Father’s Day – Douglas Jacoby
Posted: February 20, 2020
Watch Doug’s sermon on Exodus 20 – “Honor Your Father”
“Can a Christian be an environmentalist?”
Posted: February 15, 2020
“Caring for Creation” Click here for the newsletter podcast version – with extra ‘bits’ We have seen what I would call “proper weather” this last week. Flights cancelled, trees felled,… Read More
Which Battery Does Your Marriage Run On?
Posted: February 14, 2020
Which Battery Does Your Marriage Run On? Click Here to Listen Items which run on batteries are irritations waiting to happen. Something stops working. You’ve got to find a… Read More
SOM 40—Wow!
Posted: February 9, 2020
And when Jesus finished these sayings, the crowds were astonished at his teaching, for he was teaching them as one who had authority, and not as their scribes (Matthew 7:28-29)…. Read More
SOM 39—Sand
Posted: February 8, 2020
24 “Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock. 25 And the rain fell, and the floods came,… Read More
SOM 38—Lord, Lord
Posted: February 7, 2020
21 “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. 22… Read More
SOM 37—Prophets?
Posted: February 6, 2020
15 “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. 16 You will recognize them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from… Read More
SOM 36—Narrow
Posted: February 5, 2020
“Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate… Read More
SOM 35—Gold
Posted: February 4, 2020
“So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets” (Matthew 7:12). Comment This sentence sums up much of… Read More
SOM 34—Ask
Posted: February 3, 2020
7 “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. 8 For everyone who asks receives, and the… Read More
SOM 33—Swine
Posted: February 2, 2020
“Do not give dogs what is holy, and do not throw your pearls before pigs, lest they trample them underfoot and turn to attack you” (Matthew 7:6). This text connects with… Read More
SOM 32—Judge
Posted: February 1, 2020
1 “Judge not, that you be not judged. 2 For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to… Read More
Bad Plot Summaries
Posted: January 31, 2020
Click Here to Listen Have you read any of the “bad plot summaries” that are going around the internet? For example, here’s a bad plot summary of the Lord of… Read More
SOM 31—Kingdom
Posted: January 31, 2020
33 But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will… Read More
SOM 30—Anxious
Posted: January 30, 2020
25 “Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on…. Read More
SOM 29—Mammon
Posted: January 29, 2020
“No man can serve two masters. For either he will hate the one and love the other. Or else he will hold fast to the one and despise the other…. Read More
SOM 28—Darkness
Posted: January 28, 2020
The lamp of the body is the eye. If therefore your eye is single, your whole body will be full of light. But if your eye is evil, your whole body… Read More
SOM 27—Treasure
Posted: January 27, 2020
Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust consume and where thieves break in and steal. But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where… Read More
SOM 26—Fast
Posted: January 26, 2020
Moreover, when you fast, do not put on a sad face like the hypocrites. For they disfigure their faces so that they may appear to men to fast. Truly I… Read More
SOM 25—Forgive
Posted: January 25, 2020
For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses” (Matthew… Read More
SOM 24—THE Prayer
Posted: January 24, 2020
“Pray then like this: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is… Read More
SOM 23—Prayer
Posted: January 23, 2020
5 “And when you pray, do not be as the hypocrites. For they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, so they may… Read More
SOM 22—Alms
Posted: January 22, 2020
“Thus, when you give to the needy, sound no trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may be praised by others. Truly,… Read More
SOM 21—Show-off!
Posted: January 21, 2020
“Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them, for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven” (Matthew… Read More
SOM 20–Perfection
Posted: January 20, 2020
“You therefore must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect” (Matthew 5:48). On the previous topic, “Enemies:” Jesus, Paul, and the early church spoke clearly and definitively about the… Read More
SOM 19—Enemies
Posted: January 19, 2020
43 “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 44 But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45 so that you may… Read More
SOM 18—Retaliation
Posted: January 18, 2020
38 “You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’39 But I say to you, Do not resist the one who is evil. But if anyone slaps… Read More
SOM 17—Oaths
Posted: January 17, 2020
33 “Again you have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not swear falsely, but shall perform to the Lord what you have sworn.’ 34 But I say to you, Do not take… Read More
SOM 16—Divorce
Posted: January 16, 2020
“It was said, ‘Whoever sends his wife away, let him give her a certificate of divorce’; but I say to you that everyone who divorces his wife, except for the… Read More
SOM 15—Lust
Posted: January 15, 2020
27 “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ 28 But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in… Read More
SOM 14—Anger
Posted: January 14, 2020
You have heard that it was said by those of old, you will not kill; and whoever kills will be in danger of the judgment. But I say to you… Read More
125 Countries and 1 Core Mission – Interview with Douglas Jacoby
Posted: January 13, 2020
Renew.org If you had the opportunity to sit down and talk with a world traveling disciple maker, what questions would you ask? As for me, I was curious about what… Read More
SOM 13—Pharisees
Posted: January 13, 2020
“For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:20). Jesus’ words would probably have… Read More
List of Audio Lessons
Posted: January 12, 2020
Non-members can listen to several of the audio lessons (the Jesus N.T. Character Podcast, A Christian Response to Global Financial Crisis; Serving the Poor: Second Thoughts; Avatar; The Hunger Games, etc.), but… Read More
SOM 12—Fulfillment
Posted: January 12, 2020
17 “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. 18 For truly, I say to… Read More
SOM 11—Light
Posted: January 11, 2020
You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do men light a lamp and put it under a basket, but… Read More
Everyday Disciple Maker: Debbra Stephens
Posted: January 10, 2020
Everyday Disciple Maker: Debbra Stephens CLICK HERE TO LISTEN Whether you work in sales or in a school, whether a preacher or a plumber, there is one… Read More
SOM 10—Salt
Posted: January 10, 2020
“You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt becomes foolish, how will it be salted? It is thereafter good for nothing but to be thrown out and… Read More
SOM 09—Persecuted
Posted: January 9, 2020
“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when men speak abusively of you,… Read More
SOM 08—Peacemaking
Posted: January 8, 2020
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God” (Matthew 5:9). “If most of us are honest with ourselves, we know that there are many… Read More
SOM 07—Pure
Posted: January 7, 2020
“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God” (Matthew 5:8). (1) PURITY: A constant theme in Jesus’ teaching is that God looks not only at… Read More
SOM 06—Merciful
Posted: January 6, 2020
The 5th beatitude: “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy” (Matthew 5:7). My friend David Berçot, who has examined all the ancient Christian writings, helps… Read More
SOM 05—Hungry
Posted: January 5, 2020
“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness / justice, for they will be satisfied.” What does this mean? Consider such passages as: “Man does not… Read More
SOM 04—Meek
Posted: January 4, 2020
“Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.” (Matthew 5:5) “Meek” is a word we seldom use. It does not mean “weak.” It derives from the Old Norse mjúkr,… Read More
Something You Can Never Be
Posted: January 3, 2020
Something You Can Never Be CLICK HERE TO LISTEN Have you ever been told an expression by somebody older than you which makes absolutely no sense to your generation?… Read More
SOM 03—Mourning
Posted: January 3, 2020
“Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted” (Matthew 5:4). In the background there are well over 100 scriptural passages on mourning, like this one, where Jesus identifies himself… Read More
SOM 02—Poor
Posted: January 2, 2020
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs in the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:3). There are at least 20 beatitudes uttered by Jesus in the N.T. (8 in Matthew,… Read More
SOM 01—The Mountain
Posted: January 1, 2020
Seeing the crowds, he went up on the mountain, and when he sat down, his disciples came to him. (Matt 5:1-2 ESV) Mountains in the Bible are associated with Moses (Exod 19-20),… Read More
OT62-The Prophetess Huldah
Posted: January 1, 2020
Hebrew & Greek words: chuldah = mole. See the Huldah Gates (entrance into Temple precinct). nevi’ah = prophetess (Greek prophêtis) navi’ = prophet (Greek prophétēs) Prophetesses of the Bible: Old Testament… Read More
SOM 00—Introduction—It Still Haunts Us
Posted: December 27, 2019
The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) is the section of the New Testament widely agreed to contain the very heart of Jesus’ kingdom message. The teachings were and still are… Read More
“Are You Possessed?”
Posted: November 25, 2019
Sermon given by Doug on 11-24-19 at the North River Church of Christ in Atlanta, GA. https://vimeo.com/375303498
6 Things to Avoid in Dating – Third Drive Faith
Posted: November 14, 2019
Do you have a friend who needs good dating advice? Send this to him or her! Click here for more.
OT61—Michal, Abigail, Bathsheba
Posted: November 1, 2019
Hebrew words: Mikhál = brook ‘Avigail = my father is joy Bath-sheva’ = daughter of the oath David’s wives: Ahinoam, Maachah, Haggith, Abital, Eglah Michal, Abigail, Bathsheba—and possibly more Note: this does not… Read More
Church and Culture, with Christian Ray Flores
Posted: October 23, 2019
Recently I caught up with one of the workshop presenters at our November 6th Gathering, Christian Ray Flores. Christian is a Renew.org co-founder and has an interesting perspective on culture and… Read More
The Top 100 Verses on Money and Wealth
Posted: October 16, 2019
Bookmark the list for Bible study, reference, and sharing with others. Top 100 Bible Verses on Money and Wealth Also see the Topical Index of Money and Wealth Scriptures The latest… Read More
SBC President: We Failed to Heed Victims’ Voices
Posted: October 15, 2019
SBC President J. D. Greear speaks at the ERLC’s Caring Well Conference on October 3.Southern Baptist Convention President J. D. Greear acknowledged that while sexual abuse survivors have pleaded with… Read More
Jesus and His Enemies
Posted: September 22, 2019
My sermon at the North River Church of Christ on Sunday 22 September 2019 (9 am service). Principal texts: Luke 23:34 and Matt 5:38-48. https://vimeo.com/361631498
Shared Church
Posted: September 19, 2019
“. . . members together of one body and sharers together . . .” (Eph. 3:6) Shared Church aims to encourage Christians and churches to practice participatory body life—the one-anothering… Read More
Is Your Church Missing the Communication Train? — by Christian Ray
Posted: September 18, 2019
Ask the tech-savvy youth in your church: How relevant and compelling is our communication? Are we truly engaging the information revolution to communicate the gospel to as many people as… Read More
How a Gay Man and a Christian Minister Became Great Friends
Posted: September 18, 2019
Kidogo – Christian Practicals 2.67K subscribers Guy Hammond used to live a gay life before he became a Christian. Now, as Christian minister, he runs an international ministry dedicated to… Read More
Facts Concerning Social Media Use in 2019
Posted: September 16, 2019
Social Media – A powerful tool https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6k_G_h41ZaQ
Chik-fil-A – “Anti-equality giving”
Posted: September 7, 2019
CHICK-FIL-A GIVING. San Antonio, Texas, and Buffalo, New York, have kicked Chick-fil-A out of their airports for “aiding and abetting Christian organizations.” What is especially ironic is that it is the charity work of… Read More
Understanding Myths That May Hold Us Back
Posted: September 5, 2019
Don’t Be Fooled Into Believing These Final Two GRIEF MYTHS You have taken from me my closest friends and have made me repulsive to them. I am confined and cannot… Read More
OT Character Podcast 60, Mephibosheth
Posted: September 1, 2019
Introduction Our O.T. character today is a minor character. And yet doesn’t mean he isn’t important. The relationship between David and Jonathan (Saul’s son, next in line for the throne)… Read More
Islam & Christianity (lesson from Azerbaijan)
Posted: August 6, 2019
The podcast Islam & Christianity (26 minutes) is intended to help the new student of world religions to develop a feel for how the two faiths connect. This is material I… Read More
“Scripture-Soaked” – message at North River Church
Posted: July 29, 2019
Watch the message given in Atlanta (North River Church) on July 28, 2019. https://vimeo.com/350604112?fbclid=IwAR3vKZU4TYY-ZDZZ61QD6V7gqz5I3cXSCnjFF8f7dKqH4s44SW9HffM-FSs
“A Life Well-Lived: Let’s Be Honest” – from Proverbs
Posted: July 29, 2019
Sermon I did in the Midpoint Ministry (Chicago) on July 21, 2019. (The sermon begins at about 0:38, and ends at 1:12.) https://www.facebook.com/MidpointMinistryCenter/videos/492425961508466/
Más Allá de la Vida 1 & 2, por Arturo Elizarrarás
Posted: July 17, 2019
Podcast 1 Podcast 2 Más Allá de la Vida – Slides
Ebola survivor Dr. Kent Brantly returning to Africa as medical missionary
Posted: July 16, 2019
FORT WORTH, Texas — Dr. Kent Brantly sat on his counselor’s couch and wept. The tears came last summer as the Christian physician visited with Dottie Schulz, a missionary care volunteer… Read More
Control, part 3
Posted: July 3, 2019
TRUST Rom 15:14—confident in church to handle issues of church. I myself am convinced, my brothers and sisters, that you yourselves are full of goodness, filled with knowledge and competent… Read More
Control, part 2
Posted: July 3, 2019
4) Abuse of authority Leaders have authority, but not to create their own rules, or in the language of Jeremiah, “to rule by their own authority” (Jer 5:30-31). “Giving up… Read More
Control, part 1
Posted: July 3, 2019
Jesus called them together and said, “You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so… Read More
When the terrorists came for us | The Christian Chronicle
Posted: July 2, 2019
After his wife became Muslim to appease militant Islamists, he fled with their children — and found Christ. Erik Tryggestad President and CEO DONO-MANGA, Chad — In this rural African village,… Read More
What Does the Bible Say About Being Transgender?
Posted: July 1, 2019
Two New AMAZING Videos From SIW! P.S. Put your seat belt on! #1. What Does the Bible Say bout Being Transgender? By Brandon Redler 3.3 min #2. Why I Left My Transgender Life Behind … Read More
CLEAN – talk 10, the Four Lepers (= OT Character podcast 59)
Posted: July 1, 2019
To listen to lesson 10 in the CLEAN series, The Four Samaritan Lepers (10 minutes), click on the play arrow. Or you can download the podcast by right clicking here and choosing ‘save… Read More
Who Are We? (What we Christ-followers prefer to be called)
Posted: June 26, 2019
WHO ARE WE? SELF-TEST: Rank the following terms in order of usage–what you usually call yourself. Christian Disciple Brother Saint Many of us answered 1-2-3-4, right? But in the New… Read More
“We Are Church,” by Francis Chan
Posted: June 23, 2019
History — We Are Church A Brief History of We Are Church. Excerpt from Letters to the Church, by Francis Chan. Why I Left My Megachurch In 1994, when I… Read More
“Think about it…”
Posted: June 21, 2019
Two twin boys were raised by an alcoholic father. One grew up to be an alcoholic and when asked what happened he said “I watched my father”. The other grew… Read More
Opinion | The Day Christian Fundamentalism Was Born – The New York Times
Posted: June 18, 2019
How a meeting in Philadelphia changed American religion forever. By Matthew Avery Sutton Mr. Sutton, a professor of history at Washington State University, is the author of the forthcoming “Double… Read More
Church Intensive
Posted: June 18, 2019
LEARN CHURCH PLANTING FROM OUR PASTORS a note from francis Haven’t you always been a bit confused about Church? You read about the unstoppable power, miraculous love, and outrageous sacrifice… Read More
The 5 points that led me to leave Calvinism, by Dr. Leighton Flowers
Posted: June 17, 2019
Many have asked what specific points led me away from Calvinism. Being a Professor of Theology that once affirmed TULIP gives me a unique perspective on this subject. However, I… Read More
TheHistoricFaith.com by Sattler College and Scroll Publishing
Posted: June 17, 2019
We are excited to introduce you to TheHistoricFaith.com . The Historic Faith is the result of a partnership between Sattler College and Scroll Publishing. This project seeks to promote the precepts… Read More
Our Manhood Crisis – An Interview with Robert Lewis
Posted: June 17, 2019
Something ominous is happening to young men today; it’s a crisis…and strangely, we are not talking about it. A recent USA Today article captured the essence of the crisis with the article “Boy Crisis Threatens America’s… Read More
Who Was? Series
Posted: June 16, 2019
With over 150 titles, Penguin’s Who Was? series tells the incredible stories of trailblazers, legends, innovators, and creators. Play the Who Was Adventure game! Download the Who Was series app… Read More
Two New iFaith Videos from Hebrews
Posted: June 14, 2019
Two video sermons taken from the book of Hebrews: iFaith 19 (Heb A), “Christ is Supreme,” and iFaith 20 (Heb B), “The Truth about Falling Away”. Listen to either or… Read More
Why Facts Don’t Change Our Minds | The New Yorker
Posted: June 12, 2019
New discoveries about the human mind show the limitations of reason. The vaunted human capacity for reason may have more to do with winning arguments than with thinking straight. Illustration… Read More
The preachers getting rich from poor Americans – BBC News
Posted: June 12, 2019
Televangelist Todd Coontz has a well-worn routine: he dresses in a suit, pulls out a Bible and urges viewers to pledge a very specific amount of money. “Don’t delay, don’t… Read More
Sexual Ethics, Homosexuality and Thoughts on the Passing of my Wife (by Guy Hammond)
Posted: June 7, 2019
Today I get to sit down with the founder of Strength in Weakness Ministries, Guy Hammond, to discuss how to live a life of holiness when you’re same-sex attracted. -… Read More
“Long Distance Faith,” by Douglas Jacoby
Posted: May 10, 2019
Sermon given at the North River Church in Atlanta on Sunday, May 12, 2019. https://vimeo.com/335747367
Is the Holy Land the Promised Land? | The Christian Chronicle
Posted: May 9, 2019
Is the Holy Land the Promised Land? Leading evangelical supporters of President Trump tout the modern state of Israel as a fulfillment of biblical prophecy. Scholars in Churches of Christ… Read More
Terrorists in Burkina Faso Execute Six at Pentecostal Church
Posted: May 3, 2019
(UPDATED) Assemblies of God pastor preferred to “die for his faith rather than leave the village” he served for decades. Kate Shellnutt [Updated May 3 with further remarks from Assemblies… Read More
May News from Tyndale House
Posted: May 3, 2019
May News from Tyndale House Dear friends, At Tyndale House we are passionate about supporting evangelical biblical scholars, and ensuring that Christians across the world benefit from their work. In… Read More
CLEAN – talk 9 (= OT Character Podcast 58, Uzziah pt. II)
Posted: May 1, 2019
To listen to lesson 9 in the CLEAN series, The Leprosy of Uzziah (9 minutes), click on the play arrow. Or you can download the podcast by right clicking here and choosing… Read More
The Samaritan Passover
Posted: April 23, 2019
Growing up in suburban Cincinnati, sacrifices were not part of everyday life. I know, some of you are probably shocked by that revelation. Sacrifices were something I read about in the Bible… Read More
Scriptures that Prove God Condones Homosexuality, by Guy Hammond
Posted: March 22, 2019
A List of All Scriptures that Proves God Condones Homosexuality By Guy Hammond Executive Director; Strength in Weakness Ministries Does God love homosexuals? Of course, God loves everyone! But where… Read More
The Burden-Free Step in Discussing Christian Beliefs, by Greg Koukl
Posted: March 21, 2019
Greg explains the importance of listening and encourages Christians to remember that the one who makes the claim bears the burden. Play the 3-minute video by clicking here, and/or read… Read More
An integrated media evangelism solution for churches
Posted: March 18, 2019
“… so that by all possible means I might save some.” 1 Cor 9:22 Does your church have an integrated and compelling online presence to impact your community? Your church leader needs to focus… Read More
Why Is the Culture of a Disciple Making Church So Important?, by Bobby Harrington
Posted: March 13, 2019
“Culture eats strategy for breakfast.” That statement, attributed to the most influential management guru of our time, Peter Drucker, describes a reality church leaders must face in the pursuit of… Read More
No Cheeks Left to Turn: The Double Persecution of Africa’s Largest Church
Posted: March 10, 2019
Weary of attacks by Boko Haram and Fulani herdsmen, Christians in Nigeria ask how long they’re supposed to “count it all joy.” JEREMY WEBER IN JOS| OCTOBER 19, 2018 Image:… Read More
Non-profit, ‘Sheep Not Goats’ Highlighted on News
Posted: March 8, 2019
Local couple help empower women in Nicaragua, one knitted blanket at a time By: Lorena Inclan Jacksonville, FL March 1, 2019 For Steve and Sandy Jacoby a trip to Nicaragua… Read More
The Book of Ruth
Posted: March 1, 2019
RUTH LESSON NR-MS Taught 20 March 2019 in Marietta, GA (North River Church, Marietta Square Group)
One Way or Any Way? Part 2
Posted: March 1, 2019
by Greg Koukl, March 1, 2019 I do not consider myself a particularly brave person, and I think it especially foolish, on the main, to make a frontal assault on… Read More
CLEAN – talk 8 (= OT Character Podcast 57, Gehazi pt. II)
Posted: March 1, 2019
To listen to lesson 8 in the CLEAN series, The Leprosy of Gehazi (13 minutes), click on the play arrow. Or you can download the podcast by right clicking here and choosing… Read More
Are You Ready to Respond to Pro-Abortion Arguments?
Posted: February 26, 2019
Are You Ready to Respond to Pro-Abortion Arguments? The message being given to us by our culture has moved from the regretful necessity of abortion to the goodness of abortion…. Read More
“Jesus in Gethsemane: The Power of a Prayer of Submission”
Posted: February 25, 2019
Sermon by Douglas Jacoby on Feb. 24, 2019 at the North River Church of Christ. https://vimeo.com/319341234
IC.00-The Imitation of Christ—GATEWAY
Posted: February 2, 2019
ACCESS ALL IMITATION OF CHRIST PODCASTS HERE (scroll down) Since the early 1400s, The Imitation of Christ has been a Christian classic—for many centuries surpassed in printing and sales only by… Read More
IC.31-The Imitation of Christ, 31—Meditating on Death / Final Desire / Eternity
Posted: January 31, 2019
Scripture: Phil 3:14; (1 Macc 2:63); (Sir 7:6); (Sir 38:22); Luke 21:36; Matt 24:44; 2 Cor 6:2; Rom 6:8; Ecc 7:2; Psalm 144:4; Luke 12:33; 16:9; 1 Pet 2:11; Heb… Read More
IC.30-The Imitation of Christ, 30—Coasting / Delight / Free spirit
Posted: January 30, 2019
Scripture: Psalm 43:3-4; 55:6; 34:8; 106:45; 40:5; 19:9; 1 John 2:15; Rom 8:6; Col 3:11; Rom 6:6; Gal 5:17; Psalm 89:9; 44:26; 68:30; (Sir 36:6); Isa 26:3; Matt 6:25-34 Application… Read More
IC.29-The Imitation of Christ, 29—Desiring Eternal Life
Posted: January 29, 2019
Scripture: Phil 1:23-24; Jas 1:17; Rom 8:21; Luke 22:18; Josh 1:6; Eph 4:24; Isa 61:3; Phil 1:20 . Powerful sentences: * “It’s not by your own meditating and striving that… Read More
IC.28-The Imitation of Christ, 28—Rash Judgment & Words
Posted: January 28, 2019
Scripture: Matt 7:1-2; Jas 3:7-9; Matt 26:41; Eph 4:29; John 21:22; Rom 14:12; Ecc 1:14; John 2:25; Rev 3:20; 1 Pet 4:7 . Thought questions: * Am I aware of… Read More
IC.27-The Imitation of Christ, 27—Sensitive Heart
Posted: January 27, 2019
Scripture: Prov 4:23; 19:23; Jas 4:9; Eph 4:29; Col 2:20-23; Psalm 80:5; 75:5. Spiritual focus: * Holy reverence * Discipline * Avoiding senseless humor (flippancy) * Cultivating spiritual sensitivity. * Clear… Read More
IC.26-The Imitation of Christ, 26—Security / Temptation
Posted: January 26, 2019
Scripture: 2 Cor 6:7; Psalm 91:14; Rev 2:17; Rom 8:18; Psalm 27:14; Psalm 91:15; Job 7:1; 1 Pet 5:8; Jas 1:14; Col 1:11; (Sir 31:26); 1 Cor 10:13; (Jud 8:17); Luke… Read More
IC.25-The Imitation of Christ, 25—Reading the Holy Scriptures
Posted: January 25, 2019
Scriptures: 2 Tim 3:16; Heb 13:9; Psalm 117:2; Heb 1:1; Rom 2:11 Ten thoughts: * We shouldn’t seek novelty for novelty’s sake. The gospel is seldom advanced through curious, shocking,… Read More
IC.24-The Imitation of Christ, 24—Exercises of a Righteous Person
Posted: January 24, 2019
Scripture: 2 Pet 1:5-8; Prov 16:9; Jer 10:23; Heb 12:1; Eph 6:11; Rom 8:18; Luke 12:37,42 Application: * Daily renewal: Begin the day the right way! * Stay busy. Redeem… Read More
IC.23-The Imitation of Christ, 23—Peaceableness / Purity / Conscience
Posted: January 23, 2019
Scripture: Gal 5:22-23; Eph 4:2; Gal 6:2; Rom 12:18; Phil 4:8; Rom 2:9; 1 Pet 3:16; Isa 57:20-21; 2 Cor 1:12; 7:4; 1 John 3:21; Isa 48:22; Mic 3:11; Psalm… Read More
IC.22-The Imitation of Christ, 22—Peace of Mind / Solitude & Silence
Posted: January 22, 2019
Scripture: John 14:27; Matt 3:10; Gal 2:20; 5:24; 6:14; 2 Tim 2:4; Rev 2:4; Psalm 37:7; Mark 6:31; Luke 5:16; 2 Cor 1:12; Psalm 4:4; 1 John 2:17; Prov 23:32;… Read More
IC.21-The Imitation of Christ, 21—Bearing with Others
Posted: January 21, 2019
Scriptures: Luke 11:4; Gen 50:20; Titus 3:10; Gal 6:2,5; 2 Cor 3:5; Prov 3:7; Col 3:13; 1 Thess 5:11 . Application: * We often operate under a double standard, wanting others… Read More
IC.20-The Imitation of Christ, 20—Confidence of Grace
Posted: January 20, 2019
Scripture: Jas 1:17; Nah 1:7; Matt 11:28; Jer 32:27; 1 Pet 5:10; Num 23:19; Ps 40:1; Matt 8:7; 6:34; John 14:27; 14:1; Ps 44:21; John 15:9; Luke 8:15; 2 Cor… Read More
Ministry in the #MeToo Moment
Posted: January 19, 2019
As abuse awareness grows, pastors are searching for ways to protect the vulnerable and care for survivors. MORGAN LEE @Mepaynl Image: Davide Bonazzi / Salzmanart Last summer Stephanie Lobdell, co-lead pastor… Read More
No Sign Language in the World Has Its Own Bible Translation
Posted: January 19, 2019
Deaf communities around the world are still waiting to experience God’s Word in their first language. How much longer will it be? Donations from the 40,000 attendees at this year’s… Read More
IC.19-The Imitation of Christ, 19—Contempt of Worldly Knowledge
Posted: January 19, 2019
Scripture: 1 Cor 1:26-27; 2 Tim 4:3; Num 16; Ps 94:10; 119:100,130; Col 3:4; Zeph 1:12; 1 Cor 4:5,20; 12:11. . Application: * “Sweet-sounding compliments”: beware flattery, and people lowering… Read More
IC.18-The Imitation of Christ, 18—Guard of Humility / Thinking Humbly
Posted: January 18, 2019
Scripture: 1 Pet 5:5-6; Matt 6; Jer 10:23; Ps 91:4; Rom 11:25; 12:3; 1 Cor 13:1-3; Rom 11:20; 12:3; Jas 3:1 Practical application: * We should be modest about our… Read More
Large Numbers of Young Adults Dropping Out of Church
Posted: January 17, 2019
Young adults are dropping out of church in large numbers, survey finds. This is why. www.usatoday.com 3 mins read ASHVILLE, Tenn. —Large numbers of young adults who frequently attended Protestant worship services in… Read More
Churches & Race
Posted: January 17, 2019
Christian churches still struggle with race, how to discuss it, what to do www.usatoday.com 10 mins read CINCINNATI — On a Wednesday night at Crossroads Church in the Cincinnati neighborhood Corryville,… Read More
IC.17-The Imitation of Christ, 17—Over-anxiety / Holy examples
Posted: January 17, 2019
Scripture: Ps 37:4 Matt 26:41 Heb 12:1; 6:12; 11:1-40 John 12:25 Application (10 areas): * Learn from those who have gone before us (in church history, the O.T., and even… Read More
Focus on Gardening, by Greg Koukl
Posted: January 16, 2019
Greg encourages Christians for whom evangelism seems overwhelming to focus on small opportunities of influence rather than “sealing the deal.” Look forward to more Mentoring Moments from Greg in the… Read More
IC.16-The Imitation of Christ, 16—Benefits of Obedience / Self-denial / Surrender
Posted: January 16, 2019
Scripture: Jas 1:22-25; Ezek 20:19; Eph 5:17; Gren 32:10; 1 Cor 4:7; Rom 2:11; Jas 2:5; Ps 45:16; 1 Pet 2:1; Acts 5:41; Luke 14:10; Matt 16:24-25; Phil 2:21; Ezra… Read More
IC.15-The Imitation of Christ, 15—Obedience / Earthly Affections
Posted: January 15, 2019
Scriptures: 1 John 5:2-3; Prov 12:15; Rom 14:17 Insights for Life: * “It is far safer to live under authority than to be in a place of authority.” * “It… Read More
IC.14-The Imitation of Christ, 14—Bearing Injuries / Christ’s Obedience
Posted: January 14, 2019
Scriptures: Rom 8:17-18; Heb 12:4; 2 Tim 2:5; Luke 18:27; John 15:9-10; Ps 18:42; Jas 2:20; 1 Sam 16:21; Ezek 20:17; Gen 2:7 Application questions: 1. Do I react differently… Read More
IC.13-The Imitation of Christ, 13—Loss of all comfort
Posted: January 13, 2019
Scripture: Phil 4:11-13; Ps 30:6-8,10-11; Job 7:18; Rev 2:7. Practical application: (1) Don’t allow ourselves to lose faith or perspective just because we are going through hard times. (2) Don’t… Read More
IC.12-The Imitation of Christ, 12—Human Misery / Weakness
Posted: January 12, 2019
Scriptures: Phil 3:7-9; Ps 73; Ps 25:17; 2 Cor 6:2; Heb 10:36; 2 Cor 5:4; 1 Thess 5:3; Prov 30:7-9; Col 3:1-4; Ps 32:5; 40:2; 69:14; 1 John 2:15: Job… Read More
IC.11-The Imitation of Christ, 11—Not Trusting Self / Trusting God
Posted: January 11, 2019
Scriptures: Matt 7:3; 16:26: Jer 34:24; Ps 119:137; 19:9; Rom 11:33; 1 Cor 14:33; Ps 21:3; Rom 8:29; Jn 15:16,19; Gal 1:15; Matt 18:10; Rev 4:10; Matt 18:1; 1 Jn… Read More
IC.10-The Imitation of Christ, 10—Knowledge / Wisdom / Not believing everyone
Posted: January 10, 2019
Scriptures: Rom 1:21; (Sir 19:14; 14:1; 34:9); (Tob 4:18); Ps 60:11; 37:39; (Wis 1:1); John 14:6; Rom 3:4; Matt 10:17,36; 24:23); James 3:1; Phil 3:4-8. Application: Types of information of… Read More
IC.09-The Imitation of Christ, 9—Hearing God’s Words
Posted: January 9, 2019
Scripture: John 16:13-14; Ps 94:19; John 12:48; Mic 6:8; Gen 17:1; (Wis 1:1); John 8:32; Ps 25:5; 1 John 3:22; (Tob 3:5); Ps 119:20; (2 Macc 7:38); (Sir 11:4); Isa… Read More
IC.08-The Imitation of Christ, 8—Selfish Love
Posted: January 8, 2019
Scripture: Ecc 2:11; 1 John 2:17; Ps 51:12; Eph 3:16; Eph 4:14. (Also Wis 9:4) Key phrases: * “In captivity”: True freedom is found in Christ, not the world. *… Read More
IC.07-The Imitation of Christ, 7—Futile Hope
Posted: January 7, 2019
Scriptures: * 2 Cor 4:18 * Romans 12:3,16 * James 4:6 * John 15:4 * 1 Cor 4:7 * Matt 11:7 * Isa 40:6. Practicals: Be willing to take on… Read More
IC.06-The Imitation of Christ, 6—Intimate Love of Jesus
Posted: January 6, 2019
How close do I feel to God? We are called to love him with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength. This is the first and greatest commandment. The church… Read More
Origins — a book on the issues behind Genesis 1-11
Posted: January 5, 2019
Origins turns much of what Christians learned in Sunday School on its head in a revealing comparison of the Genesis narrative to the competing pagan narrative of the day. Relatively few… Read More
IC.05-The Imitation of Christ, 5—Power of Divine Love
Posted: January 5, 2019
To have a sensitive heart receptive to divine love, we must keep our consciences clear as we live for God (1 Tim 1:5,19). Scripture: Eph 3:17-18; 2 Cor 1:3; Ps… Read More
Ibram Kendi – Are You An Intellectual?
Posted: January 4, 2019
Ibram Kendi breaks down what it really means to be the smartest person in the room. For more information: Antiracist Research and Policy Center at American University. Watch this podcast… Read More
IC.04-The Imitation of Christ, 4—The Royal Way
Posted: January 4, 2019
“The simplicity of the book’s language and the direct appeal to the religious sensitivity of the individual in an uncomplicated way are perhaps the primary reasons why this little book… Read More
IC.03-The Imitation of Christ, 3—Taking Up Jesus’ Cross
Posted: January 3, 2019
The world of the 1420s is radically different from our modern world! Europe is still recovering from the Black Death (1347-1349), which took the lives of easily a third of… Read More
IC.02-The Imitation of Christ, 2—Offering Ourselves
Posted: January 2, 2019
The structure of James Watkins’ arrangement (encompassing 90 of the 114 chapters in The Imitation of Christ) is: I. Imitating Christ (Introduction) — 5 chapters II. Imitating Christ’s Character –… Read More
IC.01-The Imitation of Christ, 1—Imitating Christ, Despising Vanity
Posted: January 1, 2019
Book I, Chapter I Imitating Christ and Despising All Vanities on Earth . 1. HE WHO follows Me, walks not in darkness,” says the Lord (John 8:12). By these words… Read More
CLEAN – talk 7 (= OT character podcast 56, Naaman)
Posted: January 1, 2019
To listen to lesson 7 in the CLEAN series, The Leprosy of Naaman (14 minutes), click on the play arrow. Or you can download the podcast by right clicking here and choosing ‘save target… Read More
Human Embryo Gene Editing: Deep Concerns from Francis Collins
Posted: December 28, 2018
Human Embryo Gene Editing: We Need To Think This Through Carefully (An Interview with Francis Collins) In a recent podcast segment with Francis Collins, we asked about human embryo gene editing…. Read More
Two Common Mistakes Preachers Make (by John Piper)
Posted: December 10, 2018
Two Common Mistakes Preachers Make: Searching for Reality in Sermons John Piper takes one simple verse in Romans and shows two major and prevalent mistakes preachers make today. www.desiringgod.org
Stepping into the Jordan
Posted: December 6, 2018
The Ministry of Rob Kranz All incoming students at JUC are required to take “Physical Settings of the Bible.” This is classified as a geography course, yet the content is… Read More
Merry Christmas in 100 Different Languages
Posted: December 4, 2018
Click HERE to learn how to say Merry Christmas in 100 languages! Infographic via DayTranslations.com
CLEAN – talk 6 (= OT character podcast 55, Miriam pt. II)
Posted: November 1, 2018
To listen to lesson 6 in the CLEAN series, The Leprosy of Miriam (17 minutes), click on the play arrow. Or you can download the podcast by right clicking here and… Read More
My Favorite Mistranslation (Proverbs 22:6) – Douglas Stuart
Posted: October 25, 2018
To listen to this podcast, click here.
What Was the Sin of Sodom and Gomorrah?
Posted: October 18, 2018
It’s become popular to claim that the sin of Sodom and Gomorrah was something other than homosexuality. What does the Bible say? Read an extended explanation of this topic here.
Untangling Addiction – a free download
Posted: October 10, 2018
Dr. De Carvalho is passionate about helping people regain their lives and become “unstuck” from the addictions and mental illnesses that have kept them in the darkness. In his new… Read More
Be Flexible – Sermon by Douglas Jacoby
Posted: October 3, 2018
Sermon given at the North River church on Sunday, September 30, 2018
The Cassandra Curse | Hidden Brain : NPR
Posted: September 23, 2018
After a disaster happens, we want to know, could something have been done to avoid it? Did anyone see this coming? Many times, the answer is yes. There was a… Read More
Origins (Genesis 1-11) — O.T. Scholars Weigh In
Posted: September 19, 2018
Philosopher and Christian apologist Paul Copan and I have written a book on early Genesis. See what Old Testament scholars are saying about Origins. . “Genesis 1–11 is the foundation… Read More
The Statement on Social Justice and the Gospel – response by Michael Burns
Posted: September 18, 2018
Note: the smaller navy blue text is Michael Burns’s response. Recently a group of American evangelical leaders signed and released a statement on social justice to voice concerns that they have over… Read More
The Life of Jesus (Pt. I and Pt. II)
Posted: September 14, 2018
Cape Town, South Africa, 9 Sept 2018 In this session (consisting of two parts) Douglas Jacoby paints an outstanding picture as to the life and context of Jesus as a… Read More
9 facts on the End-times
Posted: September 12, 2018
1 Thess 5:1—Don’t get caught up in predictions. These are futile. William Miller Adventists Jehovah’s Witnesses 88 Reasons the Rapture Will Happen in 1988 Eschatology = the study of the… Read More
Why America’s ‘nones’ don’t identify with a religion
Posted: September 11, 2018
By Becka A. Alper, www.pewresearch.org A growing share of Americans are religiously unaffiliated. We recently asked a representative sample of more than 1,300 of these “nones” why they choose not to identify with a religion. Out… Read More
Global Persecution
Posted: September 5, 2018
From Attalia they sailed back to Antioch, where they had been committed to the grace of God for the work they had now completed. On arriving there, they gathered the… Read More
OT54 – The Ethiopian Eunuchs (= NT character podcast 56)
Posted: September 1, 2018
To hear the talk on The Ethiopian Eunuchs (25 minutes), click the play arrow. You can download it from here. This podcast is O.T. character podcast 54 and N.T. character… Read More
Preferring Infertility, by Abigail Dodds
Posted: August 29, 2018
How We Worship the Queen of Heaven What must God think of a society that has made child sacrifice normal for the sake of elective infertility? Read here.
Storyline: Strength in Weakness
Posted: August 29, 2018
Christian Ray Flores tells the story of Max Agapitov – weightlifting world champion. Watch video here.
Ministry
Posted: August 29, 2018
I. Who is in the ministry”?” II. What is “the ministry”? III. Does it matter what we call it? Listen to the podcast to find out the answers to these… Read More
African teaching ministry, by Gilbert Kimeng
Posted: August 13, 2018
Gilbert Kimeng 9 August 2018 Kinshasa, D.R.C. The past 10 days spent in the company of Dr. Douglas Jacoby has been transformational. He arrived Lagos on Monday July 30th, and… Read More
iFaith video sermon list
Posted: August 7, 2018
MASTER DOCUMENT: iFaith Bible Project 0622 In this series we will proceed more or less chronologically through the New Testament and the Old Testament. There are 119 video messages, being recorded… Read More
Evangelical Black Exodus, by Danny Anderson
Posted: August 4, 2018
Listen to this podcast by clicking on link, and choosing Review 81. https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-sectarian-review/id1031613670?mt=2
Are We at War with Muslims?, by Alan Schlemon
Posted: July 31, 2018
When the topic of violent jihad comes up, the first thing I hear most Muslims say is that they don’t practice violence, nor do most Muslims they know. Islam is… Read More
Cool quotes from Socrates, Plato, & Aristotle
Posted: July 10, 2018
The beginning of wisdom is a definition of terms. I cannot teach anybody anything. I can only make him think. I am not an Athenian, nor a Greek, but a… Read More
“Filling & Following,” sermon by Douglas Jacoby
Posted: July 9, 2018
7-8-2018 Douglas Jacoby “Filling and Following” at the North River Church of Christ, Marietta, Georgia, USA
OT53-Rahab (CJ Jones)
Posted: July 1, 2018
For the O.T. Character Study, Rahab (27 minutes), click on the play button below: To download the podcast, right click on “download” and select “save link as” or “save target… Read More
Black Panther
Posted: June 13, 2018
In April [2018] someone asked me if I’d seen Black Panther. I had heard of it, but admitted I wasn’t particularly interested in yet another superhero movie. “I’ll probably watch… Read More
France Erases Christianity from Public View
Posted: June 12, 2018
Used with permission from John Clayton and Does God Exist? (Vol. 45, no. 1, 2018) FRANCE ERASES CHRISTIANITY FROM PUBLIC VIEW If you remember studying the history of France, you… Read More
The Wit and Wisdom of Ancient Jewish Graffiti – Atlas Obscura
Posted: June 10, 2018
Researchers in the field have uncovered related messages ranging from “Lasius is a pervert” to “Good luck in your resurrection.” Read more here.
Q&A 1528 – Santa Claus and the Faith of Small Children
Posted: May 25, 2018
I often wonder about how it will affect my daughter when she finds out that Santa is not real. She associates Christmas with Santa and with Jesus. When she finds… Read More
Where Does God Want Me to Work?, by David Mathis
Posted: May 23, 2018
David Mathis leads us in finding God’s will through three major factors. Read here.
“Mother’s Day Reflection,” by Douglas Jacoby
Posted: May 14, 2018
Message given at the North River Church of Christ on Sunday, May 13, 2018 at the 9 & 11am services.
OT52-Jonah.mp3
Posted: May 1, 2018
For O.T. Lesson 52, Jonah (25 minutes), click on the play button below: To download the podcast, right click on “download” and select “save link as” or “save target as” and… Read More
Sheep Not Goats Newsletter for April 2018
Posted: April 30, 2018
Attached is the latest newsletter about what’s happening in Nicaragua, including all the Sheep Dreamzzz blankets being made and the breakfasts for the elderly that are held in Malpaisillo every Thursday morning…. Read More
Ezekiel comment, by Peter Craigie
Posted: April 19, 2018
“The concluding verses of the book indicate the wholeness and completeness of the prophet’s vision and ministry as a whole. From one perspective, it is a sad book; it begins… Read More
Thrive – Jacoby lesson for NECC
Posted: April 1, 2018
NECC Thrive The file is the .pdf (3 pages) accompanying the class recorded for the 2018 NECC (Northeast Christian Conference, Providence RI, July 2018). Here is the audio file (58… Read More
Did Seinfeld and Letterman ruin us?
Posted: March 24, 2018
Article by Tony Reinke, Senior writer, desiringGod.org My generation was raised on The Simpsons. The popular cartoon is postmodern TV at its finest: liberated from prolonged storylines, a series of jests… Read More
The Passover 1: Hurry!
Posted: March 19, 2018
Sermon given by Douglas Jacoby at the North River Church of Christ on March 18, 2018, based on Exodus 12.
“I Am an Arab and I Am a Christian: An Autobiography”
Posted: March 6, 2018
Former Muslim shows Islam from the inside. by David Duncan Many well-written books on Islam have appeared in the years since 9/11. So have many not-so-great books, written from a… Read More
OT51-Amos.mp3
Posted: March 1, 2018
For O.T. Lesson 51, Amos (26 minutes), click on the play button below: To download the podcast, right click on “download” and select “save link as” or “save target as” and… Read More
Series on John (daily study)
Posted: February 23, 2018
The 2018 series is A Tour Through John. Length: 50 days. Units average about 20 minutes, just right if you have to go to work early, or want to listen as you… Read More
An Update on Cathy Hammond’s health
Posted: February 21, 2018
Dear friend of the Hammonds and the Strength in Weakness ministry, Many have asked about my wife’s health, thank you. Cathy remains seriously ill. In spite of the… Read More
A Tour Through John, Lesson 49
Posted: February 18, 2018
Lesson 49 is the third podcast in a series of 3 introducing the Revelation of John. Click on the arrow to play the podcast (9 minutes), or right click here, save and… Read More
A Tour Through John, Lesson 48
Posted: February 17, 2018
Rev B is the middle podcast in a series of 3 introducing the Revelation of John. Click on the arrow to play the podcast (17 minutes), or right click here,… Read More
A Tour Through John, Lesson 47
Posted: February 16, 2018
Click on the arrow to play the podcast (13 minutes), or right click here, save and listen later. (1) General 1 Paul 87 chapters ~ 1/4 of NT 2 Luke 52… Read More
A Tour Through John, Lesson 46 (verses)
Posted: February 15, 2018
Click on the arrow to play the podcast (8 minutes), or right click here, save and listen later. Scripture for memory 1 John 1:7 — But if we walk in the… Read More
A Tour Through John, Lesson 45
Posted: February 14, 2018
Click on the arrow to play the podcast (23 minutes), or right click here, in order to download, save, and listen later. 1 The elder to the beloved Gaius, whom I… Read More
The Future Computed
Posted: February 13, 2018
Artificial Intelligence and its role in society, by Brad Smith and Harry Shum. Read the article here.
A Tour Through John, Lesson 44
Posted: February 13, 2018
Click on the arrow to play the podcast (15 minutes), or right click here, in order to download, save, and listen later. 2 John has been called “1 John in miniature.” As… Read More
A Tour Through John, Lesson 43
Posted: February 12, 2018
Two of the most encouraging verses in the Bible are found in 1 John 5. Verse 3 says God’s commands aren’t burdensome. Walking in the light—and basking in it—isn’t only… Read More