Shows
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: God’s Design For EqualitySend a textIn Luke 10:38–42, Jesus affirmed Mary’s choice to sit at His feet—breaking cultural barriers and showing us that women and men are equal in God’s Kingdom.In this sermon, Pastor Marben Bland reminds us: 1️⃣ Equality begins with invitation—welcoming others as equals. 2️⃣ Equality honors the right to learn—education lifts us all. 3️⃣ Equality corrects cultural distractions—keeping Jesus as the main thing. 4️⃣ Equality means choosing what matters most—the Word of God.Hear stories of Barbara Jordan, Lisa Cook, Mary & Martha, and Marben’s granddaughter all pointing to God’s...
2025-09-0326 min
The Marben Bland Podcast“Win the Morning With GodSend a text“Win the Morning With God”I am Marben Bland, Pastor Of The Greater Bethel AME Church In Athens, Georgia with a Living The Word Moment. Psalm 5:3 says, “In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly.”David reminds us that the way we start our day matters. Before the rush, before the emails, before the noise, he turned his heart toward God. Prayer in the morning isn’t just habit—it’s alignment. It’s saying, “L...
2025-08-2301 min
The Marben Bland PodcastFinding Your Spiritual Why: Lessons From David and BathshebaSend a textI am Marben Bland Pastor of the Greater Bethel AME Church In Athens, Georgia with a Living The Word Moment A spiritual why is the deeper purpose that fuels our faith, keeping us aligned with God’s will even in moments of weakness. King David, a man after God’s own heart (1 Samuel 13:14), lost sight of his spiritual why when he pursued Bathsheba, leading to sin and suffering (2 Samuel 11). His actions brought devastating consequences, but his story didn’t end in failure. In Psalm 51, David repents, seeking God’s mercy and renewal. His retur...
2025-02-2601 min
The Marben Bland PodcastA Faith Worth Fighting ForSend a textIn Pastor Marben Bland’s sermon “A Faith Worth Fighting For,” we’re challenged to actively defend our salvation—as 1 Timothy 6:12 urges us to “fight the good fight of faith.” Pastor Bland reminds us that faith isn’t passive—it demands daily prayer, immersion in God’s word, and a united community. Just as 1 Peter 1:18–19 teaches about Christ’s supreme sacrifice; we’re called to counterpunch life’s distractions with perseverance and passion. Whether you’re deep in the fight or just ready to join, now’s the time to claim your eternal inheritance and sta...
2025-02-2423 min
The Marben Bland PodcastDevotional Fighting The Good Fight Of FaithSend a textI am Marben Bland, Pastor Of Greater Bethel AME Athens with a living the word moment 1 Timothy 6:12 reminds us to “Fight the good fight of the faithSalvation, like our American democracy, is worth fighting for – today both are under attack.We are in a spiritual battle. The enemy seeks to distract, discourage, and deceive us into believing that our salvation isn’t worth the fight.We are also in a political battle. The determination of the Trump Administration to bend the...
2025-02-1801 min
The Marben Bland PodcastGreater Bethel AME Athens: The 2024 Sixth Episcopal District’s “Church of the Year”Send a textThis is Marben Bland, Pastor of The Greater Bethel AME Church in Athens, Georgia with some wonderful news. Greater Bethel has been named as the Sixth Episcopal District’s “Church of the Year” for 2024 by the Sixth Episcopal District Lay Organization.This prestigious recognition celebrates Greater Bethel’s unwavering commitment to faith, community service, and spiritual leadership.In his citation, Bishop Michael Leon Mitchell of the Sixth Episcopal District stated:“This award is a testament to the heart and spirit o...
2025-02-1101 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: DEI: The Boogeyman To Keep White Supremacy, SupremeSend a textIn this powerful sermon, from Pastor Marben Bland, the message is clear—white supremacy creates “boogeymen” to maintain its dominance. DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) has been weaponized as a scapegoat for societal failures, when in reality, it is a path toward justice and fairness. Just as Peter was divinely educated to embrace the Gentiles, we are called to reject false narratives and embrace God’s DEI—Divinely Educated Individuals.Key Points from the Sermon:1️ God created us to prosper – We are meant to thrive, not be...
2025-02-1033 min
The Marben Bland PodcastDEI: The Boogeyman to Keep White Supremacy SupremeSend a textI am Marben Bland Pastor Of Greater Bethel AME Athens With A Living The Word Moment President Trump, asserting without evidence that diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies were a factor in the deadly midair collision between an American Airlines plane and an Army Blackhawk helicopter, is a reminder of a centuries-old tactic. When those who believe in their superiority begin to see it wane, they manufacture a boogeyman.Peter, a disciple of Jesus, was a devout Jew whose faith initially taught him that Gentiles were inferior, and that God w...
2025-02-0401 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon:Sharing the Gospel Through the Baptism of FaithSend a textThis week’s message from Pastor Marben Bland challenged us to embrace faith as both a personal transformation and a mission to share the love of Christ with others.From Luke 3:15-22: John the Baptist reminds us to point others to Jesus, who baptizes us with the Holy Spirit and fire, transforming our hearts and lives. From Luke 18:35-43: The blind man’s faith teaches us to cry out to Jesus, trusting in His power to heal and restore.Faith is more than belief—it’s a...
2025-01-1517 min
The Marben Bland PodcastDevotional:The Baptism Of FaithSend a textI am Marben Bland, Pastor Of Greater Bethel AME Athens with a Living The Word Moment. As John the Baptist baptized multitudes, the people, filled with expectation, wondered if he might be the Messiah. John responded, as recorded in Luke 3:16, saying, "I baptize you with water, but one who is more powerful than I will come... He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit."In Jericho, a blind man sat by the roadside begging. When he heard a crowd passing by, he asked what was happening. They told him, "Jesus o...
2025-01-0801 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: Intentional DiscipleshipSend a textAre you ready to take your faith to the next level? In this week’s sermon, Pastor Marben Bland explores Intentional Discipleship and how you can live out the Great Commission in practical ways. Lead by Matthew 28:19-20 and Luke 2:41-52, we uncover five key actions every disciple of Christ can take:1. Share the Gospel2. Serve as the Hands and Feet of Jesus3. Sustain the Mission Financially4. Enhance Our Church Facilities5. Love and Care for Our Chur...
2025-01-0627 min
The Marben Bland PodcastDevotional:Let There Be Peace on Earth, And Let It Begin with MeSend a textI am Marben Bland, Pastor Of Greater Bethel AME Athens with a living the word moment. Over 400 years before Jesus’ birth, the prophet Isaiah foretold his coming in Isaiah 9:6: “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given… and he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”Jesus was born into a world marked by war and oppression. Bethlehem lay under Roman occupation, and conflict followed Jesus throughout his life. Religious leaders challenged his every move as he healed the sick, raised th...
2024-12-1401 min
The Marben Bland PodcastDevotional: God Is Calling UsSend a textI am Marben Bland, Pastor Of Greater Bethel AME Athens with a living the word moment. The story of the prophet Jonah is a Biblical satire with an irony for our times. Called by God to deliver his word to the wicket in Nineveh. Jonah instead runs away from his call landing on a ship filled angry sailors during a violent storm, then thrown overboard, where he is swallowed by a whale spending three days and nights in its belly. For Jonah the irony and satire is this: des...
2024-11-2301 min
The Marben Bland PodcastDevotional: The TruthSend a textI am Marben Bland, Pastor of Greater Bethel AME – Athens with a living the word moment. New York Times Bestselling Christian Author Bob Phillips wrote “Integrity is the first button on the shirt of character. If you get that button right, the rest of the character buttons will fall into place.” While God’s command not to lie (Exodus 20:16) is listed as the ninth of the ten commandments integrity, operating within the boundaries of fact and truth is the bedrock of a functional society. When the leader of a business, co...
2024-11-1901 min
The Marben Bland PodcastDevotional:The Amazing Grace Of BaptismSend a textI am Marben Bland, Pastor of Greater Bethel AME Athens with a living the word moment. The Presbyterian theologian and professor John Henry Gerstner was asked to baptize a newborn. Days before the event the parents asked for a delay because a white gown especially made for the ceremony had not arrived. Dr. Gerstner asked the mother what the significance of the white gown was. The mother replied, “To symbolize the baby’s innocence.” Dr. Gerstner replied, “If the baby is innocent, then why are we baptizing...
2024-11-0901 min
The Marben Bland PodcastDevotional: What Happens When We Lose?Send a textI am Marben Bland, Pastor Of Greater Bethel AME Athens with a Living The Word Moment The victory was complete and crushing the conquest of the kingdom of Judah by the Babylonians sent God’s people into exile away from home, family, and their way of life. Despite the suffering and separation God was with his people. He ordained Ezekiel as his prophet to live among the rebellious defeated and exiled Jews. In Ezekiel 2:3-7 God lays out his marching orders telling his servant three things that we should...
2024-11-0600 min
The Marben Bland PodcastThere Is Tension In The BoatSend a textIt’s election eve and there is tension in America. In a 25-minute sermon from Mark 4:35-41 Pastor Marben Bland, details the tension felt by the disciples as they were buffered by a storm while Jesus was sleeping in the boat. Key teachings from Mark 4:35-41 that can help us doing these days of tension: 1. Tension is normal it will in some form, or another come into our lives. 2. Jesus is not asleep as we experience tension, all we need is to call out to him. 3. Our faith...
2024-11-0423 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: The Lord will fight for you, and you have only to keep still.”Send a textIn a sermon from Exodus 14:10-14 Pastor Marben Bland teachers what we should do when in staying still while the Lord fights our battles. For More Great Content Go To Marben Bland.com
2024-10-2824 min
The Marben Bland PodcastVoting Is Our Future – God Is our DestinySend a textIn this season of voting, we must exercise the franchise with the same purpose and determination that God impressed on the Israelites as they eat the Passover meal. In a sermon form Exodus 12:11-12 Pastor Marben Bland teaches how God prepares his people for the challenges of freedom with three things in mind, 1) Staying ready, 2) having a sense of urgency, and 3) keeping the Lord in our hand and heart. For More Great Content Go To Marben Bland.com
2024-10-2320 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: Micah 6:8 God’s Requirements For LeadershipSend a textOn October 1st, 2024, James Earl Cater, Jr. the 39th President of the United States celebrated his 100th birthday. No greater evidence of Jimmy Carter’s faith can be found in his 1977 Presidential inaugural address. In the third sentence of the address the new President said: Here before me is the Bible used in the inauguration of our first President, in 1789, and I have just taken the oath of office on the Bible my mother gave me a few years ago, opened to a timeless admonition from th...
2024-10-0716 min
The Marben Bland PodcastJimmy Carter – Meeting The Requirements Of God’s Leadership TestSend a textJimmy Carter – Meeting The Requirements Of God’s Leadership Test I am Marben Bland, Pastor Of Greater Bethel AME Athens, Georgia with a Living The Word Moment. Today, October 1st, 2024, is the 100th Birthday of Jimmy Carter. In his 1977 inaugural address the new President quoted Micah 6:8 declaring that the Lord requires of us to do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with God. As we prepare to vote for our next president let us consider the questions of God’s leadership test from Micah 6:8. Is the leader I am...
2024-10-0101 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: What Is Happening With MenSend a textResearch from the American Institute For Boys and Men reveals that too many boys and men are struggling – at school, at work, and in their families and communities.Something’s not working for boys.In a sermon from Psalm 1:1-6 and Exodus chapter 4, Pastor Marben Bland presents God’s plan for men. For More Great Content Go To Marben Bland.com
2024-09-2432 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: The Wacky Things That Happens When We Love NeighborSend a textIn the Parable Of The Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) Jesus engages in a debate with an expert in the Law about what it means to inherit eternal life. Eternal life is obtained when we love the Lord God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind and your neighbor as yourself.” Jesus illustrates that everyone is our neighbor by telling the story of how the despised Samaritan showed kindness to a Jew who had been robbed and left for dead. In a se...
2024-09-1630 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: He Ready!Send a text“He Ready” is our teaching this week from Exodus 3 and Pastor Marben Bland. In celebration of our new Bishop The Right Reverend Doctor Michael Leon Mitchell and the launch of our Exodus and Numbers Bible Study on Thursday, September 5, 7:00 PM ET we will discover how God does not underestimate us despite how we may underestimate ourselves. For More Great Content Go To Marben Bland.com
2024-09-0222 min
The Marben Bland PodcastDevotional Selecting A LeaderSend a textSelecting A Leader, I am Marben Bland, and this is a Living The Word Moment.Early in person voting in Georgia starts on October 15th, ending on November 1st. So, in a bit more than a month we will be selecting a leader. When God called Moses to lead, he worried that the things he was asked to do were beyond his capabilities. We may have those same feelings when the Lord calls on us to lead. However, we must remember that it is not us that will do t...
2024-08-3101 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: Four BlessingsSend a textGod is in the blessings business, in all things and in all times The Lord is giving us all we need so that we can abound in every good work. While it is true that God’s blessings are too numerous to count, in a sermon recorded on Sunday, August 18, 2024, Pastor Marben Bland focuses on four blessings that we often take for granted but truly have a profound impact on our lives. Key points: The Blessings Of Life Genesis 2:7 says that The Lord God formed us from th...
2024-08-1923 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon:You Are That ManSend a textMisogyny is defined as a hatred of, contempt for, or prejudice against women or girls. It is a form of sexism that can keep women at a lower social status than men, thus maintaining male supremacy. Misogyny has been widely practiced for thousands of years. God dislikes misogyny, evidenced by the misdeeds of David told in 2nd Samuel 11 and 12. While God dislikes misogyny, he loves people who exposes wrongdoing. The Lord sends Nathan the prophet to comfort David. In a sermon delivered on Sunday, August 4, 2024, Pastor Marben Bland provides a four...
2024-08-0534 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: Living Your Life Like A Fountain Not A DrainSend a textJane Fonda, the famed 85 -year-old actor Academy Award winning actor said that life is lived in three acts 0-30, 30-60, 60 and beyond. In a sermon from Philippians 2:1-8 and Matthew 22:36-40, Pastor Marben Bland leads a discussion on how Jesus wants us to live those years. For More Great Content Go To Marben Bland.com
2024-07-2923 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: Hold On To The WheelSend a text“We can’t treat prayer, scripture, worship and giving thanks like a spare tire that we only pull out in an emergency. These things are the steering wheel that you hold on to tightly every day, no matter where you are going.” In a sermon from Psalm 119:18 Pastor Marben Bland discusses how we should open our eyes to the Lord giving us for ways to have a greater connection with God. 1. Spending Quality Time In Prayer 2. Passionately Worshiping God 3. Giving Thanks To God 4. Studying God’s Word ...
2024-07-2224 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: When The Leader CallsSend a textRenowned leadership expert, John C. Maxwell, said it best: “Everything rises and falls on leadership.” Matthew answered the leadership call of Jesus to leave a life of sin as a tax collector to become a disciple and gospel writer. In a sermon from Matthew 9:9-13, Pastor Marben Bland discusses the call of leadership from Jesus as he explains Project 2025 the conversative plan to overall the powers and scope of the Presidency. For More Great Content Go To Marben Bland.com
2024-07-1538 min
The Marben Bland PodcastProject 2025 Explained The PodcastSend a textAt the start of every new presidential administration there are thousands of political appointed jobs that need to be filled. Political appointees hold top positions in the White House and governmental departments. Their jobs are to assist in implementing the President’s agenda. Project 2025 spearheaded by the Heritage Foundation a conversative think tank that has shaped the personnel and policies of Republican administrations since the Reagan presidency. It’s intended to as a buffet of options for the Trump administration or any other Republican presidency as it staffs its administration. In this...
2024-07-1506 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: Lift Him UpSend a textActs 22:15 serves as a reminder that we are to be a truthful witness for Jesus telling everyone of what you have seen and heard of the Lord. In the sermon Lift Him Up! Pastor Marben Bland will discuss how Paul in Act 26, witnessed for Jesus using a four-step model.Paul’s 4 step model for witnessing for Jesus. 1 Talk About Your Present StateIn Acts 26: 4-8 Paul reviews his current situation. He reminds King Agrippa and the assembly of his unquestioned Jewish heritage, God’s Covenant with Abraha...
2024-07-0925 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: What have you been up to since the resurrection of Jesus?Send a textIt has been almost 40 days since the resurrection of Jesus in a sermon from Acts 1:3-11, Pastor Marben Bland discusses and teaches how the passage calls up to spread the gospel of Jesus. Key points: 1) Jesus’ resurrection was real, and all are inheritors of his wonderful gift. (2) Jesus’ atonement was completed, but there would be requirements for us to fully partake of its blessings; and (3) As disciples of Jesus we are responsible to carry the message of His gospel to the world. ...
2024-05-0627 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: Tear The Roof Off The SuckerSend a textIn a teaching from Luke 5:17-26, Pastor Marben Bland tells the story of how great things happen when people of faith work together. For More Great Content Go To Marben Bland.com
2024-04-1537 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: Rise Up Shepherd And FollowSend a textIn a 30-minute Advent sermon from Luke 2:8-20 and Matthew 2:1-12 Pastor Marben Bland teaches about the liberating power of Jesus. Key Points:Jesus came to save us from sin and liberate us from oppression. The image of the shepherd has been prominent in the Bible. In Able the son of Adam and Eve was described in Genesis 4:2 as a keeper of sheep. Woe to the shepherds the faith leaders of Israel who feed themselves without feeding the flock is the warning given in...
2023-12-1133 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: The Love Of ChristSend a textIn this 20-minute sermon from Romans 8:38-39 Pastor Marben Bland teaches about The Love Of ChristKey Points: We live in an uncertain world.The world is uncertain because we as humans are uncertain. God is the certainty in an uncertain world. The certainty of God can be expressed in one word…. Love. Paul In Romans 5:8 says: But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. (Romans 5:8)1 John 4:19 reminds us that We...
2023-11-2819 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: What Happens When The Priest Are CorruptSend a textSermon: What Happens When The Priest Are Corrupt Corruption is defined as dishonest or fraudulent conduct by those in power. Corruption is alive and well in the United States as these resent cases indicate In a sermon from Malachi chapter one, Pastor Marben Bland, extends God’s message about corruption and how to honor him. Key Teaching – 3 Godly Ways To Avoid Corruption1. Stay informed know what God expects from you. And what does the Lord require of you But to do justly...
2023-10-0934 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: The Waters Of Justice: The Biblical Case For Environmental JusticeSend a text A lament is a prayer expressing sorrow, pain, or confusion. In Chapter 5 the prophet Amos calls for the people of the house of Israel to hear a lamentation, a funeral song announcing the death of the nation. In a teaching from Amos 5:21-24 Pastor Marben Bland makes the Biblical Case For Environmental Justice in a teaching entitled: “The Waters Of Justice.”Key Points: Environmental Justice, the right to clean air and water, unpolluted land, and food that nourishers our bodies instead of killing t...
2023-10-0629 min
The Marben Bland PodcastWhat About The WatersSend a textIn Chapter 5 the prophet Amos calls for the people of the house of Israel to hear a lamentation, a funeral song announcing the death of the nation. Israel has died because of the injustices committed by the wealthy and powerful members of the community who take advantage of the poor and the needy.Israel has died because of the worship practices of the people. Who without enthusiasm or energy conduct solemn assemblies with gain and brunt offerings. Israel has died because of decadence, corruption, and disobedience sin...
2023-09-3002 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon The Apostles’ Creed: A Fact Statement Of Faith And WorshipSend a textIn a sermon from Matthew 10:1-4 Pastor Marben Bland teaches about The Apostles’ CreedKey Points: 1. Jesus called is Apostles to be more than followers. 2. Being an Apostle is a difficult honor. 3. We are all called to be an ApostleFor More Great Content Go To Marben Bland.com
2023-09-2731 min
The Marben Bland PodcastDevotional:We Have Been Called To Be An ApostleSend a text To be an apostle is to be an emissary, and ambassador an envoy. In Greek an apostle derives from a word meaning one who is sent off to convey a message, to do a task, to be of service. Realizing that the harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; Jesus prayed to God the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest. The Gospels Matthew, Mark, and Luke each provide accounts of Jesus choosing, praying, anointing, and charging The 12 to be His Apostles. In Luke (Luke 6:12-13) Je...
2023-09-2402 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: Lord Forgive UsSend a textSermon: Lord Forgive UsIn a teaching from Genesis 50: 1-22 Pastor Marben Bland talks about the benefits of forgiveness. Key sermon point: When we exercise forgiveness, we Receive God’s Blessing “Blessed are those who hear the word of God and obey it.” Luke 11:28. When we exercise forgiveness, we are living out God’s plan and blessings for our lives. When we exercise forgiveness, we Live In The Present “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. Isaiah 43...
2023-09-1829 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: Is There An Afterlife?Send a textThe saints in the early church had questions regarding life after death. In the fifth teaching in the Six Fundamental Questions Our Faith sermon series Pastor Marben Bland, presents Paul’s answer about an afterlife from 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18. Key Teaching Points: 1. As Christians unlike the rest of the world we have hope regarding death. Brothers and sisters, we want you to know about those who have died. We don’t want you to be sad like other people—those who have no hope. (1st...
2023-09-0422 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: How Do We Build The Beloved Community?Send a textIn the third sermon from the Six Question Sermon Series, Pastor Marben Bland, discusses how God wants us to build what is called the beloved community. Key Points From The Message Based On Romans 14:10-23 1. Paul Tells Us To Stop Judging Each Other – Because God Is The Only Judge 10 So why do you judge your brother? Or why do you despise your brother? For we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ. 2. Paul reminds us that: ...
2023-08-2128 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: What does it mean to live a meaningful life?Send a textIn the second of six sermons answering the fundamental questions about our faith Marben Bland, gives God’s answer to the question: “What Does It Mean To Live A Meaningful Life?” Teaching from the Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) Pastor Marben makes these key points: 1. Living a meaningful life must be done with intention. Living a meaningful life requires work. James 2:14 tells us faith without work is dead. Living a meaningful life means like the Samaritan who rescued the man who was attacked we must back up our faith with real acti...
2023-08-1325 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: Who Is God?Send a textIn the first of six part sermon series addressing the critical questions of our faith Pastor Marben Bland, provides answers to the question, “Who Is God?”For More Great Content Go To Marben Bland.com
2023-08-0722 min
The Marben Bland PodcastDevotional: The Question Is Who Is God?Send a textEl Shaddai, YHWH, The Great I am. These are three of the many names we have called God. While we have many names for God, the questions for many is who is God? From its very beginning in Genesis 1:1, the Bible never attempts to prove the existence of God; rather, it assumes His existence. However, what the Bible does reveal is the nature, character, and work of God.Scripture tells us that God’s nature is that God is One, but He exists as three Persons: God the Father, God the Son...
2023-08-0102 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: Joseph’s NovellaSend a textThe novella which is the story of Joseph detailed in Genesis 37-52 is a demonstration of God’s preservation of the Jewish people. In a teaching from Genesis 37-52, Pastor Marben Bland tells the story of Joseph as we consider six fundamental questions about our faith. For More Great Content Go To Marben Bland.com
2023-07-2436 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: A Holy Land Reflection – It Is More Complicated Than We Know.Send a textA pilgrimage is a journey, often into an unknown or foreign place. It is where a person goes in search of a new or expanded meaning about their self, others, nature, or a higher good through the experience. In a message from Isaiah 56:7-8, Pastor Marben Bland, talks about his pilgrimage to the Israel in a teaching entailed A Holy Land Reflection – It Is More Complicated Than We Know.For More Great Content Go To Marben Bland.com
2023-07-1029 min
The Marben Bland PodcastA Holy Land Reflection: Jerusalem – The City Of EverythingSend a textHoly Land ReflectionsA pilgrimage has been described as a journey, often into an unknown or foreign place. It is where a person goes in search of a new or expanded meaning about their self, others, nature, or a higher good through the experience. Sometimes a pilgrimage can led to a personal transformation, after which the pilgrim returns to their daily life. Changed not necessarily in dramatic ways but nevertheless changed. I am Marben Bland, a pastor and multimedia storyteller of Jesus. These are my daily reflections of my se...
2023-06-2804 min
The Marben Bland PodcastDevotional: Profound ImpactSend a textDeath is the great equalizer of life. Regardless of position, power, or prowess death is our destiny. This month three men two you may know one you may not have died. Jim Brown, Tim Keller, and Lovett Brown are the men. They profoundly impacted my life in ways big and small. For me Jim Brown who died last Friday was more that one of the greatest players in pro football history, he was an icon. An icon who became a Hollywood action hero, an icon who used his fame and wealth...
2023-05-2302 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: Peace Be With YouSend a textJesus had been crucified and now his disciples who denied him and scattered have reassembled in fear. Although the doors were shut, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you.” Like the disciples we live in lock doors of isolation, disappointment, and fear. In a teaching from John 20:19-29, Pastor Marben Bland explores God’s plan to open the lock doors of our lives. Lock doors that hinder our relationships, our progresses our health and our peace. For More Great Content Go To Marben Bland.com
2023-04-1722 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: Greetings Jesus Has RisenSend a textIn the first sermon in the series the 7 next words of Jesus. Pastor Marben explores the greetings of the risen savior from Matthew 28: 1-10. And the new start He gives to us all. For More Great Content Go To Marben Bland.com
2023-04-1015 min
The Marben Bland PodcastTraveling Toward The Violence - A Palm Sunday SermonSend a textMatthew 21 tells us that when Jesus entered Jerusalem the whole city was in turmoil. Jesus knew what he was traveling into. He knew that he was traveling toward violence. For the peace of that day with joyful shouts of Hosanna would soon be replaced with shouts of crucify him! As Jesus would be arrested, beaten, and hung on the cross. In his Palm Sunday message Pastor Marben teachers from Matthew 20:34 and Matthew 21:1-11 providing a clearer picture of Jesus. For More Great Content Go To Marben Bland.com
2023-04-0428 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: Why Not The Best?Send a textWhen God gave us Jesus, he gave us his best. When Jesus gave us wine, or bread or Godly wisdom in a parable he gave us his best. So, the question is are we giving God our best? In a sermon from John chapter 2:1-11, Pastor Marben Bland takes us on a Biblical journey showing us the Godly traits for giving God our best. For More Great Content Go To Marben Bland.com
2023-03-1827 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: In The Heat Of The Night: The Backstory Of John 3:16Send a textJohn 3:16 is deemed one of the most popular verses from the Bible. It is a summary of one of Christianity's central doctrines; the relationship between the Father (God) and the Son of God (Jesus). John 3:13 – You see it everywhere, on billboards, folks hold it up on signs during sporting events so it can be caught on TV. It’s displayed on T-shirts; some people have even tattooed it to their bodies. John 3:16 a lot of people know it, a lot of people can say it, but how many people know the story behind this popula...
2023-03-0617 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: The Highs & Lows Of LifeSend a textThe author of Psalm 27 knows the highs and lows of life. In response the Psalmist makes a dramatic, definitive, and declarative statement then answers a question about the status of his life: “The LORD is my light and my salvation is the statement. And the Psalmist answers his question by saying whom shall I fear?” In a sermon recorded live at Greater Bethel in Athens, on January 22, 2023 Pastor Marben Bland addresses the highs and lows of life from a Biblical perspective. For More Great Content Go To Marben Bland.com
2023-01-2426 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: The Whitewashing Of Martin Luther King, Jr.Send a textOver a half a century after his death Martin Luther King, Jr. is now a figure of history. His life and work known primarily in speeches and a holiday that portrays King as a happy warrior marching, singing, and yes making those speeches. The reality is in his lifetime King was a deeply divisive person in American society. Martin Luther King Junior was a radical. He believed that America needed a “radical redistribution of economic and political power.” He challenged America’s class system and its racial caste system. He was a str...
2023-01-1627 min
The Marben Bland PodcastPodcast: Phyllis Tufts Hightower: Ten Keys To Avoid Debt: The Devils Evil Borrowing TrapSend a textHandling money better is always one of the top New Year’s resolutions. As we kick off 2023 Phyllis Tufts Hightower, author of the new book Ten Keys To Avoid Debt: The Devils Evil Borrowing Trap, joins Marben Bland to talk about money, debt and Gray, Georgia where they both grew up. For More Great Content Go To Marben Bland.com
2023-01-1132 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon:Jesus Is A Migrant TooSend a textAs migrants surge to the United States southern border the debate rages about what to do with people who flee their own country because they have a dream to come this county for better days. Shortly after his birth Jesus became a migrant fleeing his own country following a dream form the Lord. In a sermon recorded January 8, 2023, Pastor Marben Bland, gives a Biblical perspective on the immigration debate in a sermon teaching from Matthew 2:13-15 entitled “Jesus Is A Migrant Too.”For More Great Content Go To Marben...
2023-01-1021 min
The Marben Bland PodcastPodcast: In The NewsSend a textCharles E. Richardson and Marben Bland discuss the news of the day including the Georgia Runoff, The Mid Term Election and Coach Prime moving on up. For More Great Content Go To Marben Bland.com
2022-12-101h 08
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: Hope In A Time Of DisruptionSend a textA disruption is defined as something which interrupt an event, an activity, or a process. The birth of Jesus is the biggest blessing and the biggest divine disruption the world has ever known. Jesus the divine Son of God became human, born in the humblest conditions a manager because there was no room at the inn. Teaching God’s New Covenant to a skeptical population and to even more skeptical disciples. Dealing with the Pharisees and teachers of religious law who were so fearful of the Gospel that they conspired to h...
2022-11-2827 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: Will He Eat With Us?Send a textDuring our seven-week Bible Study at Greater Bethel, we have been looking at the parables of Luke 15, with special emphasis on the Parable of the two lost sons, known most widely as the Parable Of The Prodigal Son. In the final sermon of the series Pastor Marben Bland, set the Thanksgiving table by proposing the critical question asked in the parable: “Will he eat with us?” For seven weeks from early October to mid-November of 2022, we studied the parables of Jesus from Luke 15. For More Great Content Go To M...
2022-11-2129 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: He Knows My NameSend a textBlack Americans are disproportionately affected by dementia. Older black Americans are twice as likely as older whites to have Alzheimer's or another dementia. Among Black Americans ages 70 and older, 21.3% are living with Alzheimer's or another dementia. Alzheimer's and Dementia strips away the cognitive functioning of thinking, remembering, and reasoning. It interferes with daily life activities rendering people unable to control their emotions, making many incapables of remembering their own names. As the AME Church brings attention to Alzheimer's and Dementia, Pastor Marben Bland, uses the words of Psalm 139 for us to r...
2022-11-1524 min
The Marben Bland PodcastBible Study Chapter Three—Redefining SinSend a textTimothy Keller, author of The Prodigal God says most of us define sin as breaking a list of rules. Jesus shows us that a man who keeps the moral codes can be just as spiritually lost as the most vile and immoral person because sin is not just breaking the rules but putting yourself in the place of God as Savior, Lord, and Judge. Join The Reverends Janice Casey and Marben Bland for a discussion of sin and how Jesus redefines in a discussion of chapter 3 of T...
2022-10-1919 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: The Parable Of The Lost Coin An Economic OdysseySend a textIn a sermon recorded at Greater Bethel, African Methodist Episcopal Church in Athens, Georgia, Pastor Marben Bland teachers about the three types of people following Jesus and how He tells them about the true nature of God in The Parable of The Lost Coin. (Luke 15:1-3, 8-10)For More Great Content Go To Marben Bland.com
2022-10-1737 min
The Marben Bland PodcastBible Study The Prodigal God: Chapter 2 The Two Lost SonsSend a textTimothy Keller the author of the Prodigal God says that Jesus’s parable about the Prodigal Son might best be named the Parable of the Two Lost Sons. It is a drama in two acts, with Act 1 entitled “The Lost Younger Brother” and Act 2 “The Lost Elder Brother.” Janice Casey and Marben Bland discuss. Download the Bible Study https://marbenbland.com/the-prodigal-god For More Great Content Go To Marben Bland.com
2022-10-1344 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: The Value Of One LambSend a textIn a sermon delivered on October 9, 2022 Pastor Marben discusses the power of God's love especially for the lost as told to us by Jesus in the Parable Of The Lost Sheep. Sermon Highlights: Jesus knew the value of one lamb, that is why when the Pharisees and the teachers of the law muttered, “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.” He told them a parable about a lamb. As you know Jesus often spoke in parables and what is a parable? It is a simple story convey a moral p...
2022-10-1035 min
The Marben Bland PodcastBible Study: The Prodigal God: Introduction And Chapter OneSend a textJoin Janice Rhodes Casey and Marben Bland for a discussion of the introduction and chapter one of The Prodigal God by Timothy Keller. Go to https://marbenbland.com/the-prodigal-god to download the Bible Study and to discover how join us for the weekly live discussion. For More Great Content Go To Marben Bland.com
2022-10-0332 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: Fighting The Good Fight Of FaithSend a textIn a sermon delivered on Sunday, September 24, 2022, at Greater Bethel AME in Athens, Georgia Pastor Marben Bland teachers about the priceless mentoring advice given in First Timothy chapter 6 verses 11-15. The advice sands the test of time. The advice is good for us to know. And the advice is good for us to use for we all need mentorship in this Christian journey. For More Great Content Go To Marben Bland.com
2022-09-2641 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: The Myth About The Peace Of JesusSend a textDr. King said, True Peace Is Not Merely the Absence of Tension. It Is the Presence of Justice.While we may not like it Jesus is telling us that the conflict, the tension the difficulty must happen. Click on this link to listen to Pastor Marben sermon from Luke 12:49 entailed “The Myth Of The Peace Of Jesus For More Great Content Go To Marben Bland.com
2022-08-2326 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: The Parable Of The Rich FoolSend a textWatch out! Guard yourself against all kinds of greed. It is the command of Jesus’s and the main point of the parable of the Rich Fool from Luke 12:13-21.In a 24-minute sermon Pastor Marben, tells how Jesus wants us to avoid foolish behavior and greed that will separate us from the kingdom of God. For More Great Content Go To Marben Bland.com
2022-07-1824 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: Teach Me How To PraySend a textIn an ambitious 33-minute sermon from Luke 11:1-4 Pastor Marben talk about prayer by broaching three subjects first revealing what is God telling us about prayer, worship and service as we study the Lord’s prayer. Second an exploration of the state of prayer in the 21st Century. And finally, how to pray like Jesus incorporating 5 types of prayer that Jesus used. Recorded: July 10, 2022 – Greater Bethel Athens, Georgia For More Great Content Go To Marben Bland.com
2022-07-1133 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: The One Thing Worth Being Concerned About?Send a textIn a teaching from Luke 10:38-42 Pastor Marben tells the story of how Jesus recognized that Mary had found the one thing worth being concerned about.For More Great Content Go To Marben Bland.com
2022-07-0426 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: The Redemptive Journey From Bondage To FreedomSend a textIn a celebration of Juneteenth and Father’s Day, Pastor Marben Bland invokes God’s covenant of protection, guidance, and love from Isaiah 49:8 in a sermon entitled: “The Redemptive Journey From Bondage To Freedom. For More Great Content Go To Marben Bland.com
2022-06-2028 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: “To Be Young, Gifted and Black”Send a textThe Song “To Be Young, Gifted and Black” was written by Nia Simone and her bandleader Irvine Weldon as an homage to Lorraine Hansberry, the “A Raisin in the Sun” playwright after her death in 1965. In Matthew 19:13-15 Jesus pays homage to the young and gifted when he says “Let the children come to me. Don’t stop them! For the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to those who are like these children.” Pastor Marben in the third Black History Month sermons shares the teachings of Jesus about children and highlights the accomplishments of Olympic gold...
2022-02-2331 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: "Why Are They Uncomfortable?"Send a text"Why Are They Uncomfortable?" is the second sermon of Pastor Marben Bland’s Black History Month Sermon Series. Teaching from Luke 4:14-30 Pastor Marben talks about how God’s word can make us feel uncomfortable, along with the comfort that God’s truths can bring to all of us. (Recorded: February 13, 2022)For More Great Content Go To Marben Bland.com
2022-02-1427 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: Why We Study Black HistorySend a textPastor Marben answers the question; Why We Study Black History by looking at John 1:43-46 and sharing how the rejection of Jesus can give us motivation in telling our history. For More Great Content Go To Marben Bland.com
2022-02-1233 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: Acceptable ActsSend a textlisten to Pastor Marben's teaching from Psalm 19 about the power of God can lead us to a lifetime of us performing acceptable acts. The sermon features a tribute to Tuskegee Airmen, General Charles E. McGee. Recorded January 23, 2020For More Great Content Go To Marben Bland.com
2022-01-2432 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: The Whitewashing Of Martin Luther King, Jr.Send a textOn the eve of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Pastor Marben teachers from Amos 5:21-24 about how God disapproves of the reframing of facts and events to suit the beliefs of those in power. He uses the same logic from the Word of God to contend that the present-day whitewashing of events like the attack on the US Capital is equal to the reframing of the life of Dr. King to that of a happy man who went about marching and making speeches. Instead of viewing Dr. King as people viewed Jesus, as a ra...
2022-01-1726 min
The Marben Bland PodcastIn The News With Charles Richardson - January 2022Send a textIn a podcast recorded on January 11th at Panera Bread in Macon, Georgia Charles and Marben discuss topics from the news including the National Championship football game won by the University of Georgia, voting rights, and the late actor Sidney Poitier For More Great Content Go To Marben Bland.com
2022-01-1547 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon:Goliath Must FallSend a textIn a sermon recorded live on Sunday, January 2nd at Greater Saint Peter, Pastor Marben teaches from 1st Samuel17:3-11. As he talks about the giants in our lives and how with faith in God they can be defeated. For More Great Content Go To Marben Bland.com
2022-01-0533 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: Jesus Is MissingSend a textMary, Joseph, and twelve-year-old Jesus traveled from their home in Nazareth to attend the Passover festival in Jerusalem. Find out what happens when Jesus does not return home in Pastor Marben’s sermon teaching recorded live at GSP entitled. “Jesus Is Missing.” For More Great Content Go To Marben Bland.com
2021-12-2829 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: No Justice No PeaceSend a textIn a sermon recorded live at Greater Saint Peter African Methodist Episcopal Church in Jonesboro, Georgia, Pastor Marben Bland teaches from Malachi 3:15 about the peace of Jesus which will bring justice. For More Great Content Go To Marben Bland.com
2021-12-1027 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: A Conversation With JesusSend a textIn a sermon recorded live at New Bethel in East Dublin, Georgia Marben inspired by Mark 10:46-52 discovers how a conversation with Jesus changed the life of a blind man named Bartimaeus and how your conversation with Jesus will also change your life. For More Great Content Go To Marben Bland.com
2021-10-2527 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: We are the sheep of God’s pastureSend a textIn celebration of our 152 anniversary, Pastor Marben discusses the promises of Psalm 100. Reminding us that we are God’s sheep and for 152 years New Bethel has been a pasture for God’s sheep. For More Great Content Go To Marben Bland.com
2021-10-1124 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: Go Tell ItSend a textIn a world where we share everything from selfies to pictures of our food the question must be asked, are you sharing Jesus? In a sermon recorded live at New Bethel, Pastor Marben explores the call of Jesus for us to share the Gospel in a sermon from Matthew 28:16-20, entitled Go Tell It. For More Great Content Go To Marben Bland.com
2021-10-0427 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: Running With JesusSend a text“…. A truly abundant life is not measured in possessions, or money, or status. An abundant life is measured in faith and faith can’t be with us when we run with the weight of sin in our lives.” In a sermon recorded live at New Bethel, Pastor Marben explores the example that Jesus has set as we run the race of our lives in a sermon from Hebrews 12:1-2 entitled Running With Jesus. For More Great Content Go To Marben Bland.com
2021-09-2725 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: What Does God WantSend a textIn a sermon recorded live at New Bethel Pastor, Marben in a teaching from James explorers how we can live knowing what God wants.For More Great Content Go To Marben Bland.com
2021-09-2324 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: The Perfect Laws Of The LordSend a textYou know there has been a lot of talk about laws in the news these days. There is talk about laws mandating either the vaccine or masks. There is talk about the voting law passed in Georgia. And regardless of where you stand on the abortion issue, there is talk about the Texas abortion law. Laws created by man are imperfect and filled with unintended consequences and yes laws can be flat-out wrong. In a sermon recorded live at New Bethel. Pasto...
2021-09-1428 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: Gathering With JesusSend a textIn a teaching from Matthew 18:20, delivered on September 5th, 2021, for Homecoming at Wesley Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church. Pastor Marben pays tribute to retiring Pastor Gloria Wicker as he preaches about how God wants to be in us as two or three of us gather in this pandemic-driven homecoming. For More Great Content Go To Marben Bland.com
2021-09-0416 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: “As for me and my household, we will serve the LORD.”Send a textIn a sermon recorded live at New Bethel, Pastor Marben examines the fundamental question raised in Joshua 24:15, where do you and your household stand with the Lord?For More Great Content Go To Marben Bland.com
2021-08-2318 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: The Temptation Of A Seersucker SuitSend a textGenesis 3 tells the story of not only the successful temptation of Eve and Adam, but of the aftermath. In a sermon recorded live at New Bethel, Pastor Marben explores how God wants us to deal with the aftermath of temptation, by telling us about his temptation with a Seersucker Suit. For More Great Content Go To Marben Bland.com
2021-08-1630 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: I will bless the Lord alwaysSend a textRecorded live at New Bethel, Pastor Marben explores Psalm 34 and what it means to bless the Lord always. For More Great Content Go To Marben Bland.com
2021-08-0925 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: Living A Life Worthy Of Your CallingSend a textAfter 17 months of being apart, New Bethel returns in-person worship. In a sermon recorded live Pastor Marben Bland, explores Ephesians chapter 4 verses 1-7 as he raises and answers the question of how we can live a life worthy of our calling. For More Great Content Go To Marben Bland.com
2021-08-0224 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon The Battle Is Not YoursSend a textIn this sermon from Romans 8:12-17, Pastor Marben poses the question if Superman were your friend and he offered to fight your battles for you would you let him? He then answered God our friend and God is our Superman, and he will fight our battles if we let him. For More Great Content Go To Marben Bland.com
2021-05-3018 min
The Marben Bland PodcastSermon: What Can The Holy Spirit Do For You?Send a textIn this Pentecost Sermon from May 23, 2021, Pastor Marben reveals how the Holy Spirit can equip, empower and inspire. In a teaching from Acts 2:1-21 For More Great Content Go To Marben Bland.com
2021-05-2322 min
The Marben Bland PodcastThe Georgia Election LawSend a textIn late March Georgia Governor Brian Kemp signed a law overhauling the way our state runs its elections. The effect of the new law on Georgia's 7.4 million voters will be mixed. But one thing is certain the law has stirred a nationwide debate over voting rights. Today on The Podcast, Pastor Marben is joined by Adrick Ingram, The Corner in Hancock County Georgia, Janice Davis, an election expert, and voting precinct manager in Bibb County, Georgia and Kathy Adams, immediate past President of Democratic Women of Georgia, a group committed to electing women to off...
2021-05-1444 min
The Marben Bland PodcastThe Chauvin VerdictSend a textOn April 21stformer Minneapolis Police officer Derek Chauvin was convicted on all charges in the death of George Floyd. Today on The Podcast, Marben Bland is joined for a discussion of the verdict and law enforcement by State Representative Derrick Jackson, candidate for Lt. Governor of Georgia, Charlie Bailey, candidate for Attorney General of Georgia and Governor Henderson, Author Southern Justice: Broken In Every Way: A road to no end. Special thanks to Kathy Adams for her help in bringing this outstanding panel together. For More Great Content Go To Marbe...
2021-05-1343 min
The Marben Bland PodcastIt’s A Matter Of Your Health The Podcast @ www.drblandradio.comSend a textIt’s A Matter Of Your Health The Podcast @ www.drblandradio.comHi this is Marben Bland, and if you are like me, I am always concerned about my health and ways to get healthier. Well, let me tell you about a new podcast that you might like. It is called It’s A Matter Of Your Health. My sister Dr. Veita Bland has been a primary care physician for over 40 years, and for nearly 20 years she has hosted a local radio show, in Greensboro, North Carolina. Now that show is a 30...
2021-05-1301 min