Wesley Livingston Bible studies

Tonight, we continue our journey through the exciting book of Philippians. Picking up where Pastor Stephen Armstrong left off nearly three years ago, we delve into the essence of Paul’s letter: our participation in the gospel. Despite his difficult circumstances, imprisoned for the sake of Christ, Paul’s message overflows with love and thanksgiving for the Philippian church. He finds joy not in his situation, but in the Philippians’ fellowship with Christ, a fellowship that began with the gospel’s message. This “fellowship” is not a passive association; it’s an active participation. From the very beginning of their faith, the Philippians actively shared in the work of the gospel. They partnered with Paul in spreading the good news, even financially supporting his ministry. Their participation stemmed from their shared salvation in Christ. This salvation is a continuous process, beginning with justification, the moment we place our faith in Christ. Sanctification, the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit, transforms us to become more like Christ. Finally, at the Rapture, glorification will be complete, and we will be in the presence of Christ forever. Paul’s prayer for the Philippians is that their love for one another would continue to grow, along with their knowledge and discernment. This growth is rooted in God’s sovereignty, but it also requires our participation in studying God’s word. As we reflect on Paul’s message to the Philippians, let us consider our own participation in the gospel. Are we actively sharing our faith and supporting the spread of the good news? Do we allow God’s word to transform us? May we, like the Philippians, be filled with the joy that comes from participating in Christ’s work. Notes: https://media.versebyverseministry.org/uploads/lesson_translations/1455/notes_file/3e37b3e2d5c0e94d6b59e43feb16fe62.pdf Slides: https://media.versebyverseministry.org/uploads/lesson_translations/1455/slides_file/a62eb23b8282f885a74990abac7be3b1.pdf Web: https://versebyverseministry.org/lessons/philippians-1b

John the Baptist played a pivotal role in preparing the hearts and minds of the people for the coming of Jesus Christ. His message was simple yet profound: repent and prepare for the kingdom of heaven. Mark describes John's appearance in the wilderness, preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. People flocked to hear John's message, and many were baptized in the Jordan River. John's message had three parts: a call to action (repent), a call to act (respond), and a message to believe (receive). John called on people to change their minds and turn away from their sins. This repentance was not just a feeling of sorry, but a genuine change of heart that led to a change in behavior. John's baptism was a symbol of this inward change. Just as an object dipped in dye takes on the color of the dye, those baptized by John were committing themselves to the coming Messiah. John's message was a challenge to the religious leaders of the day. They focused on outward rituals rather than inward transformation. John demanded that they bear fruit in keeping with repentance. In conclusion, John the Baptist's message is just as relevant today as it was then. We are all called to repent of our sins and turn to God. John's message is a message of hope and transformation, and it is a message that can change our lives.

Noted as Paul’s most affectionate letter, the book of Philippians captures Paul’s immense love and care for the Philippian church. In this book, the Apostle Paul centers his writing on the believer’s need to remain resolute amid great suffering. The theme of his message centers on the joy found in Christ in all things. In this verse by verse, expositional study through the book of Philippians, Pastor Livingston will show how the Apostle Paul, through great compassion, hopeful confidence, and loving warning, steers the believers to experience true joy in living, serving, knowing, and resting in Christ. Join us LIVE in San Antonio every Thursday night at 7:00 PM (CST) Thousand Oaks Bible Church 15801Jones Maltsberger Road San Antonio, Texas 78247

Have you ever wondered why you're facing challenges in your life? Why, despite everything you do, you still feel lost? The answer can be found in Philippians 1:3-5. In this passage, Paul tells us that our purpose is to live for Christ. Our lives are not meant to be lived for ourselves. We are here to share the Gospel, the good news of Jesus Christ, with the world. This doesn't mean everyone needs to become a pastor or missionary. Everyone can participate in the Gospel by living their life in a way that honors God. The Philippian church is a great example of this. From the very beginning of their faith, they made the Gospel a part of their everyday lives. They didn't wait to be pastors or missionaries. They found ways to share their faith in their workplaces, homes, and communities. So how can we make the Gospel a part of our everyday lives? Here are a few ideas: - Look for opportunities to share your faith with others. This could be through conversations with friends and family, or by volunteering in your community. - Live your life in a way that honors God. This means being honest, kind, and compassionate. - Let your light shine! Be a positive example of what it means to follow Christ. When we make the Gospel our lifestyle, we are fulfilling the purpose for which we were created. We are also bringing joy to God, just as the Philippian church brought joy to Paul. Notes: https://media.versebyverseministry.org/uploads/lesson_translations/1454/notes_file/d54ce21073f197cf419f03012ee76a8e.pdf Slides: https://media.versebyverseministry.org/uploads/lesson_translations/1454/slides_file/ebdb34b6dbb315fc997756b5d74c1b50.pdf Web: https://versebyverseministry.org/lessons/philippians-1a Taught by Stephen Armstrong, Founder, VBVMI.

The Gospel of Mark presents a unique perspective on the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. Unlike other Gospels that focus on Jesus' lineage or target specific audiences, Mark dives straight into the heart of the good news: Jesus Christ, the Son of God. This opening verse sets the stage for the entire Gospel. Mark proclaims that the arrival of Jesus Christ is the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan, a message of hope and victory. Jesus isn't just a teacher or prophet; He is the divine Messiah, descended from heaven to usher in the Kingdom of God. John the Baptist serves as the forerunner, preparing the way for Jesus' arrival. Just as Isaiah prophesied, John's ministry calls for repentance and preparing hearts for the coming King. This emphasis on repentance underscores the need for a change of heart to embrace Jesus' message of salvation. Mark's Gospel, though targeted towards a Roman audience, resonates with all who seek truth. By stripping away cultural and ancestral details, Mark presents Jesus in His raw power and divinity. As we delve deeper into this Gospel, we will gain a deeper understanding of who Jesus is, why He came, and the significance of His sacrifice for humanity.