THE DAILY BIBLE PODCAST

A Forbidden Frontier! Jesus takes His disciples on their first mission trip, and WOW, it was one to remember! Setting the Scene: Imagine the scene: Jesus and his disciples, crammed into a small fishing boat, battling the waves and wind of the Sea of Galilee. They're headed to the other side, a region known as the Decapolis. This wasn't just any old trip across the lake. The Decapolis was a land of ten cities, a melting pot of Hellenistic culture, and largely Gentile. For devout Jews, it was considered unclean, a place to avoid. Think of it as the "wild west" of Jesus' time – a place with different rules, different gods, and a whole lot of unknowns. Luke, writing to a Gentile audience, uses the broader regional name "Gerasenes" to identify the location, a term his readers would readily recognize. Mark and Matthew, writing for Jewish audiences, use more specific city names within the Decapolis. This highlights how the Gospel writers tailored their accounts to resonate with their specific readers. (Interesting tidbit: This region is likely the same "far off land" Jesus refers to in the parable of the Prodigal Son who squanders his inheritance working for a pig farmer! Talk about a culture shock!) A Man in Chains: As they land, they're met with a sight that would make even the bravest fisherman tremble. A demon-possessed man, naked and uncontrollable, emerges from the tombs. This man was an outcast, living among the dead, tormented by unseen forces. The text tells us he was so strong that no chains could hold him. This wasn't just a mental illness; this was a spiritual battleground. (Historical context: In the ancient world, mental illness was often attributed to demonic possession. While we now have a better understanding of mental health, this story still speaks to the power of Jesus to heal and restore brokenness, both physical and spiritual.) Pigs and Plunges: The encounter takes a dramatic turn. The demons, recognizing Jesus' authority, beg him not to torment them. Instead, they ask to be sent into a herd of pigs nearby. Jesus grants their request, and the pigs, in a frenzy, rush down a steep bank into the lake and drown. (Cultural Insight: Pigs were considered unclean animals by Jews. Allowing the demons to enter the pigs would have been seen as a fitting judgment, further emphasizing the contrast between the purity of Jesus and the uncleanness of the demonic.) The herdsmen, terrified, flee to the city and spread the news of what they've seen. The townspeople, curious and perhaps afraid, come out to see Jesus. And what they find is the formerly demon-possessed man, clothed and in his right mind, sitting at Jesus' feet. An Unexpected Mission: Fear grips the people, and they plead with Jesus to leave their region. The healed man, however, begs to go with Jesus. But Jesus has a different plan. He tells the man, "Return home and tell how much God has done for you." This instruction contrasts with Jesus' typical command to those he healed in Galilee to remain silent. Why the difference? Perhaps Jesus recognized that the Decapolis, far removed from the religious and political tensions of Galilee, was fertile ground for the Gospel. This man, a living testament to Jesus' power, could freely proclaim the good news without fear of reprisal. Jesus may have also wanted to avoid further escalating tensions with the Jewish religious leaders in Galilee before his time. QUESTIONS FOR YOU TO Chew on and Discuss: 1) Why do you think Jesus chose to go to the Decapolis, a place considered unclean by Jewish standards? 2) What does this story teach us about the power of Jesus over spiritual forces? 3) How does the healed man's mission differ from the instructions Jesus gave to others he healed in Galilee? What might be the reasons for this difference? Journey Group Discussion Starter: Share a time when you felt like an outcast or experienced a situation where you felt completely out of your element. How did that experience shape your perspective? How can this story encourage us to reach out to those who feel marginalized or different? Applying the Principles in your REAL LIFE: This passage challenges us to step outside our comfort zones and engage with those who are different from us. It reminds us that Jesus' love and power extend to all people, regardless of their background or circumstances. Here are some practical ways to apply this passage: --- Reach out to someone who is struggling with mental health challenges. Offer a listening ear, support, and prayer. --- Challenge your own prejudices and biases. Make an effort to connect with people from different cultures or backgrounds. --- Share your faith story with others. Don't be afraid to tell people how God has worked in your life. #dailybiblepodcast #gospelofluke #jesusjourney #yourfaith #missiontrip #followjesus #learnthebible #bibleforeveryone #bibleverse #christianpodcast

Did you know we have ONLINE SMALL GROUPS? Click this link to learn more about our Journey Groups - You can join an existing group - OR - we would love to help you start a new one. LEARN MORE 👉🏻 https://www.yourjesusjourney.com/journeygroups Now On to Today's STORMY Devotional... Setting the Scene: A Wild Ride with the Master Imagine yourself crammed into a small fishing boat on the Sea of Galilee. It's not a luxury yacht; picture something closer to a sturdy rowboat, maybe 25 feet long. You're packed in with Jesus and a bunch of other disciples, the air thick with the smell of fish and sweat. The gentle rocking of the waves lulls you into a sense of peace... and maybe even a nap. This is the scene in Luke 8:19-21. Jesus, exhausted from teaching and healing, is catching some shut-eye. But the Sea of Galilee is known for its sudden, violent storms. And wouldn't you know it, one rolls in with a vengeance! Waves crash over the bow, wind howls, and the little boat is tossed around like a toy. Now, these disciples were seasoned fishermen. They knew the lake, they knew boats, but this storm... this was different. Fear grips their hearts, and they frantically wake Jesus. "Master, Master, we're going to drown!" Jesus, calm as can be, rises and rebukes the wind and the raging waters. Silence. The storm stops dead in its tracks, leaving behind an eerie calm and a boatload of stunned disciples. This wasn't the first time they'd seen Jesus do something miraculous. They'd witnessed healings, deliverances, even resurrections. But this? This was controlling the very forces of nature! No wonder they were filled with awe and a touch of holy terror. Historical Tidbit: If you ever get the chance to visit Israel, check out the museum on the Sea of Galilee. They have an ancient fishing boat on display – the kind Jesus and his disciples would have used. It really brings this story to life! Link to the YouTube Video Shared in the Devo Today: https://youtu.be/lQ0cwzUkmWc?si=pDXUgjawabGsor-5 QUESTIONS FOR YOU TO Chew on and Discuss: 1) Why do you think the disciples were so afraid, even though they had seen Jesus perform so many miracles? Was it the suddenness of the storm? The feeling of helplessness? Or something deeper? 2) How does this passage demonstrate Jesus' authority over all creation? What does this tell us about His power and His identity? 3) Have you ever experienced a "storm" in your life where you felt like you were going to drown? Did you cry out to Jesus? How did He respond? Discussion Starter for your Journey Group: Imagine you're one of the disciples in the boat. Describe the storm, your feelings of fear, and your reaction when Jesus calmed the storm. How did this experience change your view of Jesus? Applying the Principles in Your Real Life: This passage offers powerful lessons for us today: - Jesus is in control, even when we feel like our world is falling apart. Just like He calmed the storm, He can bring peace to the chaos in our lives. - Don't be afraid to wake Jesus up! He's always there for us, ready to hear our cries and intervene. - Remember that Jesus is Lord of all, even the wind and the waves. This should give us confidence and hope, even in the face of overwhelming challenges. Call to Action: Don't get caught in a storm without your lifeline! Join a Journey group and experience the peace of knowing Jesus is in your boat. We promise, no actual storms or cramped fishing boats required. To connect with a journey group or learn more about starting one, email us at yourjesusjourney@gmail.com. We're waiting to hear from you! (But seriously, don't wait until you're in the middle of a life-storm to reach out. We'd prefer to connect before things get too wild.) Not ready to reach out via Email but want to learn more? Go Here and Read all About it Right Now: https://www.yourjesusjourney.com/journeygroups #dailybiblepodcast #biblepodcast #dailybiblereading #dailybibleverse #followjesus #jesusjourney #gospelofluke #christianpodcast #christianfaith #storms

Please Learn About Journey Groups 👉🏻 https://www.yourjesusjourney.com/journeygroups Today's Devo is all about Redefining FAMILY from Luke 8:19-21 Setting the Scene: Imagine the scene: a bustling crowd pressing in on Jesus, eager to catch every word falling from His lips. He's been teaching, captivating them with parables and powerful truths. People from all over have gathered, drawn by His reputation and the hope His words ignite. Among the throng are His own mother and brothers, unable to even reach Him because of the sheer number of people. They send a message, hoping to get His attention. This seemingly ordinary moment becomes a profound teaching opportunity for Jesus. He doesn't dismiss His earthly family, but He elevates the concept of spiritual kinship, declaring, "My mother and brothers are those who hear God's word and put it into practice" (Luke 8:21). In a culture where family ties were paramount, this statement would have been shocking. Respect for parents and elders was deeply ingrained, and family loyalty was fiercely protected. Jesus, however, redefines "family," expanding it beyond bloodlines to encompass all who embrace and obey His teachings. He's not diminishing the importance of earthly family, but He's highlighting the even greater significance of spiritual family – those united by faith and obedience to God. This scene echoes throughout Scripture. In Mark 3:31-35, we encounter a similar situation where Jesus, surrounded by the crowd, responds to His family's request to see Him with the same message about spiritual kinship. Matthew 12:46-50 also recounts this event, emphasizing that doing the will of God is what truly makes one a part of Jesus' family. QUESTIONS FOR YOU TO Chew on and Discuss: 1) Why do you think Jesus made this seemingly radical statement about His family? What was He trying to convey to the crowd? 2) How does this passage challenge our understanding of "family"? 3) In what ways can we prioritize our spiritual family while still honoring our earthly family? Discussion Starter for your Journey Group: Think about your own life. Who are the people you consider to be your "spiritual family"? How have they influenced your faith journey? 🐇 Rabbit Trail Scriptures about FAMILY: - Matthew 12:46-50, Mark 3:31-35: Parallel accounts of Jesus' teaching on spiritual kinship. - Galatians 3:28: Paul emphasizes the unity of all believers in Christ, regardless of their background. - Ephesians 2:19: Believers are described as "members of God's household." - Romans 8:16-17: Those who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God and co-heirs with Christ. - 1 John 3:1: John highlights the incredible love of God in calling us His children. Applying the Principle: This passage reminds us that our relationship with Jesus should be the defining factor in our lives. While honoring our earthly families is important, our commitment to Christ and His teachings must take precedence. We can demonstrate this by: - Prioritizing time spent with our spiritual family: Actively participate in a church community, join a small group, or find other ways to connect with fellow believers. - Living out our faith daily: Let our actions reflect our commitment to Christ, both in our interactions with other believers and in the world around us. - Sharing the Gospel with others: Invite others into the family of God by sharing the good news of Jesus Christ. A Bear-y Bad Day: In 2 Kings 2, some young men mock the prophet Elisha, calling him "baldhead." Elisha curses them in the name of the Lord, and two bears come out of the woods and maul 42 of them. WHAT DID THAT 👆🏻 HAVE TO DO WITH THIS DEVO? Nothing... 😂 Don't be left out in the cold like Jesus' family in this passage! Join a Journey Group and experience the warmth and support of your spiritual family. We promise, there's plenty of room, and no one will be left standing outside wishing they could hear what's going on inside. To connect with a Journey Group or learn more about starting one, email us at yourjesusjourney@gmail.com. Don't delay; your spiritual family is waiting to welcome you! #dailybiblepodcast #biblepodcast #christianpodcast #bibleforeveryone #learnthebible #gospelofluke #family #familylove #jesusjourney #jesusfamily #followjesus #bibleforallages

Are You LISTENING right? Don't miss this DEVO on Luke 8:16-18 with a FLASHBACK to Deuteronomy 6:4-9 👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻 Setting the Scene: Imagine yourself huddled in a dimly lit room with a group of first-century disciples. You've just heard Jesus share the Parable of the Sower, a story about seeds scattered on different types of ground, representing those who hear the word of God with varying levels of receptivity. Now, Jesus continues His teaching, shifting from the imagery of seeds to the illuminating power of light. This transition may seem abrupt to our modern ears, but in the ancient world, lamps were a central feature of daily life, providing essential illumination in homes that lacked electricity. The oil lamps of that time were relatively small, often made of clay, and fueled by olive oil. They produced a limited amount of light, making it crucial to position them strategically for maximum effect. Jesus uses this familiar object to illustrate a profound spiritual truth: His teachings, like a lamp, are meant to be revealed and shared, not hidden away. Historical Context: -- Light in the Ancient World: In the absence of modern lighting, oil lamps played a vital role in Jewish culture. The lighting of a lamp at dusk was a significant daily ritual, often accompanied by blessings. The menorah in the Temple was a prominent symbol of God's presence and guidance. -- Prophecies of Revelation: Jesus's words about hidden things being revealed echo Old Testament prophecies, such as Isaiah 25:7, which speaks of God destroying the "face of the covering cast over all people," and Daniel 2:22, which describes God as the one who "reveals deep and hidden things." -- The Shema and "Hear, O Israel": Jesus and His disciples would have been intimately familiar with the Shema, a central prayer in Judaism drawn from Deuteronomy 6:4-9. This prayer begins with the command, "Hear, O Israel!" The Hebrew word "Shema" encompasses not only hearing but also obeying. This sheds light on Jesus's words "pay attention to how you hear." He wasn't merely talking about passive listening; He was calling for active engagement and obedience to His teachings. Scripture Connections to Consider: Matthew 5:14-16: "You are the light of the world...Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."   Ephesians 5:8-14: "For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light... everything exposed by the light becomes visible—and everything that is illuminated becomes a light."   Deuteronomy 6:4-9: "Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates."   QUESTIONS FOR YOU TO Chew on and Discuss: 1) Hidden in Plain Sight: How might some of Jesus's teachings be like a lamp that is initially hidden or misunderstood, but eventually brought to light? 2) Active Listening: In light of the Shema, how does Jesus's call to "pay attention to how you hear" challenge us to move beyond passive listening to active obedience? 3) More or Less: Jesus says that those who listen will be given more, while those who don't listen will lose even what they think they have. How have you experienced this principle in your own spiritual journey? (What other parable uses this same "More or Less" analogy?) Journey Group Discussion Starter: How does the connection between Jesus's teaching and the Shema deepen your understanding of what it means to truly "hear" and follow Jesus? Applying the Principles in YOUR REAL LIFE THIS WEEK: -- Shine Your Light: Don't hide your faith. Share your testimony, serve others, and let your actions reflect the light of Christ. -- Hear and Obey: Go beyond simply listening to Jesus's words. Put them into practice in your daily life. -- Seek Understanding: Don't be content with a superficial knowledge of the Bible. Dig deeper, ask questions, and seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Remember that time you spilled food all over your shirt and didn't have a chance to change before your next appointment? That has nothing to do with any of this... Which means... It's time for you to get plugged into a JOURNEY GROUP BY CLICKING RIGHT HERE 👉🏻 https://www.yourjesusjourney.com/journeygroups #dailybiblepodcast #jesusjourney #gospelofluke #followjesus #jesusteachings #biblepodcast #christianpodcast #learnthebible #bibleforeveryone

The Sower and the Seed: A Devotional on Luke 8:4-15 Setting the Scene: Imagine yourself huddled amongst a crowd, jostling for space to hear Jesus speak. The air is thick with anticipation, the sun beating down on your shoulders. Jesus, master storyteller that He is, begins to weave a parable – a story with a deeper meaning. This one is about a sower scattering seed, a common sight in agrarian societies like first-century Palestine. But this is no ordinary farming lesson. Jesus uses this everyday image to illustrate the impact of God’s Word on different hearts. This parable is also found in Matthew 13:1-23 and Mark 4:1-20, highlighting its significance. In those days, sowing seed often involved broadcasting it by hand, explaining why some seed landed in unfavorable locations. This method, while seemingly wasteful, reflects God’s abundant grace in offering salvation to all. Digging Deeper: Jesus explains the parable, revealing four types of soil representing different responses to God’s Word: - The Path: The seed that falls on the path represents those who hear the Word, but Satan immediately snatches it away, preventing understanding and belief. - The Rocky Ground: This represents those who receive the Word with joy, but lack deep roots. When trials and persecution come, they quickly fall away. - The Thorns: Here, the seed is choked by the worries, riches, and pleasures of life, hindering growth and fruitfulness. - The Good Soil: This represents those who hear the Word, understand it, and bear fruit with perseverance. QUESTIONS FOR YOU TO Chew on and Discuss: 1) Which type of soil best describes your heart today? 2) What are some “thorns” or “rocks” that might be hindering your receptivity to God’s Word? 3) Jesus emphasizes the importance of understanding the Word. How can you actively seek to understand and apply Scripture in your daily life? 4) The good soil produces fruit, implying action and transformation. What are some practical ways you can bear fruit as a result of hearing and understanding God’s Word? Discussion Starter for Journey Groups: Think of a time when you experienced a breakthrough in understanding a particular passage of Scripture. How did that understanding impact your life and faith? Applying the Truth: This parable calls us to examine our hearts and cultivate receptivity to God's Word. We can do this by: - Preparing our hearts: Just as a farmer prepares the soil, we need to cultivate a heart ready to receive God’s Word through prayer, meditation, and a willingness to obey. - Removing obstacles: Identify the “thorns” in your life – worries, distractions, or sinful habits – that hinder spiritual growth and actively seek to remove them. - Seeking understanding: Don’t just hear the Word, but strive to understand it. Engage with Scripture through study, reflection, and discussion with other believers. - Bearing fruit: Put your faith into action. Share your faith, serve others, and live a life that reflects the transformative power of God’s Word. ON YOUR MARK - GET SET - GO.... Don't let your spiritual journey be like the seed that fell on the path and got eaten by a bird! (Okay, maybe that's a bit dramatic, but you get the point.) Join a Jesus Journey group and dig deeper into God's Word with others. It's like fertilizer for your faith! (Okay, okay, I'll stop with the gardening metaphors.) Email us at yourjesusjourney@gmail.com to connect with a group or start one of your own. We promise, no actual seed-sowing required. ***Random Funny about this parable. I had no idea what 4:20 was about in the world until I taught this passage to a group of youth leaders and young adults many years back. I had booklets printed up with a picture of a plant growing out of the dirt and a huge green title "4:20"... there were a lot of chuckles in the crowd and it took a while but someone finally told me that 4:20 (March 20) is sort of like a national holiday for POT SMOKERS and they celebrate all things Marijuana 😂😂😂 (I bet they remembered the training!) #dailybiblepodcast #biblepodcast #christianpodcast #learnthebible #bibleforeveryone #dailybiblereading #gospelofluke #jesusjourney #followjesus

9 Days away from our BIGGEST OUTREACH EVENT EVER! Learn More about this amazing event 👉🏻 https://www.yourjesusjourney.com/general-7 Setting the Scene for today's Devo and Jesus' Scandalous Disciples! Luke 8:1-3 paints a picture of Jesus traveling from town to town, sharing the good news of the kingdom of God. He is accompanied by a diverse group of women who have been healed and set free from demonic oppression. These women, who were likely marginalized and outcast in their society, now follow Jesus and support his ministry. Historical and Cultural Context: --- Women in First-Century Society: Women in first-century Palestine were often marginalized and had limited social and legal rights. Their presence in Jesus' inner circle was revolutionary and challenged societal norms. --- Demonic Possession: The belief in demonic possession was widespread in the ancient world, and it was often associated with physical and mental illness. Jesus' healing of the demon-possessed woman highlights his power over evil and his compassion for the suffering. --- Jesus, the Wandering Preacher: Jesus' itinerant ministry was a common practice among first-century rabbis. He traveled from town to town, proclaiming the good news and healing the sick. --- The Faithful Followers: The women who followed Jesus were not passive observers but active participants in his ministry. They supported him financially and spiritually, and they were witnesses to his miracles and teachings. QUESTIONS FOR YOU TO Chew on and Discuss: 1) What does it mean to follow Jesus today? How can we practically apply the example of the women in Luke 8:1-3 to our own lives? 2) How can we challenge societal norms and advocate for the marginalized in our communities? 3) What are some ways we can support the ministry of Jesus through our time, talents, and resources? Discussion Starter for your Journey Group: - Share a time when you felt marginalized or excluded. How did you overcome those feelings? - Discuss the importance of diversity and inclusion in the church. How can we create a more welcoming and inclusive community? Application Ideas for you this week: --- Be a Follower: Commit to following Jesus wholeheartedly, no matter the cost. --- Support the Mission: Use your resources to support the mission of the church, both locally and globally. --- Advocate for Justice: Speak up for the oppressed and marginalized in your community. HEY - Are you tired of only eating TACOS on TUESDAY? READY to mix it up and get crazy? Whether you start Taco Thursday or not is up to you - but I would suggest you reach out and JOIN A JOURNEY GROUP! Ready to embark on a life-changing journey with Jesus? Join a Journey Group today! We're not talking about a boring Bible study here. Think of it more like a spiritual adventure club, where we laugh, learn, and grow together. Email us at [email address removed] to connect with a group or start your own. WANT TO LEARN WHAT A JOURNEY GROUP IS AND IS NOT? - READ MORE ABOUT IT HERE👇🏻 https://www.yourjesusjourney.com/journeygroups #dailybiblepodcast #biblepodcast #christianpodcast #bibleforeveryone #learnthebible #followjesus #jesusjourney #disciple #disciplemaking #luke8 #gospelofluke #goodnews

Yes, I wrote "Slut"... She may have been a prostitute or just a loose woman who was known for sleeping around, but too many translations "sugarcoat" what everyone there was actually thinking... "That slut is touching Jesus... and he's letting it happen!" Shocking? Yep... now you are starting to feel what they were feeling... now you're ready to dig into this passage. Setting the Scene: Today, we're diving into Luke 7:36-50, a story as scandalous as it is beautiful. Imagine a dinner party, a typical affair among the religious elite. A Pharisee, a man of strict adherence to the Law, invites Jesus to his home. It's a gesture of hospitality, but perhaps also a subtle test. Little does he know, a woman with a questionable reputation crashes the party. She's bold, she's desperate, and she's about to turn this dinner into a dramatic spectacle. A Woman of Faith: (The one everyone thought was a slut, hussy or whore!) This woman, often labeled a sinner, is a woman of profound faith. She approaches Jesus, weeping, washing His feet with her tears and drying them with her hair. She anoints His feet with expensive perfume, a gesture of extravagant devotion. Her actions are shocking, yet they reveal a heart deeply broken and yearning for redemption. A Pharisee's Doubt: The Pharisee, witnessing this scene, is appalled. He questions Jesus' acceptance of this woman, implying that a holy man like Jesus shouldn't associate with such a sinner. But Jesus, with His characteristic wisdom and grace, turns the tables. He tells the Pharisee a parable about two debtors, one owing a large sum and the other a small one. Both debts are forgiven, but the one who received the greater forgiveness showed greater love. A Lesson in Love and Forgiveness: Jesus' parable is a powerful reminder that true forgiveness is not based on our worthiness but on God's boundless love. The woman, though a sinner, demonstrates a level of faith and repentance that surpasses the Pharisee's self-righteousness. She receives forgiveness and peace, while the Pharisee is left to ponder his own spiritual condition. QUESTIONS FOR YOU TO Chew on and Discuss: 1) What does this story teach us about the nature of God's love and forgiveness? 2) How does this story challenge our own perceptions of sin and righteousness? 3) What can we learn from the woman's bold and unconventional approach to Jesus? Discussion Starter for your Journey Group: Share a time when you felt judged or misunderstood, and how you experienced God's grace and forgiveness. Applying the Text Today: In our modern world, we often judge others based on their outward appearance or reputation. Like the Pharisee, we can be quick to condemn those who don't fit our mold. Let's strive to see people as Jesus sees them, with compassion and understanding. Let's extend grace and forgiveness, just as we have received it. Join the Journey---- HEY YOU.... YEP, YOU... ARE YOU IN A JOURNEY GROUP YET? Ready to dive deeper into God's Word and connect with other believers? Join a Journey Group! It's a great way to grow in your faith and build lasting friendships. Don't worry, we promise it won't be as dramatic as the dinner party in Luke 7. We're more about coffee and cookies than tears and perfume. To learn more or to start your own group, email us at [email address removed]. Let's embark on this journey together, one awkward laugh at a time! 🐇🐇🐇 Rabbit Trail: Faith and Forgiveness Jesus' connection between faith and forgiveness is a recurring theme throughout the Gospels. As we've seen in Luke 7, the woman's faith led to the forgiveness of her sins. This is just one example of how Jesus emphasizes the importance of faith in receiving God's grace. Here are a few other passages where Jesus connects faith to healing, salvation, and other blessings: - Matthew 8:13: Jesus heals a centurion's servant based on his faith. - Mark 5:24-34: Jesus heals a woman with a twelve-year-long issue of bleeding, emphasizing her faith. - Matthew 9:20-22: Jesus heals a woman with a twelve-year-long issue of bleeding, emphasizing her faith. Mark 10:46-52: Jesus heals Bartimaeus, the blind beggar, who cried out in faith. - John 20:29: Jesus encourages Thomas to believe and see the glory of God. Take some time to explore these passages and others. Consider how your own faith impacts your relationship with God and others. How can you cultivate a deeper faith that leads to greater forgiveness, healing, and spiritual growth?

THE NEW YJJ WEBSITE IS LIVE NOW! Ready for you to review, look for typos and formatting errors, get familiar with it, etc. www.YourJesusJourney.com TODAY IS ALL ABOUT DOUBTS & HOW GOD RESPONDS... Setting the Scene: John the Baptist, once a fiery preacher and baptizer, is now languishing in prison. His once-bright hope has dimmed, and he sends his disciples to Jesus with a question: “Are you the one who is to come, or shall we look for another?” (Luke 7:19). It’s a question that hangs heavy in the air, a question that could shake the foundations of Jesus’ ministry. Jesus, ever the compassionate teacher, doesn’t dismiss John’s doubt. Instead, He performs a series of miraculous healings, culminating in the raising of a widow’s son. These acts, Jesus tells John’s disciples, are the answer to his question. They are the fulfillment of the prophecies, the signs of the coming Kingdom. But Jesus doesn’t stop there. He goes on to praise John, calling him the greatest prophet born of woman. Yet, He also acknowledges that the least in the Kingdom of God is greater than John. It’s a paradox, a mystery that challenges our understanding of greatness and humility. A Closer Look & Questions For You 👇🏻 - The Question of Faith: John the Baptist, despite his prophetic calling, struggles with doubt. His question to Jesus is a reminder that even the most faithful can experience moments of uncertainty. How do we respond when our faith is tested? - The Power of Miracles: Jesus’ miracles are not mere displays of power, but signs of God’s love and compassion. They point to the healing and restoration that is possible through faith in Christ. How can we share the hope and healing of Jesus with others? (Go take a look at Isaiah 35:5) - The Paradox of Greatness: Jesus challenges our traditional notions of greatness. He suggests that true greatness is found in humility and service. How can we cultivate a spirit of humility in our own lives? - A Deeper Dive: The Response of the People In Luke 7:29-35, we see the reaction of the people to John the Baptist and Jesus. The people, including the tax collectors and sinners, acknowledged John’s ministry and repented of their sins. However, the Pharisees and the lawyers, who were considered righteous, refused to repent. This passage highlights the importance of humility and recognizing one’s need for repentance. It also shows that salvation is not based on religious status or moral performance, but on faith in Jesus Christ. QUESTIONS FOR YOU TO Chew on and Discuss: 1) How does the response of the people to John and Jesus reveal the human heart? 2) What does it mean to be “wise from heaven”? 3) How can we apply the lessons from this passage to our own lives? Journey Group Discussion Starter: Discuss the ways in which we might be tempted to rely on our own righteousness or the righteousness of others. Applying God’s Word Today: - Practice humility: Seek to serve others, even in small ways. Share the hope of Jesus: Be a witness to the love and grace of God. Pray for those who are struggling: Intercede for the sick, the lonely, and the discouraged. - Examine your heart: Are you relying on your own righteousness or the righteousness of others? - Repent of your sins: Turn away from sin and towards Jesus Christ. Join the Journey Ready to dive deeper into God's Word? Join a Journey Group! It's a great way to connect with other believers, grow in your faith, and experience the joy of Christian community. Email us at YourJesusJourney@gmail.com to learn more or to start your own group. Let's embark on this journey together! #dailybiblepodcast #biblepodcast #christianfaith #doubt #johnthebaptist #followjesus #jesusjourney #learnthebible #bibleforeveryone #bibleforallages #christianpodcast