Connect: Connecting the Bible to Life with Cole Phillips Cole Phillips

The Plot Against Paul (Acts 23:12-35)



In this gripping episode of the Connect Podcast, we dive into Acts 23:12-35, a dramatic narrative filled with danger, suspense, and divine intervention. Join us as we unravel the story of more than forty conspirators who vow to kill the Apostle Paul and the miraculous way in which their deadly plot is thwarted. Discover how Paul's nephew's bravery, a Roman commander's decisive action, and a midnight military escort ensure Paul's safety and further his mission to spread the Gospel.



Tune in to explore themes of God's protection and providence, and be inspired by the unwavering faith and courage displayed in this passage. Whether you're familiar with the story or hearing it for the first time, this episode promises to deepen your understanding and strengthen your faith.



Keywords

missionaries, danger, protection, opposition, Acts 23, bravery, divine intervention



Takeaways:

The dangers faced by missionaries in spreading the gospel

God's protection and providence in the face of opposition

The bravery of ordinary people and the swift action of leaders in protecting God's servants



Sound Bites:

"The sacrifice is a powerful reminder of the risks that come along hand in hand with living out your faith in a world that is opposed to the gospel of Jesus Christ."

"The odds are nothing when God is in the middle of it. God is enough. He overwhelms all the odds."

"Be attentive, be alert, be courageous and trust in God's protection and in His provision for your own life."



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In this episode of the Connect Podcast, Cole Phillips discusses the importance of standing firm in faith and overcoming obstacles with courage and resilience. He explores the story of Paul in Acts 22-23, highlighting how Paul's Roman citizenship and his trust in God's plan helped him navigate intense pressure and opposition. Phillips emphasizes the need for confidence in God, trust in His control, and courage in the face of challenges. He also shares the example of Ken Wales, a film producer who stood firm in his faith and made the right choices despite facing threats to his career. The episode concludes with a reminder that standing for Jesus has a purpose and is never wasted when we trust in Him.

Keywords

faith, standing firm, obstacles, courage, resilience, Paul, Acts 22-23, Roman citizenship, trust in God, confidence, trust in His control, Ken Wales, film producer, right choices, purpose

Takeaways

Confidence in God, or 'Godfidence,' is a choice we make to trust in His strength and power, even in the face of our own weaknesses.

Trusting in God's control and plan gives us the courage to stand firm in our faith and overcome obstacles.

We can learn from the example of Paul, who faced intense pressure and opposition but remained committed to being a witness for Jesus.

Like Ken Wales, we should be willing to make the right choices and stand firm in our faith, even if it means facing threats or challenges to our careers or reputation.

Standing for Jesus has a purpose and is never wasted when we trust in Him.

Sound Bites

"Godfidence is not trusting in my own strength, my own wisdom, my own abilities. It's trusting in God's strength."

"We know that God is working behind the scenes for our good and you can trust Him for that."

"What our world needs today desperately is people who are living under the control of the Lord so much that we know that what we're going through and that what is happening is something God is using."


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In this episode of the Connect Podcast with Cole Phillips, we will discover the transformative power of your personal testimony through the lens of Acts 22:1–21. Join us as we explore how Paul's courageous sharing of his own story with a hostile crowd gives us a timeless example for today.

Cole unpacks the significance of Paul's approach, beginning with his genuine love and connection with his audience despite facing life-threatening danger. We learn that Paul's deep-rooted love for his people compelled him to share the life-changing message of Jesus, regardless of the risks involved.

Through a detailed breakdown of Paul's testimony, we discover practical steps for crafting and sharing our own stories effectively. From introducing ourselves and describing life before Christ to highlighting the transformation and impact of encountering Jesus, Cole provides valuable insights for every believer.

In addition, we explore the importance of authenticity, simplicity, and relevance in sharing our testimonies, along with the crucial role of prayer and sensitivity to the Holy Spirit's leading. Cole emphasizes the need to know our audience, seize opportunities, and trust God's timing in reaching others with the gospel message.

As the episode concludes, listeners are encouraged to embrace the power of their personal testimonies, boldly share their stories, and trust God to work in the hearts of those who hear. Join us on this journey of discovery as we learn how to share our stories to change lives for eternity.


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Join Pastor Cole Phillips on this week's episode of the Connect Podcast as he dives into Acts 21:17-40 to explore the topic of conflict resolution. Did you know that avoiding crucial conversations in the workplace can cost companies thousands of dollars? In this episode, Pastor Cole examines how conflict arose in the early church and how Paul navigated through it. Discover the importance of seeking unity while embracing diversity, responding with grace and humility, standing firm in truth yet choosing peace, and trusting in God's sovereignty amidst adversity. Learn practical principles for handling conflict in your own life, whether at home, work, or in the church. Tune in to gain insights on promoting peace and reconciliation in your relationships. Don't miss out on this insightful episode that will equip you to navigate conflict with wisdom and grace.


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Join Pastor Cole Phillips in this insightful episode of the Connect Podcast as he explores the theme of trusting God through the trials of life, drawing inspiration from Acts 21:1-16. In this passage, we see Paul set out on a perilous journey to Jerusalem, facing uncertainty, opposition, and the looming threat of imprisonment.



Through Paul's courageous example and unwavering trust in God's providence, Pastor Cole looks into the timeless lessons we can learn for navigating our own storms of life. From facing external challenges to grappling with internal doubts and fears, this episode offers practical wisdom and encouragement for anyone going through a season of trials and tribulations.



As we journey through the narrative of Acts 21:1-16, Pastor Cole shares insights on how to anchor our faith in God's promises, find strength in His presence, and persevere with hope and resilience in the face of adversity. Whether you're facing setbacks, opposition, or uncertainty in your life, this episode will inspire you to lean on God's faithfulness and trust in His perfect plan for your journey.



Tune in to the Connect Podcast and discover how you can navigate life's storms with confidence, knowing that God is with you every step of the way. With practical insights and heartfelt encouragement, Pastor Cole invites listeners to embrace a mindset of trust and surrender, finding peace and strength in God's unfailing love.

Keywords:

trusting God, trials, sacrificial love, following God's call, wise counsel, God's sovereignty

Takeaways:

Follow God's call for your life, even in the face of trials and opposition.

Seek wise counsel from Spirit-filled churches and individuals.

Trust in God's sovereignty and His plan for your life.


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Join Pastor Cole Phillips in this insightful episode of the Connect podcast as he gets into Acts 20:28-38, exploring the life lessons found in this passage. In this episode, Pastor Cole reflects on Paul's farewell address to the leaders of the Ephesian church, drawing out timeless principles of caring and leading.

Through insightful commentary and practical application, Pastor Cole unpacks the importance of shepherding God's flock with decided dedication and integrity. He discusses the challenges faced by church leaders in safeguarding the truth of the gospel and nurturing the faith of believers through adversity and opposition.

Listeners will be inspired by Paul's example of sacrificial love and commitment to the gospel, even in the face of expected persecution. Pastor Cole offers valuable insights into cultivating authentic Christian community and fostering deep spiritual connections in the body of Christ.

Tune in to this enlightening episode of the Connect podcast to gain fresh perspective on Acts 20:28-38 and discover how these ancient truths continue to resonate with relevance and significance in our lives today.

Summary

In this episode, Cole Phillips discusses leadership lessons from Acts chapter 20, verses 28-38. He emphasizes the importance of shepherding the flock, guarding against false teaching, and staying on guard against threats to the faith. He also highlights the need for leaders to lead themselves and be on guard against self-indulgence and greed. Phillips encourages leaders to focus on what is most important and to feed the church with the truth of God's word. He also discusses the importance of humility, sacrificial living, and generosity in leadership.

Keywords

leadership, shepherding, false teaching, faith, self-indulgence, greed, sound doctrine, guarding the flock, humility, sacrificial living, generosity

Takeaways

Leaders must shepherd the flock and guard against false teaching and threats to the faith.

Leaders need to lead themselves and be on guard against self-indulgence and greed.

Leaders should focus on what is most important and feed the church with the truth of God's word.

Humility, sacrificial living, and generosity are essential qualities of effective leadership.

Sound Bites

"The hardest person to lead is yourself."

"Sheep have a tendency to wander, to get lost."

"The church is not the pastor's church. The church is God's church."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Overview

06:37 Leading Yourself and Guarding Against Self-Indulgence

13:51 Humility, Sacrificial Living, and Generosity in Leadership

38:13 Entrusting Each Other to God


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