culture of divisive partisanship. Support the show…
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As we celebrate Baptism Sunday, we rejoice that our true identity as children of God is a divine gift through baptism, not a self-made achievement. Baptism, empowered by God’s Word, welcomes us into God’s family and grants us a new, unshakeable identity beyond our achievements or status. Unlike our culture that insists on earning worth through personal success, we find our true value at the cross of Jesus. Because God has given us such an identity, we are clothed with Jesus and we have the greatest reason to live. Support the show…
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Divine Savior Church-Santa Rita Ranch Sermons
1 1. Authority: Who Gets the Final Say | Taboo 26:24
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedWho gets the final say in your life? That question is a matter of authority. In a culture where we are raised to live out our truth, the Bible calls us to the exact opposite. We conform ourselves to the truth of God’s Word. That’s what it means to call Jesus Lord. Support the show
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Divine Savior Church-Santa Rita Ranch Sermons
Pastor Apt shares a message for Epiphany Sunday based on Matthew 2:1-12. Support the show
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Divine Savior Church-Santa Rita Ranch Sermons
1 4. The Ancient Shepherd | Messianic Metaphors 25:49
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedWhere have you been before? What is your background and experiences? These questions serve in evaluating candidates for leadership. They help us form our opinions, and the stronger the background and experiences, the better. What we celebrate at Christmastime is the one whose background and experience answer all our questions and give us security and peace. The one we worship and adore is begotten of the Father from eternity. He is worthy of all praise and glory, just as Mary sang in her song. And he comes to be our shepherd. To stomp on the ancient serpent and old evil foe, and to watch with care and concern over all his flock. Support the show…
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Divine Savior Church-Santa Rita Ranch Sermons
1 3. The Mighty Warrior | Messianic Metaphors 22:25
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedWhen your leader is strong, you are strong. When your leader is weak, fear and despair overtake his followers, because there will always be enemies and adversity. Fear and despair creeps into our lives because of the adversity and unknowns we face, but God calls you to rejoice, shout aloud, and sing, because your leader is a mighty warrior. Jesus came as an infant, lowly, and humble, yes, but he was a warrior with the might to overcome our greatest enemies – sin, death, hell, and Satan, who desires these for us. Since God has so delighted in us to send such a mighty warrior, we have nothing to fear. Instead, rejoice, shout, cheer, and sing for joy. Support the show…
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1 2. The Silver Refiner | Messianic Metaphors 25:42
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedThe anticipation of a new leader comes with new expectations for those who follow. Are we prepared in our own hearts to welcome the one for whom we prepare? God’s expectations stand for all time – they don’t change. Which means, we must change. All change is hard. This change is impossible – for us. Thank God his grace and mercy never change. He sends the refiner – the one who applies the heat so that the silver is purified. Our God calls us to return to him in repentance, acknowledging our sin and letting it be burned away, and God returns to us to restore, to refine, and purify through the miracle of justification and faith in Christ. The Holy Spirit will continue to refine and purify us as God’s holy children – purified silver in the hands of a master silversmith. Support the show…
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1 1. The Righteous Branch | Messianic Metaphors 26:14
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedLineage matters. Family trees tell us of the values and strengths. We might look at family members of the past to gain an understanding of a person in the present, and especially their pedigree when it comes to leadership. What if the family tree leaves much to be desired. What if there is weakness and immorality and brokenness there. This was the case with the family tree of the royal line of David and the ruling family of God’s people. A tree that seemed to begin so strong, became filled with weak, diseased, and broken branches. Yet, God promised to raise up a righteous branch in that tree. One who would serve his people well, and this righteous branch is also your righteous Savior. Support the show…
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1 5. Live with Your Eyes on the Sky | Live Like You'll Live Forever 27:19
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like Liked“Eyes on the prize.” That axiom stresses that when pursuing some good goal, focus is important. You don’t want distractions or a lack of self-discipline to keep you from obtaining whatever that prize might be. “Eyes on the prize.” You summon the willpower to fixate on that good thing. You let nothing divert your attention from obtaining the prize. The prize that we want most is spending eternity with Jesus. As the Church Year comes to a close, Jesus promises that he will come again “in clouds with great power and glory” to give us that prize. That prize will be so unbelievably good, it is worth fixating on. It merits our striving to set aside all that would distract us from Christ. Let us be ready. Let us keep watch. Let us live with our eyes on the skies. Support the show…
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1 4. Live Free From the Fear of Judgement | Live Like You'll Live Forever 24:17
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedHave you ever experienced that uncomfortable feeling that others are watching you, trying to find something to criticize? We don’t want others judging us. It is bad enough listening to the voice inside our own head, whispering that we aren’t worthy. How do we overcome the fear of judgment? It begins by realizing that there is only one person whose opinion ultimately matters—the Judge. Everyone is going to live forever in one of two very different places. Where you spend eternity depends on a judgment that Jesus will render. This week we see why his judgment need not trigger any sort of anxiety. Judgment day is something we can joyfully anticipate. We can live free from the fear of judgment. Support the show…
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1 3. Live a Life of Startling Generosity | Live Like You'll Live Forever 25:25
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedPerhaps you have heard the axiom, “Eat, drink, and be merry, for tomorrow we die.” In other words, while you still can, use what you have in order to enjoy life to the fullest. If this life is all there is, St. Paul agrees that would be a good philosophy. Paul wrote, “If the dead are not raised, ‘Let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we die’” (1 Corinthians 15:32). However, note the “if.” Paul was saying that the epicurean approach to life makes sense only if this life is all we have. But it isn’t. Jesus will raise us from the dead and take us to live in his home, a place of perfect comfort and beauty. Knowing that, we are set free from the need to live a self-indulgent life now. Instead, we can be generous people, using the wealth that God has given us to serve both him and others. We can live a life of startling generosity. Support the show…
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1 2. Live Knowing Life Only Gets Better | Live Like You'll Live Forever 25:12
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like Liked“It will get better.” We say that to try to comfort someone who is having a bad day (or maybe a whole string of bad days). Perhaps tomorrow will be better. But perhaps it’s worse. In this life, there really are no guarantees that things will get better. That isn’t the case with the life that is to come. That life isn’t just going to be better. It will be perfect. Support the show…
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1 1. Live a Life of Fearless Witness | Live Like You'll Live Forever 28:36
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedA message for Reformation Day: Jesus repeatedly told his followers that living as his disciples would bring hardship. Living life according to God’s Law is going to make one appear odd in the eyes of the world, perhaps even evil. Sharing a message of mankind’s sin and God’s gracious salvation can cause offense. So why not just stay silent if that makes life easier? Why not keep our faith private? Answer: because we are going to live forever. In gratitude for Christ saving us and giving us eternal life, we share the gospel with others, hoping that they will believe and be saved too. Since we know we are going to live forever in the perfection of heaven, we don’t worry if being a witness for Christ brings hardship or even death. Support the show…
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1 6. God's Final Answer to Our Pain | Job: Finding Peace on an Unpredictable Path 27:25
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedOne of the easiest ways to make our problems worse is to dwell on ourselves and make everything center around ourselves – make our life all about ourselves. It might seem counter-intuitive, but the way life works better is when we make life about God… because life is about God. With some of the most powerful words in Scripture, God reminds Job that the universe doesn’t revolve around Job. It revolves around God. A life focused on God will never disappoint. A life focused on self always will. Join us for the last week of the series and listen to God’s powerful words at the end of the book of Job. Support the show…
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Divine Savior Church-Santa Rita Ranch Sermons
1 5. Is It OK to Question God? | Job: Finding Peace on an Unpredictable Path 25:06
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedIs it OK to question God? Why have you received nothing you wanted from Him? Why has He let such awful things happen to you or those you love? Or to anyone in the world? Isn’t there a limit to what He will let you endure? Do you feel guilty if you are questioning God or something God is doing? Does questioning God mean you lost your faith in Him? Is there a difference between having questions for God and losing trust in Him? What gives us true comfort? Is it just maybe knowing WHO God is? Explore these questions with us in the book of Job this week. Support the show…
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1 4. God Is in Control | Job: Finding Peace on an Unpredictable Path 22:14
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedDo you feel like you are in complete control of everything? Or does your life sometimes feel out of control? And if we aren’t in control, who is? When we come to the realization that we aren’t in control, it becomes very important how we answer the question of who or what our God really is. Is our God in control? Is He able to control our lives? Do we worship Him only to get good things from Him and get Him to do what we want Him to do? Or is He the true God who uses his control over all things to love us and save us from the real reason for our brokenness? Let’s find the answer this week in Job. Support the show…
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1 3. Where Is Jesus in Our Pain? | Job: Finding Peace on an Unpredictable Path 24:48
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedHas it ever seemed God isn’t listening or answering your prayers? Things aren’t going your way, and you’re reaching out, but you’re starting to wonder if God is there? Where is God in your pain? Well… look at the cross. That is where God dealt with the real source of our pain. Jesus isn’t on that cross anymore. He rose and He lives. And because He lives, we will live too! That was Job’s strength, and it is also our strength. Because Jesus lives, we have something that gives us hope no matter what we suffer. Our loved ones we have lost will be with us again! Our real life is with our risen and living Lord in heaven! No matter what we go through here, we always have that hope! Support the show…
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1 2. Choosing the Right Friends | Job: Finding Peace on an Unpredictable Path 29:45
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedWhen things aren’t going your way, does your family help you? Or make it harder for you? Are you and your spouse a team who can be strong when the other is weak and regularly encourage each other? Or do you sometimes panic or lash out and make it even more difficult for the other? Different people react to the same difficult circumstances in different ways. Job and his wife had very different reactions to their difficult circumstances. Let’s see what we can learn from Job in how to deal with relationship pain and how can we learn to be stronger examples for our children. Support the show…
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1 1. Why Do Bad Things Happen to Good People? | Job: Finding Peace on an Unpredictable Path 27:08
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedNo matter who you are, young, old, rich, poor, sick, healthy, you face pressure in life. Parenting pressure, school pressure, work pressure, loneliness and grief pressure. We are often “surviving” one day at a time and don’t know what we will do if things get “worse.” Since we live in a broken world, we can expect things to go “wrong” in our lives and force us off the path we have charted for ourselves. Yes, “bad” things can happen to “good” people in this world. We begin looking at the Biblical book of Job today to learn how to find peace on an unpredictable path. How can bad things happen to good people? Listen in and find out. Support the show…
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1 When You Need a Neighbor | Pastor Rob Sirilla 24:01
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedGuest preacher Pastor Rob Sirilla shares a message on the Good Samaritan. Support the show
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1 3. Live for Jesus | Joining Jesus in Changing Lives 24:37
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedIntegrating faith into daily life is essential for becoming a contributing member of the body of Christ, supporting one another like family. Jesus asks, “Do you trust me with your life?” As our master and Disciple-Maker, He guides us to grow in Christian maturity, living less for self and more for Him and others. Jesus is the ultimate disciple-maker, using us to make disciples. We strive to be more like Jesus by keeping Him as our Disciple-Maker and trusting His Spirit to work through us in discipling others. Support the show…
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1 2. Listen to Jesus | Joining Jesus in Changing Lives 25:06
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedStarting the journey with the foundational teachings of Jesus’ truth is crucial. Jesus asks, “Do you listen to me?” highlighting the importance of His saving work as described in His Word. We thrive on joy rather than guilt by taking Jesus’ truth seriously. Being rooted in Christ and taking God's word seriously is essential for spiritual growth. Deepening one’s relationship with God leads to growth in hope, peace, and purpose. Support the show…
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1 1. Discover Jesus | Joining Jesus in Changing Lives 27:00
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedIn this week's sermon, we discover the initial encounter of John’s disciples with Jesus, where they are invited to "come and see" (John 1:39). This invitation is not just to observe but to discover who Jesus is. As Jesus asks, “Who do you say I am?” we understand that He is the answer to life’s biggest questions. At Divine Savior Church, we emphasize the importance of discovering Jesus through spending time with Him and our community. We offer various opportunities to connect, ask questions, and grow in faith. Our community, rooted in joy and grace, provides a safe and loving environment for all seekers. Join us as we journey together, changing lives with Jesus' truth and grace. Support the show…
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Divine Savior Church-Santa Rita Ranch Sermons
1 10. God Won't Give Us More Than We Can Handle | Are You Sure That's What It Means? 26:55
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like Liked"God will never give you more than you can handle." If that is true, God must really believe in your abilities to handle a difficult situation! But what happens when you fail to handle it? Is God disappointed in you? It seems like a comforting Bible passage, right? Actually, it is not found in the Bible, and it is not comforting at all! It does try to mimic I Corinthians 10:13, but that passage is speaking about temptation--something we all experience--and it is actually comforting because it urges us not to have faith in ourselves when temptations come, but to have faith in God, because even though temptations may be great, God's mercy and faithfulness are greater. Support the show…
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Divine Savior Church-Santa Rita Ranch Sermons
1 9. God Will Speak To You If You Just Listen | Are You Sure That's What It Means? 24:36
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedElijah heard the voice of God in the form of a whisper. Many people today claim that God speaks to them in whispers when they pray, through dreams, intuitions, feelings and circumstances. Wouldn't it be great to know that God loves us so personally that has a unique way of communicating with each one of us. He actually does, and it is a way that takes away all doubt and always gives comfort and certainty. We don't have to search for it or strain to hear it. It is right in front of us in his revealed Word! Listen to that Word and God will speak to you. Support the show…
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Divine Savior Church-Santa Rita Ranch Sermons
1 8. God's Plans to Prosper You | Are You Sure That's What It Means? 25:01
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like Liked"I wish I could figure out what God's plan is for my life." Many Christians have mouthed these anguished words. They read Jeremiah 29:11 and conclude that God has a detailed, tailored plan for their life that they just need to discover. This presumes that Jeremiah 29:11 is directed at us specifically, as well as the idea that we have no choices in life, kind of like chess pieces on a board that God moves around according to his will. When we start listening to the feelings of our heart, the passions that we have, or some "voice of God" we think we hear when we pray, in order to discover this plan, we are led either to idolatry or despair. What we really need is to trust the all-sufficient revealed Word of God and rejoice in the freedom it gives us through Christ. Support the show…
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Divine Savior Church-Santa Rita Ranch Sermons
1 7. Jesus Exceeds Expectations | Are You Sure That's What It Means? 18:11
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedSeminary student and guest preacher Zach Neuman shares a message of peace based on Mark 4:35-41. Support the show
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Divine Savior Church-Santa Rita Ranch Sermons
1 6. Jesus Speaks with Authority for You | Are You Sure That's What it Means? 25:40
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedGuest Pastor Rob Sirilla shares a message of hope based on Mark 1:21-28. Support the show
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Divine Savior Church-Santa Rita Ranch Sermons
1 5. Don't Judge | Are You Sure That's What It Means? 24:15
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like Liked"Don't judge me!" is not just a common saying, it is a philosophy of life for those controlled by the sinful nature. "Let me do whatever makes me feel good as long as it doesn't hurt other people, and don't criticize me for it." Even unbelievers pull out Matthew 7:1 to show Christians how lacking their Bible knowlege is and say, "See, Jesus tells you not to judge!" But is that what Jesus is saying? There is no question that Jesus calls us to judge, but the question is how should we judge? That's where Christians sometimes fall into temptation, by looking down on others whose lives are not as sanctified as theirs, and judging them in a self-righteous way. Let's let Jesus teach us what he means by examining the context of this oft-quoted saying, and then we will be ready to judge correcly. Support the show…
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Divine Savior Church-Santa Rita Ranch Sermons
1 4. You Can Have Life Without Limits | Are You Sure That's What It Means? 28:07
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedPhilippians 4:13 might easily be called the Christian version of, "Just do it." There's nothing you can't do if you set your mind to it...and trust in Jesus. Jesus will make it possible to achieve what you thought was impossible: beat cancer, found a Fortune 500 corporation, or win an Olympic medal. With Jesus at your side, there are no limits. But life is not one victory after another, even for the founder of a billion dollar corporation. What happens when we don't achieve what we want? We don't need Jesus as a mantra or a life coach but as a Savior sufficient to deliver us from sin, death and the power of the devil, and that's who he is. When we stop making it about our achievements and instead about Christ, we can have joy and peace at the highest points of life, and especially at the lowest. Support the show…
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Divine Savior Church-Santa Rita Ranch Sermons
1 3. Dying Is Just a Part of Life | Are You Sure That's What It Means? 25:04
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedDying seems so normal because it happens to everyone and so it is tempting to think that it is just a part of the life that God designed for us...but it isn't. Death is not our friend, nor is it something we should just "get used to" simply because it seems inevitable. Death is the consequence of sin and our enemy...an enemy that has been defeated by Christ, who took away the sin of the world. As believers in him we have sure and certain hope in the face of death, the hope of a real, eternal, physical, life in a world as God originally intended it to be. Support the show…
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Divine Savior Church-Santa Rita Ranch Sermons
1 2. God Loves You the Way You Are | Are You Sure That's What It Means? 25:58
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like Liked"God is love" is one of the most beautiful and comforting truths of the Bible, but it is also one of the most abused. Some understand God's love as if it were like human love, mostly based in feelings that change according to the behavior of those around us. Others feel a God of love is like a strict parent who is tough on you in order to push you toward great accomplishments. Still others think of God as a permissive grandfather in whose eyes you can do no wrong. He is willing to overlook your faults and focus on the good qualities you have. None of these ideas is correct. God's love cannot be comforting if it is subjective and dependent on us or on our behavior. God is love and his love is comforting because his love is an objective action that finds its fulfillment in Christ. Support the show…
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Divine Savior Church-Santa Rita Ranch Sermons
1 1. Faith Alone Isn't Enough | Are You Sure That's What It Means? 28:40
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedIt just sounds too good to be true, doesn't it? Those who trust in Jesus alone are completely forgiven and reconciled with God. This is what you have been taught, but this is such an important issue so it totally makes sense that there must be at least something that you have to do. Then you look in the Bible and it seems to agree with you because James says, "You see that a person is considered righteous by what they do and not by faith alone." Is James telling us that faith alone in Jesus is not sufficient? Is he in disagreement with the apostle Paul? In this message we will see that there is no disagreement at all. Faith alone in Jesus saves, but it is never alone! Support the show…
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Divine Savior Church-Santa Rita Ranch Sermons
1 8. Follow Your Shepherds and Stand Firm | The Living Hope of Easter 26:48
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedAs sheep, we are prone to wander. We need a Shepherd over us and we need to shepherd one another. Let’s follow our shepherds, pray for them, and encourage them. We are all serving The Shepherd who gave his life for us. So we humble ourselves, but God will exalt us! There is no safer place in the universe than in God’s hands – so let’s cast all our cares on Him. We need his protection – the enemy is real! But we are safe with God. Forever. The world can take away everything… but it cannot take our identity or our future. So stand firm in that living hope! And look forward to what Jesus is coming back to do for you! Support the show…
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Divine Savior Church-Santa Rita Ranch Sermons
1 7. Don't Be Surprised Life Isn't Easy | The Living Hope of Easter 25:46
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedIt’s not easy being a Christian today. It never has been. Jesus said that would be the case. We need a deeper joy, a deeper hope to live for to make it through. Easter gives us that living hope. But don’t be surprised by the suffering. Jesus experienced it too. Rejoice in it! It’s proof you belong to Him! Don’t be ashamed – be honored! We have nothing to fear about the future – but everything to look forward to! We are in the hands of the God who loved us so much He suffered for us and gave his life for us! Support the show…
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Divine Savior Church-Santa Rita Ranch Sermons
1 6. Living for God | The Living Hope of Easter 21:50
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedJesus knows what it is like to be ridiculed, abandoned, and humiliated. He suffered for us and by doing that, gave us a reason to live for Him, even when that is hard or means suffering for us. The first enemy we have to fight is our own sinful self. It craves things that God knows aren’t good for us. Let God change our hearts and minds – which will begin to change our behavior. The best way to do this is living with the end in mind – especially when the going is difficult. Living for God includes self-control, wisdom, loving, showing hospitality, serving, giving. We do all these things together as the body of Christ. Support the show…
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Divine Savior Church-Santa Rita Ranch Sermons
1 5. Better to Suffer for Doing Good | The Living Hope of Easter 25:31
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedIt’s not easy to suffer. We want to fight back and get revenge. But as Jesus followers, we live a new way. We don’t repay evil with evil, but evil with good. We are called to actively bless people! Even hard-to-bless people! If we are afraid of people, we will keep our mouths shut and not share the life-giving hope we have to share. Let’s remember the living hope of Easter. That will open our mouths and give us reason to share our hope. We have a living, eternal hope! Death is not the last word. The faith the Holy Spirit has given us brings us into that hope. Our “suffering” will lead to hope for many! Support the show…
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Divine Savior Church-Santa Rita Ranch Sermons
1 4. Follow in His Steps | The Living Hope of Easter 25:46
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedWe live in two different kingdoms – the kingdom of the world, and God’s kingdom. As citizens of this kingdom, we are called to submit to the governing authorities. It is part of how we honor God. But we do this remembering there is one true King, and He isn’t voted in. We honor our leaders, but we worship The King. Our submission shows worship to our heavenly King. The truth is, we are free. Free in Jesus – in the living hope of Easter. So let’s live as free people. But as servants honoring God. We aren’t the first to suffer. Jesus did for us. Let’s follow in his steps. We will never have to suffer what He did. And at moments of unjust suffering, we will discover whom we truly worship! Support the show…
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Divine Savior Church-Santa Rita Ranch Sermons
1 3. The Greatest Building, The Greatest Story | The Living Hope of Easter 25:27
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedJesus purified us and made us new - God's special possession! So it doesn’t make sense to keep living the way we used to. Let’s live new lives, imitating Him. Loving the hard-to-love. Let’s grow in our faith by continuing to be fed with his Word. Devour it! He is building us into a building – the greatest building – a spiritual building – His Church! The greatest building with the greatest story! He is the cornerstone and foundation. Our purpose is to glorify God in the world around us with our lives, our words, and our witness! Support the show…
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Divine Savior Church-Santa Rita Ranch Sermons
1 2. Joy in Suffering | The Living Hope of Easter 25:57
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedGrief. Suffering. Hardship. Loss. These experiences can cause hopelessness. We need a deeper joy, a deeper hope to live for to make it through. Easter gives that to us. So does the fact that God was thinking about us since before creation! The God who chose us before time began isn’t going to let go of us now. The future we have to look forward to will make everything worth it. That gives us reason for joy. Our suffering isn’t meaningless – it focuses us ever more sharply on the inheritance waiting for us. Support the show…
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Divine Savior Church-Santa Rita Ranch Sermons
1 1. How Shall We Now Live? | The Living Hope of Easter 22:59
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedIt’s not easy being a Christian in our world. The living hope of Easter makes it easier, it makes it possible. We learn how to think with hope and how to live with hope. The way we live shows what we are hoping in. God made us “strangers” in this world with the new home He has promised us. Do we live as strangers? Or do we forget that there is more than this? We won’t enjoy living with the love of God until we have the right fear of God. What Jesus did for us at Easter gives us all the reason in the world for hope and for living differently! Support the show…
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Divine Savior Church-Santa Rita Ranch Sermons
Pastor Apt shares a message of hope for Easter Sunday - based on Mark 16:1-7 Support the show
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Divine Savior Church-Santa Rita Ranch Sermons
Pastor Apt shares a message for Palm Sunday based on Mark 11:1-11 Support the show
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Divine Savior Church-Santa Rita Ranch Sermons
Pastor Stephen shares a message on Mark 9:30-37 Support the show
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Divine Savior Church-Santa Rita Ranch Sermons
1 10. Jesus Dispels Doubt | Race to the Cross 24:22
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedPastor Apt shares a message on Mark 9:14-29 Support the show
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Divine Savior Church-Santa Rita Ranch Sermons
Pastor Apt shares a message based on Mark 9:27-38 Support the show
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Divine Savior Church-Santa Rita Ranch Sermons
1 8. The Compassionate Savior | Race to the Cross 25:07
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedPastor Apt shares a message on Mark 7:31-37 Support the show
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Divine Savior Church-Santa Rita Ranch Sermons
1 7. The Heart of the Matter | Race to the Cross 24:00
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedPastor Apt shares a message based on Mark 7. Support the show
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Divine Savior Church-Santa Rita Ranch Sermons
Pastor Apt shares a message for Ash Wednesday - the beginning of the Lenten season. Support the show
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Divine Savior Church-Santa Rita Ranch Sermons
Pastor Apt shares a message for Transfiguration Sunday. Support the show
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Divine Savior Church-Santa Rita Ranch Sermons
1 5. Listen Carefully to Your Savior | Race to the Cross 26:39
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedThe coach observes his athletes, jots down his notes, compares the times, and then he speaks. He teaches. He gives important directions. Those with the humility to accept his instructions and encouragements will grow in their abilities. Those who think they know better will struggle and fail. Jesus is so much more than a coach. He is our God - our Savior! When he teaches and instructs us, it’s important we open our ears to listen to his Word and to put his words into practice. As Jesus instructs us with stories and illustrations, he asks us to listen. His Word will work. When we are patient, he brings about his own results from the words he speaks. Support the show…
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Divine Savior Church-Santa Rita Ranch Sermons
All along the course the runners find distractions. Some in the crowd cheer you on, some in the crowd cheer on your opponents. Some praise your form and skill. Some accuse you of cheating. But you can’t get distracted. You need to stay focused on what is most important. Jesus faced many distractions in his ministry, but he always stayed focused on the most important thing - drawing more and more to be closer and closer to God. He drew his disciples, he drew crowds, and he showed them how outsiders can become part of the family of God; how sinners can become saints! Support the show…
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Divine Savior Church-Santa Rita Ranch Sermons
1 3. Running on Forgiveness | Race to the Cross 25:00
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Play Later Play Later Lists Like LikedWhat inspires you to get up each day? What allows you to live with joy? With the hardships and struggles we experience in this world, we need something to encourage us and empower us to live well each day. Money, philosophy, and technology might be tools we use, but they aren’t the reason we live. Jesus uses tools to bring his incredible and miraculous grace into our hearts. That grace can inspire us each day. That grace gives us joy each day. Because of the power in Jesus’ words, you can live with joy; you can live with purpose; you can run on his forgiveness. Support the show…
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Divine Savior Church-Santa Rita Ranch Sermons
Some athletes are simply incredible. When they compete, you can’t help but stare in awe and wonder at the strength they exert, the focus on their task, the abilities with which they have been blessed, and what they are able to accomplish. It tells you something about their origin, their work ethic, their determination, and you wonder what drives them so hard. You can’t help but stare in awe and wonder at Jesus’ miraculous power. It is amazing! As he is determined to use that amazing power to help people in need, he shows his determination to continue to help people with their greatest need. Support the show…
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Divine Savior Church-Santa Rita Ranch Sermons
Every race has a start. As they prepare, and step up to the line, the competitors already have their minds and hearts on the finish line. They take their mark. There’s silence. The gun cracks and muscles instantly respond with action. The race is on! The eyes of the crowd are drawn in. Every race has a start, but it all began far before that moment. As did Jesus’ race to the cross. It began in time and history as God declared he would send a Savior. The preparations had been made, and now Mark describes how Jesus began his race, pulling us into it. Drawing us to follow this race, and even to run along with Jesus. Let’s go! Support the show…
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Divine Savior Church-Santa Rita Ranch Sermons
Guest pastor Pastor Tom Unke shares a message on the Song of Simeon answering the question "When is a person really prepared?" Support the show
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Divine Savior Church-Santa Rita Ranch Sermons
Pastor Apt shares a message for Christmas. Support the show
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Divine Savior Church-Santa Rita Ranch Sermons
Have you ever asked God for a sign? Did he deliver? Today God tells us to ask for a sign - to test him? He tells us to pray: “Thy Kingdom come.” He wantsus to see the signs of his kingdom. The sign of his holy Word preserved through millennia The sign of water combined with that Word of God. The sign of the most fulfilling feast laid out upon his table. The signs that remind us that God remains "Immanuel" - with us. Support the show…
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