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The beloved hymn Rock Of Ages by Augustus M. Toplady was published in the late 1700s and came out of England. The hymn itself is still popular and sung worldwide, all these years later. While the hymns is well-known, some of the backstory and context surrounding Mr. Toplady is not. Toplady and evangelist John Wesley had a very public feud over something that is still being debated today: Calvinism vs. Arminianism. Toplady as a Calvinist had strong disagreements with Wesley's views and how much Wesley was influencing the Church of England. Today's podcast goes into this rift between these two men and the beautiful song that was written in the midst of it all: Rock Of Ages.

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Derek's Hymns Playlist On YouTube

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I have said these things to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world. John 16:33

In recent weeks and months, a thread through many news events and stories seems to be violence and hatred against Christians (whether in the US or other parts of the world). This hatred has escalated to a point in which we must not only be aware of it but also prepared to deal with it in practical, Biblical ways. Today's episode dives into some responses we should take as Christians when we encounter hatred. Jesus said we would have trouble (tribulation) in this life. But He has also overcome the world. Our response must be layered with grace and love, while at the same time, rooted in the truth of God's Word.

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Let's talk about it! A quick 15-20 minute episode to jumpstart some thoughts to consider in your day. Life is busy but we want to mindful of the reason God placed us on this earth. One of those reasons is to share our faith in Jesus. Today we want to talk about why this is hard and also identify some ways we can push back against the barriers that keep us from sharing. Is there some commonality here between us (Derek and the audience -- you!)? I hope so! But let's spur one another on and pray for one another to be bold in preaching Christ.

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As we think about sharing the Gospel, are we aware of just how short our time on this earth really is? Is that something that propels us forward to share, knowing that life is short but eternity is forever? This episode reminds us to be ready to share and have a heart that shows Christ's compassion. All the while, we rely on the Holy Spirit's leading and guidance. He will speak as we step out in obedience. May we understand we carry an urgent message. May we proclaim Christ today.

“If by excessive labor, we die before the average age of man, worn out in the Master’s service, then glory be to God, we shall have so much less of earth and so much more of Heaven… It is our duty and our privilege to exhaust our lives for Jesus. We are not to be living specimens of men in fine preservation, but living sacrifices, whose lot is to be consumed.” Charles Spurgeon

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LET'S TALK ABOUT IT! A new recurring series that is meant to be a quick 15-20 minute episode centering on a theme that is relevant to the life of the believer. These are meant to be topical and applicable...in the midst of your busy day and busy week!

Our first episode is a discussion about INTEGRITY. What is the definiton and what does the Bible have to say about it? As Christians, we are called to live private lives that are the same as who we are in public. Shortcuts might be the way the rest of the world operates but they cannot define us. This episode ends with some action steps that we can take; questions to ponder as take in this word and allow it to influence our relationship with Christ.

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When they heard these words, some of the people said, “This really is the Prophet.” Others said, “This is the Christ.” But some said, “Is the Christ to come from Galilee? Has not the Scripture said that the Christ comes from the offspring of David, and comes from Bethlehem, the village where David was?” So there was a division among the people over Him. John 7:40-43

In the Book of John, we see a growing division occurring surrounding Jesus as we come to chapter 7. There are the Pharisees on one hand; bitterly opposed and against any claims that He is the Messiah. There are the adherents to His ministry; His disciples and other followers. But in the middle of both camps there is a third group: those who are in the middle ground and undecided about Jesus. They are compelled by His words. They know there is something about Him. But the naysayers are speaking loudly; trying to drown out Jesus' voice.

As we look at this passage today, we must admit not much has changed in our world. There is still a middle ground group that is somewhere between belief and unbelief, faith and doubt. It is this group we must pray for and minister to. We are at the edge of great revival as many are turning to Jesus right now.

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After this summer's sabbatical and break from AS BOLD AS LIONS content, Derek is back with a new episode taking us into the fall. Into this season, God is saying "It is time to go back to school." This is timely and a reminder that in life, we need God's Word and truth daily. We need to be students of Scripture, approaching it with humility and able to teach others. When we have a love for the Word like David had, we find that it causes us to want to see the truth untarnished and proclaimed boldly. Today, we are going back to school...the Lord's classroom is in session.

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Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for Him; fret not yourself over the one who prospers in his way, over the man who carries out evil devices! Psalm 37:7

What does it look like to "rest expectantly" or to rest with expectation? This episode considers this idea against the backdrop of several verses in Psalm 37. As we come into the summer, we often trade one level of busyness and "over-programming" for a season that moves at the same pace (just with a different look). These months are often perfect times to pull away, to find rest in our Savior, and to quiet ourselves before Him. Sadly, we often don't utilize them as we should. Let this podcast take you into the summer, recognizing your need for more of His presence and less of the world's pace. Find rest and be expectant for what He will do!