The David Spoon Experience

The David Spoon Experience 8-13-24 part 1

A) We continue from Matthew 18:28, in the middle of the parable of the unforgiving debtor. In our previous discussion, we examined the debtor’s situation. Despite his substantial debt, the king showed him compassion and mercy. In this parable, Peter inquires about the frequency of forgiveness, and Jesus contrasts the Kingdom of Heaven with the Kingdom of Men.B) In the Kingdom of Men, the debts we absolve each other of are insignificant compared to the debts that God has forgiven us. To clarify, we incur a moral debt to God when we sin. Jesus emphasizes the disparity between the debt owed to the king and the debt between servants. It’s akin to comparing millions of dollars to thousands. The difference is stark.C) The irony unfolds when a fellow servant is indebted to the pardoned servant. He pleads for mercy, grace, and compassion. However, the individual who has been shown kindness and freed from debt does not reciprocate. In essence, he has been absolved of a massive debt, yet he fails to forgive. The king showed him leniency, but he denies his fellow servant the same. In fact, the forgiven servant unleashes his wrath on the other servant.D) Upon learning of this conduct, the king revokes his mercy, pity, and grace from the first servant. Moreover, the king labels the servant he had forgiven as wicked. The king’s anger flares up. Jesus cautions that if we withhold forgiveness, our Heavenly Father will discipline us. Genuine forgiveness from the heart is required when forgiving our spiritual siblings. God discerns its authenticity.

The David Spoon Experience 8-12-24 part 2

1) In Genesis Chapter 7, verse 1, the day comes when the Lord instructs Noah to enter the ark. It's crucial to comprehend that God informs individuals when it's time to depart. The Lord is aware of all timings. The parable of the ten virgins is relevant here because five of the virgins were prepared for the return of the bridegroom, while the other five were not. No one wants to be left behind, but it's also important not to rush onto the ship prematurely. Hint. Hint.2) God unequivocally states that a variety of animals must be brought onto the ark. In verse 3, God explicitly declares that there must be one male and one female of each species to ensure their survival. It's baffling how humanity can overlook this basic principle. For a species to survive, it requires both a male and a female, whether human or otherwise. There is no other sustainable way. This is a simple fact.3) Genesis 7:4 introduces the concept of forty days and forty nights of rain to eradicate all living things that God has created. Sometimes, to achieve renewal, a thorough cleansing is necessary. This is true for all of us. At times, we need to be cleansed by the water of the Word and the Power of the Spirit to make a fresh start.4) Verses 45-46 state that Noah obeyed the Lord's commands, a wise course of action for us all. Noah was 600 years old when the floodwaters came, and he entered the ark with his wives, sons, and their wives to escape. It's worth noting that this project likely began when Noah was around 500 years old and was completed when he was 600. This project spanned approximately 100 years. It's notable that during these 100 years, God didn't communicate with Noah constantly. Noah simply went about his kingdom work, setting a great example for us all.

The David Spoon Experience 8-12-24 part 1

A) As we delve into 2 Timothy, Chapter 4:1, we understand that this will be the last chapter that Paul will write on Earth. He begins by telling Timothy, "I charge you therefore before God and the Lord Jesus Christ." The intensity of this communication may not be fully grasped, but Paul is laying this out at Timothy's feet, saying, "This is important, and I'm telling you this before God, the Father, and our Lord Jesus Christ. So, pay close attention."B) Paul then refers to the truth that God will judge the living and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom. It should be clearly noted that when the Lord returns, there will be both the living and the dead. Judgment will come upon all, regardless of their position or stature. The distinction for Christians is that the penalty has already been paid.C) Paul's command is specific: "Preach the word." The enemy, the world, and people's flesh will attempt to belittle the word, trying to render it ineffective, as if it were just a meaningless book written by ignorant people. However, it will be this very book that is used to judge them. Never be ashamed of the word. That's part of our DNA. Interestingly, the next part of our DNA says this: "Be ready in season and out of season." This means to be ready at all times. So, two of the three DNA elements are right here in this one verse.

The David Spoon Experience 8-9-24 part 2

1) Okie dokie, little campers and buckaroos. It’s time for our Friday Devotional Diamonds of the Day with Dr. Dave. We have some real gems today as we explore God’s word together. First up is a DDDDD titled "Enjoying It." Many aspects of Christianity require growth and present challenges in our lives, but often, the joy of the process seems to be missing. So, we will examine the early church’s wisdom on finding favor in life with the Lord.2) Roslyn calls in with a phenomenal testimony from the ministry she received from the praying audience. Last week, she called in after making a decision for her and Robert, but very discouraged. Since that time, the Lord has moved her forward and allowed her to be restored in his joy. She credits and acknowledges her moving forward with the prayers of the people and the gracious answer for our awesome God. Prayer changes people's lives!3) Perhaps the most pointed teaching of the day will come towards the show's end. It’s titled "No Sacrifice Unnoticed." Let’s be honest—many of us have given up things for the Kingdom of God in different ways, shapes, and forms. It’s not the same for everyone because each person is unique. But the level of our sacrifice is important. We can have confidence knowing that no sacrifice goes unnoticed by God, which should comfort us all.

The David Spoon Experience 8-9-24 part 1

A) It's another first on the David Spoon Experience, as David introduces an exciting new segment called "Life Lessons." This segment begins with the endearing sound of "Downer Debbie," played by the talented jamming Jacob, setting the tone for a lesson that is as insightful as it is relatable. In this inaugural segment, David shares a personal experience that unfolded earlier in the day, offering his listeners a valuable teaching moment. B) Proverbs 18:13 states, "It is a fool who answers a matter before he hears it." This profound verse serves as the foundation for the lesson David is about to impart, and it is one that he, unfortunately, learned the hard way. The story begins with David receiving an email that, at first glance, seemed like just another piece of spam. His initial reaction was to dismiss it outright, assuming it was a dubious attempt by Hollywood to spread spiritual deception. Convinced of its lack of authenticity, David didn’t take the time to investigate or properly test the contents of the email. C) In a moment of spontaneity, David decided to respond with a quick and off-the-cuff remark: "Jesus doesn’t like spam, and you should read your Bible." At first blush, this might sound like a bold and righteous response. However, there was just one small problem—David's assumption was completely wrong. The email he had so quickly dismissed was actually from a group of genuine Christians. These were sincere individuals who were seeking prayers for people in the Hollywood and media industries, praying that they might be touched by the Holy Spirit and come to acknowledge Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. D) Realizing his mistake, David was faced with the uncomfortable task of backtracking. He immediately sent a letter of apology, recognizing the error of his ways. This experience led him to reflect on the importance of not jumping to conclusions. In his message to his audience, David emphasized the need for humility when we make mistakes. He taught that when we find ourselves in error, it is crucial to own up to it, confess it, and seek forgiveness from the Lord. Through this process, not only do we learn and grow, but we also align ourselves with the path of righteousness.

The David Spoon Experience 8-8-24 part 2

1) There's a compelling testimony in the scriptures where the storm becomes so severe that they can do nothing but surrender and let it take its course. This mirrors what happened to Noelle and me when we moved to Texas before our radio ministry became a standalone ministry. We were flustered and unable to discern what the Lord wanted. It was only when we relinquished control and surrendered to the Lord that everything changed. Learning to let go is a valuable skill. 2) However, surrendering to the Lord doesn't mean that everything will instantly improve. Sometimes, the storm persists or even intensifies, leading to a sense of dwindling hope. This is when our relationship with God serves as our anchor. "Why are you so downcast, oh my soul? Put your hope in God." This is the response we're called to have. Remember this.

The David Spoon Experience 8-8-24 part 1

A) Returning to the Book of Revelation, we find ourselves in Chapter 1, Verse 4. John is now sending his letter to the seven churches in Asia. As previously mentioned, this represents a circuit in the sense that one would travel from one city to the next, completing a journey.B) The rest of Verse 4 states, "Grace to you and peace from Him who is, and was, and is to come." We could spend centuries contemplating this. In this passage, you'll see the Trinity, but this immediate reference is to the Father. In regards to the Father, "He is" signifies the present tense, "He was" the past tense, and "is to come" the future tense. Shortly, we'll see that this is not Jesus, but the Father. What's amazing is that God is an interlinear being.C) Next, we have the Holy Spirit. The verse says, "And from the seven spirits who are before His throne." As we've mentioned before, the number seven is repetitive throughout the Book of Revelation. Most often, seven signifies perfection or completeness, much like the seven days that complete a week. The Holy Spirit is before the throne, with the Father and the Son, acknowledged so at the beginning of this book. Let's not diminish His position and bring blasphemy to the Trinity.D) Finally, we see Jesus Christ identified in this way: "And from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, the ruler over the kings of the Earth." There are three significant definitions here. Jesus was faithful in His witness and declaration of who God is. Jesus is the firstborn from the dead, never to die again. And Jesus is the ruler over the kings of the earth. So, every time you think a kingdom is usurping authority beyond God's comprehension or control, you would be mistaken.

The David Spoon Experience 8-7-24 part 2

1) Christian faith often seems to turn the world upside down. To truly live, we must die to ourselves; to receive, we must give; to see, we must believe. And to understand success from a biblical perspective, we must do what God asks without questioning His will at every turn.2) It’s a bit sad that we often have such little faith. God created the universe, placed us on a beautiful planet, and blessed us with His grace, life, and kindness. Despite our sins, He made way for salvation through Jesus Christ, a plan set before the creation of the world, promising eternal life, as mentioned in Titus 1:2. Yet, our faith falters. May the Lord help us to see His love and walk by faith, not by sight. We really need to live by the “Yes, Lord” code.

The David Spoon Experience 8-7-24 part 1

A) In another twist on The David Spoon Experience, our dear brother Sampson calls in to share about his sister's funeral and how God's graciousness was involved. He also wants to thank all of the radio show listeners for their prayers, concerns, and love for him and his family. B) David launches from this portion to talk about how closely connected Jesus is to each one of us. We often think of Jesus as Lord and more in the Divinity concept, but we must remember that Jesus is fully human as well and shares and bears our pain, no matter how big or small. David also talks about how the radio show is a community, a family and a fellowship. C) When we're hurting, the Lord cares about how things are going and wants us to understand that He is with us. That doesn't mean that we won't experience pain, but it does mean we don't have to be alone while we experience it.D) Jesus weeps for us when we're hurting and rejoices with us when we're doing well in the Kingdom of God. He is so closely connected to us that how we feel is something He directly identifies with. We are never alone because of Jesus.

The David Spoon Experience 8-6-24 part 2

1) Hold on to your hat as we jump back into Romans, chapter six, starting with verse one. The apostle Paul asks this question: Should we keep on sinning so that God can show us more and more kindness and forgiveness? The emphatic response is, of course, not. This is a great place to insert the truth that the ends do not justify the means. From a human perspective, without much consideration or thought, people think we will do whatever it takes to get our desired response. Unless you’re God, that’s not how it operates.2) The whole premise is to understand that we’ve died to sin. So, let’s make this as clear as can be: Jesus paid for the penalty of sin—that’s justification. Jesus defeated the power of sin—that’s sanctification. Jesus will once and for all defeat the presence of sin—that’s glorification. In the process of Jesus defeating sin, through sanctification, sin no longer has the same power over us or owns us.3) Baptism, from the majority of the evangelical church, is understood as a symbolic connection to the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Rightly so. Unfortunately, too many in the evangelical church have reduced its importance, which is a sad testimony. The physical act of being baptized gives us a direct action and realization of our connection to Jesus. Jesus commanded baptism for his followers, and the benefits of baptism include identifying with our ability to break with the power of the old man.4) Brother Samson calls in with devastating news regarding his family. He shares that his younger sister has also passed away within 10 days of his older sister. He expresses his deep appreciation for everyone's prayers and ends up praying with Dave at the end, calling out for mercy and grace to the God of comfort. By his own admission, he knows God has a perfect plan, but sometimes, because we don't see it, it hurts. That's real Christian living.

The David Spoon Experience 8-6-24 part 1

A) We delve back into Matthew, starting with chapter 18, verse 21. This is where Peter asks, “How many times should I forgive the one who sins against me?” At this point, the disciples are beginning to understand that they need to operate on the principle of forgiveness continually. They want to explore the parameters - how far does it extend? How deep does it go? How often should it occur? B) In his question, Peter proposes a number. He asks Jesus if forgiving someone seven times is sufficient. What we must understand about the text is that Peter is seeking a limit. Jesus’ response to Peter acknowledges two general translations: 70 times 7 and 77 times. Those who believe that the actual number is either 490 or 77 are operating under the same misconception as Peter. They are missing the point. C) Jesus likens the kingdom of heaven to a king who decides to settle his accounts with his servants who have borrowed money from him. The borrowed money must be accounted for. Interestingly, the text mentions that the king decided it was time for their accounts to be up-to-date. This is the unavoidable fact that God will call every human being to account for their lives. D) One of the individuals involved had an enormous debt that he couldn’t repay. The king ordered that his wife, children, and all he owned be sold to pay the debt. Essentially, accounting for this person’s indebtedness would strip him of everything. Despite his inability to pay, the man fell before the king, begging for mercy and patience and promising to repay everything. Recognizing that the man could not actually repay the debt, the king released him from it altogether. This is the first part of the story, and it can be likened to Peter and the king of the universe or to you and I and the king of the universe. Either way, the debt cannot be repaid by our own efforts. 

The David Spoon Experience 8-5-24 part 2

1) In Genesis 6:17, the Lord informs Noah that the time has come for a flood to cover the Earth and destroy every living thing. Despite this, God solemnly pledges to ensure Noah's safety in the ark. This pledge extends not only to Noah but also to his wife, children, and in-laws. It is a testament to God's commitment to our safety and well-being, promising protection and redemption.2) God further instructs Noah to bring a pair of every kind of animal, both male and female, into the ark to keep them alive during the flood. This directive underscores the natural order of life, which is sustained through the union of males and females. It’s not males and males, and it’s not females and females. And nothing in humanity is binary. That’s ignorance. Only a real male and a real female can produce real offspring. Nature clearly teaches this.