• The Fiery Trials of Faith: Embracing Persecution with Joy
    Nov 6 2024

    Rapp Report episode 318

    This podcast episode focuses on the theme of persecution and how Christians should prepare for it, particularly in light of current societal trends in America. Andrew Rappaport delivers a message derived from 1 Peter 4:12-19, emphasizing the inevitability of fiery trials for believers and the importance of not being surprised by such hardships. He highlights the necessity of maintaining a high view of God to endure suffering, drawing parallels to the experiences of persecuted Christians worldwide. The discussion explores the distinction between righteous suffering for Christ's sake and suffering that arises from personal wrongdoing. Rappaport encourages listeners to embrace their faith boldly, even in the face of potential persecution, and to act as ambassadors for Christ, demonstrating love and resilience amidst adversity.

    The episode articulates a compelling message on the inevitable reality of persecution for Christians, as derived from 1 Peter 4:12-19. Andrew Rappaport addresses the listeners with a sense of urgency regarding the current societal shifts that threaten the freedoms enjoyed by the church in America. He posits that the upcoming elections could exacerbate the challenges faced by believers, drawing a stark comparison to the historical persecution faced by early Christians who were often marginalized and targeted for their faith. This backdrop sets the stage for a deeper exploration of what it means to suffer for Christ and how that suffering can be viewed through a lens of joy rather than despair.


    Rappaport dives into the theological implications of suffering, urging believers to embrace their trials as a means of sharing in Christ’s sufferings. He discusses the transformative nature of these experiences, suggesting that they can lead to a greater understanding of God’s glory and grace. The sermon is rich with historical references, recounting stories of martyrs who faced persecution with unwavering faith and courage, illustrating that suffering can indeed be a powerful witness to the truth of the Gospel. Moreover, Rappaport makes a salient point about distinguishing between suffering for righteousness and suffering as a consequence of personal wrongdoing, encouraging self-examination among listeners.


    As the episode progresses, Rappaport emphasizes the importance of community and love among believers as they navigate these potentially tumultuous times. He calls on Christians to prepare their hearts and minds for the challenges ahead, fostering a spirit of unity and support within the church. The overarching message is one of hope and resilience, reinforcing the idea that while persecution may come, it is not without purpose. By anchoring the discussion in biblical truth, Rappaport inspires listeners to remain steadfast in their faith, to rejoice in their sufferings, and to embody the love of Christ even in the face of adversity.


    Takeaways:

    • Expect persecution as Christians; it is a common experience worldwide and may intensify in America soon.
    • Our response to suffering should be rooted in a high view of God, which helps us endure trials.
    • Peter's letters advise Christians to prepare spiritually for persecution and to support one another.
    • Suffering for Christ is distinct from suffering due to personal wrongdoing or poor behavior.
    • Rejoicing in suffering for Christ's sake reflects the joy of sharing in his glory.
    • We must recognize the difference between righteous suffering and deserved punishment, ensuring our actions honor God.


    Links referenced in this episode:

    • strivingforeternity.org


    This podcast is a ministry of

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    56 mins
  • Did you have your Coffee Today?
    Oct 30 2024

    Rapp Report episode 316

    Andrew talks with Joe from Squirrelly Joe’s Coffee. Learn all about coffee. Can a business be a ministry?

    This podcast is a ministry of Striving for Eternity and all our resources

    Listen to other podcasts on the Christian Podcast Community

    Support Striving for Eternity

    Leave us a review

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    Get the book What Do They Believe

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    Squirrelly Joe’s Coffee use the code SFEfor 20% off your purchase

    Logos Bible Software

    MyPillow or call (800) 873-0176 and use promo SFE

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    55 mins
  • Challenging Limited Atonement
    Oct 23 2024

    Rapp Report episode 316

    Austin Brown challenges the current view of Limited Atonement in his book A Boisterously Reformed Polemic Against Limited Atonement.

    Resources mentioned:

    Bonus: Superintending the Solution to Calvinism vs. Arminianism, What We Believe, Part 27



    This podcast is a ministry of Striving for Eternity and all our resources

    Listen to other podcasts on the Christian Podcast Community

    Support Striving for Eternity

    Leave us a review

    Give us your feedback, email us info@StrivingForEternity.com


    Get the book What Do They Believe

    Get the book What Do We Believe


    Sponsors:

    Squirrelly Joe’s Coffee use the code SFEfor 20% off your purchase

    Logos Bible Software

    MyPillow or call (800) 873-0176 and use promo SFE

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    1 hr and 7 mins
  • Christian Responsibility to Other Christians
    Oct 16 2024

    Rapp Report episode 315

    Greg Moore of the Dead Men Walking podcast, Keith Foskey of the You Calvist podcast, and Andrew Rappaport of the Rapp Report and Apologetics Live podcasts join together to discuss our responsibility to our fellow brothers and sisters in need in light of disasters.

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    46 mins
  • From Drug Dealer to Missionary - Alex Wright
    Oct 10 2024

    Rapp Report episode 314

    Andrew interviewed Alex Wright of Vessels for Christ. Hear how Christ redeemed him for drug addiction and now uses him around the world to further the kingdom of God.

    If you want to support Vessels for Christ's ministry, you can use Zelle and send it to awright@vesselsforchrist.org. All donations are tax-deductible.

    This podcast is a ministry of Striving for Eternity and all our resources

    Listen to other podcasts on the Christian Podcast Community


    Support Striving for Eternity


    Leave us a review


    Give us your feedback, email us info@StrivingForEternity.com


    Get the book What Do They Believe


    Get the book What Do We Believe


    Sponsors:

    Squirrelly Joe’s Coffee

    Logos Bible Software

    MyPillow or call (800) 873-0176 and use promo SFE

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    52 mins
  • Am I Racist?
    Oct 2 2024

    Rapp Report episode 315

    Andrew comes on the Are You Just Watching podcast to review the movie Am I Racist. See the detailed show notes.

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    1 hr and 19 mins
  • Church, the Purpose, Part 6 of What We Believe, Part 42
    Sep 25 2024
    Rapp Report episode 312 The purpose of the church is to glorify God (Ephesians 3:21) by building itself up in the faith (Ephesians 4:13-16), by instruction of the Word (2 Timothy 2:2, 15; 3:16-17), by fellowship (Acts 2:47; 1 John 1:3), by keeping the ordinances (Luke 22:19; Acts 2:38-42), and by advancing and communicating the gospel to the entire world (Matthew 28:19; Acts 1:8; 2:42). The local church is a God-centered, Bible-centered ministry that seeks eternal preparation by the exaltation of God, edification and equipping of believers, and evangelization of the world, starting with the local community.The Bible teaches the calling of all saints to the work of service (1 Corinthians 15:58; Ephesians 4:12; Revelation 22:12).This podcast is a ministry of Striving for Eternity and all our resources Listen to other podcasts on the Christian Podcast CommunitySupport Striving for EternityLeave us a reviewGive us your feedback, email us info@StrivingForEternity.comGet the book What Do They BelieveGet the book What Do We BelieveSponsors:Squirrelly Joe’s CoffeeLogos Bible SoftwareMyPillow or call (800) 873-0176 and use promo SFE
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    1 hr and 6 mins
  • Church, Denominations, Part 6 of What We Believe, Part 42
    Sep 18 2024

    Rapp Report episode 311

    Andrew returns to the series What We Believe.

    The local church is autonomous, free from any external authority or control, with the right of self-government and freedom from the interference of any hierarchy of individuals or organizations (Titus 1:5). It is scriptural for true churches to cooperate with each other for the presentation and propagation of the faith. Each local church, however, through its elders and their interpretation and application of Scripture, should be the sole judge of the measure and method of its cooperation. The elders should determine all other matters of membership, policy, discipline, benevolence, and government, as well (Acts 15:19-31; 20:28; 1 Corinthians 5:4-7, 13; 1 Peter 5:1-4).

    This podcast is a ministry of Striving for Eternity and all our resources

    Listen to other podcasts on the Christian Podcast Community


    Support Striving for Eternity


    Leave us a review


    Give us your feedback, email us info@StrivingForEternity.com


    Get the book What Do They Believe


    Get the book What Do We Believe


    Sponsors:

    Squirrelly Joe’s Coffee

    Logos Bible Software

    MyPillow or call (800) 873-0176 and use promo SFE

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Bible Interpretation made Easy seminar

    Book a SfE speaker today

    We have several speakers that can cover many different topics. Contact us today: speaker@sfe.bible

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    1 hr and 6 mins