Welcome to another episode of the Community Church of Talmadge podcast, where we remind each other that God's Word—and every single one of us—truly matter. In this heartfelt message, guest Dave Jackson and our host Sheila Hershberger reflect on the difficulties our nation has faced over the past week, delving into struggles, grief, and the emotional toll of recent tragic events. Sheila opens up about the challenge of holding on to faith and compassion when faced with a world so full of hatred and evil, reminding us that while Jesus called us to love and show compassion, he never told us to condone what is wrong.

As the conversation unfolds, we'll hear honest discussion about standing firm in Biblical truth, the importance of accountability—both in our actions and our words—and why now, more than ever, it's time to unite as a community grounded in faith. Whether you're joining us in person in Talmadge, Ohio, or listening online, this episode is a rallying call to hold tight to truth, compassion, and courage amidst uncertainty. So, take a deep breath, open your heart, and let’s find strength in God’s promises, together.

Today guest speaker Dave Jackson (Head of Church outreach) provides the lesson "Preaching to the Choir."

Scripture

1 Peter 3:13-16

John 21:15-17

ISAIAH 55:10-11

Mentioned

Yuri Bezmenov Video

Time Blindness Video

Always be prepared to give an answer

It will not return to me empty,

The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. 6He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. 7Then go quickly and tell his disciples: ‘He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.’ Now I have told you.”8So the women hurried away from the tomb, afraid yet filled with joy, and ran to tell his disciples. 9Suddenly Jesus met them. “Greetings,”he said. They came to him, clasped his feet and worshiped him. 10Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid. Go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me.”The Guards’ Report11While the women were on their way, some of the guards went into the city and reported to the chief priests everything that had happened. 12When the chief priests had met with the elders and devised a plan, they gave the soldiers a large sum of money, 13telling them, “You are to say, ‘His disciples came during the night and stole him away while we were asleep.’ 14If this report gets to the governor, we will satisfy him and keep you out of trouble.” 15So the soldiers took the money and did as they were instructed. And this story has been widely circulated among the Jews to this very day.