Build up in Christ

Send us Fan MailRethinking Church: Keeping Unity in ConflictCo-Host: Pastor Henry Rick VerdejoRepensando la Iglesia: Mantener la unidad en el conflictoText: Philippians 1:12-14; Genesis 50:20; Romans 8:28-29; 1 Peter 4:12-16; James 4:1-3Topic: Growth, ConflictBig Idea of the Message: The stories and testimonies of our courage in obeying God can inspire and challenge others to be bolder themselves.  God often uses adversity/challenges and church conflict not to stop the work, but to advance the gospel and encourage His people. Las historias y testimonios de nuestra valentía al obedecer a Dios pueden inspirar y desafiar a otros a ser más audaces. Dios a menudo usa la adversidad/desafíos y los conflictos de la iglesia no para detener la obra, sino para hacer avanzar el evangelio y animar a su pueblo. Support the showhttps://linktr.ee/thresholdchurchchrist

Send us Fan MailRethinking the Church – One Body, Many PartsThis is an episode that was live-streamed on our church (Threshold Church of Christ) youtube channel.Repensando la Iglesia: un solo cuerpo, muchas partesBig Idea :The local church is not a religious event you attend but a living body you belong to; when every member is connected and engaged, the whole body grows healthy and strong.La gran idea: La iglesia local no es un evento religioso al que asistes, sino un cuerpo vivo al que perteneces; cuando cada miembro está conectado y comprometido, todo el cuerpo crece sano y fuerte. Support the showhttps://linktr.ee/thresholdchurchchrist

Send us Fan MailVerses: Genesis 1:31; Psalm 23:6; Galatians 5:19-23; Acts 2:42-47; Ephesians 4:17-24Main Idea:  We have a cultural problem in the church that results in patterns of abuse, repeated again and again in different locations, traditions and church contexts. Culture change is difficult and requires intentionality.  We need to learn how to keep these devastating events from repeating themselves in other churches and ministries.  What is in the “soil” determines the health of the fruit; soil contaminated by the flesh produces poisonous fruit, while soil renewed by the Spirit produces Spirit-shaped people (Galatians 5:19–23). Support the showhttps://linktr.ee/thresholdchurchchrist

Send us Fan MailText: Ephesians 4:25–32; Colossians 3:10; Exodus 34:5-6; Psalm 103:8; Romans 12:14-15; Matthew 9:35-36; Luke 10:33-34Topic(s): Anger, Conflict, Restoration, EmpathyBig Idea of the Message: Anger is normal; what we do with it can be restorative or it can be destructive.Application Point: When confronting or being confronted, the believer needs to accept and acknowledge truth, while putting off the auto-response to win, be defensive, use force, or get back at someone. In our anger, we must not sin. Support the showhttps://linktr.ee/thresholdchurchchrist

Send us Fan MailRecently, President Trump of the United States of America, publicly expressed uncertainty about whether he will go to heaven, reflecting a misunderstanding common to many: that salvation is based partly on one’s good works or life achievements rather than wholly on grace through faith.we wanted to share an episode  that clarified what it means to be Saved in Christ. Salvation (or soteriology) according to the Bible is the doctrine of how God rescues and redeems sinners through Jesus Christ. It centers on God’s grace in forgiving sins, justifying believers by faith, and granting eternal life.  Support the showhttps://linktr.ee/thresholdchurchchrist

Send us Fan MailThis sermon helps us see John 3:16 in the light of the Trinity, so that we can fully appreciate the true nature of God’s self-giving through his Son. We will consider the benefit of acknowledging the entire Trinity in all our circumstances.It is difficult to determine precisely how often John 3:16 is quoted around the world, but it is widely recognized as one of the most quoted, memorized, and beloved Bible verses. Its prominence in Christian preaching, teaching, evangelism, and media makes it central to the global proclamation of the Gospel.Text:  John 3:13-18; John 1:51; John 14:3-7; Eze 18:31-32; Romans 8:3-4; Acts 4:12 Support the showhttps://linktr.ee/thresholdchurchchrist

Send us Fan MailBig Idea of the Message: Paul emphasizes that we have a part to play in our ongoing transformation. While the transforming comes through the work of the Holy Spirit, we must be available and willing participants for the work to take root.Application Point: We must actively listen to the guidance of the Holy Spirit—both in our own lives and through the lives of others—to ensure that the change God desires for us is realized in us as we grow in Christ.Regeneration:  is the divine action by which God renews the fallen creation so that it reflects his character. Also: Born Again.  Text: Philippians 2:11–13; 2 Corinthians 7:10-11; Ezekiel 36:25-26; Ephesians 2:4-5; Romans 12:1–2; Support the showhttps://linktr.ee/thresholdchurchchrist

Send us Fan MailText: Hebrews 10:23-29; Hebrews 10:35-36; Hebrews 11:1-6; Hebrews 12:1–13; Hebrews 12:18-29Topics: Destination, Goal, MotivationBig Idea of the Message: Never lose sight of the destination: Jesus.Application Point: Losing sight of your goal can make it harder to accomplish. What is the goal of your faith?There are 3 groups of Christians addressed in the book of Hebrews:1.    Wavering: those who received Jesus as Savior but who are uninvolved & doing bare minimal in their commitment. The writer encourages them out the spiritual couch potato to press on! (Heb 10:23-24)2.    Group in Danger: 2nd & 3rd Gen Christians who have grown up in church. They can shoot off bible verses & say the right words, but never made their parents faith their own. Its possible to know a lot about the bible & just go through the motions of the Christian experience & still not have real Faith in Jesus. (Heb 10:26-29)3.    Those that are tired: People fully committed to Christ, but tired & discouraged. To them the book of Hebrews brings encouragement & refreshment. (Heb 10:35-36) Support the showhttps://linktr.ee/thresholdchurchchrist

Send us Fan MailBig Idea of the Series: Deciding to follow Jesus (or to recommit your life to him) is like a journey. This series starts off the new year by looking at the important elements of a successful journey and then applies that to our walk with Christ.Text: Matthew 28:19–20; Luke 14:25–33; Matthew 10:36-38; Matthew 7:15-16 Topics: Discipleship, PreparationBig Idea of the Message: Following Jesus requires intention/purpose.Application Point: You plan for a vacation; what is your plan for following Jesus?https://linktr.ee/thresholdchurchchrist Support the showhttps://linktr.ee/thresholdchurchchrist

Send us Fan MailText: 1 Corinthians 5:1–13; Roman 14:10-13; Matthew 7:1–6Believers are charged with encouraging and holding each other accountable when we are struggling with sin in our lives, but we are called to do so without burdening each other with ungodly judgment and shame.Application Point: When we judge others, we elevate ourselves as morally superior, which often stems from false humility and pride. When we hold each other accountable, we recognize that we are all sinners in need of God’s mercy and grace.https://linktr.ee/thresholdchurchchristSupport the showhttps://linktr.ee/thresholdchurchchrist

Send us Fan MailThe belief that God wants all believers to be healthy, wealthy, and comfortable is an extrabiblical belief that is contradicted by the Scriptures. We are not promised that our lives will be free of suffering in this life. However, we are promised that we will not face pain or suffering on our own.Application Point: Our ever-shifting circumstances are not in themselves proof of God’s love or disappointment. Rather, they are an opportunity to look for him in every season of life, giving thanks for every blessing both big and small, and trusting that he will safely guide us through every high and low point we experience.Recommended reading:Urban Apologetics: Cults and Cultural Ideologies.  by Dr. Eric MasonGod, Greed, and the (Prosperity) Gospel by Costi HinnSupport the showhttps://linktr.ee/thresholdchurchchrist

Send us Fan MailTopics: Discipline, HolinessBig Idea of the Message: The desires of the flesh are directly opposed to the desires of the Spirit.Application Point: We cannot do what our flesh wants and also serve the Spirit; we must choose which we will elevate. Galatians 5:16-26, 6:7-8; Romans 6:12-13, 8:18-19"Discipline, for the Christian, begins with the body. We have only one. It is this body that is the primary material given to us for sacrifice. We cannot give our hearts to God & keep our bodies for ourselves." - Elisabeth Elliothttps://linktr.ee/thresholdchurchchristSupport the showhttps://linktr.ee/thresholdchurchchrist

Send us Fan MailText: 2 Cor 5:17-18; 2 Samuel 11; 2 Samuel 12:1-15; Psalm 51Topic: Repentance, living in your newnessBig Idea of the Message: When you slip up, repent and ask God to help you; don’t use it as an excuse to give into more sin. The new life of devotion to Christ means one has new attitudes and actions. Why do most New Year resolutions fail? Usually, we slip up once and then use that mistake as an excuse to slip up again and again. In our journey to become more like Christ, we can fall down. When that happens, it’s important to repent—not give up.Support the showhttps://linktr.ee/thresholdchurchchrist

Send us Fan MailFriendship is a mutual relationship characterized by intimacy, faithfulness, trust, unmotivated kindness, and service. The concept can describe one’s relationship with people and with God.Obviously, we are affected most by those to whom we are closest. It is why there is such a heavy emphasis by Solomon on choosing close friends carefully & when you find some great ones---sticking together for the long haul.Support the showhttps://linktr.ee/thresholdchurchchrist

Send us Fan MailAs the United States of America celebrates Independence Day on July 4, it’s worth noting the nation was founded upon the idea that God created human beings to be free. The Declaration of Independence states that people “are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”But what is “liberty,” exactly? Is freedom based upon the country where you live, or can it have a deeper meaning?We as believers have to look at the word freedom thru a Kingdom lens.Mientras los Estados Unidos de América celebran el Día de la Independencia el 4 de julio, vale la pena señalar que la nación se fundó sobre la idea de que Dios creó a los seres humanos para que fueran libres. La Declaración de Independencia establece que las personas “son dotadas por su Creador de ciertos derechos inalienables, entre los que se encuentran la vida, la libertad y la búsqueda de la felicidad”.Pero, ¿qué es "libertad", exactamente? ¿La libertad se basa en el país donde vives o puede tener un significado más profundo?Nosotros, como creyentes, tenemos que mirar la palabra libertad a través de los lentes del Reino de Dios.Support the showhttps://linktr.ee/thresholdchurchchrist

Send us Fan MailThe church that does not operate under the biblical theology of worship is in danger of failing to give God glory and failing to offer worship that is pleasing to Him.  Contrary to popular belief, worship does not begin and end with the singing portion of our church services. Worship is also not limited to bowing in reverence before God. To begin with, worship is determined by God Himself.Recommended reading: Life Together by BonhoefferI will by RainerSupport the showhttps://linktr.ee/thresholdchurchchrist

Send us Fan MailNo church is perfect. It’s full of imperfect people who come together for a common goal: to love Jesus and to talk about Him to those who don’t know Him. The Church is the body of Christ and, as such, is charged to carry out His work in the world. Before Jesus ascended back into heaven, He gave the disciples the Great Commission: "Go therefore and make disciples(reproduce) of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age(Jesus' 2nd coming)" (Matthew 28:19-20).  A healthy local church will be actively fulfilling the Great Commission, and the Bible provides specific guidelines of what the signs of a healthy church are. 2 practical tests to apply to all teaching:1.    Test of faith: does it come from God, being in agreement with apostolic doctrine, or is it a product of human imagination?2.    The test of love: does it promote unity in the body of ChristRecommended Reading:Church Called Tov By Scot McKnight  life together by Dietrich BonhoefferSupport the showhttps://linktr.ee/thresholdchurchchrist

Send us Fan MailGod bless everyone & welcome to Build up in Christ Podcast. This episode will be broadcast in Spanish. I have been asked to upload an episode in Spanish & I am curious to see if there is any interest out there for any Spanish episodes. I have had listeners from Latin American countries listen to the English episodes. So, let’s see how well a Spanish episode is received.The panel of speakers: Pastor Gene Diaz, Pastor Henry "Rick" Verdejo, Pastor Darby Paris Dios bendiga a todos y bienvenidos a Edificar en Cristo Podcast. Este episodio será transmitido en español. Me han pedido que suba un episodio en español y tengo curiosidad por ver si hay algún interés por algún episodio en español. He tenido oyentes de países latinoamericanos escuchando los episodios en inglés. Entonces, veamos qué tan bien se recibe un episodio en español.panel de oradores: Pastor Gene Diaz, Pastor Henry "Rick" Verdejo, Pastor Darby ParisEn el contexto sombrío de nuestro mundo actual, Efesios 2:1-10 se destaca con una relevancia sorprendente. Pablo primero se adentra en las profundidades de la desconfianza hacia el hombre y luego se eleva a las alturas del optimismo sobre Dios. Lo que hace Pablo en estos pasajes es pintar un vívido contraste entre lo que el hombre es por naturaleza y lo que podemos llegar a ser por gracia!Support the showhttps://linktr.ee/thresholdchurchchrist

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I discuss Spiritual growth in Christ.Becoming more like Christ is the desire of every believer, and it is encouraging to know that God has the same desire for us. In fact, the Bible says that God “predestined [believers] to be conformed to the likeness of his Son” (Romans 8:29). Making us Christlike is God’s work, and He will see it through to the end (Philippians 1:6).Key Vs: Philippians 1:5-6Suggested reading: So you want to be like Christ by Charles SwindollRose Guide to DiscipleshipThe most significant teachings in the Bible by Christopher D Hudson77 FAQs about God and the Bible by Josh McDowell & Sean McDowellSupport the showhttps://linktr.ee/thresholdchurchchrist

Send us Fan MailIn this episode Brother, Jason Mitchell Weber is with us, AKA Mitch. We are discussing What is the meaning behind the word Church, and the need for the church & fellowship.Key verses:Matthew 16:18 & Genesis 28:3Recommended reading: The Body: being light in the darkness by Charles Colson, Life Together by Dietrich BonhoefferWise Quotes:“Let him who is not in the community beware of being alone. Into the community you were called-the call was not meant for you alone; in the community of the called you bear your cross, you struggle, you pray. You are not alone even in death and on the last Day, you will be only one of the great congregation of Jesus Christ.-Dietrich Bonhoffer, Life Together“Healthy spiritual growth requires the presence of the other—the brother, the sister, the pastor, the teacher. A private, proudly isolated life cannot grow. The two or three who gather together in Christ’s name keep each other sane. Spiritual growth cannot take place in isolation. It is not a private thing.”--Eugene PetersonSupport the showhttps://linktr.ee/thresholdchurchchrist

Send us Fan MailA biblical worldview (or a Christian worldview) is a worldview based on God's unchanging Word. Since God is the Creator of everything in heaven and earth, He is the standard for truth. God is all-powerful, all-knowing, and unchanging. The Bible contains the words of God, and God is Truth.In broad terms, a worldview that is Christian examines cultural data and locates them within a pattern of belief that is consistent with the sacred text of Scripture, but also with the broader Christian intellectual tradition.Key verse: Romans 12:1-3Recommended reading: Faithfully Different by Natasha CrainBaker Compact Dictionary of Theological TermsSupport the showhttps://linktr.ee/thresholdchurchchrist

Send us Fan MailAdvent symbolizes the present situation of the church in these “last days” (Acts 2:17), as God’s people wait for the return of Christ in glory to consummate his eternal kingdom. The church is in a similar situation to Israel at the end of the Old Testament: in exile, waiting and hoping in prayerful expectation for the coming of the Messiah. The return of Jesus Christ is a vital part of God’s redemptive plan for humanity. That’s why the event was foretold by prophets, proclaimed by angels, and taught by Jesus and the apostles. In fact, more Old Testament passages are devoted to Christ’s second coming than to His first. And in the New Testament, the Lord mentions His return more frequently than He speaks of His death. The second coming defeats Satan’s earthly reign and establishes Christ’s kingdom of peace and righteousness in its place. Revelation 19:11-21, 20:1-6, Acts 2:14-21Support the showhttps://linktr.ee/thresholdchurchchrist

Send us Fan MailThis Episode is part of the Church Hurt episode. When we are hurt in a church, we should not stop fellowshipping. We should go into prayer, and seek discernment & Godly counsel before making a decision to leave a church. Most importantly, if we decide to leave we should seek another Christ-centered church to fellowship in.Verses mentioned:Acts 2:42, 1 Thessalonians 5:9-12, James 1:26-27, 1 Corinthians 12:12-27, 1 Corinthians 1:10-12 & Ephesians 4:11-14.Recommended reading:Church Called Tov: Forming a Goodness Culture that Resists abuses of power by Scot McKnight and Laura BarringerSupport the showhttps://linktr.ee/thresholdchurchchrist

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I discuss Spiritual Disciplines. Spiritual Disciplines are practices we do regularly that can help us change with the power and grace of the Holy Spirit, our sinful habits and make us more like Christ, and connect us closer to God.Biblical Spiritual Disciplines are for:The spiritual maturity of each believer and the community as a whole.The realization of the fruit of the spirit in one's life.Dependence on God and interdependence with other believers in Christ.Recommended Reading:Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life by Donald S. WhitneyCelebration of Discipline: The Path to Spiritual Growth by Richard J. FosterHow to read the Bible for all its worth By Gordon D. Fee & Douglas StuartThe most Significant Teachings in the Bible by Christopher D. HudsonRose Guide to DiscipleshipRose book of Bible Charts vol 1,2 &3What the Bible is all about by Dr. Henrietta C. Mears500 Questions & Answers from the Bible by Mark FacklerSo you want to be like Christ by Charles R SwindollThe revolutionary Disciple by Jim Putman & Chad HarringtonSupport the showhttps://linktr.ee/thresholdchurchchrist

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we discuss Discipleship with Pastor Gary Buon & brother Mitch Weber. We discuss how we came to love disciplining people for Christ.Key Verse Matthew 28:16-20We must know Christ, grow in Christ, serve in Christ, to share Christ!What is a Disciple? A disciple is a person who follows Jesus, knows Jesus & His teaching; to grow more like Jesus, and goes for Jesus, serving others and making new disciples.Support the showhttps://linktr.ee/thresholdchurchchrist

Send us Fan MailGod bless, in this episode I discuss tools we can use to keep our eyes on God & be Christ centered in our mindset during difficult times. We look at the following verses in The Holy Bible: 2 Chronicles 20:1-4, 20:35, 33, Hebrews 12:2-3, Philippians 4:6-7, 1 Thessalonians 5:17-18, Romans 8:28 & Luke 22:42.Support the showhttps://linktr.ee/thresholdchurchchrist

Send us Fan MailGod Bless & welcome to Season 2 of Build up in Christ. In this episode we discuss setting Godly goals/resolutions as well as keeping our eyes on things above/heaven. In order to control our thoughts & emotions. Key verse is found in 2 Corinthians 5:17. Cross verses are 2 Corinthians 3:18,  Colossians 2:6-7, Colossians3:1-14 & Philippians 3:12-14.Support the showhttps://linktr.ee/thresholdchurchchrist

Send us Fan MailIn this episode we are discussing Church Discipline with Pastor Sam Colon (Circle of Christ Church). Which is the process of correcting sinful behavior among members of a local church body for the purpose of protecting the church, restoring the sinner to a right walk with God, and renewing fellowship among the church members. Key verse is found in Mt 18:15-20 . There are 3 steps to Church Discipline. In this episode we cover 2.1.    Step 1 Vs15: to approach the offender in private would avoid bringing shame on that person. It also would minimize the opportunity for misunderstanding & gossip.2.    Step 2 Vs 16:Witnesses. This step emphasizes the importance of the issue at hand & provides the wisdom of others. They are there to witness as well help resolve issue.3.    Step 3 Vs 17: The Church. The Greek word here is ekklesia, which means “assembly”. It appears in other NT writings in ref to the corporate body of all believers (body of Christ) Acts 9:31. Support the showhttps://linktr.ee/thresholdchurchchrist

Send us Fan MailIn this episode Pastor Sam Colon (Circle of Christ Church) and I discuss the topic Church hurt. How it occurs, how as individuals we can prevent causing hurt to someone & how to deal with church hurt. Key verse : Philippians 1:27. Support the showhttps://linktr.ee/thresholdchurchchrist

Send us Fan MailPart of ongoing series that will invite Pastors to a conversation. Discussing varies state of affairs in the world of believers in Christ. This episode we have Pastor Rev. Samuel Colon from Circle of Christ Church (https://www.circleofchristchurch.com/) located in Coop City in Bronx NY. Discussing the difficulty's of pasturing during a pandemic.Support the showhttps://linktr.ee/thresholdchurchchrist

Send us Fan MailIn this episode we have special guest: Elizabeth Zaiter & Mary Coronel. Discussing examples in God's Holy Word of people who had chronic pain. As well discussing personal testimony on our personal challenges with dealing with chronic pain. How God encourages us & how we continue walking in Christ. Hardships are temporary & easier to bear when we put in perspective eternity & heaven. God uses hardships to display His strength in weakness.Verses discussed: Psalms 103:14, Isaiah 29:16, Psalm 139:13-15, Matthew 5:16 & Revelation 21:4.Support the showhttps://linktr.ee/thresholdchurchchrist

Send us Fan MailIn this episode I discuss how believers should & can make a difference in their community.Key verse Matt 5:16, 9:8, 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12 & Leviticus 19:32-34.Support the showhttps://linktr.ee/thresholdchurchchrist

Send us Fan MailThis episode covers how to be a leader. Using the key verse Titus 1:5-9 which describes the qualities of a leader. This episode also touches on John Maxwell's 5 Levels of Leadership.Support the showhttps://linktr.ee/thresholdchurchchrist

Send us Fan MailIn this episode I discuss examples of people with integrity in the Holy Word. As well how to maintain our integrity. Key verse Hebrews 4:14, Colossians 3:17 and Job 1:1.Support the showhttps://linktr.ee/thresholdchurchchrist

Send us Fan MailIn this episode we discuss how to find peace in God. How as believer's in Christ we walk by faith not by sight. Keeping in mind , we have Victory in Jesus. We look at the following bible verses Heb 11:1, 6:1, 10:25, Philippians 3:13, Job 19:25-27, Romans 5:1-2 & James 2:18Support the showhttps://linktr.ee/thresholdchurchchrist

Send us Fan MailThis episode is about how to deal with anxiety in the Lord. featuring bible verses 1 Peter 5:7, Matthew 6:25-27 Psalms 37:7-8 & Phil 4:4-7Support the showhttps://linktr.ee/thresholdchurchchrist

Send us Fan MailThis episode is all about how to be salt & light in the world. Based on bible verse Matthew 5:13-16Support the showhttps://linktr.ee/thresholdchurchchrist