FBC Independence Podcast

God Uses People: The Apostle John

When I was a student back in ‘Preacher School,” I was having a difficult time in one of my classes, which dealt with interpreting the Old Testament.  I didn’t like what the teacher was teaching. I disagreed with his interpretation of a great story from the days of the Hebrew people before Jesus.  At one point in his lecture, the teacher stopped and asked for questions;  I immediately shot up my hand!  He called on me, and I said, a little too aggressively, that I disagreed with what he had said about the story.  This started a very difficult discussion in front of the class that taught me a lesson I have used almost weekly in my 45 years as a Pastor.

           

My professor was very kind and said, “Ok, Mr. Payne. Tell me your thoughts about our story and why you disagree with what I’ve said.  I did so as well as I could.  Even though I had held to my beliefs for some time, they had never been ‘tested.’  As the words came out of my mouth, I realized that my answer didn’t seem to make as much sense as before my involvement in this class. (This upper-level class taught us to read and interpret the Old Testament in the original Hebrew language).  When I finished, the teacher, still kind and patient with me, began to ask me a series of questions.  For instance:  “What are the words in the Bible that have led you to reject my interpretation?” Following my answer, another question:   “Knowing what you know from our studies in Hebrew, is your interpretation supported by the text?”  We had quite a discussion, and he continued to lead me through a thought process that revealed that not only was I wrong in my interpretation, but what I held to be true was completely distorting the passage's meaning! 

           

This experience changed my life!  The fact that I embarrassed myself in front of the class was bad enough, but that was an easy lesson. The greater lesson that affects me today is that if my beliefs and interpretations contradict the scriptures, I am wrong!  As my professor said, pay attention to what the Bible says and what the Bible does not say.’

           

Many of you who are reading this article may have had experiences in life with similar effects.  In the Bible, we can read that John the Apostle had many!  For instance, at one point in Mark 5, Jesus raised from the dead a young girl, the child of a Roman soldier. They had argued with Jesus over this because they thought it was too late; also, they were probably resistant to helping a Roman soldier whom they saw as their enemy.  Jesus’ actions and kindness to the soldier and the raising of the girl from the dead challenged their understanding of life and death. They taught them that even a Roman soldier’s family was worthy of God’s love.  This was one of Jesus’ methods by which he taught his disciples how to live and minister in his name.  The disciples who witnessed this miracle were forever changed – their beliefs and practices concerning ministering to people and offering God’s love to them were forever altered!  

The point of this whole message is that when we follow Jesus and cling to our faith in him, He will change our lives over time!  He will teach, correct, and mature us in the faith.  The goal is for us to live our lives so that He might use us in ministry to a world that desperately needs what only Jesus can give!

           

Here’s a passage that can help us in our journey: 

“If then you have been raised with Christ, keep seeking the things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your mind on the things above, not the things on earth.  For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.”

                                                                                   

Colossians 3:1-3

 

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God Uses People: Jacob

One of my friends from my early years in school was a red-headed boy named Mike.  Mike and I were pretty good friends, and we got along well – no arguments or fussing, as far as I can remember.  My family was relatively mild in behavior. Dad was a Deacon in our church, and my mother was the church organist. Still, Mike's family was different than mine!  His dad was a known 'fighter' in our small community and had several run-ins with the local police.  He was nice enough, but would grow violent quickly when tensions or disagreements arose.  This trait was passed down to Mike's older brother, who often got into fights after school!  As he got older, he had trouble in school because of his temper and violent tendencies. He dropped out before graduating.  Mike was a little gentler and slower to anger than his family. Still, he, too, developed a tendency towards violence and fighting with kids after school.  Eventually, we drifted away from each other, as our learned behaviors led us in different directions in life.  His family influenced him in one direction, and my family influenced me in another direction.         

 

That is a lesson we've all learned. If you teach your children to be violent and belligerent, they will turn out that way; if you teach your children to be peaceful and work together, that is the type of life they will choose.  Of course, there are exceptions to that rule, but generally speaking, that is how it is!

 

Interestingly, this is precisely what the scriptures teach.  The book of Genesis contains a story of Jacob, whose parents taught him to live in a particular way.  His name means ‘suppla't'e', which means he would ‘take t'e 'l'ce’ of another, through deceit and trickery.  Mom and Dad were good people, but Jacob, a moment-younger twin, was their favorite.  They did not teach him good behavior, but instead spoiled him.  As the boys aged, this behavior began to have serious implications.  For instance, one day, the older twin, Jacob, came in from a long hunt, starving!  Jacob had cooked a big pot of stew and worked out a trade with his brother: He would give Esau a bowl of hot stew, for the ‘birthright', that the 'older brother would receive at the appropriate time.  Esau, in a fit of hunger and not thinking, agreed, thinking that the birthright was worthless if he were to die of hunger.  Jacob worked a scheme on his older brother to get something for something for nothing.’  The steak was inexpensive, of course. Still, the birthright of a firstborn of a wealthy man such as their father, Isaac, was of profound value!  There would come a time when Esau would realize what Jacob had done, but it would be too late. 

Another time, Jacob's brother, when their father was near death.  Isaac called Esau to bring him a final meal, and he would give his ‘blessing’ to him. 'This was the firstborn Isaac's sce sce! Jacob’s mother overheard the conversation and devised a scheme for her favorite son, Jacob, to receive the blessing.  He dressed up and acted in a way that deceived Isaac, who gave him the blessing. When Esau discovered the deception, he was furious.  He swore he would someday kill his brother!

 

Jacob received Esau’s inheritance and fled his homeland to escape Esau.  He lived in fear and shame for many years because of the way he had received the blessings from his father and tricked his brother.  Finally, years later, they were able to make amends.  They both lived long and good lives. Jacob’s life was always troubled because he had followed the deceitful ways of his mother.

 

There is no better example of "We reap what we sow." Indeed, "Jacob's is spoken of to this day and teaches us the consequences of sinful behavior.

 

This is how the New Testament explains the principle:  “Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, he will reap.  For the one who sows to his flesh shall from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit shall from the Spirit reap eternal life. And let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we shall reap if we do not grow weary.”  Galatians 6:7-9

 

Let me encourage you to rise above any bad teachings or behaviors you may have picked up over the years!  Treat people well, and with grace.  Watch your tongue.  And, always, live in a way that honors the Christ who saved you.

 

Your support is invaluable in spreading our ministry. By sharing our podcasts, you help build a strong community of believers. We appreciate your contributions and encourage you to inspire others to join our mission. Your involvement keeps our community connected and thriving.

 

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Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to this journey with you—see you next week!

God Uses People: Abraham

People's past experiences often prepare them for meaningful roles—like George Washington's background as a surveyor preparing him to lead in battle. Similarly, biblical figures like Abraham were uniquely shaped by their lives to fulfill God's purposes.

 

Abraham's story is a prime example of obedient faith. At 75 years old, seemingly out of nowhere, God called him to leave his home and everything familiar to go to a new land. Abraham responded with trust and immediate obedience, even though the call was disruptive and demanding. His willingness to follow God's lead—despite age, uncertainty, and sacrifice—made him the father of a nation.

 

God Calls Us to Obedient Faith: Abraham's immediate response to God's command (Genesis 12:4) shows that faithful obedience is not about age or circumstances, but about trust. Obeying God may mean making difficult decisions and stepping away from comfort and familiarity.

 

When We Trust God, He Can Use and Bless Us: God promised Abraham a great nation, and though challenges arose, God remained faithful. The blessings often come in unexpected ways and at unexpected times, but God's promises are sure. Abraham's legacy continues through Israel and ultimately through Christ.

 

Disobedience Has Consequences: Abraham's choices—like going to Egypt during famine or fathering Ishmael through Hagar—had lasting implications. This reminds us that even well-meaning deviations from God's plan can have ripple effects.

 

Faithful obedience Leads to Impact: Abraham's faith journey not only shaped his life but also the course of history. His obedience led to a spiritual lineage that includes Jesus Christ and extends to all believers.

 

Until his calling, Abraham lived a quiet, perhaps even unremarkable life. But God used him in powerful ways because of his faith and obedience. His story encourages us to listen for God's call, trust in His promises, and step out in faith—no matter where we are in life.

"Christ redeemed us… so that in Christ Jesus the blessing of Abraham might come to the Gentiles…" – Galatians 3:13–14

 

Your support is invaluable in spreading our ministry's message. By sharing our podcasts, you help build a strong community of believers. We appreciate your contributions and encourage you to inspire others to join our mission. Your involvement keeps our community connected and thriving.

 

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Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to this journey with you—see you next week!

The Last Words of Jesus: Father, Into Thy Hands I Commit My Spirit

Some time ago, I stumbled upon a video produced by a Christian organization about Easter.  Rather than a serious-minded drama depicting Jesus on the cross, or Roman soldiers mocking Jesus and gambling for his garment as he hung in the background, it was something very different!  A very creative teacher had instructed a group of elementary-age children to write their version of the Easter weekend events, which they had been studying in class for some time.  Along with the story they told, they also drew pictures of Jesus talking to his disciples, standing in front of the crowd as they yelled, "Crucify him, crucify him!" After that, they told of Jesus appearing to his followers after the resurrection.  It was entertaining and funny, all the while presenting a simple presentation of the gospel message.

         

First, they talked about how Jesus loved his people and walked around talking to them, and helping them.  He healed some and fed others but always said to them, "I love you," and "God loves you."  The people responded with delight that God loved them and cheered when Jesus said that He loved them, and would save them.

           

Another theme was the fact that Jesus was going to wash away their sin by dying on the cross.  The video didn't deal with the complexities of sin, forgiveness, and regeneration, which are 'preacher terms;' instead, Jesus told them he would cleanse them of their sin, and help them to experience God at work in their lives.  If those in the crowd would simply believe in Jesus as Savior, and ask him to come into their hearts, he would save them, and help them every day.

           

Finally,  the video pictures Jesus appearing to the disciples on the beach after the resurrection;  people hugged him and sang songs, and all had big smiles.  Jesus has come back from the grave!  This was an obvious act of God and was His way of proving that Jesus was his son and that the crucifixion and resurrection were God's way of saving us all from our sins. 

           

This all came from the mouths of children!  They didn't use many religious terms or try to 'guilt' anyone to go to church or give an offering.  These children "got it:"  They presented the message of the Gospel:  God loves us and sent Jesus to save us.  And, when we ask him to save us, he washes away our sins and helps us to live better lives.   

Pretty good work for a bunch of kids, eh?     

           

This is what Easter is all about!  Jesus, God's Son, was crucified on the cross, buried, and then came back from the dead.  When we receive these truths into our lives, Jesus saves us, transforms us, and begins to bless us, forever.  Amen!

 

Your support is invaluable in spreading our ministry's message. By sharing our podcasts, you help build a strong community of believers. We appreciate your contributions and encourage you to inspire others to join our mission. Your involvement keeps our community connected and thriving.

 

Your financial support is the backbone of our ministry, funding outreach, facility upkeep, and resources. Your generosity fuels our mission, making a real impact. Give here: https://firstbaptistofindependence.aware3.net/give/

 

Stay updated by downloading our App: https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or liking our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/. These platforms keep you engaged and connected.

 

Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to this journey with you—see you next week!

The Last words of Jesus: It is Finished

Have you ever considered the question, "What is God's will for my life?"  That is a serious question!  When I was in college at a Christian school, this was the 'hot topic' for many of the sermons we heard during group Chapel.  Preachers would talk loud and long about how important it was to find and live out God's will for our lives.  There were formulas for success; some made sense, and others seemed silly and even simplistic.  The whole idea was that God's will was some 'plan for our lives,' giving purpose to our existence, leading us to the right job or career, and even to the correct made. The idea that if we followed God's will for our lives, He would bless us and make us happy, and we would have a good life was also always part of the sermon.  Finding and following God's will was essential for the person of faith!  

  

By the time of the crucifixion, Jesus was very concerned about God's will for his life!  He loved God, wanted to please God, and knew God had a 'plan' for his life.  So, he spent much time in prayer and study of the scriptures and served others in need, all in the belief that these were the actions of God.  For Jesus, the will of God was a steady march to the cross, that he might be the sacrifice for the sins of all humanity.  Jesus, somewhere along the way, had discerned God's will for him:  He would live a life totally devoted to God, without sin.  He would be arrested and tried in court, beaten, scourged, and mocked by the crowds.  Finally, he would be crucified as a criminal and, on the cross, bear the cost of all our sins.  He would be the Messiah, the promised savior!

 

Here are a few of his final words that show us that his end on the cross was an act of faith and fully a part of God's plan for him:  Just a couple of minutes before he breathed his last, the scriptures record: "A jar full of sour wine was standing there; so they put a sponge full of the sour wine upon a branch of hyssop and brought it up to His mouth.  When Jesus received the sour wine, He said, 'It is finished!'  And He bowed His head, and gave up His spirit."

           

God's will for Jesus was a call to obedience, self-sacrifice, and suffering.

 

Here are a couple of great truths that might help us in our lives as we seek and find God's will for our own lives:

           

First, God's will may not always be easy or enjoyable!  God may call us to endure difficult circumstances and suffer in some way.  It may be to complete an unpleasant task or be in the presence of people you do not like.  We must remind ourselves that the purpose of God's will is to obey his leadership and complete the task to which we are called.  God's will is not the pursuit of happiness; rather, it is to fulfill God's plan for us; our happiness or fulfillment is merely the result of living out God's will!

           

Another truth is that when we follow God's will, our lives are given a greater purpose than just the concerns of our small circle.  God is concerned with the timeless, eternal values taught in scripture and how humanity is affected when people live by them.  When we live out God's will, the spiritual truths in the scriptures come to life:  lives are saved, cultures are influenced for good, and God is glorified.  It can be a truly miraculous event when God's will is fulfilled!

 

Your best life is experienced when you seek out, find, and live God's will.  It is found as you seek Him in your life and trust what He teaches you in the scriptures!

 

Your support is invaluable in spreading our ministry's message. By sharing our podcasts, you help build a strong community of believers. We appreciate your contributions and encourage you to inspire others to join our mission. Your involvement keeps our community connected and thriving.

 

Your financial support is the backbone of our ministry, funding outreach, facility upkeep, and resources. Your generosity fuels our mission, making a real impact. Give here: https://firstbaptistofindependence.aware3.net/give/

 

Stay updated by downloading our App: https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or liking our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/. These platforms keep you engaged and connected.

 

Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to this journey with you—see you next week!

The Last Words of Jesus: Woman, behold your son

In one of His final moments on the cross, Jesus speaks powerful words found in John 19:26-27—words that show His deep love, compassion, and purpose. Join us as we explore how Jesus remembered His mother, cared for her, and honored her, even in His suffering. Through this act, He not only fulfilled His duty as a son but also revealed the heart of God and invited us into a greater spiritual family. This is a message of love, connection, and invitation—one that still speaks to us today.

 

Your support is invaluable in spreading our ministry's message. By sharing our videos, you help build a strong community of believers. e appreciate your contributions and encourage you to inspire others to join our mission. Your involvement keeps our community connected and thriving.

 

Your financial support is the backbone of our ministry, funding outreach, facility upkeep, and resources. Your generosity fuels our mission, making a real impact. Give here: https://firstbaptistofindependence.aware3.net/give/

 

Stay updated by downloading our App: https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or liking our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/. These platforms keep you engaged and connected.

 

Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to this journey with you—see you next week!

The Last Words of Jesus: Today, you will be with me

I grew up in a large family, where I was number 5 out of 6;  the youngest was my little sister, a pretty, quiet little blonde who went through a several-year period of frailty and illness, which she eventually outgrew.  Interestingly, due to her physical condition, she lived with a persistent, irrational fear that our parents were going to die and leave our family without anyone to care for us.  She would cling to our mother, day after day, worrying about mom dying and leaving her; she was beside herself!  Fortunately, everyone stayed healthy, and she grew up to become strong and outgoing and lived a confident and happy life.   

           

I've often thought about her concern for our parents' premature deaths.  What was going on with her?  Why was she so afraid?  And, to be sure, don't many of us live with some nagging fears in the back of our minds that someone might die prematurely?

 

One of the greatest gifts that God has given us through Jesus, in addition to the gift of salvation through the Gospel message, is the conviction that when we die, God will take care of us!  This is a gift that literally 'keeps on giving,' as all of us face the possibility of death every day of our lives, even when we don't think about it!

 

Here is one of the passages in the Bible upon which this conviction is based:  The scene is focused on Jesus hanging on the cross hours before his death.  People are mocking Jesus and taunting him, as is another thief hanging on an adjacent cross.  He says to Jesus, "Are You not the Christ?  Save Yourself and us!"  In response, a different thief, hanging on another cross, says to him, "Do you not even fear God since you are under the same sentence of condemnation?   "And we indeed justly, for we are receiving what we deserve for our deeds, but this man has done nothing wrong."  And he was saying, "Jesus, remember me when You come in Your kingdom!"  Here is Jesus' response to the thief who asked  him for help, "Truly I say to you, today you shall be with Me in Paradise."  Luke 23:39-43

           

That is one of the clearest passages in the Bible which speaks  of the Christian belief in life after death, "Today, you shall be with me."  Jesus, nearing his own death, not only comforts another facing his own mortality, he offers us all lasting words, solace, and hope as we consider our own deaths! 

           

We are aware that we shall die at some point in the future, as will everyone!  Because of the unknown concerning death, there is an almost unlimited fear and discomfort with this truth, and  literally hundreds of differing religious and philosophical notions that deal with the question of "what happens when I die?"  But this one passage, spoken  by The One whom we believe to be the Son of God, with power, answers clearly, without any details, "Today, you shall be with me in Paradise."  \

           

The unnamed 'thief on the cross' could face his own death without fear simply because he had expressed his faith in Jesus!  He didn't have all the details, to be sure, but Jesus said he would never be alone.  Too, Jesus' words communicated no delays or complicated timelines: he would be in paradise "today."  And finally, the word paradise conveys an image of a place of peace, rest, and joy.  For those with faith in Jesus, life after death will be an eternal gift from God, based on God's love expressed through Jesus on the cross.  We do not have to 'earn' this gift; we merely receive it by faith, as did the thief on the cross.

               

Won't you receive Jesus' offer of eternal life today?  Trust in him, and live forever!

 

Your support is invaluable in spreading our ministry's message. By sharing our podcasts, you help build a strong community of believers. e appreciate your contributions and encourage you to inspire others to join our mission. Your involvement keeps our community connected and thriving.

 

Your financial support is the backbone of our ministry, funding outreach, facility upkeep, and resources. Your generosity fuels our mission, making a real impact. Give here: https://firstbaptistofindependence.aware3.net/give/

 

Stay updated by downloading our App: https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or liking our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/. These platforms keep you engaged and connected.

 

Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to this journey with you—see you next week!

The Lat Words of Jesus: Father, Forgive Them

I recently read through an online discussion regarding God's forgiveness.  The format was simple:  The question posed was:  According to Christianity, will criminals like rapists, serial killers, and school shooters go to Heaven if they ask God for forgiveness before dying?"  Predictably, the answers and opinions varied widely!

           

Here are a few examples of the hundreds of responses given:

 

"If someone sincerely repents  of their sins, they are forgiven."

 

"Asking for forgiveness" isn't enough; they must repent in their heart – their core, and be changed.  God sees through BS.  But yes, they can change."

 

"Yeah, but it's not that simple." 

 

Many more posted a 'traditional' approach to forgiveness –  "If you confess your sins to God and repent, you will be forgiven."  At the same time, though, some gave the opposite response:

           

"It sounds like the opposite of justice to give rapists and murderers and get out of jail free care, yet good people who don't believe in God will be tortured for eternity in hell.  This is not good, moral, or justice."

           

"I hope not."

           

"Absolutely no criminals deserve to see Satan forever that is a terrible falsehood."

           

It is obvious from these responses that, for many people, their ideas of forgiveness are based upon their emotions or reactions to another's actions instead of biblical teaching!  Importantly, the Bible teaches us the eternal truths of God, especially regarding the correct understanding of forgiveness.  Here is just one passage from the words of Jesus that should be allowed to influence the common understanding of forgiveness:  "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing." Luke 23:34  Jesus said these words as he hung on the cross, not long before his death.   Jesus had been lied about, arrested and beaten, and now nailed to the cross, a reputed 'criminal'!  But as he hung there, his lifeblood draining out of him, he prayed to God that those involved would be forgiven.  This simple prayer, "Father, forgive them," can give us profound insight into the forgiveness that comes from God.

 

First,  the forgiveness that comes from God is based upon God's character.  The Bible teaches us that "God is love," and Jesus offering forgiveness to those who hung him on the cross demonstrates the type of selfless, "agape" love from God.  It is more than mere emotion; it is a commitment to another's well-being.

 

Another truth from these words of Jesus is that God's love is unlimited and retroactive.  Jesus prayed for God to forgive them all, regardless of their situation.  They were unrepentant, some were Jews, and others were Romans, but it did not matter – Jesus prayed for all of them, no questions asked!

 

Finally, God's forgiveness is forever; as the Psalmist said, "As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us." 103:12

                       

God loves us and has directed Jesus to deliver a message of absolute forgiveness to all humanity; this is the reason for the message of the cross!  God loves us, Jesus prays for us, and as we respond to his offer of salvation, he forgives us and cleanses us from sin.

           

Let me encourage you to follow Jesus and receive the forgiveness that comes from God; you can be made new and start over in this life!

 

Your support is invaluable in spreading our ministry's message. By sharing our videos, you help build a strong community of believers. e appreciate your contributions and encourage you to inspire others to join our mission. Your involvement keeps our community connected and thriving.

 

Your financial support is the backbone of our ministry, funding outreach, facility upkeep, and resources. Your generosity fuels our mission, making a real impact. Give here: https://firstbaptistofindependence.aware3.net/give/

 

Stay updated by downloading our App: https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or liking our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/. These platforms keep you engaged and connected.

 

Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to this journey with you—see you next week!

Nothing But the Blood

I often think of one of my favorite hymns, that goes like this:

 

What can wash away my sin?"  with a refrain, "Nothing but the blood of Jesus."

 

The song is simple yet profound in its meaning—the blood of Jesus, shed on the cross, is God's way of washing away the guilt and stain of sin in our lives!

 

In one of the Apostle Paul's letters to the church at Corinth, he spoke on the issue of the blood of Jesus.  Here is some of what he said: 

 

18 For the word of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved, it is the power of God. 19 For it is written: "I will destroy the wisdom of the wise And the understanding of those who have understanding, I will confound."

 

20 Where is the wise person? Here is the scribe. Here is the debater of this age: as God did not make foolish the wisdom of the world? 21 For since in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not come to know God, God was pleased through the foolishness of the message preached to save those who believe. 22 For indeed Jews ask for signs and Greeks search for wisdom; 23 but we preach Christ crucified, to Jews a stumbling block, and to Gentiles foolishness, 24 but to those who are the called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God.

 

Paul explained that the wisdom of God, as manifested through the Cross of Christ, was a "stumbling block" to the Jews, and the Gentiles as well.  On the cross, Jesus, the Son of God, shed his blood for us. Through his death and resurrection, God worked to cleanse us of the guilt of sin, pay the penalty of the sin of humanity, and, finally, conquer death for us all.  This is the Gospel message!   It is all based upon the work of Jesus on the cross; His blood, shed for us on the cross, is God's plan to save humanity.

           

The Jews resist this message, because it means that their religious experiences and rituals, and their lineage as the 'people of God,' cannot save them.  Too,  the Gentiles rebel against the message of the cross, because the wisdom of this world, and the accomplishments of man, cannot separate them from the guilt of their sin.  Only the message of the cross can save anyone!

 

Modern man has a problem when confronted with talk of the "blood of Jesus;"  that sort of talk seems so outdated and barbaric!  However, this is the wisdom of God that guides us, invites God's power to work in our lives, and enables us to live in a relationship with God, both now and in the life that is to come.

 

Here is another passage from the Apostle Paul, this time from his letter to the church at Rome.  "But God demonstrates his own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.  Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from the wrath of God through Him.  Romans 5:8-9

 

 Let us all accept this wisdom that is from God, and live!

 

Your support is invaluable in spreading our ministry's message. By sharing our podcasts, you help build a strong community of believers. e appreciate your contributions and encourage you to inspire others to join our mission. Your involvement keeps our community connected and thriving.

 

Your financial support is the backbone of our ministry, funding outreach, facility upkeep, and resources. Your generosity fuels our mission, making a real impact. Give here: https://firstbaptistofindependence.aware3.net/give/

 

Stay updated by downloading our App: https://a3a.me/firstbaptistofindependence or liking our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/1stBaptist/. These platforms keep you engaged and connected.

 

Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to this journey with you—see you next week!

Evangelism: A Chance to Follow Jesus

It is sometimes hard to follow Jesus!

 

In the book of Acts in the Bible, we find a record of events in the early Church. One story, found in chapter 16, tells of an episode in the life of Paul the Apostle and his associate Silas.  These two preachers of the Gospel were traveling through the city of Philippi, and they were being followed by a group of men who 'owned' a slave girl who had a spirit of divination.  This young girl followed Paul and Silas for days, shouting to anyone who would hear, "These men are bondservants of the Most High God, who are proclaiming to you the way of salvation."  At first, this did not cause a problem. Still, she was so insistent and intrusive that Paul finally stopped her and cast out the Spirit of divination, driving her to speak.  Her owners were enraged, of course, because their slave girl could no longer service and entertain the crowds that she gathered, which had been bringing in quite a bit of income.  The girl's owner got the law involved, and Paul and Silas were arrested, beaten,  and thrown into prison.       

 

Later that night, around midnight, Paul and Silas were singing hymns and shouting praise to God, worshiping Him.  The other prisoners were enjoying the music, and in the middle of this impromptu 'concert,' the ground began shaking, the jail walls trembled, the shackles fell off their bodies, and the jail cell door came open.  The jailer was roused from his sleep and, when he saw that the prisoners were free, took up his sword to kill himself.  (The penalty for failure in the Roman army was death!)  Paul cried out to him, "Do yourself no harm, for we are all here!"  The jailer rushed in with a lantern, fell at their feet, and, seeing them free and standing, spoke these eternal words, "Sirs, what must I do to be saved?"  The answer to his question was simple and life-changing:  "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you shall be saved, you and your household."  16:31  The jailer took them to his house to meet his family, and they all received the Gospel and became baptized believers in the Church!

           

This story exposes us to a few of the tremendous truths of God's message of salvation in Jesus:

 

First, God wants everyone to be saved!  Paul and Silas were on a mission to spread the Gospel message to anyone who would listen, Jew and Gentile alike.  God loves everyone and can save anyone who might call upon Jesus for forgiveness and salvation.  Another truth is simple: Any follower of Jesus can lead others to know Christ as Savior.  Paul was not a "priest" in the formal sense of the word; he was merely a believer in Jesus and could lead the jailer and his family to faith.  Another truth that might not be so welcomed is that following Jesus may bring hardship and suffering into one's life! Paul and Silas simply preached a message of love and forgiveness. They led the jailer and his family to know Christ as Savior.  However, those in power stood against the Gospel message and beat and imprisoned them both.  God delivered them, to be sure, but this was not a pleasant experience for these two preachers!

           

This story from Acts 16 is one of many in the Bible that explains Jesus' life-saving message. Jesus came and lived, died, and lived again for everyone.  Like the jailer, we can be saved by inviting Jesus into our hearts and committing our lives to follow him.  Let me encourage you to follow Him today!

 

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