Bethlehem Church of Christ Messages: Recent Episodes
Tom Claibourne
Messages from Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Ministers: Tom Claibourne and Christian Martin.
This message was presented by minister Tom Claibourne at the Bethlehem Church of Christ located at 505 Bethlehem Rd. Winchester, Ohio
This message was presented at the Bethlehem Church of Christ by minister Tom Calibourne on Sunday October 29, 2023.
This sermon was presented by minister Jim Bush at the Bethlehem Church of Christ located at 505 Bethlehem Rd., Winchester, Oh 45697
This sermon was presented by minister Tom Claibourne at the Bethlehem Church of Christ located at 505 Bethlehem Rd., Winchester, Oh 45697
This sermon was presented by minister Tom Claibourne at the Bethlehem Church of Christ located at 505 Bethlehem Rd. Winchester, Ohio 45697
This message was presented by minister Jim Bush on Oct 8 2023 at the Bethlehem Church Christ located at 505 Bethlehem Rd., Winchester, Oh. 45697
This message was presented by minister Tom Claibourne at the Bethlehem Church of Christ located at 505 Bethlehem Rd., Winchester, Ohio 45697.
This message was presented by minister Tom Claibourne at the Bethlehem Church of Christ located at 505 Bethlehem Rd., Winchester, Ohio 45697.
This sermon was presented by minister Tom Claibourne at the Bethlehem Church of Christ. The church is located at 505 Bethlehem Rd., Winchester, Ohio. 45697.
This message was presented at the Bethlehem Church of Christ by minster Tom Claibourne on September 10, 2023.
This message was presented by minister Tom Claibourne at the Bethlehem Church of Christ located at 505 Bethlehem Rd., Winchester, Ohio.
Be specific in your requests to Jesus. This message was presented by minister Tom Claibourne at the Bethlehem Church of Christ located at 505 Bethlehem Rd., Winchester, Oh. 45697
How strong is your faith? This message was presented by Kevin Whitsett at the Bethlehem Church of Christ located at 505 Bethlehem Rd., Winchester, Oh. 45697. 8-20-2023
This sermon was presented by minister Tom Claibourne at the Bethlehem Church of Christ located at 505 Bethlehem Rd., Winchester, OH. 45697.
Keeping Jesus central in your life. This sermon was presented by minister Tom Claibourne at the Bethlehem Church of Christ. The church is located at 505 Bethlehem Rd., Winchester, Ohio. 45697
This sermon was presented by minister Tom Claibourne at the Bethlehem Church of Christ located at 505 Bethlehem rd. Winchester, Ohio 45697
This sermon was presented by minister Tom Claibourne at the Bethlehem Church of Christ located at 505 Bethlehem Rd. Winchester, Ohio.
This sermon was presented by minister Tom Claibourne on July 16, 2023 at the Bethlehem Church of Christ.
This sermon was presented minister Tom Calibourne on July 9, 2023 at the Bethlehem Church of Christ located at 505 Bethlehem Rd. Winchester, Ohio.
This sermon was presented by Tom Claibourne on Sunday July 2, 2023 at the Bethlehem Church of Christ located at 505 Bethlehem Rd. Winchester, Ohio.
Being willing to obey God. This sermon was presented by Mark Hoff at the Bethlehem Church of Christ located at 505 Bethlehem Rd., Winchester, Ohio.
The responsibility of fathers. This sermon was presented by minister Tom Claibourne at the Bethlehem Church of Christ. The church is located at 505 Bethlehem Rd. Winchester, Oh.
The Armor Of God. This sermon was presented by minister Tom Claibourne on Sunday June 11, 2023 at the Bethlehem Church of Christ.
This message was presented by minster Tom Claibourne at the Bethlehem Church of Christ located on 505 Bethlehem Rd. Winchester, Ohio 45697 on June 4, 2023.
This sermon was presented at the Bethlehem Church of Christ by minister Tom Claibourne.
This sermon was presented by minister Tom Claibourne on May 14, 2023 at the Bethlehem Church of Christ located at 505 Bethlehem Rd. Winchester, Ohio
This sermon was presented by Christian Martin on April 30, 2023 at the Bethlehem Church of Christ located at 505 Bethlehem Rd. Winchester, Ohio.
This sermon was presented by Jim Bush on April 23, 2023 at the Bethlehem Church of Christ located at 505 Bethlehem Rd. Winchester, Ohio.
Kevin Whitsett presented this sermon on April 9, 2023 at the Bethlehem Church of Christ located at 505 Bethlehem Road, Winchester, Ohio.
This sermon was preached by minister Tom Claibourne at the Bethlehem Church of Christ on March 19, 2023. The church is located at 505 Bethlehem rd., Winchester, Ohio.
This sermon was preached by minister Tom Claibourne at the Bethlehem Church of Christ located at 505 Bethlehem Rd., Winchester, Oh. on March 12, 2023.
March 5, 2023. This sermon was preached by Tom Claibourne a the Bethlehem Church of Christ.
This sermon was preached on February 26, 2023 by Tom Claibourne at the Bethlehem Church of Christ l.ocated at 505 Bethlehem Rd. Winchester, Ohio
This sermon was preached on 2/19/23 by minister Tom Claibourne from the Bethlehem Church of Christ.
February 12, 2023. This sermon was preached by minister Kevin Whitsett at the Bethlehem Church of Christ located at 505 Bethlehem Rd. Winchester, Ohio 45697.
February 5, 2023. This sermon was preached by minister Tom Claibourne at the Bethlehem Church of Christ located at 505 Bethlehem Rd., Winchester, Ohio.
January 29, 2023. This sermon was preached by minister Tom Claibourne at the Bethlehem Church of Christ.
January 22, 2023. This sermon was preached by minister Tom Claibourne at the Bethlehem Church of Christ located at 505 Bethlehem Rd., Winchester, oh.
This sermon was preached on January 15, 2023 by minister Tom Claibourne at the Bethlehem Church of Christ located at 505 Bethlehem rd.
Winchester, Ohio 45697.
We can believe he is Sovereign Lord. This sermon was preached on January 8, 2023 at the Bethlehem Church of Christ by minister Tom Calibourne.
New Years Day! This sermon was preached by minister Tom Claibourne at the Bethlehem Church of Christ located at 505 Bethlehem Rd., Winchester, Ohio 45697.
Christmas Day. This sermon was preached on December 25, 2022 by minister Tom Claibourne at the Bethlehem Church of Christ located at 505 Bethlehem Rd., Winchester, Ohio
The role Joseph played in raising Jesus. This sermon was preached on Sunday 18, December by minster Tom Claibourne at the Bethlehem Church of Christ.
The church is located at 505 Bethlehem Rd., Winchester, Oh.
This sermon was preached on December 11 2022 at the Bethlehem Church of Christ by minister Tom Claibourne.
This sermon was preached on December 4, 2022 at the Bethlehem Church of Christ by minister Tom Claibourne. The church is located at 505 Bethlehem
Rd. Winchester, Oh 45697.
This sermon was preached at the Bethlehem Church of Christ by minister Alex Eddy on November 27, 2022.
This sermon was preached on November 13, 2022 by minister Tom Claibourne at the Bethlehem Church of Christ located at 505 Bethlehem Rd. Winchester, Ohio 45697.
Instructions on prayer
This sermon was preached on October 30, 2022 at the Bethlehem Church of Christ by minister Tom Claibourne. The church is located at 505 Bethlehem Rd.,
Winchester, Ohio 45697.
Praying within God's Will. This sermon was preached on Oct. 23, 2022 by minister Tom Claibourne at the Bethlehem Church of Christ located at 505
Bethlehem Rd., Winchester, Ohio 45697.
This sermon was preached at the Bethlehem Church of Christ by minister Tom Claibourne on Oct. 16, 2022.
The importance of prayer in our lives.
This sermon was preached on October 9, 2022 at the Bethlehem Church of Christ by minister Tom Claibourne. The church is located at 505 Bethlehem Rd.,
Winchester, Ohio 45697.
This sermon was preached By Jim Bush at the Bethlehem Church of Christ located at 505 Bethlehem Rd., Winchester, Ohio on October 2, 2022.
Let us Survive & Thrive
This sermon was preached on Sunday September 25, 2022 by minister Tom Claibourne at the Bethlehem Church of Christ located at 505 Bethlehem Rd.,
Winchester, Ohio 45697.
This sermon was preached by minister Tom Claibourne at the Bethlehem Church of Christ located at 505 Bethlehem Rd., Winchester, Ohio 45697.
Our faith will tested! This sermon was preached by minister Tom Claibourne on Sept. 11, 2022 at the Bethlehem Church of Christ located at 505 Bethlehem
Rd., Winchester, Ohio. 45697
How are we being filled up? This sermon was preached on September 4, 2022 by minister Tom Claibourne at the Bethlehem Church of Christ located
at 505 Bethlehem Rd., Winchester, Ohio 45697.
Tom Claibourne preached this sermon on August 28, 2022 at the Bethlehem Church of Christ located at 505 Bethlehem Rd., Winchester, Ohio. Is it about us or God?
This sermon was preached by Kevin Whitsett on August 8, 2022 at the Bethlehem Church of Christ located at 505 Bethlehem Rd., Winchester, Oh. 45697.
This sermon was preached by minister Tom Claibourne on August 14, 2022 at the Bethlehem Church of Christ. The church is located at 505 Bethlehem Rd., Winchester, Ohio 45697.
This sermon was preached on August 7, 2022 by Tom Claibourne, minister of the Bethlehem Church of Christ. The church is located at 505 Bethlehem Rd., Winchester, Ohio 45697.
This sermon was preached on July 31, 2022 by minister Tom Claibourne at the Bethlehem Church of Christ located at 505 Bethlehem Rd. Winchester, Ohio
This sermon was preached on July 24, 2022 by Tom Claibourne at the Bethlehem Church of Christ located at 505 Bethlehem Rd., Winchester, Ohio 45697.
This sermon was preached by Tom Claibourne on July 17, 2022 at the Bethlehem Church of Christ located at 505 Bethlehem Rd., Winchester, Ohio 45697.
This sermon was preached by Tom Claibourne on July 10, 2022. At Bethlehem Church of Christ located at 505 Bethlehem Rd.
Winchester, Ohio. 45697.
This sermon was preached by Tom Claibourne on Sunday July 3, 2022 at the Bethlehem Church of Christ located at 505 Bethlehem Rd. Winchester, ohio. 45697
This sermon was preached on June 26, 2022 by Tom Claibourne. The subject is about how sacred life is. It was preached at the Bethlehem Church of Christ located at 505 Bethlehem Rd. Winchester, Ohio.
This sermon was preached on June 19, 2022 by Tom Claibourne at the Bethlehem Church of Christ located at 505 Bethlehem Rd., Winchester, Ohio 45697.
This sermon was preached by Tom Claibourne on June 12, 2022, from the Bethlehem Church of Christ, located at 505 Bethlehem Rd.,
Winchester, Ohio 45697.
This message was preached on June 5, 2022 By Tom Claibourne, minister of the Bethlehem Church of Christ. Located at
505 Bethlehem Road, Winchester, Ohio. 45697
This sermon was preached on Sunday May 29, 2022 by Tom Claibourne, minister at the Bethlehem Church of Christ at 505 Bethlehem Rd. Winchester, Ohio.
Sermon preached by Christian Martin at the Bethlehem Church of Chri* John 8:48-59
- We live in a culturethat is struggling to find identity.
- Are you the who you want to be?
John*:48-53
- Who exactly do you think you are?
John 8:54-59
Passages for context (John 8:24, 28; Exodus 3:14-15; Lev. 24:16)
- They were so caught up in what was said that they missed what was meant.
- It isn't about who I am, but who He is.st on May 22, 2022.
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on May8th, 2022 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
I. She messed Up. (Matt 20:20-28)
A. She misunderstood Jesus' purposes (John 18:36)
B. She misunderstood greatness.C. She misunderstood parent's role.
II. She *suffered disappointment.
A. When her boys left the family business (Mark 1:16-20)
B. When she watched Jesus die. (Mark 15:40; Acts 12:1-2)
III.She didn't let her past failure hinder her future service. (Mark 15:40-41).
A. She found a way to serve and make an impact. (Matt 27:55-56).
We worship a God of second chances.B. She encouraged her sons in their work with Jesus.
IV. She served to the end. (Mark 16:1).
I will make it clear who I am serving, and will follow the
God of second chances to the end *
Christian Martin's sermon preached on May 1st, 2022 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
I. New stuff! (Rev. 21:1-8)
- Old stuff out, new stuff in. (1-4)
- Reward and punishment. (5-8)
II. More new stuff!* (Rev. 21:9-27)
- The Bride (9-14)
- Some important measurements (15-21)
- No temple* (22-27)
III. Tree of life. (Rev. 22-1-5)
- Worship, comfort, belonging
IV. "I'll Be back."(Rev. 22:6-21)
- Key verses:
- "I am coming soon" (6-7)
- Serve and worship (9)
- Reimbursement and rebates (10-16)
- Come and drink from the water of life (17-21)
8 times in Revelation mentions that the time is near, and Jesus is coming soon. Are you ready?
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on April 24th, 2022 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
Introduction: Numbers, charts, & lots of theories (20:1-6)
"thousand" -- Ex. 20:6; Dt. 1:11; 7:9; Ps. 50:10; 90:4; I Sam. 18:7; II Pet. 3:8)
I. Let's celebrate Jesus' Kingdom. (20:1-6)
"Kingdom" in Revelation (Rev. 1:6; 5:10; 11:15; 12:10-11)
Jesus' use of "Kingdom" (Lk. 1:32, 33; Mark 1:14-15; 9:1; Matt. 5-7, 13; John 3:3-5; 6:14-15, 66; 18:33-36; Matt. 16:17-19 & Acts 2)
Other Bible verses (Dan. 2:44; I Pet. 1 & 2; Eph. 1:20-22)
II. Let's celebrate Satan's defeat. (Gen. 3:15; Rom. 16:20; Rev. 12)
His binding. (20:1-3)
Jude 6; I Jn. 3:8; Heb. 2:14; Matt. 12:29; Lk. 10:17-18; Jn. 12:31-32; I Jn. 4:4; Rev. 1:17-18; 12:10; Col. 2:15
His final destruction. (20:7-10)
Rev. 17:14; 19:19; Rom. 16:20
III. Let's celebrate resurrection. (20:4-6)
Jesus' resurrection.
A resurrection from this life. (Lk. 16:19ff)
A Spiritual resurrection. (Eph. 2:1. 5-6; Col. 2:12-13; 3:1ff; Rom 6:3ff)
A final resurrection. (John 5:28-29; 6:40; I Th. 4:16-17; Rev. 2:11)
IV. Let's celebrate the book of life. (20:11-15)
The Lamb's book of life. (Rev. 3:5; 13:8; 17:8; 21:17)
If you are born once, you die twice.
If you are born twice, you die once.
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on April 17th, 2022 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
John's journey with Jesus (and our journey)
- 2,000 years of changed lives
John's writings for God
- the life story of Jesus; 3 letters; The Revelation
Jesus the Lamb
- John's understanding (John 1:29; Last Supper; The Cross)
- Rev. 5:5-6; 7:14; 12:11; 14:1; 17:14; 19:7: 21:9
Jesus the Risen One
- The significance of Jesus' resurrection
- Rev. 1:5; 1:17-18; 2:8; 5:5-6; 5:12; 17:14; 19:11-16; 22:7, 12-13, 20
What will you do with the Risen Lamb?
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on April 10th, 2022 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
Take your pick ...
I. Will you choose the losers or the Lamb?
- The Babylonians and the beasts are the losers. (Rev. 17; 18:6-7)
- The Lamb - King wins.
- Worthy lamb. (Jn. 1:29, 32; Rev. 5:6, 9, 12)
- Conquering King. (19:11ff)
Luke 19:41-44
II. Will you choose the blood of judgment or the blood of Jesus? (19:13)
- We can receive God's judgment. (18:4-5)
- We can enjoy God's forgiveness.
- Key: The blood of Jesus. (5:9; 7:14; 18;20; 19:1ff)
- Four Hallelujah's. (19:1-6)
- A choice of two dinners. (19:6-9; 17-21)
III. Will you choose to perish or rejoice?
- Perish with the foolish. (17:4; 18:2ff; I Jn. 2:15-17; Gal. 1:3-4)
- Rejoice with the faithful. (II Pet. 3:9ff; Rev. 19:7-10; 17:14)
We can still change sides!
It is time to decide while we still have time to decide.
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on April 3rd, 2022 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
I. God's judgment is certain.
- Key theme all through Scripture.
- Part of God's nature. (15:3-4)
- Judges 11:27; Ps. 7:11; II Tim. 4:8; Heb. 12:23; I Pet. 4:5
II. God's judgment is good. (15:3-4; Ch. 16)
- The "Battle of Armageddon" is not going to be much of a battle.
III. God's judgment is fair. (16:5-7)
- It is based on His perfect knowledge. (Gen. 18:20ff; Rev. 6:9-10)
- It is what we all deserve. (Rom. 3:23; 6:23; Ps. 103:10)
- God's judgment is fair. His grace is more than fair.
IV. God's judgment follows loving warnings. (Num. 14:18; Rev. 16)
V. God's judgment can be avoided.
- An opportunity to repent. (II Pet. 3:9ff; Rev. 9:20-21; 16:9-11)
- An offer from God. (Rom. 1:18; 5:8-9; 6:3ff; 8:1)
- Celebrating the rescue. (15:1-4)
Two options: 16:9 or 16:15; Gal. 3:26-27
It is our choice!
Tom Claibourne's messaged preached on March 27th, 2022 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
I. The servants of Satan.
- First Beast (13:1-9): Anti-Christian government.
- Persecution
- Second Beast (13:11-15): Anti-Christian religion
- False teaching (16:13; 19:20; II Cor. 11:13-15)
- "Antichrist" - I John 2:18, 22; 4:3; II John 7
- Babylon (14:8): Anti-Christian seduction.
- Immorality
- The Mark (13:16-18; Deut. 6:6-8; Rev. 7:3-4; 9:4)
II. The judgment of God.
- Blessings for the redeemed. (14:1-7, 13)
- The Mark of God.
- Giving praise.
- Blessed death.
- Wrath on the wicked. (14:8-11, 14-20)
III. The lessons for us today.
- We must demonstrate ...
- Faithfulness. (13:10; 14:12; 2:10)
- Courage. (13 & 14)
- Godliness. (14:4-5)
Who do you belong to?
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on March 20th, 2022 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
I. A continuous struggle.
- God & Man
- God loves us and desires a relationship with us. (Gen. 3:15)
- God & Satan (Gen. 3; Eph. 6:12)
- Satan fought against God's promise.
II. A Glorious victory.
- The devil failed to destroy the Christ child. (1-5)
- The woman represents the people of God.
- The devil lost the war with Michael. (7-9; Jude 9)
- The devil fails to destroy God's faithful church. (10-17)
- Satan's accusation can't stand up. (10, 11; Rom. 3:23; Rev. 1:5; 5:9; 7:14; Rom. 8:31-34)
- God's church continues to spread. (13ff; Acts 8:1-4; Matt. 16:16)
- Satan can kill the body but not the soul. (15-17; Rev. 2:10)
- Satan's time is limited. (12; Luke 22:53; Rom. 16:20; Gen. 3:15)
There will be no fear if we are covered by the blood of the Lamb.
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on March 13th, 2022 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
I. God's Gospel must be shared no matter what. (10)
- His messengers
- An angel (10:1-6)
- Prophets (10:7) - the mystery. (Rom. 16:25-27)
- John (10:8-11)
- The message = the Gospel. (10:9-10)
- A sweet message. (Ps. 119:103)
- A sour message.
II. God's people will be opposed until Christ returns. (11:1-10)
- The people of God (Temple, Witnesses, Olive Trees, Lampstands).
- The attacks of Satan (11:7-10)
III. God's Lordship will be established when Christ returns. (11:11-19)
- Restoration of God's people. (11:11-12)
- Judgment on evil. (11:18)
- Blessings for the righteous.
- Celebration. (11:16-17)
- Reward. (11:18)
- Fellowship. (11:19)
Am I for God or against Him?
Christian Martin's sermon preached on March 6th, 2022 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
Things to Remember with Revelation:
-
It is dangerous to read everything in Revelation as LITERAL.
-
It is dangerous to read everything in Revelation as FIGURATIVE.
-
It is dangerous to read Revelation without properly understanding the OLD TESTAMENT.
Revelation 8:1-5
1a. The SEVENTH SEAL (Final Judgment)
1b. The SILENCE
- The SEVENS (Angels and Trumpets)
3-5. The SACRIFICE
Revelation 8:6-12
- 1st Trumpet - Hail, FIRE, Blood (Ex. 9:22-25; Ezek. 5:12)
8-9. 2nd Trumpet - Mountain of FIRE, Sea of Blood (Jer. 51:25; Ex. 7:20)
10-11. 3rd Trumpet - Fallen STAR (Is. 14:12-15; Ex. 7:19; Ps. 78:44)
- 4th Trumpet - Sun, Moon, STARS Darkened (Rev. 6:12-13; Ex. 10:23; Ezek. 32:7-8)
Revelation 8:13 - Last 3 TRUMPETS, First 3 WOES
Revelation 9
1-12. 5th Trumpet - LOCUSTS from SATAN (Rev. 1:8; Lk. 1-:18-20)
13-19. 6th Trumpet - RIDERS of CHAOS
- Unbelievers tormented by Satan and his demons spiritually and physically about their hopelessness apart from God.
20-21. The SUFFERING (Ex. 7-14 with Pharaoh; Matt. 28 - Great Commission)
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on February 27th, 2022 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
I. Suffering is part of this life. (6:1-8; John 16:33; Acts 14:21-22)
- White horse - Gospel conquest. (2)
- Red horse - Bloody persecution. (3-4; Matt. 24:9)
- Black horse - Economic hardship. (5-6; 13:16-18)
- Pale horse - Death (Hades). (7-8)
II. Suffering helps cleanse us.
- It calls us to examine ourselves.
- It prompts us to seek God. (Rom. 8:28)
III. Suffering is not the final word. (6:9-17; Ch. 7)
- God is with us. (7:3-10; Eph. 1:13-14; II. Cor. 1:21-22; Rom. 8:16)
- God is still on His throne. (7:10-12)
- God will bring a new day without suffering. (7:13-17)
Our only hope: the blood of the Lamb. (7:14)
I will hang on, stay near God's throne, & near Jesus' cross.
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on February 20th, 2022 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
I. Worship is a tool to help us see God.We never fully see God in this life. (4:2-6)
Each aspect of worship gives us a glimpse of God. (5:9, 12-13; 4:8 & Isaiah 6)
II. Worship is God-centered. (4:8, 11)It is about God, not me.
We see our unworthiness. (1:17)
We see God on his throne. (4:1-6; Ps. 47:7-8; 93:1-2; 99:1-3)
We see the world from God's perspective. (4:3)
There is peace at the throne of God!
III. Worship is a natural response to worthiness. (5:1-4; 4:11; 5:9, 12)A response to who God is. (4:8-11)
A response to what God does. (5:1-12)
God sent a Lamb for us. (John 1:29)
IV. Worship is bowing before God. (4:10; 5:8; 5:13-14)In humility. (5:2-4; Isa. 6:3-5)
In adoration. (4:4, 10)
In preparation for service. (5:10; 1:5-6)
In repentance.
God, what do you want me to do?
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on February 13th, 2021 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
I. Facts about Jesus Christ.
- He knows what's happening. (1:12-13, 20)
- He is Lord. (1:12-18)
- He is returning. (2:5, 16, 25; 3:3, 11, 20)
II. Affirmation, correction & warning for Jesus' church.
- God wants to encourage and strengthen His church. (Eph. 5:25-27)
- The devil wants to destroy the church. (2:9, 10; 2:13; 2:24; 3:9)
III. Challenges for us.
- We should pay attention to God. (2:7, 11, 17, 29; 3:6, 13, 22)
- We should be realistic about sin. (2:14; 2:20-22; 2:15; 2:2-4; 3:1-2; Num. 22-25)
- We should repent when necessary. (2:5, 16, 21-23; 3:2-3, 19; Acts 2:38; Acts 3:19; 19:17-20)
- We should be faithful no matter what happens. (2:10; 13; 19)
The promises of God are for those who overcame.
/It's time to open the door. (3:20)
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on February 6th, 2022 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
I. Jesus is incredible. (1:5)
- The faithful witness.
- The firstborn from the dead. (Col. 1:18; I Cor. 15:20-23)
- The Ruler of the kings of the earth. (Rev. 1:12-16)
II. Jesus loves us. (1:5)
- The great King loaves us!
- the power( of love.
III. Jesus freed us by His blood. (1:5; I Cor. 6:9-11)
- "Freed" is past tense.
- Redemption by blood. (Eph. 1:7; Rev. 5:5-10)
IV. Jesus made us priests to serve. (1:6)
- Every Christian is a priest. (I Peter 2:5, 9)
- God saved us to serve. (Matt. 20:28)
Someday Jesus will return to ask us how well we've done with the mission He left for us. (1:7-8; Dan. 7:13; Zech. 12:10; Matt. 24:30-31)
Will I mourn or rejoice when Jesus returns?
Tom Claibourne's message preached on January 31st, 2022 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
I. A message from God. (1:1-2)
- An unveiling.
- The messenger: John the Apostle. (1:4, 9-10; 22:8)
- The culmination of the Bible.
II. A message for God's people. (1:4, 11)
- In the late first century. (2:3, 9-10, 13)
- In all ages. (Rev. 13:10; 14:12)
III. A message of hope. (1:3, 22:6-7)
- The battle is still raging. (6:9-11)
- Jesus is coming back. (1:7; 22:7, 20)
- God will win! (Rev. 17:14)
- He is in control. (11:15; Lk. 22:52-53)
- His people will dwell with Him. (17:14)
Rev. 1:3; 22:12-17
I will live with hope, stand firm, and answer God's call.
Olan Truesdell and Kyle Berry's sermon preached on January 23rd, 2022 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH as part of the Youth Service.
Outline:
Luke 24:13-35
Luke 24:36-53
I. Matthew + Time with Jesus = Radical Transformation
- Matthew 9:9-13
II. Simon Peter + Time with Jesus = Radical Transformation
- Luke 22:54-62
III. Herod - Time with Jesus = A Lack of Transformation
- Luke 14:11
Tom Claibourne's message preached on January 16th, 2022 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
I. Learning from challenges and blessings.
- Covid and the public response to it, have caused: uncertainty, suffering, distrust, division, fear, spiritual apathy, and inactivity.
II. Renewing our mind. (Rom. 12:2; 8:5-8; Eph. 4:17, 22-24; II Pet. 3:1; I Cor. 14:20)
- A God mindset. (Ps. 27:1, 4, 8, 14; 57:5, 11: 62:1-2)
- A Grace mindset. (Eph. 2:3-10; Romans)
- A Truth mindset. (Isa. 59:12-15; John 8:32)
- A Mission mindset. (Matt. 28:18-20; Acts 5:41-42; Luke 9:23)
- A Team mindset. (Heb. 10:23-25)
- An Excellence mindset. (Col. 3:23-24)
- An Eternal Life mindset. (II Cor. 4:16-18; Phil. 1:21ff)
I will renew my mind, my heart, and my commitment by the power of God's Spirit.
Christian Martin's sermon preached on January 9th, 2022 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
Luke 5:1-5
- A problem with rewinding: when we rewind for God, it's almost like we think we are giving God new information.
Luke 5:6-7
- We miss appointments with Jesus in the here and now when we spend all of our time rewinding and fast forwarding.
Luke 5:8-11
- They didn't worry about the past anymore.
- You have the same opportunity that Peter had, to live in the past or to follow Jesus now: to live for your present in His presence.
Will you start this year by letting God have the remote?
Tom Claibourne's message preached on January 2nd, 2022 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
I. God's still workin' on His church, so cooperate!
- No congregation is perfect.
- God works to perfect His people.
- Through history.
- At Bethlehem.
II. God's still workin' on other people, so be understanding!
- We're each on a journey in a sin-cursed world. (Rom. 8:18ff)
- We each have our failures.
- We each can change. (Bible examples)
- We need each other. (Prov. 27:17; Eph. 4:2; Col. 3:12-14; I Thess. 5:14; Heb. 10:24-25)
III. God's still workin' on us, so grow! (II Pet. 3:18)
- Power through suffering.
- Power over sin.
- Power for the climb.
- Power for the long haul. (Phil. 2:12-13)
Will you surrender to the amazing work of God?
Tom Claibourne's message preached on December 26th, 2021 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
I. Mankind's Problem (1-5)
- Sin is the problem. (Isa. 8:19-22)
- Sin affects everyone.
- Sin is the backdrop of the Christmas story. (Luke 2:10-11)
(Jesus came to be Savior)
II. God's Promise (1-5)
- He offers hope. (Matt. 4:12-16)
- Hope anticipates the future
III. God's Gift (6-7)
- Wonderful Counselor (Isa. 11:1-2; 28:29; Col. 2:3)
- Takes care of the decisions of life.
- Mighty God (Isa. 7:14; Matt. 1:22-23; Ex. 3:11-12)
- Takes care of the demands of life.
- Everlasting Father (Heb. 13:8; Isa. 9:6-7)
- Takes care of all the dimensions of life.
- Prince of Peace (Lk. 2:14; John 14:27)
- Takes care of the disturbances of life.
I will trust the Life-giving (changing) Savior with my life.
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on December 19th, 2021 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
I. A distorted world.
- The fall of mankind changed everything. (Gen. 1-3)
- The result: An upside down world. (Gal. 4:4-5)
II. A divine plan.
- To send a Deliverer. (Gen. 3:15; Lk. 1:67-75)
- To make a point in the way He sent the Deliverer.
- A King in a manger. (Rev. 1:4-5; 19:14-16; 17:14)
- God was showing He has different priorities than us. (II Cor. 8:9)
- Angels with shepherds. (Lk. 2:8-10)
- God was showing that His ways are greater than ours. (Isa. 55:8-9)
- Born to die. (John 3:16; 10:11, 17-18)
- God was showing that His purpose is eternal and His love is limitless.
- A King in a manger. (Rev. 1:4-5; 19:14-16; 17:14)
III. A decisive opportunity.
- God's amazing offer. (II Cor. 5:17)
- Our amazing opportunity.
Mark 8:34-36
I will die to really live.
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on December 12th, 2021 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
I. Don't forget what a "holiday" is.
- "A day intended to be special and different, as a time of remembrance and honor."
Bible Festivals (Deut. 16) * Praise (16:1, 10-11, 15) * Remembering (Ex. 12:24-27) * Joy (Deut. 16:10-11, 13-15) * Giving (Deut. 16:10, 16, 17)
II. Don't be afraid of "Christmas."
III. Don't miss the symbols.
- Lights (John 8:12; 10:22; Luke 2:8-9)
- Star (Matt. 2:2; 9-10; Rev. 22:16)
- Gifts (Matt. 2:11; James 1:17; John 3:16)
- Evergreen tree (Hosea 14:8)
- Candy cane (John 10; Isaiah 53)
IV. Don't lose your focus: Jesus! (Luke 1, 2; I Cor. 10:31; Col. 3:17)
What will you find this Christmas? It depends on where your heart is.
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on December 5th, 2021 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
I. We are each gifted: by God's grace. (4:10)
- Most obvious gift: forgiveness & salvation. (Rom. 5:15-17)
- Specific, personal gifts. (Rom. 12:3-8)
II. We are each responsible: to serve. (4:10)
- Giftedness leads to responsibility & responsibility leads to service. (Acts 1:8; Rom. 7:4; Gal. 5:13; I Pet. 2:9)
- We must prove worthy of God's trust. (Luke 12:48; I Cor. 4:1-2)
III. We are each dependent: upon each other. (4:10-11)
- The church is like a body. (I Cor. 12:12ff; Eph. 4:15-16) and a building. (Eph. 2:19-22)
- We need each other! (I Cor. 12:4-7)
- Church should be more like VBS.
IV. We are each empowered: by God's strength. (4:11; I Cor. 1:26-29)
Because of God's love and grace, I will serve and follow faithfully until the end.
Christian Martin's sermon preached on November 28th, 2021 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
John 11:45 - 57’ John 20:1 - 10; Rev. 21:1 - 8
I. The ______________ of ____________________. (John 11: 45 - 57)
· Jesus’ decision: Go to His _______________, or __________ __________.
· The _____________ of ________________ pointed to the ____________.
II. Jesus shows ______________ over ______________ with the
________________________. (John 20:1 - 10)
· The ___________ and _________________ pointed to the ____________.
III. The Endgame. (Rev. 21:1 - 8)
· The Old Testament points to ___________________.
The New Testament points us to ________________.
Jesus points us to ___________________.
________________________.
Are you ____________ with the “________________” in __________?
Tom Claibourne's message preached on November 21st, 2021 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
I. Feeling entitled after being released from slavery. (Num. 11:1-9; I Cor. 10:10-11)
II. Feeling grateful while still imprisoned. (Phil. 4:10-13, 19)
- Don't live under the circumstances. (II Cor. 11:24ff)
- Be content in any circumstance.
- Be aware of the presence of God. (4:6-7, 9; Heb. 13:5-6)
- Be aware of the provision of God. (4:19)
- Be alert to the purposes of God. (2:12-13, 1:12-14; 4:22; Rom. 8:28; I Thess. 5:16-18)
The Ten Contrasts
Gratitude - Entitlement
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Reflects realism. - Reflects self-deception.
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Opens our eyes. - Blinds us.
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Prompts worship of God. - Prompts worship of self.
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Reflects humility. - Reflects pride.
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Leads to praise. - Leads to whining.
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Fosters contentment. - Fosters resentment.
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Brings joy. - Breeds negativity.
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Celebrates blessings. - Focuses on perceived slights.
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Prompts generosity. - Prompts selfishness.
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Promotes unity. - Promotes division.
Will I remain imprisoned by a sense of entitlement, or be freed by a heart of gratitude?
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on November 14th, 2021 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
I. Who is "The Lord your God"? (Ex. 20:1-3)
- The God who is Lord. (Ex. 19:16-19)
- The God who loves us. (Ex. 20:2)
- The God who is jealous. (Ex. 34:14; Zech. 8:2)
II. Which is the greatest commandment?
- There were many Old Testament commandments.
- There were ten very foundational commandments.
- Jesus declared which two were the greatest. (Deut. 6:5; Lev. 19:18)
III. What does it look like to obey the two greatest commandments?
- Love the Lord God above all else. (Ex. 20:3-11; John 21:15)
- Love others
- As ourself. (Lev. 19:18; Ex. 20:12-17; Matt. 7:12; Rom. 13:9-10)
- As God has loved us. (John 13:34-35; I Jn. 4:19-21, 7-12)
IV. What happens if we reverse the two greatest commandments? (John 8:1-11; I Cor. 6:9-11; Matt. 19:3-6; Gen. 1 & 2)
V. What happens if we disobey the commandments of God?
- We mess things up. (Gen. 2-3)
- We separate ourselves from God (Rom. 6:23; Mark 12:28-34)
Do you really love God?
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on November 7th, 2021 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
I. "Christian" means Christ-follower.
- Acts 11:26 - A Christian is one who tells about Christ no matter what. (Acts 11:19-25; Isaiah 62:2)
- Acts 26:28 - A Christian is one who shows others what it means to follow Christ.
- Agrippa saw Paul's association with Christ.
- Agrippa saw the cost of following Christ.
- I Peter 4:16 - A Christian is one who glorifies God by wearing Christ's name well. (4:12-19)
- Our actions will reflect Christ.
- Our courage and loyalty will reflect Christ. (Acts 5:41-42; Matt. 5:10-12)
II. "Christian" means Christ above all. (Gal. 2:20)
4 types of people
- Those who say, "Not Christ, but I"
- Those who say, "I and Christ"
- Those who say, "Christ and I"
- Those who say, "Not I but Christ" (Luke 9:23-25)
Galatians 3:26-28
Am I a Christian or am I living for myself?
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on October 31st, 2021 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
I. God intends for us to use discernment. (Gen. 1:26-28; Proverbs)
- We are created in the image of God.
II. We must use discernment.
A. Satan is a deceiver. (Gen. 3; John 8:44; II Cor. 11:13-15, 3; 4:4; I Pet. 5:8-9)
B. Falsehood is rampant. (Isa. 59:12-15; I John 4:1-3)
C. Life is full of choices.
Steps to developing a discerning heart and mind 1. Seek it from God. (James 1:5)
a. Prayer. (I Kings 3:9)
b. The Bible. (Ps. 119:66; Hos. 4:6; II Tim. 3:16-17)
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Don't trust your heart alone. (Jer. 17:9-10; I Cor. 4:3-4)
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Seek and honor truth.
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Don't believe everything you read or hear. (Prov. 14:15; 18:13, 15, 17; Matt. 7:6, 15ff; John 7:24; Acts 17:11; I Th. 5:21-22)
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Seek counsel from godly, wise people. (Prov. 12:15)
Who will you believe and follow?
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on October 24th, 2021 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
I. "Weird" and "normal" are relative terms.
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A. It depends on surrounding realities in culture.
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B. When "normal" violates Biblical principles, it's time to be weird! (Romans 12:1-2)
II. Some Biblical models of weirdness.
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A. Noah (Genesis 6)
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B. Ruth & Boaz (Book of Ruth)
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C. Daniel (Daniel 1)
III. A Bible guide for living weird in a sin-filled world. (1 Peter 2:9-12; 20-25)
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A. Live as a special light. (9-10)
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B. Live as an alien. (11; 1:1)
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C. Live as an abstainer. (12)
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D. Live above the accusations. (12)
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E. Live like Jesus. (20-25)
Do you have the faith and the courage to live with a holy weirdness?
Tom Claibourne's message preached on October 17th, 2021 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
I. What religion is and is not.
- Religion is not Christianity.
- Anti-religion is not Anti-church.
II. Religion can be bad or good.
- Religion is bad when...
- It is built on false teaching.
- It becomes empty and loses its meaning. (Amos 5:21-23; Mark 7:5ff)
- It is not matched by our life. (Matt. 23; Lk. 11:37ff; Rom. 2:19-24; James 1:26)
- It becomes prideful. (Lk. 18:9-14)
- It is viewed as a vehicle for salvation. (Rom. 1-3)
- It becomes an end in itself. (Col. 2:6ff)
III. Biblical religion was always intended to enhance our relationship with God.
- God's eternal desire. (Gen. 1-3)
- God's misunderstood plan.
- God's gracious invitation. (Acts 2:36-41)
- God-ordained practices. (Acts 2:42)
- God-centered unity. (Acts 2:44ff)
- God-centered relationships. (Heb. 10:19-25)
Is your hope in religion or in Jesus Christ?
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on October 10th, 2021 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
I. The Faith was given by an unchanging God.
-
"I AM" (Ex. 3:14)
-
"The God of Abraham, Isaac, & Jacob."
II. The Faith responds to an unchanging problem: Sin. (Rom. 5:12; 6:23)
III. The Faith offers an unchanging solution: Grace. (Gen. 3:8-9, 21, 15)
IV. The Faith is communicated through an unchanging message. (Matt. 24:35)
V. The Faith explains an unchanging response.
The Faith -> confession
-> repentance
-> baptism
Baptism and the Lord's Supper honor and celebrate the atoning blood of Jesus Christ. And Satan hates the blood.
VI. The Faith is perpetuated through an unchanging mission. (Eph. 1:4; Rev. 7:9)
VII. The Faith culminates in the changing of lives. (Rom. 1:16; I Cor. 6:9-11; II Tim. 2:9)
Will you let The Faith change you and others around you?
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on October 3th, 2021 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
- God has the last word, because He had the first word. (Gen. 1:1-3)
I. God spoke a powerful Word.
- The power of the spoken word.
- God has spoken (Gen. 1:3; Heb. 11:3;Ps. 148:5; II Pet. 3:3-5; Ps. 33:6, 9)
II. God spoke a consistent Word.
- God's Word will not conflict with the world He created. (Ps. 19)
- God's Word will not conflict with itself.
- Genesis is the basis for "The Faith."
III. God spoke the saving Word. (Genesis 3:15; John 1; Rom. 5:12-14, 17; I Cor. 15:21-22; 15:45-47)
IV. God spoke a Word of warning. (II Pet. 3:3-7)
Three important events: creation, the worldwide flood, the day of judgment.
V. God spoke a Word of hope. (II Pet. 3:9, 13-15; Gen. 3:15; Rev. 20:10; Heb. 12:22-29)
Will you let God have the last word in your life?
Christian Martin's sermon preached on September 26th, 2021 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
URGENT CARE Luke 5:27-32
“What if, instead of going to the doctor’s office for an illness or an ailment, we went because we had a spiritual illness or ailment?”
“Because I think if we really had a spiritual check-up and we diagnosed some spiritual ailments, quite a few of us would be scared of the lab results we would get back.”
Serious Question: WHY are you HERE? (John 14:6)
Luke 5:27-32 (our text)
WHO is LEVI?
- Some help:
- Luke 6:12-16
- Matthew 9:9-13
Luke 5:28
o “LEAVING EVERYTHING”
Luke 5:29
- Matthew takes Jesus to his home to host a party.
- COMMUNITY and ACCEPTANCE.
Luke 5:30-32
“He came (as the PHYSICIAN) to call sinners to repentance (the SICK) and he (the PHYSICIAN) did not come for the righteous (the WELL).”
- Romans 3:9-12 (the pandemic)
“Maybe just going to the waiting room at the doctor’s office will make me better, or maybe just calling and speaking with the receptionist will fix me.”
o Seeing the DOCTOR makes you BETTER. (John 14:6)
- Romans 3:23; 6:23
All of us are sick and in need of the GREAT PHYSICIAN.
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on September 19th, 2021 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
"What Happens at Bethlehem Should NOT Stay at Bethlehem" 1. Gen. 35:19-21 - A death at Bethlehem: Rachel (See also Jer. 31:15-17)
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The Book of Ruth - A Godly family at Bethlehem: (1:1, 2, 6, 22; 4:17)
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Boaz & Ruth
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I Sam. 16:1, 13 - A hero at Bethlehem: David (See also Jer. 23:5, 6)
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Micah 5:1-5 - A promise at Bethlehem: A Savior / King
[interlude : Luke 1:26-33; Matt. 1:1, 5-6; 16; 21-23]
Right family; wrong city
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Luke 2:1-7, 10-11 - A birth at Bethlehem: Jesus (See also 2:15-18)
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Luke 2 & Matt. 2 - A beginning point at Bethlehem: Jesus' rescue mission.
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A.D. 30 to A.D. 2021 - A rocky history at Bethlehem: Battles and disputes. (Acts 17:24-25)
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A church called "Bethlehem": You and Me. What now?
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on September 12th, 2021 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
Jerusalem: A Stage for God I. A city to study over.
- Significant in world history.
- Significant in Bible history. (more than 800 references)
II. A city to look over.
III. A city to fight over.
IV. A city to weep over.
- Jews have wept there. (Lamentations; Jer. 6:8; 9:11; 26:18)
- Jesus has wept there. (Lk. 19:41-44; Matt. 23:37-39)
V. A city to celebrate over.
- God has taught lessons there. (I Kings 14:21; Ps. 132:13-14; Isa. 62:1-2)
- God has shown His power there. (Ps. 51:18)
- God has shown His grace there. (Gen. 22:1-2, 9-14; II Chron. 3:1)
- God has provided peace there. (Rom. 5:1; Isa. 2:1-3; Acts 1-2; Zech. 13:1; John 14:27; Ps. 125:1-2)
Let's remember Jerusalem. (Ps. 137:4-6; Rev. 21:1-4) and fulfill our vows to God. (Ps. 116:17-19)
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on September 5th, 2021 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
Blessing Others on the Journey of Life (The Panama Canal)
Genesis 12:1-4
I. Let's bring people joy. (Rom. 12:9-18)
II. Let's meet people's needs. (Rom. 12:13; Mk. 2:1ff; I John 3:16-18)
III. Let's help people grow. (Heb. 10:24; II Tim. 3:16-4:3)
- Teach and train
- Rebuke and correct
- Don't do everything for them.
IV. Let's protect people. (Eph. 6:18-20; John 17:15; James 5:16)
V. Let's offer hope. (Heb. 10:23-25)
- For the moment.
- For the future. (Gen. 12:3; Gal. 3:8-9, 13-14)
Jesus was the ultimate people-blesser. This week I will open my eyes and heart to bless others.
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on August 29th, 2021 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, Ohio.
Outline:
I. Some walls are NECESSARY and GOOD.
They are necessary because of SIN.
A. PHYSICAL protection. (Ps. 122:6-7)
B. MORAL protection. (Jer. 1:17-18)
II. Some walls need to be TORN DOWN. (Eph. 2:13-18)
Keys: TRUTH, JUSTICE & LOVE.
A. Walls of HATRED. (Matt. 5:43-48)
B. Walls of EXCLUSION. (Gen. 3:20; 9:18-19; 10:32; Acts 17:26)
C. Walls of ISOLATION. (I Thess. 2:8; II Cor. 6:11-13)
D. The wall of SIN. (Eph. 2:11-13; Gal. 3:26-28; Ps. 66:18-19)
(Jesus' part and our part in that process)
III. No walls are TOO BIG for God. (Jer. 32:17, 26-27: 51:58: Josh. 6; Eph. 2:12-14)
I want to TRUST and FOLLOW Jesus when facing the walls of life.
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on August 22nd, 2021 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, Ohio.
Outline:
I. The foundation makes all the DIFFERENCE.
A. The lesson from the tower.
B. A parable by Jesus. (Luke 6:46-49; James 1:22)
* Many SIMILARITIES; different RESULTS.
II. The Bethlehem church must remain on the proper foundation: JESUS and His WORD. (1 Cor. 3:11; Eph. 2:19-22)
A. Jesus is our HOPE. (Eph. 1 & 2; Acts 4:12; Jn. 14:6)
B. Jesus is a PROVEN foundation. (Isa. 28:16; Rom. 9:33)
C. Jesus is our HEAD. (Col. 1:18; Matt. 28:18)
D. Jesus is our STANDARD.
III. Our PERSONAL lives must remain on the proper foundation: Jesus and His Word.
* Isaiah 33:5-6
A. We live with HOPE.
B. We STAND FIRM in the storms of life. (Prov. 10:25)
C. We REFLECT Jesus.
D. We grow STRONGER. (Luke 6:46-48)
Today I want to RESTORE my life to the proper foundation.
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on August 15th, 2021 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
I. The Dead Sea is UNIQUE ... and in TROUBLE. (One of a kind; salty; evaporating)
* The Dead Sea rarely receives any FRESH water.
II. We need CONSISTENT nourishment. (Psalm 63:1-5)
(PHYSICALLY & SPIRITUALLY)
III. GOD is our nourishment.
A. Through His PROVISION. (James 1:16-17)
B. Through His PRESENCE. (Ps. 63:1-3, 7-8; John 15:4-6; Rev. 22:1-2)
C. Through WORSHIP. (Psalms)
D. Through His WORD. (Ps. 119; I Pet. 1:22-23; 2:3)
E. Through our personal DEVOTIONAL time.
Some aspects:
1. PRAYER.
2. MEDITATION.
3. JOURNALING.
4. FASTING.
Isaiah 55:1-3
Will I begin today to become MORE ALIVE?
Christian Martin's sermon preached on August 8th, 2021 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
Venice -> Water; Israel -> God
I. PROTECTION. (Num. 9:15-23; 10:33-36)
a. Venice had protection in WATER.
b. Israel had protection in GOD.
II. WEALTH/SUSTENANCE. (Num. 11:1-15)
a. VENICE’S WANTS overcame them.
b. God met ISRAEL’S NEEDS.
III. DANGER. (Num. 14:20-38)
a. WATERand SALT are destroying Venice.
b. Israel turned their back on God and HIS PROMISES.
If Israel’s foundation had been solid, they would have trusted in His PROMISES, PROTECTION, and PROVIDENCE. Will you be able to endure the rising tide, the corrosive waters, the raging current, or will you be washed away? How is your foundation?
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on August 1st, 2021 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
I. To climb higher we have to WANT TO. (Ps. 61:1-4; 62:1-2; 63:1-8)
Do you want the result without the EFFORT?
Are you actively WORKING at your relationship with God?
II. To climb higher we have to PREPARE adequately.
A. Physical preparation for a Mt. Everest climb.
B. SPIRITUAL preparation for our climb. (Eph. 6:13-18; Heb. 12:1; Prov. 24:3-5)
III. To climb higher we have to STICK TOGETHER. (Eccl. 4:9-12)
IV. To climb higher we have to TAKE some RISKS.
*God did not save us so we would live SAFE, decent lives. (Ps. 18:31-33. 28-29)
V. To climb higher we have to PERSEVERE when things get TOUGH. (Acts 14:22; II Cor. 4:8-10; Heb. 12:1-3)
Am I wanting God to bless MY PLANS, or am I really allowing Him to LEAD ME?
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on July 25th, 2021 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, Ohio.
Outline:
I. The pharaoh's grandiose pyramids: a FUTILE display.
A. It is futile to ACCUMULATE things. (Eccl. 5:10-15; Prov. 23:4-5; Luke 12:15; Matt. 6:19-21; Mark 8:36)
B. It is futile to have a GLAMOROUS burial.
Transition: Matt. 27:57-66; 28:1-6
II. Jesus' EMPTY tomb: the source of HOPE.
A. He offers us what money can't BUY, and people can't BUILD. (1 Pet. 1:18-19; Heb. 11:9-10; 12:22-24; Rev. 21:22-27)
B. He gives us a reason to have HUMILITY and HOPE. (Eph. 2:8-9; Titus 3:3-7)
C. He is concerned about our SPIRITUAL burial, not the PHYSICAL one. (Rom. 6:3-7; I John 2:17)
Will I bury an OLD life (or habit) and live for what MATTERS?
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on July 18th, 2021 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
https://sermons.church/archived?church&sermonid=18924&cred_referrer_form_id=25
Outline:
I. Strong walls provide PROTECTION and SECURITY.
A. A principle from history. (Psalm 122:6, 7; Deut. 3:5)
B. The Great Wall of China
C. Necessary LIFE walls. (Neh. 4:13, 14)
II. Faulty gates and gatekeepers make walls MEANINGLESS.
A. The Great Wall of China. (Once they enemy got their foot in the gate, it was all over)
B. We must be ALERT to the enemy. (I Pet. 5:8, 9; Eph. 6:10ff; 4:26-27) (Sin the result of: Undetected WEAKNESS, unexpected TEMPTATION, unprotected LIFE).
C. We must SECURE the gates. (I Chron. 9:17-27; Eph. 4:26-27, Luke 11:34-35; Ezra 9:8ff; Isa. 62:6)
Our gates: EYES, EARS, MIND, BODY.
D. We must practice SELF-CONTROL. (Prov. 25:28; Isa. 30:12-14; Titus 2:11-14; Prov. 4:23)
How STRONG are your walls and gates?
How sure is your HOPE? (Rev. 22:12-17)
Kevin Whitsett's sermon preached on July 11th, 2021 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
https://sermons.church/archived?church&sermonid=18700&cred_referrer_form_id=25
Outline:
God desires that Christians have an active, evident and "ridiculous" faith.
Story of Elisha and 3 kings.
Lessons learned:
- Our greatest need becomes a BLESSING when it drives us to DEPEND on God.
- Before we go to God with our needs and requests, we must spend time in WORSHIP. Worship prepares us for what God wants to do in our lives.
- Only God can send the WATER but sometimes He wants us to dig the DITCH.
- When God sees our FAITH, He will show us His FAITHFULNESS.
- Faith believes BIG but is willing to start SMALL.
Obedient, active faith causes God's blessings to flow. Go dig a ditch!
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on July 4th, 2021 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
https://sermons.church/archived?church&sermonid=18300&cred_referrer_form_id=25
Outline:
- The nation that recognizes its BLESSINGS. (Isa. 5:1-7)
- The nation that remembers its HERITAGE. (Isa. 51:1-2)
- The nation that seeks to IMPROVE. ("a more perfect union")
- The nation that lives by God's PRINCIPLES. (Isa. 5:20; Prov. 14:34 I Tim. 2:1-2)
Love and respect GOD.
Love and respect OTHERS.
Summary of the Ten Commandments (Ex. 20; Matt. 22:37-40) 5. The nation that RETURNS to the Lord. (Isa. 5:5; Ezek. 22:30-31)
REPENT. (Lam. 3:40)
PRAY. (II Chron. 7:13-14)
Live a GODLY life.
Build godly HOMES.
Be SALT & LIGHT. (Matt. 5:13-16)
Bring others to CHRIST.
Call others to REPENT.
It's time to STAND strong, LIVE well, restore our HERITAGE, and RETURN to the Lord.
Christian Martin's sermon preached on June 27th, 2021 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
https://sermons.church/archived?church&sermonid=18299&cred_referrer_form_id=25
The families in Genesis have MALFUNCTIONS because others have rewritten the DESIGNS and FUNCTIONS that God made. (Gen. 4:17-26)
- PEOPLE'S Problems -> PEOPLE Problems
a. Jacob/Israel's Problems
i. Genesis 25:23-28; 27:41
ii. Genesis 33:3-4
If our own PROBLEMS are not handled and dealt with, they can become FAMILY PROBLEMS.
iii. Genesis 37:3-4
b. Children's Problems
i. Genesis 37:4-5, 8
ii. Genesis 37:18-36
c. Joseph's Resolution
i. Genesis 50:15-21
What are the DECISIONS you are making and VALUES you are placing in front for your family?
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on June 20th, 2021 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
https://sermons.church/archived?church=bethlehem&sermonid=17807
Outline:
I. Real men live for GOD.
A. RECOGNIZE who He is. (Psalm 145:1, 5:2)
B. Recognize our DEPENDENCE upon Him.
C. RESPECT His Word.
II. Real men live with COURAGE. (1 Cor. 16:13; Deut. 31:6-8; Josh. 1:6-9; Acts 4 & 5)
-
Be STRONG & COURAGEOUS.
-
We must STAND up for what is RIGHT, no matter what the COST.
III. Real men live for OTHERS. (1 Cor. 16:14)
A. Faithful SERVICE. (Phil. 2:3; Matt. 20:26-28)
B. Serving FAMILY. (Eph. 5:25)
C. Future GENERATIONS.
IV. Real men live with INTEGRITY. (Prov. 20:7)
A. RIGHTEOUSNESS. (Prov. 14:34)
B. CONSISTENCY. (Matt. 22:16)
C. Results:
-
Our FAMILY is blessed.
-
SOCIETY is blessed.
-
WE are blessed.
What are you LIVING FOR?
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on June 13th, 2021 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
https://sermons.church/archived?church&sermonid=17525&cred_referrer_form_id=25
Outline:
I. Choose UNITY instead of DIVISION. (Genesis 1; Ps. 133:1; John 17:20-23; Rom. 12:16; I Cor. 1:10; Eph. 2:14-19; 4:1-3)
Satan is a DIVIDER. (Gen. 3)
His strategy: DIVIDE and CONQUER.
3 God-ordained institutions: 1. FAMILY 2. STATE 3. CHURCH
II. Choose TRUTH instead of FALSEHOOD. (John 8:32; Rom. 16:17-18; Isa. 5:20)
III. Fight the true ENEMY instead of manufactured ENEMIES. (Gen. 13:5-9; Eph. 6:12)
*God created only ONE race. (Gen. 1:27; 3:20; 8:18; 9:18-19; 10:32; Acts 17:26)
* Satan is the FATHER of racism.
IV. Choose GRACE instead of CANCEL CULTURE. (Rom. 3:23; 6:23; I Cor. 1:2-4; Eph. 2:3-5, 13-18; 4:2, 15, 31-32)
Peacemakers (Rom. 12:17-18, Gal. 3:26-28)
Peace with GOD -> Peace with OURSELF -> Peace with OTHERS.
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on June 6th, 2021 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
I. God called His people all through SCRIPTURE to speak truth to their culture. (Matt. 5:13-16)
A. Old Testament (Prophets; Prov. 14:34)
B. New Testament
1. John the Baptizer (Lk. 3; Mark 6:17-18; Matt. 11:11)
2. Jesus
3. Early Christian leaders (Acts 14-19)
II. God raised up PREACHERS in early AMERICA to speak truth to their culture.
- Black Robe Regiment; Declaration of Independence; The Revolution
III. God still calls HIS PEOPLE to speak truth to their culture. (Matt. 5:13-16; II Cor. 5:20)
A. Sometimes God's people have FAILED to do that.
- Germany (1930's); America (1960's, 1970's; Now)
B. We must be God's VOICE of truth.
C. Being God's voice of truth in culture is PROCLAIMING Christ.
We must boldly LIVE and SPEAK God's truth out of love for God and others.
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on May 30th, 2021 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
-
We are in a WAR. (Gen. 3:15; Eph. 6:12)
-
Jesus LOVES His church.
I. Jesus' church offers LIGHT. (John 1:4; 8:12; 9:5; Mt. 5:14-16)
*The devil hates the EXPOSING power of light. (John 3:19-21; Eph. 5:8-14)
II. Jesus' church offers TRUTH. (John 8:32; Matt. 7:15)
*The devil hates the ABSOLUTENESS of truth. (Gen. 3; Isa. 5:20)
III. Jesus' church offers a SUPPORT NETWORK of love. ("one another")
*The devil hates the MUTUAL SUPPORT of the church.
IV. Jesus' church offers the SAVIOR. (John 14:6; 15:18-21; Luke 13:29; 14:23; 19:9-10)
*The devil hates SALVATION and the Savior. (John 10:10-11; Acts 5:27-32)
I will experience and celebrate the BLESSINGS of Jesus' church and guard against the devil's ATTACKS.
Christian Martin's sermon preached on May 23rd at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
If JESUS wrote a LETTER to the BETHLEHEM CHURCH OF CHRIST, what would it say?
Context: Revelation 1:9-20
I. The DANGER of COMPLACENCY (Rev. 3:14-16)
a. 2 Peter 2:20-22
b. Jeremiah 24:1-10
II. The DANGER of SELF-SUFFICIENCY (Rev. 3:17-19)
a. Luke 15:11-32
III. The GIFT of MERCY (20-22)
Are you living on your own SUFFICIENCY or on God's MERCY?
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on May 16th, 2021 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
I. God uses places as His STAGE.
A. Involvement with HUMANITY. (Gen. 28, 32; Ex. 3; Gen. 22 & II Chron. 3)
B. Incarnation of JESUS. (John 1:14)
C. Involvement in OUR LIVES.
II. God TRANSCENDS places.
He is not confined to a LOCATION. (Acts 17:22-25; Jer. 7:1-14)
III. God's PURPOSE transcends places. (John 4:16-24)
A. His passion is RESCUING people. (Titus 3:3-7; Eph. 2:1-5)
B. His goal is BUILDING lives.
1. Through WORSHIP.
2. Through DISCIPLESHIP. (Col. 1:28-29)
3. Through FELLOWSHIP. (Acts 2:42ff; Heb. 10:24-25)
4. Through SERVICE. (Eph. 2:19-22; 4:15-16)
C. His invitation is to a NEW place. (John 14:1-3; REv. 21:1-5)
I will make a NEW BEGINNING in this place, as I continue my journey to the place that REALLY MATTERS.
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on May 9th, 2021 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
OUTLINE:
I. A woman of INFLUENCE. (16:14)
A. Her business.
B. A mother's influence.
II. A woman of PRAYER. (16:13, 14)
Do you put FIRST things FIRST? (Matt. 6:33)
III. A woman with an OPEN HEART. (16:14, 15)
A. She went where she was LIKELY to receive God's MESSAGE.
B. She ACCEPTED the message. (14)
C. She OBEYED the message. (15)
Common pattern in responding to the Gospel: Acts 2:36ff; 8:12, 13; 8:35-38; 9:18; 16:33; 18:8
IV. A woman with an OPEN HOME. (16:15, 40)
Three motives:
1. HOSPITALITY.
2. LEARNING.
3. Christian INTERACTION.
Will God find you FAITHFUL?
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on May 2nd, 2021 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
I. God on the THRONE: a picture of HOLINESS. (Isa. 6:3; Ex. 15:11; I Sam. 2:2; Hab. 1:13)
Holy = SET APART.
His holiness is our MOTIVATION to be holy. (I Pet. 1:14-16)
II. Sin in the MIRROR: a picture of BROKENNESS. (II Sam. 11; 12; 51:1-4, 16, 17)
The key: Seeing and acknowledging our sins SPECIFICALLY.
-- why the BIBLE is so important.
-- why CONFESSION is so important. (Prov. 28:13; Ps. 32:1-5; I Jn. 1:8, 9)
III. Self in the DIRT: a picture of REPENTANCE.
-
A common Bible scene: SACKCLOTH and ashes. (Neh. 9:1; Es. 4:1-3; Isa. 22:12)
-
Evidence of repentance: Long-term CHANGE. (II Tim. 2:19)
IV. Christ on the CROSS: a picture of GRACE. (Rom. 5:8; Tit. 2:11-14)
V. Spirit in CONTROL: a picture of POWER. (Rom. 6-8; Acts 2:37, 38; II Pet. 3:9)
I REPENT, and desire to live in a HIGHER PLACE by the power of God's Spirit.
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on April 25th, 2021 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
Jesus is Passing By (Luke 18:35-43; Mark 19:46-52)
I. We learn something about the INFLUENCE we can have.
A. POSITIVE influence. (18:36-37)
2 things have to be true:
-
We have to be WITH people.
-
We have to be living RIGHT. (I Pet. 2:11, 12)
B. NEGATIVE influence. (18:38, 39)
II. We learn something about JESUS. (18:40, 41; Mark 10:49, 50)
A. He took TIME for PEOPLE.
B. He didn't play FAVORITES. (Luke 17-19; John 3:16)
III. We learn something about the BLIND man.
A. He demonstrated CURIOSITY. (36)
B. He demonstrated FAITH. (38, 39; Mark 10:49, 50; James 2)
C. He demonstrated PERSISTENCE. (39)
D. He was ready to ______. (43; Lk. 9:23)
IV. We learn something about OPPORTUNITIES. (37)
A. Many opportunities only COME ONCE. (James 4:13-17)
B. We have many opportunities at BETHLEHEM.
C. EACH of us has an opportunity. (Eph. 5:15-17; Luke 19:5)
II Corinthians 6:2
Upon the face of the CLOCK of life is written one word: NOW!
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on April 18th, 2021 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
OUTLINE:
I. Jesus is ALPHA: He is Lord of the PAST
A. He is ETERNAL. (John 1:1-3; Colossians 1:15-17)
B. He's BEEN there. (Hebrews 13:8)
II. Jesus is OMEGA: He is Lord of the FUTURE.
A. We live in a CHANGING world.
B. Jesus IN CONTROL. (Col. 1:16-17)
C. Jesus will COMPLETE things properly. (Phil. 1:4-6; Deut. 34:5-8; Josh. 1:1-6)
D. Jesus offers HOPE. (Rom. 5:1-2, 5, 8)
III. Jesus is ALPHA and OMEGA: He is Lord of the PRESENT.
A. He is PRESENT. (Psalm 31:14-16)
B. He gives PURPOSE. (Rev. 21:6)
C. He gives POWER. (Eph. 3:20, 21)
He is ABLE! (Heb. 7:25; Jude 24; 1 Cor. 10:13; II Cor. 9:8)
Jesus is ____________
A. I must decide WHO Jesus IS. (Matt. 16:15, 16; John 14:6)
B. I must decide what I will DO. (John 18-19)
What will I DO?
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on April 11th, 2021 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
I. What Jesus DEMONSTRATES.
A. Unblemished CHARACTER. (I Pet. 1:18-19; Her. 4:14, 15)
B. Undying LOVE.
C. Unbelievable SACRIFICE. (John 15:13; Rom. 5:6-8)
II. What Jesus CLAIMED to be.
A. Jesus made bold claims that we can't AVOID. (John 6:38; 8:58; 14:6; 14:9; 11:25; 8:24; 5:22; 10:30)
- Jesus' claims would be absolutely RIDICULOUS if they weren't true!
B. Jesus must be one of the following:
- A LIAR. 2. A LUNATIC. 3. The LORD.
III. What Jesus' FRIENDS said about Him. (John 1:29; Matt. 16:16; Acts 2:36; John 20:28; Col. 2:9; 1 Cor. 15:6; I John 5:20)
IV. What Jesus' ENEMIES said about Him. (Matt. 27:37; Matt. 27:19; Matt. 27:3ff; Matt. 27:41-44; Matt. 27:54)
V. What early Christian WRITERS said about Him.
VI. What will we DO about Him?
A. Decide WHO He is. (Matt. 22:41-42; 16:15)
B. Decide WHAT we will DO. (John 14:15; Mark 8:34ff; I John 5:11, 12)
What do you BELIEVE about Jesus and what will you DO about Him?
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on April 4th, 2020 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
I. The road to Jerusalem: The road of PURPOSE. (Matt. 20:17-19; Eph. 1:4-5; Gen. 3:15; Acts 2:23)
II. The road into Jerusalem: the road of PRAISE. (Matt. 21:1-11)
III. The road across Jerusalem: The road of SUFFERING. (John 18; Matt. 27)
[Upper room -> Gethsemane -> Trials -> Cross]
IV. The road from Jerusalem (to Emmaus) and Back
A. A road of DEVASTATION (Luke 24:13-24)
B. A road of AWAKENING and HOPE. (Luke 24:25-35)
V. The road from Jerusalem to the world: The road of PURPOSE. (Luke 24:45-48)
A. To all PEOPLE groups.
B. To all PEOPLE.
I will faithfully walk with Jesus ON PURPOSE, wherever His roads LEAD me.
Steve Fulton's (Grundy Mountain Mission School) message preached on March 28th, 2021 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
I. The PURPOSE of the ministry of hope. (I Pet. 3:15)
II. The PLAN for the ministry of hope. (II Cor. 5:17)
III. The POWER behind the ministry of hope. (Eph. 3:20)
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on March 21st, 2021 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
- The goal: TRUST, REMEMBER, OBEY. (78:7)
I. Let's build PURPOSEFULLY. (78:1-4)
II. Let's build CONSISTENTLY. (78:5-6)
A. Consistent GUIDANCE.
B. Consistent PRAYER.
III. Let's build WISELY. (78:1-3)
A. Good TEACHING. (78:4-5)
1. Teach them what God has DONE.
2. Teach them what God has SAID.
B. Healthy STRUCTURE. (78:5)
C. Clear WARNINGS. (78:8-11; 1 Cor. 10:11; 78:32)
IV. Let's build with OTHERS. (78:4 -- "WE")
A. Teamwork in our FAMILY.
B. Teamwork in GOD'S family.
C. Teamwork through HEALTHY relationships.
V. Let's build by PERSONAL EXAMPLE. (78:56-57)
What course is your family on?
I will follow God's LEAD, so I can lead OTHERS to Him, beginning with those CLOSEST to me.
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on March 14th, 2021 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
I. A secure haven: God is the SAFE place. (1-4)
A. A PLACE greatly desired. (2-3; Ps. 42:1-2)
B. A PEACE greatly desired. (3-4)
II. A great journey: God is WORTH the journey. (5-7)
A. An EFFORT to be with God.
B. STRENGTH through the valleys. (II Cor. 4:16-18; Heb. 12:22-24)
III. A wonderful privilege: God can be APPROACHED anywhere. (8-10)
A. The privilege to PRAY. (8-9)
B. The privilege to SERVE. (10)
IV. A special blessing: God SHINES on His people. (11-12)
A. A blessing for those who TRUST God. (12)
B. A blessing for those who WALK with God. (11)
Where are you headed in life?
Do you ENJOY being with God?
Christian Martin's sermon preached on March 7th, 2021 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
Psalm 147:1
· Praise the Lord! For He is PLEASANT and DESERVING of praise.
Psalm 147:2-3
· Isaiah 53:5; Romans 5:8
· Praise the Lord! He WELCOMES in the OUTSIDERand He BANDAGES the wounds of the BROKEN.
Psalm 147:4-5
· Job 38:31-38
Psalm 147:7-9
· Praise the Lord! For He is POWERFUL and MAGNIFICENT, and He CARES for ME.
Psalm 147:6, 10-11
· Praise the Lord! For He is HOLY and RIGHTEOUS.
GOD deserves PRAISE ALL of my DAYS.
I think CHRISTIANITY would be different in a BROKEN world, if we chose to live “PRAISE the LORD.”
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on February 28th, 2021 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
I. God's GREATNESS and our SMALLNESS. (8:1, 9; 3-4; Psalm 19; Rom. 1:20)
II. God's WORTHINESS and our PRAISE. (8:2; Rev. 4:11; Matt. 21:15-16; 18:3)
III. God's CREATION plan and our UNIQUE role.
A. We are DESIGNED by God. (Gen. 2; Psalm 139:13-14; Isa. 43:7)
B. We are COMMISSIONED by God. (8:5-8; Gen. 1:26-28; Heb. 2:5-9)
C. We are LOVED by God. (8:4; I John 3:1)
D. We are ANSWERABLE to God. (8:1, 9; Rom. 14:11-12)
I will seek to FAITHFULLY fulfill the ROLE God planned for me.
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on February 21st, 2021 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
I. The tragic DECLINE of a culture. (Hosea 4:1-3; Mic. 7:2)
A. Lack of GODLINESS. (1; 11:3; Rom. 3:10-18)
B. Rampant DECEPTION. (2-3; 5:9; Isa. 59:12-15)
C. Arrogant DEFIANCE. (3-4; Jdg. 21:25)
D. Heartless OPPRESSION. (5)
E. Glorification of EVIL. (8; Isa. 5:20)
II. The wise RESPONSE of God's people.
A. PRAY. (1)
B. Seek TRUTH. (6)
1. GOD'S truth.
2. TRUTHFULNESS. (Mal. 2:4-6)
C. HONOR goodness. (8; Prov. 14:34)
D. Be FAITHFUL. (1; Luke 18:8)
E. Be HOPEFUL. (5-7; 1 K. 19:14, 18; Ps. 11:3-4)
What is God CALLING you to DO?
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on February 14th, 2021 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
I. We must recognize our SIN. (1-3)
A. Take PERSONAL responsibility for it. (1-3)
Key word: "MY"
B. CONFESS it. (Prov. 28:13; Psalm 32:1-5)
II. We must recognize that our sin is AGAINST God. (4-6; II Sam. 12:13)
A. See sin as GOD sees it. (II Sam. 12:9)
B. See the JUSTICE in God's punishment. (Gen. 2:17; Rom. 6:23)
*We do not want God to treat us FAIR! (Psalm 103:10)
III. We must recognize God's GRACE. (1-2, 7, 9-10, 14)
A. The GREATNESS of grace.
B. The CLEANSING of grace. (Titus 3:3-7)
C. The RESPONSE to grace. (15-17)
-
A REPENTANT heart. (17)
-
A praising MOUTH. (15)
IV. We must recognize the RESULT of God's cleansing. (8, 10, 13, 15, 18)
A. NEWNESS. (10; Acts 2:38)
B. JOY. (8; 12)
C. USEFULNESS. (13, 19)
*God specializes in NEW BEGINNINGS.
Tom Claibourne's message preached online for Bethlehem Church of Christ's Facebook.
Outline:
I. The message of God's CREATION. (19:1-6)
A. A CLEAR message. (1)
B. A CONTINUOUS message. (2)
C. A WORLDWIDE message. (3, 4; Romans 1:20; 10:17, 18; Psalm 14:1)
D. An INCOMPLETE message.
II. The message of God's BOOK. (19:7-14)
A. Its PERFECTION. (7; James 1:25)
B. Its VALUE.
-
It REVIVES the soul. (7a)
-
It gives WISDOM. (7b; Acts 4:13; II Tim. 3:15)
-
It gives JOY. (8a)
-
It gives LIGHT. (8b; 119:105)
-
It is a BETTER reward/standard. (10, 11; Job 23:12)
C. Its GOAL.
-
Our CLEAR VISION of self. (9, 12, 13; James 1:22-25; II Tim. 3:14-17)
-
Our GOOD LIFE before God. (13-14)
How will you RESPOND to God's message?
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on January 31st, 2021 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
I. Play with sin OR focus on GOD. (1:1-2)
A. We can DIGRESS into sin (1; Prov. 1:10ff; I Cor. 15:33-34; James 1:13-15)
WALK -> STAND -> SIT
B. We can DELIGHT in God (2)
-
His WORD (119:9-16, 24, 47, 70, 92)
-
His WAY
II. Grow near the STREAMS OR get BLOWN away (1:3-4)
A. A healthy tree (3)
-
Near the SOURCE of life. (Jer. 17:7-8; Ps. 52:8)
-
Bears FRUIT (John 4:10, 14; 7:37-39; Gal. 5:22-23)
B. Chaff (4; Jer. 17:5-6)
No ROOTS -> No LIFE -> No HOPE
III. Fall at the JUDGMENT OR stand FORGIVEN. (1:5-6)
A. We can be JUDGED by our sin. (Rom. 3:23; 6:23; 3:19-20)
B. We can be DECLARED righteous. (Rom. 3:20ff; 4:3ff; I Cor. 6:9-11)
2 groups of people at the end of time:
-
Sinners FORGIVEN by the blood of Jesus.
-
Sinners who are NOT FORGIVEN.
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on January 14th, 2021 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
I. God is an all-KNOWING God. (1-12)
A. He knows ALL ABOUT me. (1-4)
B. He is PRESENT. (5-12)
1. That is a COMFORT. (5-10; Isaiah 52:12)
2. That is a WARNING. (11-12; Rev. 2 & 3)
II. God is a CREATING God. (13-18)
A. He MADE me. (13-14)
B. He KNOWS me. (15-18)
1. My PAST. (15)
2. My FUTURE. (16; Jer. 1:5; Isaiah 49:1)
III. God is a HOLY God. (19-24)
A. He hates EVIL. (19-22; Psalm 97:10)
B. He wants to PURIFY us. (23-24; Heb. 4:12, 13)
God wants to help us SEARCH ourselves so we can become what He DESIRES!
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on January 17th, 2021 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, Ohio.
Outline:
I. The Psalms help us know GOD.
A. WHO He is. (18:1-2; 47:7-9)
B. WHAT He does. (68:32-35 + 115:3-8; 77; 98; 86)
II. The Psalms help us appreciate the BIBLE.
A. The Bible's ORIGIN. (119)
B. The The Bible's VALUE. (19:7-11)
C. The Bible's CONSISTENCY. (78:12ff; 105; 22)
III. The Psalms help us understand OURSELVES.
A. As God's CREATION. (33:6-9; 8; 139)
B. As finite CREATURES. (90)
C. As people in a BROKEN world. (119)
IV. The Psalms help us understand our RELATIONSHIP with God.
A. Our need for TIME with Him. (42:1-2; 84:10; 63:1ff)
B. Our need to live GOD'S way. (119:9-11; 1)
C. Our need for FORGIVENESS. (51; 32)
Our only hope: to LISTEN to God and take REFUGE in Him. (Psalm 34:22)
Tom Claibourne’s sermon preached on January 10th, 2021 at Bethlehem Church of Christ.
Outline:
God Laughs and Rules – Psalm 2
I. Rebels _ (2:1-3)
Who are they? (Acts 4:23-28; John 5:23; Rom. 1:18-31; Gen. 3:5; Jdg. 21:25)
II. God _. (2:4-6; Psalm 59:8)
a. He laughs at _.
b. He _ and _ them. (Psalm 37:12-13; Acts 2:36; Heb. 12:22-23; Eph. 1:22-23; Rev. 1:5; I Cor. 15:25)
III. Jesus _. (2:7-9)
a. The king’s _. (7-8; Acts 13:33; Heb. 5:5; Matt. 28:18; Rev. 1:5-6)
b. The king’s _. (9; Rev. 12:5)
IV. God _ and us _.
God’s invitation:
-
Be _. (10)
-
Be _. (11-12a)
-
Be _. (12b)
I will choose surrender and _ instead of defiance and _. (Phil. 2:9-11)
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on January 3rd, 2021 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
I. Avoid the ENEMY. (I Peter 5:8-9; I Timothy 6:11-12; Ephesians 6:10-12)
II. Find SHELTER. (Psalm 61:1-4; Hebrews 10:25)
- In God's PRESENCE and in His CHURCH.
III. Find SUSTENANCE. (I Peter 1:22-2:3; Psalm 119:105)
IV. Establish COMMUNICATION with friendly forces to effect recovery. (Psalm 3)
- PRAYER is the key.
V. Maintain a will to SURVIVE. (Ephesians 6:13; Acts 20:22-24; I Peter 5:10-11; Revelation 2:10)
God offers strength, RECOVERY, and life, no matter what CHALLENGES we face.
Christian Martin's sermon preached on December 27th, 2020 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
Jesus' secret to relevance:
He spoke about THINGS that were HUMAN PROBLEMS.
Luke 14:1-11
The man knew where to go:
TO JESUS.
Instead of TAKING the SEAT that was RIGHTFULLY His, He GIVES it up.
Philippians 2:5-11
"Have this MINDSET among YOURSELVES."
Instead of "ALL ABOUT ME;" I choose HUMILITY.
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on December 20th, 2020 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
Matthew 2:1-12
I. BUSYNESS? (21; Luke 2:16-19)
Mary's secret: being STILL enough to PONDER. (Lk. 2:19)
II. A PLACE? (2:2)
Let's focus on the HOME that really matters, and what Jesus did to TAKE us there.
III. PEOPLE?
Christmas is not necessarily about certain people, but about ONE SPECIAL PERSON: Jesus!
IV. The Bible! (Matt. 2:3-6)
A. The Bible points us in the RIGHT DIRECTION. (Ps. 119:105; Rom. 10:17)
B. the The Bible and Christmas GO TOGETHER.
V. The CHRIST!! (Matt. 2:7-12)
Jesus is THE ONE! (Matt. 2:2; 1:21-23; John 1:45; 6:46; Acts 10:42; Mk. 15:12-13; Rev. 11:17)
Jesus' invitation to us: John 3:16; Matt. 10:32-33; Lk. 13:3; Mk. 16:16
The greatest way to find Christmas joy is by FOLLOWING JESUS.
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on December 13th, 2020 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
Jesus was born during the time of KING HEROD. (Matt. 2:1)
Christmas frustrations:
I. INTERRUPTION.
A. The innkeeper (Luke 2:6, 7)
B. The shepherds (Luke 2:8-20; Eph. 5:15-16)
-- At every turn and interruption in life, there is a potential MEETING PLACE with God.
II. INCONVENIENCE. (Matt. 2:1-2)
The Magi (wise men)
Remember: God was LEADING them! (Matt. 2:9-12)
III. Irritations
A. CHRISTMAS irritations.
B. HEROD'S irritations. (Matt. 2:3-8; 16-18)
C. Does JESUS ever irritate you? (Luke 9:23)
D. Does the Bible ever irritate you? (II Tim. 3:16, 17)
Secret: We must give up our SELFISH will, like Jesus did. (II Cor. 8:9; 5:14-15)
IV. Inadequacy
A. Mary & Joseph. (Luke 1:26-38; Matt. 1:18-25)
B. What about you? The answer, as always: GOD WITH US.
Is God IN YOU?
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on December 6th, 2020 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, Ohio.
Outline:
I. God prepared CAREFULLY to send the Savior Jesus. (Eph. 1:3-4)
A. Through PROPHECIES. (Gen. 3:15; 12:3; 49:10; Isa. 9:6-7; Ps. 22; Isa. 53; 7:14; Micah 5:2; Daniel 9)
B. Through PROVIDENCE. (Lk. 2:6-7; Gal. 4:4-5)
God prepared the world SPIRITUALLY, SOCIALLY, PHYSICALLY, INTELLECTUALLY, EMOTIONALLY.
C. A place: BETHLEHEM. (Micah 5:2; Boaz & Ruth, David; Lk. 2:1-7)
II. God overcame every OBSTACLE to bring Jesus to our world.
*Satan is at war with God. (Rev. 12:7-9; Eph. 6:11-12)
A. Satan tried to keep THE SAVIOR from coming.
B. Satan tried to DESTROY Him after His birth. (Rev. 12:1-5; Matt. 2)
III. God will fulfill His PURPOSE and send Jesus back again.
*Satan’s war continues: The life of Jesus; The early church; Church history; The present & future.
- Words of promise and hope: Rev. 12:10-11; I John 2:1-2; Rom. 8:31; Lk. 22:53; Rom. 16:20; Acts 1:11
Are you PREPARED for Jesus to come?
Christian Martin's sermon preached on November 29th, 2020 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, Ohio.
Outline:
10 Jesus stood up and said to her, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?” 11 She said, “No one, Lord.” And Jesus said, “Neither do I condemn you; go, and from now on sin no more.” John 8:10-11 ESV
A Line in the Sand
· An IMBALANCE of good or bad leads to an IMBALANCE in the relationship.
· WRONGED by ASSOCIATION.
John 8:1-6
o Lev. 20:10
o Deuteronomy 22:22
o Deuteronomy 17:7
· Jesus was not INTERESTED in CONDEMNING a woman CAUGHT in SIN.
John 8:7-11
· “Neither do I condemn you; go, and from now on SIN NO MORE.”
o Luke 6:27-36
· He was showing LOVE, ACCEPTANCE, and HOPE to the people who would otherwise be HOPELESS and REJECTED.
o John 3:16-17
o John 12:44-50
· The only person who has the RIGHT to condemn did not come to the world to CONDEMN it, but to SAVE it and LOVE those who should have been CONDEMNED
· Jesus did not come to earth to CLEANSE it of SINNERS. He came to CLEANSE the SINNERS of earth.
Sometimes, LOVE is hard to FIND. But it always starts with BEING KIND.
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on November 22nd, 2020 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
I. Thankfulness overflows when the CUP is full.
A. A principle of PHYSICS.
B. A principle of the HEART. (Lk. 6:43-45; Mk. 7:20-23)
C. The principle of a CHANGED life. (II Cor. 4:13-15; Ps. 30:11, 12)
II. Overflowing thankfulness CLEANSES.
A. It flushes out negative TALK. (Ja. 3:9-12; I Cor. 10:6-10)
B. It flushes out negative THOUGHTS. (Phil. 4:6-8)
3 things we allow to block our gratitude:
1. COMMONNESS
2. COMPARING
3. CIRCUMSTANCES (1 Th. 5:16-18; Phil. 4:4; 1:12-14; 4:11-13)
III. Overflowing thankfulness BLESSES OTHERS.
A. It HONORS God. (Ps. 100:3-5; 106:1.; 107:1; 118:1, 28-29)
B. It REFRESHES others. (II Cor. 9:10-15)
C. It ENCOURAGES others.
What's in your HEART?
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on November 15th, 2020 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
I. People HURT. (Gen 3; Rom 8:18ff; 1 Thes 5:14-15)
. . . because we live in a world CURSED by SIN.
II. People DOUBT themselves. (Matt 7:12)
III. People do DUMB things. (Ex 32:21-14; II Chron 18:28-32)
IV. People need ENCOURAGEMENT. (I Thes 5:11; Heb 3:13)
V. People tend to FOLLOW the CROWD. (Matt 21:8-11; Mark 15:6ff; Acts 19:28-32; 21:27ff)
VI. People have POTENTIAL. (Rom 12; Rom 5:8; II Cor 5:17)
VII. People YEARN for God. (Acts 17:23-25; Eccl 3:11)
VIII. People plan to CHANGE their life SOMEDAY. (Ja 4:13-17; II Cor 6:1-2)
Jesus' surprising question to a handicapped man (John 5:5-6)
Do I really WANT to let Jesus fulfill His PLAN for my life?
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on November 8th, 2020 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
I. Persecution is REAL.
A. We have a real ENEMY. (I Pet. 5:8)
B. The enemy attacks GOD'S PEOPLE.
-
Old Testament (Heb. 11:35ff)
-
Early church (John 15:18-16:4; Acts 4:1-3; 5:17-18, 27-28; 7:57-58; 12:1-2)
-
Church history
-
Today
II. Persecution is an OPPORTUNITY.
A. To STAND with Jesus. (Matt. 5:10-12; Acts 5:41-42; I Pet. 4:12-16)
B. To stand with Jesus' DISCIPLES. (Heb. 10:32-34; 13:3)
C. To stand FAITHFULLY for Jesus.
D. To INSPIRE others. (Acts 4:12-13, 18-20; 5:27-29; Phil. 1:14)
E. To PRAY more fervently. (Acts 4:23-24)
III. Persecution is TEMPORARY. (Matt. 10:28; Heb. 10:35-36)
A. Satan will LOSE. (Acts 4:1-4; 8:1-4; 28:30-31; II Tim. 2:8-9; Phil. 1:12-13; Rom. 16:20; Rev. 20:10)
B. Salvation is ETERNAL. (Rev. 22:3-5; 17:14)
Jesus will OVERCOME, and so will His FOLLOWERS.
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on November 1st, 2020 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
I. Satan's conspiracy theories about what follows death.
-
Lights out
-
Time out
-
Out-on, out-on, out-on . . .
-
Happy, Happy, Happy
II. There are TWO possible eternal destinies following death. (Matt. 7:13-14; 25:31-34, 41; Mk. 16:15-16; Lk. 16:19-31)
- We must DECIDE.
III. There is a destiny called HELL: *We must AVOID it.
A. Hell is FACTUAL. (Matt. 10:28)
B, Hell is FEARFUL. (Matt. 13:41, 42, 49-50; 22:13; 25:30; 25:41; Mark 9:47-48; II Thess. 1:9)
C. Hell is FOREVER. (Matt 25:46)
D. Hell is for . . . (Matt. 25:41)
IV. There is a destiny called HEAVEN: *We must LIVE for it.
A. A PLACE. (Jn. 14:2-4)
B. A PREPARED place. (Jn. 14; Matt. 25:34)
C. A KINGDOM place. (Matt 25:34; 13:43)
D. A place of PURITY. (Matt. 6:20; Rev. 22:12-16)
E. A place of FELLOWSHIP. (Matt. 8:11)
F. A place of LIFE. (Matt. 7:14; John 5:28, 29)
G. A place of GOD. (John 14:2)
What are you LIVING for? Were are you HEADED?
Christian Martin's sermon preached on October 25th, 2020 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
I. Fight for your FAMILY. (II Timothy 1:3-12; Nehemiah 4:1-23)
II. Fight for your FAITH. (II Timothy 2:1-14; James 1:19-27)
A. Good SOLDIER. (vv. 3-4)
B. Honest ATHLETE. (v. 5)
C. Hardworking FARMER. (v. 6)
III. Fight for the FUTURE. (II Timothy 3-4:8)
When you READ SCRIPTURE and uphold BIBLICAL AUTHORITY, you fight for the faith of your family, you fight for your OWN FAITH and you fight for FUTURE CHRISTIANS.
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on October 18th, 2020 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
I. God gave fundamental statements about humanity and sexuality.
A. Clear declarations (Genesis 1:26-28; 2:7; 2:24-25; Matthew 19:4-6)
-
Humans are God's CREATION. (Psalm 139:13-14)
-
Humans are created in the IMAGE of God.
-
Humans are valued EQUALLY by God.
-
Humans are created MALE and FEMALE.
-
Humans are created to RULE OVER the rest of creation.
B. Clear contrast
*If you remove God from the process, EVERYTHING changes.
II. Humanity descended into sin and brokenness.
A. Humanity has a choice: GOD'S way or OURS. (Genesis 2:16-17)
B. Humanity has a far-reaching choice: God's BLESSINGS or our BROKENNESS. (Genesis; Romans 1:18-32)
III. God still has a plan for healing and blessing.
A. REPENT. (Acts 2:38; 3:19; John 8:1-11)
B. RETURN.
C. REDEMPTION -- through Jesus Christ. (II Corinthians 5:17)
D. RESTORATION -- through God's Holy Spirit. (Ephesians 4:22-24; Colossians 3:10)
I choose God's way so He can RENEW His IMAGE in me.
Christian Martin's sermon preached on October 11th, 2020 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
I. God worked through CREATION.
A. "Big Bang" (Gen. 1:14-19; Isa. 40:25-26)
B. Creation of MAN (Gen. 1:26-31; 2:4-9)
- Forming him (HANDS ON!)
C. Creation of WOMAN (Gen. 2:18-25)
- Forming her (HANDS ON!)
II. God worked through JESUS.
- From the FALL... (Gen. 3:14-15)
- Jesus in the BEGINNING (John 1:1-18)
- His MINISTRY (John 20:31-31; 21:25)
- His DEATH (Isa. 53:1-6; Gal. 4:4-7; Phil. 2:5-11)
III. God works through PRAYER.
- Early Church (Acts 2:42-44; 4:29-31)
- For us (Ja. 5:13-20; I Pet. 3:8-12)
IV. God will work through HIS PLAN.
- Future HOPE (Rev. 21:1-8)
Since CREATION, God hasn't stopped WORKING and His FINGERPRINTS are everywhere!
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on September 27th, 2020 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
I. If God doesn't exist ...
- There is no ultimate PURPOSE or MEANING in life. (Ecclesiastes)
- There is no basis for MORALITY. (Judges 21:25; Romans 1:18ff)
- There is no HOPE beyond this life. (Ecclesiastes 3:18-21; 9:2-3; Ephesians 2:12)
II. Since God does exist ...
- We can LIVE with purpose and meaning (Genesis 1; Job 38-42; Acts 17:24-28)
- We have a STANDARD for living well. (Exodus 20; Romans 2:14-15; II Timothy 3:16-17)
- We can live with HOPE. (Ephesians 2:12-13; I Timothy 1:15-17)
- We have to decide what we personally will do about GOD and His SON. (Ecclesiastes 12:1, 13; Romans 1:16; Psalm 34:8-9)
I will choose God, His TRUTH, and His SON.
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on September 27th, 2020 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
I. Be aware of the DANGERS (False teachers).
A. IMMORALITY. (4, 8, 10; Rom. 1:21-26; 6:1ff)
B. DENIAL of Jesus. (4)
C. Not taking the DEVIL seriously. (8-9; II Pet. 2:10-12)
D. IMPOSTERS who are ungodly. (12-16)
II. Be ASSURED of God's Judgment.
A. Unfaithful ISRAELITES. (5; I Cor. 10:5-11)
B. Evil ANGELS. (6; II Pet. 2:4)
C. Evil CITIES. (7; II Pet. 2:6-10)
D. Evil PEOPLE. (11)
- Cain, Balaam, Korah
III. Be EQUIPPED to persevere.
A. Stand for GOD'S TRUTH. (3; Gal. 1:6-9)
B. HEED God's warnings. (17-19)
C. Strengthen our FAITH. (20)
D. PRAY in the spirit. (20: Rom. 8:26-27)
E. REMAIN in God's love. (21)
F. RESCUE others for God. (22; Gal. 6:1; Amos 4:11)
G. ENTRUST ourself to the Mighty Savior. (24-25)
I plan to joyfully stand before God WITHOUT FAULT.
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on September 20th, 2020 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
The responsibility of a watchman (33:1-9)
A. Keep their EYES OPEN. (33:3, 6; 1 Chron. 12:32)
B. Take the THREATS seriously. (33:3, 6; Ja. 1:14-15)
- Culturally
- Nationally
- Spiritually
C. Give a CLEAR WARNING. (33:6-9)
D. Warn people NO MATTER WHAT.
The responsibility of the hearers. (33:10-20)
A. Keep our EARS OPEN.
B. Take the WARNINGS seriously. (33:4-5)
C. Take appropriate ACTION. (Prov. 22:3; Matt. 2:13; Ez. 33:11)
*We CAN change directions. (33:11, 20; Ez. 18)
Heed the warnings. REPENT (turn) and LIVE! (Matt. 24:42; Ez. 33:10; Acts 2:37-41)
Christian Martin's sermon preached on September 6th, 2020 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
-
Worship as SACRIFICE.
-
Genesis 22
- Matt. 2:1-12
-
Dan. 3
-
Worship as SERVICE.
-
Ex. 7:14-25
-
Acts 24:1-21
-
Worship as LIFE.
-
Romans 12:1-4
- Phil. 1:20-21
- Gal. 2:20
- Col. 3:12-17
WHO or WHAT do you worship with your life today?
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on August 30th, 2020 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
*Ephesians 5:15-17
- Spiritual Growth is our PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY. (II Pet. 3:18; II Tim. 2:14-18; I Cor. 3:1-2; Heb. 5:11-6:3)
- DISCERNMENT is vital. (II Tim. 2:15-17; John 8:31-32, 43-47; Isa. 59:14-15)
- Freedom is worth DEFENDING. (Gen. 1:26-27; John 8:32, 36; II Cor. 3:17)
- Fear can be DESTRUCTIVE. (II Tim. 1:7)
Jesus is still LORD. We are NOT.
We need to follow Him with WISDOM and COURAGE.
Tom Claibourne's sermon preached on August 23rd, 2020 at Bethlehem Church of Christ in Winchester, OH.
Outline:
*Ephesians 5:15-17
- We live in a FALLEN world. (Gen. 1-3; Rom. 8:18-22)
- Life can CHANGE very quickly. (Ja. 4:14-17; 1 Cor. 16:5-7; Ps. 90:12; Eph. 5:15-17)
- "Church" is not confined to a specific PLACE or SCHEDULE.
- People still need EACH OTHER. (Acts 2:42-47; Heb. 10:24-25; Gen. 2:18)
- LESS is often better. (Isa. 30:15; Matt. 6:25ff; Lk. 12:15)
Jesus is still LORD. We are NOT.