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Welcome:

We can get so caught up in the daily details of living that we begin to wonder sometimes if God is working at all. In today’s episode, we really see God working in some interesting ways that might just serve as a reminder to us of what God is doing and how He's doing it in all sorts of situations.

Introduction:

The story involves three different encounters they had with three different groups of people. First, there is Lydia, a seller of purple. Then, there is this interesting young slave girl who is demon-possessed and follows Paul around. Finally, there is the most famous story, one of those classic Bible stories—the Philippian jailer.

Episode Outline:

1. Lydia’s Conversion:
   • Scripture Reading: Acts 16:11-15
   • Paul, Silas, Timothy, and Luke travel from Troas to Philippi, a leading Roman colony.
   • They find a group of women praying by the river, including Lydia, a worshiper of God and a seller of purple cloth.
   • God opens Lydia’s heart to respond to Paul’s message. She and her household are baptized, and she offers her home to Paul and his companions.
2. The Slave Girl and Paul’s Annoyance:
   • Scripture Reading: Acts 16:16-24
   • A slave girl with a spirit of divination follows Paul and his companions, proclaiming their mission.
   • Paul, annoyed, commands the spirit to leave her, and she is delivered.
   • Her owners, angered by the loss of their income, drag Paul and Silas before the magistrates, who have them beaten and imprisoned.
3. The Philippian Jailer’s Conversion:
   • Scripture Reading: Acts 16:25-40
   • At midnight, Paul and Silas pray and sing hymns in prison, despite their suffering.
   • A violent earthquake opens the prison doors and loosens their chains.
   • The jailer, fearing the prisoners have escaped, prepares to kill himself. Paul reassures him that all prisoners are still there.
   • The jailer asks, "What must I do to be saved?" Paul responds, "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household."
   • The jailer and his household believe, are baptized, and rejoice in their newfound faith.
   • The magistrates order Paul and Silas to be released, but Paul insists they be escorted out publicly to acknowledge their wrongful treatment as Roman citizens.

Key Points:

• The conversion of Lydia highlights God’s work in opening hearts to the gospel and the resulting generosity that comes from faith.
• The deliverance of the slave girl shows God’s power over spiritual oppression and the liberation it brings.
• The dramatic events in the prison emphasize the importance of faith in Jesus Christ for salvation and the profound impact it has on entire households.

Conclusion:

In each of these encounters, we see God actively working through Paul and his companions to bring about His will. Whether it’s through opening hearts, delivering from demonic oppression, or dramatically saving a jailer and his household, God’s hand is evident. As we reflect on these stories, let’s be encouraged to look for God’s work

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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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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

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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

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Jeremy McCandless is creating podcasts and devotional resources | Patreon

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

Welcome back to another episode of The Biblle Project daily Podcast. I'm excited to have you with us today as we explore a pivotal moment in the history of the early church. In today's episode, titled "The Most Important Decision in the History of the Church," we will be diving into Acts 15:1-35, commonly known as the Jerusalem Council.

Throughout history, the church has faced numerous disputes, some minor and some major, that have shaped its course. The dispute we will examine today is one of the most significant, as it determined the future direction of Christianity itself. Understanding this dispute and the decision made at the Jerusalem Council is crucial for grasping the essence of New Testament Christianity and its implications for our lives today.

Join me as we delve into this fascinating and transformative chapter in church history. Let's discover how the early church leaders addressed the question of whether Gentile converts needed to adhere to the Mosaic Law, and how their decision continues to impact our faith and practice.

Episode Notes for "The Most Important Decision in the History of the Church":

Episode Title: The Most Important Decision in the History of the Church
Scripture Reference: Acts 15:1-35

Key Points:

1. The Dispute:
   • Certain individuals from Judea taught that Gentiles must be circumcised to be saved.
   • Paul and Barnabas strongly disagreed, leading to a significant debate.
2. The Jerusalem Council:
   • Paul, Barnabas, and other believers were sent to Jerusalem to consult the apostles and elders.
   • Peter, Barnabas, Paul, and James spoke at the council, emphasizing God's work among the Gentiles and the fulfillment of prophecy.
3. The Decision:
   • The council decided that Gentile converts did not need to be circumcised.
   • A letter was sent to the Gentile believers, advising them to abstain from practices associated with idolatry and immorality.
4. Impact on Christianity:
   • The decision affirmed that salvation is by faith alone in Christ alone.
   • It emphasized the inclusive nature of the gospel and laid the foundation for the global spread of Christianity.

Reflection:

Understanding the events of Acts 15 helps us appreciate the inclusive nature of the gospel and the foundational principle that salvation is through grace, not legalistic observance. This decision continues to influence how we live our lives as Christians today, reminding us to prioritize faith and love in our interactions with others.

Discussion Questions:

1. Why was the dispute about circumcision and adherence to the Mosaic Law so significant for the early church?
2. How did the decision of the Jerusalem Council shape the future of Christianity?
3. What can we learn from the council's approach to resolving disputes within the church?

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

I'm so glad you are joining us today. In this episode, we're diving into Acts 14:1-28 with a focus on a timely and important topic: "Don’t Get Discouraged."

Life is full of challenges, and sometimes we face discouragement in various aspects of our lives. But through the story of Paul and Barnabas, we can find strength and encouragement to persevere. Let's explore how we can stay strong in our faith and find courage even in the toughest times.

Episode Notes:

Episode Summary: In this episode, we delve into Acts 14, where Paul and Barnabas face significant opposition and challenges during their missionary journey. Despite the trials, they demonstrate remarkable perseverance and faith, offering valuable lessons on dealing with discouragement.

Key Points:

• Facing Discouragement: Life can get difficult, and discouragement can affect all areas of life, including relationships and work. Within the church, discouragement can also creep in. How should we respond?
• Paul and Barnabas' Journey: During their first missionary journey, Paul and Barnabas faced intense opposition, yet they persevered. Their journey through Iconium, Lystra, and Derbe was filled with both triumphs and trials, showing their commitment to their mission.
• Miracles and Misunderstandings: In Lystra, Paul healed a man crippled from birth, leading the locals to mistakenly worship Paul and Barnabas as gods. Their reaction to this incident teaches us about humility and the importance of directing glory to God.
• Enduring Through Trials: Despite being stoned and left for dead, Paul continued his mission, demonstrating the power of steadfast faith. His message to new believers was clear: expect trials, but remain steadfast.
• Encouragement in Hard Times: Paul and Barnabas appointed elders in each church, ensuring support and leadership for the new believers. Their return to Antioch of Syria marked the completion of their journey, where they reported all that God had done.

Practical Takeaways:

1. Expect Problems: Challenges are a part of life, and expecting them can help us prepare and respond better.
2. Endure and Minister: Perseverance in the face of adversity is crucial. Use your experiences to minister to others who may face similar challenges.
3. Seek Courage: When discouraged, seek the courage that only faith can provide. Look to examples like Paul, who faced incredible trials yet continued his mission.
4. Trust in God: Rely on God's strength and trust in His plan, even when the path is difficult.

Remember, when you get discouraged, you need courage. Let's draw inspiration from Paul and Barnabas and stay committed to our calling.

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Dear Listeners and Friends

As we approach this joyous season of Christmas, I want to take a moment to extend my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you. Your support, prayers, and faithful listening have been a tremendous blessing to me and this ministry throughout the year.

Christmas is a time of great celebration and reflection on the incredible gift of Jesus Christ, who many of us consider our Savior. In Luke 2:10-11, we are reminded of the angel's proclamation: Which said

“'Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Saviour has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.'"

This message of great joy is the foundation of our faith and the reason we celebrate this season with such enthusiasm.

I pray that this Christmas, your hearts will be filled with the joy of the Lord. May you experience the profound peace that comes from knowing Him, as Jesus Himself said in John 14:27,

"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."

In a world often filled with uncertainty, His peace is a precious gift.

Christmas is also a time for love, reflecting on the love that many of us experience in our families, a love that God showed us by sending His Son to earth. As 1 John 4:9-10 beautifully states

"This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins."

May you feel the warmth of His love surrounding you and your loved ones this season.

Thank you for being a part of this journey, for listening to the podcast, for sharing it with others, and for your continued encouragement. Your support has been invaluable, and it is because of you that we are able to continue spreading the amazing story of God salvation plan for humankind and the good news of Jesus Christ.

With heartfelt thanks I wish you and your families a blessed and Merry Christmas filled with love, joy, and peace.

Thanks for being with me.

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This is an edited version of a special update first posted to my Patreon community on the 15th December 2024

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Help us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.
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