Awake Us Now

Awake Us Now is an online ministry sharing the message of God’s love through Jesus Christ, His Son. We have modeled our ministry after the early Acts Church and meet together in home groups. Using live broadcast and on demand video, we worship together each Sunday as one voice of praise and prayer across America. Through pertinent and vibrant teaching, we grow in faith and are encouraged to live each day in the power of the Holy Spirit that comes from a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Our ministry has a heart to see revival breakout across America and we look forward to Christ's return.

Christmas Eve Message 12/24/2025

Kings & Prophets: From Solomon to Jeremiah - Week 15 12/23/2025

Kings & Prophets: From Solomon to Jeremiah - Week 15 This is the final week in our study of 400 years of Kings and Prophets from Solomon to Jeremiah. King Josiah • Young King seeks God • Spiritual cleansing of Jerusalem • Book of the Law discovered • Reform beyond Judah • Passover observance - King Josiah gives an order to all people to observe God's Passover. This had not been celebrated according to what was written, not even in the days of the judges, nor in the days of any of the kings of Israel and Judah. Josiah made sure the celebration was carried out according to what was written in the Book of the Covenant. He, like David, was a man after God's own heart. He reads the scriptures and applies them and a time of revival begins. We read in 2 Kings 23:25 "Neither before nor after Josiah was there a king like him who turned to the LORD as he did - with all his heart and with all his soul and with all his strength, in accordance with all the Law of Moses." • Death at Megiddo - A prophetic word comes from Huldah telling Josiah of the judgment that is coming from God against the people, but that because Josiah's heart was repentant he would not see the judgment that would come. During this time there was great international upheaval between Egypt, Assyria, and Babylon. 2 Kings 23:29 "While Josiah was king, Pharaoh Necho king of Egypt went up to the Euphrates River to help the king of Assyria. King Josiah marched out to meet him in battle, but Necho faced him and killed him at Megiddo." Jeremiah and the nation were devastated by the loss of king Josiah. Then Josiah's 3 sons reign. None were the king that their father was. They returned to the old ways for faithlessness to God. Josiah's 3 Sons • Jehoahaz - 2 Kings 23:31-33; 2 Chronicles 36:1-3 - reigned 3 month doing evil in the eyes of the Lord. He was imprisoned by Pharaoh Necho of Egypt, who was the one who had killed his father. Jehoahaz dies in Egypt. • Jehoiakim - 2 Kings 23:34 - 24:7; 2 Chronicles 36:4-8 - reigned 11 years and did evil in the eyes of the Lord. He was an evil and inefficient ruler. Constructed a new palace and Jeremiah denounces him for ignoring the people and ignoring God. Jehoiakim rejects Jeremiah and even burns the first copy of the book of Jeremiah. (Jeremiah 36:23) The city of Jerusalem is overtaken in 605 BC by Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon and many of the people are deported to Babylon. (Daniel was one that was taken - Daniel 1:1-2). When Jehoiakim dies he is given the "burial of a donkey." Jeremiah 22:13-19. Johoiachin, his son reigns for 3 months doing evil like his father and was taken captive by Babylon - 2 Kings 24:8-16; 2 Chronicles 36:9-10 • Zedekiah - 2 Kings 24:17 - 25:21; 2 Chronicles 36:11-21; Jeremiah 39:1-10 - reigns for 11 years and he did evil in the eyes of the Lord. Zedekiah breaks the treaty with Babylon (Ezekiel 17:18). He looks to Egypt for deliverance but didn't receive any. The false prophets encouraged him in his evil ways. Jeremiah warns Zedekiah of coming suffering and prophecies. But Zedekiah does not change his way and Jerusalem falls to the Babylonians and Zedekiah dies in a tragic way. Jeremiah 39:6-7. And so ends our study with the nation, the city of Jerusalem a the Temple destroyed in 586 B.C. Interestingly enough the Temple would once again be destroyed by the Romans in 70 A.D. in the same month, on the same day. This was a day Jesus predicted because they did not recognize Him and had rejected Him. Now What? Learn about God at https://www.awakeusnow.com EVERYTHING we offer is FREE. View live or on demand: https://www.awakeusnow.com/tuesday-bible-class Join us Sundays https://www.awakeusnow.com/sunday-service Watch via our app. Text HELLO to 888-364-4483 to download our app. /episode/index/show/awakeusnow/id/39469535

The Christmas Story 2 12/23/2025

The Christmas Story 12/22/2025

Questions - Week 11: What About the Virgin Birth? 12/21/2025

Questions - Week 11: What About the Virgin Birth? The message starts with Matthew 1:18 “This is how the birth of Jesus the Messiah came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be pregnant through the Holy Spirit.” Pastor explores today’s question: “What about the Virgin Birth?” by tackling these 5 questions: ⁃ Is the “Virgin Birth” really that important? ⁃ Why do only Matthew and Luke mention it? ⁃ Couldn’t this have been a later development? ⁃ This seems impossible to the modern mind! ⁃ Isn’t it based on pagan mythology? Importance of the Virgin Birth ⁃ It is taught by clear Scripture throughout the Bible. Note: Matthew 1:18 (above) and Matthew 1:22-23 “…an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” ⁃ It is foreshadowed in Genesis 3:15 - a Messiah from the seed of a woman. ⁃ It is announced by angelic authority ⁃ It explains the sinlessness of Christ ⁃ It confirms Christ’s two natures - that Jesus is both fully human - but also fully divine. He is God incarnate, became flesh. His nature shows the Good News, because God loved this world so much He offered up His only Son for each one of us. This is the Good News. Only in Matthew and Luke? ⁃ Only 2 Gospels (Matthew and Luke) mention the Nativity ⁃ John (from the Gospel of John) goes back to the beginning, “In the beginning was the Word and the word was made flesh and dwelt among us…”In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning…” ⁃ Mark repeatedly asserts Jesus’ deity ⁃ See Philippians 2:5 & Colossians 1:15-16 - these verse tell us Jesus was in the very form and nature of God and took on human flesh, died and rose. Makes it clear that God has come down to earth in the flesh and that the universe was created by the pre-incarnate Christ. A later development? ⁃ Early dating of the New Testament - always been a part of the testimony from eye-witnesses ⁃ Clearly taught by early authors (examples: writings by Ignatius of Antioch, Justin Martyr, and the great scholar Irenaeus,) ⁃ Testimony of the early Christian Creeds - the virgin birth was from the early teaching of followers. Impossible for modern people to accept this? ⁃ The ancients weren’t gullible! Even Joseph didn’t accept it until the angelic visit. ⁃ The real issue is the miraculous. “If I haven’t seen a miracle, then they don’t happen!” ⁃ God is supernatural! He does supernatural things. Pastor shares some miraculous stories. When we, in our own wisdom, seek to remove and erase the miraculous, we are not proving our brilliance, we are showing, for all the world to see, our folly. Pagan mythology? ⁃ Note the differences! Example the “birth” of Athena from Zeus’ head Pastor closes with a graphic showing: incarnation, virgin birth and deity of Christ stating that if these are true then that changes everything. And it changes each one of us because God loves us and wants us back. He calls us to accept Him for who He really is: The Almighty Creator of the Universe who did not spare His own Son, but gave Him up for each on of us that we might live forever with Him! And THAT is the Good News! Now What? Learn about God at https://www.awakeusnow.com EVERYTHING we offer is FREE. Check out this video series from our website: https://www.awakeusnow.com/whats-the-answer Join us Sundays https://www.awakeusnow.com/sunday-service Watch via our app. Text HELLO to 888-364-4483 to download our app. /episode/index/show/awakeusnow/id/39469445

Rescued by Truth: Week 51 12/20/2025

Two Year Gospel Study Week 103 12/19/2025

Two Year Gospel Study Week 103 The Gospel of John Week 25 Scripture: John 19:25-20:19 Today’s study will take us from the depths of hell to the heights of heaven! We start at verse 25 of John chapter 19 and it starts with who is at the foot of the cross: His mother, His aunt, His cousin (John the author of this gospel) and another aunt who was the wife of His step-father’s brother - all family. The disciples have all run except John and this group of women. Family. Verse 28 we read, ”Later, knowing that everything had now been finished, and so that Scripture would be fulfilled, Jesus said, “I am thirsty.” By saying this Jesus again fulfilled prophecy from Psalm 69:21 and from Psalm 22:15. But also let’s remember what Jesus said in John 18:18 when He told Peter to put his sword away and said, “Will I not drink the cup my Father has given me?” And here we see Jesus drinking the cup because as verse 28 says, He knew that everything had now been finished. He took all the judgement of human sin upon Himself and then verse 30, “When He had received the drink, Jesus said, ‘It is finished.’ And with that He bowed His head and gave up His spirit.” Pastor spends time digging into how the drink was given to Jesus and the correlation between the hyssop plant used at Passover and the hyssop plant used to give Jesus a drink. And we see …. God is in control. Our discussion turns to Jesus as the fulfillment of the Passover Lamb - He is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. Pastor talks about the Greek word for “finished” and its secondary meaning of an accountant’s terminology for a debt “Paid in Full.” Jesus paid in full for every sin, every rebellion against God, everything we have done and ever will do, all paid for in full by the Lord Jesus on the cross. Pastor shares interesting information about what was going on in the Temple at 3pm - the time of Jesus’ death. What he shares emphasizes what Jesus had said earlier, “No one takes my life from me. I have the power to lay it down and the power to take it up again.” And He chooses the exact time when He bows His head and gives up His spirit. It is Friday. The Passover went for 8 days. On the first day of the week, Sunday, following the first Sabbath of Passover (Saturday) the Jewish people celebrated the Festival of First Fruits. And this is the day - Sunday - that Jesus rises from the grave. Paul writes, “He (Jesus) is the first fruits of those who rise from the dead.” Because Jesus rose, He is the guarantee that we will be raised when He returns! As we continue with the story of what John witnessed. A soldier goes to break Jesus’ legs, but He’s already dead so the soldier pierced Jesus’ side with a spear. Pastor shares some medical information and the way the Roman spear was used to give a death blow - aimed right at the heart. Jesus not getting his legs broken and being pierced with a spear all fulfill prophecy and show God is in the details, He is in control, always has been and always is. Next Joseph of Arimathea - a Jesus follower, asks for Jesus’ body. Nicodemus is with Joseph. He brings a mixture of myrrh and aloes, and the two of them wrapped Jesus body with the spices, in strips of linen as was the Jewish burial custom. In a garden there was a new tomb, it was the Jewish day of Preparation and since the tomb was nearby, they laid Jesus there. Pastor shares the possibility that we may know where Jesus was buried. The history surrounding the location and where it can be found today, sharing the information about the current church built on what may be the actual site of Jesus’ tomb. We continue with John 20:1 with several women going to the tomb and finding the stone moved away from the entrance. Mary shares with several disciples and they discover the strips of linen lying there inside along with the cloth that had been wrapped around Jesus’ head. They leave the tomb with many questions. Mary Magdalene comes again to the empty tomb and is crying outside it and she looks in the tomb and there are two angels and then she meets a man she thinks is the gardener, and then recognizes Him as Jesus! Jesus is alive! He is risen from the grave! Jesus tells her to tell the others. She goes and tells the others the news, “I have seen the Lord!” Our website – https://www.awakeusnow.com Watch the video from our website! https://www.awakeusnow.com/2-year-study-of-the-gospels-upper Watch the video from our YouTube Channel!! https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLTaaqrC3dMOzMkhPyiNWwlJRpV6Bwpu01 ⁃ The Gospel of John study is part five of five of our Two Year Study of the Gospels. ⁃ The Gospel of John may be one of the most powerful books ever written. Many people have come to faith after reading only this book of the Bible. Scholarly and archeological discoveries in recent decades give us new insight on details in the Gospel of John. We can now understand it as the most Jewish rather than the most “Gentile/Greek” of the Gospels, and when we do that we see many things that we missed before. Our 2 year study of the gospels is great for large group, small group or home group study and can be started at any time! /episode/index/show/awakeusnow/id/37646275

Christmas: The Great Good News! 12/19/2025

Christmas: The Great Good News! Scripture: Luke 2: 1-20 The Christmas Story is familiar to most of us - a story we’ve heard over and over, year after year. When something becomes so familiar we can easily be deceived into treating it too casually without the awe and gratitude this story should cause in our hearts. Familiarity can cause us to forget this is a REAL story, with REAL people and our REAL Savior. So let’s look at this very familiar story in Luke 2:1-20 with new eyes and new ears and new hearts. May we experience and receive THE GREAT GOOD NEWS as the best gift ever given. As Pastor reads the Christmas Story he shares insights about the location of where Jesus was born, and other interesting historical information, even specific insights into the shepherds in the fields and the intended use of their lambs. Mary and Jospeph arrive in Bethlehem for a census, Jesus is born, and then the angels announce the Great Good News to the shepherds. When the angels broke through the skies the shepherds went from experiencing great fear at the appearance of the angels to great joy because of the Great Good News they were told. “You will find the Babe wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” The Shepherds hurried off to find Jesus - an encouragement for us, too! Have you found Him? That is our prayer, that you find and know Jesus for The Great Good News has come, Jesus the Messiah! The host of angels fills the sky above the shepherds singing, “Glory to God in the Highest!” Praising God in this Christmas season is a calling to us as well. Let us hurry to find Him, seek Him and adore Him. The shepherds’ desire to find Jesus is to be our attitude too. Let this familiar story touch your heart in new ways this Christmas. After seeing baby Jesus in the manger the shepherds spread the story about what the angels had told them and about the baby they met. May we also, like them, share the Great Good News of a Savior. The Great Good News is: ⁃ Real - this really happened, this is true. There is overwhelming evidence from both believers and skeptics that the Messiah is real. ⁃ Risen - He is risen and this victory is ours. ⁃ Returning - the reality is that He is returning. He is coming back - we have a forever life ahead of us! ⁃ Response - God loved us so much He was willing to take on human flesh, live the perfect life we could not, willingly give Himself for us on the cross in a most inhumane way as the sacrifice for our sins. Then He rose victorious from the grave….THAT demands a response! One of repentance and belief. A response of receiving the Great Good News by walking with Him, following Him, surrendering to Him and watching what He will do. Receive Him today as your Savior! The Christmas story is not simply a story of our culture - it is the story of God’s love to each one of us. https://www.awakeusnow.com Check out the video on our website https://www.awakeusnow.com/the-greats Check out the video on Youtube https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLTaaqrC3dMOwOsas957DiSUd6oyPPusju&si=aF1BhWGvhZyBvUVi Watch via our app. Text HELLO to 888-364-4483 to download our app. /episode/index/show/awakeusnow/id/34562745

Advent - Week 3: The Great Revelation 12/18/2025

Advent - Week 3: The Great Revelation Scripture: Matthew 1:18-25, Micah 6:8 Being in the Scripture is a great place to be because God DOES speak in His Word, both 2,000 years ago and today! Today’s text from the Bible is a powerful Word, a life-changing Word… Matthew tells the Christmas story from the vantage point of Joseph, who after finding out about Mary being pregnant decided to divorce her quietly, but… Joseph receives a visit by an angel in a dream and the angel tells him that he is not to divorce Mary, that she is pregnant by the Holy Spirit, and that he is to name the child Jesus because He will save His people from their sins. Following the dream, Joseph stays engaged to Mary, doesn’t consummate the marriage until after Jesus’ birth, and he names the baby, Jesus. A virgin birth is implausible if there is no god. But there IS a god! He is the God who reveals Himself in the Scripture and through His Holy Spirit and like in today’s reading, through angelic beings. What prophets predicted, is fulfilled in the Person of Jesus of Nazareth. Immanuel: God with us. Fully human: suffers as our substitute for our sin Fully God: eternal redemption by His blood Apart from Christ our lives hold no hope. No matter how good we are it’s not good enough. We cannot save ourselves for we have all sinned and we need the Perfect One to save us. Apart from Jesus - nice guys finish last. With Jesus there is life, forgiveness, peace, strength, joy, hope and the assurance we will live forever with Him. Today’s Bible story still speaks powerfully to us today. God revealed the identity of Jesus to Joseph - and for us God is still speaking and revealing His identity to each of us through Joseph’s story. In Joseph we see an example of what a godly person ought to be: ⁃ Our faith is based on the truth that God has revealed to us in His Word ⁃ Our faith is more than head knowledge ⁃ Our faith informs our behavior Joseph’s example: ⁃ Faithful to God’s Word and wanted to live for God. He knew God is to be trusted, honored and obeyed. ⁃ Merciful in a culture that looked at Mary’s pregnancy as a disgrace, that recommended a public divorce, Joseph did not want to humiliate Mary. ⁃ Obedient to what God revealed in his dream and also obedient to the Word in the Bible of “the virgin will conceive and bare a son” and so he took her as his wife. ⁃ Courageous individual who put family first and God over all. An individual who did what God told him to do despite pushback and persecution. He understood that it is more important to follow God than to worry about public opinion. Joseph wasn’t saved because he was a good man. He was a good man because He was saved. So we too are encouraged to live lives as a response to the incredible gift of the grace and goodness of God in Christ. Micah 6:8 says: He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. May we exhibit that kind of a life-style in response to the revelation of who our Lord Jesus Christ is. Lord Jesus help us live courageous lives for You! https://www.awakeusnow.com Check out the video on our website https://www.awakeusnow.com/the-greats Check out the video on Youtube https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLTaaqrC3dMOwOsas957DiSUd6oyPPusju&si=aF1BhWGvhZyBvUVi Watch via our app. Text HELLO to 888-364-4483 to download our app. /episode/index/show/awakeusnow/id/34444750

Advent - Week 1: The Great Awakening 12/17/2025

Advent - Week 1: The Great Awakening First Sunday in Advent - The Great Awakening Scripture: Luke 1:5-25 and Malachi 4:5-6a The season of Advent is a time we prepare to celebrate that Jesus came, but it is also a time we eagerly anticipate that He will return! When asked about the Great Awakening, people most often mention the The Great Awakening of the 1700s, an awakening that fundamentally changed what would become the United States of America, and imparted America’s destiny and the make up of our country. But THE Great Awakening Pastor refers to today is the one that far out strips the awakening in the 1700s. This is THE Great Awakening that started just over 2000 years ago! And it has completely changed the world! Pastor suggests that it began in Luke chapter 1 verse 5, that THE Great Awakening began with Zechariah and Elizabeth’s story. In the Gospel of Luke chapter 1 verses 5-25 we read the story of the coming one who would prepare the way for the Promised One, the Savior, the Messiah. The Great Awakening 1. Started with Zechariah - the priest 2. His son, John, would prepare the way for the coming of Jesus 3. Jesus Christ - the Messiah, our Savior who is coming back and the One who sent out disciples to the nations is the message of THE Great Awakening. 4. The message of Jesus spread throughout all Israel 5. Then the message of Jesus went to the Gentile world 6. And then all of Israel - the final step of the Great Awakening - is when the Jewish people return to faith in Jesus the Messiah. Zechariah doubted what the angel was telling him, and yet, God came through with everything the angel announced and in Christ, God fulfilled every promise of a Savior. Zechariah's story serves as a reminder of the faithfulness of God even amidst doubt. During this season of Advent we joyfully prepare for Christmas and celebrating Jesus’ birth and we also focus our hearts and minds on the anticipation of His return. Let us also be encouraged to pray by the power of the Holy Spirit for THE Great Awakening to overwhelm the Jewish people in coming to a knowledge of Jesus the Messiah, their Savior, the Promised One. https://www.awakeusnow.com Check out the video on our website https://www.awakeusnow.com/living-one Check out the video on Youtube https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLTaaqrC3dMOwUarSm3uJrzLI4thAJNXQj Watch via our app. Text HELLO to 888-364-4483 to download our app. /episode/index/show/awakeusnow/id/34119721

Kings & Prophets: From Solomon to Jeremiah - Week 14 12/16/2025

Kings & Prophets: From Solomon to Jeremiah - Week 14 Last week we ended our study time looking at a great king of Judah, Hezekiah. Today we start with one of the worst kings of Judah, Manasseh, Hezekiah’s son. Manasseh reigned from 697-642 B.C. His story is found in 2 Kings 21:1-18 and 2 Chronicles 33:1-20. Manasseh reigned 55 years. He reigned longer than any other king and did more damage than any other king. He did evil in God’s eyes. It is a disgusting and tragic story. He destroys everything good his father had done. King Manasseh ⁃ Apostasy and Idolatry - 2 Chronicles 33:33 ⁃ Sacrificed his children - 2 Chronicles 33:6 ⁃ Innocent blood shed including the blood of prophets - 2 Kings 21:16. (Hebrews 11:37 - ancient Jewish tradition that says it was during Manasseh’s reign that Isaiah was sawn in half by Manasseh) ⁃ Captivity in Babylon - Manasseh was taken prisoner by Assyria and taken to Babylon - 2 Chronicles 33:11 ⁃ Repentance and return to Judah- while in prison Manasseh had a change of heart, humbling himself greatly before God and praying. The Lord was moved by his entreaty and listened to his plea; so God brought Manasseh back to Jerusalem and to his kingdom, proving to Manasseh that He is the true God - 2 Chronicles 33:12-13 What we learn: God is a gracious God and hears the cries of those who humble themselves before Him. He responds to a repentant heart. In the final years of his life, Manasseh worked to redo things but to no avail as his son, King Amon takes the throne. Amon reigned from 642-640 B.C. and his story is found in 2 Kings 21:19-26 and 2 Chronicles 33:21-25. Amon did evil in the eyes of the Lord. King Amon ⁃ Return to idolatry - 2 Chronicles 33:22-23 ⁃ Conspiracy and Assassination - 2 Chronicles 33:24-25 - Josiah, Amon’s son was then made king. King Josiah Josiah is just a boy when he begins his 31 year reign and in Pastor’s opinion, the greatest king of Judah. Josiah reigned from 640-609 B.C. His story is found in 2 Kings 22:1-23:30 and 2 Chronicles 34-35. During his reign there were many prophets: Jeremiah, Zephaniah, Nahum, Habakkuk and Huldah. God is working to bring the nation back to Himself. During King Josiah’s reign, Judah experienced three of its happiest decades: peace, prosperity and revival. King Josiah ⁃ Young King seeks the God of David - he followed in the ways of David - 2 Kings 22:1-2 and 2 Chronicles 34:3 ⁃ Spiritual cleansing of Jerusalem - 2 Chronicles 34:4-5 ⁃ Book of the Law of God written by Moses (possibly the original Torah) is discovered - 2 Chronicles 34:8, 2 Chronicles 34:14, 2 Chronicles 34:19, 2 Chronicles 34:22. In 2 Chronicles 34:27 we read of Huldah who tells the king that God says that judgment is coming, but because he (Josiah) had humbled himself before God, wept and torn his robes, that Josiah will not live to see the destruction. Josiah recognizes the Lord’s graciousness and he sets forth to bring revival. ⁃ Revival happens 2 Kings 23:2-3 - God’s people pledge themselves to the covenant of God. ⁃ Revival and reform go beyond Judah - 2 Kings 23:15, 17 Josiah was a bright, brilliant, incredible and godly leader, a man bold in his faith and one who trusted God. May we learn from his example. Now What? Learn about God at https://www.awakeusnow.com EVERYTHING we offer is FREE. View live or on demand: https://www.awakeusnow.com/tuesday-bible-class Join us Sundays https://www.awakeusnow.com/sunday-service Watch via our app. Text HELLO to 888-364-4483 to download our app. /episode/index/show/awakeusnow/id/39395190

Advent - Week 2: The Great Announcement 12/16/2025

Advent - Week 2: The Great Announcement Scripture: Luke 1:26-38, Isaiah 7:14, Isaiah 9:6-7, Daniel 7:14, 1 Samuel 16:7 In today’s Scripture, we look at an incredible and great announcement from the angel Gabriel to Mary that she would be the mother of the Son of God, Jesus. In this season of Advent we also look with anticipation to the incredible and great announcement of Christ’s return. This will not be a quiet visit to just one person, this will be an announcement the whole world will see and hear! As we look at today’s reading, the question for us is how will we react to the announcement of the Savior’s birth? We can learn from Mary… The angel Gabriel came to Mary, saying, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you!” (Hold onto that word favored - we’re coming back to that!) She was pretty shocked, but the angel said to not be afraid and he announces to her that she will conceive (even though she is a virgin) and have a son. She is to name Him Jesus and he will be the Son of the Most High - His kingdom will never end. This child being announced is the long awaited Messiah! He is the fulfillment of the prophetic word all through the Old Testament. Call Him Jesus 1. Jesus = God Saves 2. Son of the Most High - God with us 3. Reign on David’s throne 4. Kingdom will never end!! As the story continues, Mary asks how this could be as she is a virgin. The angel tells her that the Holy Spirit will come on her and the power of the Most High will over come her and that the Holy One to be born will be called the Son of God. The angel concludes with, “No word from God will ever fail!!” What a great line! Sometimes that seems hard to believe, especially if we are going through a difficult time, but we have a clear word from God that His word never fails, that in the end all who trust in Jesus will share in His victory! In the end WE WIN! GOD KEEPS HIS WORD - no word from God will ever fail! But there’s a word here that speaks directly to us today as we walk by faith in our Savior - “Why was Mary CHOSEN (favored) to be the Mother of Jesus? Highly Favored 1. 1 Samuel 16:7 we learn that “The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the HEART.” God is concerned about the heart and that’s the heart of the reason He chose Mary to be the mother of Jesus. We want to have her heart. People look from the outside in, God looks from the inside out. 2. Devout (see Luke 1:46-47) - She knew God and His faithfulness 3. Humble (see Luke 1:48) The Lord noticed her humble state - she understood she deserved nothing from God, but she also knew God is good and everything good comes from Him. 4. Obedient (see Luke 1:38) Her reply to the announcement was, “I am the Lord’s servant. May your word to me be fulfilled.” She was willing to go along with the divine plan. She takes this Great Announcement as God’s truth! Our Savior is coming to earth! We want the Lord to look at our hearts and we want Him to see hearts that are faithful before Him: devout, humble and obedient. Our reaction to this Great Announcement is to respond in joy and thanksgiving and praise to the goodness and grace of God in Christ. This is a “WOW” gift! What an incredible announcement and living in response to it is an incredible way to live!! Check out the video on our website Check out the video on Youtube Watch via our app. Text HELLO to 888-364-4483 to download our app. /episode/index/show/awakeusnow/id/34327750

What Are You Waiting For? #3 - His Return 12/15/2025

What Are You Waiting For? #3 - His Return Acts 1:6-11, Psalm 22, Luke 21:28, Matthew 24:6-8, 14 Our story today, the ascension of Jesus on the Mount of Olives, takes place 40 days after His resurrection. Throughout His ministry, Jesus has shared what the end times will be like: Disasters Wars Rumors of wars Earthquakes Famine Pestilence Jesus said that these events are like birth pains - meaning they start slow and they increase in strength and frequency. These show us the end is coming nearer. Pastor shares evidence of the ramp up to the events that lead to Jesus’ return as these signs grow closer and closer together and get more and more severe. Though Jesus had often talked about the end times, the disciples with Him that day of His ascension, ask Him yet again, “Lord, are you at this time going to restore the kingdom to Israel?” They were anticipating that Israel’s freedom would be restored when Messiah came, that with the resurrection would come all that God had planned. And their anticipation that it must be now that it will happen, after all He’s alive, He triumphed over the grave - so now “are you going to restore the kingdom of Israel?” And Jesus replies, “It is not for you to know the dates the Father has set by His own authority.” Then Jesus goes on and what He says next becomes one of the biggest signs of all regarding the end, that the good news would reach the ends of the earth. “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” In Jesus’ words found in Matthew 24:14 He says, “And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.” Jesus made it clear that we do not know the day of His return but we can look at the signs and the signs are very clear. We are living in remarkable times: disasters, war, persecution increasing, like birth pains, Israel restored (1948), but also the message of Jesus to every nation and peoples across the globe. These are unsettling times, but they are also exciting times. Our scripture story ends with a word from the angels that appeared with the disciples after Jesus went up into the clouds of heavens, “Men of Galilee,” they said, “why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven.” Yes! He IS coming back as the song says, “Riding on the clouds!” Jesus tells us “When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” (Luke 21:28) When we see the signs that He laid out being fulfilled, look up, be awake, watch! Because our Redeemer’s return is drawing near! Let’s eagerly anticipate the final appearing of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ! No matter what happens, we know our Savior is coming back and that gives us confidence and hope even in uncertain times. God is faithful! Jesus IS alive and He’s coming back! What are we waiting for? HIS RETURN! Amen!, Come Lord Jesus! Now What? Learn about God at https://www.awakeusnow.com EVERYTHING we offer is FREE. Check out the video from our website: https://www.awakeusnow.com/sunday-service Watch via our app. Text HELLO to 888-364-4483 to download our app. /episode/index/show/awakeusnow/id/14559305

Questions - Week 10: Is Jesus Really the Messiah? 12/14/2025

Questions - Week 10: Is Jesus Really the Messiah? Today’s message looks at the words of John the Baptist from Matthew 11:2-3, “When John, who was in prison, heard about the deeds of the Messiah, he sent his disciples to ask him, 'Are you the one who is to come, or should we expect someone else?'” John although a deep believer came to a point where he had his doubts. Such big doubts that he had his own disciples travel 100 miles to ask Jesus that question. Matthew 11:4-5 “Jesus replied, “Go back and report to John what you hear and see: The blind receive sight, the lame walk, those who have leprosy are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is proclaimed to the poor.” These are words from the Old Testament’s prophecies, Jesus quoted from Isaiah 35:5-6 “Then will the eyes of the blind be opened and the ears of the deaf unstopped. Then will the lame leap like a deer, and the mute tongue shout for joy.” And Isaiah 61:1 “The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor.” Jesus quoted these verses about the prophecies of the Messiah to show that He was the Messiah, that He and the prophecies were one. John’s disciples are still listening as Jesus goes on and says in Matthew 11:11-15 “Truly I tell you, among those born of women there has not risen anyone greater than John the Baptist...For all the Prophets and the Law prophesied until John. And if you are willing to accept it, he is the Elijah who was to come. Whoever has ears, let them hear.” Again, these words are quotes from Old Testament Scriptures found in Malachi 3:1, Malachi 4:45-6 and Isaiah 40:3 that tell about the one who will prepare the way for the coming Messiah. These are words about John the Baptist. The Controversy: What kind of Messiah? ⁃ Will he be prophetic, priestly or kingly? ⁃ Will he be a Messiah of mercy or judgment? ⁃ Would he suffer or reign? ⁃ Will there be 2 Messiahs who come once or 1 Messiah who comes twice? The Biblical Evidence for Messiah: ⁃ Birthplace Micah 5:2 ⁃ Lineage Isaiah 11:1 ⁃ Miracles Deuteronomy 18:15 ⁃ Sacrifice Leviticus 17:11 ⁃ Resurrection Isaiah 53:11 We close with Pastor’s heartfelt encouragement to let the word of God speak to our hearts, to search the scriptures and find what Jesus the Messiah has to say to us. No matter who you are, think about this: If Jesus really is who He claimed to be, there is nothing more important than knowing Him and being known by Him. Jesus is different than what we expected…. But He is exactly what the Bible predicted! If God loved us so much He was willing to take on human flesh and fulfill everything spoken beforehand by the prophets, lay down His life on a cross, rise from the grave and announce forgiveness to all who believe, who would reject such an offer? It’s true He was different than what was expected, but He is exactly what was predicted and He’s coming back! Therefore, we need to know Him and be known by Him. Now What? Learn about God at https://www.awakeusnow.com EVERYTHING we offer is FREE. Check out this video series from our website: https://www.awakeusnow.com/whats-the-answer Join us Sundays https://www.awakeusnow.com/sunday-service Watch via our app. Text HELLO to 888-364-4483 to download our app. /episode/index/show/awakeusnow/id/39395160

Rescued by Truth: Week 50 12/13/2025

Two Year Gospel Study Week 102 12/12/2025

Two Year Gospel Study Week 102 The Gospel of John Week 24 Scripture: John 18:38 - 19:24. As we begin our story today, Pilate is telling the crowd he finds no basis for a charge against Jesus. So he offered to free a prisoner asking if they wanted Barabbas or Jesus released. The crowd wants Barabbas release and then Pilate has Jesus flogged. Pastor talks in graphic detail what a flogging was like, the equipment used and what Jesus experienced: excruciating pain, horrendous suffering, brutal torture, and cruel ridicule. Again Pilate goes out to the crowds telling them he can find no basis for a charge. Pilate brings Jesus out in front of the crowd and the crowd shouts to crucify Him. The Jewish leaders insisted that Jesus had to die because he claimed to be the Son of God. Pilate says to Jesus, “Don’t you realize I have power either to free you or to crucify you?” And Jesus answered, “You would have no power over me if it were not given to you from above. Therefore the one who handed me over to you is guilty of a greater sin.” From that time on Pilate tried to set Jesus free. But the Jewish leaders kept shouting, that if Pilate let Jesus go that he would be opposing Caesar. So then Pilate brought Jesus out and Pilate sat down on the judge’s seat and on this day, The Day of Preparation of the Passover, at noon, Pilate handed Jesus over to them to be crucified. The soldiers took Jesus. Carrying His own cross, Jesus was brought to the place of the Skull (which in Aramaic is called Golgotha) and Jesus was crucified with two others —one on each side and Jesus in the middle. Pastor shares in graphic detail about the brutality and reality of crucifixion. And how this is what Jesus endured for us. Jesus goes to the cross willingly, a clear testimony that God loved this world so much that He was willing to endure this and that, in a way beyond our ability to fully comprehend, is the love of the Living God in such a way that He took on human flesh, and He endured this for us. It is a clear indication of just how much He cares for us and when we read this it drives us to our knees realizing, “Oh Lord, have mercy on me a sinner.” The the Son of God came to save us, because we could not save ourselves. Pastor goes on to talk about archeological discoveries and the possible locations of Golgotha and Jesus’ tomb along with sharing many personal photos including a picture of the “Jerusalem Cross.” We pick back up with the story with Pilate having a sign posted on Jesus’ cross that said in three languages, “Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews.” The religious leaders protested because they told Pilate it was what Jesus only “claimed.” Pastor then shares a personal discovery that came to him as he was preparing for this study. It’s a fascinating piece about the name of the Living God, written by Pilate and placed over the head of the crucified Jesus. (No I won’t share any more than that!! You will have to take a listen to Pastor sharing what he discovered!) In verse 23 of chapter 19 we read that the soldiers took Jesus clothes, dividing them into 4 pieces and then took his undergarment and cast lots for it. This is a fulfillment of the prophetic words from Psalm 22:18. Pastor takes the time to explore more of Psalm 22 that has several verses fulfilled in the death and crucifixion of Jesus. We see that this is not a miscarriage of justice by evil human beings. Rather, this is a profound fulfillment of God’s prophetic word that was uttered by King David a thousand years before it took place. And this is not just simply a story. This is history. This is His - story. This is my Savior’s story. Our website – https://www.awakeusnow.com Watch the video from our website! https://www.awakeusnow.com/2-year-study-of-the-gospels-upper Watch the video from our YouTube Channel!! https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLTaaqrC3dMOzMkhPyiNWwlJRpV6Bwpu01 ⁃ The Gospel of John study is part five of five of our Two Year Study of the Gospels. ⁃ The Gospel of John may be one of the most powerful books ever written. Many people have come to faith after reading only this book of the Bible. Scholarly and archeological discoveries in recent decades give us new insight on details in the Gospel of John. We can now understand it as the most Jewish rather than the most “Gentile/Greek” of the Gospels, and when we do that we see many things that we missed before. Our 2 year study of the gospels is great for large group, small group or home group study and can be started at any time! /episode/index/show/awakeusnow/id/37561905

What Are You Waiting For? #4 - An Outpouring of the Holy Spirit 12/12/2025

What Are You Waiting For? #4 - An Outpouring of the Holy Spirit Scripture: Acts 2:14-21, Joel 2:28-32, Acts 2:38, Luke 11:13, Acts 2:17. Have you repented? And have you been baptized in the name of Jesus Christ and believe on Him? Then the gift of the Holy Spirit is already yours (Acts 2:38). But... have you opened that gift? Pastor will examine what the Scriptures have to say about the Holy Spirit and what that means for our lives today. Our text is Peter’s speech to the crowd on the day of the outpouring of the Holy Spirit found in Acts 2. Peter shares that what has happened to a group of believers is that they had received the power of the Holy Spirit. This giving of the Holy Spirit came after Jesus ascension and was told in the book of Joel. Peter recounts those words: Acts 2:17 “‘In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams.” We are living in “The Age of the Last Days.” Those days are from the coming of the Messiah until His final return. These are the days of God’s Spirit, the Holy Spirit, being poured out. This is “the age of the Spirit” the Spirit is poured out on all flesh. What does the Holy Spirit Do? He gives the power to Live for God Live a meaningful and significant life in a world that is decaying around us Live confidently What does the Spirit’s power look like? Teaches us Convicts us of sin and our need for a Savior and to turn our lives around Dwells with the people of God, our bodies are a temple of the Holy Spirit Reveals the things of God Guides us, leads and directs us Gives us gifts Intercedes and prays for us Sanctifies, transforms and renews us, changes our minds, attitudes and behavior to resemble the mind, attitude and behavior of Christ. Why is it that many Christian circles ignore the Holy Spirit? God instructs us to walk in the power of the Holy Spirit, to follow Him, listen to Him and to be guided by Him. What is it that has prevented so many of God’s people from doing that? THE ANSWER: F E A R What will happen if we start talking about the Holy Spirit What will take place if we begin to explore what the scriptures say about the Holy Spirit How will people respond What will be the result Fear sets in the idea it might cause division F E A R does not produce good theology! F E A R leads to a crippled theology that ignores the reality of the Holy Spirit. It speaks about the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, but so often stops there. BUT THE BIBLE DOES NOT! This is a new age - the age of the Spirit - and so we must act on it by faith. Fear keeps us from going where God wants us to go. IS FEAR KEEPING YOU FROM THE HOLY SPIRIT? The Bible declares we do not need to fear having the Holy Spirit, BECAUSE WE ALREADY HAVE IT! ACTS 2:38 Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” When we repent, received Jesus as our Savior and are baptized we receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. So the question is: HAVE YOU OPENED THAT GIFT? A good gift needs to be opened! God is saying “Open the gift and just watch what I will do!” We are not to have half-hearted faith but rather whole-hearted commitment to God who has given us His Spirit! What are you waiting for? OPEN THE GIFT! Now What? Learn about God at https://www.awakeusnow.com EVERYTHING we offer is FREE. Check out the video from our website: https://www.awakeusnow.com/sunday-service Watch via our app. Text HELLO to 888-364-4483 to download our app. /episode/index/show/awakeusnow/id/14653943

What Are You Waiting For? #2 - Family Matters 12/11/2025

What Are You Waiting For? #2 - Family Matters Scripture: Mark 16:15, Acts 16:11-34. Individuals matter to God, and so do families. In today’s study of God’s Word, we see entire households being baptized into the family of God. God calls us to proclaim the Truth of the Message of Jesus, The Gospel of God. For today’s teaching let’s consider this frequently asked question: Is baptism necessary for salvation? Answer: NO BUT! Is baptism necessary? Answer: YES Baptism IS necessary but the Bible makes it clear it’s not necessary for salvation. Yet, it’s incredibly important. Today’s story is of Paul, Silas, Timothy and Luke in Philippi. In this city of retired Roman soldiers, there was evidently no synagogue in town, so on the Sabbath Day Paul and his group went to where people would be gathered. That was at the river outside of town and it was women that were gathered there. Paul’s team shared the gospel with the women and Lydia - a business woman - was there. God opened her heart to respond to Paul’s message. After accepting Jesus as her Savior, she and her household (family, servants, employees) were baptized. As the story progresses, Paul and Silas end up being thrown into jail after being flogged. They were held in irons around their ankles and how are they responding to this? It’s midnight and they are trusting God in this time of difficulty, praying and singing while the other prisoners and the jailer were listening. Suddenly there was a violent earthquake causing the prison doors to fly open and the chains to fall off. The jailer woke and when he saw the prison doors were all open he drew his sword and was going to kill himself because he thought all the prisoners had escaped. But instead this jailer’s life was spared in every way imaginable: Paul shouts for him not to hurt himself. The jailer calls for light to be brought in and he sees they are still in their cells and he says “what must I do to be saved?” The jailer sees something in Paul and Silas that he himself is lacking and he wants what they have: JESUS! In Acts 16:31 we read, “And they said, "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.” Then the jailer invites them to his house. Paul and Silas share the Gospel Message with him and his family and then the Bible text tells us that “immediately” he and his household were baptized. The jailer now has what Paul and Silas have - JESUS - and the jailer was filled with joy because he and his household came to believe in God. Biblical Basics RE: Baptism ⁃ Baptism is not magic ⁃ Baptism is miraculous ⁃ Baptism is the beginning nt the end ⁃ Baptism is never delayed ⁃ Baptism is never restricted. Baptism changes lives! God wants His Gospel Message to reach households, the people nearest and dearest to us all. God desires all to be saved to come to a knowledge of the truth. He wants all to become followers of Jesus and be baptized into Him. We are important to God, our families are important to God and He wants all to be part of His family, the Family of God because Family Matters! Now What? Learn about God at https://www.awakeusnow.com EVERYTHING we offer is FREE. Check out the video from our website: https://www.awakeusnow.com/sunday-service Watch via our app. Text HELLO to 888-364-4483 to download our app. /episode/index/show/awakeusnow/id/14472746

What Are You Waiting For? #1 - The Invitation 12/10/2025

What Are You Waiting For? #1 - The Invitation Acts 8:26-39, Psalm 51:7, Isaiah 53 God offers His invitation to every single one of us. Pastor opens today's class with a story from Ruth Bell Graham's life (the wife of Billy Graham) and how personalizing chapter 53 of the book of Isaiah in the Bible changed her life. Our scripture story today is the story of an angel telling Philip to go south on the road that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza. On the road, Philip meets a eunuch who is an Ethiopian high official in charge of the treasury. He is on his way home from Jerusalem. When God calls, when God invites, we ought to answer, we ought to respond, and Philip did. Things to learn from this story: 1. God loves individual people. 2. God especially seeks seekers. 3. God arranges encounters. The Spirit of God told Philip to go to the Ethiopian’s chariot and stay near. As Philip approaches, he hears the man reading out loud chapter 53 of Isaiah and Philip asks the him if he understands what he is reading. And the eunuch says he can’t unless someone explains it to him and so he invites Philip up into his carriage so that Philip can explain the powerful words that we find in this chapter. It is a chapter that talks about Jesus and who he is. Philip shares the good news about Jesus. This chapter that changed, Ruth Bell Graham's life had previously changed the Ethiopian’s life. Through Philip answering God’s call, the Ethiopian is given the invitation to experience life forever through faith in Jesus who died for him, for you, for me and who rose from the grave and who is coming back. The Ethiopian believed, and they stopped the chariot so that he could be baptized. Have you received the invitation? Have you received the invitation to believe on Jesus as your Savior? Have you received the invitation to be baptized into His name? If not, we invite you to reach out to us at mail@awakeusnow.com. Now What? Learn about God at https://www.awakeusnow.com EVERYTHING we offer is FREE. Check out the video from our website: https://www.awakeusnow.com/sunday-service Watch via our app. Text HELLO to 888-364-4483 to download our app. /episode/index/show/awakeusnow/id/14371274

Kings & Prophets: From Solomon to Jeremiah - Week 13 12/09/2025

Kings & Prophets: From Solomon to Jeremiah - Week 13 Today we come to one of the most fascinating times in the history of the kingdom of Judah, an amazing king who does amazing things by the power of an amazing God. But first we take a look at King Ahaz who ruled from 731-715 BC. In 2 Kings 16:2-3 we read that Ahaz did not do what was right in the eyes of the Lord. He followed the ways of other kings, even sacrificing his son in the fire. King Ahaz ⁃ Finds himself under attack by Pekah and Rezin ⁃ Discovers there is a price to pay when you turn your back on the Living God ⁃ Seeks help from the Assyrians - Assyria was a massive growing super power. ⁃ Then God brings a rebuke through the prophet Isaiah (a most effective and influential prophet) but Ahaz refuses to listen. ⁃ Ahaz continues to turn away from God and desecrated the Temple of God as he continues to rebel against God. ⁃ His rebellion brings sadness and tragedy and he continues to suffer military attacks. During Ahaz’s reign in Judah, we read in 2 Kings 17:5-6 that Israel is defeated by the Assyrians after a 3 year siege. At the end of Ahaz’s reign we see that in spite of the faithlessness of God’s people, God remains faithful. The next king of Judah is one of the best. King Hezekiah is Ahaz’s son and Hezakiah rules 715-686 BC. King Hezekiah did what was right in the eyes of the Lord. 2 Kings 18:3. King Hezekiah ⁃ In the first month of the first year of his reign he had the Temple cleansed. 2 Chronicles 29:3-5 ⁃ Then Hezekiah holds a national Passover celebration inviting all of Israel and Judah. They had a 2 week Passover celebration. 2 Chronicles 30:1. ⁃ Hezekiah destroys the sacred stones, high places and Asherah poles and also brakes into pieces the bronze serpent that Moses had used to God’s glory but that had become an idol of the Israelites who had been burning incense to it. 2 Kings 18:4 ⁃ Hezekiah is facing the enemy of Assyria as they are coming to conquer Jerusalem and so in 2 Kings 20:20 we read that he built a tunnel and a pool. In the 1880’s the Siloam Inscription was discovered. It tells the story of the building of the tunnel. Hezekiah built this tunnel to ensure there would be water when under siege by the Assyrian army by diverting the Gehon spring into Jerusalem leaving no fresh water available to the Assyrian army. ⁃ Then the siege begins against Jerusalem. 2 Kings 18:28-29 the king’s commander, speaking in Hebrew, calls out that the king of Assyria says that Hezekiah has deceived you because he will not be able to deliver you from me and my army. The king of Assyria is trying to get the people in Jerusalem to just give up. ⁃ Then Hezekiah prays a beautiful prayer - 2 Kings 19:15-16 and God listens and the King of Assyria is defeated by God Himself. 2 Kings 19:35-36. The Assyrians withdraw and return to Nineveh and the siege is ended. ⁃ Then Hezekiah becomes very ill to the point of death. Isaiah comes to Hezekiah to tell him to put his house in order. Hezekiah weeps and prays and God sees Hezekiah’s tears and hears his prayer and God heals him. 2 Kings 20:1-5 ⁃ Hezekiah is visited by the Babylonians, a rising power that will ultimately defeat the Assyrians. 2 Kings 20:13 we read of Hezekiah being tempted by pride. The prophet Isaiah then brings a word to Hezekiah telling him that everything you just showed off to the Babylonians will be taken by Babylonians. Hezekiah repents. ⁃ The prophets Micah and Isaiah were very active during Hezekiah’s reign. ⁃ Hezekiah was one of the greatest kings the nation had ever known. 2 Kings 18:5-6 tells us that Hezekiah trusted the Lord, that there was no one like him among all the kings of Judah, both before and after him, that Hezekiah held fast to the Lord and did not stop following God and that he kept the commands of the Lord. Now What? Learn about God at https://www.awakeusnow.com EVERYTHING we offer is FREE. View live or on demand: https://www.awakeusnow.com/tuesday-bible-class Join us Sundays https://www.awakeusnow.com/sunday-service Watch via our app. Text HELLO to 888-364-4483 to download our app. /episode/index/show/awakeusnow/id/39307300

Forty Plus Ten - Week 7: Practice 12/09/2025

Forty Plus Ten - Week 7: Practice Scripture: Acts 2:41-42. What we see in today’s Scripture is that believers “practiced” living out their faith by doing. Not with head knowledge of “HOW to do things,” but by simply “DOING things.” Today’s verses tell us they devoted themselves NOT to the “How,” but rather to the “Doing.” Today verses say: Acts 2:41-42 Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day. They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. They not only DID these things, they “devoted” themselves to doing them. They practiced them. Practice definition - noun: 1. The actual application of use of an idea, belief, or method as opposed to theories relating to it. 2. The customary, habitual or expected procedure of way of doing of something. Pastor shares a great basketball example to help us understand the difference between “how to do things” and “doing things.” And in his example we will see that doing requires practice! Let’s examine verse 42. 1. Devoted themselves to the apostles teaching - the Greek word used for “devoting” actually is more accurately translated as “continually devoting” themselves to what they had been taught about the Gospel message of Jesus. We are to hold onto the right teachings and truth and practice living them. The application for us for “being devoted to the apostles teaching” is through: ⁃ Regular study of God’s Word ⁃ Solid biblical teaching ⁃ Christ-centered, Spirit-lead 2. Devoted themselves to fellowship - time with others that believed. Fellowship has several meanings, all which apply. It can mean communion both in having communion with the Holy Spirit and communion with the body and blood of Jesus. It can also refer to participation in sharing with others, being generous. The application for us for “being devoted to fellowship” is through: ⁃ Large and small groups ⁃ Christian friends and mentors ⁃ Generous life style 3. Devoted themselves to the breaking of bread which is they had meals together for sharing their faith both privately and publicly. They went to temple (large groups) and to small home groups along with doing the Lord’s Supper together. The application for us for “being devoted to breaking of bread” is by: ⁃ Christian fellowship at mealtime ⁃ Faith talk at meals ⁃ Lord’s Supper 4. Devoted themselves to prayer by following the morning and evening prayer times, formal times of prayer, but also informal prayer times in home gatherings and other places both public and private. The application for us for “being devoted to prayer” is by: 5. Having a personal prayer life - God desires we talk to Him 6. Prayer partners - people we pray with 7. Public prayer and worship We too are called to practice, not just understand what the Bible says about the Christian faith but DOING what the Bible says about the Christian faith Questions - Am I aware of what God is saying? Am I growing in the apostles teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread and prayer? Am I putting these into practice? Do I understand AND apply this verse? Do I understand what I am to do and do I do it? God is calling us to act on - to practice - the application of what we saw in today’s verse. Now What? Learn about God at https://www.awakeusnow.com EVERYTHING we offer is FREE. Check out this video series from our website: https://www.awakeusnow.com/40-10 Join us Sundays https://www.awakeusnow.com/sunday-service Watch via our app. Text HELLO to 888-364-4483 to download our app. /episode/index/show/awakeusnow/id/37098630

Forty Plus Ten - Week 6: Pierced 12/08/2025

Forty Plus Ten - Week 6: Pierced Scripture: Acts 2;22-41 Pastor continues our study of Pentecost with a look at part two of Peter’s sermon as shared in Acts 2 on that first Pentecost. The Bible account of this story tells us that “Peter’s words pierced their hearts, and they said to him and to the other apostles, “Brothers, what should we do?” So let’s dig into what Peter said that pierced their hearts, into what the Holy Spirit was doing and into their response. Then, let’s see what we can learn. In part one of Peter’s sermon in Acts 2, he shared the story of Jesus’ incarnation - of God coming to earth in the person of Jesus Christ. As we pick up with the rest of this sermon, Peter is talking about how Jesus is the Promised One that fulfills God’s promises made in the Old Testament. Then Peter tells them of Jesus’ suffering and crucifixion and states that they are the ones who crucified Jesus. As we consider this accusation, we ask who did put Jesus on the cross? Was it the Roman rulers who ran the Jesus trial? The soldiers that beat, whipped and nail Him to the cross? Was it the religious zealots that wanted Jesus stopped? Who put Jesus on the cross. The Bible tells us that “everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard.” Meaning we all need a Savior Jesus died for our sins. WHO put Him on the cross? WE put Him on the cross. Peter goes on with the good news of Jesus’ resurrection from the grave and that death could not hold Him quoting King David, “‘…My body rests in hope. For you will not leave my soul among the dead or allow your Holy One to rot in the grave….’” Acts 2:26b-27. Peter shares that this prophetic word from David was about Jesus who is the Messiah they have been awaiting. Peter tells them that after Jesus’ resurrection He ascended to God’s right hand and that the Holy Spirit was released just as Jesus had promised and tells them that is what they are witnessing this very day. Then the high point of the message is reached in verse 36, “So let everyone in Israel know for certain that God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, to be both Lord and Messiah!” Jesus is the Chosen One, the Savior! In the next verse we see their response to hearing Peter’s words. It is the verse we started with today, “Peter’s words pierced their hearts, and they said to him and to the other apostles, “Brothers, what should we do?” Their response was their hearts are pierced, cut to the heart by what Peter said, heart-broken, filled with sorrow, convicted. Having their hearts pierced, led them to see Jesus’ story as personal and made them want to change so they say, “What shall we do?” Accepting Jesus as our Lord, our Savior, our Messiah requires a response. What He’s done for each of us is personal and it requires a personal response. Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.” Peter’s message is one of the most important ever taught. ⁃ Jesus is the fulfillment of the prophesied Messiah ⁃ Repentance is recognizing that, “I’m a sinner. I need a Savior.” It is a change of heart and a change of mind. ⁃ Baptism in Jesus’ name for the forgiveness of sin. ⁃ Holy Spirit - Jesus desires to pour the Holy Spirit out into us today and everyday! Peter’s sermon brought thousands of people to faith in who Jesus is, to repentance, and to baptism. If you have walked away from Jesus or if you have not come to faith in Jesus, our prayer is that Peter’s message pierces your heart and brings you to faith in Jesus your Savior and Messiah! Now What? Learn about God at https://www.awakeusnow.com EVERYTHING we offer is FREE. Check out this video series from our website: https://www.awakeusnow.com/40-10 Join us Sundays https://www.awakeusnow.com/sunday-service Watch via our app. Text HELLO to 888-364-4483 to download our app. /episode/index/show/awakeusnow/id/37010395

Questions - Week 9: What is True Repentance? 12/07/2025

Questions - Week 9: What is True Repentance? We begin by looking at John the Baptist. Matthew 3:1-2 and 5-6 tells us. “In those days John the Baptist came, preaching in the wilderness of Judea and saying, ‘Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.’ People went out to him from Jerusalem and all Judea and the whole region of the Jordan. Confessing their sins, they were baptized by him in the Jordan River.” Pastor shares a personal visit to the Jordan River with pics of the area. As our story continues we see John calling out to the Pharisees and Sadducees who had come to the Jordan River to see what he was doing. He tells them that they need to produce fruit in keeping with repentance. What John is saying is that when they truly turn to the Living God, it will change them, that their attitude, behavior and thought patterns will be radically transformed. John goes on in verse 11 of chapter 3 to say, “I baptize you with water for repentance. But after me comes one who is more powerful than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.” John’s message was repent. His message was that the Messiah they had been waiting for was coming. He says that the Messiah will baptize them with the Holy Spirit and with fire, the fire of judgement. People were drawn to John the Baptist because he spoke the truth in love. He wasn’t the only one that talked about repentance. The Call to Repentance ⁃ John the Baptist - Matthew 3:2 ⁃ Jesus Christ the Messiah - Matthew 4:17 ⁃ Apostle Peter - Acts 2:38 ⁃ Apostle Paul - Acts 17:30 ⁃ Holy Bible - 2 Peter 3:9 Repent means to: Change your mind Change your attitude Change your thoughts Change your direction Turn around - do a 180 Repentance IS important. Who needs Repentance? ⁃ Isn’t this the punchline to a joke? - No. Jesus says in Luke 13:3 that unless we repent, we will all perish. Jesus considers repentance to be absolutely essential. ⁃ Isn’t repentance just for bad people? - this depends on how you translate the word bad. The point of comparison is not against people, it is against a holy God. The Bible tells us that all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. Matthew 21:31 Jesus said, “Truly I tell you, the tax collectors and the prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God ahead of you.” ⁃ This isn’t for religious people, is it? Jesus continues in Matthew 21:32 “For John came to you to show you the way of righteousness, and you did not believe him, but the tax collectors and the prostitutes did. And even after you saw this, you did not repent and believe him.” Repentance is for ALL people especially the religious. This teaching brings anger and bitterness from the religious because it exposes them for what they really are not and for what they show to others. ⁃ Isn’t this Old Testament teaching? Yes, but it is also New Testament teaching as seen earlier in this message. ⁃ Surely Christians don’t need to repent? From Jesus we read a series of seven epistles in Revelation. In Revelation chapters 2 & 3 Jesus says the word “repent” 7 times. Martin Luther said in Thesis 1: “When our Lord and Master Jesus Christ said, ‘Repent’ (Mt 4:17), he willed the entire life of believers to be one of repentance”. If you find yourself rebelling against what you are hearing today - we encourage you to hear the rest of the story. What is True Repentance 1. I am a Sinner - when I recognize this then I understand that 2. I need a Savior - turning to the only one who can save us. We are all sinners and we need a Savior. Without Him we are lost forever and it calls us to say 3. I trust in Christ alone - because the Living God stepped into this world, living a life of perfect obedience and willing went to the cross to pay for rebellion and sin and the one who rose victorious of death. Jesus is that Savior. We are called by the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, to trust in the redemption found only in Jesus and then to say 4. I will live for Him - repentance changes the way we think, the way we look at God and look others and the world, it changes the way we turn to the Living God and hang onto the Lord Jesus who is our Savior and Deliverer and seek the fullness of the Holy Spirit to live a life of faith, obedience, joy and peace, power in Him. This true repentance. Although the call to repent may sound scary, the gift of God through repentance is the greatest joy any one can know in this world and the life of the world to come. Now What? Learn about God at https://www.awakeusnow.com EVERYTHING we offer is FREE. Check out this video series from our website: https://www.awakeusnow.com/whats-the-answer Join us Sundays https://www.awakeusnow.com/sunday-service Watch via our app. Text HELLO to 888-364-4483 to download our app. /episode/index/show/awakeusnow/id/39307295

Rescued by Truth: Week 49 12/06/2025

Two Year Gospel Study Week 101 12/05/2025

Two Year Gospel Study Week 101 The Gospel of John Week 23 Scripture: John 18. Our story begins with Jesus in the Garden and soldiers, high priests, and Judas come to the garden carrying torches, lanterns and weapons. Jesus goes out to meet them asking, “Who is it you want?” Clearly showing who's in charge. Something we will see Jesus repeat in the next hours. Jesus is in charge and He’s always been in charge and that is a take home for us in our own lives as well. He’s in charge! He’s the Lord. Jesus knows all that is going to happen to Him. He’s shared that with His disciples, though they will not fully understand until Jesus’ resurrection. He is not blindsided by this group coming to the Garden. This is the reason He came, and this is the purpose for which He has come to carry out His work. Then Peter, who had a sword, drew it and struck the high priest, cutting off his right ear. Jesus tells Peter to put his sword away - and Jesus says, Shall I not drink the cup the Father has given Me?” Jesus knows what’s coming and is willing to go through with it all because it is the Father’s desire and the Son always obeys the Father. Pastor delves into the personality of Peter and how we will see him go from cutting off the ear of this man, to denying he knows Jesus, to going on to become a powerful evangelist. And yet Peter was flawed, we are all flawed individuals. The Lord still used Peter. He transformed Peter and He transforms us and this story is a reminder that Jesus uses us, too. As we return to our story we know Jesus is in control but He willingly allows His hands to be bound. Jesus is willing to go all the way to the cross for us. He is then taken to Annas, who was the father-in-law of Caiaphas, the high priest that year. Pastor shares some info on the recent discovery of an ossuary, bone box, belonging to Caiaphas and also some other archeological discoveries including a palatial mansion that may possibly be one of the locations where Jesus was tried. Pastor also reads some fascinating information from Eusebius’ History of the Church and puts together some interesting pieces of historical evidence to help bring light to all that John is telling us. Now our story moves into Peter’s first denial of knowing Jesus. Followed by Peter’s second and third denial of knowing Jesus. And then we read that at that very moment the rooster crowed. And Peter suddenly remembers what he has done and what Jesus had said. There is a contentious conversation, verses 19-24, “the high priest questioned Jesus about his disciples and his teaching. “I have spoken openly to the world,” Jesus replied. “I always taught in synagogues or at the temple, where all the Jews come together. I said nothing in secret. Why question me? Ask those who heard me. Surely they know what I said.” When Jesus said this, one of the officials nearby slapped him in the face. “Is this the way you answer the high priest?” he demanded. “If I said something wrong,” Jesus replied, “testify as to what is wrong. But if I spoke the truth, why did you strike me?” Then Annas sent him bound to Caiaphas the high priest.” From Caiaphas Jesus was taken to the palace of the Roman governor, Pontius Pilate. It is now early morning. Pastor shares the logistics of getting Jesus there and the possible location of the praetorium, the governor’s house. Pastor shares on the map the possible locations of this home. Jesus is brought before Pilate in verse 29 and Pilate asks what charges are being brought against Jesus, thus opening a court proceeding. Pastor shares interesting historical information about Jewish executions (stoning to death) and Roman executions (crucifixion), and what they were like. He shares the history of how the Romans, in the early first century, took away from the Jewish high priests and from the Sanhedrin, the right to convict and punish in capital cases and how the Romans demanded that they be the ones to carry that out. So this is why Jesus was crucified, and not stoned. Pilate then begins his questioning of Jesus and they have an in-depth conversation during which Jesus says, “The reason I was born and came into the world is to testify to the truth. Everyone on the side of truth listens to me.” Pilate replies, “What is truth?” We live in a society where people are still asking that same question. And the answer is still the same. Jesus is Truth. The truth sets us free! Our website – https://www.awakeusnow.com Watch the video from our website! https://www.awakeusnow.com/2-year-study-of-the-gospels-upper Watch the video from our YouTube Channel!! https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLTaaqrC3dMOzMkhPyiNWwlJRpV6Bwpu01 ⁃ The Gospel of John study is part five of five of our Two Year Study of the Gospels. ⁃ The Gospel of John may be one of the most powerful books ever written. Many people have come to faith after reading only this book of the Bible. Scholarly and archeological discoveries in recent decades give us new insight on details in the Gospel of John. We can now understand it as the most Jewish rather than the most “Gentile/Greek” of the Gospels, and when we do that we see many things that we missed before. Our 2 year study of the gospels is great for large group, small group or home group study and can be started at any time! /episode/index/show/awakeusnow/id/37561865

Forty Plus Ten - Week 5: Pentecost 12/05/2025

Forty Plus Ten - Week 5: Pentecost Scripture: Acts 2;1-21, Acts 2:17, Hebrews 1:1-2, 2 Timothy 3:1-4, 2 Peter 3. Pentecost is the birthday of the Christian church, but it’s even more than that. Join us as we explore the story of the first Pentecost and specifically focus in on Acts 2;17 “‘In the LAST DAYS,’ God says, ‘I will pour out my Spirit on all people.’” The New Testament makes it clear that these are the last days - with the coming of Jesus in the flesh, His ministry, His death and resurrection, His ascension and Pentecost a new era has begun. Beginning then we have entered into the Last Days of what we know of planet earth. Hebrews 1:1-2 tells us “In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom also he made the universe.” 2 Timothy 3:1 says, “But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God“ 2 Peter 3:3 “Above all, you must understand that in the last days scoffers will come, scoffing and following their own evil desires.” The “last days” are also in the Old Testament and they were: Israel’s Hope (The day they were longing for) Numbers 11:23 Ezekiel 36:26 Hosea 3;5 Micah 4:1 Jeremiah 31:31-34 What the Old Testament pointed to is now being fulfilled in the New Testament. God’s intent and plan has been there all along! Applications ⁃ These are the Last Days! God is fulfilling his plan - not a cause of panic - God is faithful - we are to take Him seriously - these are exciting times - dangerous many times - difficult, yes - these last days are days that change our world view. ⁃ Holy Spirit is outpoured and that outpouring continues. Holy Spirit yearns to fill us to overflowing so that we walk and pray in the Spirit - Holy Spirit points us to Jesus, the Spirit convicts, guides, leads and directs our lives. ⁃ The New Covenant is here. The law shows us God’s will but it doesn’t save because we are all sinners. The New Covenant is about the grace of God in Jesus Christ - God paid the price of the penalty for our sin at the cross. ⁃ Heed God’s Holy Spirit. Seek the Holy Spirit - do what He says - Keep on being filled with the Holy Spirit - we need the Holy Spirit to live the Christian life and to grow in faith. ⁃ Be Prepared - Be Awake! We are to be ready, on guard and awake! ⁃ Awake to: ⁃ What God has done ⁃ What God’s word has declared ⁃ The truth that the Last Days are here ⁃ The reality of the Holy Spirit’s indwelling ⁃ Awake and prepared for what is ahead. We need what only God can provide: ⁃ Divine Wisdom ⁃ Divine understanding ⁃ His truth ⁃ Strength for today ⁃ Power for tomorrow ⁃ Assurance of life forever through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ Everything we do is to revolve around the goodness, grace, mercy, presence, love and forgiveness of God because He changes everything! Pentecost is not just the birth day of the Christian church it is the culmination of all God had promised His Old Covenant people for centuries and that is fulfilled in Christ Jesus and His return. We are in the Last Days - but THE Last Day is coming - as is the age to come that is forever with Him! Now What? Learn about God at https://www.awakeusnow.com EVERYTHING we offer is FREE. Check out this video series from our website: https://www.awakeusnow.com/40-10 Join us Sundays https://www.awakeusnow.com/sunday-service Watch via our app. Text HELLO to 888-364-4483 to download our app. /episode/index/show/awakeusnow/id/36901335

Forty Plus Ten - Week 4: Promises 12/04/2025

Forty Plus Ten - Week 3: Purpose 12/03/2025

Forty Plus Ten - Week 3: Purpose Scripture: 1 Corinthians 15:6-8, Acts 1:15, Matthew 28:16, Matthew 28:20, 1 Peter 3:15, 2 Peter 3:18, 1 Peter 4:11 During the forty days between Jesus’ resurrection and His ascension, Jesus saw many individuals and small groups, but He also saw over five hundred people at one time. Where was it, and when did Jesus see this large group of people? Jesus kept showing up… ⁃ Jerusalem ⁃ Emmaus ⁃ Mount of Olives ⁃ Galilee (Pastor shares why he thinks that Jesus may have been in Galilee when He saw the 500. Pastor shares several pictures of the area around Galilee.) Those Jesus appeared to had a heart to share the amazing news after seeing Jesus truly was alive. Because Jesus is alive - because there are convincing proofs - what does that mean for our lives? ⁃ sharing the Gospel message ⁃ Obeying what Jesus had commanded APPLICATIONS ⁃ Purpose: Testimony - The One who rose, changes our lives and He is coming back! Peter’s testimony - 1 Peter 3:15 “but in your hearts revere Christ as lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.” When God has changed our lives through Jesus Christ, that gives us a testimony, it gives us purpose to share our personal testimony with friends, family, strangers. Our testimony isn’t just what we say, it’s how we live, too. ⁃ Purpose: Maturity - We are to grow in our faith, in our witness, in our knowledge of the living God, and not remain baby believers. 2 Peter 3:18 “But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be glory both now and forever! Amen.” We are not saved because we are mature, but rather it is because we’re saved, we want to mature. We don’t; want to remain baby believers, we want to grow up in Christ. And that gives Him glory, Our purpose is anchored and centered in the Lord Jesus Christ, our risen King. And we are to keep on maturing. ⁃ Purpose: Service - We are called to service Him with the gifts He has given us, with the time He has given us, with the opportunities and settings He has given us, 1 Peter 4:11 “If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen.” Speak the words of God and bring joy and hope, conviction and power into the lives of others. And serve them in God’s strength so that He is praised through the witness we share of Jesus and who He is. Be encouraged to serve Him with the gifts you’ve been given., to serve Him with your lives, your talents, your examples and in the opportunities He provides. Our purpose is to live for Him - Not for ourselves - but for HIM! Today, people are coming to faith in the Lord Jesus like never before, faith in Christ is exploding. And we are called to be part of that!! Now What? Learn about God at https://www.awakeusnow.com EVERYTHING we offer is FREE. Check out this video series from our website: https://www.awakeusnow.com/40-10 Join us Sundays https://www.awakeusnow.com/sunday-service Watch via our app. Text HELLO to 888-364-4483 to download our app. /episode/index/show/awakeusnow/id/36698660

Kings & Prophets: From Solomon to Jeremiah - Week 12 12/02/2025

Kings & Prophets: From Solomon to Jeremiah - Week 12 Our story picks up with Joash (the hidden royal) being brought forth at the age of seven and hailed as the king of Judah followed by the death of Athaliah. Peace reigns in Judah as we see over 100 years of four fairly “good” kings reigning in Judah from 835-731 B.C. These kings started well but didn’t always finish well: Joash, Amaziah, Uzziah and Jotham. King Joash ⁃ Takes the kingship at age 7 ⁃ Jehoiada, the High Priest, is Joash’s mentor, advisor and instructor ⁃ Spiritual reformation was taking place across Judah as Joash starts out so well with Jehoiada as his advisor - until Jehoiada’s death ⁃ Joash then gets new advisors (2 Chronicles 24:17-18) and they led him astray, worshiping idols and God’s anger came. ⁃ Zechariah is the High Priest after Jehoiada. Zechariah was Jehoiada’s son. He tells Joash and his new advisors of their sin against God, so they plot to kill him. 2 Chronicles 24:20. Zechariah is stoned to death. ⁃ Hazael is victorious in bottles over Judah ⁃ Then Joash’s assignation follows Amaziah ⁃ Amaziah is Joash’s son - Amaziah starts well but doesn’t finish well, following the pattern of his father. ⁃ Mercenaries come from Israel ⁃ Amaziah is given victory as he acts on the words of God through a prophet. 2 Chronicles 25:9 ⁃ But then Amaziah brings idols back from that victory. 2 Chronicles 25:15. Again a prophet comes to Amaziah to warn him, but this time Amaziah doesn’t listen. ⁃ He is then defeated by Jehoash, king of Israel and he too is assassinated. King Uzziah (also known as Azariah) ⁃ Uzziah is Amaziah’s son. 2 Chronicles 26:4-5 tells that he had godly counsel and as long as he sought the Lord, God gave him success. ⁃ He was an extremely capable king ⁃ Ruled for 52 years ⁃ In Israel, Jeroboam II was ruling. Uzziah and Jeroboam II expanded both nations to the original size of the kingdom at the time of David and Solomon. ⁃ New prophets arise during the reign of Jeroboam II and Uzziah: Jonah, Amos, Hosea and Isaiah ⁃ Their kingdoms experienced the glory days of David and Solomon ⁃ But then Uzziah does not finish well. His pride went to his head and he usurped the role of the priests in burning the incense and immediately gets leprosy. 2 Chronicles 26:16-17 King Jotham ⁃ Uziah’s son, Jotham becomes king of Judah. 2 Chronicles 27:2. He did what was right in the eyes of the Lord, but the people, however, continued their corrupt practices. ⁃ Battle with the Ammonites - Godly king who is victorious over the Ammonites. 2 Chronicles 27:6 ⁃ Prosperity & Spiritual decline begins. The renewal did not spread throughout all the people. ⁃ We see the growing power of their enemy in Assyria Next week our story continues with the rise of the power of the Assyrians. Now What? Learn about God at https://www.awakeusnow.com EVERYTHING we offer is FREE. View live or on demand: https://www.awakeusnow.com/tuesday-bible-class Join us Sundays https://www.awakeusnow.com/sunday-service Watch via our app. Text HELLO to 888-364-4483 to download our app. /episode/index/show/awakeusnow/id/39134440

Forty Plus Ten - Week 2: Pardon! 12/02/2025

Forty Plus Ten - Week 2: Pardon! Scripture: Acts 1:3, 1 Corinthians 15:3-8, Galatians 1:18-19, 1 Timothy 1:13-17. In today’s study we take a look at a Credal Statement. What is a Credal Statement? ⁃ It is a fundamental of faith ⁃ It enable people to talk about what they know and believe ⁃ It is easily memorized ⁃ It is easily understood ⁃ It is easily shared Paul says in 1 Corinthians 15:3-5 “What I received I passed on to you. And it is the most important of all. Here is what it is. Christ died for our sins, just as Scripture said he would. He was buried. He was raised from the dead on the third day, just as Scripture said he would be. He appeared to Peter. Then he appeared to the 12 apostles.” (The Credal Statement in bold.) Then Paul continues with verses 6-8, “After that, he appeared to more than 500 brothers and sisters at the same time. Most of them are still living. But some have died. He appeared to James. Then he appeared to all the apostles. Last of all, he also appeared to me. I was like someone who wasn’t born at the right time.” Paul mentions three men in these verses: Peter, James (Jesus’ 1/2 brother) and himself. 2000 years later we have evidences of authenticity: There is convincing physical evidence of Peter’s home in Jerusalem. Pastor shares pictures. There is a bone box, The James Ossuary, which has also been discovered and has an inscription, “James, son of Joseph, brother of Jesus.” The basic consensus of scholarly opinion is that this is very likely authentic. Who were these men? Peter: denied Jesus publicly three times James: his brother, was an unbeliever - did not believe Jesus was who He was, and James ridiculed his brother Jesus Paul: persecuted and killed believers and denounced Jesus Who did they become? ⁃ Peter became an apostle of Christ and bold preacher of God’s Word. Even arrest, beatings, and threats didn’t lessen Peter’s determination to preach the risen Christ. ⁃ James, after seeing Jesus risen from the grave, became a believer and also became the leader of the early Christian church in Jerusalem. ⁃ Paul was born Saul and he persecuted believers, but after meeting Jesus on a walk to Damascus Saul became Paul the Apostle and defender of the Gospel. What did these three have in common? ⁃ They had all failed Jesus ⁃ A denier ⁃ A radical ⁃ A persecutor ⁃ All come to faith in the Risen Lord ⁃ Their lives are changed ⁃ They give powerful testimonies to Christ’s love for all sinners What else do they have in common? ⁃ The PARDON of Christ - Forgiveness in full. ⁃ Each of their stories is a story of redemption in Jesus and a testimony that not a single one of us is beyond the saving grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. ⁃ In these three men we see that God saved the worst of us so that He might save all of us. Their changed lives are a testimony to the heart of God wanting us all. How do their stories speak to us today? Applications of the Pardon of God ⁃ Christ’s mercy and grace is for us too - 1 Timothy 1:13-14 “I used to speak evil things against Jesus. I tried to hurt his followers. I really pushed them around. But God showed me mercy anyway. I did those things without knowing any better. I wasn’t a believer. Our Lord poured out more and more of his grace on me. Along with it came faith and love from Christ Jesus.” ⁃ Christ’s saving power is for us too - 1 Timothy 1:15 “Here is a saying that you can trust. It should be accepted completely. Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners. And I am the worst sinner of all.” ⁃ Nothing we have done can cause Jesus not to want to win us over to Himself ⁃ Nothing that would cause Him to say He’s done with us ⁃ God wants ALL to be saved. ⁃ Christ’s patient renewal is for us too- 1 Timothy 1:16 “But for that very reason, God showed me mercy. And I am the worst of sinners. He showed me mercy so that Christ Jesus could show that he is very patient. I was an example for those who would come to believe in him. Then they would receive eternal life.” Incredible Love - Incredible Grace - Incredible Pardon And Jesus’ mercy and grace, saving power, patient renewal and incredible love are for us, too! Paul, Peter and James were living examples of God’s incredible grace - we too are living examples of His incredible grace. Pardon - God offers pardon, forgiveness to all who will repent and believe in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and we become the children of God…. FOREVER!! Now What? Learn about God at https://www.awakeusnow.com EVERYTHING we offer is FREE. Check out this video series from our website: https://www.awakeusnow.com/40-10 Join us Sundays https://www.awakeusnow.com/sunday-service Watch via our app. Text HELLO to 888-364-4483 to download our app. /episode/index/show/awakeusnow/id/36603960

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