Send us a textFor 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/JeremyMcCandlessSubscribe here to receive my new church history podcast every few weeks at.https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.comWelcome:Have you ever felt discouraged after sharing the Gospel with someone for years, only to see their heart remain hard and unresponsive? Many of us have experienced this frustration, especially when trying to reach those who are not only indifferent but also actively opposed to Christianity.In today’s episode, we’ll explore one of the most famous and unlikely conversions in the history of the church. Saul, who later became known as Paul, was once a fierce persecutor of Christians. His dramatic transformation, detailed in Acts 9:1-31, offers powerful lessons for us today. Join us as we dive into this remarkable story and uncover the spiritual truths it holds for us.Study Notes: "The Most Unlikely Conversion in History" (Acts 9:1-31)IntroductionReflecting on the difficulty of reaching those staunchly opposed to Christianity.Saul’s story as a dramatic example of God’s power to transform even the hardest hearts.Key PointsSaul's Pre-Conversion State:Saul’s relentless persecution of Christians (Acts 9:1).His self-righteousness and zeal as a Pharisee.His journey to Damascus to arrest followers of "the Way" (Acts 9:2).The Conversion Encounter:The heavenly light and Jesus’ voice (Acts 9:3-6).Saul’s blindness and helplessness (Acts 9:8-9).Ananias' vision and obedience (Acts 9:10-19).Immediate Transformation:Saul’s bold preaching in Damascus (Acts 9:20-22).The astonishment and opposition he faced (Acts 9:23-25).Challenges and Support:The scepticism from Jerusalem disciples (Acts 9:26).Barnabas' crucial role in vouching for Saul (Acts 9:27-28).Further opposition and Paul’s relocation to Tarsus (Acts 9:29-30).Lessons and Applications:The importance of human involvement in nurturing new believers.Ananias and Barnabas as examples of obedience and encouragement.The reality of suffering in the Christian journey (Acts 9:16).The church's growth and peace following Paul's conversion (Acts 9:31).Spiritual LessonsGod’s Sovereignty: God can reach and transform anyone, regardless of their past.Obedience and Trust: Ananias’ and Barnabas’ obedience to God’s call played a pivotal role in Paul’s journey.Community Support: New believers need the support and encouragement of the faith community.Perseverance through Trials: Embrace suffering as a part of the Christian walk, finding joy in God's presence amidst trials.Practical TakeawaysPray for the Unreachable: Trust that God is actively seeking those who seem far from Him.Engage and Support: Be willing to support and encourage new believers, helping them integrate into the faith community.Live as Examples: Strive to be godly examples, equippers, and encouragers for others in their faith journey.Support the showJeremy McCandless is creating podcasts and devotional resources | PatreonHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.com

Explore the fascinating encounter between Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch, where divine guidance plays a crucial role. Discover how Philip effectively shared the gospel while addressing questions about faith from a seeker. The discussion highlights the importance of being prepared to respond to inquiries about scripture. The story emphasizes the eagerness for salvation, illustrated by the eunuch's desire for baptism after understanding the message of Jesus. This engaging narrative showcases the transformative power of sharing faith.

Send us a textFor 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/JeremyMcCandlessSubscribe here to receive my new church history podcast every few weeks at.https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.comWelcome:Welcome to today's episode! In this episode, we delve into Acts 8:5-25 to explore the importance of aligning our thoughts with God's thoughts and how this transformation can lead us to live a godly life. Through the story of Philip in Samaria and the intriguing character of Simon the Sorcerer, we uncover practical lessons about thinking and acting in ways that reflect God's will.Episode NotesMain Themes:The importance of aligning our thoughts with God's thoughts.How transformed thinking leads to godly living.The impact of Philip's ministry in Samaria.The story of Simon the Sorcerer and the lessons we can learn from his encounter with the apostles.Key Points:Introduction to the Passage:Philip's mission to Samaria and the miracles he performed.The joy in the city as a result of God's work.Simon's Background:Simon's practice of sorcery and his claims of greatness.The people's admiration for Simon before Philip's arrival.The Shift in Belief:The Samaritans' response to Philip's preaching.Simon's belief and baptism.Controversy and Correction:Simon's misunderstanding about the Holy Spirit.Peter's rebuke and call for Simon's repentance.Lessons Learned:The significance of thinking like God to transform our lives.How actions rooted in godly thinking can lead to true spiritual transformation.Reflection Questions:How can we ensure our thoughts align with God's thoughts?What steps can we take to transform our thinking through the renewal of our minds?How can we apply the lessons from Simon's story to our own spiritual journey?Practical Application:Daily Scripture reading and meditation to align our thoughts with God's Word.Prayer for wisdom and discernment to think and act in ways that please God.Engaging in community and fellowship with other believers to encourage godly thinking and living.Thank you for joining me I hope you found it insightful and inspiring. Be sure to tune in next time as we continue to explore biblical principles for contemporary life.Support the showJeremy McCandless is creating podcasts and devotional resources | PatreonHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.com

Send us a textFor 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/JeremyMcCandlessSubscribe here to receive my new church history podcast every few weeks at.https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.comWelcome:Today, we look into a challenging passage from the book of Acts, focusing on the life and martyrdom of Stephen. In this episode, titled "Don’t Shoot the Messenger - The Stoning of Stephen," we explore Acts 6:8-8:4, uncovering valuable principles that we can apply to our own lives.Episode Notes: Don’t Shoot the Messenger - The Stoning of Stephen (Acts 6:8-8:4)Introduction:Today's episode narrates the story of Stephen, the first Christian martyr, and draws important lessons from his life and testimony.Stephen’s Arrest (Acts 6:8-15):Stephen, a man full of God’s grace and power, performed great wonders and signs.Opposition arose from members of the Synagogue of the Freedmen who could not stand up against the wisdom the Spirit gave Stephen as he spoke.False accusations of blasphemy against Moses and God led to Stephen’s arrest and trial before the Sanhedrin.Stephen’s Message (Acts 7:1-53):Stephen delivers a powerful speech recounting the history of Israel, from Abraham to Moses, highlighting how the people of Israel repeatedly rejected God’s messengers.He emphasizes that God does not dwell in temples made by human hands and accuses the Sanhedrin of resisting the Holy Spirit and betraying and murdering the Righteous One, Jesus.The Reaction to Stephen’s Message (Acts 7:54-8:4):The Sanhedrin, furious and enraged by Stephen’s accusations, stoned him to death.Stephen’s final words were a prayer for forgiveness for his persecutors, mirroring Jesus’ words on the cross.A great persecution broke out against the church in Jerusalem, leading to the scattering of believers throughout Judea and Samaria.Despite the persecution, believers continued to preach the word of God wherever they went.Key Takeaways:Trust in God: Stephen’s unwavering faith and peace, even in the face of death, is a powerful testament to the strength that comes from trusting in God.Boldness in Witness: Stephen used his trial as an opportunity to boldly proclaim the gospel, emphasizing the importance of seizing every chance to share the message of Christ.God’s Sovereignty: The scattering of believers due to persecution resulted in the spread of the gospel, demonstrating how God can use even difficult circumstances to fulfil His purposes.Reflection: As we reflect on Stephen’s story, let us consider how we can exhibit similar trust, boldness, and faithfulness in our own lives. How can we stand firm in our faith and be courageous in sharing the gospel, even when facing opposition?Support the showJeremy McCandless is creating podcasts and devotional resources | PatreonHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.com

Send us a textFor 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/JeremyMcCandlessSubscribe here to receive my new church history podcast every few weeks at.https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.comWelcome:In this episode, we delve into "The First Church Dispute," exploring Acts 6:1-7. This passage provides timeless lessons on conflict resolution and church leadership, which are incredibly relevant to our lives today. Join us as we uncover the wisdom in handling disputes and maintaining unity within the church community.Episode Notes:Episode Title: The First Church DisputeScripture Reference: Acts 6:1-7Summary: In this episode, we examine the first recorded dispute in the early church as described in Acts 6:1-7. This conflict arose between the Hellenistic and Hebrew Christians over the neglect of their widows in the daily food distribution. The apostles' solution—appointing seven men of good reputation, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom—provides a valuable model for addressing and resolving disputes within the church.Key Points Discussed:Understanding the Conflict: The cultural and linguistic divide between the Hellenists (Greek-speaking Jews) and the Hebrews (Aramaic-speaking Jews) led to tensions and complaints.The Apostles' Response: The apostles prioritized prayer and ministry of the word, delegating the practical task of food distribution to qualified individuals.Community Involvement: The congregation played a crucial role in selecting the seven men, fostering unity and shared responsibility.Qualities of Leadership: The chosen men were required to have a good reputation, be full of the Holy Spirit, and possess wisdom—traits essential for effective church leadership.Outcome: By addressing the issue wisely, the early church continued to grow, and the word of God spread, with many new disciples joining the faith.Lessons for Today:Prioritize Spiritual Leadership: Pastors and church leaders should focus on teaching and prayer, ensuring they are not overburdened with practical tasks.Embrace Delegation: Involving capable members in various ministries can help address practical needs while maintaining the primary mission of the church.Foster Community Engagement: Encouraging congregation participation in decision-making can strengthen unity and collective responsibility.Seek Qualified Leaders: Effective church leadership requires individuals with integrity, spiritual maturity, and practical wisdom.Reflection Questions:How can we apply the principles of delegation and community involvement in our own church or ministry?What steps can we take to ensure that conflicts are resolved in a way that promotes unity and growth?How can we support our church leaders in prioritizing their spiritual duties?Call to Action: Reflect on your role within your church community. Are you contributing to resolving conflicts and promoting unity? How can you support your church leaders and fellow believers in following the biblical model of a healthy, gSupport the showJeremy McCandless is creating podcasts and devotional resources | PatreonHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.com

Send us a textor 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/JeremyMcCandlessSubscribe here to receive my new church history podcast every few weeks at.https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.comWelcome:Hello and welcome ! Today, we’re diving into an important topic that many of us struggle with: knowing the right time to speak up and share the gospel. We’ll be exploring Acts 5:12-42, a passage that offers valuable insights into seizing opportunities, facing opposition, and trusting in God’s timing.Study Notes: When is the Right Time to Speak Up?IntroductionTheme: Understanding the right time to share the gospel.Scripture: Acts 5:12-42Key PointsA Time of Opportunity (Acts 5:12-16)Context: The apostles are performing miracles and gaining favor among the people at Solomon’s Colonnade.Lesson: Seize the moment to share the gospel when opportunities arise.Application: Look for moments in your daily life where you can share your faith without hindrance.A Time of Opposition (Acts 5:17-24)Context: The apostles face jealousy and opposition from the high priest and Sadducees, leading to their imprisonment.Lesson: Be prepared to speak up even when faced with opposition.Application: Trust in God’s directives and continue to witness for Christ, even when it involves risk.A Time of Oppression (Acts 5:25-42)Context: The apostles are re-arrested, beaten, and commanded not to preach in Jesus’ name but continue to do so.Lesson: Persist in sharing the gospel regardless of the circumstances.Application: Recognize that faithfulness in witness may involve suffering, but God’s support and deliverance will be present.Practical ObservationsLook for Opportunities: Actively seek moments to share the gospel. Avoid waiting for a perfect time that may never come.Trust in God: Whether through supernatural means or everyday circumstances, God will support you as you share His word.Be Consistent: Preach the gospel both publicly and privately, during favorable times and in the face of opposition.Final ThoughtsSharing the gospel is a vital part of our Christian walk. Acts 5:12-42 teaches us that there is no perfect time to share the gospel—every moment is an opportunity. Whether facing opportunity, opposition, or oppression, we are called to be bold and faithful in our witness for Christ.Thank you for joining us in this study. Let’s commit to being courageous and consistent in sharing our faith, trusting that God will work through us in every circumstance.Support the showJeremy McCandless is creating podcasts and devotional resources | PatreonHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.com

Send us a textFor 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/JeremyMcCandlessSubscribe here to receive my new church history podcast every few weeks at.https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.comWelcome: Welcome Message:Welcome back today we dive into a somewhat challenging topic – "The Sin unto Death." Based on Acts 4:32-5:11, we will explore the story of Ananias and Sapphira and its implications for believers today. Join me as we unravel the complexities of sin, its consequences, and the importance of integrity and generosity within the Christian community.Study Notes:Scripture Reference: Acts 4:32-5:11Key Themes:Unity and Generosity of the Early Church: Acts 4:32-37 highlights the unity and generosity of the early believers, emphasizing a communal spirit where possessions were shared, and needs were met.The Deception of Ananias and Sapphira: Acts 5:1-11 tells the dramatic story of Ananias and Sapphira, who lied about their offering and faced immediate judgment.Sin and Its Consequences: This passage illustrates the severity of sin, particularly deceit, and the potential for sin to lead to premature physical death for believers.Main Points:Unity in Purpose: The early church was united in heart and mind, sharing possessions and supporting one another (Acts 4:32-35).Generosity Exemplified by Barnabas: Barnabas is highlighted as a model of generosity, selling his land and giving the proceeds to the apostles (Acts 4:36-37).Deceit and Judgment: Ananias and Sapphira's deceit in withholding part of their offering and lying about it led to their sudden deaths (Acts 5:1-11).Discussion Questions:What does the unity and generosity of the early church teach us about living in community today?How does the story of Ananias and Sapphira challenge us to examine our integrity and honesty in our giving and actions?What are the implications of the concept of "sin unto death" for believers today?Application:Reflect on your own generosity and honesty in your dealings with others and with God.Consider how unity and a spirit of sharing can be fostered within your own community.Take to heart the serious nature of sin and the importance of living a life that honors God.Closing Thoughts: As we conclude this episode, remember that our actions, whether seen or unseen, have profound implications. Let us strive to live lives of integrity, generosity, and unity, reflecting the grace and power of the Holy Spirit in all we do. Thank you for joining us today, and may God's grace be upon you as you seek to honor Him in every aspect of your life.For more episodes and resources, visit our website or follow us on Social Media. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to reach out to us. Until next time, stay blessed and keep applying those biblical principles to your daily life.Support the showJeremy McCandless is creating podcasts and devotional resources | PatreonHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.com

Send us a textFor 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/JeremyMcCandlessSubscribe here to receive my new church history podcast every few weeks at.https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.comWelcome:Today, we are exploring the topic of "True Freedom of Speech," based on Acts 4:23-31.  Today, we’ll address these fears and look at how the early church found boldness through prayer and the Holy Spirit. This passage in Acts 4:23-31 offers us profound insights into how we can find true freedom of speech through prayer, scripture, and the filling of the Holy Spirit.Key Points:Levels of Apprehension:General Hesitation: A natural tendency to avoid discussing spiritual matters for fear of people's reactions.Fear of Rejection: Worrying that someone might reject you personally for sharing your faith.Facing Opposition: Dealing with individuals who have shown resistance to spiritual conversations, making it even more daunting to speak up.Biblical Insight:Peter and John's Example: After being threatened by the Jewish leaders, they returned to their community and prayed together.Scriptural Focus: Their prayer began by acknowledging God's sovereignty and quoting scripture, showing the importance of grounding our prayers in God's Word.Practical Applications:Community Support: Having a small group or prayer partner can provide the necessary support and encouragement.Prayer and Boldness: Instead of praying for protection, they prayed for boldness to speak God's word and for God to perform signs and wonders.Community and Prayer: Peter and John didn't go back to the entire assembly of believers but to a smaller group, likely the original apostles and a few others. This suggests the importance of having a close-knit group for support and prayer. Do you have a prayer partner or a small group of friends? If not, it’s important to find one for mutual support in prayer.Prayer and Scripture: Their prayer began by acknowledging God as the Creator, which is significant because it reminded them that God is in control of all circumstances. By focusing on the Creator instead of their circumstances, they alleviated their fear.Overcoming Fear with Boldness: The disciples prayed not for protection but for power and boldness to speak God’s word. This is a powerful example for us. When facing opposition, we should pray for the strength to continue trusting that God is in control and will accomplish His purposes.Results of Their Prayer: After praying, the place where they were meeting was shaken, indicating God's presence. They were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly. This demonstrates that their boldness and freedom to speak came as a result of prayer and the filling of the Holy Spirit.Practical Takeaways:Corporate Prayer: Depend on the Holy Spirit:Closing Thoughts: If you feel apprehensive about speaking to someone about the Lord, follow the pattern we see in this passage. Seek out prayer support fSupport the showJeremy McCandless is creating podcasts and devotional resources | PatreonHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.com

Send us a textFollowing Special requests I am happy today to re-post my special Advent episode which was recorded live at the Well Church, Ancdell on Sunday 4th December 2022.Support the showJeremy McCandless is creating podcasts and devotional resources | PatreonHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.com

Send us a textFor 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/JeremyMcCandlessSubscribe here to receive my new church history podcast every few weeks at.https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.comWelcome:Hello and welcome! Today, we delve into a crucial and complex topic: "The Limits of Obedience," based on Acts 4:1-22. As we explore the boundaries of our obedience to human authority and our ultimate allegiance to God, we’ll gain insights from the bold stand taken by Peter and John in the face of opposition. Thank you for joining us as we unpack this vital teaching and its implications for our lives today.Episode Notes: The Limits of ObedienceScripture Reference: Acts 4:1-22Summary: In this episode, we address the challenging question of where the limits of obedience to human authorities lie, especially when such obedience conflicts with our commitment to God. Through the narrative in Acts 4:1-22, we see Peter and John boldly proclaiming the gospel despite being commanded by the authorities to stop teaching in the name of Jesus. This powerful passage illustrates the courage needed to stand firm in our faith and the principles guiding when and how to resist human directives that contradict God's commands.Key Points:Real-life Dilemmas: We begin with a real-life scenario of a woman conflicted between submitting to her husband and committing an unethical act, setting the stage for discussing the limits of obedience.Context in Acts: Peter and John's arrest and bold defense before the Sanhedrin illustrate the principle of obeying God rather than men.Transformation through the Holy Spirit: Peter's transformation from a fearful denier of Jesus to a bold proclaimer of the gospel underscores the power of the Holy Spirit in enabling us to stand firm in our faith.Authority and Obedience: The episode examines the balance between submitting to human authorities and prioritizing God's commands, emphasizing that our ultimate allegiance is to God.Practical Applications: We draw parallels to modern situations, such as ethical dilemmas in marriages and workplaces, offering guidance on maintaining integrity and obedience to God.Discussion Questions:How do we discern when to prioritize God's commands over human directives?What are some personal experiences where you had to make a tough decision about obedience to authority?How can we cultivate the boldness and courage seen in Peter and John in our own lives?Reflection: Consider the areas in your life where you face challenges in balancing obedience to human authority and your commitment to God. Reflect on the example of Peter and John and seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit to stand firm in your faith, regardless of the consequences.Thank you for listening. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and share it with others who might benefit from this teaching. Stay tuned for more episodes as we continue to explore biblical principles and their application in our daily lives.Support the showJeremy McCandless is creating podcasts and devotional resources | PatreonHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.com