Connect: Connecting the Bible to Life with Cole Phillips

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. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cole-phillips2/support

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. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cole-phillips2/support

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 --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cole-phillips2/support

In this episode of the Connect Podcast, join host Cole Phillips as he unpacks some rich insights found in Acts 20:13-27. The passage captures a pivotal moment in the life of the apostle Paul as he says goodbye to the leaders of the church in Ephesus. As Paul remembers his ministry with them, he shares his commitment to the Good News of Jesus. We will explore the timeless truths of purpose, perseverance, and priorities. Cole Phillips, a seasoned pastor and passionate communicator, unpacks the significance of Paul's journey to Jerusalem and the profound lessons it holds for us today. Drawing from his own experiences and the wisdom of Scripture, Cole offers practical ways to navigate life's challenges with faith and courage. Whether you're already a Christian or just curious about the faith, this episode will inspire and equip you to live a life of purpose and impact. So, tune in as Cole Phillips guides you through Acts 20:13-27, encouraging you to embrace God's calling for your life and pursue His kingdom with boldness and conviction. Don't miss this opportunity to get fresh insights and encouragement for your journey of faith. Join Cole Phillips on the Connect Podcast as we journey together toward a deeper understanding of God's purpose for our lives. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cole-phillips2/support

In this episode of the Connect podcast, Cole Phillips discusses the power of perseverance and the importance of community. He shares a story from the book 'The Power of Moments' about the peak-end rule, which states that people remember the best and worst parts of an experience, as well as the ending. Cole encourages listeners to finish strong and leave a good impression. He then dives into Acts chapter 20, highlighting Paul's missionary journey and the power of persistence. He also emphasizes the significance of coming together as a community of believers and the miracles that can happen when God's power is present. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cole-phillips2/support

Join us on the Connect Podcast with Cole Phillips for a thought-provoking exploration of how to effectively engage with culture, drawing insights from Acts 19:21-41. In this episode, we dive deep into the narrative of Paul's encounter with the vibrant city of Ephesus, uncovering timeless lessons for navigating cultural dynamics as modern-day believers. Cole Phillips looks into the cultural context of Ephesus, known for its devotion to the goddess Artemis, and examines Paul's strategic approach to engaging with the community. Through a blend of biblical exposition and real-life application, he will unpack the challenges Paul faced in confronting cultural norms and the wisdom he displayed in responding to opposition. As we dissect key passages from Acts 19:21-41, listeners will gain practical insights on how to study and understand the cultural context of their own communities, courageously challenge cultural norms in alignment with biblical principles, and respond with grace and wisdom in the middle of cultural conflicts. Whether you're a seasoned believer or new to the faith, this episode offers valuable perspectives on embracing cultural diversity while remaining steadfast in our Christian convictions. Tune in to the Connect Podcast with Cole Phillips as we embark on a journey of discovery, learning how to effectively engage culture with humility, love, and discernment. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cole-phillips2/support

Join host Cole Phillips in this illuminating episode of the Connect Podcast as we get into Acts 19:1-20, uncovering the powerful narrative of spiritual revival in Ephesus. In this episode, we journey through Paul’s experiences with people in Ephesus, witnessing the life-changing power of faith and the Holy Spirit. As we unpack the story, we discover the significance of genuine belief, the impact of spiritual encounters, and the importance of authentic discipleship. You will learn about your own spiritual journey and consider how you can experience personal revival in your life. From confronting spiritual obstacles to embracing the fullness of God's power, this episode gives encouragement and inspiration for anyone wanting to deepen their faith and experience the transformative work of the Holy Spirit. Tune in to the Connect Podcast with Cole Phillips and join us on a journey of spiritual discovery and renewal, as we explore Acts 19:1-20 and uncover the path to revival in our lives and community. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cole-phillips2/support

Welcome to the Connect Podcast with Cole Phillips! In this episode, we're diving into the significance of preparation in both monumental adventures and spiritual endeavors. Imagine the monumental challenge of climbing Mount Everest. It requires rigorous training, thorough preparation, and a vast array of specialized equipment. Just like climbing Everest, Easter weekend is a big deal for us as Christ-followers, requiring meticulous preparation. Cole draws parallels between the preparation needed for climbing Everest and the spiritual preparation required for Easter. Just as climbers need various tools and gear, we too need spiritual tools and readiness for what God has in store for us. Using Luke 9:51-56 as a foundation, Cole emphasizes Jesus's unwavering commitment to His mission despite rejection. He encourages us to prepare spiritually and practically, just as Jesus sent messengers ahead to prepare for His arrival. Through reflection on the disciples' reaction to rejection, Cole highlights the importance of maintaining focus on the mission of reaching the lost, rather than being deterred by rejection. With Easter approaching, Cole shares strategies for spiritual growth, reaching out to others, serving, and giving. From committing to prayer to inviting others to Easter services, every action contributes to the Kingdom's work. As Victory Sunday approaches, Cole invites listeners to participate in a special offering to support the vision of A Place to Call Home, emphasizing the impact of collective generosity. Ultimately, Cole underscores the core message of Easter: Christ's death and resurrection. This central truth is what we celebrate, and our preparation and actions during this season reflect our commitment to spreading the Good News. Join us as we prepare spiritually and practically for Easter, anticipating the transformative impact of celebrating Christ's victory over death. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cole-phillips2/support

In this episode of the Connect Podcast, we’ll examine Acts 18:23-28 and explore the inspiring story of Apollos and his powerful ministry. Join us as we unravel the impact of Apollos, an educated and eloquent man who was passionate about the Word of God. As we dissect the story, we uncover key lessons on the importance of ongoing discipleship, humility in learning from others, and the empowering work of the Holy Spirit to equip us for ministry. From Apollos' eagerness to grow his understanding of the Gospel to Aquila and Priscilla's mentorship and guidance, we see the transformative power of collaborative Kingdom work. We’ll get a handle on how Apollos' story challenges us to embrace a lifelong commitment to learning and teaching, letting the Holy Spirit empower us to effectively share the message of Jesus in our community and beyond. Tune in to this episode of the Connect Podcast to discover how Apollos' journey can inspire and equip you for a life of impactful ministry empowered by the Spirit. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cole-phillips2/support

Join Cole Phillips on this episode of the Connect Podcast as he unpacks Acts 18:1-22, exploring Paul’s profound journey from Athens, the intellectual capital of the Roman world, to Corinth, the center of sensuality. In this captivating story, Cole uncovers the spiritual significance behind Paul's travels and the contrasting evils represented by these two cities: intellectual pride and sensual lust. You’ll discover the significance embedded in Paul's mission, where he confronts entrenched strongholds of evil in Corinth, ranging from sexual license to emptiness and lack of purpose. As Paul arrives as a stranger in this city, listeners gain insights into his unwavering commitment to preach the Good News of Jesus, even in the face of big challenges. Throughout the episode, Cole highlights key lessons for modern-day believers, emphasizing the importance of being ready to go into hard, dark places and identify and disciple believers like Aquila and Priscilla. He underlines the significance of combining work with witness, showcasing Paul's example of working in tentmaking while reaching out. As the story unfolds, you will see Paul's courage in the face of opposition, illustrating how God's reassurance made him bold enough to continue preaching through his fear and uncertainty. The episode culminates in a reflection on the transformative power of God's work in Corinth, as strongholds are shattered, and lives are liberated through the preaching of the gospel. You are invited to find insights from Paul's ministry, discovering timeless principles for effective evangelism and spiritual growth in today's world. Through biblical exposition, Cole teaches the intricacies of Paul's journey, offering practical wisdom for navigating the complexities of modern-day mission and ministry. Tune in to this challenging episode of the Connect Podcast, where ancient truths intersect with contemporary relevance, inspiring listeners to go on their own journey of faith and service in Paul’s footsteps. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cole-phillips2/support

Join your host Cole Phillips on this enlightening episode of the Connect Podcast as we look into Acts 17:16-34, exploring the timeless message of Paul's encounter in Athens. In this passage, Paul walks through the city, observing the various altars and idols, leading him to engage with the Athenians about the "unknown god" they worship. Through Paul's example, we'll uncover profound insights about our modern search for meaning and the God we're all looking for. As Cole unpacks the narrative, he'll unpack how Paul navigated the cultural landscape of Athens, addressing the philosophical questions of his time and ultimately pointing people to the one true God. Drawing parallels to our contemporary world, Cole will explore the relevance of Paul's approach in today's context. In a society filled with diverse beliefs and ideologies, how do we engage with those searching for spiritual truth? How can we effectively communicate the gospel in a way that resonates with people's deepest longings? Tune in as Cole provides practical wisdom and encouragement for Christians seeking to engage thoughtfully and compassionately with those around them. Discover how you can effectively share the message of hope and salvation found in Jesus Christ, helping others find the God they're truly searching for. Whether you're navigating conversations about faith in your community or simply seeking a deeper understanding of evangelism, this episode offers valuable insights to guide you on your journey. Don't miss out on this inspiring discussion on connecting with others and pointing them to the God who satisfies every longing of the human heart. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cole-phillips2/support

Welcome to another inspiring episode of the Connect podcast! In this episode, we are taking an in-depth look at Acts 17:1-15, uncovering six powerful words that hold the key to reaching your friends for Jesus and turning the world right side up from upside down. Join Cole Phillips as he navigates through the pages of Acts, exploring the strategic and impactful approach of the early Christian leaders. Acts 17:1-15 gives a rich account that not only showcases effective evangelism but also reveals timeless principles for transforming communities. In this episode, Cole breaks down the six powerful words found in the passage, offering practical insights and action steps. From understanding the importance of cultural context to embracing the power of two-way dialogue, each word serves as a guide for contemporary believers wanting to make a difference in their circles of influence. Whether you're a seasoned Christian eager to refresh your approach to evangelism or someone curious about the teachings of Jesus, this episode is a must-listen. Discover how the experiences of Paul, Silas, and Timothy can inform your interactions and inspire a renewed passion for sharing the Gospel. Tune in to the Connect podcast for a thought-provoking exploration of Acts 17:1-15. Be inspired to engage with your friends in meaningful ways, embody the love of Christ, and contribute to the mission of turning the world right side up. Don't miss this empowering episode that promises to equip and motivate you on your journey of faith! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cole-phillips2/support

Join us in this inspiring episode as Cole and special guest Rowdy discuss the timeless wisdom found in the Book of Acts, chapter 16, verses 11-40. We will see Paul's journey to Philippi unfold, revealing profound principles for effective witnessing that transcend time and culture. Discover the flexibility and adaptability Paul and his companions exhibited as they navigated different contexts, guided by the Holy Spirit. Explore the art of engaging with seekers, responding to spiritual inquiries, and boldly sharing the transformative message of the Gospel, even in the face of opposition. In Acts 16, witness the power of personal testimony, the demonstration of God's miraculous interventions, and the importance of building relationships in the community. Learn how those early followers of Jesus not only shared the Good News but also invested in the good of those who embraced the faith. As we journey through these verses, we draw practical insights for effective witnessing in our contemporary world. Join Cole with a special guest, Rowdy for a thought-provoking discussion on how the principles found in Acts 16:11-40 can shape and empower your own approach to sharing the message of Christ. Whether you're a seasoned evangelist or new to witnessing, this episode offers valuable wisdom to enrich your journey of faith. Tune in and be inspired to share the love and hope found in the Gospel with those around you. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cole-phillips2/support

In this compelling episode, we look at Acts 16:6-11, unlocking insights on how obedience to God's call can be the catalyst for changing the world. Join us as we explore the divine guidance that led the apostle Paul to make strategic decisions, ultimately shaping the course of early Christianity. Unpacking the layers of Acts 16:6-11, we uncover the intricate dance of the Holy Spirit guiding Paul's missionary endeavors. Discover the power of divine redirection and the importance of discerning God's leading even when faced with detours. As we navigate through the story, we draw parallels between Paul's obedience and the modern-day calling to share the life-changing message of Jesus. In this episode, we address fundamental questions: How can our obedience to God's call make an impact on the world around us? What lessons can we learn from Paul's experiences as we strive to be effective messengers of the Gospel in our own sphere of influence? This episode is a roadmap for those seeking to be obedient to God's call in a world hungry for hope. Whether you're a seasoned believer or someone exploring faith, this discussion offers valuable insights into the power of following God's leading and its potential to change the world—one obedient step at a time. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cole-phillips2/support

In this enlightening episode, we'll look into the inspirational scripture of Acts 16:1-5. Join us as we explore the themes of consistency and faithfulness exhibited by the early Christians and consider how these powerful qualities can shape our own spiritual journeys today. We'll take a closer look at the steadfast character of Timothy—a young believer whom the Apostle Paul takes under his wing—and the impact of intergenerational mentorship upon the growth of the early Church. We unpack the importance of spiritual parentage and how Timothy's own commitment to his faith made him an exemplary figure for believers, both then and now. This episode aims not only to dissect how the early believers navigated the cultural and religious complexities of their time, but also to provide actionable insights on how we can apply the same consistency and faithfulness in our own lives. How did Timothy's decision to embrace his faith against societal pressures demonstrate loyalty to both his heritage and his newfound Christian beliefs? What can this story teach us about unity, adaptability, and the unwavering dedication to spreading the Gospel message? As we walk through the verses of Acts 16:1-5, we will examine the dynamic between faith and tradition, the willingness to adapt for the greater good of the mission, and the encouraging outcomes that resulted from the community's collective faithfulness. We'll also discuss the positive outcomes and growth of the early church communities as a direct result of their consistent witness and loyalty to their beliefs. So tune in to be inspired by the tales of the early faithful and to learn how to wield the powerful tools of consistency and faithfulness in your own spiritual journey towards a more dedicated and fulfilling walk with God. Whether you're a long-time believer or simply curious about the teachings of Acts, this episode promises to enrich your understanding and strengthen your resolve to live a life marked by steadfast faith. Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast for more insightful episodes that connect ancient wisdom with modern-day challenges. Join us for a conversation that will uplift your spirit and invigorate your faith practice. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cole-phillips2/support

In this insightful episode of Connect, we look into the pages of Acts 15:36-41 to explore the timeless wisdom that the Bible gives on dealing with conflict. Join us as we unravel the narrative of Paul and Barnabas, two pillars of the early Christian Church, facing a sharp disagreement. Conflict is an inevitable part of any community, and the Bible offers profound insights on how to navigate these challenges with grace, wisdom, and a commitment to the greater purpose. In Acts 15:36-41, we witness a clash between two respected figures, Paul and Barnabas, each with their own perspective on the mission. Pastor Cole will guide you through the layers of this conflict, drawing parallels to modern-day challenges within our own communities, families, and workplaces. We will learn valuable lessons on communication, resolution, and maintaining unity in the face of differences. Discover practical strategies grounded in biblical principles that will empower you to turn conflict into an opportunity for growth and strengthened relationships. As we explore this biblical narrative, we find inspiration to emulate the humility, understanding, and grace shown by the early Church leaders. Tune in to this episode of Connect and gain valuable insights that will equip you to face conflicts head-on, fostering a spirit of unity and cooperation in every part of your life. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn how to navigate conflicts in a way that glorifies God and strengthens the bonds of community. If you want to support this essential ministry, consider becoming a partner by donating here: Click Here --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cole-phillips2/support

Step into a journey of discovery on this week's episode of the Connect Podcast with Pastor Cole Phillips. We look into Acts 15: 22-35, exploring the rich narrative of the Jerusalem Council and the profound decisions made by the early church. In this engaging episode, Cole reflects on the complexities of decision-making among a community of believers. Drawing inspiration from the Council's handling of disagreements over what it takes to be saved, he uncovers valuable insights that resonate with the challenges faced by Christians today. Tune in as we unravel the principles of unity, grace, and the art of navigating through disagreements within the body of Christ. Pastor Cole shares practical wisdom from Acts 15, emphasizing the importance of embracing diversity while working towards a common purpose. Whether you're a seasoned believer or new to the faith, this episode provides a fresh perspective on building unity and making decisions that reflect God's wisdom. Join us on the Connect Podcast for an inspiring discussion that explores the timeless lessons found in Acts 15:22-35. Get ready to be encouraged, enlightened, and equipped to navigate the complexities of community life with grace and harmony. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cole-phillips2/support

In this episode of the Connect podcast with Cole Phillips, we dive into the fascinating passage of Acts 15:6-21. Join us as we explore the early church's historic council in Jerusalem and the important decisions they made about including Gentile believers. We will unpack the significance of this pivotal moment in the early Christian community and dive into the heated debate around whether Gentile converts should follow Jewish customs and traditions like circumcision and dietary laws. Through careful analysis of the text, Cole highlights the key arguments presented by influential figures like Peter, Paul, and James. Together, they navigate the delicate balance between maintaining unity within the diverse body of believers while respecting cultural differences. As the discussion unfolds, Cole draws parallels to modern challenges faced by the Church. He explores the implications of Acts 15:6-21 for Christians today, encouraging listeners to think about the importance of unity, cultural sensitivity, and our freedom found in Christ. Tune in to this thought-provoking episode of the Connect podcast with Cole Phillips, as he sheds light on Acts 15:6-21 and its relevance for believers navigating the complexities of faith in a diverse world. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cole-phillips2/support

In this captivating episode, we dive into Acts 15:1-5, a pivotal passage that addresses the age-old question of salvation: Is it achieved through works or by faith in Christ alone? Join Dr. Cole Phillips as we explore the historical context and significance of this passage and unpack its implications for our understanding of salvation. Drawing inspiration from the early church's struggle with this question, we embark on a fascinating journey through the vibrant discussions and debates that took place during the Jerusalem Council. This gathering of apostles and elders sought to address the question of whether Gentile believers needed to adhere to Jewish customs for salvation. Through engaging biblical analysis, we will examine the arguments put forth by those advocating for salvation by works. We explore the perspective that adherence to religious rituals, such as circumcision and observance of the Mosaic law, is necessary for salvation. We also delve into the contrasting viewpoint championed by the apostle Paul and others, emphasizing salvation by faith in Jesus Christ alone. We explore the transformative power of grace and the belief that salvation is a free gift, received through faith rather than earned through human effort. Throughout the episode, we address common misconceptions, dispel myths in order to equip listeners with a deeper understanding of the biblical teachings on salvation and encourage them to reflect on their own faith journey. Join us for this thought-provoking episode as we unpack Acts 15:1-5 and explore the profound implications of what it means to be saved by faith in Christ alone. This will enrich our understanding of God's redemptive plan and help us embrace the transformative power of faith. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cole-phillips2/support

Welcome to another inspiring and informative episode of Connect, the podcast that explores the timeless truths found in the Bible and how they relate to our lives today. In this episode, we dive into Acts 14:21-28, where we witness the missionary journey of Paul and Barnabas. Join us as we uncover the incredible perseverance and faith of these early disciples as they spread the Good News to various cities. We'll explore the challenges they faced, the opposition encountered, and the miracles witnessed along the way. Discover how this passage speaks to our own journeys of faith and the importance of staying committed to the mission of sharing the Gospel, even in the face of adversity. We'll explore the lessons we can learn from Paul and Barnabas' example, and how we can apply them to our own lives today. Tune in as we unpack the significance of this passage and explore its relevance to our modern-day context. Whether you're a seasoned believer or new to the faith, this episode will inspire and encourage you to stay steadfast in your own mission to make disciples and spread the love of Christ. So grab your Bible, a notebook, and get ready to be inspired and challenged as we delve into Acts 14:21-28 on this episode of Connect. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cole-phillips2/support