The Wisdom Journey with Stephen Davey

In this episode of The Wisdom Journey, we delve into the final chapter of Romans. Paul, after offering personal greetings to nearly thirty individuals, pauses to deliver a stern warning to the church in Rome. His urgent message addresses two critical dangers for believers—false teachers and a depraved culture. Discover Paul's insights on identifying and avoiding false teachings that lead believers astray and learn how to stay innocent and wise in a world full of temptations. Join us as we uncover the importance of vigilance in our walk with Christ and heed Paul's warnings for a steadfast faith.

In this episode of The Wisdom Journey, we delve into the final chapter of Romans, where Paul bares his heart in gratitude by naming thirty-five people who have impacted his life and ministry. This personal roll call serves as a powerful reminder that every believer's name and service matter to God. Paul greets seventeen men, nine women, two married couples, five converted slaves, and several large groups and households, highlighting the importance of each individual's contribution to the body of Christ. Join us as we explore the significance of these names and the stories behind them, such as Phoebe, Prisca and Aquila, and Rufus. Discover how Paul's acknowledgments reflect God's heart, where no act of service goes unnoticed and every believer's name is written in the Lamb's Book of Life. This episode encourages us to live for Christ with a servant-minded attitude, knowing that our names and deeds are eternally remembered by our Heavenly Father. Reflect on the profound truth that God knows you personally and cares about every detail of your life. Be inspired by the stories of faithful believers and the assurance that one day, when the roll is called up yonder, your name will be there, greeted by the Lord Himself.

In this episode of The Wisdom Journey, we delve into Romans 15:30-33, where the Apostle Paul makes an urgent plea for prayer from the believers in Rome. Paul, aware of his own weaknesses and the dangers he faces, appeals to the church with a heartfelt request for support in prayer. He reveals three specific prayer requests: for safety, for his service to be accepted, and for personal joy and refreshment. Paul’s transparency and dependence on prayer offer a powerful example of humility and reliance on God. Despite his remarkable accomplishments and steadfast dedication to his mission, Paul acknowledges his need for the prayers of fellow believers to sustain and strengthen him. His plea is not just for occasional prayer but for believers to agonize in prayer alongside him, sharing in his spiritual struggle. Join us as we explore how Paul’s prayer requests were answered and learn the importance of striving together in prayer for one another. Discover how God’s peace and faithfulness provided Paul with the strength to continue his mission, even amidst trials and discouragement. This episode encourages us to remain faithful in prayer and to support one another in our spiritual journeys.

In this episode of The Wisdom Journey, we explore Romans 15:20-29, where the Apostle Paul shares his personal expectations and ministry goals. However, life doesn’t always go as planned. Through the example of Paul and the remarkable story of Dr. Charles McCoy, we learn how to trust God’s unexpected plans even when our own expectations are not met. Paul's ambition was to preach the gospel where Christ was not yet known, hoping to visit Rome and eventually reach Spain. Despite his godly desires and long-term plans, Paul’s journey took unexpected turns. His arrival in Rome as a prisoner rather than a missionary pioneer serves as a powerful reminder that God's plans often differ from ours, but they are always purposeful and filled with hope. Through the lives of Dr. Charles McCoy and the Apostle Paul, this episode encourages us to hold our expectations loosely and trust in God's perfect plan for our lives. Even when our dreams and goals do not materialize as we envision, God's sovereign hand is at work, guiding us to fulfill His greater purposes.

In this episode of The Wisdom Journey, we delve into Romans 15:17-19 where the Apostle Paul provides a powerful lesson on humility and the dangers of pride. Paul illustrates how to avoid the trap of self-centered pride by emphasizing three key practices: elevating Christ, refusing personal accolades, and highlighting the work of the Holy Spirit. Through vivid examples and personal anecdotes, Stephen Davey explores how we, too, can follow Paul's example in our own lives and ministries. Paul begins by expressing his pride not in his own achievements, but in what Christ has accomplished through him. He emphasizes that any reason for boasting is found "in Christ Jesus." Next, Paul refuses to take credit for the spiritual fruits borne in his ministry, instead directing all glory to Christ. His humility serves as a model for us to avoid seeking personal recognition and to focus on God's work through us. Finally, Paul underscores the importance of attributing the success of his ministry to the power of the Holy Spirit. The miraculous signs and wonders performed through him were not for his glory but to validate the gospel and demonstrate God's power. As believers today, we are reminded to rely on the Holy Spirit and elevate Christ, keeping ourselves off the pedestal and pointing others to Him. Join us in learning how to embody this humility and bring glory to God in all we do.

In this episode, we dive back into Romans 15 where the Apostle Paul delivers heartfelt compliments to the believers in Rome, despite never having met them. Paul’s message is more than just praise; it's a demonstration of the roles we should embrace within the body of Christ. Join Stephen Davey as he explores how Paul exemplifies wearing different "hats" of helpfulness in his ministry—roles that we, too, can adopt to strengthen and support one another in our faith journeys. Paul dons the hat of an encourager, recognizing the goodness, knowledge, and instructive abilities of the Roman believers. This is followed by his role as a professor, reminding them of important truths they may already know but need to revisit. He then becomes a preacher, emphasizing the grace given to him to minister to the Gentiles, and finally, Paul takes on the hat of a minister, serving with self-sacrificial love and dedication, much like the medical pioneer Dr. Evan Kane, who demonstrated his commitment by performing surgery on himself to prove a point and save lives. Through these various roles, Paul models the essence of a servant-leader, showing us that making a difference in the world involves more than just knowledge or position; it requires a heart willing to serve and sacrifice for others. Tune in to discover how you can apply these principles in your own life, wearing different hats of helpfulness for the glory of God and the benefit of those around you.

In this episode, Stephen explores Romans 15:4-13, revealing how believers can find hope and strength through unity and faith. Drawing from historical examples and biblical teachings, Stephen emphasizes the importance of embracing the Scriptures, the fellowship of believers, and our Savior. These practices not only guide us in times of uncertainty but also foster a community where hearts are never homeless, and futures are filled with hope. Join us as we delve into the practical steps to live a life marked by joy, peace, and hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.

In this episode, Stephen delves into Romans 15:1-3, 8, exploring how believers are called to be representatives of Christ, embodying His supportiveness, selflessness, sacrifice, and servanthood. Using real-life examples and biblical references, Stephen illustrates the profound impact of living out these qualities, making us effective ambassadors of God's kingdom. Join us as we discover practical ways to imitate Jesus and promote the true brand of Christianity in our daily lives.

In this episode, Stephen explores Romans 14:19-23, focusing on how we can care for one another as God's masterpieces. The world goes to great lengths to protect valuable art and instruments; how much more should we protect and uplift each other in the body of Christ? Stephen unpacks three ways to guard our fellow believers: by treating others with a spirit of surrender, offering spiritual reinforcement, and handling each other with proper caution. Join us as we learn how to navigate gray areas of life, ensuring our actions build up rather than tear down our brothers and sisters in Christ.

In this episode, Stephen continues our Wisdom Journey through Romans 14, exploring the principle of reputation. While the Bible teaches us about our freedom in Christ, it also emphasizes the importance of guarding our reputation as believers. Stephen delves into Romans 14:16-18, where Paul reminds us to be mindful of how our actions are perceived by others. Using practical examples and biblical insights, Stephen encourages us to live lives marked by purity, peace, and joy, ensuring that our liberty does not become a stumbling block for others. Join us as we learn how to honor Christ in both our freedom and our reputation.

In this episode, Stephen guides us through Romans 14:13-15, where the apostle Paul addresses the challenging gray areas of life. While personal convictions are important, Paul emphasizes the principle of protection, urging believers to avoid placing stumbling blocks or intentional hindrances in the paths of their brothers and sisters in Christ. Stephen shares practical insights and personal anecdotes to illustrate how our actions can either support or harm fellow believers. Join us as we explore how to balance liberty and love in our daily walk with Christ.

Disagreements among believers can arise even when the Bible is clear on doctrine. The greater challenge comes with "gray areas" of life, such as entertainment or education, where opinions vary widely. In Romans 14, Paul addresses the contentious issue of diet among Roman believers, emphasizing that these differences, though significant, should not divide the church. Whether one esteems one day as better than another or considers all days alike, Paul urges believers to be fully convinced in their own minds and to respect each other's convictions. Paul’s advice in Romans 14:5-12 provides a framework for navigating these differences. He highlights the importance of each believer being fully convinced in their own mind, thereby recognizing that personal convictions should be respected. Importantly, Paul reminds believers that whether they observe certain days or abstain from certain foods, they should do so in honor of the Lord, giving thanks to God. This perspective helps maintain unity and prevent judgmental attitudes within the church. Ultimately, Paul underscores that every believer will stand before the judgment seat of God, not each other. Therefore, believers should avoid passing judgment on one another in non-essential matters. Instead, they should focus on living in a way that honors God, recognizing that God will have the final word. This approach fosters unity and allows for diverse expressions of faith within the body of Christ.

In this episode of Wisdom International, Stephen explores Romans 14:1-4, where Paul addresses the delicate topic of navigating gray areas in the Christian life. Using the analogy of foggy roads and uncertain paths, Stephen illustrates how believers must carefully and respectfully handle issues that Scripture does not directly address. These "gray areas" can range from dietary choices to worship practices and personal convictions. Paul's inspired guidance offers believers several steps to maintain unity and love amidst differing opinions. The first step is to start with acceptance. Paul urges believers to welcome those who are weak in their understanding of faith, emphasizing the importance of fellowship over arguing. The second step is to refuse to argue. Paul advises believers to avoid quarreling over opinions, recognizing the difference between doctrine and personal preference. The third step is to adjust our attitude. Paul warns against despising or judging fellow believers, urging humility and grace instead. Both sides in any disagreement must maintain a Christ-like attitude. The final step is to remember who is ultimately in charge. Paul reminds us that we are all servants of the Lord, and it is before Him that we stand or fall. Judging others in matters of personal conviction oversteps our bounds, as we all answer to God alone. Through practical examples and personal anecdotes, Stephen encourages listeners to approach gray areas with a heart of acceptance, a refusal to argue, an attitude adjustment, and a remembrance of God's ultimate authority. By doing so, believers can maintain unity and reflect Christ's love in all their interactions. Tune in to learn how to navigate life's gray areas with grace, humility, and a focus on building up the body of Christ.

In this episode of Wisdom International, Stephen delves into Romans 13:11-14, exploring the Apostle Paul's urgent call to live with an eternal perspective. Reflecting on Psalm 90:12, Stephen emphasizes the importance of numbering our days to gain a heart of wisdom. He introduces a thought-provoking exercise: considering the remaining months of our lives, based on average lifespans, as a way to motivate purposeful living for Christ. Drawing from his own life, Stephen shares the impactful visual of a jar of marbles, each representing a month he has left if he lives to be 75. This tangible reminder encourages listeners to press on for the Lord, making the most of the time they have. As Paul urges believers to wake up and live in the light of their salvation, Stephen unpacks the three tenses of salvation: past (saved from the penalty of sin), present (being saved from the power of sin), and future (will be saved from the presence of sin). He emphasizes that our final salvation is nearer now than ever, and this truth should transform how we live each day. Stephen discusses the necessity of putting off the works of darkness and putting on the armor of light, highlighting six deeds of darkness—orgies, drunkenness, sexual immorality, sensuality, quarreling, and jealousy—that Paul warns against. He explains how these sins characterize a world in spiritual darkness and contrasts them with the believer's calling to live as children of light. Through practical advice and personal anecdotes, Stephen encourages listeners to "put on the Lord Jesus Christ" daily, resisting the temptations of the flesh and living in a way that honors God. By doing so, believers can effectively fulfill their mission to shine the light of the gospel in a world engulfed in darkness. Tune in to learn how living with an eternal perspective can shape your daily decisions, relationships, and ultimately, your legacy for Christ.

As Paul transitions from discussing the obligation to pay taxes in Romans 13, he shifts to a debt that believers must continually pay: the debt of love. Join Stephen as he delves into Romans 13:8-10, exploring the enduring command to love one another and how it fulfills the law. Discover why Paul’s admonition to “owe no one anything, except to love each other” does not prohibit borrowing but emphasizes the importance of maintaining a good reputation and fulfilling obligations. Learn how love, as an ongoing debt, manifests in our actions and attitudes, impacting our relationships and reflecting God’s love. Stephen will unpack how love fulfills the law by preventing adultery, murder, theft, and covetousness, turning us into givers rather than takers. This episode will inspire you to “max out your love limit” and continually pay the debt of love, building bridges for the gospel in your daily life. Tune in to understand how this principle shapes a distinctly Christian testimony in a world that desperately needs to see and experience God’s love.

Biblical Principles for Christians and Government How should Christians relate to their government, especially when faced with opposition or oppression? In Romans 13:1-7, Paul addresses this question head-on, providing timeless principles that are as relevant today as they were in the days of the Roman Empire. Join Stephen as he unpacks five key principles from this passage: Submission to government authority is commanded by God. Human government is ordained by God. Disobedience to government brings consequences from God. The justice of good government reveals the character of God. Christians are to financially support their government, including paying taxes. Stephen explains how these principles apply to believers worldwide, regardless of their specific governmental context. Discover how to honor God through respectful obedience, even when it’s challenging. What does it mean to live as a Christian citizen in today’s world? Tune in to find out and be encouraged to live out your faith in every aspect of life, including paying taxes.

In our increasingly hostile culture, how can Christians be a beacon of light and love? In this practical message, Stephen Davey explores Romans 12:14-21, revealing ten powerful ways to live a life overflowing with grace. Learn how to bless your enemies, rejoice with others, pursue peace, and respond to evil with good. Key Takeaway: God's grace isn't just for us; it's meant to flow through us and touch a hurting world. Join us for a journey into the heart of God's grace at Wisdom Online: https://www.wisdomonline.org

Are you chasing happiness in all the wrong places? In this eye-opening message, Stephen Davey unlocks the keys to a fulfilling life through Romans 12:12-13. Explore how true joy comes from pursuing God, not chasing empty promises.Discover the importance of spiritual optimism, unwavering perseverance, and a vibrant prayer life. Learn how to live with open hands and an open heart, transforming your life and impacting the world around you. Key Takeaway: Happiness isn't found in what we acquire, but in the pursuit of God and His character. Don't miss this opportunity for a life-changing encounter with truth! Dive deeper into the wisdom of Scripture at Wisdom Online: https://www.wisdomonline.org

In this Lesson, Stephen Davey unpacks Romans 12:9-11, revealing how genuine love, hatred of evil, and humble service are unmistakable evidence of spiritual sanity. Discover the power of honoring others, cheering them on in their faith, and maintaining a fervent spirit in your walk with Christ. Don't miss this challenge to examine your life and live out authentic Christianity in a world that desperately needs it. Key Takeaway: True faith isn't just about what we believe; it's about how we live, love, and serve others. These are the marks that set us apart as followers of Christ. Want to learn more? Visit Wisdom Online (https://www.wisdomonline.org) for additional resources and deeper exploration into the wisdom of Scripture.

In this lesson, Stephen Davey dives into Romans 12:6b-8, revealing the truth that every Christian has a unique spiritual gift from God. Discover the various gifts outlined in Scripture and understand their role in serving the body of Christ. Whether your gift is teaching, leadership, encouragement, or something else, learn how to use it faithfully for God's glory. Key Takeaway: You are a charismatic! God has equipped you with a special gift to build up the church and bless others. Want to learn more? Head over to Wisdom Online (https://www.wisdomonline.org) for additional resources and deeper exploration into the wisdom of Scripture.