Discipleship stands as a profound and pivotal theme within the Christian faith, underscoring the imperative of committing oneself to the teachings and example of Jesus Christ. In our discourse today, we elucidate the essence of discipleship, commencing with a thorough examination of the Great Commission articulated in Matthew 28. It is through this directive that we comprehend the critical responsibility entrusted to us: to make disciples of all nations, thereby perpetuating the transformative message of Christ. This episode aims to delve into the fundamental question of what it truly means to be a disciple, emphasizing the necessity of personal commitment to Christ's teachings as a precursor to cultivating disciples within the church community. As we navigate this vital topic, we invite listeners to reflect upon their own discipleship journey and consider how they can embody and impart the teachings of Jesus in their lives.

Takeaways:

• Discipleship is fundamentally about committing oneself to follow Jesus and His teachings diligently.
• The Great Commission serves as a crucial directive for making disciples within the church community.
• A disciple is defined as a follower and learner of Christ, embodying His principles in daily life.
• True discipleship requires both the power of God and a sincere commitment to His Word.
• A critical aspect of discipleship is the willingness to deny oneself and prioritize Christ above all else.
• To effectively make disciples, we must first examine our own commitment to following Jesus.

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This podcast is produced by Ralph Estep, Jr., host of the Ask Ralph Podcast, a daily podcast on Christian Finance you can find it at https://www.askralphpodcast.com/

The Easter Sunday Service at Middletown Baptist Church, led by Pastor Josh Massaro, serves as a profound exploration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ and its implications for believers. The sermon begins with a declaration of the significance of the resurrection, emphasizing that it is not merely a historical event but a transformative occurrence that provides hope and assurance to the faithful. Pastor Massaro draws on the teachings found in First Corinthians, particularly chapter 15, to articulate the results of the resurrection, which include conversion, change, confidence, comfort, and a challenge to believers.

At the heart of Pastor Massaro's message lies the assertion that the resurrection is foundational to the Christian faith, as it assures believers of their salvation and eternal life. He expounds on the necessity of faith in the resurrection as the means by which individuals are transformed and granted new life in Christ. This transformation is characterized by a departure from sin and a new identity as children of God, free from condemnation. The pastor’s eloquent exposition serves to remind the congregation of the immense love of Christ, who willingly sacrificed himself and triumphed over death.

The sermon further challenges the congregation to reflect on their own faith and the imperative to share the gospel with others. Pastor Massaro emphasizes that the implications of the resurrection extend beyond personal salvation; they call believers to actively engage in the mission of the church. The message culminates in a powerful invitation to respond to the call of Christ, reinforcing the notion that the resurrection is not just a doctrine to be celebrated but a dynamic force that should inspire action and witness in the world. Thus, this Easter Sunday Service encapsulates a rich theological reflection on the resurrection and its enduring significance for the life of the church and the individual believer.

Takeaways:

• The resurrection of Jesus Christ is not merely a historical event but a profound declaration of God's power over death, offering believers hope for eternal life beyond this world.
• Through the resurrection, we are granted the gift of salvation, which is not contingent upon our works but is a result of God's grace and faith in Jesus Christ.
• The transformation that occurs in believers is a fundamental result of the resurrection, enabling us to live as new creations through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.
• The resurrection instills in us a confidence that transcends earthly challenges, as we are assured of our eternal security in Christ and the promise of life after death.
• We are called to share the message of the resurrection with others, fulfilling the Great Commission by proclaiming the good news of Jesus Christ to all nations.
• Ultimately, the resurrection serves as both a comfort in times of sorrow and a challenge to live out our faith actively, reflecting the love and grace we have received.

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This podcast is produced by Ralph Estep, Jr., host of the Ask Ralph Podcast, a daily podcast on Christian Finance you can find it at https://www.askralphpodcast.com/

The Easter Sunrise Service at Middletown Baptist Church, presided over by Pastor Josh Massaro, provides a profound exploration of the significance of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. This service, held on April 20, 2025, serves as a poignant reminder of the hope and victory that the empty tomb symbolizes for Christians around the world. Pastor Massaro opens the service with a warm welcome, encouraging the congregation to embrace the transformative power of the resurrection in their lives. He reflects on the historical context of the resurrection, drawing from the Gospel of Luke to illustrate the moment when the disciples discovered the empty tomb. The narrative emphasizes the bewilderment and fear of the initial witnesses, juxtaposed with the joyous revelation of Jesus' victory over death. Through scripture, Pastor Massaro articulates the essential message of hope, asserting that the resurrection signifies not only Christ's triumph but also the promise of everlasting life for believers.

As the service unfolds, Pastor Massaro delves deeper into the implications of the resurrection for modern believers. He articulates a powerful message about how the resurrection empowers Christians to overcome fear and doubt, urging the congregation to trust in God's promises. The theme of hope resonates throughout the sermon, as he encourages attendees to reflect on their personal relationship with Christ and the peace that can be found in Him. The pastor’s eloquent exposition of scripture serves to reinforce the message that faith in the risen Christ is the cornerstone of Christian belief and provides the ultimate assurance of salvation. The service culminates in a heartfelt invitation for individuals to embrace this hope, reinforcing the centrality of the resurrection in the life of every believer.

Takeaways:

• The significance of Easter lies in the profound realization that the empty tomb symbolizes our hope, confidence, and victory as Christians, marking a pivotal point in our faith journey.
• The Easter Sunrise Service at Middletown Baptist Church serves as a reminder of the everlasting life promised to believers through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, which is celebrated annually.
• Pastor Josh Massaro emphasizes the importance of remembering and reflecting on the resurrection of Jesus, which not only instills hope but also calls for active participation in sharing the gospel with others.
• The power of God, demonstrated through the resurrection, is the same divine strength that believers can rely on in their daily lives, providing encouragement to overcome personal struggles and fears.
• The experience of the women at the tomb illustrates the transformative power of encountering the risen Christ, prompting them to share the good news with the disciples and emphasizing the call to evangelism in the Christian faith.
• As followers of Christ, we are called to not only acknowledge the resurrection but also to embody its significance in our lives by living out the principles of love, service, and sharing the gospel with the world.

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This podcast is produced by Ralph Estep, Jr., host of the Ask Ralph Podcast, a daily podcast on Christian Finance you can find it at https://www.askralphpodcast.com/

The Good Friday Service at Middletown Baptist Church, presided over by Pastor Josh Massaro, offers an in-depth theological examination of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, emphasizing its monumental implications for the Christian faith. Pastor Massaro begins by addressing the cross, an emblem often misconstrued in contemporary society as a mere decoration, yet fundamentally symbolizes suffering and death. He articulates that the cross was not merely an instrument of execution but a profound declaration of God's love and justice, wherein Jesus bore the sins of humanity. Drawing from the epistle to the Hebrews, the pastor elucidates the contrast between the repetitive sacrifices of the Old Testament and the singular, all-encompassing sacrifice of Christ, which provides believers with complete redemption and reconciliation with God.

The sermon intricately weaves the seven sayings of Jesus during his crucifixion, particularly focusing on his anguished cry, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” This poignant moment encapsulates the depth of Jesus' suffering and his profound identification with human anguish. Pastor Massaro explores the theological significance of this cry, representing not only physical torment but also the spiritual desolation Jesus experienced as he bore the weight of humanity's sin. Furthermore, the pastor reflects on Jesus' expressions of compassion and forgiveness, notably in his prayer for his executioners and his promise of salvation to the repentant thief. This serves as a powerful reminder of the grace that is available to all, regardless of their past transgressions.

As the service progresses, Pastor Massaro concludes with a compelling invitation for attendees to recognize the sufficiency of Christ's sacrifice in their lives. He emphasizes that Jesus’ declaration, “It is finished,” signifies the completion of his redemptive work, assuring believers that their sins are forgiven and their debt paid in full. This proclamation extends beyond the historical event of the crucifixion, calling individuals to trust in Jesus for every aspect of their lives, including their struggles and uncertainties. The Good Friday Service thus becomes a transformative experience, encouraging believers to embrace the hope of resurrection and the assurance of salvation found in Jesus Christ, culminating in a powerful affirmation of faith and reliance on God’s grace.

Takeaways:

• The cross, as emphasized in this episode, serves not merely as a symbol but signifies the profound sacrifice of Jesus Christ for humanity's sins, underscoring the need for a deep understanding of its implications.
• Pastor Josh articulates the significance of the sacrifice of Jesus in relation to the Old Testament sacrificial system, highlighting that unlike the repetitive sacrifices of animals, Christ's offering was once for all and fully sufficient for salvation.
• In reflecting upon the seven sayings of Jesus on the cross, we gain insight into His compassionate nature, particularly His prayer for forgiveness for those who crucified Him, illustrating the depth of His love even in suffering.
• The podcast elucidates that true salvation is rooted in faith alone, as exemplified by the thief on the cross, who, despite a life of sin, was assured of paradise through his belief in Jesus.
• Pastor Josh encourages believers to trust in the sufficiency of Christ for all aspects of life, reminding us that reliance on Jesus is essential for both spiritual and practical matters.
• The concluding message of the episode emphasizes the empty tomb and the resurrection, reinforcing that through faith in Jesus, believers can have confidence in eternal life and the fulfillment of God's promises.

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The Wednesday Evening Service at Middletown Baptist Church on April 16, 2025, led by Pastor Josh Massaro, delves into the profound and often troubling questions surrounding divine sovereignty and human suffering. Pastor Massaro introduces the series by addressing the pivotal inquiry: why does God allow suffering, particularly to those deemed innocent? He acknowledges that many congregants grapple with the implications of such suffering, which challenges their faith and understanding of a benevolent deity. Throughout the discourse, he emphasizes the importance of knowing God's character, asserting that while answers may be elusive, God’s inherent goodness and love are unwavering truths that believers can hold onto in times of distress. The pastor articulates that the struggle to reconcile suffering with faith is a common human experience and encourages parishioners to approach God with their doubts and questions, framing this as an act of trust rather than rebellion. He proposes that understanding God’s transcendent nature and His eternal purposes provides believers with a foundation for faith during turbulent times, guiding them toward spiritual resilience and peace.

Takeaways:

• In this episode, we delve into the nature of suffering and the theological questions that arise from it, specifically addressing why God allows bad things to happen to good people.
• Pastor Josh emphasizes the importance of understanding God's character as inherently good, which can provide comfort even amidst painful circumstances in our lives.
• We explore the biblical context for questioning God, asserting that it is permissible to seek understanding while maintaining reverence for His sovereignty.
• The discussion includes insights from Psalm 13, illustrating how lament can be a vital aspect of our relationship with God during times of confusion and pain.

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This podcast is produced by Ralph Estep, Jr., host of the Ask Ralph Podcast, a daily podcast on Christian Finance you can find it at https://www.askralphpodcast.com/

Engaging in a profound exploration of the term 'resurrection', the podcast elucidates its paramount significance within the context of Christian belief, particularly as it pertains to the Easter celebration—referred to as Resurrection Weekend at Middletown Baptist Church. Pastor Josh Massaro articulates the essence of resurrection, emphasizing not merely the event itself but the transformative power it embodies for believers. The discourse begins by delineating the narrative of Jesus Christ's crucifixion, where he proclaims, 'It is finished,' signifying the culmination of his sacrificial mission. Through a meticulous examination of scriptural references, Pastor Massaro reinforces the notion that the resurrection is not a mere anecdote but a pivotal event witnessed by over 500 individuals, as documented in the scriptures. This collective witnessing serves as a cornerstone for the credibility of the resurrection narrative, challenging contemporary interpretations that suggest a spiritual resurrection devoid of physical implications.

The conversation progresses to discuss the implications of the resurrection on the believer's life, notably the promise of eternal life and victory over sin and death. Pastor Massaro draws from First John 5:12, asserting that eternal life is intrinsically linked to one's relationship with Jesus Christ, reiterating that salvation is not derived from human efforts but through faith in Christ's redemptive work. The dialogue culminates in a compelling invitation for listeners to embrace the resurrection, not merely as a historical fact but as a living hope that provides assurance amidst life's tribulations. The resurrection is presented as a source of comfort, confidence, and purpose, urging believers to remain steadfast and unmovable in their faith, bolstered by the assurance that their labor in the Lord is never in vain.

Takeaways:

• The resurrection of Jesus Christ is central to Christian faith, signifying victory over death and sin.
• Pastor Josh emphasizes the necessity of acknowledging the bodily resurrection to affirm our eternal life in Christ.
• Easter, referred to as Resurrection Weekend, celebrates the transformative power of Jesus's resurrection for believers.
• The teachings of scripture affirm that through Jesus, we can experience eternal life, not through our works, but through faith in Him.
• First Corinthians 15 highlights that without the resurrection, our faith is in vain and lacks substance and power.
• The resurrection is not merely a historical event, but a foundational truth that provides hope and comfort to believers.

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This podcast is produced by Ralph Estep, Jr., host of the Ask Ralph Podcast, a daily podcast on Christian Finance you can find it at https://www.askralphpodcast.com/

The discourse presented in the Sunday Evening Service at Middletown Baptist Church, delivered by Pastor Josh Massaro, is a profound exploration of the essence of the Church, as delineated in Acts, chapter 20. The Pastor commences the sermon by inviting the congregation to engage with the biblical text, emphasizing that the Church is fundamentally the assembly of believers rather than a mere institution or program. This pivotal concept is reiterated throughout the discussion, wherein the pastor elucidates that the term 'ecclesia', from which the word Church is derived, indicates a gathering of believers unified under Christ. The sermon underscores the necessity of understanding the foundational elements that constitute a true Church, namely, the doctrine of the Apostles, fellowship, the observance of breaking bread, and prayer. The Pastor articulates a clear call to return to these scriptural tenets amidst the encroachment of cultural norms that may obscure or alter the Church's mission.

As the sermon progresses, Pastor Massaro addresses the dynamics of ministry, particularly the importance of encouragement and exhortation within the Church community. He draws from the narrative of the Apostle Paul's ministry, highlighting instances of both struggle and triumph, thereby illustrating the human experience of early Christians. He emphasizes the significance of maintaining a warm and compassionate Church environment, where members can embrace one another and foster spiritual growth collectively. The Pastor further calls upon the congregation to acknowledge their role in the Church's mission of discipleship and evangelism, positing that each member’s active participation is crucial for the Church to function effectively as the body of Christ. Through this lens, the sermon becomes not merely a historical account but a compelling exhortation to embody the principles of the early Church in contemporary practice.

Takeaways:

• The church is defined as the body of believers and not merely a physical building or program, which is essential for understanding its true essence.
• Paul's ministry exemplifies the importance of exhortation within the church, highlighting the necessity of encouraging one another in faith.
• The incident of Eutychus serves as a poignant reminder of God's power to restore life, analogous to the spiritual revival that occurs through salvation.
• Throughout the Book of Acts, we see that the church is an organism led by Christ, and it is imperative that we align our practices with biblical principles rather than cultural norms.
• Exhortation in the church is not just about encouragement but also involves challenging one another to pursue love and good works, fostering a supportive community.
• In our pursuit of spiritual growth, it is crucial to engage with scripture beyond the pulpit, as personal study and fellowship enrich our understanding of God's word.

Thank you for joining our podcast. Visit our website at https://middletownbaptistchurch.org/

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This podcast is produced by Ralph Estep, Jr., host of the Ask Ralph Podcast, a daily podcast on Christian Finance you can find it at https://www.askralphpodcast.com/

The Sunday Morning Service at Middletown Baptist Church, led by Pastor Josh Massaro, centers around the significant biblical event known as Palm Sunday, as delineated in Matthew chapter 21. This occasion marks the triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem, where he publicly proclaims his identity as the Messiah. Pastor Massaro poses an introspective question to the congregation: 'Who is Jesus to you?' This inquiry serves as a foundation for the sermon, prompting attendees to reflect on their personal relationship with Christ. The pastor emphasizes that the recognition of Jesus as the Messiah carries profound eternal implications, urging believers to see beyond the superficial acknowledgment of his existence and instead embrace him as their Savior.

As the sermon unfolds, the pastor recounts the jubilant reception Jesus receives from the crowds, who lay down palm branches and garments in an act of reverence. However, he draws attention to the irony of this celebration, which soon turns to betrayal, as the same voices that acclaim 'Hosanna' will later demand his crucifixion. This duality highlights the misalignment between the people's expectations of a political savior and the spiritual salvation Jesus offers. The pastor elucidates that Jesus came not to overthrow earthly powers, but to conquer sin, thereby addressing the greater bondage that humanity faces.

Through a detailed examination of prophetic fulfillment in Jesus's actions and the responses of the people, Pastor Massaro calls for a genuine acknowledgment of Jesus's identity as the King who offers peace and redemption. He urges the congregation to align their understanding of Jesus with biblical truths, fostering a deeper faith that transcends mere recognition and embraces transformative discipleship. The message culminates in a heartfelt invitation for listeners to recommit their lives to Jesus, acknowledging him as their personal Lord and Savior.

Takeaways:

• The triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday signifies His public declaration as the Messiah, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies.
• The question 'Who is Jesus to you?' is of paramount importance, as it shapes our understanding of faith and salvation.
• Many individuals recognized Jesus as a prophet but failed to accept Him as the Messiah, highlighting the common misunderstanding of His mission.
• Jesus's humble entrance on a donkey symbolizes His role as a peaceful Savior, contrasting with the people's expectation of a political liberator.
• The significance of Jesus's sacrifice is underscored by His purpose to save humanity from sin, rather than merely fulfilling political aspirations.
• As believers, we are called to recognize Jesus as our Savior and to commit our lives to His teachings and will.

Thank you for joining our podcast. Visit our website at https://middletownbaptistchurch.org/

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This podcast is produced by Ralph Estep, Jr., host of the Ask Ralph Podcast, a daily podcast on Christian Finance you can find it at https://www.askralphpodcast.com/