That They May All Be One Podcast

Well, it is a sudden end to Season 6 of “That They May All Be One”…but for very purpose of declaring the praises of the LORD JESUS CHRIST! The main message I always want people to hear is the gospel, the very best news ever! Regardless if you are a non-believer or a believer (especially a believer) the gospel is great amazing eternal news!!!! This last episode of season 6 I make a comparison of planning a vacation to seeking the Kingdom of GOD. Take time to watch or listen…it could save your life! Philippians 3:10–14 (NASB95): 10 that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death; 11 in order that I may attain to the resurrection from the dead. 12 Not that I have already obtained it or have already become perfect, but I press on so that I may lay hold of that for which also I was laid hold of by Christ Jesus. 13 Brethren, I do not regard myself as having laid hold of it yet; but one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Luke 14:26–30 (NASB95): 26 “If anyone comes to Me, and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life, he cannot be My disciple. 27 “Whoever does not carry his own cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple. 28 “For which one of you, when he wants to build a tower, does not first sit down and calculate the cost to see if he has enough to complete it? 29 “Otherwise, when he has laid a foundation and is not able to finish, all who observe it begin to ridicule him, 30 saying, ‘This man began to build and was not able to finish.’ “ Support the show

This discipleship episode deals with a soap box topic of mine. I hear this so much it is just plain irresponsible for a believer to act this way, especially if they claim to love the LORD JESUS. You might think from the title I don’t like books. You would be wrong. Granted I don’t’t have as much time to devote to reading other materials. Nor do I posses the reading ability of my wife. However, there are several authors whom I have been blessed of the LORD to read and learn from. No, what I am in reference too here is when I engage with, or I hear other believers engaging with believers or non-believers in theological topics. There is nothing wrong with thoughtful or even challenging doctrinal discussions. Indeed, we are call to be able to give an account of the hope that is in us (1 Peter 3). My soap box is believers should never have to say, “well if you just read this book then you will understand.” Or if you are witnessing to someone and they ask you to go over and explain the gospel to them you tell them, “if you read this book it will explain it.” As a believer you should be able to discuss your position (especially the gospel) from the Scriptures based on your own study. Here are the three things I listen for in any encounter regardless-less if I am in the conversation or not: 1. What do you believe? 2. Why do you believe it? 3. Can you personally explain it without having to get another involved - save only the Bible? If you are unable to answer these three questions - you have no reason to be in a theological discussion - save to learn. ***This does not mean you should not share the gospel. Even if you feel you don’t have the correct wording do not let that hinder you. Indeed, it will be the SPIRIT of GOD who gives you words and insight.*** Please do not give me your books! Just speak to me from the Scripture so I know you are one who desires to make much of the LORD JESUS CHRIST! Grace and peace to all who are in CHRIST JESUS the LORD. Support the show

A couple of videos ago I did the topic of Church Membership. I looked at is it Scriptural to have membership in a local congregation based on a formal process which has at its core an individual (s) sign a document stating they adhere to the polity of that congregation and/or denomination. What we found, by Scripture alone, is there is nowhere where a formal process is required or even necessary. Indeed, the setting up of a formal process and declaration could and often does lead to hypocrisy. I, for one, have had this occur to me several times. As an evangelist called and appointed by GOD and confirmed by the unsolicited commissioning of the local church (Pastor, deacons by prayer and laying on of hands) I have had numerous times where churches will say they will pray for me but can’t support me because I don’t belong to their denomination. Well, the question could and should be asked, “why church then?” Why should we gather together as a “church” if membership is not a necessary issue? There are many reasons why. In this video I examine but a few. Yes - it is extremely important to gather together in a local congregation!!!!! Make no mistake, if you say you’re a follower of the LORD JESUS CHRIST and have no desire to be with other saints…there is a problem! Join with me now as we examine why church. A special shout out to a brother and sister in CHRIST who provided the new A/V equipment! The sound is amazing! I praise the LORD JESUS for putting in their hearts to minister to UCJ in this way! Praise the LORD JESUS! Support the show

Sadly, I had to change my original video/podcast discipleship video to a current issue which I have no choice but to talk about. I try to avoid the current gossip or latest, “did you hear” issues that surround pastors of the faith. I believe it unwise and unfruitful to speak on matters which you may not have all the information. However, in this situation, I have too as it involves United In Christ Jesus and its relationship with Alistair Begg and his ministry Truth For Life. If you visit the website, you will notice on the right sidebar there is Truth for Life app. Also, if you look at my recommendation page - https://thattheymayallbeone.org/shane-recommends/ - you will notice there are only two men of GOD whom I recommend for people to listen too. Because of this affiliation I believe it necessary to share where UCJ stands and what its affiliation with Truth for Life will be. Recently, Pastor Begg had some comments of his, from a few months ago, resurface. He was speaking on his recent book and some advice he gave to a person about attending a gay wedding. These comments immediately drew the ire of numerous Christians. Later Pastor Begg was asked if he would repent of his words. Here is an article with his reply: https://www.christianpost.com/news/alistair-begg-im-not-ready-to-repent-over-gay-wedding-advice.html As I was praying on how to write this up and do this video the Word of GOD which I believe has the most direct impact on this situation is the following: Matthew 7:15–20 (NASB95): 15 “Beware of the false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly are ravenous wolves. 16 “You will know them by their fruits. Grapes are not gathered from thorn bushes nor figs from thistles, are they? 17 “So every good tree bears good fruit, but the bad tree bears bad fruit. 18 “A good tree cannot produce bad fruit, nor can a bad tree produce good fruit. 19 “Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. 20 “So then, you will know them by their fruits.” You may be wondering if I am now calling Pastor Begg a false brother. The answer is no. But, I do ask you to listen to this entire program as I will be mentioning, by name, a heretical ministry, which is on the opposite end of the spectrum of Pastor Begg or John Piper. I will warn you of Bethel Church and all of their affiliates and the danger they pose to any believers walk with the LORD. Next week we will return to our normal discipleship video podcast. Until then grace and peace. Glory to GOD! Worthy is the LAMB! Support the show

I recently asked a friend, Brett, what he had been thinking about regarding his faith. Responding, he told me he had been thinking about abiding in the SPIRIT and how we can only bear fruit being in the SPIRIT. This immediately started my mind running through the Scriptures with them conforming what Brett had shared. Over the next day I had asked several other people what they would like to see discussed. After spending time in prayer the topic Brett shared kept coming back to the forefront. The more I thought about it the more I realized how many people have questions on walking in the SPIRIT. Here is a section of Scripture I mentioned in the video, but did not get time to really discuss. It along with numerous others GOD uses to guide us clearly on this all to important topic. Truly, if we can do nothing unless we are in CHRIST and following HIM it would be unloving of GOD not to tell us how. Galatians 5:16–26 (NASB95): 16 But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh. 17 For the flesh sets its desire against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are in opposition to one another, so that you may not do the things that you please. 18 But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the Law. 19 Now the deeds of the flesh are evident, which are: immorality, impurity, sensuality, 20 idolatry, sorcery, enmities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, disputes, dissensions, factions, 21 envying, drunkenness, carousing, and things like these, of which I forewarn you, just as I have forewarned you, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. 24 Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit. 26 Let us not become boastful, challenging one another, envying one another. Listen to these words of the LORD JESUS: John 15:1–6 (NASB95): 1 “I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. 2 “Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit, He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit, He prunes it so that it may bear more fruit. 3 “You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you. 4 “Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself unless it abides in the vine, so neither can you unless you abide in Me. 5 “I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit, for apart from Me you can do nothing. 6 “If anyone does not abide in Me, he is thrown away as a branch and dries up; and they gather them, and cast them into the fire and they are burned.” So, join with me now, as we seek the face of GOD in knowing how each day we live in victory and in a manner worthy of the LORD and HIS calling. Grace and peace to all who are in CHRIST JESUS the LORD! P.S. This article about Coram Deo, by R.C. Sproul will be very helpful for getting a real good foundation on abiding in the SPIRIT. https://www.ligonier.org/learn/articles/what-does-coram-deo-mean Support the show

Recently, I had a discussion with a brother regarding church membership. Before we ever began the discussion (he being for and I saying its not mandated by Scripture) I told him, “your going to say to me at some point something to the effect, ‘I see what your saying and your right, but that is just the way we do things.’” As we engaged further and we talked about what the Scriptures said he eventually said what I said he would say. There is absolutely nothing wrong with church membership, just like an altar call, unless it is used in an improper manner. From the time the LORD JESUS saved me until now, after examination of the Scriptures, I know that church membership is not Scriptural. It is something added on, perhaps with the best intentions (think of Adam telling Eve she can’t touch the tree) but not having the desired outcome - love in word and deed. If you go to thattheymayallbeone.org you can see about me and the testimony of the LORD JESUS saving me. This can give you a better insight of my perspective. This will also assist you in understanding the joys of uniting with a local Body and being subject to the governing elders. It will also highlight how this can be used to manipulate. I have referenced numerous Scriptures in this video. I won’t mention them here save for Galatians 2. Peter was confronted by Paul. Peter, though not a “member” of the church at Antioch was still subject to the elders there. This is the same person mentioned almost 60 more times than Paul is in the New Testament. This podcast is longer than many of the others, but I believe it is one of great importance if we are going to see the Western Church grow and walk in a manner worthy of the LORD’S calling and gospel. Grace and peace to all who are in CHRIST JESUS the LORD. Support the show

Here it is a new year - 2024. Perhaps you are one of the many, who with good intent, make new years resolutions and/or goals. We see areas in our life that we need to address like health, eating or other areas we just know we need to work on. The vast majority of people who set these goals with good intentions fail to do one important thing - plan. This is the same with following CHRIST JESUS. Christians can fall into this same trap. We can set goals, some may be unrealistic (ill read the entire bible 4 times this year). Others are great and accomplish-able, but we fail to plan in a realistic manner. Lastly, what we all need and especially the Christian is discipline. The greatest need for a believer is to value and prize knowing GOD the FATHER and the LORD JESUS CHRIST above all things and people. Scripture tells us we are in need of three primary goals to be in a good place to bear much good fruit. Those areas are: 1. Plan - what is the reading plan your going to have in place and be able to stick to it realistically. You know you don't have to read the entire bible in one year...but it is really a tremendous benefit to your growth. 2. Prayer - we need to be in prayer daily, often and immediately 3. Participation - are you engaging and in fellowship with other believers/saints? Join with me, Shane Sands, as I share on these three aspects needed in the Christian life. As always, leave a comment, like/dislike the video and if you have a thought/idea for a topic let me know. Grace and peace everyone. Take care. Glory to GOD! Worthy is the LAMB! Support the show

The first podcast, of 2024, season six and the topic from United In Christ Jesus are two very important topics: Fallen Will and Personal Holiness. Understanding the one and pursuit of the other is absolutely necessary to walking in a manner worthy of the LORD and HIS glorious gospel. **Please pray for this ministry. Please support this ministry - humbled and grateful for you who come alongside of UCJ. Please visit: thattheymayallbeone.org/donate Thank you! Support the show

Here we are the final episode of season five. This is the shortest season we have had. But, I believe it is possible the most important for believers. This season we have examined the importance of discernment and why it is necessary in the daily life of a believer. This last episode we will look at the final piece and perhaps the one most people fear. Also, this episode will be our Thanksgiving Holiday episode. Truly, we as believers have been given the greatest gift ever...we have so much to be thankful for. Just a fair warning...lol, this program I do everything myself. It is raw material uploaded. Holly and I are heading out of town and she is very busy with final arrangements and getting prepared. So, you may hear a throat cleared of longer pauses than normal. But, I felt it necessary to get this done before leaving. Here is the main Scripture being utilized for the program. Become familiar with it. 1 It happened that while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul passed through the upper country and came to Ephesus, and found some disciples. 2 He said to them, “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?” And they said to him, “No, we have not even heard whether there is a Holy Spirit.” 3 And he said, “Into what then were you baptized?” And they said, “Into John’s baptism.” 4 Paul said, “John baptized with the baptism of repentance, telling the people to believe in Him who was coming after him, that is, in Jesus.” 5 When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. (Acts 19:1–5) As I sign off for this season, let me say thank you to everyone who has prayed for us. GOG uses and answers the prayers of HIS children. So, again, thank you. Above that we want to praise and give thanks to GOD the FATHER in the name and through HIS beloved SON the LORD JESUS CHRIST. We know to whom much is given much is required. We also know it has and is HIS grace and strength which has kept us and granted us to move forward - sometimes in difficult times. This is the 13th year the LORD has granted United In Christ Jesus to operate and serve HIM and HIS kingdom. Bless and praise HIS holy name! I/we don't take it for granted. It is the LORD'S ministry and HE, at any time, can do with it as HE wills. It is my request and hope HE further blesses and pours me/us out for HIS glory and kingdom! If you have made it this far, would you please prayerfully consider joining with us as a prayer partner and a monthly supporter? We are a faith based ministry. We trust the LORD to provide as I share the ministry needs and ask for support. We know that it is the LORD who moves the hearts of HIS own. Given the current climate in the western church, really the entire world, we believe there is a tremendous need for the gospel to go forth, saints built up and the lost called to repentance and faith. Please join with us. You can find a link on this page or you may visit United In Christ Jesus website here and look on the donate page. We do need your prayers and support, please. Grace and peace to all who are in CHRIST JESUS the LORD. Support the show

Here we are our fourth episode in season five. We have and are discussing discernment. One of the most important aspects of a Christian is having proper discernment. Episode one we focused on defining discernment and what is necessary to have as a foundation in applying godly Christian discernment. We also discussed three pillars which GOD has shown us in HIS Word, that will aid in our having and applying discernment. Episode two we focused on having our eyes on CHRIST JESUS and where HE is at. It is of utmost importance for you to keep in focus one day we will be with our KING and see HIM as HE is and where HE is! Episode three we focused on remembering where GOD brought us from. We learned the importance of keeping in focus the LORD saving us from HIS wrath and our sin. HE called us out of darkness into HIS marvelous light. This episode we are looking at the last pillar needed to aid in proper discernment - always examining where you are now. It is not only important to know where you are going, remember where you have come from, but also to know you are still on the right path. You guessed it, this also is dependent on you having GOD'S Word richly dwelling in you. As we allow the Word of GOD to perform its work in us, who believe, we then begin to think the thoughts of GOD and to look through HIS eyes. In short we love the things GOD loves and hate the things GOD hates. May the LORD JESUS be honored and exalted! May HE be pleased to have your hearts overflowing with HIS praise! May HE fill you with HIS wisdom, knowledge and understanding! May HE grant your hearts to overflow with love for HIM and HIS image bearers. Grace and peace friends! 105 Your word is a lamp to my feet And a light to my path. (Psalm 119:105) 12 So then, brethren, we are under obligation, not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh— 13 for if you are living according to the flesh, you must die; but if by the Spirit you are putting to death the deeds of the body, you will live. 14 For all who are being led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. 15 For you have not received a spirit of slavery leading to fear again, but you have received a spirit of adoption as sons by which we cry out, “Abba! Father!” 16 The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are children of God, (Romans 8:12–16) Support the show

When we think about discernment our minds usually go to how we are viewing current events surrounding us. Seldom do we take a few minutes to evaluate the foundation by which we discern. We know everything should filter through the Word of GOD and if it does not align with that to take appropriate steps. But, how do we apply the Word? In what manner is it brought to bear on circumstances? There are three main pillars GOD calls us to remember and reflect on, which give us clarity regarding application. The first pillar was don't forget where you are going...always have your eye on the prize. This episode we will examine another pillar: never forget where GOD brought you from. Look at the following Scripture from the book of Titus. Notice how GOD through Paul reminds of of our own slavery to sin and then HIS salvation?! This foundational pillar keeps us humble and with grace when dealing with others. 3 For we also once were foolish ourselves, disobedient, deceived, enslaved to various lusts and pleasures, spending our life in malice and envy, hateful, hating one another. 4 But when the kindness of God our Savior and His love for mankind appeared, 5 He saved us, not on the basis of deeds which we have done in righteousness, but according to His mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit, 6 whom He poured out upon us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, 7 so that being justified by His grace we would be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life. (Titus 3:3–7) Today, the release date of this episode is October 17, 2023. Yesterday marked the 15th year of the LORD JESUS CHRIST saving me from HIS wrath and my sin against HIM. Praise the LORD for HIS mercy and grace! Never forget where the LORD brought you from. As you remember you will have a better understanding of where others are when you share the gospel or interact with others. Grace and peace to all who are in CHRIST JESUS the LORD. Support the show

We continue of examination of discernment and why it is of utmost need in the church today. This episode we look at the three places we are to have our eyes focused on...and then the foremost of those three. A simple question to ask any Christian to see where they are at discernment wise, "where do you have your eyes/heart focused?" Sometimes people use this statement to give an indication they are mature real Christians, "Don't be so heavenly minded that you can be no earthly good." When in reality this actually shows the immaturity and/or disbelieving heart of that person. Lastly, when believers have discussions on doctrine, like eschatology, it should result in a building up of the church. If our eyes are focused correctly, we will find ourselves pointing to one thing as essential and the others used for edification. I'll be using some of these Scriptures in this episode. There are numerous others, so please take the time to look them up. Grace and peace to all who are in CHRIST JESUS the LORD. 4 to obtain an inheritance which is imperishable and undefiled and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, 5 who are protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. (1 Peter 1:4–5) 27 And inasmuch as it is appointed for men to die once and after this comes judgment, 28 so Christ also, having been offered once to bear the sins of many, will appear a second time for salvation without reference to sin, to those who eagerly await Him. (Hebrews 9:27–28) 30 “Therefore having overlooked the times of ignorance, God is now declaring to men that all people everywhere should repent, 31 because He has fixed a day in which He will judge the world in righteousness through a Man whom He has appointed, having furnished proof to all men by raising Him from the dead.” (Acts 17:30–31) 7 and to give relief to you who are afflicted and to us as well when the Lord Jesus will be revealed from heaven with His mighty angels in flaming fire, 8 dealing out retribution to those who do not know God and to those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus. (2 Thessalonians 1:7–8) Support the show

Charles Spurgeon said about discernment: Discernment is not knowing the difference between right and wrong. It is knowing the difference between right and almost right. Men go after novel and false doctrines because they do not really know the truth. Satan knows very well that if he comes in black he will be discovered, but if he puts on the garb of an angel of light, then men will think he comes from God, and so will be deceived. “By their fruits ye shall know them.” If they give you not the gospel, if they exalt not Christ, if they bear not witness to salvation through the precious blood, if they do not lift up Jesus Christ as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, have nothing to do with them, speak as they may. Definition: the quality of being able to grasp and comprehend what is obscure DISCERNMENT stresses accuracy (as in reading character or motives or appreciating art). (Merriam-Webster) Aspects of discernment in GOD’S Word: Hebrews 5:11–14 11 Concerning him we have much to say, and it is hard to explain, since you have become dull of hearing. 12 For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you have need again for someone to teach you the elementary principles of the oracles of God, and you have come to need milk and not solid food. 13 For everyone who partakes only of milk is not accustomed to the word of righteousness, for he is an infant. 14 But solid food is for the mature, who because of practice have their senses trained to discern good and evil. Ezra 7:10 For Ezra had set his heart to study the law of the Lord and to practice it, and to teach His statutes and ordinances in Israel. 1 Corinthians 12:10 10 and to another the effecting of miracles, and to another prophecy, and to another the distinguishing of spirits, to another various kinds of tongues, and to another the interpretation of tongues. Luke 12:54–57 54 And He was also saying to the crowds, “When you see a cloud rising in the west, immediately you say, ‘A shower is coming,’ and so it turns out. 55 “And when you see a south wind blowing, you say, ‘It will be a hot day,’ and it turns out that way. 56 “You hypocrites! You know how to analyze the appearance of the earth and the sky, but why do you not analyze this present time? 57 “And why do you not even on your own initiative judge what is right? Matthew 16:2–4 2 But He replied to them, “ When it is evening, you say, ‘It will be fair weather, for the sky is red.’ 3 “And in the morning, ‘There will be a storm today, for the sky is red and threatening.’ Do you know how to discern the appearance of the sky, but cannot discern the signs of the times? 4 “An evil and adulterous generation seeks after a sign; and a sign will not be given it, except the sign of Jonah.” Proverbs 1:1–7 1 The proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel: 2 To know wisdom and instruction, To discern the sayings of understanding, 3 To receive instruction in wise behavior, Righteousness, justice and equity; 4 To give prudence to the naive, To the youth knowledge and discretion, 5 A wise man will hear and increase in learning, And a man of understanding will acquire wise counsel, 6 To understand a proverb and a figure, The words of the wise and their riddles. 7 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; Fools despise wisdom and instruction. Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/hartzmann/no-time-to-die License code: UPDCRRWX55NZZKUM Support the show

Here we are at the end of season four. What a journey it has been as we have examined lost truths of the Christian Faith. This last episode we examine, what I believe to be, the culmination of all the other episodes - are you and old man? When we neglect all the other lost truths and not earnestly seek to walk in a manner worthy of the LORD'S calling and gospel - we forget we are a new creation - a new man and we are to walk in that newness of life every moment of every day until we get to come home. Grace and peace to all who are in CHRIST JESUS the LORD! We are looking forward to starting the new season beginning in the first of September. We are also considering a couple of new changes to the format! Exciting times ahead! Please email us if you have requests, prayer requests or ideas you would like us to consider. 1 Now I make known to you, brethren, the gospel which I preached to you, which also you received, in which also you stand, 2 by which also you are saved, if you hold fast the word which I preached to you, unless you believed in vain. (1 Corinthians 15:1–2) 3 seeing that His divine power has granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness, through the true knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence. 4 For by these He has granted to us His precious and magnificent promises, so that by them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world by lust. 5 Now for this very reason also, applying all diligence, in your faith supply moral excellence, and in your moral excellence, knowledge, 6 and in your knowledge, self-control, and in your self-control, perseverance, and in your perseverance, godliness, 7 and in your godliness, brotherly kindness, and in your brotherly kindness, love. 8 For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they render you neither useless nor unfruitful in the true knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 For he who lacks these qualities is blind or short-sighted, having forgotten his purification from his former sins. 10 Therefore, brethren, be all the more diligent to make certain about His calling and choosing you; for as long as you practice these things, you will never stumble; 11 for in this way the entrance into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ will be abundantly supplied to you. (2 Peter 1:3–11) Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/hartzmann/no-time-to-die License code: UPDCRRWX55NZZKUM Support the show

Here we are the next to last podcast for season 4. This episode especially hits hard and home for myself. We are looking at "die to self daily." Talk about a lost truth! Talk about something that goes against the fabric of society, especially in the western church - just mention put your hopes and dreams to the side so that GOD may have HIS way. While it may have outward acceptance in practicality we/I fall so very very short. Just look at what the LORD JESUS says to those who wish to follow HIM: 20 And He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” And Peter answered and said, “The Christ of God.” 21 But He warned them and instructed them not to tell this to anyone, 22 saying, “The Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed and be raised up on the third day.” 23 And He was saying to them all, “If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross daily and follow Me. 24 “For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake, he is the one who will save it. 25 “For what is a man profited if he gains the whole world, and loses or forfeits himself? 26 “For whoever is ashamed of Me and My words, the Son of Man will be ashamed of him when He comes in His glory, and the glory of the Father and of the holy angels. (Luke 9:20–26) Next look at these verses from 1 Corinthians and Hebrews: 30 Why are we also in danger every hour? 31 I affirm, brethren, by the boasting in you which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord, I die daily. 32 If from human motives I fought with wild beasts at Ephesus, what does it profit me? If the dead are not raised, LET US EAT AND DRINK, FOR TOMORROW WE DIE. (1 Corinthians 15:30–32) 1 Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 For consider Him who has endured such hostility by sinners against Himself, so that you will not grow weary band lose heart. 4 You have not yet resisted to the point of shedding blood in your striving against sin; (Hebrews 12:1–4) FYI - in the program I read verses 5-10 in Hebrews. Join with me as we discuss, examine and see how to die to self daily. Grace and peace to all who are in CHRIST JESUS the LORD! Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/hartzmann/no-time-to-die License code: UPDCRRWX55NZZKUM Support the show

Have you ever heard the phrase, "they are a casual Christian" or "they are a carnal Christian"? I bet you have. I have as well. But, interestingly, there is no where in Scripture where this is shown in a positive lite. This type of life is actually depicted of a person lost or having gone so far off the path they are indistinguishable from the world. Join with us now as we engaged the lost truth about being a causal Christian. The two sections of used in this episode are both from Revelation 3. The first church is the example of being a casual Christian. The second is the church the LORD JESUS commends. Now, which are you? Grace and peace to all who are in CHRIST JESUS the LORD! 14 “To the angel of the church in Laodicea write: The Amen, the faithful and true Witness, the Beginning of the creation of God, says this: 15 ‘I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot; I wish that you were cold or hot. 16 ‘So because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of My mouth. 17 ‘Because you say, “I am rich, and have become wealthy, and have need of nothing,” and you do not know that you are wretched and miserable and poor and blind and naked, 18 I advise you to buy from Me gold refined by fire so that you may become rich, and white garments so that you may clothe yourself, and that the shame of your nakedness will not be revealed; and eye salve to anoint your eyes so that you may see. 19 ‘Those whom I love, I reprove and discipline; therefore be zealous and repent. 20 ‘Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and will dine with him, and he with Me. 21 ‘He who overcomes, I will grant to him to sit down with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne. 22 ‘He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.’ ” (Revelation 3:14–22) 7 “And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write: He who is holy, who is true, who has the key of David, who opens and no one will shut, and who shuts and no one opens, says this: 8 ‘I know your deeds. Behold, I have put before you an open door which no one can shut, because you have a little power, and have kept My word, and have not denied My name. 9 ‘Behold, I will cause those of the synagogue of Satan, who say that they are Jews and are not, but lie—I will make them come and bow down at your feet, and make them know that I have loved you. 10 ‘Because you have kept the word of My perseverance, I also will keep you from the hour of testing, that hour which is about to come upon the whole eworld, to test those who dwell on the earth. 11 ‘I am coming quickly; hold fast what you have, so that no one will take your crown. 12 ‘He who overcomes, I will make him a pillar in the temple of My God, and he will not go out from it anymore; and I will write on him the name of My God, and the name of the city of My God, the new Jerusalem, which comes down out of heaven from My God, and My new name. 13 ‘He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.’ (Revelation 3:7–13) Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/hartzmann/no-time-to-die License code: UPDCRRWX55NZZKUM Support the show

I'm not sure we would call soul winning a lost truth, rather a neglected truth. However, it is included for this reason - as a whole, we have stopped talking about the LOVER of our soul. When the LORD JESUS says the world will hate you because it has hated HIM - we flee. We have left our first love and, by and large, stopped talking about HIM as HE has revealed HIMSELF in HIS Word. It's a bit like the country song that says, "I believe in GOD but I don't talk much about it..." Soul winning is an end result of being in love with JESUS. It is what comes naturally from one who is born again and values CHRIST JESUS above all. Jesus says, "If you love ME, you will obey ME." The great commission is to go and make disciples. You do not make disciples by good deeds (living out the gospel). You only make disciples when you sow the Word of GOD in a person's life and GOD opens their eyes and ears. Soul winning should be an active part of every Bible believing church. Supporting missionaries or giving to organizations is not what I mean...does the church you belong too actively seek to proclaim the gospel? If not why? Here are the main Scriptures used in this episode. May they go deep and bear much good fruit in you. Grace and peace to all who are in CHRIST JESUS the LORD! 18 And Jesus came up and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19 “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” (Mt 28:18–20) 9 But you are A CHOSEN RACE, A royal PRIESTHOOD, A HOLY NATION, A PEOPLE FOR God’s OWN POSSESSION, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; (1 Peter 2:9) 6 For while we were still helpless, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. 7 For one will hardly die for a righteous man; though perhaps for the good man someone would dare even to die. 8 But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. 9 Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from the wrath of God through Him. (Romans 5:6–9) Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/hartzmann/no-time-to-die License code: UPDCRRWX55NZZKUM Support the show

When we think about lost truths of the Christian faith the one which would seem like it should not belong is - JESUS is coming. But, that is particularly why it is on the list. We talk about JESUS and HIS return one day. But we don't really think about, share and encourage each other that today could be that day. We don't spend enough time thinking and meditating on the return of CHRIST. The very realization the LORD JESUS is risen and returning should invade every aspect of our daily lives. If we truly believe HE has gone to prepare a place for us and is returning to gather us to HIMSELF, then everything and where we went we would seek to be about HIS business. Join with us as we look at a lost truth and why it is important for us to preach this each and every day to everyone including ourselves. Here are the main Scriptures used for this episode. Grace and peace to all who are in CHRIST JESUS the LORD. Amen. 1 “Do not let your heart be troubled; believe in God, believe also in Me. 2 “In My Father’s house are many dwelling places; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you. 3 “If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am, there you may be also. 4 “And you know the way where I am going.” 5 Thomas *said to Him, “Lord, we do not know where You are going, how do we know the way?” 6 Jesus *said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me. (John 14:1–6) 27 And inasmuch as it is appointed for men to die once and after this comes judgment, 28 so Christ also, having been offered once to bear the sins of many, will appear a second time for salvation without reference to sin, to those who eagerly await Him. (Hebrews 9:27–28) 6 For after all it is only just for God to repay with affliction those who afflict you, 7 and to give relief to you who are afflicted and to us as well awhen the Lord Jesus will be revealed from heaven with His mighty angels in flaming fire, 8 dealing out retribution to those who do not know God and to those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus. 9 These will pay the penalty of eternal destruction, away from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of His power, 10 when He comes to be glorified in His saints on that day, and to be marveled at among all who have believed—for our testimony to you was believed. (2 Thessalonians 1:6–10) Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/hartzmann/no-time-to-die License code: UPDCRRWX55NZZKUM Support the show

In this third episode of season 4 we are looking at one of the most, if not the most, difficult aspects of discipleship and preaching the gospel - counting the cost. Throughout the western church (gathering of people in a building), not the called out ones, something which seems largely absent is the teaching of following CHRIST JESUS the LORD will cost you! 29 For to you it has been granted for Christ’s sake, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake, (Php 1:29) Here are additional Scriptures used in this episode along with a short video by Steve Lawson that are used to demonstrate that following CHRIST will cost you in this world. 25 Now large crowds were going along with Him; and He turned and said to them, 26 “If anyone comes to Me, and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life, he cannot be My disciple. 27 “Whoever does not carry his own cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple. 28 “For which one of you, when he wants to build a tower, does not first sit down and calculate the cost to see if he has enough to complete it? 29 “Otherwise, when he has laid a foundation and is not able to finish, all who observe it begin to ridicule him, 30 saying, ‘This man began to build and was not able to finish.’ 31 “Or what king, when he sets out to meet another king in battle, will not first sit down and consider whether he is strong enough with ten thousand men to encounter the one coming against him with twenty thousand? 32 “Or else, while the other is still far away, he sends a delegation and asks for terms of peace. 33 “So then, none of you can be My disciple who does not give up all his own possessions. 34 “Therefore, salt is good; but if even salt has become tasteless, with what will it be seasoned? 35 “It is useless either for the soil or for the manure pile; it is thrown out. He who has ears to hear, let him hear.” (Luke 14:25–35) 20 “I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me. (Galatians 2:20) 13 but to the degree that you share the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing, so that also at the revelation of His glory you may rejoice with exultation. (1 Peter 4:13) 12 Indeed, all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted. (2 Ti 3:12). (1995) Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/hartzmann/no-time-to-die License code: UPDCRRWX55NZZKUM Support the show

Have you ever heard a group of Christians talking about another believer in this manner, "That person is sold out for JESUS." it is spoken in a manner that identifies this person as someone special from the rest of the believers they are associated with. Have you also heard this statement, "Don't be so heavenly minded that you cannot be of any earthly good."? These are statements I have, unfortunately, heard spoken numerous times. What seems to be statements of positive affirmation are actually statements exposing the carnality of many in the church, especially in the west. This episode we look at the lost truth of being sold-out, which should be the normal for a believer, not the exception. Look at what the LORD JESUS says about being HIS disciple. Ask the question, "How can anything other than being sold-out be true for a believer?" 25 Now large crowds were going along with Him; and He turned and said to them, 26 “If anyone comes to Me, and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life, he cannot be My disciple. 27 “Whoever does not carry his own cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple. 28 “For which one of you, when he wants to build a tower, does not first sit down and calculate the cost to see if he has enough to complete it? 29 “Otherwise, when he has laid a foundation and is not able to finish, all who observe it begin to ridicule him, 30 saying, ‘This man began to build and was not able to finish.’ 31 “Or what king, when he sets out to meet another king in battle, will not first sit down and consider whether he is strong enough with ten thousand men to encounter the one coming against him with twenty thousand? 32 “Or else, while the other is still far away, he sends a delegation and asks for terms of peace. 33 “So then, none of you can be My disciple who does not give up all his own possessions. 34 “Therefore, salt is good; but if even salt has become tasteless, with what will it be seasoned? 35 “It is useless either for the soil or for the manure pile; it is thrown out. He who has ears to hear, let him hear.” (Luke 14:25–35) Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/hartzmann/no-time-to-die License code: UPDCRRWX55NZZKUM Support the show