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

Welcome to another insightful episode of the Connect Podcast with Cole Phillips! In today's episode, we get into Acts 24:22-27, exploring the compelling story of Felix, the Roman governor who knew the truth but tragically chose not to act on it.

Join Cole Phillips as he unpacks the themes of procrastination, self-interest, and the importance of immediate obedience to God's call. Felix’s interactions with the Apostle Paul offer powerful lessons on the consequences of delaying righteous actions and the dangers of allowing self-interest to cloud our judgment.

In this episode, you'll discover:


How Felix's knowledge of "the Way" (Christianity) and his access to Paul's teachings presented him with a unique opportunity for transformation.
The reasons behind Felix's procrastination and its detrimental effects on his spiritual journey.
Practical steps to overcome procrastination and ensure our motives align with God's will.
The critical importance of immediate obedience in our daily walk with Christ.

Whether you're struggling with delayed decisions or seeking to deepen your faith, this episode provides valuable insights and actionable steps to help you live out your faith more effectively.

Tune in to be inspired, challenged, and equipped to make timely, godly decisions in your life. Don't miss this powerful discussion on the Connect Podcast with Cole Phillips!

Listen now on The Connection Church app or wherever you get your podcasts.


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In this episode of the Connect Podcast, we explore Acts 24:1-21, with Paul’s dramatic trial before Governor Felix. Join us as we unpack the accusations brought by the high priest Ananias and his legal counsel Tertullus, and hear Paul’s strong defense of his faith and integrity.

We will examine how Paul, despite facing severe charges of inciting dissension, leading a sect, and attempting to desecrate the temple, remains calm and respectful. His unwavering commitment to the truth, his clear conscience before God and people, and his bold proclamation of the resurrection give us a powerful example for today.

Listen in to discover practical lessons on maintaining integrity, showing respect under pressure, and boldly sharing your faith in challenging circumstances. Whether you’re navigating personal trials or seeking to stand firm in your beliefs, this episode offers valuable insights and encouragement from Paul’s experience. Don’t miss it!


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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."



Subscribe now and stay connected to the Word with the Connect Podcast!


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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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