Weekly Message

Does it Matter How The Universe Came to Exist? Yes, beliefs about creation will affect your ethical and moral behavior. The bible has a great deal to say about creation, but it is not a textbook of scientific data. This message cites only 4 verses [out of many] to show that the new testament does engage on the essential questions of proof, evidence, reason, and faith. Hit the LIKE button 👍 to help more people see this message QUESTION -- Have a question about This Message... Other Bible Questions... or Anything Else? Post in comments section of this video! -----Locate a UCG meeting near you------ ➤ http://ucg.org/congregations/ 🎪 Find our podcast here: https://open.spotify.com/show/3BrkjwU3izZEBsmtx60swZ?si=a39330c58384413c We live in the age of technology, or science applied to solving the practical problems of life. Discoveries in physics, chemistry, math have allowed us to develop complex machines, to invent powerful drugs, to peer into the structure of atoms, and to discover truths about the vast universe. Human knowledge and ingenuity have accomplished much. And because of the huge success of technology in addressing the comfort, convenience and needs of human beings... we assume that physicists, chemists, and mathematicians have better answers to questions about life’s origins and purpose. And scientists seem eager to offer their opinions about big questions: Is there anything beyond the material universe? Where does life come from? How did matter become organized and structured? Does God exist? Their speculations have deeply influenced modern thinking. The average person might assume that discussions, questions, and debate about how the universe came about and how human beings came to be are "modern day" questions. Or, that we are only now asking these questions because only now do we have enough understanding about the mechanical functions of the universe to even know what to ask... or even dare to attempt an answer. However, the debate about creation has been going on for a long time. People were debating the same questions back in Jesus day. And some were successfully promoting the same sort of materialist answers as we hear in the 21st century. The debate was put on hold for about 1,200 - 1,400 years because of the tremendous power and influence of the Catholic church. But, now the discussion is back in full fury. Photos by Unknown author is licensed under CC BY-NC.​ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/3.0/

Because we understand the truth of what God is accomplishing in the world we can have a positive, uplifting outlook on the events and circumstances life throws at us. Hebrews 12:2, the joy Jesus had was not based on material circumstances, rather it was based on knowing that what He was experiencing had purpose and was leading toward a positive outcome. This is how spiritually mature people think. Hit the LIKE button 👍 to help more people see this message QUESTION -- Have a question about This Message... Other Bible Questions... or Anything Else? Post in comments section of this video! -----Locate a UCG meeting near you------ ➤ http://ucg.org/congregations/ 🎪 Find our podcast here: https://open.spotify.com/show/3BrkjwU3izZEBsmtx60swZ?si=a39330c58384413c Philippians 4:1 those who are spiritually mature allow this understanding and perspective to give them confidence and joy in their present circumstances as they look toward that goal. Filter everything your think and do through this foundational principle. And in this way "seek first the kingdom of God". Read this message on our blog: 👉 https://ucgraleigh.blogspot.com/2022/10/how-spiritually-mature-people-think.html Photos by Unknown author is licensed under CC BY-NC.​ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/3.0/

We should always work towards living our lives in a manner worthy of the kingdom of God regardless of the circumstances we find ourselves in. Hit the LIKE button 👍 to help more people see this message QUESTION -- Have a question about This Message... Other Bible Questions... or Anything Else? Post in comments section of this video! -----Locate a UCG meeting near you------ ➤ http://ucg.org/congregations/ 🎪 Find our podcast here: https://open.spotify.com/show/3BrkjwU3izZEBsmtx60swZ?si=a39330c58384413c What differs in lives worthy of the gospel is the ethic/motivation. No longer should we view status, honors, or roles as opportunities for self-glory, ego boosting, or material gain. Rather, we should view whatever status or honor we are given as opportunity to do good for others…. especially within the context of regular assembly. Jesus took on the lower status of mortal flesh, among human beings He acted as a servant. Then, he endured a form of death considered most shameful. Paul is emphasizing the lengths to which Christ was willing to go to serve... and presents this as a cure for the party spirit and factionalism in Philippi Read this message on our blog: 👉 https://ucgraleigh.blogspot.com/2022/10/living-worthy-of-gospel.html Photos by Unknown author is licensed under CC BY-NC.​ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/3.0/

In the prophecies of Revelation we find out that the final trumpet is the last in a sequence of 7 trumpets. These 7 trumpets begin to blow in succession with the opening of the 7th seal Revelation 8:1-2. We also learn from the prophecies of Revelation that the last 3 of these 7 trumpets form a grouping, or a subset of the 7 trumpets... referred to as "the three woes" Revelation 8:13. This message will review the final blast of the 7th trumpet as part of this final grouping of three trumpet blasts. In other words, trumpets 5, 6, and 7. Hit the LIKE button 👍 to help more people see this message QUESTION -- Have a question about This Message... Other Bible Questions... or Anything Else? Post in comments section of this video! -----Locate a UCG meeting near you------ ➤ http://ucg.org/congregations/ 🎪 Find our podcast here: https://open.spotify.com/show/3BrkjwU3izZEBsmtx60swZ?si=a39330c58384413c 📚 Dig deeper into your bible with this helpful bible study guide: https://www.ucg.org/bible-study-tools/booklets/seven-prophetic-signs-before-jesus-returns Read this message on our blog: 👉 https://ucgraleigh.blogspot.com/2022/09/the-three-woes-of-seventh-seal.html Photos by Unknown author is licensed under CC BY-NC.​ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/3.0/

Jesus tells us the meaning of the 5th and 6th seals in His prophetic teaching recorded in Matthew chapter 24. The 5th seal will be be persecution upon the people of God. The 6th seal will be signs in the sky. This video will go into detail on two of the signs that immediately precede the coming of Christ. These are the 5th and 6th seals of Revelation 6:9-14. Hit the LIKE button 👍 to help more people see this message QUESTION -- Have a question about This Message... Other Bible Questions... or Anything Else? Post in comments section of this video! -----Locate a UCG meeting near you------ ➤ http://ucg.org/congregations/ 🎪 Find our podcast here: https://open.spotify.com/show/3BrkjwU3izZEBsmtx60swZ?si=a39330c58384413c 📚 Dig deeper into your bible with this helpful bible study guide: https://www.ucg.org/bible-study-tools/booklets/seven-prophetic-signs-before-jesus-returns Read this message on our blog: 👉 https://ucgraleigh.blogspot.com/2022/09/the-5th-and-6th-seals-of-revelation.html Photos by Unknown author is licensed under CC BY-NC.​ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/3.0/

Daniel in the Lion's Den is one of the most well known events in the bible! The setting is the aftermath of the Persian conquest of Babylon. A new government was being formed... very likely within the first or second year 539-537 BC. Daniel was over 80 years old but God still had a few more things for him to do. Hit the LIKE button 👍 to help more people see this message QUESTION -- Have a question about This Message... Other Bible Questions... or Anything Else? Post in comments section of this video! -----Locate a UCG meeting near you------ ➤ http://ucg.org/congregations/ 🎪 Find our podcast here: https://open.spotify.com/show/3BrkjwU3izZEBsmtx60swZ?si=a39330c58384413c Read this message on our blog: 👉 https://ucgraleigh.blogspot.com/2022/09/daniel-and-darius-mede-thrown-into-den.html Photos by Unknown author is licensed under CC BY-NC.​ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/3.0/

According to the historians Xenophon and Herodotus Belshazzar's feast happened October 12 539 BC. 30 years had passed since the death of Nebuchadnezzar… a new king was on the throne… and Daniel the prophet was an old man [probably 80 years old]. Hit the LIKE button 👍 to help more people see this message QUESTION -- Have a question about This Message... Other Bible Questions... or Anything Else? Post in comments section of this video! -----Locate a UCG meeting near you------ ➤ http://ucg.org/congregations/ 🎪 Find our podcast here: https://open.spotify.com/show/3BrkjwU3izZEBsmtx60swZ?si=a39330c58384413c Read this message on our blog: 👉 https://ucgraleigh.blogspot.com/2022/09/belshazzars-feast-handwriting-on-wall.html Photos by Unknown author is licensed under CC BY-NC.​ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/3.0/

I you do the work of reorganizing our priorities and broadening your perspective to embrace eternity you will see purpose in your life... and when you see that purpose you will find joy... no matter what! Hit the LIKE button 👍 to help more people see this message QUESTION -- Have a question about This Message... Other Bible Questions... or Anything Else? Post in comments section of this video! -----Locate a UCG meeting near you------ ➤ http://ucg.org/congregations/ 🎪 Find our podcast here: https://open.spotify.com/show/3BrkjwU3izZEBsmtx60swZ?si=a39330c58384413c 📚 Dig deeper into your bible with this helpful bible study guide: https://www.ucg.org/bible-study-tools/booklets/why-were-you-born Rejoice, Because Your Life Has Purpose A great and horrible lie taken root in our society... the lie is this: "human life has no purpose". We are not created beings with a great destiny to fulfill. We are a highly improbable accident that came about by a series of random events. We come from nothing and our end is nothing. In between the best we can do is grab a bit of pleasure and enjoyment until the day we die. God's message to you is that your life does have purpose... and knowing that purpose is the way to find great joy... no matter what your circumstances. Read this message on our blog: 👉 https://ucgraleigh.blogspot.com/2022/08/knowing-gods-purpose-for-your-life.html Photos by Unknown author is licensed under CC BY-NC.​ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/3.0/

At the end of the book of Proverbs we find a character sketch of a woman… she’s a good woman, she’s a wife, she’s a mother. Through her we are given a short summary of the practical wisdom presented in the book of Proverbs interpreted in the setting of a happy home. In biblical thought, true wisdom is pictured by contentment with diligent work in a safe, peaceful, structured family setting…. We must actively teach this Godly wisdom to our children. We must do this in word and in deed. Hit the LIKE button 👍 to help more people see this message QUESTION -- Have a question about This Message... Other Bible Questions... or Anything Else? Post in comments section of this video! -----Locate a UCG meeting near you------ ➤ http://ucg.org/congregations/ 🎪 Find our podcast here: https://open.spotify.com/show/3BrkjwU3izZEBsmtx60swZ?si=a39330c58384413c 📚 Dig deeper into your bible with this helpful bible study guide: https://www.ucg.org/bible-study-tools/booklets/marriage-and-family-the-missing-dimension Read this message on our blog: 👉https://ucgraleigh.blogspot.com/2022/08/the-proverbs-31-woman.html Photos by Unknown author is licensed under CC BY-NC.​ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/3.0/

What does it mean to seek first the kingdom of God. Is it a place in time or is it a something more... Hit the LIKE button 👍 to help more people see this message QUESTION -- Have a question about This Message... Other Bible Questions... or Anything Else? Post in comments section of this video! -----Locate a UCG meeting near you------ ➤ http://ucg.org/congregations/ 🎪 Find our podcast here: https://open.spotify.com/show/3BrkjwU3izZEBsmtx60swZ?si=a39330c58384413c 📚 Dig deeper into your bible with this helpful bible study guide: https://www.ucg.org/bible-study-tools/booklets/the-gospel-of-the-kingdom Read this message on our blog: 👉 https://ucgraleigh.blogspot.com/2022/07/seek-first-kingdom-of-god.html Photos by Unknown author is licensed under CC BY-NC.​ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/3.0/

Daniel was placed, by God, into an important position within the court of the Babylonian King. He was put there to witness to God's sovereign power over all nations. The lesson for you and me is this: because God controls and directs the affairs of the earth kingdoms we should be mindful that He can and does control the events of your life. Hit the LIKE button 👍 to help more people see this message QUESTION -- Have a question about This Message... Other Bible Questions... or Anything Else? Post in comments section of this video! -----Locate a UCG meeting near you------ ➤ http://ucg.org/congregations/ 🎪 Find our podcast here: https://open.spotify.com/show/3BrkjwU3izZEBsmtx60swZ?si=a39330c58384413c 📚 Dig deeper into your bible with this helpful bible study guide: https://www.ucg.org/bible-study-tools/booklets/you-can-understand-bible-prophecy God was working with Daniel and his companions through the power of His spirit. God gave Daniel spiritual and intellectual gifts. He understood the literature, culture and wisdom of Babylon... but it would be the interpreting of dreams that would cause Daniel to rise to power in the king's court... where he would serve as God's witness. Daniel had proven his obedience through the simple test of not defiling himself with the royal food [either unclean or having been offered to idols]. This is why the book of Daniel begins with a test of obedience! Acts 5:32 "God gives His spirit to those who obey Him" Read this message on our blog: 👉 https://ucgraleigh.blogspot.com/2022/06/daniel-and-magicians-of-babylon.html Photos by Unknown author is licensed under CC BY-NC.​ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/3.0/

The bible revelation tells us there is the Father and there is the Son, and they are God. They are two beings in a relationship based on love and commitment. Their example gives us spiritual guidelines for building Godly marriages... each partner fulfilling distinct roles in a spirit of unity. On the flip side, actively seeking to build a Godly marriage can help us understand the mind of God and what He's up to. Hit the LIKE button 👍 to help more people see this message QUESTION -- Have a question about This Message... Other Bible Questions... or Anything Else? Post in comments section of this video! -----Locate a UCG meeting near you------ ➤ http://ucg.org/congregations/ 🎪 Find our podcast here: https://open.spotify.com/show/3BrkjwU3izZEBsmtx60swZ?si=a39330c58384413c 📚 Dig deeper into your bible with this helpful bible study guide: https://www.ucg.org/bible-study-tools/booklets/who-is-god Read this message on our blog: 👉 Photos by Unknown author is licensed under CC BY-NC.​ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/3.0/

There is a new world order coming... but not the way people imagine it. There is "one world government" coming... but not as people hope or fear. The groundwork for the "new world order"... "one world government" is being prepared by God through His Church. Everything God is currently working on is directed toward the restoration of His will upon earth. Everything we are doing now is preparing for that next step... which is the return of Christ. Hit the LIKE button 👍 to help more people see this message QUESTION -- Have a question about This Message... Other Bible Questions... or Anything Else? Post in comments section of this video! -----Locate a UCG meeting near you------ ➤ http://ucg.org/congregations/ 🎪 Find our podcast here: https://open.spotify.com/show/3BrkjwU3izZEBsmtx60swZ?si=a39330c58384413c 📚 Dig deeper into your bible with this helpful bible study guide: https://www.ucg.org/bible-study-tools/booklets/the-gospel-of-the-kingdom Read this message on our blog: 👉 https://ucgraleigh.blogspot.com/2022/06/prepare-now-for-whats-coming-next.html Photos by Unknown author is licensed under CC BY-NC.​ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/3.0/

Babylon was [and still is] a cultural, social, and political model of human self government with its own standards of righteousness... standards that are presented as the alternative to the righteousness, and authority of God. Daniel's life in the court of King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon called upon him to take a stand for obedience to the living God rather that human government. Hit the LIKE button 👍 to help more people see this message QUESTION -- Have a question about This Message... Other Bible Questions... or Anything Else? Post in comments section of this video! -----Locate a UCG meeting near you------ ➤ http://ucg.org/congregations/ 🎪 Find our podcast here: https://open.spotify.com/show/3BrkjwU3izZEBsmtx60swZ?si=a39330c58384413c Daniel was given a commission in the service of Nebuchadnezzar. If he had never gotten himself into his controversy over unclean food he probably would have obtained some minor position in the Babylon’s court and gone on to enjoy a nice life. But Daniel's resolve and commitment to obey God also set him up to be a servant of God in a big way. God gave him special gifts of knowledge and understanding. He would be a witness of God's truth to the first of the great gentile kingdoms, he would become a prophet to his own generation and to ours. And it began with obedience Acts 5:27-32. You cannot serve God... you cannot, be a witness of His true message, you will not properly represent Him in a hostile world... if you do not obey. Daniel was trained in the literature and culture of Babylon... laws, mathematics, astronomy, etc. He would have also learned about their religious system, their customs, and moral code. Some of it would have been value neutral. Some of it would have been opposed to God. To be an effective servant of God Daniel needed to understand the Babylonians, what they taught, what they believed. He knew all this but was able to hold himself apart from it. You and I are in the same position. We need to understand what is going on in the world… but not be sucked into its ways. We Also Live in a Babylon World God has not called you so that you can be whisked off to a safe place somewhere off the grid where you can practice your religion without conflict, questioning, or trials. You have been called to serve him as a witness of His ways 1 Peter 3:13-18. Read this message on our blog: 👉 https://ucgraleigh.blogspot.com/2022/05/daniel-in-court-of-king-nebuchadnezzar.html Photos by Unknown author is licensed under CC BY-NC.​ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/3.0/

Daniel was a man called to serve God in a strange, unexpected and frightening way. Daniel was a teenager who was taken captive by Babylonian army in the year 605 B.C. He would be used by God to record important prophecies concerning the course of human history from the fall of Israel through to the end of age and the return of the Messiah. Hit the LIKE button 👍 to help more people see this message QUESTION -- Have a question about This Message... Other Bible Questions... or Anything Else? Post in comments section of this video! -----Locate a UCG meeting near you------ ➤ http://ucg.org/congregations/ 🎪 Find our podcast here: https://open.spotify.com/show/3BrkjwU3izZEBsmtx60swZ?si=a39330c58384413c In the eyes of the watching world YHWH was broken and defeated... Daniel's purpose and calling was to speak the truth to these powerful rulers... Do not mistake YHWH's discipline upon Israel for weakness on His part... YHWH the god of Abraham, Issac, Jacob, and Daniel remains the almighty God... He is supreme over all. Daniel was a man called to serve God in a strange, unexpected and frightening way. Who knows what you or I might face in the years ahead… Through it all Daniel was able top remain faithful to God and true to himself. Read this message on our blog: 👉 https://ucgraleigh.blogspot.com/2022/05/life-and-times-of-daniel-prophet.html Photos by Unknown author is licensed under CC BY-NC.​ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/3.0/

The proper response to the deliverance made possible through Christ is obedience and effort to overcome sin. The back-to-back biblical festivals of Passover and Unleavened Bread picture the effort God is expecting us to make after He has redeemed us from the penalty of sin. Hit the LIKE button 👍 to help more people see this message QUESTION -- Have a question about This Message... Other Bible Questions... or Anything Else? Post in comments section of this video! -----Locate a UCG meeting near you------ ➤ http://ucg.org/congregations/ 🎪 Find our podcast here: https://open.spotify.com/show/3BrkjwU3izZEBsmtx60swZ?si=a39330c58384413c 📚 Dig deeper into your bible with this helpful bible study guide: https://www.ucg.org/bible-study-tools/booklets/gods-holy-day-plan-the-promise-of-hope-for-all-mankind The Proper Response to God’s Deliverance is Obedience To keep us mindful of our necessary follow-up to our personal forgiveness and redemption embedded in Passover. God has given us the festival of Unleavened Bread. Each depicts a separate and unique step in God’s plan but there is no pause or break between the two. Prominently built into the 7 days of Unleavened Bread is a powerful and clear symbol of sin... the common household ingredient LEAVEN. We are commanded to put it our of our homes and not put it into our mouths for the entire 7 days of the festival. It is a reminder that after deliverance we are to be actively engaged in putting sin out of our life… and putting Christ into our life. To observe the Passover and neglect the day of unleavened bread [as some do]... is comparable to accepting Christ's sacrifice and then neglecting to exert any effort in overcoming sin. Read this message on our blog: 👉 https://ucgraleigh.blogspot.com/2022/04/christ-does-his-part-now-you-need-to-do.html Photos by Unknown author is licensed under CC BY-NC.​ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/3.0/

Each of the 7 festivals pictures a necessary, and distinct, step in the work God is doing. They are a road map for the process of our own spiritual creation... and for God's large scale plan of filling the universe with life. They cover past, present, and future... They address all the known universe... They are for every man, woman, and child who has ever drawn the breath of life. Hit the LIKE button 👍 to help more people see this message QUESTION -- Have a question about This Message... Other Bible Questions... or Anything Else? Post in comments section of this video! -----Locate a UCG meeting near you------ ➤ http://ucg.org/congregations/ 🎪 Find our podcast here: https://open.spotify.com/show/3BrkjwU3izZEBsmtx60swZ?si=a39330c58384413c 📚 Dig deeper into your bible with this helpful bible study guide: https://www.ucg.org/bible-study-tools/booklets/gods-holy-day-plan-the-promise-of-hope-for-all-mankind Read this message on our blog: 👉 Photos by Unknown author is licensed under CC BY-NC.​ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/3.0/ The people of Israel never understood how the holy days pictured God's plan of salvation and spiritual birth... their lack of understanding was not because they were stupid... but because they did not have God's holy spirit within them… and they did not accept the messengers God sent them. In history and in time, God used Israel to establish the physical routine of keeping these days... and it is through Israel that the holy days have been recorded and preserved throughout history Romans 3:2-4. Leviticus 23:1-2 These are not "festivals of the Jews"... God says, "these are MY APPOINTED TIMES". The job of Israel and the Jews was to proclaim them! We owe Israel a debt of gratitude for the role Israel has played in preserving these days. But, we do not look to them for understanding of what these appointed holy days of God mean. Israel foolishly rejected the Messiah king sent to them [Jesus].... without an understanding and appreciation of Christ no one can understand the spiritual lesson of the holy days. The holy days and festivals are about what Jesus Christ has done, what He is doing right now, and what He will yet do in the future.

Was Judas [and the others] becoming impatient with Jesus... wanting to see more action... more implementation of social justice... a more obvious political stance against the Roman oppressors... was there bitterness? ... questions about how money was being handled? Whatever it was, Satan used the opportunity to enter Judas and use him to inflict damage on his enemy... Jesus. Hit the LIKE button 👍 to help more people see this message QUESTION -- Have a question about This Message... Other Bible Questions... or Anything Else? Post in comments section of this video! -----Locate a UCG meeting near you------ ➤ http://ucg.org/congregations/ 🎪 Find us on alternative sites: https://https://linktr.ee/UCGRaleigh Read this message on our blog: 👉 https://ucgraleigh.blogspot.com/2022/03/jesus-betrayed-by-judas-for-30-pieces.html Photos by Unknown author is licensed under CC BY-NC.​ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/3.0/ On the 14th of Nisan Jesus and the disciples gathered together for the Passover meal. Judas was there, present as one of Jesus inner circle of friends and comrades. Before eating, the disciples were arguing about who would be the most important in the Kingdom of God [which they all expected to happen at any moment]. Jesus redirects the conversation and tells them that service towards others will be the mark of greatness in the KOG rather than rank or honor. Jesus demonstrated this new attitude about what is considered great through washing the feet of the disciples. So, Judas would have had his feet washed by Jesus. Read John 13:15-18. As they began the meal Jesus was agitated in spirit and told them that one of them was going to betray Him. Naturally, the disciples all wanted to know who it was... Jesus said, "it is the one to whom I will give this piece of bread when I have dipped it in the dish" Then He dipped the piece of bread and gave it to Judas Iscariot"... Judas said "surely its not me teacher". Jesus said, "yes its you". Satan once again enters Judas. Judas then leaves to meet up with the chief priests and temple police who want Jesus arrested and killed. After Judas is gone, Jesus tells the remaining disciples the time has come. Then He institutes the new covenant symbols of the Passover... the bread and the wine. I think it is significant that Judas was not present during the taking of the bread and wine.., Christ's blood and body. Afterwards, Jesus goes through a lengthy session of instruction [recorded in John 14-17 which we will read through together on Passover evening]. That night, Jesus takes the disciples to the Mount of Olives overlooking Jerusalem to pray. In the dark Judas leads a detachment of soldiers to where he knows Jesus and the disciples will be. A secluded place far from any crowd. To make sure they arrest the right person Judas walks up to Jesus and greets Him with a kiss of fellowship [which was a pre-arranged signal to the soldiers]. Jesus says "friend, what brings you here" [Matthew 26:48-54]. Jesus is arrested, given a mock trial, and sentenced to death. When Judas hears the news, he realizes what he has done, tries to undo it by giving back the money to the priests and elders. He says I have sinned... this is all a terrible mistake... Jesus is an innocent man. Read Matthew 27:3-10. Embedded in this narrative are two prophecies about the rejection of the Messiah: 1) He will be betrayed by a friend [Psalm 41:9] 2) He will be sold out for 30 pieces of silver [Zechariah 11:13] which will be used to buy a potter's field [Jeremiah 19:1-13, 32:6-9]. What might the significance of these two prophesied details of Jesus' road to the crucifixion be?

Jesus rode a donkey for his final entry in to Jerusalem, on one hand to fulfill prophecy... on the other hand to signify that He comes in peace. Hit the LIKE button 👍 to help more people see this message QUESTION -- Have a question about This Message... Other Bible Questions... or Anything Else? Post in comments section of this video! -----Locate a UCG meeting near you------ ➤ http://ucg.org/congregations/ 🎪 Find our podcast here: https://open.spotify.com/show/3BrkjwU3izZEBsmtx60swZ?si=a39330c58384413c In this message we have looked at only a sliver of the prophesies God gave to validate His written word. The rejection of the Messiah/ king who came in peace, was prophesied almost 2,000 years in advance. More detail was added through the centuries. God knew in advance humanity would reject Him... and they did. Without intervention from God the human heart will not be ruled by God or conform to His ways. However, through the blood of Jesus Christ you can enter into a new and better relationship with the creator of the universe. A relationship of peace and reconciliation. We will memorialize this bond of peace once again at this year’s Passover. Read this message on our blog: 👉 https://ucgraleigh.blogspot.com/2022/03/the-king-of-peace-comes-humbly-and.html Photos by Unknown author is licensed under CC BY-NC.​ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/3.0/

Your conscience can be trained... for better or for worse. It can be trained to judge rightly by God's word... it can also be trained to trade good for evil. A guilty conscience is there to warn you and help you overcome sin. You can ignore it or you can use your sense of guilt as motivation to change and allow yourself to molded into a fully mature child of God. Hit the LIKE button 👍 to help more people see this message QUESTION -- Have a question about This Message... Other Bible Questions... or Anything Else? Post in comments section of this video! -----Locate a UCG meeting near you------ ➤ http://ucg.org/congregations/ 🎪 Find our podcast here: https://open.spotify.com/show/3BrkjwU3izZEBsmtx60swZ?si=a39330c58384413c Read this message on our blog: 👉 https://ucgraleigh.blogspot.com/2022/03/the-care-and-feeding-of-clean-conscience.html Where Does This Common Knowledge Come From? Romans 1:18-21, 2:14-16 some moral awareness comes from the nature of the creation. Certain forces, laws, order are baked into the physical which we all share. A degree of moral truth is equally available to Buddhists, Muslims, Hindus, and Christians. All share in a common body of moral awareness. 2 Corinthians 1:12-14 additional aspects of moral understanding and awareness are known through the revelation of our Creator. This happens on two levels: through His written word which is available to anyone [through preaching or print] through His spirit which is restricted to those whom God chooses to give it Some of what informs the conscience is available through observation. The most important set of information comes from the revelation of our Creator. Photos by Unknown author is licensed under CC BY-NC.​ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/3.0/

The relationship of Christ & the Church is pictured through the analogy of the temple where they come together. Hit the LIKE button 👍 to help more people see this message QUESTION -- Have a question about This Message... Other Bible Questions... or Anything Else? Post in comments section of this video! -----Locate a UCG meeting near you------ ➤ http://ucg.org/congregations/ 🎪 Find our podcast here: https://open.spotify.com/show/3BrkjwU3izZEBsmtx60swZ?si=a39330c58384413c 📚 Dig deeper into your bible with this helpful bible study guide: https://www.ucg.org/bible-study-tools/booklets/the-church-jesus-built Christ is the Foundation of the Temple [Church] The structure begins and ends with Christ, then we who are "in Christ" are the living stones that make up the rest of the building. This biblical analogy emphasizes themes of being fit together in unity, oneness of construction, sharing the same foundation and capstone which is Christ. Read this message on our blog: 👉 https://ucgraleigh.blogspot.com/2022/03/the-church-is-temple-of-god-and-christ.html Photos by Unknown author is licensed under CC BY-NC.​ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/3.0/

Working towards your reward is a sound biblical concept that should not get mixed up and lost in discussions about the mechanics of salvation from death and receiving eternal life. Hit the LIKE button 👍 to help more people see this message QUESTION -- Have a question about This Message... Other Bible Questions... or Anything Else? Post in comments section of this video! -----Locate a UCG meeting near you------ ➤ http://ucg.org/congregations/ 🎪 Find our podcast here: https://open.spotify.com/show/3BrkjwU3izZEBsmtx60swZ?si=a39330c58384413c We may not have a lot of specifics or detail on the rewards God has in store but if we know Him, know his character and trust Him… then the rewards are beyond what we can imagine… The nature of the righteous acts God rewards are such that in pursuing them we actually build God-like character that does not crave reward and recognition… which of course is a real reward in and of itself. Revelation 22:12 Read this message on our blog: 👉 https://ucgraleigh.blogspot.com/2022/02/your-reward-from-god-what-is-it-and-how.html Photos by Unknown author is licensed under CC BY-NC.​ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/3.0/

When God blesses human beings He grants, bestows, makes possible material prosperity or a state of well-being that is emotional, intellectual, and spiritual in effect. Today we are going to take a close look at blessing from the bible: who blesses who, how we receive blessings, how we give blessings, physical versus spiritual blessings, and finally how the flow of blessing can influence our prayers. Hit the LIKE button 👍 to help more people see this message QUESTION -- Have a question about This Message... Other Bible Questions... or Anything Else? Post in comments section of this video! -----Locate a UCG meeting near you------ ➤ http://ucg.org/congregations/ 🎪 Find our podcast here: https://open.spotify.com/show/3BrkjwU3izZEBsmtx60swZ?si=a39330c58384413c Some Reasons God Blesses Although God does not owe human beings anything for their behavior He is pleased to bless people and within the old covenant context makes it clear He blesses people for keeping His laws Deuteronomy 7:12-14. An important sub-category would be those who seek wisdom Proverbs 8:13,33 [tuning in to the way things really are]. God's interaction with Israel took these material blessings very seriously [they were presented as proof of God’s faithfulness to His covenant promises] … Israel also enjoyed spiritual blessings but the material received greater emphasis. The were How God would “prove” and provide a witness of His presence, His commandments, His reality through Israel. For those of us in a new covenant relationship with God greater emphasis is put on the spiritual blessings... but, the the material blessings God provides are also present. In addition to obedience the NT writings add a few important ideas that feed into understanding who God blesses: those who are faithful [Hebrews 11:20 Revelation 16:15] those who endure through suffering and trial, James 1:12, Matthew 5:11] those who believe the truth [hold fast to enlightenment] Matthew 13:16 Luke 10:23, 11:27. Read this message on our blog: 👉 https://ucgraleigh.blogspot.com/2022/02/what-are-spiritual-blessings-from-god.html Photos by Unknown author is licensed under CC BY-NC.​ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/3.0/

The 5th Commandment tells children to honor their parents... the bible also instructs parents that they have some serious responsibilities they owe to their children. This message review 6 responsibilities parents have according to the bible. Hit the LIKE button 👍 to help more people see this message QUESTION -- Have a question about This Message... Other Bible Questions... or Anything Else? Post in comments section of this video! -----Locate a UCG meeting near you------ ➤ http://ucg.org/congregations/ 🎪 Find our podcast here: https://open.spotify.com/show/3BrkjwU3izZEBsmtx60swZ?si=a39330c58384413c 📚 Dig deeper into your bible with this helpful bible study guide: https://www.ucg.org/bible-study-tools/booklets/marriage-and-family-the-missing-dimension There Is No Silver Bullet This is not a fool-proof formula that guarantees success if perfectly applied. Reality is more complicated than that. Your children are responsible for their own lives. Your job as a parent is to prepare them as best you can for what lays ahead. But they make their own choices, they have their own genetic dispositions, some are shy, some are bold, some are leaders, some are followers... You cannot change who they are. What you can do is help them direct their strengths and weaknesses in a good direction. For most of us that phrase "good direction" would include getting on the path of repentance, baptism, forgiveness through Christ, and hope of resurrection unto eternal life. But their entrance into that path is not in you hands... that is God's domain. Leave it to Him. Focus on doing the best possible job you can fulfilling your responsibility toward you children. This will be pleasing to God. Read this message on our blog: 👉 https://ucgraleigh.blogspot.com/2022/02/what-parents-owe-to-their-children-flip.html Photos by Unknown author is licensed under CC BY-NC.​ https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/3.0/

Be perfect as your Father is perfect - according to the definitions and meanings of English words a call to perfection is obviously an impossible task. It’s a weakness of our desire to have a word for word translation of scripture rather than to discern the concept. The original word doesn’t necessarily mean perfection as we mean perfection today. Dig in with a word study here and you see that the concept/idea Jesus is voicing here is to become complete, mature, tempered and tested, well developed for the purpose you were designed for… which is to become like God… a creation in His own image and likeness… as it has been from the very beginning. Paul fleshes out the idea well in Ephesians 4:13-16. Putting on the mind of God, developing the character of God means having the commandments of God written on your heart, to become your way of thinking, your motive, and your actions. So… 1️⃣ Know the commands of God 2️⃣ Discern the spirit behind them 3️⃣ Practice them in a way that conforms to the spirit This is a clip from a more in-depth message about the Sermon on the Mount which you can access here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Upriwyzq6CM Hit the LIKE button 👍 to help more people see this message QUESTION -- Have a question about This Message... Other Bible Questions... or Anything Else? Post in comments section of this video! -----Locate a UCG meeting near you------ ➤ http://ucg.org/congregations/ 🎪 Find our podcast here: https://open.spotify.com/show/3BrkjwU3izZEBsmtx60swZ?si=a39330c58384413c