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Samuel Somesan

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Koinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesTaylor Lecture Spring 2025This is a special episode where Sam Somesan delivers a lecture at Taylor University on the topic of informative speech preparation and sermon construction. 2025-04-1651 minKoinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesGalatians 5:1-6, 13-15Galatians 5:1-6, 13-15: The Best People in Life Are Free by Sam Somesan2023-12-271h 14Koinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesGalatians 3:1-14Galatians 3:1-14: How to Stay a Member of the Family by Sam Somesan2023-12-271h 03Koinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesGalatians 2:15-21Galatians 2:15-21—You’re Not Enough, but You Are Loved by Sam Somesan 2023-12-071h 03Koinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesGalatians 1:6-10Galatians 1:6-10: Remaining in the Promised Land by Sam Somesan 2023-12-071h 10Koinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesKoinonia, Stand Firm!Sam Somesan delivers a call for unity within the body2023-10-131h 11Koinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesRomans 10Gentiles who did not seek God have received righteousness unlike the Jews because the Jews sought God by works of the law and not by faith in Christ. While their legalistic efforts may be zealous, they missed that Jesus is the culmination of that law. God has made His revelation in Christ accessible. Man must simply respond by believing and professing the Gospel. Since belief/profession is the path to salvation, this is open to anyone who asks God for it. If we are to ask, then we must know that the Gospel exists which God has made to...2022-05-0256 minKoinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesRomans 9Paul is deeply sorrowed by the unbelief of his Jewish brothers who had received such great revelation from God. This calls into question if God’s promises will finally be true for national Israel since they have not believed the Gospel. Paul, in turn, argues that salvation was never about race, but grace (Wright). If it is not about race nor any intrinsic human factor, then it can only be based on God’s sovereign choice. Appealing to Scripture first, Paul shows that God has the right to dispense mercy to salvation and hardening to those already in damnation as H...2022-04-241h 06Koinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesRomans 8The Christian is free from condemnation, law, and the power of sin due to the freeing power of Christ mediated to us by the Spirit orchestrated by the Father. Whereas in the flesh we were destined for death, the new mind and deeds of the Spirit has charted a course of eternal life. In this eternal life, we have become children of God, united with Christ, ready to receive our inheritance from God. While suffering persists today, creation itself longs for total redemption as we also do. This hope is coming, yet today our weakness is strengthened as the...2022-04-241h 02Koinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesRomans 7Christians, by virtue of their dying with Christ, are set free from the law. The law produces sinful desires leading to death. The only way to break this captivity to sin through the law is by the Spirit, previewing chapter 8. The law is not sinful, but sin becomes more defined and powerful with the coming of the law. The law does offer a path to life, which sin uses the law to trick people into works righteousness when all it could ever do was point us to Christ. When someone attempts to do what the law says, they suddenly...2022-04-111h 08Koinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesRomans 6Paul emphatically denies that we should sin in order to bring more grace. Instead, Paul argues that by virtue of our forensic union with Christ, we have died to the sin which characterized our corporate identification in Adam. Living in and waiting for the resurrection hope, Christ inaugurated the age to come where life to the glory of God has conquered sin and death. Reckoning this to be spiritually true, we must not let sin dominate our mortal, physical existence. As grace reigns in this inaugurated age to come, we see that our enslavement to sin leading to death...2022-04-021h 02Koinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesRomans 5Now that we have been justified by faith, we can also take hope of the glorious future we have in Christ. Whenever we fall into suffering times, our hope grows as we are transformed. This hope is sure because of the love of God which we experience in both a subjective way and an objective way. This objective demonstration of God’s love by dying on the cross justifies, reconciles, and causes us to rejoice in God. The basis of this hope is that, while every individual human is born in corporate solidarity with Adam, humans can receive the fr...2022-03-271h 06Koinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesRomans 4Seeking to demonstrate his third chapter claims to be true, Paul argues that Abraham was justified not by works but by faith. Forgiveness then is not a debt of God’s to be paid but purely of His grace. The external rite of circumcision also does not save since Abraham was declared righteous prior to being circumcised. As such, Abraham is Father of both the circumcised and uncircumcised that have faith. The promise made to Abraham cannot be on the basis of law lest faith become meaningless, and the promise fail entirely since no one can keep the law. Th...2022-03-2159 minKoinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesRomans 3Continuing the thought of chapter two, Paul shows that while the Jews do have genuine advantages by nature of their Jewishness, they were not faithful to God. God is, however, faithful nevertheless which means that he can and must judge Jewish sin as He does gentile sin. Paul shows that the Old Testament supports his claims regarding human depravity. From not desiring God to hurtful speech and act against fellow humans, every individual is guilty before God and cannot work his way to God by the law. God provided a new covenant of salvation for all mankind through faith...2022-03-181h 00Koinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesRomans 2The sinner appearing as highly moral, who hypocritically does the same sins as the sinner who appears highly immoral, is still subject to God’s judgement. It does not matter who you are—Jew or Gentile—God sees your righteousness or unrighteousness as it flows from your faith or lack thereof and will judge accordingly. While Jews have the written law to be judged by, Gentiles also have a sense of law written on their hearts which is enforced by the power of the conscience. The written Law has no value if you do not keep the Law. Circumcision has no...2022-03-1858 minKoinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesRomans 1Paul was specifically and specially called to carry the Gospel about Jesus to the nations which was Paul’s eager duty. He longed to strengthen and be strengthened by people God had called to salvation which he had never met. Paul shows us that the point of this epistle is the good news of the Gospel, but that good news must start with the bad news. That bad news is that mankind loves sin more than God, and God let man choose his own way. Mankind’s way involves idolatry which results in grave sexual and social sins. Though thes...2022-02-241h 03Koinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesColossians 4:7-18The Ragtag Dream Team2022-02-191h 00Koinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesColossians 4:2-6Christian Speech2022-02-1936 minKoinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesColossians 3:22 - 4:1Christianity and Slavery2022-02-191h 07Koinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesColossians 3:20-21In this challenging lesson, we addressed what it means for children to obey their parents while also providing some practical ideas for how parents can avoid frustrating their children. 2022-01-301h 06Koinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesColossians 3:18-19..."The Intimate Marriage" Sub-Series (6)Sex and Marriage2021-11-281h 14Koinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesColossians 3:18-19..."The Intimate Marriage" Sub-Series (5)The Headship Role of the Godly Man Pt. 22021-11-181h 05Koinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesColossians 3:18-19..."The Intimate Marriage" Sub-Series (4)The Headship Role of the Godly Man2021-11-111h 00Koinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesColossians 3:18-19..."The Intimate Marriage" Sub-Series (3)The Complementary Role of Godly Wife Pt. 22021-11-111h 02Koinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesColossians 3:18-19..."The Intimate Marriage" Sub-Series (2)The Complementary Role of The Godly Wife2021-10-311h 04Koinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesColossians 3:18-19..."The Intimate Marriage" Sub-Series (1)The Intimate Marriage: The Role of Nudity and Nakedness (both physical and emotional/spiritual) within the confines of the marital relationship 2021-10-1257 minKoinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesColossians 3:15-17General Fashion Tips for Our New Clothes2021-10-091h 01Koinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesColossians 3:12-14Putting on the New Man Part 22021-10-091h 00Koinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesColossians 3:9b-11Putting on the New Man2021-10-0952 minKoinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesColossians 3:5-9aThe Put Off List of Paul2021-10-091h 00Koinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesColossians 3 Entertainment OverviewUsing an approach based on the liberty we have in Christ, this lesson challenges what precisely are appropriate entertainment standards for a Christian in context of Paul's ethical lists in Colossians chapter 3. 2021-09-1257 minKoinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesColossians 3:3-4If Paul has describing Christians by Who they desire, in this lesson, we see how he describes Christians by who they are. Instead of Paul just saying that we have been given a new set of desires, he makes sure to let us know that we are entirely different in our very essence. We are not who we once were. Instead of talking about our Holy Affections, in this lesson, we discuss our Holy Identify.2021-08-2441 minKoinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesColossians 3:1-2 (Part 2)When our affections are set on God—not merely on the gifts that come from God—pursuing that relational happiness is not selfish or mercenary because it is the final and highest stage of what it means to enter relationship with him.2021-08-2457 minKoinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesColossians 3:1-2 (Part 1)True religion is found only in true relationship with Christ. True relationship with Christ possesses real love and joy. “True religion, in great part, consists in holy affections.”2021-08-0954 minKoinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesColossians 2:18-19Not Mysticism, but Christ!  In this lesson, you will hear how esoteric, mystical experiences are in no way spiritually superior to genuine, heart level obedience. Those who attempt to use visionary experiences, false pretenses of humility, heavenly intermediaries apart from Christ, etc. as a way to show a spiritual superiority demonstrate that they have lost connection with the only true source of spiritual growth, fullness, and satisfaction--Christ!2021-07-2657 minKoinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesColossians 2:16-17Not Legalism, But Christ Legalism, which is any action done with the intension of meriting God’s grace, (which is also not to be confused with legitimate, heartfelt, holy obedience) is never the solution to stopping our flesh. Codifying man-made rules in addition to God's immutable law is never the solution.  It is only the power of Christ changing the heart which produces true worship. Sola Scriptura! 2021-07-1358 minKoinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesColossians 2:13-15Full Forgiveness in Christ: You, God, and Satan God has wiped the ledger of our spiritual debt clean and nailed it to the cross. What you can't forget, God can't remember!2021-07-1356 minKoinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesColossians 2:10-12 2021-06-261h 05Koinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesColossians 2:8-9Athens or Jerusalem? The Academy or the Church? Christ or Human Philosophy? In this passage, we expound upon and apply Paul's strong warning to be on guard against deficient human philosophy and tradition. Instead, we call all to be faithful to the All Sufficient Wisdom of God, the Logos, the God-man, Jesus Christ. 2021-06-101h 04Koinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesMemorial Day Special: Is War Just?As Memorial Day occurred on the our usual meeting day, this lesson was dedicated to assessing the Biblical position regarding war. If war is never morally permissible, how could we celebrate Memorial Day in good conscience? This episode thus argues that war can indeed be justifiable from both historical precedent and the role of the God's institution of government in society. Finally, the episode concluded with a discussion of Just War Theory as articulated by Augustine and St. Thomas Aquinas. 2021-06-061h 01Koinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesColossians 1 24-25 2021-05-011h 05Koinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesLive by Faith, not by Peace Is God’s Will to be determined by the sensation of peace?2021-04-081h 03Koinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesColossians 1:21-23 2021-04-0548 minKoinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesColossians 1:18-20 2021-03-2856 minKoinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesColossians 1:17-18 2021-03-2234 minKoinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesColossians 1:15-17 2021-03-221h 02Koinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesColossians 1:12-14 Part 2Finishing up eschatology2021-03-0742 minKoinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesColossians 1:12-14 Part 1Getting into eschatology2021-03-0755 minKoinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesColossians 1:11 2021-03-0744 minKoinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesColossians 1:9-10 2021-02-061h 08Koinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesColossians 1:3-8 2021-01-3050 minKoinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesColossians 1:1-2 2021-01-1355 minKoinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesIntro to Colossians Part 2 2021-01-131h 10Koinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesIntro to Colossians Part 1During this episode we cover the very first word of the book -- Paul. Despite the book's claims to have been written by Paul, scholars often disagree with that claim.  So can we trust the book of Colossians? Could Paul have actually written Colossians? We answer that question affirmatively as we begin our journey to exploring the wonders of this book. 2021-01-0559 minKoinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesFinal Three CertaintiesAt the end of this Epistle, John is showing us what conclusions we may draw from our self-analysis2020-12-0257 minKoinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesGetting the Gospel Right -- Test of Faith #13Do you believe the witness of God and Christ?2020-10-2851 minKoinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesGetting the Gospel Right -- Comma JohanneumWhat is the Comma Johanneum, and how did it end up in some Bibles?2020-10-2645 minKoinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesGetting the Gospel Right -- Threefold WitnessThreefold Witness2020-10-2134 minKoinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesGetting the Gospel Right -- Test of Faith #12Test #12: Metagape - Do you love loving because you have overcome?2020-10-2148 minKoinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesGetting the Gospel Right -- Test of Faith #11Test #11: Do you bear the fruit of the Spirit -- Belief in Christ and love that does not fear?2020-10-0559 minKoinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesGetting the Gospel Right -- Test of Faith #10Do you complete what God started?2020-09-0159 minKoinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesGetting the Gospel Right -- Test of Faith #9 Part 3No description available at this time. 2020-08-3148 minKoinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesGetting the Gospel Right -- Test of Faith #9 Part 2No description available at this time. 2020-08-311h 03Koinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesGetting the Gospel Right -- Test of Faith #9 Part 1No description available at this time. 2020-08-311h 01Koinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesGetting the Gospel Right -- The Sovereignty of God in PrayerWhen we will to pray — and our will and desires in prayer merge and match with God’s sovereign will — our prayers becomes the means by which God is stirred and aroused to act in the affairs of men.2020-08-041h 21Koinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesGetting the Gospel Right -- From Head to HeartThe tests of our faith are designed to reveal to our minds the truth about our spiritual condition; this knowledge is, in turn, designed to quiet our anxious hearts. While we (our heart/conscience) may find us overwhelmingly guilty, our God—who knows us better than we do—is a greater and higher judge than our hearts, yet He does not condemn, but rather forgives us because of Christ.2020-07-2859 minKoinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesGetting the Gospel Right -- Test of Faith #8The children of Satan are murderous, hateful, and indifferent. The Children of God love by 1) being moved at the heart (emotional) level, 2) taking legitimate actions to lay down their life and resources, and 3) doing this with an honest/straightforward/pure motive for those in need.2020-07-231h 03Koinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesGetting the Gospel Right -- Test of Faith #7Do you possess a purifying hope? In this lesson, we define what hope is and how our future hope impacts Christian conduct today. Blessings!2020-03-231h 04Koinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesGetting the Gospel Right -- Test of Faith #5Do you love the world system and its things? In this lesson, we discuss why true believers cannot love the world: because of who we are, because of what the world does, and because of where it is going.2020-03-231h 03Koinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesGetting the Gospel Right -- Spiritual AgingBreaking from the classic flow of the book of 1 John, we discussed how John is reassuring his readers that he is not doubting their Christian faith. Just because we are not completely sanctified does not mean we are not justified. In other words, just because you aren’t mature in your faith does not mean you aren’t in the faith. Blessings!2020-02-271h 00Koinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesGetting the Gospel Right -- Test of Faith #4Love is an old, old commandment in the Jewish and Christian faith, but it took on new, fresh meaning with the coming of Christ. Listen to find out how love (and hate) are tests of genuine faith!2020-02-2747 minKoinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesGetting the Gospel Right -- Test of Faith #3Test #3: Do you submit to the commandments of God like Christ did? In this lesson, we discussed the three components of assurance, the idea of abiding in Christ, and what it means to submit to the directives of God in the same fashion as our blessed Lord and Savior. 2020-02-171h 00Koinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesGetting the Gospel Right -- Test of Faith #2Test #2: Do you agree with God about your sin? In this lesson, we understand what it means to confess our sin before Him, and how gracious God is to appoint us such a successful divine defense attorney.2020-02-101h 00Koinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesRich Young Ruler (Sermon/Service)In this especially sobering lesson, we discussed the state of the church as a whole and what needs to be done in response. It is my prayer that this lesson blesses your heart as it has burdened mine. Truth #1: Psychological felt need (emptiness, desperation) is necessary, but not sufficient for the reception of eternal life. Christianity is not primarily psychological, but rather volitional. Truth #2: The only being who is intrinsically and naturally good is God; thus, preaching law is necessary to preach before grace, as only those who recognize their inherent guilt are able to...2020-02-031h 25Koinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesGetting the Gospel Right -- Test of Faith #1Do you walk in the light or in the darkness? Do you live in accordance with the revealed word of God? I pray that this first test is a challenge to your heart and an apt place to inaugurate the Tests of the Faith subsection in the Getting the Gospel Right series. 2020-01-3151 minKoinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesGetting the Gospel Right -- Reasons People Lack AssuranceIn this episode, our lesson consisted of a highly back and forth style in which reasons that many lack assurance/doubt their relationship with God were discussed. Though each prayer group contributed their own personal experiences, seven reasons were directly asserted in the lesson: Reason #1 People Lack Assurance: Some lack assurance because they have been under preaching that elevates God’s Holy Standards. Reason #2 People Lack Assurance: Some Lack assurance because they cannot accept forgiveness. Reason #3 People Lack Assurance: Some lack assurance because they do not understand the gospel and the plan of sa...2020-01-241h 04Koinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesGetting the Gospel Right -- Rich Young RulerIn this especially sobering lesson, we discussed the state of the church as a whole and what needs to be done in response. It is my prayer that this lesson blesses your heart as it has burdened mine. Truth #1: Psychological felt need (emptiness, desperation) is necessary, but not sufficient for the reception of eternal life. Christianity is not primarily psychological, but rather volitional. Truth #2: The only being who is intrinsically and naturally good is God; thus, preaching law is necessary to preach before grace, as only those who recognize their inherent guilt are able to...2020-01-151h 08Koinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesValetta Crumley (Missionary)In this episode, you will hear the story of an old saint and missionary with OMS who has lived a life sold out for Christ. Truly, Valetta Crumley is "Not a Fan."2020-01-111h 15Koinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesBorn from Above (Sermon)Though originally taught in Koinonia, the same address was delivered in sermon form to the congregation at Landmark.  "In this episode, we begin our exploration of Jesus' strong interaction with Nicodemus in John 3. Rather than exchanging pleasantries with the high ranking pharisee, Jesus challenged him that he needed a birth which he could contribute nothing to. Nicodemus needed to be born from above." Truth #1: There are two types of faith and belief presented throughout Scripture. One that saves; one that damns. Truth #2: Salvation is entirely a work of God. The only thing we c...2019-12-3053 minKoinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesGetting the Gospel Right -- Wee Little ManIn this Lesson, we learn many truths from the story of Zacchaeus, principally the heart-level changes exhibited upon receiving his salvation.  Truth #1: God LOVES a cheerful giver. God LOVES those who cheerfully repent, because we are giving ourselves to Him. Truth #2: Love birds seem ridiculous until you’re one of them. (Fans think its crazy, followers are madly in love). Truth #3: Ask not what the kingdom can do for you, but what you can do for the kingdom. Blessings!2019-12-3057 minKoinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesSurvey of Covenants: Guest SpeakerIn this interlude to our series, Nathan delivered an address regarding numerous covenants throughout the Bible. This topic is especially important for developing a framework from which to interpret Scripture. Blessings!2019-12-3041 minKoinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesGetting the Gospel Right -- Jesus Opens the Eyes of The BlindTruth #1: The attitude you come to the table with determines the taste of the food. Truth #2: Unbelief produces blindness even when there is evidence for it. Truth #3: You don’t need a theological background to worship GOD. The Spirit opens one’s eyes to produce worship.2019-12-061h 11Koinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesGetting the Gospel Right -- Heart (and Head) of WorshipJesus' message was consistently the same with whomever He came into contact. Though the style changed dramatically person to person, the core elements are always present (that He is more than just a good guy, but truly the Son of GOD, and the understanding that faith results in good works). Join us as we dive into the interaction between a loving Savior and the Woman at the Well.    2019-12-0644 minKoinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesInterview on Fully Devoted with Alexis WagonerRecently, Koinonia College Ministries was invited to discuss various questions on "Fully Devoted with Alexis Wagoner." In this interview, you will hear a description of what genuine faith is, how to have a relationship with Christ, and prayer in context of a believers daily life. Be sure to check out her radio program as well!2019-11-2018 minKoinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesGetting the Gospel Right -- Black and White BeliefIn this episode, we conclude our look into Jesus' interaction with Nicodemus. We see Jesus address the Condition of Unbelief, the Correction of Unbelief, the Condemnation of Unbelief, and finally the Cause of Unbelief.  This section of Scripture is especially challenging as it reveals just how sinful man naturally is, and how much we desperately need our eyes opened to be capable of believing. Blessings!2019-11-201h 13Koinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesGetting the Gospel Right--Born From AboveIn this episode, we begin our exploration of Jesus' strong interaction with Nicodemus in John 3. Rather than exchanging pleasantries with the high ranking pharisee, Jesus challenged him that he needed a birth which he could contribute nothing to. Nicodemus needed to be born from above. 2019-11-181h 06Koinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesGetting the Gospel Right -- Jesus is LordThe Lordship of Jesus Christ is perhaps one of the most controversial topics in the Christian realm. Can someone be genuinely regenerated while still living a life rejecting the Lordship of Christ? This lesson serves as an introduction to a new subsection of this series, which will be investigating what Jesus has to say about His Gospel. It is our hope that through this, a rather revolutionary challenge to ascertain what genuine, salvific faith really is before our Lord. 2019-11-1051 minKoinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesGetting the Gospel Right -- Dead and Living FaithHave you ever met someone who claims to be a Christian, yet their life just doesn't match their professed faith? In this lesson, we look at James challenging the sincerity of some individuals' faith.  If there was ever a needed time for a distinction between dead, non-saving faith and living, saving faith, Christianity today is in dire need. 2019-10-271h 05Koinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesGetting the Gospel Right--The Role of Sin in the Life of BelieverWe are redeemed, born-again, given a new nature...even PERFECT(!!!) in the eyes of God. Yet, we still find ourselves dealing with sin in our lives on a daily basis. This lesson deals with reconciling the strong statements of Bible regarding the holiness of the Saints and the role of sin in the life of the redeemed. Simul Justus et Peccator!2019-10-141h 01Koinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesGetting the Gospel Right--Direction not PerfectionIn this episode, we discussed the idea of progressive sanctification. The discussion briefly addresses why it is an impossible paradox to be a regenerate individual while living a life of sin. In brief, it's about the Direction, not Perfection, in the Christian life. Grace to you all!2019-10-0333 minKoinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesGetting the Gospel Right--Holding and Being HeldNothing is more glorious than the truth that, as we hold onto the faith and God, God is truly holding on to us and our faith in Him. Though this doctrine has been called by two names (eternal security and perseverance of the saints), they both highlight this same truth from different angles.  It is my hope that this security in Christ can comfort you and further your ability to truly know God and who He is!2019-09-2356 minKoinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesGetting the Gospel Right--Sola FideThe crucial doctrine which fueled the reformation (and much of Pauline thought) is that it is faith alone which saves! Though we know that saving faith is never alone (without/devoid of good works), faith in the work of Christ on the cross is what saves.  This lesson probes the connection between faith and justification and why confusing justification with sanctification is such detrimental error. I sincerely hope that this lesson which focuses more on doctrine can also lead you to greater love and appreciation for the wisdom and work of GOD in the glorious Gospel of our Lord a...2019-09-1654 minKoinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesGetting the Gospel Right--The DilemmaAs we have engaged in a study of human depravity, we have simultaneously backed man into a tricky situation. Man is stuck in a position where he is an evil wrongdoer, yet God can not let sin slide. He in no wise will clear the guilty. This shorter lesson explores the situation in which man finds himself. 2019-09-0930 minKoinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesGetting the Gospel Right--God v ManIn this episode, we address the summary of Paul's/God's condemnation of man in Romans 3.  The main text is laid out in courtroom style as God takes man to court. By listing off indictments from the Word of God itself, Paul finishes his airtight argument showing that all are indeed guilty before God and fall vastly short of the glory of God. 2019-08-291h 11Koinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesGetting the Gospel Right--The FactsIn the first lesson in our new series (Getting the Gospel Right), a foundation was built primarily out of 1 Cor. 15 regarding the facts of the Gospel. It is essential to have a foundational understanding of the Gospel truths before diving deeper in this matter. These facts are not merely dry re-statements of what many have heard their whole lives, but rather a visit upon the best truths mankind has ever encountered. From Doctrine to Deed and from Profession to Practice, may God's Word encourage you! Blessings!2019-08-131h 05Koinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesPrelude to the Gospel--Guest SpeakerLast Monday, guest speaker (Nathan Housman) delivered a lesson with a foundational primer regarding why exactly the gospel is needed. In teaching this matter, Housman paved the way for our next extensive series--Getting the Gospel Right. This series will begin with a basic understanding of the gospel message, followed by a deeper investigation into certain elements of salvation and the Gospel message. This will allow us to continue into the beautiful tests of the faith outlined throughout Scripture.  Blessings!2019-08-0436 minKoinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesDivorce and Singleness Part 2In our final lesson from the marriage and singleness series, we finished in 1 Cor. 7:29-40 by discussing the final 4 reasons Paul outlines as reasons to exercise the gift of singleness (if you have it!). As always, blessings from the Koinonia family!2019-07-2559 minKoinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesDivorce and Singleness Part 1Continuing in 1 Cor. 7, we discussed reasons for divorce and singleness (along with other topics) as outlined in verses from V8 through V28.2019-07-2256 minKoinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesOn Marriage (...and by marriage, I mean celibacy)After spending weeks studying the role of men and women in marriage, we began to investigate the marriage relationship as a whole. This led us to 1 Cor. 7:1-7, where we began this topic. This lesson followed Paul's logic and addressed marriage, celibacy, sexuality, and much more.2019-07-091h 07Koinonia MinistriesKoinonia MinistriesThe Mechanism of LoveIn our final lesson on the men's role in marriage (here at Koinonia), we provided the actual context of the passage (1 Cor. 13) prior to applying it to love in the marital relationship in our discussion groups. The first couple minutes are simply the conversation beforehand and can be skipped if you wish.2019-07-0242 min