Scriptures:
Warning: Undefined variable $post in /home/visionro/james122.org/wp-content/plugins/oxygen/component-framework/components/classes/code-block.class.php(133) : eval()'d code on line 1
Warning: Attempt to read property "ID" on null in /home/visionro/james122.org/wp-content/plugins/oxygen/component-framework/components/classes/code-block.class.php(133) : eval()'d code on line 1
Acts 17, Acts 8, Luke 18, Matthew 7:21-23
Episode Handout
Scripture(s):
Acts 17, Acts 8, Luke 18, Matthew 7:21-23
Date:
07/02/2025
Main Theme: This episode delves deeper into the meaning of “in Jesus’ name,” focusing on the difference between sincere misunderstanding and willful lawlessness.
Key Points:
- “In Jesus’ Name” (Continued): The discussion continues from the previous episode, examining how the phrase “in Jesus’ name” can be used casually and even manipulatively. The speakers consider the challenge of responding to such claims, especially when they seem “wacky.”
- Sincerity vs. Truth: The podcast acknowledges that some who claim to act “in Jesus’ name” may be sincere, even praying frequently. However, sincerity alone is not enough, as illustrated by the Pharisee in Luke 18 who prayed self-righteously.
- Importance of Scripture: The speakers emphasize the importance of taking the Bible literally unless it’s clearly symbolic or figurative. They caution against imposing one’s own understanding onto the text rather than deriving meaning from careful reading and discussion with other Christians.
- Matthew 7:21-23: This passage is examined in detail. The speakers focus on Jesus’ condemnation of those who performed seemingly miraculous acts “in his name” but were ultimately labeled “workers of lawlessness” (or iniquity).
- Workers of Lawlessness: The podcast explores the meaning of this term, concluding that it refers to those who are knowingly and willfully living in sin, not simply those who are confused or misinformed.
- Acts 8 and Simon the Sorcerer: A parallel is drawn between the people in Matthew 7 and Simon the Sorcerer, who tried to buy the Holy Spirit for personal gain. Both examples illustrate a heart that is not right before God. Peter’s rebuke of Simon (“You have no part or portion in this matter, for your heart is not right before God”) is highlighted.
- Closing Prayer: The episode concludes with a prayer for guidance, discernment, and steadfastness in God’s Word, asking to be kept from deception and lawlessness. The prayer also references the Bereans in Acts 17, who were commended for examining the Scriptures to verify what they were taught.
Scripture References:
- Luke 18 (The Pharisee and the Tax Collector)
- Matthew 7:21-23
- Acts 8 (Simon the Sorcerer)
- Acts 17 (The Bereans)