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Welcome

Today we’ll be examining Acts 16:1-10 to understand the decisions made by the Apostle Paul and how they can guide us in our own decision-making processes. Was Paul really inconsistent, or is there something deeper at play? Let's find out together.

Episode Notes:

Introduction

• Have you ever been accused of being inconsistent?
• Even the Apostle Paul faced accusations of inconsistency.
• The focus of today’s episode is on Paul’s decision regarding circumcision, an act some view as his big mistake.

Key Points

1. Paul's Decision to Circumcise Timothy
   • Timothy’s background: Jewish mother, Greek father.
   • Paul circumcised Timothy to avoid hindrances in ministry among Jews.
   • The decision was strategic, not a compromise of the gospel.
2. Practical Decision-Making
   • Importance of removing barriers to the gospel.
   • Sometimes practical decisions are necessary for the greater mission.
3. Guidance by the Holy Spirit
   • Paul and companions were directed by the Holy Spirit.
   • God's guidance can sometimes mean closed doors, leading to new opportunities.

Application to Our Lives

• Making Good Decisions
  • Combine practical wisdom with spiritual discernment.
  • Keep the mission of the gospel at the forefront.
• Spiritual Growth Pattern
  • Trust Christ.
  • Grow in Christ.
  • Serve Christ in that order.

Paul's Strategy

• Adapt customs to reach different groups without compromising faith.
• Example from 1 Corinthians 9:19-22: Becoming all things to all people to save some.

Importance of Teaching and Strengthening Churches

• Acts 16:4-5: Churches strengthened in faith and grew in numbers.

Following God’s Will

• Detours are not disasters but can be God’s way of directing us to greater opportunities.
• Trusting God’s plan even when it seems counterintuitive.

Conclusion

• Paul's decision-making was based on God’s will and wisdom.
• Seek God’s will through His Word and apply practical wisdom.
• Detours in life can lead to unexpected blessings and align with God’s greater plan.

Thank you for joining me today I this episode has provided valuable insights into making godly decisions and trusting in God’s perfect plan. Stay tuned for more episodes where we continue to explore the rich truths of the Bible and their application to our lives.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

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Jeremy McCandless is creating podcasts and devotional resources | Patreon

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Dear Listeners, Dear Friend, and Patrons

As we stand at the threshold of a new year, I want to take a moment to extend my deepest gratitude to each of you. Your support, prayers, and faithful listening have been the backbone of this ministry, and I couldn't have done this without you.

The start of a new year brings with it a sense of renewal and hope. It’s offers us a chance to reflect on the past year and look forward with confidence and joy to what God has in store for us.

In Philippians 3:13-14, the Apostle Paul encourages us,

"Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus."

As we embark on this new journey, let's be thankful for what God has done and leave behind past regrets and move forward with a renewed sense of purpose and determination.

God’s Word is filled with promises that give us the assurance we need to face the future. Here are just three powerful promises to hold on to as we step into the new year:

1. God’s Presence: In Joshua 1:9, God reassures us of His constant presence: "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." No matter what challenges or opportunities come our way, we can face them with confidence knowing that God is always with us.
2. God’s Strength: Isaiah 40:31 reminds us of the strength we receive from the Lord: "But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not be faint." As we rely on Him, we are empowered to overcome any obstacle and fulfil the purposes He has for us.
3. God’s Provision: Philippians 4:19 assures us of God's provision for all our needs: "And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus." As we trust in His abundant provision, we can move forward without fear, knowing that He will supply everything we need for the journey ahead.

As we continue in our journey of faith together, I am filled with hope and anticipation for what God will do through this ministry in the coming year. Thank you for being a part of this incredible journey. Your prayers, encouragement, and support have been instrumental, and I am grateful beyond words.

Let’s embrace this new year with confidence and joy, trusting in God’s promises and looking forward to the wonderful plans He has for each of us.

Wishing you a blessed and prosperous New Year. With gratitude and hope, bye for now and God bless, Jeremy

Support the show

Jeremy McCandless is creating podcasts and devotional resources | Patreon

Help us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.
https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.com

Send us a text

For an ad-free version of the podcast plus the opportunity to enjoy hours of exclusive content and two bonus episodes a month and also help keep the Bible Project Daily Podcast free for listeners everywhere at;
patreon.com/JeremyMcCandless

Subscribe here to receive my new church history podcast every few weeks at.
https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.com

Welcome

In today's episode, I look into an important turn of events in the early—a story that reminds us that even godly people can experience sharp disagreements. How should we handle such conflicts? Join us as we learn from the lives of Paul and Barnabas in Acts 15:36-41, and discover how to navigate disagreements in a way that honours God and furthers His mission.

Episode Notes:

Introduction

We all differ physically, culturally, and spiritually. Even deeply committed Christians can have sharp disagreements. Paul and Barnabas, early church leaders and ministry partners, had a significant conflict over John Mark, recorded in Acts 15:36-41.

Key Points

1. Conflict Among Believers: Disagreements are inevitable, even among godly people.
2. Handling Conflict:
   • Background: Paul and Barnabas shared a deep bond and history of ministry.
   • Disagreement Over John Mark: Barnabas wanted to give him a second chance; Paul did not trust him due to past failure.
   • Result: They parted ways to continue their respective ministries.
3. Lessons from the Conflict:
   • Believers Will Disagree: Disagreements are normal.
   • Conflict Can Lead to Growth: Handled correctly, it can open new ministry opportunities.
   • Respecting Different Perspectives: Both Paul and Barnabas had valid points.
   • Reconciliation: Paul later reconciled with John Mark, showing no lingering bitterness.
4. Paul and Barnabas' Disagreement:
   • Human Imperfection: Even spiritual leaders have flaws and disagreements.
   • Different Approaches: Barnabas focused on individual care; Paul on the mission’s overall impact.
   • Handling Disagreement: The key is in how we handle disagreements, focusing on the mission and seeking reconciliation.
5. Strengthening the Church:
   • Education and Discipleship: Paul and Silas strengthened churches through teaching the Word.
   • Importance of Instruction: Strengthening believers comes from solid biblical teaching, not just inspiration.
6. Paul and Barnabas' Compromise:
   • Separating Amicably: They parted ways not in anger but to continue their mission effectively.
   • Focus on Mission: Their decision allowed the Gospel to spread to more places.

Conclusion

• Godly Compromise: When godly people differ, they should seek a God-honoring compromise.
• Essentials vs. Non-Essentials: Compromise on non-essent

Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

Support the show

Jeremy McCandless is creating podcasts and devotional resources | Patreon

Help us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.
https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.com