Marked by Grace

Many Christians casually refer to Sunday as "the Sabbath day," but is this biblically accurate? Pastor Heath Lambert examines what Scripture actually teaches about the Sabbath and reveals why this common assumption needs correction.Timestamps0:00 - Introduction and physical book reveal1:36 - The question: Is Sunday the Sabbath day?2:50 - Why we need Scripture to answer this question3:04 - The fourth commandment and Sabbath timing (Exodus 20)3:24 - The Sabbath is on the seventh day (Saturday)4:02 - Roman influence on day names4:40 - God's rest on the seventh day4:55 - New Testament worship patterns5:20 - What the New Testament calls Sunday5:36 - The "Lord's Day" in Revelation 1:106:04 - Final answer: Sunday is not the SabbathKey Topics Covered- The Fourth Commandment Foundation - Understanding what Exodus 20 teaches about Sabbath timing- Biblical Day Counting - How the seven-day week originates from Scripture- Historical Context - Roman influence on modern day names and Saturday's etymology- Old Testament vs. New Testament - The shift from Sabbath worship to first-day worship- Terminology Matters - Why the New Testament uses "Lord's Day" instead of "Sabbath" for Sunday- Common Christian Mistake - Why pastors and authors incorrectly use "Sabbath" for SundayScripture ReferencesExodus 20:8-11 - The Fourth Commandment and Sabbath dayRevelation 1:10 - The Lord's Day referenceActs and 1 Corinthians - New Testament worship patternsAbout The Ten Commandments BookHeath Lambert's new book, "The Ten Commandments: A Short Book for Normal People," releases September 30th. This accessible guide explains how God's commands apply to modern life without requiring theological education. Perfect for personal study, evangelism, or gifts to friends, neighbors, and family.Pre-order and download a free chapter at fbcjax.com/tencommandmentsHave a question you'd like answered? Send it to markedbygrace@fbcjax.com

Many Christians assume the third commandment, "You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain," is primarily about using bad language. But Pastor Heath Lambert reveals the deeper biblical meaning behind this sacred command and explains why it's about much more than cursing.Timestamps0:00 - Introduction and new book announcement1:55 - The question: Is the third commandment about cursing?2:09 - What the third commandment actually says (Exodus 20:7)2:40 - Common misconceptions about breaking this commandment3:07 - The real meaning: misusing God's name vs cursing3:39 - Why the third commandment is primarily about something deeper4:13 - Biblical view on cursing and foul language (Ephesians 5:4)4:54 - Multiple ways to violate the third commandmentKey Topics Covered- The Text of the Third Commandment - Understanding what Exodus 20:7 actually teaches about God's name- Common Misunderstanding - Why many people think this commandment is only about profanity- The Real Issue: Vain Use of God's Name - How we empty God's name of its intrinsic weight and importance- Cursing and the Bible - What Scripture teaches about foul language and crude talk- Multiple Violations - The many ways people can misuse God's sacred name beyond profanity- Proper Reverence - How to honor God's name in our daily speech and worshipScripture ReferencesExodus 20:7 - The Third CommandmentEphesians 5:4 - Instructions about speech and crude talkAbout The Ten Commandments BookHeath Lambert's new book "The Ten Commandments: A Short Book for Normal People" releases September 30th. This accessible guide explains how God's commands apply to modern life without requiring theological education. Perfect for personal study, evangelism, or gifts to friends, neighbors, and family.Pre-order the book or get your free download of the first chapter at fbcjax.com/tencommandmentsHave a question you'd like answered? Send it to markedbygrace@fbcjax.com

With pictures of Jesus everywhere - from children's Bibles to church walls to Christmas pageants - many Christians wonder if these images violate the second commandment. Pastor Heath Lambert explains what the Bible really teaches about divine images and when they become problematic.Timestamps0:00 - Introduction and new book announcement1:29 - The question: Are pictures of Jesus wrong?1:56 - The second commandment explained (Exodus 20:4-6)2:50 - The incarnation factor: Jesus as the image of God3:43 - Why we can't see Jesus physically now4:13 - What the second commandment actually prohibits4:53 - The difference between making images and worshiping them5:35 - The key issue: worship vs. artwork6:13 - Practical application: Pictures, movies, and TV shows6:48 - Prioritizing Scripture over imagesKey Topics Covered- The Second Commandment's True Meaning - Understanding what Exodus 20:4-6 actually forbids about divine images- The Incarnation Challenge - How Jesus as "the image of the invisible God" affects our understanding- Act vs. Intent - Why the commandment focuses on worship, not artistic creation- Artwork vs. Idolatry - The crucial distinction between making images and bowing down to them- Practical Guidelines - How to approach pictures of Jesus in children's books, movies, and church art- Scripture Supremacy - Why God's written word must take precedence over any visual representationScripture ReferencesExodus 20:4-6 - The Second CommandmentColossians 1:15 - Jesus as the image of the invisible GodAbout The Ten Commandments BookHeath Lambert's new book "The Ten Commandments: A Short Book for Normal People" releases September 30th. This accessible guide explains how God's commands apply to modern life without requiring theological education. Perfect for personal study, evangelism, or gifts to friends, neighbors, and family.Pre-order the book or get your free download of the first chapter at fbcjax.com/tencommandmentsHave a question you'd like answered? Send it to markedbygrace@fbcjax.com

Ever wondered what the Bible says about the worst sin you could commit? Pastor Heath Lambert tackles this challenging question by examining Jesus's response about the greatest commandment in Matthew 22. The answer might surprise you - it's not what most people think.Timestamps0:00 - Introduction and new book announcement1:49 - The question: What is the biggest sin?2:39 - Jesus and the greatest commandment (Matthew 22)4:31 - Connecting commandments to sin5:36 - Pride as the biggest sin6:07 - James 3:16 and the fruit of pride7:00 - Jesus as our freedom from prideKey Topics Covered- The Greatest Commandment Foundation - Jesus identifies love as the supreme biblical command when challenged by religious lawyers- Biblical Method for Understanding Sin - How to approach difficult theological questions by examining what Scripture emphasizes most- Pride as the Root Sin - Why self-exaltation stands as the fundamental violation of God's law and love- The Connection Between Love and Sin - Understanding how the greatest commandment reveals the greatest transgression- Practical Application - How recognizing pride helps us grow in our relationship with Jesus ChristScripture ReferencesMatthew 22:36-39 - The Greatest CommandmentJames 3:16 - Pride and its consequencesAbout The Ten Commandments BookHeath Lambert's new book "The Ten Commandments: A Short Book for Normal People" releases September 30th. This accessible guide explains how God's commands apply to modern life without requiring theological education. Perfect for personal study, evangelism, or gifts.Pre-order the book or get your free download of the first chapter at fbcjax.com/tencommandmentsHave a question you'd like answered? Send it to markedbygrace@fbcjax.com

Will disciplining children for tantrums and outbursts damage their willingness to share feelings and communicate openly? Discover four biblical principles that show how proper discipline actually strengthens rather than harms parent-child relationships.TIMESTAMPS0:00 - Introduction: The Heart of a Torn Parent1:09 - The Core Question About Discipline and Relationship1:33 - Principle 1: Spankings Are Not the Only Thing We Do2:57 - Principle 2: Spankings Are for Sin, Not Feelings3:31 - Clarifying What We Punish vs. What We Discuss4:21 - Teaching Children to Identify Their Sin5:15 - Principle 3: Discipline Is Parental Obedience to God5:39 - Proverbs 13:24 - Love Disciplines Diligently6:31 - Building Character Through Parental Integrity6:57 - Principle 4: Spanking Is Not the Last Step7:45 - The Lambert House Rule: Don't Leave Angry8:22 - Ending Discipline with Prayer, Grace, and Restoration8:44 - When Discipline Goes Wrong vs. RightMAIN POINTS- Spankings Are Not the Only Thing We DoPhysical correction should be a very small percentage of overall parenting time. Parents who discipline have earned that right through much larger investments of positive relationship building. - Discipline is placed within a broader context of love and care throughout daily life.- Spankings Are for Sin, Not Feelings or PreferencesChildren should never be punished for having feelings, needing to talk, or making mistakes. - Discipline is specifically for sin - violations of God's law. Parents must clearly communicate the difference between emotions that need discussion and sinful behaviors that require correction.- Discipline Is Parental Obedience That Models IntegrityFollowing Proverbs 13:24, parents demonstrate love through diligent discipline. This shows children that parents have integrity and follow God's commands, building rather than undermining confidence in the parent-child relationship over a lifetime.- Discipline Should End with Restoration, Not AngerThe Lambert house rule was to never leave discipline sessions angry. After confession, forgiveness, and correction, the process should end with prayer, grace, and often laughter and affection. The goal is restoring the relationship broken by sin through faithfulness to God's Word.SCRIPTURE REFERENCESPrimary Passages:Proverbs 13:24 - Whoever spares the rod hates his son, but he who loves him is diligent to discipline himSupporting Context:Proverbs 22:15 - Folly is bound up in the heart of a childProverbs 23:13-14 - Do not withhold discipline from a childHebrews 12:5-11 - God disciplines those he lovesEphesians 6:1-4 - Children obey parents; fathers don't provoke to angerDeuteronomy 6:6-7 - Teaching children diligentlyColossians 3:21 - Fathers, do not embitter your childrenHave a question you'd like answered? Send it to markedbygrace@fbcjax.com

Pastor Heath Lambert tackles the controversial question of women's voting rights from a biblical worldview. In this episode, he addresses whether Christians should believe women should lose the right to vote based on male headship principles. Lambert provides clear biblical reasoning on government, voting rights, and how Christian families can maintain unity and biblical leadership while still allowing women to participate in democracy. This thoughtful analysis separates biblical mandates from cultural preferences and offers practical wisdom for Christian families navigating political participation.Key Timestamps0:13 - Question introduction: Should women be allowed to vote?2:02 - Biblical perspective on voting and government3:16 - Examples of biblical leadership (judges and kings)4:14 - Why voting isn't mandated or forbidden in Scripture5:53 - Reality check: Women's voting rights aren't going away6:31 - Why women should retain voting rights7:48 - Problems with male-only voting in a fallen world8:32 - How Christian families can vote with unity and leadershipKey Points- Voting is Extra-Biblical: The Bible doesn't mandate or forbid voting systems. Biblical examples show righteous government through judges and kings, not democratic processes.- Scripture Silence Means Freedom: Since the Bible doesn't specify voting requirements, Christians have freedom in how voting systems operate.- Male Headship Doesn't Equal Vote Monopoly: Biblical male leadership in the home doesn't logically require removing women's voting rights.- Fallen World Considerations: Single women, widows, and women in ungodly marriages would be left without representation under male-only voting.- Unity Through Leadership, Not Restriction: Christian families can maintain biblical unity and male leadership while still allowing all members to vote.- Practical Family Example: Families can discuss issues biblically, pray together, and reach unified voting decisions without eliminating anyone's right to participate.Scripture ReferencesRomans 13:1-7 - "Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God... For the one in authority is God's servant for your good."Biblical Examples of Leadership:Judges 13-16 - Samson's leadership periodJudges 6-8 - Gideon raised up as judge over Israel1 Samuel 8-31 - Establishment and history of Israel's monarchyJudges 2:16 - "Then the Lord raised up judges, who saved them out of the hands of these raiders"Ephesians 5:23 - "For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church"1 Timothy 3:4-5 - Regarding household leadership and church governanceHave a question you'd like answered? Send it to markedbygrace@fbcjax.com

Pastor Heath Lambert tackles a crucial theological question: Was Jesus tempted, and what does that mean? Discover the difference between external and internal temptation, and how understanding these distinctions helps us comprehend how Jesus could be "tempted in every way as we are, yet without sin."TIMESTAMPS0:00 - Introduction: The Question About Jesus' Temptation0:49 - What Is Temptation? The Basic Question1:32 - Type 1: External Temptation (Tempting Situations)1:40 - Example: Stack of $100 Bills in Empty Room2:27 - Type 2: Internal Temptation (Spiritual Corruption)2:42 - James 1:14: Lured and Enticed by Own Desire3:45 - How External and Internal Temptations Connect4:00 - Personal Examples: Tofu Salad vs. Blueberry Muffin4:25 - The Key Difference: Situational vs. Spiritual4:53 - Jesus Was Tempted: Matthew 4:1 Evidence5:15 - Hebrews 4:15: Tempted in Every Way, Yet Without Sin6:01 - James 1:13: God Cannot Be Tempted with Evil6:19 - The Solution: Two Kinds of Temptation Applied to Jesus7:00 - How Jesus Faced External Without Internal CorruptionMAIN POINTS- Two Kinds of TemptationExternal temptation consists of tempting situations or circumstances (like finding money when alone), while internal temptation involves corrupt cravings and sinister desires within the heart. External temptation becomes spiritually significant only when it meets internal corruption.- External Temptation Is Situational, Not Necessarily SinfulBeing in a potentially tempting situation isn't inherently wrong. The sinfulness comes from the internal response - the corrupt desire that matches up with the external opportunity. Different people are tempted by different external circumstances based on their internal desires.- Jesus Faced All External TemptationsScripture clearly states that Jesus was "tempted in every way as we are" (Hebrews 4:15) and was "led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil" (Matthew 4:1). Every potentially tempting situation that exists confronted Jesus during His earthly ministry.- Jesus Had No Internal CorruptionThough Jesus faced all external temptations, He had no internal corruption or sinful desires to match them. His heart was always trusting in the Lord and wanting to do righteousness. This is why He could be tempted externally yet remain "without sin" - there was no internal spiritual corruption to respond to the external circumstances.SCRIPTURE REFERENCESPrimary Passages:Matthew 4:1 - Jesus led into wilderness to be temptedHebrews 4:15 - Tempted in every way as we are, yet without sinJames 1:13-14 - God cannot be tempted; each person tempted by own desireSupporting Context:James 1:13 - Let no one say when tempted, "I am being tempted by God"James 1:14 - Each person is lured and enticed by his own desire1 John 2:16 - The desires of the flesh, eyes, and pride of life1 Corinthians 10:13 - No temptation beyond what you can bearHave a question you'd like answered? Send it to markedbygrace@fbcjax.com

Should Christians baptize infants or only believers? This age-old debate divides denominations and families. In this episode of Marked by Grace, Heath Lambert respectfully tackles the arguments against infant baptism from a Baptist perspective. Despite having two Presbyterian mentors who deeply influenced his ministry, Heath examines three key areas: biblical teaching, biblical examples, and biblical covenants. Discover why there's no New Testament command to baptize babies, what household baptisms really teach, and how covenant signs relate to the nature of God's covenants.Timestamps0:00 - Introduction: Arguments against baptizing babies3:07 - Personal story: Two Presbyterian mentors who shaped Heath's ministry5:53 - Why church history can't be our ultimate authority7:12 - Biblical teaching: No New Testament text commands infant baptism8:07 - Colossians 2:11-12 doesn't teach infant baptism10:54 - 1 Peter 3:21 doesn't mention infant baptism12:35 - Romans 6:3-5: Baptism requires faith and understanding14:22 - Biblical examples: Household baptisms and arguments from silence16:24 - Biblical covenants: Signs must match the nature of the covenantKey Points- No Clear Biblical Command: There is no text in the New Testament that explicitly commands or describes the baptism of infants - this is a significant issue when establishing Christian practice.- Church History vs. Scripture: While church historians can be quoted on both sides of the infant baptism debate, Scripture must be our ultimate authority, not historical precedent.- Colossians 2:11-12 Misunderstood: This passage speaks of spiritual circumcision "made without hands" and assumes the baptized person has faith - it cannot refer to infant baptism.- Household Baptisms Are Arguments from Silence: When Acts describes household baptisms, there's no explicit mention of infants. The text indicates those baptized "heard the word" and believed.- Baptism Requires Understanding: Romans 6:3-5 shows baptism as a picture of death, burial, and resurrection with Christ - meaningful only for those who understand and trust in Jesus.- Covenant Signs Match Covenant Nature: Throughout Scripture, covenant signs directly relate to the covenant's nature. New Testament baptism signifies personal faith, not biological or familial membership.- New Covenant, New Requirements: Unlike Old Testament circumcision based on biological descent, New Covenant membership is based on personal faith, requiring different covenant signs.- Respectful Disagreement: It's possible to disagree with infant baptism while maintaining deep respect for those who practice it, including mentors and fellow believers.Scripture ReferencesColossians 2:11-12 - "In him also you were circumcised with a circumcision made without hands, by putting off the body of the flesh, by the circumcision of Christ, having been buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with him through faith in the powerful working of God, who raised him from the dead." - Spiritual circumcision, not infant baptism1 Peter 3:21 - "Baptism, which corresponds to this, now saves you, not as a removal of dirt from the body, but as an appeal to God for a good conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ." - Baptism as an appeal of faith, not infant cleansingRomans 6:3-5 - "Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life. For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we shall certainly be united with him in a resurrection like his." - Baptism requires understanding of Christ's death and resurrectionActs 10:44 - "While Peter was still saying these things, the Holy Spirit fell on all who heard the word." - Those baptized in household baptisms were those who heard and believedRomans 2:28-29 - "For no one is a Jew who is merely one outwardly, nor is circumcision outward and physical. But a Jew is one inwardly, and circumcision is a matter of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the letter." - True circumcision is spiritual, not physicalHave a question you'd like answered? Send it to markedbygrace@fbcjax.com

Your child just asked you a question that made you freeze up. Whether it's about circumcision after Sunday school, what sex is, or something they read in the Bible, difficult questions from kids can catch Christian parents off guard. In this episode of Marked by Grace, Heath Lambert shares three essential principles for handling sensitive topics with children. Learn why YOU must be the primary source of answers, how to use Bible words confidently, and the art of giving age-appropriate responses without overwhelming little minds.Timestamps0:00 - Introduction: Handling difficult questions from little kids2:36 - Principle #1: YOU must be the source of answers4:50 - Principle #2: Use Bible words confidently6:44 - Principle #3: Be age-appropriate in your responses7:40 - Example: "What is sex?" - Simple, truthful answer8:18 - Example: Deuteronomy question from a first-graderKey Points-Be the Primary Source: Your children will get answers to their difficult questions somewhere. The question is: do you want them getting answers from you or from friends, the internet, or other unreliable sources?- Use Bible Words: If God uses certain words in Scripture, they're appropriate for your children. Don't feel nervous about using biblical language - circumcision, adultery, etc. - when explaining biblical concepts.- Age-Appropriate Responses: Don't give more detail than children actually want or need. Often a simple, truthful answer satisfies their curiosity without overwhelming them.- Create an Open Environment: Make it clear that no question is off-limits, even if it makes you uncomfortable. Children need to trust that parents are the best source for answers.- Start Simple: Begin with basic explanations and let children ask follow-up questions if they need more information. Don't build the whole "watch" when they just want to know the "time."- Biblical Foundation: Scripture equips us for every good work, including answering our children's questions. If kids are old enough to read the Bible, they're ready for Bible words. View this episode of Marked By Grace on teaching the Gospel to your children: https://youtu.be/hSlKeI3YHyI- Modern Challenges: Today's children face more complex questions earlier than previous generations due to increased exposure to mature content and technology.Scripture References2 Timothy 3:16-17 - "All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work." - Scripture equips us for answering children's questionsDeuteronomy 6:6-7 - "And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise." - Teaching God's word to childrenEphesians 6:4 - "Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord." - Parental responsibility for spiritual instructionHave a question you'd like answered? Send it to markedbygrace@fbcjax.com

Is getting life insurance a sign of fear or an act of love? This question divides many Christian families - one spouse wants financial protection while the other believes it shows lack of faith. In this episode of Marked by Grace, Heath Lambert tackles this practical theology question using three key Scripture passages. Discover why biblical wisdom actually encourages planning for future needs, how trusting God and preparing for danger work together, and why life insurance might be one of the most loving things a husband can do for his family.Timestamps0:00 - Introduction: Can you buy life insurance and still trust God?1:12 - Could life insurance be driven by fear? Yes, but not necessarily2:07 - Proverbs 22:3 - The prudent sees danger and prepares3:19 - Proverbs 6:6-8 - Learn from the ant: prepare for coming needs4:48 - 2 Thessalonians 3:10 - Work and trust go together6:44 - A word to husbands: Life insurance as an act of love7:42 - Both positions can be wrong: fear vs. presumption8:15 - Personal example: Life insurance at the Lambert house and churchKey Points- Fear vs. Wisdom: Life insurance could be motivated by fear, but it's more often an act of biblical wisdom - seeing danger ahead and preparing for it.- Biblical Precedent for Planning: Scripture consistently teaches that preparing for future needs is wise, not faithless. The ant prepares for winter, and we're commended to do the same.- Trust and Work Go Together: Just as we pray for daily bread AND work for our food, we can trust God's provision AND plan for our family's future needs.- Presumption vs. Faith: Not getting life insurance isn't necessarily more faithful - it might actually be presuming upon God to provide in ways He hasn't promised.- Husbands' Responsibility: Men are called to provide for their families and love their wives sacrificially. Life insurance can be a practical expression of this love.- Risk Management: Life insurance allows you to pay someone else to assume the financial risk of your death, protecting your wife from having to make difficult decisions alone.- Both Sides Can Be Wrong: The person wanting life insurance might be driven by fear, but the person opposing it might be driven by presumption rather than genuine faith.- Average vs. Reality: Just because the average American male lives to 79 doesn't guarantee you will - planning for the possibility of earlier death is wise stewardship.Scripture ReferencesProverbs 22:3 - "The prudent sees danger and hides himself, but the simple go on and suffer for it." - Biblical wisdom encourages preparing for known dangersProverbs 6:6-8 - "Go to the ant, O sluggard; consider her ways and be wise. Without having any chief, officer, or ruler, she prepares her bread in summer and gathers her food in harvest." - Planning for future needs is commendedProverbs 3:5-6 - "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight." - Trusting God doesn't eliminate the need for wise planning2 Thessalonians 3:10 - "If anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat." - Personal responsibility and divine provision work togetherMatthew 6:11 - "Give us this day our daily bread." - We pray for God's provision while also working for itEphesians 5:25 - "Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her." - Sacrificial love includes practical provisionHave a question you'd like answered? Send it to markedbygrace@fbcjax.com

Got baptized before you were truly saved? This is more common than you might think. In this episode of Marked by Grace, Heath Lambert addresses a listener's question about getting baptized at 14 without being saved, then coming to faith at 35. Using Romans 6:1-4, discover why baptism is a sign that only has meaning when the spiritual reality it represents has actually occurred in your heart. Learn the biblical difference between getting wet and being truly baptized, plus Heath's personal story of his own childhood "baptism" that wasn't really baptism at all.Timestamps0:00 - Introduction: The question of getting baptized again0:46 - The listener's scenario: Baptized at 14, saved at 351:12 - Heath's answer: Yes, you need to be baptized1:18 - Heath's personal story: Childhood baptism without faith2:04 - The grandmother who demanded baptism2:46 - Going down the aisle under pressure3:25 - Why that baptism was meaningless spiritually3:54 - Getting truly saved at age 144:21 - Realizing the first baptism didn't count4:34 - Romans 6:1-4: The meaning of baptism explained5:30 - Baptism as a sign and picture of spiritual reality5:57 - When the sign means nothing: Getting wet vs. being baptized6:36 - Why it's not "baptized again" but "baptized for the first time"7:10 - The call to be baptized now as a believerKey PointsBaptism Requires Faith: Baptism without genuine faith in Jesus Christ is just getting wet. The spiritual reality must exist before the physical act has any meaning.The Sign vs. The Reality: Baptism is a sign that points to a spiritual reality - dying to sin with Christ and being raised to new life. If the reality hasn't happened, the sign is meaningless.Common Scenario: Many people get baptized before they're truly saved - whether as children, teenagers, or adults who thought they believed but hadn't genuinely trusted Christ.Biblical Foundation: Romans 6:1-4 explains that baptism represents our spiritual death and resurrection with Christ. Paul assumes all believers have been baptized because it's the natural response to salvation.Not "Again" But "For the First Time": If you weren't saved when you were first baptized, you weren't really baptized at all - you just got wet. True baptism happens when you're baptized as a genuine believer.Personal Responsibility: Even if you were baptized due to family pressure, church tradition, or personal decision before salvation, you need to be baptized as a believer to properly signify what God has done in your heart.The Picture of Baptism: Going under the water represents death to sin (like Jesus in the tomb), coming up represents resurrection to new life (like Jesus rising from the dead).Scripture ReferencesRomans 6:1-4 - "What shall we say then? Are we to continue in sin that grace may abound? By no means! How can we who died to sin still live in it? Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life." - The meaning and necessity of baptism for believersHave a question you'd like answered? Send it to markedbygrace@fbcjax.com

Feeling disconnected in your church despite being surrounded by people? You're not alone. In this episode of Marked by Grace, Heath Lambert addresses one of the most common struggles in modern church life - cultivating authentic community instead of settling for surface-level acquaintances. Discover the biblical "one another" principle that transforms shallow relationships into deep, meaningful community. Learn why taking personal responsibility for relationships is the key to experiencing the authentic connection you're longing for.Timestamps0:00 - Introduction: Authentic community in a big church0:39 - The question: How to cultivate true community vs. acquaintances1:27 - Why this applies to churches of all sizes1:50 - Institutional vs. personal approaches to relationships2:56 - Galatians 6:2 - "Bear one another's burdens"3:16 - The "one another" passages in the New Testament4:20 - The merry-go-round analogy for biblical relationships5:53 - Why authentic relationships require trading places6:23 - The selfish approach to relationships (and why it fails)7:35 - Taking personal responsibility for relational investment8:16 - You don't need permission to serve others9:04 - Practical steps: listening, serving, investing in people9:32 - The principle: Those who invest most receive the greatest return10:20 - Personal example: Medical troubles revealing relational investmentKey PointsThe "One Another" Principle: The New Testament contains dozens of "one another" commands - bear, love, serve, teach, encourage one another. These form the foundation of authentic Christian community.The Merry-Go-Round Model: Healthy relationships require people to "trade places" - sometimes you're the one being served (sitting on the merry-go-round), sometimes you're the one serving (pushing the merry-go-round).Common Relationship Problem: Often people who complain about lack of community are being selfish - waiting for others to invest in them instead of taking initiative to invest in others.Personal Responsibility: You don't need permission to take relational responsibility. You can start serving, encouraging, and investing in others immediately.The Investment Principle: Those who make the biggest relational investments typically receive the greatest return - but this shouldn't be the motivation for serving.Practical Action Steps: Start listening to others, serve people's needs, and make genuine investments in their lives rather than waiting for others to initiate.Long-term Perspective: When you consistently invest in others, you build a community that will support you when you need it most.Scripture ReferencesGalatians 6:2 - "Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ." - The foundation for authentic communityVarious "One Another" Passages - Throughout the New Testament, believers are commanded to love one another, serve one another, teach one another, encourage one another, and bear with one another.Have a question you'd like answered? Send it to markedbygrace@fbcjax.com

Pastor Heath Lambert examines whether the American Revolution was biblically justified, combining Christian theology with American history. Perfect for July 4th discussions about faith, patriotism, and Romans 13's teaching on government authority.TIMESTAMPS0:00 - Introduction: Revolution and Faith for July 4th1:07 - The Question: Were the Founding Fathers Sinful to Rebel?2:11 - The Complexity: Widespread Colonial Support Including Churches3:29 - Old North Church Example: Churches Supporting Revolution4:54 - Biblical Context: New Testament Isn't a Revolution Manual6:08 - Romans 13: Submit to Governing Authorities7:50 - The Qualification: When Government Fails Its Purpose9:11 - Biblical Justification: Government Must Serve Good, Not Evil9:49 - Practical Justification: Colonies Tried Peaceful Appeals First10:30 - Key Distinction: Replacing Bad Government with Better Government11:01 - Conclusion: Revolution Not Forbidden When Biblically JustifiedKEY POINTSWidespread Colonial Support: The desire for independence wasn't limited to political leaders - it included preachers and churches. The Old North Church's role in Paul Revere's signal demonstrates how local congregations actively supported the rebellion against England.New Testament Purpose: The Bible isn't written to promote political revolution but to advance the gospel. Christians shouldn't look to Scripture as a manifesto for independence, though biblical principles can inform political decisions.Romans 13 and Government's Role: Government is instituted by God to reward good conduct and punish evil. When rulers become "a terror to good conduct" and fail to serve as "God's servant for your good," the biblical foundation for absolute submission is undermined.Biblical Justification for Revolution: The Founding Fathers had biblical grounds to rebel when the British government stopped protecting good and started punishing it. A government that fails its God-given purpose opens the door for legitimate resistance.Practical Justifications: The colonies exhausted peaceful appeals to the crown and Parliament before resorting to revolution. They sought to replace bad government with better government, not create anarchy.Christian Approach to Revolution: While revolution should never be Christians' main occupation, believers aren't forbidden from working to improve unjust government situations when done biblically and practically.Submit your questions for future episodes to MarkedbyGrace@fbcjax.comSCRIPTURE REFERENCESRomans 13:1-4 - "Let every person be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except from God... he is God's servant for your good" - The biblical foundation for both government submission and the limits of that submission

Navigating family relationships when you disagree with your family's church choice is one of the most challenging situations Christians face. Pastor Heath Lambert provides biblical wisdom for this delicate balance between family loyalty and theological convictions. Using the framework of theological triage, this episode helps believers understand when to compromise, when to stand firm, and how love should guide every decision in church conflicts.TIMESTAMPS0:00 - Introduction: The Family Church Dilemma0:39 - The Question: Attending Unbiblical Churches for Family Unity1:49 - Why This Question Matters: Children and Family Dynamics2:51 - Understanding Biblical vs Unbiblical: Not All Errors Are Equal3:06 - Theological Triage: Primary, Secondary, and Tertiary Issues4:05 - Primary Issues: Salvation-Essential Doctrines4:55 - Secondary Issues: Important but Not Salvation-Critical5:16 - Baptism Example: Baptist vs Presbyterian Practices6:46 - Tertiary Issues: End Times and Christian Disagreements8:17 - The Law of Love: 1 John 4:7 as the Ultimate Guide8:53 - Pride vs Conviction: Testing Our Motivations9:26 - When Love Means Compromise vs When Love Means Standing Firm10:13 - Final Answer: It Depends on Error Type and Love's DirectionKEY POINTSThe Reality of Family Church Conflicts: Christians often find themselves where their theological convictions differ from their family's church choice, creating tension between honoring family and maintaining biblical faithfulness.Theological Triage Framework: Not all biblical errors are equally serious. Churches can be "unbiblical" in different ways requiring different responses - understanding this hierarchy helps believers respond appropriately.Primary Issues - Salvation Essential: Doctrines so central that denying them prevents salvation, like salvation by grace through faith alone. Churches with primary errors should generally be avoided regardless of family pressure.Secondary Issues - Important but Not Salvation-Critical: Matters affecting church practice but not salvation, like baptism methods. Faithful Christians can disagree while remaining in fellowship.Tertiary Issues - Ongoing Christian Disagreements: Matters where good Christians disagree until Christ returns, like millennium details. These shouldn't divide churches or families.The Law of Love as the Ultimate Test: Love for both family and God must guide decisions. Love sometimes requires compromise on preferences, other times demands taking a stand for essential truth.Submit your questions for future episodes to MarkedbyGrace@fbcjax.comSCRIPTURE REFERENCES1 John 4:7 - "Beloved, let us love one another" - The law of love as the guiding principle for all theological and relational decisionsActs 5:29 - "We must obey God rather than men" - Referenced principle for when obedience to God requires standing against family pressure

One of humanity's most persistent theological questions is thoroughly examined in this episode of Marked by Grace. Pastor Heath Lambert tackles the challenging problem of evil and God's goodness, providing three classical Christian responses that have guided believers through centuries of doubt and difficulty. Whether you're wrestling with personal suffering or trying to understand God's character in a broken world, this episode offers biblical clarity on why God can remain perfectly good while allowing evil to exist.TIMESTAMPS0:00 - Introduction: The Persistent Question of Evil and God's Goodness1:08 - The Specific Question: Why Doesn't God Intervene Like We Should?2:08 - Granting the Premise: When Human Inaction Becomes Sin3:21 - God's Perfect Nature: Light with No Darkness4:08 - Response 1: Primary vs Secondary Causes Explained5:24 - Genesis 50:20 - Joseph's Brothers and God's Sovereignty7:27 - The Shakespeare and Hamlet Analogy8:34 - Response 2: All Evil as Judgment Against Human Sinfulness10:27 - Luke 13:5 - Jesus on the Tower of Siloam11:04 - Response 3: The Greater Good - God's Ultimate Plan12:10 - Romans 8:28 - All Things Work Together for Good13:19 - The Cross: Ultimate Example of Good from Evil14:16 - Eternal Perspective: Praising God for His Redemptive PowerKEY POINTS- The Question Explored: If humans are morally obligated to intervene when witnessing evil acts like assault or abuse, how can God witness atrocities daily without intervening and still be considered good and just?- Primary vs Secondary Causes: God operates as the sovereign primary cause behind all events, while humans act as secondary causes. Evil is always chargeable to secondary causes (human sin) never to the primary cause (God). This distinction explains how the same event can have both a sinful human motivation and a righteous divine purpose.- Universal Human Sinfulness: All people live in a fallen world where we deserve judgment, not blessing. The real theological question isn't "Why do bad things happen?" but rather "Why do any good things happen to sinners like us?" Every person deserves divine judgment due to their rebellion against God.- The Greater Good Principle: God's omnipotent righteousness enables Him to bring ultimate good out of every evil situation. This doesn't make evil good, but demonstrates God's power to redeem and transform even the worst circumstances for His glory and our benefit.- The Cross as Ultimate Example: Jesus Christ's crucifixion represents the worst act of victimization in human history, yet God transformed this ultimate evil into the means of salvation for countless people. This demonstrates how God can use even the most horrific events to accomplish his perfect purposes.- Eternal Perspective: In eternity, believers will praise God not despite the suffering that occurred, but because of how He used that suffering to accomplish His glorious redemptive plan. The eternal weight of glory will far exceed any temporary affliction.Submit your questions for future episodes to MarkedByGrace@fbcjax.comSCRIPTURE REFERENCES1 John 1:5 - "God is light and in him is no darkness at all" - Establishes God's perfect, sinless natureGenesis 50:20 - "As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today" - Primary example of primary vs secondary causesLuke 13:5 - Jesus' warning about the tower of Siloam - All people deserve judgment without repentanceRomans 8:28 - "We know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose" - The greater good principle2 Corinthians 4:17 - "This light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison" - Eternal perspective on suffering