In this powerful year-end message from December 29, 1991, we are reminded that God is not only a God of righteousness and judgment—but also a God of mercy, love, and redemption.

Drawing from the story of Jonah and Nineveh, the prophetic promises of the Old Testament, and the fulfillment of those promises in Jesus Christ, this message traces the unfolding plan of salvation from Israel’s history to the present day. It confronts misplaced expectations of a political Messiah and reveals the true purpose of Christ’s coming: to provide a substitute, a Savior, and the gift of eternal life.

This episode also looks ahead—examining biblical prophecy, the regathering of Israel, global political alignments, and the urgency of the gospel in a rapidly changing world. As history and Scripture converge, believers are reminded that now is the time to respond to God’s mercy and proclaim His salvation.

📝 Show Notes

• The clarity of Old Testament prophecy concerning the Messiah
• Why Israel expected a political deliverer instead of a suffering Savior
• Jonah and Nineveh: the greatest revival recorded in Scripture
• God’s mercy toward even those who deserve judgment
• Jesus Christ as both fully God and fully man
• Salvation as a gift—not something earned or deserved
• The role of blood, substitution, and redemption
• Israel’s scattering and miraculous preservation as a people
• The modern regathering of Israel and its prophetic significance
• Global instability and the urgency of the gospel
• Biblical prophecy, the Tribulation, and Christ’s return
• A call to repentance, faith, and trust in Jesus Christ

In this powerful Christmas message, we are reminded that when God makes a promise, He always keeps His word. In Episode 94 of the Legacy Bible Podcast, we explore Jesus’ declaration in Luke chapter 4, where He reads from Isaiah 61 and reveals the purpose of His coming: to preach good news to the poor in spirit, heal the brokenhearted, set captives free, give sight to the blind, and proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord.

This message unfolds the heart of the gospel—Jesus did not come merely to reform lives, but to bring true salvation and deliverance from sin. Through Scripture, prophecy, and the testimony of Christ’s miracles, we see how Jesus fulfilled every promise God made concerning the Savior. His works point to His authority to forgive sins and to give eternal life.

As we reflect on the incarnation of Christ, we are called to respond in faith, recognizing that now is the day of salvation. This episode proclaims the hope, joy, and assurance found in Jesus alone—the One who came to save His people from their sins and bring us into the light and glory of God.

In Episode 93 of the Legacy Bible Podcast, we return to a powerful sermon delivered on December 15, 1991, by Rev. Chuck Rains. Centering on Luke 1:68–79 — the prophetic declaration of Zechariah — this message emphasizes one great truth: God always keeps His promises.

Pastor Rains weaves Scripture, personal testimony, and biblical theology to highlight how God’s faithfulness spans generations. From the ancient promise of a Savior in Genesis, to the covenant affirmed through Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and David, and ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ, God has proven Himself perfectly trustworthy.

This episode also explores the promise of the Spirit, the seal and assurance given to every believer. Through heartfelt stories — including childhood memories of waiting for his father’s promises — Pastor Rains reminds us that the God who has spoken is the God who will fulfill every word He has declared.

A rich, encouraging message for anyone needing renewed confidence in God’s unfailing Word.

📝 Show Notes

Scripture Focus:

• Luke 1:68–79
• Genesis 3:15–16
• Galatians 3:14
• Ephesians 1:13–14
• 1 John 3:24

Themes Covered:

• God’s faithfulness across generations
• The prophetic song of Zechariah
• The promise of salvation foretold in the Old Testament
• The Holy Spirit as the seal of God’s promise
• Salvation through the mercy and light of Christ
• Personal reflections on trust and expectation
• Assurance of salvation through the indwelling Spirit

Key Takeaways:

• God’s promises are certain — He cannot lie.
• The arrival of Christ is the fulfillment of the earliest biblical promises.
• Believers receive the Holy Spirit by faith, as part of God’s covenant promise.
• Evidence of the Spirit’s presence includes new desires: love for God, His Word, His people, and His righteousness.
• God’s mercy is offered freely to all who call upon Christ.

In this episode, Pastor Chuck Rains walks us through Genesis 30–32, highlighting the dramatic tension between Jacob’s flawed character and God’s unwavering faithfulness. Although Jacob relies on deception, superstition, and self-effort, God continues to uphold His promise to bless, protect, and guide him.

Topics Covered:

1. Jacob’s “Dry Ingredients”: Human Failure

• Jacob’s self-centeredness and deceit
• Using manipulation to gain advantage
• Pagan influences in his household
• Superstitious practices (mandrakes, striped sticks)
• Trusting in human effort rather than God

2. The Consequences of Jacob’s Choices

• Jealousy and rivalry among his wives
• Bitterness, envy, and conflict
• Tension with Laban and Laban’s sons
• Immense fear of Esau’s return
• Jacob’s attempts to “manage outcomes” through schemes

3. God’s Unchanging Faithfulness

• God’s protection despite Jacob’s errors
• Multiplying Jacob’s family and flocks apart from superstition
• Preventing harm during Laban’s pursuit
• Promising Jacob’s safe return to the land
• The presence of angels as reassurance

4. The Turning Point: Wrestling at Jabbok

• Jacob finally isolated and without control
• Wrestling with the angel until daybreak
• God forcing Jacob to confront his self-reliance
• A dislocated hip becomes a symbol of surrender
• Jacob begins learning what true dependence on God means

5. The Big Takeaway

Jacob’s story is a mirror to our own: Even when our choices produce pain, God’s promises remain certain. His faithfulness is not based on our performance, but on His character.

Rev. Chuck Rains delivers a rich and challenging message from November 24, 1991, centered on James 1:17–18 and the truth that every good and perfect gift comes only from God. Using the life of Jacob as a vivid illustration of human weakness, fleshly choices, and God’s persistent grace, this sermon calls believers to examine their walk and rediscover where true blessing originates.

Rev. Rains unpacks what it means to be “firstfruits of His creatures”—recipients of God’s best, saved by His Word, and called to reflect His glory. He contrasts the works of the flesh with the fruit of the Spirit, challenges self-reliance, and encourages the church to rest in the faithfulness, goodness, and unchanging character of God.

A timely message for every believer seeking to walk in the Spirit, live with gratitude, and trust God for both daily provision and eternal promises.

📝 Show Notes

Primary Scripture References:

• James 1:17–18 — Every good and perfect gift comes from above; believers are the firstfruits of God’s creation.
• Titus 3:5–7 — Salvation by the washing and renewal of the Holy Spirit, not by works.
• John 1:1–14 — Jesus as the Word who gives life.
• 1 Corinthians 15 — Christ as the firstfruits of the resurrection.
• Genesis 29–30 — Jacob’s family conflicts, fleshly decisions, and God’s grace.
• Galatians 5:16–26 — Works of the flesh vs. walking in the Spirit.
• Ephesians 5:1–5 — Walking as children of God.

Key Themes:

• God Alone Gives Goodness True blessing does not come from the world, personal effort, or the enemy’s lies—but from God Himself.
• The Deception of Self-Reliance Jacob’s life shows the danger of trying to build a blessed life through flesh, manipulation, or striving.
• Believers as “Firstfruits” Christians display God’s glory uniquely, receiving the fullness of His love, righteousness, and promises.
• The Works of the Flesh Sexual sin, spiritual rebellion, and selfish ambition all hinder the believer’s life in God.
• Walking in the Spirit The only path to victory, blessing, and the fullness of life Jesus promised in John 10:10.
• Gratitude as God’s Will “In everything give thanks”—because every good thing originates in Him.

Episode Highlights:

• Why the world can’t offer true goodness—even when it promises it.
• How Satan deceives through empty “good things.”
• Jacob’s failures and God’s persistent mercy.
• Why love is always a choice, not just an emotion or circumstance.
• The difference between outward blessing and inward transformation.
• How to recognize the works of the flesh in your own life.
• What it means to walk in the Spirit daily.
• Learning to trust God’s promises rather than your own strength.
• The believer’s calling to reflect God’s glory as “firstfruits.”
• Encouragement to cultivate thanksgiving in every season.

In this message from November 17, 1991, Rev. Chuck Rains continues the study of Jacob’s life — a man walking a 21-year path of striving, frustration, and self-reliance. Through Jacob’s experiences with Laban and his impulsive choices at the well, we’re reminded of the emptiness of doing things our own way, even when our intentions seem good. Rev. Rains draws a powerful parallel to modern faith struggles — urging believers to trust God’s timing and foundation rather than their emotions or desires. The episode concludes with a moving real-life example of the cost of setting aside God’s counsel and the redemption found in returning to His will.

“You can’t find happiness on your terms — only on God’s terms.”

Show Notes

Scripture Focus:

• Genesis 29 — Jacob’s meeting with Rachel
• 2 Corinthians 6:14–18 — “Do not be unequally yoked…”
• 1 Corinthians 6:19–20; 7:39 — Our bodies as temples, living “in the Lord”

Key Themes:

• Jacob’s 21-year journey as a portrait of self-willed living
• Acting in emotion vs. walking in faith
• The danger of “good intentions” outside of God’s foundation
• Unequal yokes: spiritual consequences of disobedience
• God’s mercy in redeeming failure and restoring purpose

Memorable Quote:

“You can’t find happiness except in the One who is the author of it — the Lord Himself.”

Application Points:

1. Don’t rationalize disobedience — even “good” actions can be wrong if the motive isn’t from faith.
2. Emotions are gifts from God, but never meant to drive our decisions.
3. Trust God’s foundation — His counsel never robs you of joy; it preserves it.
4. It’s never too late to return to God’s will — He redeems even wasted years.

In this sermon from November 3, 1991, Rev. Chuck Rains explores the story of Jacob’s deception of Isaac and the profound spiritual truths woven through it. From Rebekah’s conspiracy to Jacob’s blasphemy, we see how human deceit and divine sovereignty intersect — and how God’s promises remain steadfast despite man’s failures. Rev. Rains challenges listeners to examine their own faith: are we trusting God’s promises in righteousness and surrender, or attempting to secure blessings by our own schemes?

📝 Show Notes

• Scripture Focus: Genesis 27–28; Luke 1:30–33; Zechariah 14; 1 Corinthians 15; Revelation 20
• Key Themes:
  • The deceit of Jacob and Rebekah: a conspiracy against Isaac.
  • The nature of blasphemy — crediting the works of the flesh to God.
  • “One thing thou lackest” — the rich young ruler’s failure of faith.
  • God’s promises to Jacob and their fulfillment in Christ.
  • The blessing of Israel and the eternal reign of Jesus over all the earth.
  • Faith over works: the futility of “making deals” with God.
• Takeaway: God’s purposes are never accomplished through deceit or self-effort but through faith, surrender, and righteousness. His promises stand firm, fulfilled perfectly in Jesus Christ.

In this episode, Rev. Chuck Rains teaches from Genesis 27, exploring the story of Jacob and Esau and the deception that changed the course of biblical history. As Isaac’s physical vision fades, his spiritual discernment is also clouded—creating an opportunity for deceit to flourish. Yet, even through human weakness and sin, God’s sovereign plan continues unhindered.

Pastor Rains draws deep parallels between Isaac’s misplaced trust in his senses and our own tendency to walk by sight rather than by faith. He challenges believers to trust God’s timing and methods instead of manipulating outcomes through human effort.

Key Themes

• The consequences of favoritism and division within families
• Deception and the cost of pursuing blessings the wrong way
• The contrast between walking by faith and living by flesh
• God’s sovereignty in using imperfect people to fulfill His purposes
• The importance of spiritual discernment over physical perception

Scripture Reference

📖 Genesis 27:1–29

Notable Quotes

“Satan takes advantage of our every weakness — but when we walk by faith, he has no victory.”

“God’s blessings are never gained through deceit. They are received through trust and obedience.”

“Isaac’s eyes were dim, but his faith should have been clear.”

Takeaway

Even when our faith falters and our motives are mixed, God’s redemptive plan continues to unfold. The story of Jacob reminds us that God can redeem even the deceiver — transforming him into Israel, the father of a nation.

Thanks to elevenlabs.ai for the ai voice Brian at the beginning of this podcast.

Please come back next week for another sermon from the tape archives of the Fellowship Bible Church.