Scripture: Colossians 3:5-17

As Israel crossed the Jordan River, God commanded them to gather twelve stones as a lasting reminder of His presence and provision. This message challenges believers today to leave behind a testimony of God’s goodness so future generations will know who He is and what He has done.

This sermon highlights four realities of the believer’s life in Christ: pursuing heavenly things, setting our minds above, resting in our secure position with Christ, and living with the promise of His glorious return.

If Jesus has changed your life, He should also shape the way you live it.

Through Scripture and eyewitness testimony, we see the reality of the empty tomb and the power of the gospel.

Because He lives, our hope goes beyond this life.

This sermon reminds us that all wisdom, knowledge, and completeness are found in Jesus alone, and calls believers to walk in Christ, grow in Christ, and abound in Christ with thankful hearts.

Jesus is the Creator of all things, the One who holds everything together, the Head of the Church, and the only One who can reconcile sinful man to a holy God through the blood of His cross.

From creation… to the church… to the gospel itself—Jesus truly is the center of it all.

In this message from Colossians, we see that Christ is not merely important — He is preeminent. He is the image of the invisible God, Creator of all things, Head of the Church, and the only One who reconciles sinners to God through the blood of His cross.

From creation to the church to salvation — Jesus is the Center of it All.

Is He first place in your life?

Looking back to the early church in Acts 2, we’re reminded that God’s design hasn’t changed: a faithful, Spirit-filled body grounded in doctrine, fellowship, worship, and prayer. Though challenges are real, so are the possibilities—and Jesus promised His church will prevail.

Are you just attending church, or truly part of what God is building?

Jesus reveals that while God sovereignly reigns over the world, His field currently contains both wheat and weeds—believers and unbelievers—growing side by side. Though they may look alike for a season, a day of harvest is coming when God will bring a final and righteous separation.

This sermon explores:

1. The meaning of the Kingdom of Heaven in the world today
2. The Savior’s wheat and Satan’s weeds
3. Why believers are not called to uproot the weeds
4. The certainty of a coming harvest and eternal consequences
5. The hope and future glory promised to the children of the Kingdom

Reminder: there are only two kingdoms, two kinds of people, and two eternal destinies. Our calling is not to judge the field, but to faithfully sow the gospel and trust God with the harvest.

In this message preached at Central Baptist Church on Sunday, January 11, 2026, we walk through two powerful parables from Mark 4:26–32 where Jesus compares the Kingdom of God to seed sown into the ground and to a tiny mustard seed that grows into something far greater than anyone could imagine.

This sermon explores:

1. The Mystery of the Kingdom — how the gospel grows in ways we cannot fully explain, reminding us that salvation is God’s work, not ours.
2. The Magnitude of the Kingdom — how something that begins small and seemingly insignificant becomes expansive, influential, and life-giving.
3. Our responsibility as believers to faithfully sow the seed of the gospel and trust God with the results.
4. The assurance that God’s Kingdom provides shelter, protection, and hope for all who come under its shadow.

Whether you are a believer needing encouragement to keep sowing, or someone curious about the power and reach of God’s Kingdom, this message points us to the confidence, peace, and urgency found in the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Mark 4:1–9

In this message from Mark 4, Jesus’ Parable of the Sower shifts the focus from the seed to the soil—the condition of the human heart. While the Word of God is powerful, living, and unchanging, its fruitfulness depends on how it is received.

This sermon explores four heart conditions Jesus identifies: the calloused, conditional, crowded, and cultivated heart. Speaking to both unbelievers and believers, the message challenges listeners to examine how God’s Word is shaping their lives and whether it is producing spiritual fruit.

A call to self-examination and spiritual renewal, this message urges every listener to cultivate a heart that hears, receives, and responds to the Word of God.

“He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.”

In this message, we explore Simeon’s character, hope, praise, and prophecy, and we’re reminded that Jesus came not only as Israel’s comfort, but as a light to the Gentiles and the Savior of the world. Whether the past year brought joy or hardship, this passage points us to the sure hope, comfort, and assurance found in Christ alone.

From Luke 2:1–11, this message reminds us that Christmas is more than a familiar story—it is God’s answer to humanity’s greatest need. After centuries of silence and waiting, the angel’s announcement to the shepherds declared good tidings of great joy: a Savior had been born.

This sermon explores why we need a Savior, tracing the problem of sin back to the Garden of Eden, and reveals the realities of who Jesus is—the Sinless, Selfless, Sacrificial, and Sufficient Savior. Born in humility yet fully God, Jesus came to rescue sinners and provide eternal redemption through His death on the cross.

The message concludes with a clear call to respond: Have you been saved? Have you called on Christ the Lord? Discover the hope, joy, and life found in the good news that unto you is born a Savior, which is Christ the Lord.

From Isaiah 9:6 and Philippians 2:9, we’re reminded why Jesus is our Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace.

If you’re battling anxious thoughts or carrying a heavy heart, this message will point you to the God who holds you up, defends you, and delights your soul.

Whether you're feeling strong in faith or struggling to hold on, this episode will encourage you to trust in God’s provision, power, and purpose for your life.

“Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.” I Corinthians 15:58

“Pray for the peace of Jerusalem” Psalm 122:6

Listen to our latest sermon on Apple, Google, Amazon, Spotify or cbckannapolis.com/listen.

2. A river lives a giving life. 

3. An obstruction always makes the river deeper and wider.

4. A river brings forth fruit.

5. Nothing can stop a river.

Walking with Jesus is the answer for doubt and discouragement!

Walking with Jesus by abiding in His word opens our eyes to who He is! Confirms in our hearts that He is our Lord and Savior!

Its time we begin walking with Jesus!

I. The Prophecies of the King

II. The Praise of the King

III. The Pity of the King

I. The Determination of Jesus

II. The Distractions From Jesus

To find out more about Central Baptist Church, visit our website at cbckannapolis.com.

John 3:1-15

Title: You must be born again

A. Religion is not enough

B. Rebirth is essential

C. Rebirth explained

cbckannapolis.com

I. The Attitude of the Church vs. 17

A. The Church's Perception vs. 17a

B. The Church's Reality vs. 17b

II. Jesus' Advice to the Church vs. 18

A. Be Righteous vs. 18

B. Be Zealous vs. 19b

C. Repent vs. 19

III. Jesus' Invitation vs. 20

I. Two Builders

A. The obedient builder vs. 24

B. The disobedient builder vs. 26

II. One Storm

A. Rain and Floods vs. 27

B. Winds vs. 27

III. Two Results

A. A house preserved vs. 25

B. A house destroyed vs. 27

I. The believers has a promise. vs. 28

A. All things are not Good. vs. 18-25

B. All things work together for Good! vs. 28

II. God has a purpose. vs. 28

A. God's purpose is transformation. vs 29

B. God's purpose is destination. vs 30

III. We have a proclamation. vs. 31

A Member Receives the Gift of Salvation: Ephesians 2:8

A Member Receives the Call to Serve: I Peter 4:10

I. The Diversity of Members...vs.12

II. The Equipping of Members...I Corinthians 12:4-6

III. The Importance of Members

A. You are a profitable member.

B. You are a providential member.

C. You are a purposeful member.

D. You are a powerful member.

1. Question: One key to “Exceeding Abundantly” is when you get your answer from God, what are going to do with it?

2. Statement: Another key is God not only answers our payers but He gives “exceeding abundantly”  to us. 

3. Source:  How do we get to this “exceeding abundantly,” best place in the world?

    Exceeding abundantly means your banks are overflowing.

4. Application: Paul’s prayer is that God would grant to us according to the riches of His glory.

That we would now understand the source of God’s pure love, 2 Corinthians 13:11

We now understand we love God because He first loved us. 1 John 4:17

Love is the evidence of saving faith in Jesus. 1 John 4:19

Love is the royal badge of true discipleship. John 13:35

Love is the assurance that we have passed for death unto life. 1 John 3:14

The love of God in our heart is unmerited. Colossians 1:12-14

The love of God is the most costly thing known to Heaven or earth. Ephesians 1:7

The love of God is free to all who will receive it. Romans 3:24-25 

The love of God is universal in its offer. John 3:16

The love of God is unbounded in its work. Ephesians 2:4

The love of God is great. Ephesians 2:4

The love of God is inconceivable. Ephesians 3:19

The love of God is forever unselfish. 1 John 4:10

The love of God is forever unchanging. John 13:1.

The love of God is inseparable. Romans 8:35-39

The love of God is everlasting. Jeremiah 31:3

The love of God is perfect. 1 John 4:18

The Holy Spirit describes the love of Christ as:

The love of Christ is unknowable. Ephesians 3:19

The riches of Christ are un searchable. Ephesians 3:8

The joy He gives is unspeakable. Romans 11:33

The ways of Christ are un-trackable. Romans 11:33

The grace of the Lord Jesus is inexhaustible. 2 Corinthians 9:8

The peace of Christ is unfathomable. Philippians 4:7

Jesus Christ Himself is unsurpassable. Exodus 15:11

I. Respond to God's Plan. 8:25-26

II. Recognize God's Providence. 8:27-31

III. Be Ready to Preach. 8:34

I. Church is a Priority when we are confident of our salvation

A. Believers should have a confident faith. I John 5:13, Romans 10:9-13

B. Believers should have a continuing faith. Hebrews 10:23

II. Church is a Priority when we are concerned about the saints. Hebrews 10:24, Acts 2:47

A. Are you concerned enough to provoke the saints? Hebrews 10:24, Proverbs 27:17

B. Are you concerned enough to pray for the saints? Acts 2:42, James 5:16

III. Church is a Priority because the coming of the Savior. Hebrews 10:25, I Thessalonians 5:1-13, 11

I. The Family is Foundational to Civilization

A. The Family is Foundational in the Creation of Civilization vs 28, Gen. 2:7; Gen. 1:28

B. The Family is Foundational to the Continuation of Civilization. Gen. 9:1

II. The Family is Fundamental to Success

A. The Family is Fundamental to Social Success. Proverbs 29:18

Genesis 1&2 God's Design for the family

Ephesians 5:22-6:4 Family Structure

B. The Family is Fundamental to Spiritual Success

I. The Decision to Follow

A. Responding to the Savior.

B. Rejecting Self. Matthew 16:24-26

II. The Desire to Follow

A. The Desire to follow His Word. I Peter 2:2-3

B. The Desire to follow His Ways. I John 2:6

III. The Discipline to Follow. Acts 2:42

A. Bible Study: II Timothy 2:15

B. Fellowship: Hebrews 10:24-25

C. Prayer: I Thessalonians 5:17

I. The Desire to Worship

II. The Distraction to Worship

III. The Decision to Worship

I. The Reason for the Gift. John 3:16a

II. The Revelation of the Gift. John 3:16b

III. The Recipient of the Gift. John 3:16c

A. The person who receives salvation "Whosoever". Romans 10:13. II Peter 3:9

B. The plan of salvation "Believes in Him" Ephesians 2:8

C. The promise of salvation "Will not perish, but have everlasting life." John 3:16,

I Thessalonians 4:13-18

**II Corinthians 9:15 "Thanks be unto God for His unspeakable gift!"

Three Realities concerning Biblical Peace:

I. Peace is Essential. John 16:33

A. Peace is essential spiritually. John 16:33a

B. Peace is essential practically. John 16:33b

II. Peace has been Extended. Luke 2:10-11

III. Peace can be Experienced. John 16:33, John 14:27

A. Peace with God. Romans 5:1, James 2:23

B. The Peace of God Philippians 4:7

Psalm 23

I. Present Joy Psalm 118:24

A. Victory over sin Romans 6:23

B. Victory through circumstances I Peter 1:6, Philippians 4:11

II. Prospective Joy.

Psalm 30:5

John 16:20-22

Romans 5:2

Conclusion: 

Joy to the world; the Lord is come; Let Earth receive her King;

Let ev'ry Heart prepare him room, And Heav'n and nature sing.

• For a child of God, joy is who we are!  Victory!
• Gospel: You can have joy too!
• Present Joy because victory over sin & victory through circumstances
• Prospective Joy because of the promise of Jesus’r return and an eternity with Him in Heaven! 

1. The Voice from behind.

A. What does the voice say?

God does not turn His back on us.

B. God has not turned his back on you.

2. The message from behind.

A. What is the message?  This is the way, it is the only way, 

B. No substitute will do! Turning to the right or left won’t do.

1Th 5:16-18  Rejoice evermore.Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

I. The Decision of the church. vs 1

II. The Devotion of the Church vs 3

A. Devotion to Prayer vs 4

B. Devotion to Preaching vs 4

III. The Duty of the Church

A. The Deacon's Call vs 3

B. The Deacon's Qualifications vs 6

Conclusion:

7 And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith.

Central Baptist Church of Kannapolis celebrates 75 years of making disciples of Christ.

Former pastor of 38 years Rev. Curtis Parker preached from the pulpit a challenging message from God's Word. Preacher Parker also gave insight from his years of pastoring at Central and also some history prior to him becoming pastor.

Central Baptist Church is proud of its past and present Pastors as they have preached and are still preaching the whole counsel of God unashamedly using the Holy Word of God as its foundation.

Revival: "an improvement in the condition or strength of something"

I. The need for Revival in the Church vs. 1

A. The realities of War vs 2-3

B. Our relationship with World Vs 4; I John 2:15-16

II. The Necessities for Revival in the Church

A. Submit to God. vs 7

B. Draw Near to God.

Draw near to God in prayer

Draw near to God in His Word

Draw near to God in Fellowship with believers

C. Cleanse Yourself vs 8b

D. Be Sorrowful vs 9

E. Humble Yourself vs 10

Sharing Hope...Changing Lives

Baptist Children's Homes of North Carolina

Jim Edminson - Editor of Charity and Children

“Citizen” -“a native or naturalized person who owes allegiance to government and is entitled to protection from it”

I. Admission to the Kingdom 

• Question: How do we become citizens of the Kingdom of God?
• There are two ways to become a citizen of America: 1. Be born in America; 2. Naturalization 
• Reality: There is only one way to become a citizen of the Kingdom of God
• You must be born… again! John 3:3

II. Allegiance to the King- Matthew 6:24, 6:33, 16:24-25

III. Abiding in the Kingdom- Luke 19:13, John 15:4-5

A. Our Patience as a Citizen Psalm 37:7, Romans 12:12

B. Our Provision as a Citizen Matthew 8:19-20, Philippians 4:19, Matthew 6:33

C. Our Promise as a Citizen Philippians 3:20-21, I John 2:28, Revelation 21:1-5

I. The Kingdom of the King (Part 1 podcast 167)

II. The King of the Kingdom

A. The Prophecies of the King

-Jesus' Birth: Micah 5:2/Luke 2:4

-Escape to Egypt: Hosea 11:1

-Palm Sunday: Zechariah 9:9/Matthew 21:1-10

-Betrayed for 30 pieces of silver: Zechariah 11:12

-His Death: Isaiah: 53, Psalm 22:16, Psalm 22:1, Psalm 22:18

-His Resurrection: Job 19, Psalm 16, Isaiah 53

*Galatians 4:4-5 “But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons.”

B. The Proclamations of the King

-By the Disciples and Apostles: Matthew 16, Acts 2:33-35, Philippians 2:9-11

-By Jesus

On Palm Sunday

Matthew 28:18

Luke 22:28-30

John 18:36-37

-By the Church

Royal Ambassadors

II Corinthians 5:14-15, 17-21

C. The Prospect of the King

Acts 1:11, I Thessalonians 4:13-18, Revelation 19:15-16, Philippians 2:9-11

I. The kingdom of the King Ps. 24:1, Gen. 1:1, Col. 1:16-17

A. The Present Kingdom. Matthew 10:7, Psalm 103:19

B. The Prospective Kingdom. Matthew 6:9-10, 2 Peter 1:11

Three Fallacies with Facts

I. "America was not founded on Judaeo-Christian principles"

A. Founding Documents

Mayflower Compact

Declaration of Independence

1st Amendment to Constitution

B. Founding Fathers

John Adams

John Quincy Adams

Samuel Adams

C. Foundational Monuments

Washington Monument

Lincoln Memorial

U.S. Capitol

The White House

Library of Congress

Supreme Court

Union Station

II. Christians Should not be involve in politics

A. You are!

B. God's People Were

C. What about "Separation of Church and State?"

III. My vote doesn't matter

A. It Does

B. It Will

Fallacies and facts!

America was founded on Judaeo-Christian values and principles!

Christians are, and should be involved in politics!

Your vote does matter!

Three institutions created by God: Family (Genesis 1-2) Government (Genesis 9) Church (Acts 2)

I. Daniel's distinction vs 3

A. Daniel was Faultless vs 4a

B. Daniel was Faithful vs. 4

II. Daniel's Dilemma

A. The Enemy was Determined vs. 5

B. The Enemy was Deceiving vs. 7

III. Daniel's Decision vs. 10-11

A. The Posture of Daniel's Prayer vs. 10

B. The Persistence of Daniel's Prayers vs. 10

C. The Perspective of Daniel's Prayer vs. 10

IV. Daniel's Deliverance vs. 23

I. Jesus is the Promised Shepherd vs. 1-3

II. Jesus is a Personal Shepherd

A. The Shepherd Calls vs. 3

B. The Shepherd Leads vs. 3

C. The Sheep Follow vs. 4

III. Jesus is a Provisional Shepherd

A. The Shepherd Provides Salvation vs. 9

B. The Shepherd Provides Sustenance vs. 9

I. Be Strong

A. We have a fortress vs. 1

B. We have no fear vs. 2

"Understanding who God is, Matters!" II Timothy 1:7

II. Be Secure

A. The peace of God vs. 2-4

B. The provision of God vs.4, Matthew 6:33

C. The presence of God vs. 5

D. The power of God vs. 6

vs. 7 God is with us...

III. Be Still vs 10

I. The Seeking Sinner

A. Zacchaeus was a crook. vs2

B. Zacchaeus was curious. vs 3

II. The Seeking Savior

A. The omniscience of the Savior. vs. 5a (Ps 139:1-10)

B. Obedience to the Savior. vs 5b

C. The opposition to the Savior. vs 7

III. The Salvation of the sinner.

A. Proof of Salvation. Vs 6-9

B. The person of Salvation. vs 10

"The Gospel of Genesis" or "The First Gospel"

I. The Great Deception

A. Deception leads to Doubt. vs. 1

B. Doubt leads to Delusion. vs. 2-3

C. Doubt and Delusion leads to Disobedience. vs. 6

II. The Great Dilemma

A. Innocence Expired vs. 7

B. Intimacy Ended vs. 8-10

C. Enmity was Established vs. 14-18

III. The Great Deliverance

A. Saved by Grace. vs. 21

B. Separated from the Garden. vs. 22-24

I. The Persistence of a Friend

A. They were Compassionate toward their friend. vs 3-4

B. They were Convinced by their faith. vs 5

II. The Predisposition of the Religious

A. The rationale of man vs 6

B. The reality of God vs 7

III. The Power of God

A. The power of God to forgive sin vs 10-11

B. The power of God to heal the sick vs 12

I. God's Wisdom Provides Assurance. vs 1

II. God's Wisdom Promises Accountability. vs 2

A. Man's Self-Righteousness (2a)

B. God's Sure-Righteousness (2b)

III. God's Wisdom Pronounces Acceptance. vs 3

A. The Practice of Righteousness

B. The Practice of Religion

God's Wisdom Provides Assurance

God is Sovereign..."no man can act independent of God"

Proverbs 21:1, Romans 13:1

I. The Message of the Gospel vs 13, Joel 2:32

A. Who is the message for? vs 13

*whosoever

B. What is the Message? vs 13

*"to be saved; call upon the name of the Lord."

II. The Messenger of the Gospel vs. 14

A. There are people who have never heard.

B. There are preachers so that they can hear vs. 14

III. The Method of the Gospel vs. 15

I. Wake Up Because We Know the Time

A. We are Living in the Last Days vs.11

B. We are Looking for the Lord's Return vs. 11

II. Clean Up

A. Believers are to Cast off Darkness vs.12

B. Believers are to Walk in the Light vs. 13

III. Dress Up

A. Put on the Armor of Light vs. 12b

B. Put on the Lord Jesus Christ vs. 14

• I John 2:28-3:3 “28 And now, little children, abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming. 29 If ye know that he is righteous, ye know that every one that doeth righteousness is born of him.” 3:1 Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not. 2 Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. 3 And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.

I. Wake Up Because We Know the Time

A. We are Living in the Last Days vs.11

B. We are Looking for the Lord's Return vs. 11

II. Clean Up

A. Believers are to Cast off Darkness vs.12

B. Believers are to Walk in the Light vs. 13

III. Dress Up

A. Put on the Armor of Light vs. 12b

B. Put on the Lord Jesus Christ vs. 14

I. The Wicked

A. King Ahab I Kings 16:30-33

B. Queen Jezebel vs 18:4

C. Prophets of Baal vs 18:9

II. The Wavering vs 18:21

A. Obadiah: A fearful servant vs 18:3

B. A faltering nation 18:21

III. The Winners

A. A Faithful leader

1. Elijah was faithful in obedience I Kings 17:1-5
2. Elijah was faithful to Preach Truth vs 18:17-18
3. Faithful to unify vs 18:30-31
4. Faithful to give God the glory vs 18:36-37

B. The Faithful Lord vs 18:38-30

(last week)

I. We have a powerful adversary I Peter 5:8

A. Satan and his wiles

B. Spiritual Wickedness

(Today)

II. We have the provision of Armor

A. Belt of Truth vs 14a

B. Breastplate of Righteousness 14b

C. Feet shod with the preparation of the gospel

of peace vs 15

D. Shield of Faith vs 16

E. Helmet of Salvation vs 17a

F. Sword of the Spirit - Word of God vs 17b

G. Prayer vs 18

"Prayer should not be an afterthought, it is our primary source of strength."

I. We have a powerful adversary I Peter 5:8

A. Satan and his wiles

B. Spiritual wickedness

II. We have a provision of armor 6:11 (Next episode)

I. The Rebellion of the son.

A. The son's decision

B. The son's dilemma

II. the Repentance of the son

A. The son's realization

B. the son's response

III. The Restoration of the son

A. The father's concern

B. The father's compassion

C. The father's celebration

I. God's Word is provided by Inspiration vs 16

A. God's Word is Absolute Truth

B. God's Word is Absolutely Complete

II. God's Word is Provided for our Instruction

A. For Doctrine

B. For Reproof

C. For Correction

D. For Instruction in Righteousness

II Timothy 3:17 That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.

I. The Prayer of a Child

Ask, Seek, Knock (ASK)

A. Why should we pray?

1. Prayer is mandated by Jesus
2. Prayer was modeled by Jesus

B. What should we pray for?

1. A prayer for salvation
2. A prayer for sanctification

II. The Promise of the Father

A. The depravity of our human father

B. The dependability of our heavenly Father

I. We need a proper Perspective of Possessions

II. There are Prohibitions to Practice.

A. You are Valued vs 26

B. Worry is vanity for God's Children vs. 27

III. Our Priorities must be Purposeful vs. 33

A. Seek God's Kingdom

B. Seek God's Righteousness

IV. We have a Promise of our Provision

A. The Provision of our needs

B. The Provision of our Next (Psalm 37:23-24)

I. Biblical Responsibility of Children

A. Honor Your Parents Eph. 6:2-3

B. Obey Your Parents

C. Respect Your Parents

II. Biblical Responsibility of Parents

A. Love our Children

B. Lead our Children Prov. 22:6, Joshua 24:15

III. Biblical Responsibility of the Church

An Anchor in the Storm

1. God knows what we are dealing with.
2. God has the power to help us.
3. God loves you and will help you because He loves you.

"In Times Like These We Need a Savior"

1. What caused the depression Jesus felt?

A. It was the holiday season all for the Jewish people it was the Passover.  

B. Jesus’ depression came at time of great suffering.  He was hurting.

C. You feel depression in a time of physical exhaustion.

D. Jesus experienced His depression at a time of betrayal by friends.

E.  Jesus experienced His depression at a time of standing up for someone who had let Him down.

F. Jesus experienced His depression because it was the time of tasting sin.  

2. Jesus Remedy for Depression

A. First two steps that Jesus took that did not work!   Psalms 69:20 

1) We look for someone to feel sorry for us!  

2) He wanted someone to cheer Him up or to take care of Him.  

B. What did work for Jesus? Psalms  69:30 

1) He began to praise His God with a song.

2) Take time to praise God magnify Him with thanksgiving.

Biblical stewardship is the human responsibility to manage resources that God has placed in one’s care.

I. Giving to God is Biblical

5 truths about Paul's Instruction for giving:

a. There was a collection vs 1

b. The collection was taken at the church vs 2

c. Everyone was expected to give vs 2

d. Individuals give based on their prosperity vs 2

e. Giving was for the ministry of the Church vs 3

II. It All Belongs to God. Psalm 24:1; I Timothy 6:17

III. Giving to God is an Act of Worship. Mark 12:23-44

IV. Giving to God is an Act of faith. Matthew 6:33; Malachi 3:10

V. Giving to God is a Matter of the Heart. II Cor. 9:7; Matthew 6:21

Three types of gifts:

1. Natural Gifts: Born with...sports, musically inclined, engineering, artistic...
2. Acquired Gifts: Learned behavior...
3. Spiritual Gifts:

Three Biblical Truths concerning Spiritual Gifts...

I. Spiritual Gifts are Plentiful vs 4-6

II. Spiritual Gifts are Provided vs 4-6

III. Spiritual Gifts are Purposeful vs 5-7

A. To Serve

B. To Work

C. Together

I Corinthians 3:9 For we are laborers together with God."

I. Our Time is Temporal

“Time” is a a measured, or measurable, period during which an action or condition exists or continues."

A. Time is Defined by God. Gen. 1:3-5

B. Time is Determined by God. Ecclesiastes 3:1-14

C. Time is Dependent on God. Hebrews 9:27

II. Our Time Should be Invested

A. Invest in Faith. Mark 8:36

B. Invest in Family.

I Corinthians 4:2 “Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.”

Three Significant evidences for Jesus' Resurrection:

A. The Church

B. The Scriptures

C. Eyewitnesses

I. Our Preaching is Powerless vs. 14a

II. Our Faith is Pointless vs. 14b

III. Our Testimony is Phony vs. 15

IV. We are Under SIn's Penalty vs. 17

V. Our Loved Ones are Perished vs. 18

VI. We Should be Pitied vs. 19

I Corinthians 15:20 “But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept."

I. A Parade...

A. Those who cried hosanna! vs 8

B. Those who asked "Who is this?" vs 10

II. A Prayer... Luke 22:39-44

A. A prayer of acceptance vs 41-42

B. A prayer of agony vs 44

III. A Promise Acts 1:8

I. The Determination of Christ vs 51

A. Jesus is rejected by the Samaritans. vs 52-53

B. The disciples are rebuked by Jesus. vs 54-55

II. The Cost of Discipleship

A. Man's request to follow. vs 57

B. The Master's response to followers. vs 62

*II Corinthians 5:17 “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.”

Three types of rest:

A. Sabbath Rest

B. Israel's Rest

C. Believer's Rest

I The Promise of Rest

A. Access of the Gospel (Good news) 4:2

B. Appropriation of Faith 4:2

II. The Provision of Rest

A. Prospective Rest 4:9

B. Present Rest 4:10

III. The Pursuit of Rest 4:11

1. The Cross is in the way, for salvation. I Corinthians 1:18
2. The Cross is in the way, so I don't leave it behind. Luke 9:23
3. The Cross is in the way, so daily I can live and breathe. Luke 9:23
4. The Cross is in the way, because it is the only way. John 14:6
5. The Cross is in the way, so I give up my rights. Luke 15:21
6. The Cross is in the way, to help me stay humble. Philippians 2:8

I. The Condition of the Sinner

A. The Generation was Calloused vs 16-17

B. The Generation was Cynical/Critical vs 18-19

II. The Confirmation of the Saint vs 19c

III. The Condemnation of the Cities vs 20

A. The Cities had Received Revelation vs 20a

B. The Cities had Refused to Repent vs 20 b

I. There are Great Consequences

A. Comfort for Believer

B. Condemnation for Unbeliever

II. There is a Great Concern vs. 28

III. Conclusion

A. Pray for Compassion

B. Pray for Conversations

C. Pray for Conversions

I. We Are to be:

A. Strong

B. Steadfast

C. Students

D. Thinkers

II. Think...

A. Of things that are True

B. Of things that are Honest

C. On things which are Just

D. On things that are Pure

E. On things that are Lovely

F. On things that are of Good Report

I. The Example of the Savior

A. The Necessity to Go vs. 4

B. The Necessity to Give vs.10

II. The Example of the Samaritan

A. The Necessity to Go vs. 28a

B. The Necessity to Give vs. 29

John 4:39 And many of the Samaritans of that city believed on him for the saying of the woman, which testified, He told me all that ever I did. 

I. The Ministry of Jesus vs 35-36

A. The Ability of Jesus vs. 35

B. The Attitude of Jesus vs. 36

II. The Mandate of Jesus vs. 37-38

A. The Abundance of the Lost

B. The Absence of Laborers

C. The Appeal of the Lord

"Bringing in the Sheaves"..."Help Wanted"

I. The Definition of the Altar

A. The Altar Biblically

1. Altars of Sacrifice
2. Altars of Remembrance

B. The Altar Historically

II. The Desolation of the Altar

A. Man's Attempt

B. Man's Abuse

C. Mans' Arrogance

III. The Defense of the Altar

A. The Need for a Proper Prospective

B. The Need for Public Profession

1. Jesus caused excitement to happen.
2. 2. The people got excited about Jesus.
3. We should be excited about being saved.
4. We should be excited about seeing others saved.
5. 5. We ought to be excited about our church and its future.

I. Our Dependence on God in Defeat

II. Our Dependence on God for Direction

A. Show Me

B. Teach Me 

C. Lead Me

III. Our Dependence on God for Deliverance 

A. Deliverance Based on God’s Character

B. Deliverance Based on Man’s Confession

I. How Not to Pray

A. Don't Pray Publicly vs 5b

B. Don't Pray Proudly vs 5b

II. How To Pray

A. Pray Secretly vs 6b

B. Pray Sincerely vs 7a

C. Pray Simply vs 7b

*Verse 34

I would Change:

1. Concerning my Living. Galatians 2:20
2. Concerning my Looking. II John 1:8
3. Concerning my Listening. Mark 4:23-24
4. Concerning my Lips. Proverbs 18:7-8
5. Concerning my Learning. I John 2:27
6. Concerning my Liberty. John 8:32

"Don't Worry Be Prayerful"

I. The Exhortation to Pray

A. Believers are to Worry about Nothing

B. Believers are to Pray about Everything

Three words for prayer:

1. Prayer: General attitude pf Worship
2. Supplication (Petition): Needs
3. Requests: Specific concerns

II. The Effects of Prayer

A. Prayer brings Peace

B. Peace Enables Perseverance

Invest: To commit (money) in order to earn (financial) gain.

I. Invest in Prayer Hebrews 4:16

A. Pray for Yourself

B. Pray for Saints

C. Pray for Salvations

II. Invest in Bible Study. II Timothy 2:15

III. Invest in the Great Commission. Acts 1:8

A. Invest in the Great Commission by Going. Matthew 28:19-20

B. Invest in the Great Commission by Giving

**If we invest, imagine the gain! Personal, Corporate, Kingdom gain!

I. Meaning of Joy

A. Joy defined

B. Joy delivered

II. The Manifestation of Joy

A. Joy in our Salvation

B. Joy in our Suffering

C. Joy in the Second Coming of Christ

III. The Message ofJoy

"Christ has come as our Savior!"

I. Their Travel

A. Who Were the Wise Men?

B. What Were they following?

II. Their Trouble

A. Herod's Distress

B. Herod's Demand

C. Herod's Desire

III. Their Treasures

A. Gold

B. Frankincense

C. Myrrh

I. The announcement of the angel

A. The Person to be born vs. 11

1. Savior
2. Christ
3. The Lord

B. The place of His birth

C. The praise of His angels

II. The action of the shepherds

A. The shepherds proclamation

B. The shepherds praise

I. The Place of Bethlehem 

II. The Probability of Bethlehem

III. The Prophecy of Bethlehem

A. Where He Would be Born

B. Who He Would Be

1. Ruler: 5:2
2. Eternal: 5:2
3. Shepherd: 5:4
4. Security: 5:4
5. Peace: 5:5

Letters written by the Spirit

A. Epistle of Commendation

B. Evidence of Conversion

Preached Sunday AM March 20, 2022

1. The Valley of Siddim.  (The Valley of Sin)  Genesis 14:10  

2. The Valley of Eshcol   (The Valley of Decision)  Num 32:9 

3. The Valley of Jehoshaphat (Kidron.) (The Valley of Suffering) Joel 3:2, 12

4. The Valley of Elah.  (The Valley of Battle) 1 Sam 17:2 

5. The Valley of Achor.  (The Valley of Chastening) Joshua 7:24 

6. The Valley of Gehenna.  (The Valley of Death)  Matthew 5:22

7. The Valley of Jezreel.  (The Last Great Battle) Revelation 13

I. The Atmosphere of Praise. vs. 1, 2, 4

A. An atmosphere of victory

B. An atmosphere of joy

C. An atmosphere of singing

D. An atmosphere of praise

Preached Sunday AM 11-21-21

I. Two Ministries

A. Message of Baptism

B. Method of Baptism

II. Two Misunderstandings

A. Misunderstanding concerning purification

B. Misunderstanding concerning pride

III. Two Mandates

A. The Savior must increase

B. The Servant must decrease

We see Anticipation (Zechariah 2:1-3). 

We see an Admonition (Zechariah 2:6-9).

The whole purpose of Christ's life on earth. His ministry, and His death and resurrection was to bring glory to God

Question: What is the reason for the measure line?

Answer: When you find God using a measuring line, it simply means that He is getting ready to move again that which He is measuring.

Three Observations 

1. When God starts to measure He is getting ready to move you.

2. We don’t like being measured as a Christian.

3.  We don’t like being measured by God because we may have to get involved.

 Application: Be willing to be measured in a direction you never have gone before, and talking to those you care for the most about the Gospel.

I. The Message of Eternal Life vs 13

A. Jesus Came Down. vs 13

B. Jesus Must Be Lifted Up. vs14

II. The Motivation of Love vs 16

A. The Love of God vs16

B. The Condemnation of the World vs 17

John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

John 3:17 For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.

1. Jeremiah's Appointment vs 1-5
2. Jeremiah's Assurance vs 6-8
3. Jeremiahs Authority vs. 9-10

Preached Sunday Morning April 25, 2021

I. A Meeting with the Savior

A. His people

B. His position

C. He was a person

II. The Message of the Savior

A. "Water and Spirit": Physical birth and spiritual birth

B. Water and Spirit:The Word of God (water) and the Spirit of God (spirit)

III. The manifestation of the Spirit

I. The Conflict in the Church 1:11

A. The call to consistency

B. Questions to consider

II. The Clarity of Paul Acts 9:15

A. Call to preach the Gospel

B. Call to present the Gospel clearly

III The confrontation of the Cross

Preached Sunday Morning January 30, 2022

We can know we have Eternal Life by evaluating our...

I. Relationship with Sin

A. Awareness of Sin I John 1:8

B. Avoid Sin...I John 2:1, I John 2:15-17

C. Acknowledge Sin... I John 1:9-10

II. Relationship with the Savior

A. Acknowledge the Savior...I John 4:14-15, I John 5;1

B. Abide in the Savior...I John 2:28, John 15:4-6

C. Abound in Sanctification...I John 2:5-6, I John 3:2-3, I John 3:9-10

III. Relationship with the Saints...

Love one another...I John 2:10, I John 4:20-21, I John 3:11-14

1. Love in Practice...I John 3:16-17, I John 3:18-19
2. Love in Prayer...I John 5:16, Colossians 1:9

IV. Relationship with the Spirit...I John 4:10, I John 4:13

A. Taught by the Spirit...I John 2:20, I John 2:27, I John 5:20

B. Test the Spirits...I John 4:6, I John 4:2-3

I John 5:13

“These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.”

1. Against Sin!...Romans 6:23 

2. About hell!...Revelation 20:14-15

3. On sacrifice...Romans 12:1 

I. Believers are to Examine the spirit.

A. The Spirit of God

B. The spirit of the anti-christ

II. Believers are empowered by the Holy Spirit

A. Evidence of the spirit of error

B. Evidence of the spirit of truth

I John 5:13 “These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.”

I. Paul's Rights

II. Church's Responsibility

III. Paul's Sacrifice

I. The Message of Love vs.11

A. An Exhortation to Believers

B. An Example for Believers

C. An Expectation for Believers

D The Evidence of a Believer

II. The Manifestation of Love

A. The Manifestation of Love in Christ

B. The Manifestation of Love in Christians

I John 5:13 “These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.”

I. The Call to Enter vs 13

II. The contrast of the Two Ways

A. The Way of the world

1. The gate is wider
2. The way is easy
3. The travelers are many

B. The Way of the Believer

1. The gate is narrow
2. The way is difficult

Preached January 23, 2022

I. The Pronouncement of Sin Vs 4

*Two Biblical truths concerning the law:

1. God's laws are holy! Romans 7:12
2. God's laws are helpful! Galatians 3:24

II. The Provision for Sin

A. The provision for the price for sin vs. 5

B. Provision for the practice of sin vs 6

III. The Proof of a Saint vs 10

I John 5:13 “These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.”

Two Biblical foundational truths we must know

A. We live in a dark world.

B. Jesus is the Light of the world.

I Characteristics of the Light (God's Word)

A. It is true

B. It is relevant

C. it is enduring

II Consequences of the Light

A. Light exposes

B. Light enlightens

Preached Sunday AM January 9, 2022

I. As children of God, we recognize His love. vs. 1

A. Christians are in the family of God.

B. Christians are foreign to the world.

II. As Children of God, we have a revelation of His likeness.

Three truths revealed.

A. Jesus shall appear.

B. We shall be like Him.

C. We shall see Him as He is.

III. As children of God, we respond to His love. Vs. 3

I John 5:13 “These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.”

I. Israel's Problem

a. Israel was discouraged

b. Israel's was disobedient

c. Israel was discontent

II. God's Provision

a. Israel's acknowledgement

b. God's answer

Preached Sunday Morning May 1, 2022

Authentic Christians Abiding in Christ...

1. Abide in His Word vs 24
2. Acknowledge His Promise vs 25
3. Are Anointed by the Spirit vs 27
4. Are not Ashamed at His Return vs 28

I John 5:13 “These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.”

1. Love balances knowledge. 1-6
2. Love limits freedom. 7-13

I. Characteristics of Antichrists

A. Antichrists Depart the Church

B. Antichrists Deny Christ

C. Antichrists Deceive the Church

II. Characteristics of Authentic Christians

A. Anointed by the Spirit vs20a

B. Aware of the Scriptures vs20b

I John 5:13 “These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.”

Some things that are eternal:

1. God is eternal. Deuteronomy 33:27 

2. God’s power is eternal. Romans 1:20

3. Salvation is eternal. Hebrews 5:9 

4. Redemption is eternal. Hebrews 9:12 

5. The Holy Spirit is eternal. Hebrews 9:14 

6. Our inheritance is eternal. Hebrews 9:15

7. Our new life is eternal. 1 John 3:15 

8. God’s glory is eternal. 2 Timothy 2:10 

9. Heaven is eternal. 2 Corinthians 5:1 

10. God’s purposes are eternal. Ephesians 3:11 

Some things that are eternal to be excited about.

1. Love is eternal. 

2. The Bible is eternal. John 1:1 

3. The Power of God is eternal.  Rom 1:20 

4. Salvation is eternal.  Hebrews 5:9 

5. God’s purpose is eternal. Ephesians 3:11 

6. My home in heaven is eternal. 2 Corinthians 5:1 

I. The Definition of the World

A. The Command to Christians vs. 15a

B. The Conclusion of the Church vs. 15b

II. The Defilement of the World vs. 16

A. The Lust of the Flesh

B. The Lust of the Eyes

C. The Pride of Life

III. The Destruction of the World vs. 17

A. The World is Temporal

B. God's Will is Eternal

*The reality of Last Days

*Revelations of the Last Days

*The Believers Response in the Last Days

a. from such turn away

b. eventual separation

Preached on July 31, 2022 AM

I John 2:12-14

*Encouragement Concerning Sin

A. The believers sin has been forgiven. vs 12

B. The believers Savior is to be glorified. vs 12

*Exhortation Concerning Sanctification

A. Little Children vs 13c

B. Young Men vs 13b

C. Fathers vs 13a 14a

Psalm 23

*The Reality of the Last Days

a. The declaration of the last days

b. The description of the last days

*Revelations of the Last Days

a. Lives of selfishness

b. Lips of godliness

Preached on July 10, 2022 AM

True Believers have an Advocate with the Father

a. The Believer’s Attitude Toward Sin

b. The Believer’s Answer for Sin

True Believers have Assurance of their Faith

a. A True Believer is Obedient to Jesus’ Word

b. A True Believer Walks as Jesus Walked

vs. 1-24 Marriage

vs. 25-40 Singleness

1.Be faithful in your calling to marriage.

A. Marriage requires self-giving

B. Marriage requires commitment

C. Marriage requires grace

2.Be faithful in your calling to singleness

A. Singleness requires patience

B. Singleness requires urgency

C. Singleness requires purity

1.Recognize a Fundamental Fact of the Father

2.Recognize True Fellowship is with the Father

A. The Falsifier

B. The Follower

3.Recognize the Faithfulness of the Father to Forgive

I John 5:13 “These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.”

Are you like:

Ezekiel losing his baby and his wife yet he did what he was suppose to do.

Joseph, his father’s favorite son.

Moses a man chosen and spared of God.  

Men like Gideon, and Jephthah who judged and lead the people.

Men like David who served God yet made mistakes and people hurt them they went on for God.

Men like Daniel who faced some trials yet he purposed in his heart not to defile himself.

Jesus Christ Himself came into His own and His own refused Him.

Men like the disciples.

Paul who suffered much for the cause of Jesus Christ.

They made up their minds they would follow Christ.

1. I’ve Made Up My Mind about God and His Word.

2.  I’ve Made Up My Mind about Whom I am going to serve.

3. I’ve Made Up My Mind when troubles come I’m sticking with Christ!

1. Faith in the Word of God
2. Faith in the Work of God
3. Faith in the Will of God

1. Moses sees all of God that he can see. vs 11
2. God and Moses spoke to each other. vs 12
3. Moses finally realizes that he must find grace himself with His God. vs 12-13
4. Moses was given the "rest" he was looking for. vs 14
5. Refuse to go anywhere without Him. vs15
6. The Lord answers and what a promise. vs17

Preached Sunday AM 7-24-22

1. Remember Unity's foundation
2. Fight for Unity's focus
3. Apply Unity's formula
4. Keep your eyes on Unity's figure

We see in verse 51 the word “forget,” and in 52 the word “fruitful.”

51 And Joseph called the name of the firstborn Manasseh: For God, said he, hath made me forget all my toil, and all my father's house.

1. Our forgetting.

2.  Our fruitfulness

52 And the name of the second called he Ephraim: For God hath caused me to be fruitful in the land of my affliction.

3.  Our faithful Lord

Pointless Faith vs 14

Powerless Faith vs 17

Purposeful Faith vs 18

1. Realize this is all apart of the plan.

A. God says during all this Get a Grip/

Settle yourself, In your \patience possess ye your souls.  

B. I am still in control. 

2. There are personal issues we need to Get a Grip on.  

Things that happen to us on purpose or just being part of life

A. Financial.  

B. Health.

C. Enemies. 

3. God says I will give you wisdom.

Don’t change it have it settled. Get a Grip

I. Paul's Present Faith vs 6

II. Paul's Past Faithfulness vs 7

A. Paul fought a good fight

B. Paul finished His Course

C. Paul kept the Faith

III. Paul's Prospective Faith vs 8

I. You are free...so Sacrifice for self-control

II. You are United with Christ...so Fight for faithfulness

III. You are God's temple...so Pursue purity

IV. You are not your own...so Glorify God in everything

I. The Entry way of the Faithful. vs. 19-20

A. Jesus is HOW we enter the presence of God

B. Jesus is the WAY we enter the presence of God.

II. Exhortations to the Faithful

A. Draw near to God vs 22

B. Hold fast our confession vs 23

C. Consider one another-watch out for each other vs 24

D. Corporate worship - church vs 25

1. God desires to be honored.
2. God speaks to men.
3. God does what is right at the right time.

Preached Wed. 6-14-23

The Promise of God

A. Thou shall save Israel vs 6:14

B. thou shall smite the Midianites vs 6:16

C. Thou shall not die vs 6:23

II. The Purging of God's Army

A. God Eliminated the Fearful vs 7:3

B. God Eliminated the Foolish vs 7:4-7

III. The Power of God's Army

*God Empowered the Faithful vs 7:7

*A Blessed Nation praises the Lord.

*A Blessed Nation recognizes the power of the Lord

Preached July 3, 2022

I. The Reality of the Day of the Lord

A. Believers know the Day of the Lord WILL come.

B. Believers know HOW the Day of the Lord will come.

II. The Rejection of the Day of the Lord

A. Sudden Destruction

B. Certain Destruction

III. The Response to the Day of the Lord

A. The Decision of the Unbeliever

B. The Duty of the Believer

1. The Lord was with Joseph in the hour of loneliness.
2. The Lord was with Joseph in the hour of uncertainty.
3. The Lord was with Joseph in the hour of temptation.
4. The Lord was with Joseph in the hour of great disappointment.

Preached May 31, 2023

*The Exploitation of Sin vs 18

*The Example of Sodom... Jude 1:7, Ex. 16:49-50, Ex. 16:56

*The Effects of Sin..."There are consequences for sin." James 1:14-15

*The Expectation of the Saints...

*We don't condemn the sinner.

*We don't condone the sin.

*We don't compromise on Scripture

*A Man who executes judgment

*A Man who seeks truth

Preached June 20, 2021 Father's Day

"Forgiveness is the fragrance that the violet sheds on the heel that has crushed it.”Mark Twain

• The Example of forgiveness
• The Expectation of forgiveness

1. We are to follow on to know the Lord.

2. We are to follow on to know Him better. 

3. We are to follow on to know Him fully.

In Genesis we know Him as the Promised Seed

In Exodus we know Him as the Passover Lamb

In Leviticus we know Him as The Scape Goat

In Numbers we know Him as the Brazen Serpent

In Deuteronomy we know Him as the Law Giver

In Joshua we know Him as the Unseen Captain

In Judges we know Him as the Angered God

In Ruth we know Him as the Kinsmen Redeemer

In Samuel we know Him as the Great Prophet, and Priest and King

In Chronicles we know Him as the Great Historian

In Ezra we know Him as the Rebuilder of the Temple of God

In Nehemiah we know Him as the Rebuilder of the Wall

In Esther we know Him as the Saviour of the Jews

In Job we know Him as the Friend that Sticketh Closer than a Brother

In Psalms we know Him as the Song of All the Ages

In Proverbs we know Him as the Truth

In Ecclesiastes we know Him as the Great Preacher

In Song of Solomon we know Him as the Wonderful Lover

In Isaiah we know Him as the Wonderful Counselor

In Jeremiah we know Him as the Weeping Prophet

In Lamentations we know Him as the Street Preacher

In Ezekiel we know Him as the Rebuilder of the Millennium Temple

In Daniel we know Him as the Stone Cut Out Without Hands

In Hosea we know Him as the Forgiving Lover

In Joel we know Him as the House of the Lord

In Amos we know Him as the Fearless Man with a Message

In Obadiah we know Him as the Servant of Jehovah

In Jonah we know Him as the Good and Gracious Lord

In Micah we know Him as the No One Like Our Saviour

In Nahum we know Him as the Burdened for those He Loves

In Habakkuk we know Him as the Embracer

In Zephaniah we know Him as the Lord thy God

In Haggai we know Him as the Word of the Lord

In Zechariah we know Him as  Whom Jehovah Remembers 

In Malachi we know Him as the Spiritual Angel

In Matthew we know Him as the King of Kings

In Mark we know Him as the Suffering Servant

In Luke we know Him as the Son of Man

In John we know Him as the Son of God

In Acts we know Him as the Power of the Church

In Romans we know Him as the Dynamite of the Gospel

In Corinthians we know Him as the Restorer of the Carnal Nature

In Galatians we know Him as the Ripped Veil

In Ephesians we know Him as the Our Heavenly Father

In Philippians we know Him as the Our Sufficiency

In Colossians we know Him as the Saviour

In Thessalonians we know Him as the Coming Saviour

In Timothy we know Him as the Great Appearing God

In Titus we know Him as Our Blessed Hope

In Philemon we know Him as the Forgiver of Wayward Slave

In Hebrews we know Him as the He is the Best of All

In James we know Him as the Fulfiller of them All

In Peter we know Him as the Rock of Our Salvation

In John we know Him as Our Insurance

In Jude we know Him as the Who Able to Keep Us from Falling

In Revelation we know Him as the One Who's Going to Come

James 1:1-8

1.The Existence of Trials

A. The Anticipation of Trials

B. The Attitude of Trials

2.The Effects of Trials

A. Patience

B. Perfection

C. Perspective

3.The Essentials of Trials

A. Wisdom is Essential

B. Faith is Essential

*God is Love

*Notice the verse does not say:

God has love...It says God IS love.

*God is a reservoir of love

God loves in spite of...

Man loves because of...

*Our life is separated into many rooms. Some are open and some are closed.

Preached August 1, 2021

"The Test of Faith"

1. The Promise of Abraham's future
2. The Proof of Abraham's faith
3. The Provision of Abraham's faith

*God provided where Abraham was at.

*Where God guides, He provides.

*Friends request vs 5

• the Relationship
• The Request
• The Reason

*The friends response vs 7

*The friends reason vs 8

*The Father-Son relationship vs. 11-13

Preached Sunday AM 2-13-22

Genesis 8:9

*The dove was happy in the ark.

*The dove chose to leave the ark.

*The dove chose to return to the ark.

*It had the fifth of the world on it.

*Noah was waiting and looking for the dove to return.

The most wonderful place in all the world to live is with God!

Why does Go allow sorrowful things to happen to us?

What is He doing in lives by allowing such things?

Something tragic also took place about this time.

Genesis 35, Joseph lost Deborah (grandmother's nurse), Rachel his grandmother, Isaac his grandson, and Rebekah his mother in death.

1. The strength that came out of sorrow caused Joseph to place the proper emphasis on life.
2. The strength that come out of sorrow caused Joseph to place the proper emphasis on his loved ones.
3. The strength that came out of sorrow caused Joseph to place the proper emphasis on the Lord.

Seek God

*Seek God's will

*God's will is salvation

*God's will is sanctification

*Seek God's Word. Ps 119:11

Graduation Sunday 2023

The severity of the charge

*Reality of Jesus' judgement

*Sureness of Christ return

*Reminds us of the kingdom of Christ

The what of the charge - Preach the Word

*Patience

*Truth

The Way of the charge

*Time they won't like the Word

*Tickle their ears

The extent of the charge

Preached Sunday Evening 2-27-22

*Instructions from God's Word

*Instructions for husbands and wives

*Instructions for parents

*Instructions for children

*The influence of Godly women

*The implosion of God's will

*Finish Well vs. 7

*Pass on the Gospel vs. 13

*Know and grow in the Gospel "Live it out"

*Showing Him to others

*Trusting Him to do the work

*Look forward to your reward vs. 8

Preached March 20, 2022

God's Purpose

*God's purpose for the called

*God's purpose is conformation

God's Provision

*The believer's sanctification

*The believer's security

Paul's Persuasion

Preached May 22, 2022

1. I have learned that God cannot do anything without it being mixed with love.
2. The longer I live the less I comprehend what love is.
3. What I do know is what love does and what love does not do.

• vs 9 love is not hurtful by acting, speech, emotion
• vs 10 love is expressive and affectionate
• vs 11 love is respectful
• vs 12 love believes in others
• vs 12 love is patient
• vs 12 love prays
• vs 13 love is generous
• vs 14 love blesses others
• vs 15 love is sympathetic
• vs 16 love unifies

preached July 10, 2022

Perspective of the Faithful

*By faith they practiced obedience vs. 8

*By faith they persevered until death vs. 13

"It's always too soon to quit"

*By faith they were pilgrims in a strange land vs. 9 &13

*By faith their past was forgotten vs. 14-15

*By faith, God's preparations were expected

You have a new identity

*you are a saint (holy; set a part)

You have a new purpose

*you live for the eternal kingdom

So show overflowing forgiveness

Show radical repentance

Faith Explained

*Faith provides confidence vs1

*Faith proves creation Vs 3

*Faith pleases the Creator vs 6

*Believing He is

*Believing He does

Faith Exemplified

*the example of Abel - worship

*the example of Enoch - walk

*the example of Noah - work

In the Bible no other name is mentioned more than "David" other than "God".

David 1,085 times in the Bible

God - 3878

Jesus Christ - 942

Moses - 848

Abraham - 231

Apostle Paul is mentioned 163 times.

Satan - 55 Devil - 61 Lucifer - 1 

What did God see in David?

*David was mighty man of God.

*David chose faith over force.

"One Sin Should Not Speak for Ones Whole Life"

We see in I Kings 15:5 three statements about David.

*David did that which was right in the eyes of the Lord.

*The statement is: David lived according to the commandments of the Lord.

*David's sin did follow him, but God did not hold it against him.

John 21:15-19

I. Jesus’ Question

A. A question of Lordship

B. A question of Love

II. Peter’s Confession vs 17

III. Peter’s Commission - “Restored for More”

A. To feed the sheep - baby sheep

Tending the sheep - discipling the sheep

Feeding the sheep - feed the flock

B. To follow the Shepherd vs 18-19

The Way of An Eagle

1. An eagle has to be born an eagle.
2. The Mother eagle will discipline her eaglets.
3. Eagles fly different than other birds. They soar.
4. An eagle knows when death is approaching.

Preached on Sunday Night...May 22, 2022

Perspectives of the Resurrection

1. Those who Deceived Matthew 28:11-15

A. The Deceivers

1. Satan

2.Science

3. Sin

B. The Deceived

2.Those who Believed

A. Those who believed AFTER seeing.

B. Those who believed WITHOUT seeing.

Blessed Ones...

* Thomas *Peter

* Paul *Elijah

* John *Moses

The More Blessed Ones

1. Those who have never seen a miracle.
2. Those who are now alone. (widow/widower)
3. Those who spend the week in a miserable environment (rough work place)

Preached Sunday June 12, 2022 in the AM service

Matthew 21:1-10

Two groups of people represented on Palm Sunday:

• Those who cried; “Hosanna”
• Those who asked; “Who is this?”

1. A cheerful person is one who knows there sins are forgiven. Matthew 9:2
2. Cheerful is the person that has the presence of God in the midst of a storm. Matthew 14:26-27
3. Cheerful is the person who knows he has overcome the world. John 16:33

II Corinthians 9:5-7

1. Giving to God is Biblical Matthew 23:23
2. Five truths about Paul's instruction for giving:

a. There was a collection vs. 1

b. The collection was taken at/by the church vs. 2

c. Everyone was expected to give vs. 2

d. Individuals give based on their prosperity vs. 2

e. Giving was for the ministry of the church vs. 3

*He was Better off in Egypt.

*He was Better off in prison.

*He was Sinned against by his brethren.

*He was Sent by God.

When we think of our Savior, we must realize that it was our sins, not His, that sent Him to the cross.

II Corinthians 9:6-7

A Biblical view of Giving... Introduction

I. Problem - unrepentant sin kills

II. Prescription - don't feed into sinful self-deception

III. Purpose- to save and protect people's souls vs 5-7

IV. Priority - to hold believers accountable to the Word of God

(Part 1 can be heard on last weeks podcast episode 43)

II. Time is Precious (valuable)

A. Promise of Time - gift from God

B. Priority of Time -

1. Prioritize your faith
2. Prioritize your family

Things of no Profit!

There is no profit...

1. ...in living faithless. (Romans 3:1-3)
2. ...in selling out to your flesh for one morsel of meat. (Genesis 25:31)
3. ...in trying to destroy people who are not like us. (Esther 3:8)
4. ...in believing just because, I have labored with my hands I am profitable.
5. ...in inherited lies and vanity and false gods.
6. ...in saying it is vain to serve God. (Malachi 3:1)
7. ...in talking with words that make no sense! (2 Timothy 2:14)

Things that are Profitable!

1. Our labor for the Lord. (Proverbs 14:23)
2. The earth and all God's creation! (Ecclesiastes 5:9)
3. Profit in wisdom and be able to see the sun! (Ecclesiastes 7:11)
4. Profit in marriage. (I Corinthians 7:35)
5. Profit in being concerned about others being saved. (I Corinthians 10:33)
6. Profit in being chastened by the Lord. (Hebrews 12:10)

"The foundational truth of Biblical stewardship is the realization that everything belongs to the Lord!"

Time is Purposeful

A. God Created Time... Genesis 1:3-5

B. God Controls Time... Ecclesiastes 3:1-14

Time is Precious

A. The Promise of Time... Ecclesiastes 3:12-13

B. The Priority of Time...

1. Prioritize your Faith: Relationship with God
2. Prioritize your Family: First institution

Paul's present testimony

*Paul's immediate duty vs.6

*Paul's imminent departure vs. 7

Paul's past testimony

*Paul was a fighter

*Paul was a finisher

*Paul was faithful

Paul's Future testimony vs. 8

The Contrast of true Believers vs. 10-11

*Paul's practice

*Paul's persecution

The Certainty of Persecution

*The Promise of persecution (John 15:19-20)

*The Progression of the Persecutors vs. 13

A servant of God is successful because he is...

• Faithful vs. 1-5
• Humble vs. 6-13
• Loving vs. 14-21

• Preaching vs. 41-42
• Baptism vs 41
• Communion vs 42
• Praying vs 42
• Partnership vs 42

*Righteousness verses wickedness

*What the word balance implies is dual balances of scales.

*Spiritual verses spiritual

*A false balance will not only disgust God but will disgust you.

In the Bible we find some important areas to keep in proper contrast:

A. God wants us to have the proper balance of grace and truth. John 1:17

B. God wants us to have a paper balance of justice and mercy. Psalm 89:14

C. God wants us to have the proper balance of honor and majesty. Psalm 96:6

D. God wants us to have the proper balance of strength and beauty. Psalm 96:6

E. God wants us to have the proper balance between love and hate. Psalm 97:10

F. God wants you to have the right balance between zeal and knowledge. Romans 10:1-3

The foundation of the church

*The foundation of the church is Christ.

*The foundation of the church is a confession

The future of the church

*War is certain

*Victory is secured

*The contrast of true believers

*Our certainty of persecution

*Our confidence in the Scripture

1. A confidence to continue
2. A confidence to completion

(preached August 14, 2022)

Part 1: Introduction

Two Sacrifices we have to guard.

• We must guard the sacrifice of Jesus Christ
• We must guard the sacrifice of ourselves

*Jesus is the Son of man

*Jesus is Superior to the prophets

*Jesus is Savior of the world

*Jesus is the Son of God

*Jesus is the Sure Foundation of the Church

Why do people reject Christ? (18-25)

*His wisdom is much higher than worldly wisdom.

*He works in His good and better ways.

Why do Christians accept Christ? (26-29)

*Not because of who they are...

*Not because of what they have done...

*but because God is gracious

We must live each day with one truth front and center: The First Commandment vs3

*Acknowledge the "I Am" as your Creator

*Acknowledge the "I Am" as the Redeemer

*Acknowledge the "I Am" is the only God

Genesis 1:1-5

*God Is - vs. 1

*God Is Creator vs. 1B

Three Elements of Building the Church

*The foundation - Christ vs 10

*The Building - Us vs.12-14

*The Purpose - to Dwell

Text: II Corinthians 5:16-21

Recap:

The Realities of Regeneration

*The Regenerate Perspective

*The Regenerate Position

Today:

The Revelations of Reconciliation

*The Means of Reconciliation

*The Ministry of Reconciliation

*The Message of Reconciliation

Text: II Corinthians 5:16-21

The Realities of Regeneration

*The Regenerate Perspective

*The Regenerate Position

1. Our inability to find true wisdom
2. God's initiative to reveal true wisdom
3. The invitation of receive true wisdom

The Adoration of Angels

Adore Him for He is God

Adore Him for His goodness

The Searching of the shepherds

Search God'sWord

Search God's Will

The Worship of the Wise Men

Worship Jesus by giving

Worship Jesus by going

Conclusion:

Two Gifts

Gift to Receive

Gift to Give

1. The Christmas season is here
2. But will Christmas really come?
3. How will Christmas come?
4. Come to Christmas with a feeling of humility?

1. Old Testament prophecies foretold His Place
2. Old Testament prophecies foretold His Purity
3. Old Testament prophecies foretold His Purpose

a. He would be Soveriegn

b. He would be Sacrifice

c. He would be Savior

1. Truth does not die
2. Truth needs help
3. Without truth there is No Way

The Predicament of Mary

A. Mary was called by God vs. 28

B. Mary was confused by the greeting vs 29

The Person of Jesus

A. Jesus is the Savior vs. 31

B. Jesus in the Son of God 32, 35

C. Jesus is the Sovereign King

The Power of God Vs. 34-37

1. Being determined to live for the Gospel vs. 1-2
2. Be realizing weakness vs. 3
3. By relying on God's power vs. 4-5

1. Jesus is Sinless
2. Jesus is Savior
3. Jesus is Sovereign

1. Don't make yourself feel inadequate
2. Get your "but" out of the way
3. 3. Give in, give in, and finally, GIVE IN!