Rapp Report episode 327 Discussed from What We Believe?"The purpose of the church is to glorify God (Ephesians 3:21) by building itself up in the faith (Ephesians 4:13-16), by instruction of the Word (2 Timothy 2:2, 15; 3:16-17), by fellowship (Acts 2:47; 1 John 1:3), by keeping the ordinances (Luke 22:19; Acts 2:38-42), and by advancing and communicating the gospel to the entire world (Matthew 28:19; Acts 1:8; 2:42). The local church is a God-centered, Bible-centered ministry that seeks eternal preparation by the exaltation of God, edification and equipping of believers, and evangelization of the world, starting with the local community."The primary focus of this podcast episode is the purpose of the church, emphasizing that its mission is to glorify God through various means, including the edification of believers, the instruction of the Word, maintaining fellowship, observing ordinances, and advancing the gospel worldwide. Andrew Rapoport engages in a thoughtful discussion with guest Harold Smith, a church revitalization missionary, who shares insights from his extensive experience working with struggling congregations. They explore the vital role of local churches in not just nurturing existing believers but also in reaching out to the lost, stressing the importance of a God-centered and Bible-centered ministry. The conversation highlights the need for churches to prioritize doctrinal clarity and community, as well as the dangers of becoming too focused on entertaining or appeasing congregants. With a mix of humor and serious reflection, the episode provides valuable insights for anyone involved in church leadership or seeking a deeper understanding of their faith community's role in the modern world.Andrew Rapoport welcomes Harold Smith to the podcast, where they delve into the vital role of the church in the modern world, emphasizing its purpose to glorify God. This episode marks the continuation of their series on what they believe, specifically addressing the church's mission in relation to personal faith and community. Smith, who serves as a church revitalization missionary, shares his experiences in revitalizing struggling congregations, particularly those with fewer than a hundred members. The discussion highlights the often-overlooked reality of small churches that face significant challenges in maintaining their vitality and effectiveness. Rapoport and Smith outline the church's purpose, which encompasses building up the faith of its members through biblical instruction, fellowship, the observance of ordinances, and the communication of the gospel to the world. They argue for a return to a God-centered and Bible-centered approach, steering clear of the pitfalls of entertainment-driven worship that can dilute the church's true mission. As they unpack the doctrinal statement of Striving for Eternity, a compelling case is made for the church as a nurturing environment that fosters spiritual growth and outreach, directly countering the cultural trend of individualism in faith.Takeaways: The primary purpose of the church is to glorify God through various practices. A healthy local church builds itself up in faith through the instruction of the Word. Evangelism should focus on outside the church, reaching the community first. Fellowship is essential to the church, enabling believers to grow together in faith. The church must keep the ordinances to maintain its identity as a body of believers. A local church that prioritizes God will naturally equip and evangelize effectively. Mentioned in this episode:Book a SfE speaker todayWe have several speakers that can cover many different topics. Contact us today: speaker@sfe.bibleBible Interpretation made Easy seminar

This podcast episode features a lively discussion between Andrew Rappaport and Caleb Gordon, centered on the importance of evangelism and the upcoming Built to Conquer Conference in Bartlesville, Oklahoma. Rappaport emphasizes that the first step in discipleship is evangelism, urging listeners to overcome their fears and share the gospel, which is fundamentally about inviting others into a relationship with Jesus. The conversation also highlights common excuses people use to avoid evangelism, such as fear of rejection or feeling unprepared. Both hosts agree that understanding the reality of hell and the urgency of sharing the good news should motivate believers to act. Listeners are encouraged to attend the conference for practical strategies in evangelism and to connect with like-minded individuals committed to advancing the kingdom.Andrew Rappaport welcomes listeners to a thought-provoking discussion on the critical role of evangelism in the Christian faith, emphasizing its connection to discipleship. He highlights the upcoming Built to Conquer conference in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, where he and other speakers will engage attendees on biblical evangelism. The conversation with Caleb Gordon dives into the barriers many Christians face when sharing their faith, such as fear of rejection or lack of knowledge. They challenge listeners to reconsider these fears by reflecting on the eternal implications of not sharing the gospel. Rappaport asserts that understanding the reality of hell can motivate believers to overcome their hesitations, as those who truly grasp the stakes are driven to communicate the hope found in Christ. Furthermore, they explore practical ways to initiate gospel conversations in everyday scenarios, demonstrating that evangelism can be both accessible and impactful. The episode intricately weaves personal anecdotes with theological insights, illustrating that the essence of evangelism lies in sharing the transformative message of Christ's sacrifice and grace. Rappaport argues for a proactive approach, encouraging believers to create opportunities for dialogue about faith rather than waiting for perfect moments to present themselves. This proactive stance is underscored by their humorous exchange about cold plunges, a metaphor for the discomfort often associated with evangelism, yet ultimately rewarding. The episode serves as a call to action for evangelistic fervor and a reminder of the joy and purpose that comes from sharing one’s faith with others.Takeaways: Andrew Rappaport emphasizes the importance of evangelism as a fundamental part of discipleship, which often gets overlooked in churches. The Built to Conquer conference on February 22, 2025, in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, focuses on practical evangelism strategies for attendees. Both hosts discuss the fear many people have regarding evangelism and how to overcome it through understanding the urgency of the Gospel. Rappaport and Gordon highlight how sharing the Gospel is akin to sharing great news, comparing it to personal invitations from celebrities or influential figures. The conversation encourages listeners to recognize the eternal significance of sharing their faith with others who might not know Christ. The episode concludes with practical ways to engage in evangelism, including utilizing gospel tracks and seizing everyday opportunities to share the faith. Links referenced in this episode:strivingforeternity.orgcalebgordon.orgThis podcast is a ministry of Striving for Eternity and all our resources Listen to other podcasts on the Christian Podcast CommunitySupport Striving for EternityLeave us a reviewGive us your feedback, email us info@StrivingForEternity.comGet the book What Do They BelieveGet the book What Do We BelieveSponsors:Squirrelly Joe’s Coffee use the code SFEfor 20% off your purchaseLogos Bible SoftwareMyPillow or call (800) 873-0176 and use promo SFE Mentioned in this episode:Bible Interpretation made Easy seminar

This episode emphasizes the critical importance of engaging with the Word of God as a foundational aspect of the Christian life. Pastor Dan explores Deuteronomy 6, highlighting the command to love the Lord with all one's heart, soul, and might while integrating Scripture into daily life. He encourages listeners to not merely read the Bible but to meditate on it, allowing its teachings to shape their worldview and decisions. By reflecting on historical figures like Martin Luther and Jan Hus, he illustrates the transformative power of the Scriptures and the sacrifices made for the accessibility of God’s Word. As the new year begins, this sermon serves as a poignant reminder to prioritize Bible reading and deepen one’s relationship with God through His Word.Andrew Rappaport, the host of the Rappaport podcast, kicks off the New Year by sharing a sermon he delivered at his home church, Oxford Valley Chapel. The sermon centers on the importance of studying the Word of God, especially as listeners embark on a new year filled with opportunities for spiritual growth. Rappaport emphasizes the need for Christians to engage with Scripture meaningfully, suggesting that the Bible is not just a book to be read but a vital resource for understanding one’s faith and living it out daily. He draws from the teachings found in Deuteronomy 6, which outlines the commandments given to Israel, stressing that these instructions are not merely historical but hold relevance for believers today. Rappaport delves into the significance of the Shema, a foundational declaration in Jewish faith that underscores the oneness of God and the call to love Him with all one's heart, soul, and might. He reflects on the tendency of modern believers to take the Bible for granted, contrasting this with the historical sacrifices made by individuals who valued Scripture so highly they were willing to die for it. The sermon serves as a poignant reminder that true engagement with the Bible requires more than cursory readings; it demands a heart committed to understanding and applying God’s Word in every aspect of life. Rappaport encourages listeners to not just read the Bible, but to meditate on it, allowing its truths to permeate their lives and guide their actions as they navigate the challenges and joys of the new year.Takeaways: Reading the Bible daily is essential for spiritual growth and deeper understanding of God. We must view life through the lens of Scripture to navigate challenges effectively. Moses emphasized the importance of teaching God's commandments to future generations. Engagement with the Bible should be about meditative reflection, not just casual reading. The historical significance of the Bible shows its transformative power in believers' lives. Our love for God grows as we understand His Word and what He has done for us. Links referenced in this episode:oxfordvalleychapel.orgstrivingforeternity.orgThis podcast is a ministry of Striving for Eternity and all our resources Listen to other podcasts on the Christian Podcast CommunitySupport Striving for EternityLeave us a reviewGive us your feedback, email us info@StrivingForEternity.comGet the book What Do They BelieveGet the book What Do We BelieveSponsors:Squirrelly Joe’s Coffee use the code SFEfor 20% off your purchaseLogos Bible SoftwareMyPillow or call (800) 873-0176 and use promo SFE

Join Andrew Rappaport and Chris Honholz as they dive into a lively discussion about evangelism, humor, and the unexpected connections between pop culture and the Christian faith. The episode kicks off with a humorous exploration of Chris's unique experiences dressing up as Captain America and the infamous Buddy the Elf, setting a light-hearted tone for the conversation. As the discussion progresses, they shift focus to the importance of effective evangelism, emphasizing the need for a respectful approach that disarms defenses and engages in meaningful dialogue. Andrew shares insights from his own background and the principles of ambassador evangelism, which highlight the role of humor and good questions in sharing the Gospel. This engaging episode not only entertains but also provides practical tips for listeners looking to improve their evangelistic efforts in a world that often views Christians through a skeptical lens.Mentioned in this episode:Bible Interpretation made Easy seminar

This episode of the Rap Report dives deep into the critical importance of Christian education, highlighting the distinctives of classical education as exemplified by the Lagos Christian Academy. Hosts Andrew Rappaport and Dominic Grimaldi discuss how Christian schools provide not only a biblical worldview but also a robust academic framework that fosters critical thinking and personal responsibility. They emphasize that parents play a vital role in their children's education, advocating for active involvement in both homeschooling and Christian schooling environments. The conversation touches on the challenges of public education, including the indoctrination of children with secular ideologies, and urges parents to consider the spiritual and educational welfare of their children seriously. Listeners will be encouraged to explore alternative educational options and understand the significant sacrifice and commitment involved in raising children with a strong foundation in faith and knowledge.The conversation between Andrew Rappaport and Dominic Grimaldi offers a compelling exploration of Christian education's role in today’s society, particularly through the lens of Grimaldi’s work at Logos Christian Academy. Rappaport opens up the dialogue with a clear stance against public education, which he sees as increasingly unaligned with Christian values. Grimaldi shares his firsthand experiences at Logos, where he teaches biblical doctrine and spiritual formation, arguing that Christian education must go beyond mere academic instruction to encompass the spiritual nurturing of students. Their discussion highlights the distinctiveness of classical education, which emphasizes not only the transmission of knowledge but also the development of character and critical thinking skills.As they delve deeper into the topic, both men express grave concerns about the influences children face in the public school system, including exposure to secular ideologies that can lead to confusion regarding identity and morality. Grimaldi raises a poignant question: Are children receiving the necessary spiritual and biblical training at home? He posits that the effectiveness of Christian education is significantly enhanced when parents are actively involved in their children's spiritual development, echoing Rappaport's belief in the importance of a holistic approach to learning. They both stress that Christian education should aim to build a firm foundation in faith that can withstand external pressures and temptations.The episode emphasizes the urgency for parents and congregations to take an active role in the educational process. Rappaport and Grimaldi encourage listeners to consider volunteering at local Christian schools or participating in educational programs that align with their values. They envision a community united in the mission of equipping the next generation with the tools they need to navigate a world that often contradicts their beliefs. Ultimately, this episode serves as both a guide and a challenge to Christians everywhere to prioritize education grounded in biblical principles, ensuring that the youth are not only academically prepared but also spiritually resilient in their faith journey.Takeaways: Dominic Grimaldi emphasizes the importance of parental involvement in children's education at home. Christian education, particularly at institutions like Lagos Christian Academy, fosters a biblical worldview in students. The podcast discusses the rising challenges children face today, including technology and social media distractions. Andrew Rappaport argues that Christian education should be prioritized over public schooling for spiritual development. Both hosts agree on the need for Christian schools to provide a discipleship-oriented education. The conversation highlights the necessity of teaching critical thinking skills in today's educational landscape. Companies mentioned in this episode: Logos Christian Academy Desert Sky Baptist Church Christian Podcast Community Striving for Eternity This podcast is a ministry of Striving for Eternity and all our resources Listen to other podcasts on the Christian Podcast CommunitySupport Striving for EternityLeave us a reviewGive us your feedback, email us info@StrivingForEternity.comGet the book What Do They BelieveGet the book What Do We BelieveSponsors:Squirrelly Joe’s Coffee use the code SFEfor 20% off your purchaseLogos Bible SoftwareMyPillow or call (800) 873-0176 and use promo SFE

Join Andrew Rappaport as he interviews Chance, the founder of 1689 Cigars, in a lively discussion about faith, personal transformation, and the art of cigar making. Chance shares his fascinating journey from growing up in a pagan family, filled with anger and despair, to experiencing a profound conversion through the Gospel. The conversation delves into the intricacies of cigar blending, highlighting the meticulous process behind creating high-quality cigars, which Chance aims to offer at more accessible prices compared to industry giants. As they explore the intersection of faith and business, they emphasize the importance of excellence in Christian entrepreneurship, challenging the stereotype of mediocrity in Christian-produced goods. Throughout the episode, the camaraderie and shared passion for theological discussions shine through, making it a compelling listen for both cigar aficionados and those interested in personal faith journeys.Andrew Rappaport opens the podcast with an engaging introduction to his conversation with Chance, a passionate entrepreneur behind 1689 Cigars. The episode explores Chance's remarkable journey from a turbulent upbringing in a pagan family to his transformative experience with Christianity. Chance shares his past struggles, including feelings of anger and resentment towards God, which culminated in a near-tragic moment that led him to embrace faith. This personal narrative not only sets the stage for his current endeavors but also highlights the profound impact of grace and redemption in his life. The conversation dives deep into theological discussions, emphasizing the transition from a Freewill Baptist perspective to a Reformed understanding, showcasing how Chance's quest for truth led him to his current faith and role as an elder in his church. The dialogue shifts to the heart of Chance's business, 1689 Cigars, where he explains the meticulous blending process of cigars and how he strives to provide top-quality products at an accessible price point. Reflecting on the cigar industry, Chance discusses his commitment to excellence and transparency, contrasting his approach with the often inflated prices and branding strategies of larger companies. He emphasizes the importance of community and fellowship in the cigar culture, which resonates with the broader themes of brotherhood and shared beliefs that permeate the episode. Rappaport and Chance also touch on the importance of doing things with integrity in the Christian business world, challenging the notion that faith should compromise quality or standards. As the podcast unfolds, listeners are treated to a rich tapestry of personal stories, theological insights, and entrepreneurial wisdom. The connection between faith and work is a recurring theme, with Chance's story serving as a testament to the power of faith in guiding one's vocation. The episode culminates in a discussion about community and the joys of fellowship found at conferences, where theological debates and discussions thrive in a spirit of camaraderie. The engaging banter between Rappaport and Chance not only entertains but also invites listeners into a deeper exploration of their faith and the ways it can manifest in various aspects of life, including business and personal relationships.Links referenced in this episode:strivingforeternity.org1689cigars.comThis podcast is a ministry of Striving for Eternity and all our resources Listen to other podcasts on the Christian Podcast CommunitySupport Striving for EternityLeave us a reviewGive us your feedback, email us info@StrivingForEternity.comGet the book What Do They BelieveGet the book What Do We BelieveSponsors:Squirrelly Joe’s Coffee use the code SFEfor 20% off your purchaseLogos Bible SoftwareMyPillow or call (800) 873-0176 and use promo SFE

Rapp Report episode 321 Dusty Devers and Andrew Rappaport engage in a thought-provoking discussion about the necessity of Christians stepping into the political arena, emphasizing that silence in the face of societal decay is not an option. They argue that the separation of faith from public life allows for a moral vacuum that can lead to dire consequences, akin to historical tragedies. Devers shares his journey as a state senator and the importance of being bold in advocating for justice and righteousness, especially regarding issues like abortion. The conversation highlights the need for young men to count the cost before entering politics, balancing their convictions with the realities of public service. Ultimately, they stress the significance of standing firm in one’s faith, not just for personal integrity but for the future generations who will inherit the consequences of today’s decisions.The episode presents a stimulating dialogue between Andrew Rappaport and Dusty Devers, centering on the imperative for Christians to assert their influence in political realms. The discussion is set against the backdrop of the Fight Laugh Feast conference, where both speakers reflect on their experiences and the challenges of maintaining faith-driven convictions in public office. Dusty elaborates on the vital role of integrity in leadership, emphasizing that public servants must embody the virtues they advocate for, especially in the context of defending life and justice. This discussion resonates deeply with the current societal landscape, where the erosion of moral values is increasingly evident in political discourse.Andrew and Dusty delve into the theological foundations of their arguments, positing that Christians are biblically mandated to engage with the culture around them, rather than retreating from it. They discuss the concept of being an 'upstander,' a term that encapsulates the proactive stance Christians should take against injustices and moral failings in society. Dusty shares insights from his own political journey, illustrating how a commitment to faith can shape legislative priorities and influence community standards. Throughout the conversation, they draw parallels between personal accountability and public integrity, urging listeners to reflect on their roles as agents of change in their respective spheres.The episode serves as a clarion call for believers to recognize their potential impact in the political sphere, encouraging them to step forward with confidence and resolve. Dusty offers practical wisdom for those considering a political path, advocating for a foundation of faithfulness in personal and community responsibilities before seeking office. The underlying message is clear: engaging in politics is not merely a civic duty; it is a vital expression of one's faith and commitment to the principles of the Kingdom of God. The dialogue concludes with a heartfelt exhortation to embrace the calling to influence culture, echoing the sentiment that a lack of participation from Christians only paves the way for further secularization.Takeaways: Engaging in politics as a Christian requires counting the cost of public scrutiny. Being involved in local government can significantly influence the culture of your community. Christians should actively participate in political spheres to uphold biblical principles and values. Men must provide leadership in their homes before pursuing roles in public office. True ministry is about glorifying God, not building personal platforms or reputations. The battle for righteousness begins in the home and extends to the public arena. This podcast is a ministry of Striving for Eternity and all our resources Listen to other podcasts on the Christian Podcast CommunitySupport Striving for EternityLeave us a reviewGive us your feedback, email us info@StrivingForEternity.comGet the book What Do They BelieveGet the book What Do We BelieveSponsors:Squirrelly Joe’s Coffee use the code SFEfor 20% off your purchaseLogos Bible SoftwareMyPillow or call (800) 873-0176 and use promo SFE

TC Cook shares his inspiring journey of faith and ministry, highlighting how his experiences as a young Christian shaped his current work at the Southwest Indiana Powerhouse. The conversation delves into the importance of building relationships with youth and the challenges of operating a community-focused organization without federal funding. With a light-hearted tone, TC recounts humorous anecdotes from his past, including his unconventional path to becoming a community leader and his commitment to serving others. The episode also touches on the camaraderie and unity found at the Fight Laugh Feast conference, where diverse Christians come together to discuss theology, culture, and the challenges facing their communities. Through laughter and genuine connection, TC emphasizes the significance of truth and love in fostering a strong Christian community.The Fight Laugh Feast conference provides a vibrant backdrop for an engaging dialogue between TC Cook and Andrew Rapaport, where themes of faith, community, and personal transformation take center stage. TC's narrative begins with a glimpse into his upbringing in a family steeped in Southern Baptist tradition, juxtaposed against the realities of life in a coal mining community. His story is one of resilience and discovery, marked by a significant turning point at the age of 17 when he decided to fully embrace his faith, leading to a drastic life overhaul that included abandoning secular influences in favor of a life centered around Christ.As TC discusses his journey, he reflects on how the Powerhouse youth ministry played a pivotal role in shaping his life. His experiences as a young believer, coupled with mentorship from leaders like Dean Loner, instilled in him a desire to give back to the community. The conversation transitions to TC's current role as a leader at the Powerhouse, where he passionately shares his vision for expanding their outreach efforts to better serve families and at-risk youth. He emphasizes the organization's mission to build lasting relationships and share the gospel, providing a safe haven for young people during critical after-school hours.The episode is marked by a light-hearted tone, with TC and Andrew engaging in playful banter that showcases their friendship while tackling serious topics related to ministry and community engagement. They discuss the importance of unity among believers, even amidst theological differences, and the role of humor in fostering fellowship. The conversation culminates in a reflection on how their individual journeys contribute to a greater purpose within the body of Christ, encouraging listeners to embrace their unique paths while remaining anchored in their faith.Takeaways: T.C. Cook shared his personal journey of faith and transformation from teenage years. The Powerhouse organization plays a critical role in supporting at-risk youth in Indiana. Conferences like Fight Laugh Feast foster unity among diverse Christian denominations despite theological differences. T.C. emphasized the importance of accountability and relationship-building in youth ministry. The podcast aims to address cultural topics with a biblical worldview perspective. Humor and light-hearted banter create a welcoming atmosphere at conferences and gatherings. Links referenced in this episode:washingtonpowerhouse.orgCompanies mentioned in this episode: Living Waters Tesla Powerhouse

The podcast explores the recent election results in America, with a focus on the significant impact of ballot propositions, particularly regarding abortion. Andrew Rapoport and his guest, Matthew, discuss the surprising outcomes in various states, including Florida's Amendment 4, which aimed to expand abortion rights but ultimately faced defeat. They emphasize the importance of not just voting in presidential elections but being actively engaged in local and state propositions that affect Christian values and societal norms. Matthew shares his experiences rallying against Amendment 4 and the challenges faced in organizing efforts. The discussion highlights the need for Christians to remain vigilant and proactive in their communities to counter the ongoing push for progressive agendas.Andrew Rapoport engages in a thought-provoking discussion about the recent political landscape in America, particularly focusing on the implications of recent elections and the ongoing battle over abortion rights. He shares insights into the surprising electoral outcomes, emphasizing the unexpected resilience of conservative values in a climate often perceived as shifting towards liberalism. Rapoport highlights the significant role that various states played in shaping the national conversation on abortion, referencing specific ballot measures that could have far-reaching consequences for pro-life legislation. The dialogue underscores the importance of mobilizing grassroots efforts to combat what Rapoport characterizes as a Marxist agenda that threatens to undermine traditional values. He calls upon listeners to remain vigilant and active in their communities, not only during election cycles but continuously, to effect change and uphold their beliefs.Takeaways: The recent election results indicated a significant shift in voter sentiment against Marxist agendas. Andrew Rapoport emphasized the importance of Christians actively engaging in political discussions. Matthew shared his experiences in mobilizing efforts to defeat Amendment 4 in Florida. The podcast highlighted the necessity for informed voting beyond just presidential elections. The role of local propositions in shaping state laws was a central theme. Both hosts stressed the need for long-term planning in political activism for Christians. This podcast is a ministry of Striving for Eternity and all our resources Listen to other podcasts on the Christian Podcast CommunitySupport Striving for EternityLeave us a reviewGive us your feedback, email us info@StrivingForEternity.comGet the book What Do They BelieveGet the book What Do We BelieveSponsors:Squirrelly Joe’s Coffee use the code SFEfor 20% off your purchaseLogos Bible SoftwareMyPillow or call (800) 873-0176 and use promo SFE

Rapp Report episode 318 This podcast episode focuses on the theme of persecution and how Christians should prepare for it, particularly in light of current societal trends in America. Andrew Rappaport delivers a message derived from 1 Peter 4:12-19, emphasizing the inevitability of fiery trials for believers and the importance of not being surprised by such hardships. He highlights the necessity of maintaining a high view of God to endure suffering, drawing parallels to the experiences of persecuted Christians worldwide. The discussion explores the distinction between righteous suffering for Christ's sake and suffering that arises from personal wrongdoing. Rappaport encourages listeners to embrace their faith boldly, even in the face of potential persecution, and to act as ambassadors for Christ, demonstrating love and resilience amidst adversity.The episode articulates a compelling message on the inevitable reality of persecution for Christians, as derived from 1 Peter 4:12-19. Andrew Rappaport addresses the listeners with a sense of urgency regarding the current societal shifts that threaten the freedoms enjoyed by the church in America. He posits that the upcoming elections could exacerbate the challenges faced by believers, drawing a stark comparison to the historical persecution faced by early Christians who were often marginalized and targeted for their faith. This backdrop sets the stage for a deeper exploration of what it means to suffer for Christ and how that suffering can be viewed through a lens of joy rather than despair.Rappaport dives into the theological implications of suffering, urging believers to embrace their trials as a means of sharing in Christ’s sufferings. He discusses the transformative nature of these experiences, suggesting that they can lead to a greater understanding of God’s glory and grace. The sermon is rich with historical references, recounting stories of martyrs who faced persecution with unwavering faith and courage, illustrating that suffering can indeed be a powerful witness to the truth of the Gospel. Moreover, Rappaport makes a salient point about distinguishing between suffering for righteousness and suffering as a consequence of personal wrongdoing, encouraging self-examination among listeners.As the episode progresses, Rappaport emphasizes the importance of community and love among believers as they navigate these potentially tumultuous times. He calls on Christians to prepare their hearts and minds for the challenges ahead, fostering a spirit of unity and support within the church. The overarching message is one of hope and resilience, reinforcing the idea that while persecution may come, it is not without purpose. By anchoring the discussion in biblical truth, Rappaport inspires listeners to remain steadfast in their faith, to rejoice in their sufferings, and to embody the love of Christ even in the face of adversity.Takeaways: Expect persecution as Christians; it is a common experience worldwide and may intensify in America soon. Our response to suffering should be rooted in a high view of God, which helps us endure trials. Peter's letters advise Christians to prepare spiritually for persecution and to support one another. Suffering for Christ is distinct from suffering due to personal wrongdoing or poor behavior. Rejoicing in suffering for Christ's sake reflects the joy of sharing in his glory. We must recognize the difference between righteous suffering and deserved punishment, ensuring our actions honor God. Links referenced in this episode:strivingforeternity.orgThis podcast is a ministry of Striving for Eternity and all our resources Listen to other podcasts on the Christian Podcast CommunitySupport Striving for EternityLeave us a reviewGive us your feedback, email us info@StrivingForEternity.comGet the book What Do They BelieveGet the book What Do We BelieveSponsors:Squirrelly Joe’s Coffee use the code SFEfor 20% off your purchaseLogos Bible SoftwareMyPillow or call (800) 873-0176 and use promo SFE