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How Christians Recognize False Teaching Earl May 14, 2026

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How Christians Recognize False Teaching EarlyAuthor: Dave JenkinsShow: Anchored in the Word with Dave JenkinsDate: May 14, 2026Show SummaryFalse teaching rarely begins with obvious denials of the truth. More often, it starts with subtle distortions that gradually move people away from the authority of God’s Word.In this episode of Anchored in the Word with Dave Jenkins, Dave explains how Christians can recognize false teaching before it spreads, remain grounded in Scripture, and grow in biblical discernment.Drawing from Matthew 7:15, Acts 20:28–31, Acts 17:11, 1 Thessalonians 5:21, 2 Timothy 4:3, and Hebrews 5:14, this episode shows why false teaching is a biblical reality, how it often begins with small shifts, and how believers can guard themselves through sound doctrine, spiritual maturity, and life in the local church. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}Listen to the EpisodeWatch the EpisodeKey ScripturesMatthew 7:15Acts 20:28–31Acts 17:111 Thessalonians 5:212 Timothy 4:3Hebrews 5:14Episode HighlightsWhy false teaching is a biblical realityHow false teaching often begins with subtle doctrinal shiftsWhy Scripture alone is the final authority for faith and practiceWarning signs Christians should recognize earlyHow false teaching spreads when discernment is neglectedHow believers can guard themselves through sound doctrine and local church lifeWhy biblical discernment is rooted in love for Christ and His peopleFull ArticleHow can Christians recognize false teaching before it spreads?That is not only an important question. It is a necessary one for every Christian and every church today.Throughout church history, false teaching has never announced itself clearly. It rarely begins with open rejection of the gospel. Instead, it often begins subtly, with small distortions that slowly move people away from biblical truth. Scripture does not call believers merely to respond to error after it has done damage. It calls us to recognize it early and remain anchored in Christ through His Word. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}False Teaching Is a Biblical RealityThe New Testament repeatedly warns believers about false teachers. Jesus warned in Matthew 7:15 that false prophets come in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. Paul warned the Ephesian elders in Acts 20 that false teachers would arise even from among God’s people. Peter addressed deception directly in his letters, showing that this danger is not rare or unexpected.False teaching is part of life in a fallen world. Christians should not be surprised by it. We should be prepared for it. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}False Teaching Often Begins with Small ShiftsError rarely starts with outright heresy. It often begins with smaller shifts that appear harmless at first. A teacher may begin by adding another authority alongside the Word of God. Biblical terms may be redefined. Experience may be elevated over truth. Spiritual power may be promised without repentance. Personal revelation may begin to rival the authority of Scripture.These changes can seem small in the moment, but over time they reshape both doctrine and practice. That is why discernment matters so much. Christians need to be grounded in the Bible, shaped by the truth, and alert to what subtly pulls people away from Christ. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}Scripture Alone Is the Primary TestThe first and most important question Christians must ask is simple: Does this teaching align with the Word of God?Not partial Scripture. Not isolated verses. Not emotional impressions. The standard is the whole counsel of God. Acts 17:11 praises the Bereans because they examined the Scriptures daily to test what they heard. Biblical discernment always returns to God’s Word as the final authority for faith and practice.Christians must test everything and hold fast to what is good. Discernment does not move away from the Bible. It goes back to it again and again, asking what God has actually said and what His Word actually means. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}Warning Signs Christians Should Watch ForScripture teaches believers to watch for patterns.One warning sign is when authority begins to shift away from the Word of God and personal visions, prophecies, or impressions are treated as equal to Scripture. Another warning sign is when Christ becomes secondary and teaching focuses more on human potential, success, or influence than on the saving work of Jesus.Repentance also disappears in false teaching. The gospel calls sinners to repentance and faith, but false teaching often replaces repentance with affirmation. Emotional manipulation can also overtake biblical truth when feelings become the measure of what is real instead of Scripture regulating how we think, live, and respond.Another serious warning sign is the rejection of accountability. False teachers resist correction and avoid biblical oversight. Yet Jesus said that we recognize teachers by their fruit, not merely by their charisma. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}Why False Teaching Spreads So QuicklyFalse teaching spreads because it often promises what sinful hearts naturally want. It offers certainty without submission to the Word of God. It offers power without holiness, blessing without suffering, and authority without accountability.Paul warned in 2 Timothy 4:3 that people gather teachers who tell them what they want to hear. That is why discernment requires humility, not just knowledge. Christians must be willing to submit their desires, assumptions, and preferences to the truth of Scripture. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}How Christians Can Guard ThemselvesScripture gives practical help for guarding against false teaching.Know sound doctrine so truth becomes more recognizable.Stay rooted in a faithful local church where there is biblical shepherding and accountability.Test teaching patiently instead of assuming that popularity equals faithfulness.Grow in spiritual maturity, since mature believers have trained discernment.Prioritize Christ above personalities, remembering that faith is anchored in Him, not in human leaders.God protects His people through His Word, through faithful shepherds, and through the life of the local church. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}The Goal of DiscernmentDiscernment is not about suspicion for its own sake. It is not about controversy, pride, or constant criticism. Biblical discernment is about love.It is love for Christ, love for His truth, love for His church, and love for people who might otherwise be led astray. Discernment protects the gospel and helps keep people anchored in Christ as He is revealed in Scripture.Biblical discernment is not cynicism. It is judging teaching by the truth of God’s Word, speaking the truth in love, and exposing error so that the gospel remains clear. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}Takeaways and Reflection QuestionsAre you testing what you hear by the whole counsel of God?Do you recognize how false teaching often begins with small shifts rather than obvious denials?Are you rooted in a faithful local church where biblical accountability is present?Are you growing in discernment through sound doctrine and spiritual maturity?Do you see discernment as an act of love for Christ and His people?Related ResourcesServants of GraceMore podcast episodes at Servants of GraceCall to ActionIf this episode encouraged you, share it with a friend, subscribe to Anchored in the Word with Dave Jenkins, YouTube, and visit Servants of Grace for more biblical teaching that helps you stay rooted in the Word of God and anchored in Christ.

Psalm 141: Guarding Your Heart, Words, and Life Before God May 07, 2026

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Psalm 141: Guarding Your Heart, Words, and Life Before GodShow: Walking Through the PsalmsAuthor: Dave JenkinsDate: May 8, 2026In this episode of Walking Through the Psalms, Dave Jenkins teaches Psalm 141 and explains why the greatest battle Christians face is not only the sin around them, but the sin within them.Psalm 141 provides a model prayer for purity, showing how believers are to seek the Lord for help in guarding their speech, their desires, and their daily lives. This passage reminds us that prayer is not routine, but dependence on God, and that true holiness begins in the heart.Listen or Watch Key ScripturePsalm 141Episode HighlightsPrayer is dependence on God, not routineGuarding your words reveals a guarded heartSin is cultivated in the heart before it is committedCorrection is a gift of God's graceFixing your eyes on God brings stability and hopeSubscribe and ListenSubscribe to Servants of Grace series on Psalms for more biblical teaching and resources or at our YouTube.

Biblical Discernment in a Confused Culture May 07, 2026

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Biblical Discernment in a Confused CultureBy Dave Jenkins | Anchored in the Word | Servants of GraceShow SummaryWe live in a time of overwhelming information, competing voices, and cultural confusion. Every day, people are told what truth is, who they are, how they should live, and what they should believe. In this episode of Anchored in the Word, Dave Jenkins answers an increasingly urgent question: how can Christians discern between biblical truth and cultural lies?Drawing from passages such as 1 Thessalonians 5:21, Hebrews 4:12, 2 Corinthians 11:14, Matthew 7:16, Hebrews 5:14, and James 1:5, Dave explains why discernment matters, why the Word of God is the foundation of discernment, how cultural lies often appear, and how Christians can grow in spiritual maturity through daily obedience to God’s truth.Biblical discernment is not rooted in suspicion, harshness, or personal preference. It is grounded in the Word of God, shaped by sound doctrine, strengthened in the local church, and practiced through faithful Christian living. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}Audio PlayerVideo PlayerKey Scriptures1 Thessalonians 5:21Hebrews 4:122 Corinthians 11:14Matthew 7:16Hebrews 5:14James 1:5Episode HighlightsWhy discernment is not optional for the ChristianWhy the Word of God is the foundation of discernmentHow cultural lies often disguise themselvesBiblical questions Christians should ask when evaluating ideas and teachingWhy discernment requires spiritual maturityCommon mistakes Christians make about discernmentPractical ways to grow in discernmentFull ArticleHow do Christians discern between biblical truth and cultural lies?That question matters because we are living in a time of overwhelming information and constant confusion. Every day, believers are confronted with competing voices telling them what truth is, who they are, how they should live, and what they should believe. Some of these voices sound compassionate. Some sound spiritual. Some even borrow Christian language. But the issue is not whether something sounds good. The issue is whether it is true according to the Word of God. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}Discernment is not optional for the Christian. Scripture commands believers to test everything and hold fast to what is good. Discernment protects our faith, guards the church, and helps us walk wisely in a confused world. Without discernment, believers drift. With discernment, believers grow in stability and maturity. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}True discernment begins with the Word of God. It does not begin with personal opinion, cultural trends, or individual preference. Hebrews 4:12 reminds us that the Word of God is living and active and able to discern the thoughts and intentions of the heart. God’s Word is the measuring standard for all true and biblical discernment. If we do not know the Word of God, we will not recognize error when it appears. Discernment is not first about spotting lies. It is about knowing the truth revealed in Scripture. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}Cultural lies rarely announce themselves openly. More often they arrive disguised as compassion without truth, spirituality without repentance, identity without creation, freedom without holiness, and love without obedience. Scripture warns that even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. Error often sounds appealing because it mixes truth with distortion. That is why Christians must know the truth well and be grounded in it. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}Biblical discernment asks biblical questions. Does this teaching align with the Word of God? Does it exalt Christ or self? Does it call for repentance or affirm sin? Does it produce spiritual fruit? These are not minor questions. They help believers test teaching, evaluate ideas, and recognize whether something reflects the truth of God or the spirit of the age. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}Discernment also requires spiritual maturity. Hebrews 5:14 teaches that mature believers have their powers of discernment trained by constant practice. That means discernment grows through regular Scripture reading, faithful preaching, prayer, life in the local church, and the daily application of truth to the heart and life. Discernment is a skill shaped by obedience to God. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}At the same time, Christians need to avoid common mistakes about discernment. Some assume discernment means being cynical, harsh, suspicious, or argumentative. But biblical discernment is not about winning debates. It is about protecting souls with the truth of God’s Word. It is humble, careful, loving, and grounded in truth. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}So how can Christians grow in discernment? Stay rooted in the Word of God daily. Learn sound doctrine. Remain connected to a healthy local church. Pray for wisdom. Test ideas patiently. Truth becomes familiar through repetition, and theology strengthens spiritual instincts. God has not left His people without guidance. Believers have the Word of God, the Spirit of God, and the people of God. Truth is not hidden from those who seek the Lord. As Christians anchor their minds and hearts in God’s Word, discernment grows, stability deepens, and faithfulness becomes more evident in daily life. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}TakeawaysDiscernment is a biblical command, not an optional skill.The Word of God is the standard for testing every teaching and idea.Cultural lies often disguise themselves in appealing language.Spiritual maturity strengthens discernment through constant practice.Christians grow in discernment through Scripture, doctrine, prayer, and the local church.Call to ActionSubscribe to Servants of Grace wherever you listen to podcasts, and visit servantsofgrace.org for more trusted biblical resources.Stay rooted in the Word of God and anchored in Christ.For more from Anchored in the Word please visit our page at Servants of Grace or at our YouTube.

Psalm 140 Explained: Trusting God in a World of Evil Apr 30, 2026

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Psalm 140 Explained: Trusting God in a World of Evil By Dave Jenkins | Walking Through the Psalms Show Summary Evil is real, intentional, and destructive. Psalm 140 shows us how to respond when we are surrounded by wickedness and reminds us that God is not indifferent. He sees, He protects, and He will judge. In this episode, Dave Jenkins walks through Psalm 140 and shows how believers can trust God as their refuge while resting in His justice. This psalm ultimately points us to Jesus Christ, who endured evil and secured victory through the cross. Listen to the Episode Watch the Episode Key Scriptures Psalm 140 2 Corinthians 5:20 Romans 12:19 1 Peter 2:23 Episode Highlights Evil is intentional and active (Psalm 140:1–5) God is our refuge and protector (Psalm 140:6–7) God will judge evil righteously (Psalm 140:8–11) God will vindicate His people (Psalm 140:12–13) Psalm 140 ultimately points to Christ Key Takeaway In a world where evil is intentional and persistent, God calls His people to trust Him as their refuge and rest in His justice. Call to Action If this episode encouraged you, share it with others and explore more resources at Servants of Grace. For more from our Psalm series please visit here or at our YouTube.

Why Confession and Repentance Are Essential for Christian Growth Apr 29, 2026

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Why Confession and Repentance Are Essential for Christian GrowthAuthor: Dave JenkinsShow: Anchored in the Word with Dave JenkinsDate: April 30, 2026Show SummaryWhy are confession and repentance essential for Christian growth? In this episode of Anchored in the Word, Dave Jenkins explains why repentance is not merely the beginning of the Christian life, but its ongoing rhythm. Drawing from passages such as 1 John 1:9, Mark 1:15, Psalm 32, Romans 8:13, and James 5:16, Dave shows how confession restores fellowship with God, repentance produces spiritual fruit, and the grace of God leads believers into deeper holiness, joy, and assurance in Christ.Audio PlayerVideo PlayerKey Scriptures1 John 1:9Mark 1:15Revelation 2–3Matthew 3:8Psalm 32Romans 8:13Ezekiel 36:26–27Hebrews 12:6James 5:16Acts 11:18Romans 2:4Episode HighlightsRepentance is the ongoing rhythm of the Christian lifeConfession restores fellowship with GodRepentance is more than simply saying “I’m sorry”Unchecked sin hardens the heart and hinders communion with GodRepentance produces humility, joy, and spiritual clarityThe Holy Spirit empowers believers to put sin to deathRepentance and assurance go togetherConfession within Christian community helps strengthen believersFull ArticleEvery Christian desires to grow. Every believer wants to mature in Christ, to walk more faithfully with the Lord, and to know deeper fellowship with Him. But the Word of God is crystal clear: there is no spiritual growth without repentance, and there is no close fellowship with God without confession of sin.Repentance is not something we do only once when we first come to Christ. It is the ongoing rhythm of the Christian life. Martin Luther famously said that the entire Christian life is one of repentance, and John Calvin likewise emphasized that repentance is not merely the start of the Christian life, but the Christian life itself. Scripture confirms this truth. In 1 John 1:9, confessing sin is taught as a continual practice. In Mark 1:15, Jesus begins His ministry by calling people to repent and believe the gospel. In Revelation 2 and 3, the risen Christ calls entire churches to repentance. Repentance is not optional. It is essential.Confession restores fellowship with God. When a Christian sins, his union with Christ is not broken, but his fellowship with God is hindered. Our security in Christ remains sure because it rests on the finished work of Christ, but our communion with the Lord can be interrupted by unconfessed sin. This is why confession matters so deeply. First John 1:9 tells us that God is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. Confession is not informing God of something He does not know. It is agreeing with God about what He already knows and sees.Biblical repentance is more than saying, “I’m sorry.” Repentance involves acknowledging sin honestly, without excuses or blame-shifting. It means turning away from sin with a deliberate break from it, and turning toward Christ in faith. Repentance is not merely stopping sinful behavior; it is returning to the Lord. Matthew 3:8 makes clear that repentance bears fruit. It produces change—not perfection, but real direction toward God.Christians must practice continual repentance because sin blinds and hardens the heart. We do not always see our sin clearly until Scripture, the Holy Spirit, or faithful believers bring it into the light. Left unchecked, sin becomes increasingly comfortable. We begin to treat it lightly, even respectably, instead of seeing it as the rebellion against God that it truly is. Repentance breaks that pattern. It humbles us before the Lord and reminds us daily of our need for the grace of God in Christ.Repentance also leads to joy. Psalm 32 shows that unconfessed sin crushes the soul, but forgiveness restores gladness and peace. Repentance is not the enemy of joy; it is the pathway to it. The believer who walks in repentance is not walking in despair but in the freedom of grace.This repentance is empowered by the Holy Spirit. Biblical repentance is not self-improvement or moral reform. Ezekiel 36:26–27 tells us that God gives a new heart and causes His people to walk in His statutes. Romans 8:13 teaches that by the Spirit believers put sin to death. We repent because God is at work in us, giving us grace to turn from sin and walk in obedience.Repentance and assurance also belong together. Many Christians struggle with assurance not because they are outside of Christ, but because they are not walking in the light of repentance. Hebrews teaches that the Lord disciplines those whom He loves. His discipline is not cruel or distant. It is fatherly, loving, and purposeful. God disciplines His children because He cares for them and desires restored communion with them. Repentance brings renewed clarity, peace, and confidence in Christ.Confession is also important within Christian community. While private confession before God is essential, James 5:16 teaches that believers are also to confess their sins to one another. This is not about public humiliation, but about accountability, prayer, help, and restoration. God often uses mature believers and faithful pastors to help us see our sin clearly and walk in repentance more fully.At the heart of all of this is the gospel. Repentance is not punishment. It is grace. Acts 11:18 calls repentance a gift. Romans 2:4 says that God’s kindness leads us to repentance. The Lord does not call His children to repentance to crush them, but to restore them. In Christ, repentance is not a burden to dread but a gift to receive. It is God’s gracious invitation away from sin and into renewed fellowship, peace, holiness, and joy.Christians do not outgrow repentance. They grow through it. The more we walk honestly before God, confessing our sin and turning afresh to Christ, the more we grow in humility, assurance, and joy. Repentance is not a sign that grace has failed. It is one of the clearest evidences that grace is at work.Takeaways / Reflection QuestionsDo you view repentance as a burden, or as a gracious gift from God?Are there sins you have been minimizing instead of confessing honestly before the Lord?How does 1 John 1:9 encourage you to walk in daily confession?In what ways does repentance restore joy and fellowship with God?Who are the mature believers or pastors in your life who can help strengthen you in repentance and accountability?Related ResourcesAnchored in the Word ArchiveAnchored in the Word YouTubeCall to ActionThank you for listening to this episode of Anchored in the Word with Dave Jenkins. We pray this episode helps you remain anchored in the truth of God’s Word and anchored in Christ. Please subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with others.

Psalm 139: Known by God, Formed with Purpose, Called to Holiness Apr 23, 2026

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Psalm 139: Known by God, Formed with Purpose, Called to Holiness Series: Walking Through the Psalms Host: Dave Jenkins Show Summary In this episode of Walking Through the Psalms, Dave Jenkins continues the study of Psalm 139, focusing on verses 13–24. This passage reveals a deeply personal and searching truth: the God who knows us completely is the God who formed us intentionally, cares for us personally, and calls us to walk in holiness. Psalm 139 teaches that our lives are not accidental. We are created by God with purpose, known fully by Him, and called to respond in trust, obedience, and honesty before Him. Listen or Watch Key Scripture Psalm 139:13–24 Episode Highlights God formed you intentionally God’s thoughts toward His people are precious God calls His people to holiness The proper response is to invite God to search your heart Psalm 139 ultimately points to Jesus Christ Main Takeaway Because God knows you completely and formed you intentionally, you are called to trust Him fully and walk in obedience before Him. Call to Action If this episode encouraged you, share it with others and consider subscribing to Servants of Grace for more biblical teaching and resources. For more from our Psalm series please visit here or at our YouTube.

How Christians Grow in Assurance of Salvation Apr 22, 2026

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How Christians Grow in Assurance of Salvation Host: Dave Jenkins Show: Anchored in the Word (Servants of Grace) Topic: How can I grow in assurance of salvation? Show Summary Many Christians struggle with assurance of salvation. Doubt can creep in through suffering, discouragement, lingering sin, or seasons when emotions feel heavy. Some believers fear they have sinned too much, while others wonder whether their faith is real. But the Word of God speaks with clarity, tenderness, and strength about assurance. In this episode of Anchored in the Word, Dave Jenkins explains how believers grow in assurance by trusting God’s promises, resting in Christ’s finished work, relying on the Holy Spirit’s testimony, practicing the ordinary means of grace, examining their lives biblically, and persevering in faith. Christians grow in assurance of salvation by trusting God’s promises, resting in Christ’s finished work, relying on the Holy Spirit, using the means of grace, examining their lives biblically, and persevering in faith. Audio Player Video Player Key Scriptures John 10:28–29 Romans 8:38–39 Philippians 1:6 Hebrews 10:14 Romans 8:16 Galatians 5:22–23 2 Corinthians 13:5 Episode Notes 1. Assurance Begins with the Promises of God Your assurance does not begin with your performance. It begins with God’s character and God’s Word. Jesus promises that His people are secure in His hand. John 10:28–29 — No one can snatch Christ’s sheep from His hand. Romans 8:38–39 — Nothing can separate believers from the love of God in Christ. Philippians 1:6 — God will complete the work He began in His people. Christians grow in assurance by trusting what God has said, not by trusting how they feel or how well they think they are doing. 2. Assurance Rests in the Finished Work of Christ Assurance is not built on our obedience, consistency, or spiritual performance. It is built on Christ—His obedience, His righteousness, and His finished work on the cross. Hebrews 10:14 — By a single offering, Christ has perfected for all time those who are being sanctified. The basis of your salvation is Christ Himself, and the basis of your assurance is also Christ Himself. 3. Assurance Strengthens Through the Holy Spirit’s Testimony The Holy Spirit strengthens assurance in two key ways: through His internal witness and through the fruit He produces in the believer’s life. Romans 8:16 — The Spirit bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God. Galatians 5:22–23 — The Spirit produces spiritual fruit in believers. Fruit does not save us, but it does confirm that God is at work in us. 4. Assurance Grows Through the Means of Grace The ordinary means of grace are not glamorous, but they are powerful. God uses these means to provide stability and growth. God’s Word — The Spirit uses Scripture to strengthen faith. Prayer — Communion with God strengthens confidence in Him. The Local Church — Hearing the gospel preached and living in community shapes assurance. The Lord’s Supper — A visible reminder of Christ’s finished work. 5. Assurance Grows as We Examine Ourselves Biblically Scripture calls believers to examine themselves—not to spiral into fear, but to confirm genuine faith. 2 Corinthians 13:5 — Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith. Helpful questions include: Do I trust in Christ alone for salvation? Do I hate my sin and desire to grow? Is there evidence of the Spirit’s work in my life? Am I walking imperfectly and yet genuinely with Christ? This is not self-condemnation. It is gospel-shaped reflection. 6. Assurance Deepens as We Persevere in the Lord Assurance grows over time. As we walk with Christ through years of trusting, repenting, praying, worshiping, and obeying, a deeper confidence forms: Christ is keeping me, and He will keep me to the end. What Robs Christians of Assurance of Salvation? Assurance does not vanish because God changes. It weakens when we stop looking to the Lord. Unconfessed sin Neglect of God’s Word Isolation from the local church Listening to feelings over Scripture Legalism or performance-based Christianity Conclusion At the heart of assurance is this: You are saved by Christ. You are kept by Christ. You will be glorified by Christ. Your salvation is secure not because your grip is strong, but because His grip on you is unbreakable. Next Episode Next Thursday, we will talk about why confession and repentance are essential for Christian growth and how this builds on what we have discussed about assurance and sanctification. Call to Action Anchored in the Word is a weekly segment of the Servants of Grace podcast. Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts, and watch every episode on the Servants of Grace YouTube channel. If this episode encouraged you, consider sharing it with someone who may be struggling with assurance. Thank you for listening or watching. Stay rooted in the Word of God and anchored in Christ. For more from Anchored in the Word, visit our page or our YouTube playlist.

Psalm 139: Known Fully, Never Alone Apr 16, 2026

Show notes

Psalm 139: Known Fully, Never Alone Show: Walking Through the Psalms Host: Dave Jenkins Show Summary In this episode of Walking Through the Psalms, Dave Jenkins walks through Psalm 139:1–12 and explains how this passage reveals the depth of God’s knowledge and presence. Psalm 139 reminds us that God knows us completely, is with us constantly, and sees even what we cannot. This truth brings comfort, confidence, and clarity to the Christian life. Because of Christ: You are fully known You are never alone You are held by a faithful God Audio Video Key Scriptures Psalm 139:1–12 John 2:24–25 Matthew 28:20 2 Corinthians 5:20 Romans 5 Episode Highlights God’s complete and personal knowledge of His people The inescapable presence of God God’s presence even in darkness and suffering The connection between Psalm 139 and Jesus Christ Comfort for believers and warning for unbelievers Big Idea God’s perfect knowledge and constant presence gives us unshakable confidence to trust Him in every circumstance of life. Call to Action If you were encouraged by this episode, share it with others and help spread biblical truth. For more from our Psalms series, visit the Psalms archive or subscribe on YouTube.

How Christians Deal with Guilt and Shame Apr 15, 2026

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How Christians Deal with Guilt and Shame Show: Anchored in the Word with Dave Jenkins Author: Dave Jenkins Show Summary Many Christians struggle with guilt and shame. Understanding how Christians deal with guilt and shame biblically is essential for the Christian life. Even after confessing sin, believers can feel the lingering weight of failure, regret, or unworthiness. But Scripture speaks clearly, tenderly, and powerfully to both—and the gospel gives the answer. In this episode, we walk through what God’s Word teaches about guilt and shame, and how the sufficiency of Christ brings forgiveness, cleansing, and renewed hope. How Christians Deal with Guilt and Shame Christians deal with guilt and shame through confessing sin, receiving God's forgiveness by faith, walking in repentance, and resting in their identity in Christ. Scripture teaches that guilt leads to restoration, while shame is answered by the cleansing, acceptance, and new identity believers have in Jesus. This teaching builds on the biblical foundation of repentance, forgiveness, and identity in Christ found throughout Scripture. Audio Player Video Player Key Scriptures Psalm 32:5 1 John 1:9 Psalm 103:12 Romans 8:1 Romans 8:33 2 Corinthians 5:17 Hebrews 9:14 Ephesians 1:5–6 Episode Highlights The difference between guilt and shame Why guilt is meant to lead us to confession and restoration Receiving God’s forgiveness by faith Walking in repentance and renewed obedience How identity in Christ answers shame How the blood of Christ cleanses the conscience Why shame grows in secrecy and dies in the light How the cross answers both guilt and shame Full Article Guilt and Shame: What’s the Difference? Every Christian knows what guilt feels like. Many also wrestle with shame—the sense of unworthiness that can linger long after sin is confessed. But the Word of God speaks clearly to both. Guilt says, “I did something wrong.” Shame says, “There is something wrong with me.” Both are results of the fall, but they function differently. And Scripture addresses both—not with self-esteem or self-help, but with the gospel. The Word of God Speaks to Both Psalm 32:5 says, “I acknowledged my sin to you… and you forgave the iniquity of my sin.” Romans 8:1 says, “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” Guilt has an answer. Shame has an answer. And both answers are found in the sufficiency of Christ revealed in the Word of God. How Christians Deal with Guilt 1) Honest confession Biblical guilt is meant to lead us to confession and restoration. Not excuses. Not minimizing. Not blame-shifting. 1 John 1:9 says, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us.” Confess sin—real sin—not hidden sin. 2) Receive God’s forgiveness by faith Some believers confess their sin but then hold onto guilt as if Christ’s work was insufficient—replaying it in their hearts and minds again and again. But Scripture says in Psalm 103:12, “As far as the east is from the west, so far does he remove our transgressions from us.” When God forgives, He removes our sin completely. 3) Walk in repentance Forgiveness isn’t the end. Repentance is a new direction—empowered by the grace of God. Guilt is dealt with through confession, forgiveness, and renewed obedience. How Christians Deal with Shame Shame is often more stubborn. It isn’t just about what you did, but about who you think you are. But Scripture speaks a better word. 1) Shame is answered by identity in Christ Your failures do not define you. Christ does. 2 Corinthians 5:17 says, “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation.” 2) Shame is answered by Christ’s cleansing Not only are you forgiven—you are cleansed. Hebrews 9:14 teaches that the blood of Christ purifies our conscience. Shame says, “You’re dirty.” Christ says, “You’re washed.” 3) Shame is answered by God’s acceptance Shame whispers that you’re unwanted. But Scripture says you are adopted, loved, and known. Ephesians 1:5–6 tells us we are adopted to the praise of God’s glorious grace. 4) Shame is answered by community Shame grows in secrecy, but it dies in the light of Christ and in fellowship with his people. God never designed you to fight shame alone. How the Gospel Frees You from Both The enemy loves to weaponize guilt and shame. He wants you to believe your sin defines you—that you can never be free, that God is disappointed in you, that you’re unlovable, and that you should hide. But Scripture says in Romans 8:33, “Who shall bring any charge against God’s elect?” If you are a Christian, Christ is your advocate—not your accuser. The cross answers guilt. The cross answers shame. Guilt is forgiven. Shame is covered. Identity is renewed. Conscience is cleansed. Relationship with God is restored by grace alone. Your past does not get the final word. If you are in Christ, Christ has the final word—because Christ is truly sufficient, and He always will be. Takeaways / Reflection Questions Am I confusing guilt (what I have done) with shame (who I think I am)? Have I confessed sin honestly, or have I minimized and excused it? Am I receiving God’s forgiveness by faith, or replaying forgiven sin as if Christ’s work is insufficient? What does Scripture say is true about my identity in Christ? Who can I invite into my life for prayer and encouragement instead of hiding in isolation? Call to Action If this episode helped you, please subscribe to Servants of Grace, leave a rating and review, and share it with a friend. You can also watch every episode on the Servants of Grace YouTube channel or visit the Anchored in the Word page for more episodes.

Psalm 138 Explained: Praising God in Every Season of Life Apr 09, 2026

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Psalm 138 Explained: Praising God in Every Season of Life By Dave Jenkins Psalm 138 shows us what faith looks like after it has been tested. After the sorrow and exile of Psalm 137, this psalm lifts our eyes to the steadfast love, faithfulness, and purposes of God. David praises the Lord with his whole heart not because life is easier, but because God is still faithful. In this episode of Walking Through the Psalms, we see that bold praise flows from confidence in God’s character, not comfort in our circumstances. This psalm reminds us that God hears His people, strengthens them in trouble, preserves them in the midst of conflict, and fulfills His purpose for their lives. Listen or Watch the Episode Audio: Video: What Does Psalm 138 Teach About Praising God in Every Season? Psalm 138 teaches that all praise flows from confidence in God’s character, not comfort in our circumstances. David begins with wholehearted thanksgiving, praising the Lord publicly in a world filled with false worship. He anchors his praise in God’s steadfast love, faithfulness, and Word. This psalm moves from personal praise to global vision. Worship is not meant to stay private. It declares the glory of God to the world. Even in the midst of trouble, David declares that the Lord preserves his life and stretches out His hand against his enemies. The psalm concludes with a strong statement of confidence: the Lord will fulfill His purpose for His people. This is not self-confidence, but God-centered confidence rooted in His enduring love. Key Takeaways from Psalm 138 Praise is rooted in God’s character, not our circumstances Worship is both personal and a witness to the world God is present and active in the midst of trouble The Lord will fulfill His purpose for His people Confidence in God produces bold, enduring praise How Psalm 138 Points to Christ Psalm 138 ultimately points us to Jesus Christ. Jesus perfectly trusted the Father, walked in the midst of trouble, and fulfilled God’s redemptive purposes through His life, death, and resurrection. Because of Christ, believers can rest in the confidence that God is at work and will complete what He has begun. Final Encouragement Dear Christian, Psalm 138 reminds us that faith does not end in sorrow. It grows through it. The same God you trust in hardship is the same God you can praise with confidence today. Lift your voice not because life is easy, but because God is faithful. He is present. He is at work. And He will fulfill His purpose. Subscribe and Follow If this episode encouraged you, consider subscribing to Servants of Grace wherever you listen to podcasts. For more from our Psalm series visit here or on our YouTube playlist.

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