First Baptist Blowing Rock: Recent Episodes
Rusty Guenther
Weekly sermons from Pastor Rusty Guenther of First Baptist Blowing Rock in Blowing Rock, North Carolina
One of the main teachings of the early church was the return of Jesus Christ to bring his followers to Heaven. In Thessalonica, when some early converts were passing away, other believers became concerned that since they missed the return of Christ then maybe they would miss Heaven. In the passage we look at in this message, Paul uses this opportunity to clarify what we believe concerning death and how it relates to the return of Christ. His intention is not to open some kind of theological debate about the "rapture" but rather answer pastorally and bring comfort and peace to the confusion.
This is not a 2000 years ago question - it still resonates today and even in the church there seems to be confusion about death, heaven and Christ return. In this message we seek to use Paul's lesson to answer, both in a general sense and in a specific sense, what happens when someone dies. The answers may surprise you. From 1st Thessalonians 4:13-18.
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We continue studying the Apostle Paul's teaching on how we can live a life that is "pleasing to God". We have already learned that God's will for our life is to be "sanctified" or living our life pursuing holiness and now he continues by laying out some other important principles we should be pursuing or using our "ambition" towards. Our character and integrity matters as part of our witness and that includes how we treat one another within the church body, but also how we live our lives outside of the church. Those factors play a huge role in our ability to earn the right to be heard when we share the gospel in our community. This message explores how we are called to love "more and more" (overflowing love in action) other Christians inside the church; live a quiet live (what does that mean?) mind our own business and work with our hands (stay in our lanes and serve others) and not be a burden on others. From 1st Thessalonians 4:9-12.
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As the Apostle Paul encourages the Thessalonians Christians to pursue Holiness and Sanctification in their lives, he contrast that with living a life of sexual immorality which he identifies with pagan behavior. Why would he single out this one sin or struggle over all of the others as a danger to holiness? What does he mean by "sexual immorality" and what does that term mean in our modern context? In this message we examine why sexual sins are different from other sins and how the consequences of any sexual behavior outsides the bounds of Biblical Marriage not only effects our ability to "please God" and "honor God with our bodies" but can also have a lifelong destructive consequence on all of our personal relationships. We also examine how you can overcome sexual temptation and sin. From 1st Thessalonians 4:3-8, 1st Corinthians 6:12-20.
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As we celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of our Declaration of Independence we examine the roots and background of our founding as a nation and why that still matters to Christians and the church in 2026. What are our responsibilities and obligations to uphold, treasure, share and pass along these founding principles and values to the next generation and how can we most effetely do that? The hope for our nation is not a more Christian government, but a Bible believing, Christ centered, Spirit filled church that is unafraid to address and stand against the moral and spiritual quagmire we are surrounded by. From Psalms 33
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What does Peter mean when he quotes Leviticus in saying, "Be Holy for I am Holy"? Is it something that God does for us, or something we do for ourselves? In our passage from Thessalonians, the Apostle Paul says that it is God's will that we all be sanctified and that living Holy lives pleases God but what does that look like in a practical sense ? In this message we answer all of those questions and more, clearing up any confusion and examine why pursuing holiness/sanctification/righteousness benefits us.
From 1st Thessalonians 4:1-8
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The Apostle Paul was a wonderful encourager to all of those who supported and benefited from his ministry and message and nowhere is that more evident than in his letter to the churches. Since Thessalonians is one of his first letters, it reveals why and how he saw encouragement to be a natural outflow of a Spirit filled and transformed heart. Join us to discover how we can become encouragers and why it is such a vital part of our Christian growth and ministry.
From 1st Thessalonians 3:6-13.
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How do we respond when its seems like everything we try to do, or feel like God is leading us to do, meets a brick wall? In our message today we will examine how the Apostle Paul dealt with Satan when he blocked him from gong back to visit the young believers at Thessalonika. Too many times we simply give up when the obstacles we face might be there to help us develop and grow in our faith and relationship with God. We examine why God would allow Satan to tempt, block, discourage and distract us from trying to be obedient to God's word and will for our life. We also look at how Paul used what the world meant for evil and turned it around into something that brings God glory and extends his Kingdom.
From 1st Thessalonians 2:17-3:5
The 9th Message from our Study of the letters to the Thessalonians
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In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus encourages Christians to "store up treasures in heaven" as opposed to storing them up on earth. What are these treasures and how can we store them up? Why does it matter if we are already in Heaven? You might have heard someone talk about getting a "crown" in heaven, or even a jewell in their heavenly crown - are those the same things as what Jesus was talking about? In this message from 1st Thessalonians 2:19-20 the Apostle Paul explains what the "crown" is that he hopes to receive when he is face to face with Jesus and by doing so gives some great insight into any "heavenly rewards" a Christian might receive in heaven. From 1st Thessalonians 2:17-20.
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The Apostle Paul is encouraging the young Christians at Thessaloniki as they face opposition and even persecution for their faith. Through this encouragement he makes some profound statements of truth about the message he has been preaching when he was among them. He declares that the gospel is not something put together by men or based on worldly philosophy but rather the actual voice of God. This simple, yet profound statement is a challenge to every one of us as we must ask ourselves how we see the Bible; is it a "good book" or is it "God's Book"? If it is the very voice of our creator speaking, then that changes everything about how we think, live and act. The Bible is the best selling book of all time, but it is also the most banned book of all time - why? It is also the most dangerous book of all time - listen in to discover why. From 1st Thessalonians 2:13-16.
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As we celebrate mothers, I wanted to look at a mother from the gospels who gets a bad rap from many readers and see if we could not redeem her reputation. Join us as we look at the mom of James and John and her encounter with Jesus that reveals her heart and passion for her boys and a lesson for all mothers.
From Matthew 20:20-24
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What does it really mean to be a part of a church family? Why do we even call it a family, and who gets to be a part of it? Are their requirements and expectations? In this message we look as the Apostle Paul shares his heart with the Thessalonians about his passion for serving them and what he expects from them. In doing so, we catch a glimpse of what it means to be a part of God's family and how that translates to the local church. Have you ever wondered why we use terms like "brother" and "sister" to describe fellows Christians? It is much deeper than just a title and if we are really spiritual siblings then we have some work to do!
From 1st Thessalonians 2:6-12
6th in a series.
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All of us have hopes, dreams and goals for our children and grandchildren; be a good person, be successful, do well in school, make and have friends. As they get older those goals grow more specific; get into a certain college, choose a career, be a success in athletics. All worthy and valuable goals; but what about spiritual goals? Most people never think about it in those terms and we can see the results in our culture and those young adults leaving the church. The Apostle Paul lays out his heart and motives to the Thessalonians church in our passage for today and by doing so, gives us some great insight into the importance of setting spiritual goals and having a spiritual plan for our children and grandchildren if we hope to pass on a legacy that will last. From 1st Thessalonians 2:6-12.
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All of us struggle with peer pressure or seeking the approval of others. It is part of our human nature - we want people to like us. What happens when that "want" becomes a "need" that we use as validation and identity? What happens when our desire to please others interferes with our desire to please and serve God? In our study from Thessalonians, the Apostle Paul deals with the dangers of what he calls "fearing people more than fearing God" and how it can impact not only how we see ourselves but also how we live out our everyday lives. From 1st Thessalonians 2:3-6
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When you look at the Apostle Paul's initial visit to Macedonia on his Second Missionary Journey it might be easy to label his efforts a failure. He was whipped, beaten and jailed in his first town Philippi. He was forced into hiding and snuck out of town in the middle of the night in Thessaloniki. He had to flee Berea in front of another angry mob and ended up in Athens. Might seem like a failed effort, but Paul address's this "failure" in his 1st letter to the Church at Thessaloniki and puts his efforts in spiritual terms. This gives us a springboard to discuss success and failure in our culture and how seeming failure can actually be the path to great success. We also look at how our past failures can hinder our ability to be obedient to God. From 1st Thessalonians 2:1-2.
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As we celebrate Easter, we discuss what "Silent Saturday" must have been like for those early followers of Jesus. Imagine the pain, struggle, suffering and utter hopelessness that must have filled their hearts after watching Jesus be tortured and killed on the Cross. We tend to look back at Saturday through the lens of Sunday and the resurrection, we know how the story ends - but they did not. The Apostle Paul writes in 1st Corinthians 15 about what the world would look like if Jesus had not risen from the grave and it must have been like what Jesus' friends, family and disciples felt on that Saturday. This is the same hopelessness that many feel in our world today, those who have never heard the life changing message of a risen Savior. In this Easter message we discuss the importance of the resurrection and the Hope it brings to our everyday lives, and how it must motivate us to declare the Good News that Jesus is Alive to everyone we know and come in contact with. From 1st Corinthians 15:12-20
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This is the message Pastor Rusty gave to prepare for Communion on Palm Sunday 2026. It includes the presentation of the bread and drink. From 2nd Samuel 9:1-13.
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In 1st Thessalonians 1:7 the Apostle Paul calls the Thessalonica Church a "model" church. As a new church with recent converts, what were they doing that led him to describe them this way and what does "model" mean? This message unpacks not only the term but the characteristics that made them an example for others to follow. The challenge for us as individual Christians and as the Church is are we modeling the same thing to those around us. From 1st Thessalonians 1:4-10.
Part 2 in our series from the Thessalonians letters of Paul
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In this introduction to our new sermon series from 1st and 2nd Thessalonians we look at the context of the Apostle Paul's visit to Thessaloniki from Acts 17 and how that relates to the letter. As one of the oldest books in the New Testament, and Paul's first letter to any church, we can see the building pattern and themes that will be prevalent in all of his letters. As he encourages and commends the church in his introduction, he also lays out the motivating factors for all Christians and churches on the importance of personal spiritual growth, serving others through ministry, and enduring and persevering when times get difficult. From 1st Thessalonians 1:1-3.
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This is the short Pastoral Prayer time before the message "Three Dangers Facing the Church in 2026" where Pastor Rusty sets the stage for the message but also offers a warning about judgement that could befall the American Church if we do not get serious about contending for the faith. From Matthew 11:20-24.
Please listen to the following podcast to get the full understanding of this message.
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In this message, Pastor Rusty identifies and breaks down the three greatest dangers facing the church in the coming year and to follow. Jude 3 tells us that one of our responsibilities as Christians is to "contend for the faith" yet so many in the church think that must be someone else's job and as we have grown comfortable, the world continues to press in and divide, discredit and diminish our message. This is a call for the church to wake up and become aware of the dangers both without and within and to rise up, speak up and contend.
Dangers to the Church
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A Culture that Hates Us
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Biblically Empty Pulpits
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Complacent Pews
From 1st Timothy 4:1-2; 2nd Timothy 4:1-3, 12-17; 1st John 4:1-3; Jude 3; Galatians 1:6-9.
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In this message we examine what its means to be part of a "Baptist" church. What we believe and why and what makes us distinctive from other denominations and groups. We look at church history from the early church in Acts through the protestant reformation to the founding of the first "Baptist" separatist. We examine the doctrines and theology that form, guided and directed the founding of the "Baptist" church and what it means for us today. We seek to answer the questions, "is it important?" and "why should I care?". We are first and foremost a Christian church, based on the teachings and message of Jesus Christ. We are also a Protestant church as well as a Biblically Conservative Evangelical church and each of those terms not only define us, but guide us as we serve and reach our communities with the message of Hope, Grace, forgiveness, and salvation. From Romans 6:1-5
Do you know what your church believes? Where they came up with those beliefs? Both of those things should be more important than good preaching, wonderful worship, or a dynamic youth or Childrens ministry when choosing where you make a church your home.
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In this message we examine the state of families and marriages in American today and discuss the importance of having a marriage based on a Biblical worldview. We look at the foundation of a Biblical Marriage and talk about why marriages dissolve, crumble and fall apart so quickly in today's culture and what we can do to strengthen, restore and redeem marriage. We also examine the 5 most prominent reasons that marriages fall apart and how to guard and protect against them. Regardless of the condition of your marriage or how long or short you have been married, these principles and ideas serve as a reminder that all marriages could use some help. From Genesis 2:18-23, Ephesians 5.
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In this message we examine the purpose statement for First Baptist Church of Blowing Rock. We discuss what people should be looking for in a church family and how we should fit into that search. We describe and discuss what our goal is as a local body of Christ and how every member has a role to play in helping us to accomplish those goals. From Colossians 3:11-17.
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We wrap up our series on living in the second mile by looking at the second metaphor that Jesus uses to describe his follower - Light. What did he mean by calling us light and how does that impact not just our own personal lives but the influence we have on others? Join us as we take a deep dive on the importance of light in our lives and how that translates to our everyday spiritual lives and our encounters with darkness. We also look at the results on our culture and nation when the church and individual Christians "hide their lights". From Matthew 5:14-16
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In Matthew 5:13, Jesus calls his followers "Salt". Of all the metaphors you could think of to describe Christians, salt does not sound like much of a compliment. What did he mean by describing Christians as salt and how does that relate to the second Mile? Join us to uncover why "salt" fit perfectly when describing the church and what can happen when a Christian or church loses it's saltiness.
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While most Christians strive to actively pursue all of the characteristics we have discussed for living in the second mile from Jesus's teachings on the Beatitudes, there is one that we actively avoid - persecution for being a follower of Jesus. Around the world today in places like Nigeria and Syria, Christians are not only facing terror and persecution for following Jesus, many are facing death. While here in America, persecution seems rare for Christians as we have been protected by our Constitution and our foundation on Judaeo/Christian values, that might not always be the case. In our passage, Jesus makes clear that for his followers, persecution is as much a reality as meekness or mercy - it is something that should be expected. Join us as we discover why Christians face persecution, how we can prepare for it and why Jesus would say that it is actually a gift. From Matthew 5:10-12.
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The Bible talks a lot about purity and being pure at heart but what does that mean? Is that something that God does for us or do we play a role in it - or both? Join us for this message on another characteristic that is evident in the lives of those who want to live in the second mile as Christians. We explore the confusion behind what it means to be "justified" and "sanctified" and how purity of heart has the potential to open our eyes to actually be able to see God move in our lives and in the world around us. From Matthew 5:8
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When do we most resemble Jesus? When do our actions and behaviors cause others to see Jesus in us the most? While Jesus tells us that the world will know we are His disciples "by our love", in Matthew 5, he identifies another characteristic that allows us to be most recognizable as Children of God. This morning we look at what does it really mean to experience "the peace that passes understanding" and how that impacts our personal relationships. What does being a "peacemaker" look like lived out in our everyday lives? From Matthew 5:9
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In today's culture we once again find the idea of being merciful or offering mercy to be politicized and considered a weakness - the same was true in the 1st Century during the life of Jesus Christ. That is one of the reasons that the "Good Samaritan"s " actions in the parable in Luke 10 are considered controversial. It was much easier then and now to stay disengaged and not get involved. To rationalize in our mind that "they got what was coming" or maybe even "better them than me", but Jesus turned that idea on its head by calling his followers to be merciful not because someone deserves it but simply because if we are truly his followers we have been offered so much mercy from God that we can't help but show mercy to those around us. Join us as we look at our 5th characteristic of someone who can live and thrive in the 2nd Mile. From Matthew 5:7
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Here we examine what it really means to "Hunger and Thirsty for Righteousness" by breaking down what each word means and what that means for our Christian walk. Are we really hungry for the presence of God or are we hungry for what God can do for us, or for a religious experience, or does it only happen during tragedies and struggles? If we are ever going to thrive living out "Second Mile" Christianity we must develop a spiritual appetite for the presence of God in every area of our lives. The problem is we are not spiritually hungry because we are too filled by the "food of the world" or we have never really understood how "hungry and thirsty" our souls are for the presence of God. Join us as we break down and examine this very important character trait and "Beatitude" from Matthew 5:6.
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When you think of the most powerful people on earth, meekness is not one of the character attributes we would usually use to describe them. Yet when Jesus is listing character traits that a Christ Follower will need to live and operate in the second mile, one of the most important is meekness. Not only is it the practical application when we seek to live the first two traits he has mentioned - it is what empowers us to strive to follow in his footsteps and be obedient to His Word. This message defines and explains what Biblical meekness is and why it is so important. It also gives us some practical examples of what meekness looks like lived out in our everyday lives. From Matthew 5:5.
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At the start of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus follows up his call for those who want to follow him to be "poor in spirit" to promise for those who mourn that they will be comforted. It is easy to read this as meaning "mourn" in a sense of our emotional response to facing death, sickness or tragedy, and there are plenty of those promises in the New Testament, but that is not what he is talking about here. In verse 4 of Chapter 5, he is talking about a different type of mourning. A type of mourning that is the emotional response to the intellectual reality of verse 3 - a mourning over sin. All sin and its consequences - the sin in our world, our nation, in the lives of those we love and most importantly in our own lives. We can never expect to live in the second mile if we are not heartbroken over the things that break God's heart. Listen to discover what that might look like in our everyday lives and learn the promise that comes to those who are broken hearted over sin. From Matthew 5:4
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When we realize how difficult it is for us to follow Jesus by living in the second mile, we come to understand it is only through the help and power of the Holy Spirit that we might accomplish it. It is easy to live in the first mile in our own strength, understanding, talents and ability - but for "second mile people" it requires a total dependence on the Holy Spirit. Even that can be difficult, so Jesus begins the Sermon on the Mount by giving us some heart attitudes / character traits that allow us to be open to the Holy Spirit's guidance and leadership and gives us motivation for the second mile. In this message we break down the first of those traits which is foundational for second mile living.
From Matthew 5:1-3
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As we start this new sermon series, we will be exploring what Jesus meant in Matthew 5:41 when he encourages his followers to "go the second mile" and what that might look lived out in our everyday lives. We explore the context and history related to the passage as well as examining how it fits into the overall theme of the Sermon on the Mount. This new series will be looking at the Beatitudes and the role they play in helping us to develop a heart, passion and vision that will allow us to make the second mile our home. From Matthew 5:38-42.
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We close out our sermon series on those who had encounters with Jesus with probably the most relatable character in our entire series. He is the only one who was already a Christian and had probably known Jesus and followed him in his early ministry, but our encounter takes place much later while he is living in Damascus and Jesus comes to him while he is praying. Jesus ask Annanias to complete what seemed like a simple task; go find a man and pray for him and tell him that God has and important job for him. Something that most of us have done before in praying and encouraging others - but the man Annanias is called to visit was the Christian killing Pharisee named Saul. Join us to discover what happened and how this simple encounter challenges all of us. From Luke 9:10-19.
The final sermon in the series "The Had Been with Jesus".
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In this encounter with Jesus, we look outside of the Gospels for the first time to the book of Acts as we meet Saul the Pharisee. Introduced to us at the murder/stoning of Stephen, one of the first deacons in the new Jerusalem church, by the Pharisees and religious leaders. We discover that when it comes to opposing, persecuting and pursuing the new Christian converts, Saul is unmatched. With the assassination of Charlie Kirk, we have seen a very overt, open and obvious (and sometime demonic) hatred of Christians in America and what they stand for - Saul the Pharisee would give any of those a run for their money when it comes to being evil. So, how did he turn from this open hatred and persecution of Christians to become the Apostle Paul, that we love and respect today? It was a simple encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus and in that encounter, we might discover an answer for the American church in how we should respond to what is happening all around us. From Acts 7 and Acts 9
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In this encounter with Jesus, we look at the dinner party thrown by Simon the Pharisee that was crashed by an unnamed "sinful woman" with an alabaster jar full of perfume. While it is actually two encounters, both reveal something about worship that many "seasoned" Christians lose sight of our take for granted. As we discuss this encounter, we will look at both our personal and corporate worship experience and ask the question whether it actually reflects our own encounters with God. A look at how and why we sing as an act of Worship as well as our posture and behavior in corporate worship. We also challenge the church on the dangers of a spirit of entitlement that can affect us all over time and how to overcome it. From Luke 7:36-50.
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In this message Pastor Rusty starts by offering some thoughts and reflections on the murder of Charlie Kirk and is aftereffects. He also ties in this assassination and several other troubling current events to the Encounter that Jesus had with the man born blind and the question of "Why". Why does God allow this kind of evil to run free? Why would God allow such evil to happen to good people? Jesus reveals in our study that "why" is the wrong question. Listen in to discover the right question and how it affects every one of us as we face difficulties and struggles. We also examine the various groups response to the healing of the blind man and how that relates to how each one of us responds when we see God working. From John 9
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Any time a Christians mentions the dangers and consequences of living a sinful lifestyle, it doesn't take long to hear someone proclaim Matthew 7:1, "Judge not least you be judged" or John 8:7 "You without sin cast the first stone." They try to use these versus to silent their critics or anyone who doesn't celebrate their life choices. In this message we examine John 8 and Jesus' encounter with the women caught in adultery and answer those who try and use this passage to justify their sins. We also examine the danger of Christians standing on truth without the balance of grace to reach a dying and lost culture. In this story, we have the perfect example to follow if we hope to open the eyes of a blinded and lost generation. From John 8
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When discussing his desire to broker peace between Russia and Ukraine, President Trump stated that he hoped that by securing a lasting peace, he could gain a spot in Heaven. While it is easy to point out how this view does not line up with scripture, the Presidents view is shared by almost half of all those who claim to be Christian and who attend churches. This gives us a perfect opportunity to engage with an encounter Jesus had with someone who holds this same view about how to secure a spot in heaven and to discover Jesus's response. We will be looking at what it means to be "born again" through Jesus's encounter with the Pharisee Nicodemus. From John 3
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In this message we examine the importance of not just "feeling thankful" but rather the call on our lives to "be thankful" and how that looks in our everyday lives. We unpack how expressing our gratitude to both God and others can transform our perspective as well as our hearts. We discuss the foundation of a thankful heart - humility and contentment as well as the greatest enemy of developing that kind of mindset - entitlement and selfishness. Join us as we look at the encounter Jesus had with 10 men cursed with leprosy and why only one of them returned to thank him after he healed them. From Luke 17:10-19
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In this follow up to last week's message we examine the aftershocks of Jesus' encounter with the Samaritan Woman at the well in John 4. We look at the disciple's response to the encounter and how that relates to the modern American church. We also break down what Jesus meant when he declared that the type of worshipers that God desires worship Him in Spirit and Truth. John 4:19-26, 27-38.
Part two of The Woman at the Well encounter
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In this message we explore Jesus' encounter with the Samaritan Women at the Well. Why did the Jewish people despise the Samaritans and why does the Gospel of John say that Jesus "had to go" to Samaria when most Jewish people would go around it? Who was this woman and why was it important that Jesus speak with her? Listen in as we unpack those questions and find some commonality with the church today and how this encounter brings hope for everyone who may think they are beyond the touch of God. Part one of two from John 4.
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In this message we examine Jesus' encounter with the money changers in the outer courts of the temple. Why was Jesus so angry and what can it tell us about the modern church? We look at the background to the encounter and how Jesus responded to the religious leaders to discern some priorities for a modern church Jesus might attend. From Matthew 21:12-17.
11 in the sermon series
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In this message we examine the importance, power and responsibilities of freedom as Americans and followers of Jesus Christ. If we celebrate our freedoms as Americans, how much more should we be living out and celebrating our spiritual freedoms as Christians. Sadly, most in the church don't understand what it means to be spiritually free and don't understand what they have been set free from. Join us as we examine our Spiritual freedoms that Christ secured on the Cross and how we can experience them in our everyday lives. From John 8:31-36
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What are the expectations that Jesus placed on those wanting to follow him and how does that relate to His expectations for you and me? In this message we examine 3 people who encountered Jesus all with the intention of following him, yet they all walked away in the end. From Luke 9:57-62.
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Our encounter with Jesus this week involves the well know story of Zaccheaus the chief tax collector. Not only do we examine his encounter with Jesus that shocked those around them, but we also look at Zack's transformation and what that might mean for our lives. We also discuss how the parable of the Lost Sheep where the Shepherd leaves the 99 to go find the one that was lost relates to Jesus seeking out Zaccheaus and how the everyday Christ follower and the American church might fit into the story. From Luke 19:1-10
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In this Father's Day message and in keeping with our Sermon series, we examine an encounter that a desperate dad and "royal official" had with Jesus. Through this story, we examine the characteristics of a dad who transforms his home and family's spiritual legacy by his approach and response to Jesus. This story gives us some insight into the types of dads the world needs today if we are going to withstand the attacks and onslaught of a lost culture. From John 4:43-54.
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This week we look at the encounter Jesus had with who we call the "Gadarian Demoniac", which might be a misnomer since he might not have even been from Gadara. We examine the background of the encounter and how the area that was given to the Tribe of Gad where the encounter takes place might have been the perfect place for demonic activity and why. We also look at how demonic activity can affect a Christian and how we can find ourselves in "bondage" to the very things that Jesus sets us free from. Join us to discover what spiritual bondage might look like and how we can be set free once and for all. From Mark 5:1-20.
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Back in the 1980's and 90's there was a theological debate in the evangelical community on whether someone could accept Jesus as Savior (forgiven, redeemed, eternal security) and not accept him as Lord (submission and surrender). Some of that still lingers today in the way we parse out what it means to be a genuine follower of Christ and seem to use those two terms as if our response to God's offer of salvation is two separate events, but the Bible never expresses or communicates it this way. In this message we examine the encounter Jesus has with the person who we call the "Rich Young Ruler" and discover that there can be no salvation without complete surrender - of everything we have and are. From Luke 18:18-30.
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In this Mother's Day message, we discuss a desperate mother who seeks Jesus out for help with her demon possessed daughter and gets a surprising response. Many people misunderstand Jesus's response in seemingly calling her a "dog" and get sidetracked on the real power of the story - the persistent faith of a determined mother. By the end of the encounter, Jesus calls her a "mother of great faith". Listen to find out what it takes to be a mother of great faith. From Matthew 15:21-28.
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In this message we examine the four men who were so intent on getting their paralyzed friend to Jesus that they ripped open the roof of the house and dropped him through. We discuss which group that we might identify with in this story (crowd, critics, companions) and how that reflects on our sense of urgency or complacency as it relates to our obedience to God's Word and His Will. From Mark 2:1-12
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We kick off a new sermon series based on the description given to John and Peter by the religious leaders in Act 4:13 "They were ordinary and unschooled men but they were astonished and took note that they had been with Jesus.". This new series will look at every day, ordinary individuals who encountered Jesus and how it changed or impacted their lives. We kick the series off by looking at 4 individuals who encountered Jesus on the last day he was alive; two of his disciples who betrayed him and the two thieves on the cross who died with him. Listen in to discover how those 4 separate paths will lead to two very different destinations after their encounters with Jesus. From John 13:19-38, Luke 23:38-43.
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As we wrap up our sermon series on Spiritual Warfare, we look at some words of encouragement that the Apostle Paul wrote in his first letter to the messy and dysfunctional church at Corinth. In his encouragement we discover 5 "imperatives" or commands that will help us stay focused on the battles we face in our everyday lives. He also gives us some insight on how to overcome and find spiritual victory while we "stand firm" rooted in God's word and trusting in the power of the Holy Spirit. From 1st Corinthians 16:13-14. Final message in Spiritual Warfare series.
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In this message we examine the importance of prayer when it comes to spiritual warfare. How do we integrate our prayer lives into the battles we are confronted with on a daily basis and what does that prayer look like? Listen in as we discuss the power and purpose of prayer in our daily lives and especially as it relates to Spiritual Warfare. From Ephesians 6:18
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In Christian circles the phrase "the word of God" is synonyms for the Bible and while that is certainly true and valid, when the Apostle Paul uses this same phrasing to describe the Bible as an incredible weapon and part of our Spiritual Armor, his meaning holds a much deeper truth. In exploring his use of "word" in the Greek language, we begin to understand exactly how we are to wield this "Sword of the Spirit" as both an offensive and defensive weapon and how that fits into our role and responsibility in the battle - to Stand. Join us as we unpack how powerful the "rhema" sword can be when facing temptation, attacks and struggles in helping us to overcome in our daily battles. From Ephesians 6:10-17.
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Have you ever felt spiritually weary or even burned out? Been discouraged by the lack of progress you see in your spiritual growth? Ever given up in your prayer and devotional life because you didn't sense any progress? This message is for you! In this message, we continue to examine the spiritual weapons that we have been given to counter the attacks that Christians face on a daily basis. This week we examine the "Helmet of Salvation" and what the Apostle Paul meant by linking a Roman soldier's helmet with "salvation". To do so, we must examine how the term "salvation" is used in the New Testament and how those uses can effectually become weapons. Listen to discover how our "Hope of and in Salvation" can defeat any doubt or discouragement you might face. From Ephesians 6:17
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Too many Christians are unaware of the power of faith. Most understand that we are "saved" by placing our faith in the person of Jesus Christ and his completed redemptive work on the Cross, but we fail to grasp how our Faith can impact every decision we make and the actions that follow. Faith is so important to the life of an everyday believer that the Apostle Paul includes it as one of our weapons as part of the "Armor of God". So how can we activate, grow and develop this faith to the point that it becomes a "shield" protecting us from the attacks of the enemy and the things of this world? Join us as we discuss the power of faith and how it can change our lives. From Ephesians 6:16 and Hebrews 11:1.
This is part one of two messages on the "Shield of Faith" and number 12 in our series on Spiritual Warfare.
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Why would the Apostle Paul equate Peace with footwear when he is outlining the spiritual weapons we have been given to stand against the attacks of the enemy? What does it really mean to understand and experience peace - even in the midst of the worst that this world can throw at us? Join us for the message on the importance of peace in the spiritual battle and learn how Christians can allow peace to influence their emotions, obedience and passion as they follow Christ. From Ephesians 6:14-17.
This is message 11 in our sermon series on Spiritual Warfare
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In this message from our Spiritual Warfare Series, we examine the importance that the Apostle Paul places on the "Breastplate of Righteousness" as protection from the attacks of the enemy. Why a breastplate and how can righteousness protect our Heart? We examine the historical understanding of what the heart and stomach represent and how the protection needed is for much more than our internal organs. We also examine how righteousness empowers followers of Christ to stand against doubt, confusion and false doctrine along with providing true joy for our everyday lives. From Ephesians 6:10-14.
This is the 10th messages in our series on Spiritual Warfare and our 4th message on the Armor of God.
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In this message we examine what the Apostle Paul calls the "Belt of Truth" and why it is so significant for a Christians facing spiritual warfare. What is this truth and how can it empower us to confront and overcome the lies of the world and the attacks of the accuser? Join us as we look at the historical nature of the "belt" for a Roman soldier and how those some attributes apply to Christians engaged in Battle. From Ephesians 6:14-17.
The 9th Message in our Spiritual Warfare series.
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As pick back up on our series from the Fall on Spiritual Warfare, we begin to examine the "Armor of God" that the Apostle Paul describes in Ephesians 6. Is this a literal armor? symbolic? a little of both? Why do we need it if we already have Jesus Christ? In the next couple of weeks, we will examine each element of the armor, but this morning's message focuses on why this armor is so important for our daily walk as a Christian and how it fits into the overall understanding of Spiritual Warfare. From Ephesians 6:10-13.
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We wrap up our New Years short series that examines the past, present and future of the church by comparing them to King Saul, the Prophet Samuel and David as found in 1st Samuel 16:1. We also use this comparison to look where individual Christians might find their devotional and relationship to God as it relates to yesterday, today or tomorrow. This final message looks at the church of tomorrow by examining Samuel's anointing the young shepherd boy David as the next King of Israel. From 1st Samuel 16:1-13.
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We continue our look at the three characters found in 1st Samuel 16:1 by examining the role that Samuel played in moving the nation of Israel forward by obeying God and anointing David as the next King. In this obedience, Samuel became the bridge between yesterday (Saul) and tomorrow (David). In this message we ask the question, "Where are the Samuel's today?" the Christians and church members who are willing to guard, protect and pass on the anointing of God to the next generation. Second in a series of Three messages.
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In this message we examine a pivotal moment in time for the nation of Israel as God removes his anointing from Saul and calls Samuel to go to the house of Jesse to anoint a new King. In this moment, all three of the characters are facing huge life changing decisions that will reverberate for years to come. As we move into the new year, many of the choices and decisions we will make could turn pivotal with ripples that not only affect us but those closest to us. We also examine what is the anointing of God and how you can lose it - even as a church - and what we can do to guard and protect it. From 1st Samuel 16:1. Part one of two.
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In this Christmas message we examine the two birth narratives from Luke and Matthew and look at the differences between the two and explain why they are different. By harmonizing the two versions we get a complete picture that reminds us of what is truly important about both stories - the incarnation. From Luke 2:1-7
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As we kick off the Advent season and begin looking towards Christmas, this message challenges us to prepare our hearts for the true meaning of the Christmas Season. We ask the question; have we spent as much time preparing our hearts as we have our homes? If not, then is it any wonder so many miss the power and purpose of Christmas. To help us prepare we look at some lessons from the one who was sent to prepare the way for Jesus, John the Baptist. From Luke 3:1-6.
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As we approach Thanksgiving, this message examines what it really means to be grateful and thankful and what role contentment plays in developing this kind of approach to life. From Philippians 3:10-13
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What does Paul mean when he encourages the Corinthians to "take every thought captive" and what does it have to do with Spiritual Warfare? This message explains and gives some practical examples on what that might look like and why it plays such a critical role in the battle for our minds. From 2nd Corinthians 10:3-6
The 7th message in the Battle Sermon Series on Spiritual Warfare
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In this message we discuss the battle for the mind and strongholds in our mind. What is a stronghold? How do they get built up and what can we do to tear them down. Using another Old Testament example from the life of David, we examine how Christians can identify strongholds and why it is important to deal with them sooner rather than later. From 2nd Corinthians 10:3-5, 2nd Samuel 5:6-10
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As we continue to discuss the role and responsibilities of a Christ follower when it comes to Spiritual Warfare, this message takes a deeper dive on just what it means "to Stand". Using an illustration from one of David's Warriors in 2nd Samuel 23, we discover just what it might look like for us to make a stand against the enemies of God. From Ephesians 6:13, 2nd Samuel 23:10-11.
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When you examine Paul's teaching from Ephesians 6;10-13 on spiritual warfare you find two expectations or responsibilities for Christians; "wrestle" and "stand", but what does that mean and actually look like in our everyday lives. In this message we look at some of Paul's other teachings regarding the Christians role in warfare and what it means to "stand". From Ephesians 6:1-13, 2 Timothy 2:3-4, 1 Timothy 1:18-19.
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In this message we look at the Garden of Eden to examine how Satan tempts us to questions God's word and the effects that has on our ability to walk in obedience and overcome sin. We also look at Satan's interaction with Jesus in the Wilderness to discover the ways we are tempted to sin and how to reject and overcome the temptation through the power of scripture. From Genesis 3:1-7, Matthew 4:1-11.
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In this message we examine the enemies of the Christian that Paul identifies in Ephesians 6 and how we can overcome and be victorious in the battle. We also examine the enemy within - our old nature/the flesh and how Satan and the World feeds and corrupts the flesh and disrupts our ability to give control of our lives over to the Holy Spirit. From Ephesians 6:10-12
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This message is a response to all that our area here in the mountains of Western North Carolina have experienced this past week due to Hurricane Helene. We discuss how the community has come together to serve as the hands and feet of Christ during such a devastating tragedy. We also look at how God provides peace, comfort and victory during the most difficult storms of our lives. From Mark 4:35-41.
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In this introduction to our new Sermon Series on Spiritual Warfare we examine what Spiritual Warfare is and why it is so important for individual Christians and the church to recognize and prepare for the war taking place all around us. From Ephesians 6:10-12.
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We wrap up our studies from the letter of John by taking another look at 3rd John and the situation John is addressing concerning some missionaries he had sent and how the local church was responding to them. This gives us a great example on the importance of missions and its call on the Christians life. We examine how the church is doing spreading the gospel around the world and what it means to support international missions and missionaries. We only have two options; we are either called to go as part of the sent, or we are commanded to support those who are send as part of the "senders". From 3rd John 5-11.
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As we examine 3rd John we see a contrast between two people that John mentions in this short letter and how they responded to his message of truth and those he sent to deliver it. What is the truth he is talking about and why is it so important that we not only welcome and receive it, but that we apply it to our everyday lives? From 3rd John, key verses 3-8.
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While John addresses the same themes of Love and Truth that we found in 1st John here in his second letter, he also becomes more direct in how Christians should deal with false teachers and false teaching and not just the kind coming from those within the church. What about how we allow the influences of the world's popular philosophies and worldviews to infiltrate our own thinking, actions and beliefs? What about how they are influencing our families, our children and our homes? John offers a pretty direct and seemingly harsh warning, but will we listen, or will we continue to pay the price and remain silent and ignore what is going on all around us. In this message we identify some modern "American False Gods" or idols that we are seeing become prominent in our culture, our schools and even in the church. Key verses 2nd John 7-11.
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In this final message from our series in 1st John we take an overview of the entire book and examine some metrics that John lays out to give an indication whether a Christian is growing spiritually or not. We examine 5 indicators that John points to as behaviors that will be found in the life of any Christian who is growing beyond just the basics of our faith. From 1st John 5:13, Hebrews 5:11-6:1.
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In this message we examine the dangerous influence that idols can have on our spiritual growth and relationship with God. We identify some modern-day idols that Christians struggle with and how to overcome them. From 1st John 5:20-21.
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Continued discussion on how to overcome personal sin in our lives, including those secret sins that we think no one knows about. From 1st John 5:16-19
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As John draws his letter to a close, he reminds the church and Christians the importance of accountability within the church and the importance of praying for one another. All of us struggle to overcome sin in our lives and John wants us to make sure we utilize the power of the local faith community in our struggles. From 1st John 5:16-19.
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In this message we look at the importance, privilege and power of personal prayer in the lives of Christian. Prayer is the most underused weapon the Christian has available for dealing with the struggles of this life as well as developing a deeper and more intimate relationship with God. From 1st John 5:13-15.
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John tells us in 1st John 5:13 that the purpose of this letter was so that Christians could have assurance in eternal life. So that we could be confident in our relationship with God through Jesus Christ and have no doubts about what awaits us when we die. Yet, if you were to ask many in the church "If you were to die today, where would you go" you are likely to heave answers that start with "I hope" or "I think". John warns us that there is a vast difference between our hope and thinking and having confident assurance (knowing). So how can we know for sure? Join us as we discover that our assurance is not based on wishful thinking or hope but rather facts and faith! Why is it so important to John? Because your answer will affect every area of how you live your life. From 1st John 5:6-13.
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In the 15th Century, a Christian Monk with the name Johnn of the Cross coined a phrase, "The Dark Night of the Soul" to describe those times in a Christians life when they face such struggle, difficulties and trials that they feel like God has abandoned them. If you live the Christian life long enough, you will probably face a "Dark Night". In today's message we examine those Dark Nights and how they happen, what they are like and how we can overcome them. From 1st John 5:4-5
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With all the changes that are taking place in our nation and culture as we move from our Judeo-Christian values where the traditional family is foundational towards a progressive postmodern, post Christian environment - what is the church and Christian's response supposed to be? Should we wait it out and hope for the best, or maybe disengage and strive to outlast what is happening with hopes that we might find our way back to "the good old days?" As worry, fear and anxiety grip Christian parents as they think about the future their children will inherit, what can the church do? Join us as we discuss our only choice and option as followers of Jesus Christ and how the promise of "overcome" lights the way forward. From 1st John 5:1-5.
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We live in a culture where the word "love" has been hijacked by many groups and organizations as a means to justify any and all sorts of lifestyles and behaviors. This subjective view of love has, by its overuse, pretty much made the word undefinable. Yet, the Apostle John spends most of his gospel and a good section of his New Testament letters clearly defining love and in our passage for today from 1st John, he roots that definition in the fact that "God is Love"! What does that mean and why is it important for Christians to not only grasp this important truth, but to learn how we can give this same love away? How does the true, biblical definition of the Greek word for love, "Agape" help us make a stand in a culture where love means anything or everything or even nothing at all? Join us as we unpack this powerful message from 1st John 4:7-21 where John uses the word Agape 27 times to make sure we grasp this important "life-giving" truth.
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As John continues to warn about False Teachers in 1st John 4, he builds on last week's passages on "testing the spirits" and comparing what is being taught about Jesus Christ with scripture, in this week's passages he adds the influence of the Holy Spirit. In this message we discuss how the "power" of the Holy Spirit allows us to overcome the influence of the world philosophies and discern truth from error. We also examine some common misunderstandings about what that "power" is and does in the life of a Christian. We also look at some rising false teachings that are integrating themselves into the church today like secular humanism, postmodernism, and the self-help and prosperity gospel movements. From 1st John 4:4-6.
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The Apostle John again warns of false teachers and false teachings in our passage for this message. Here he goes a step further than just warning but also gives some practical test to identify a false teacher and how we can know what they are teaching is unscriptural. Listen in to discover some tools we can use to protect ourselves, our families and our churches from these false teachers that seem to be growing more prevalent in the American church. From 1st John 4:1-3.
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This message continues our look at 1st John 3:19-24 and the issue of doubts. So many struggle with the assurance of their salvation and in this letter, the Apostle John explains how we can find security in our relationship with God. We break down why it is so important to recognize and utilize the privilege we have to approach God with worship and our prayer request as well as what it means to have God dwelling inside of the Christian with the Holy Spirit. Part 2 of the message from May 12, 2024.
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While most of 1st John is written to differentiate between those who "claim to be believers" or "say they believe" versus true believers in Jesus Christ, it also gives us some "test" to help those who are struggling with doubts about their faith to find some assurance. Most of those tests are taught in general terms like "Walking in the Light", "Love your brother" or "hate the world" but in our passage for this morning John gives three biblical truths that directly address doubt and finding peace when it comes to knowing where you stand in your relationship with God. In this message we only address the first truth, "Jesus Christ is greater than your sin" and examine how that impacts our doubts and struggles. We also discuss the idea of "deconstructing your faith" and the dangers of relying on emotions and feelings when it comes to your relationship with God. From 1st John 3:19-20. The other 2 truths will be in next week's message.
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All of us have defaults, they are what we fall back on when called to react to something unexpected. They are part of our old nature, who we were before we became Christians and if we are not careful, they can hinder our relationship with God and with others. So how do we change those defaults and which ones should be a priority? Join us as we examine the command for Christians to love others and how that struggle might require some new default settings. 1st John 3:11-18.
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One of the debates that plagued the early church and continues through today is the issue of sin and how it affects the life of a Christian. Early church cults taught that since we are under grace and forgiven, it doesn't matter if we sin, and we should not worry about it - this came to be known as "antinomian" thought and was considered heresy by the early church fathers. Yet, we still see it creeping into the church today. Paul addresses this issue in Romans 6 and in our study from 1st John, the Apostle John will deal with it in our passage for this morning. John looks at it from the standpoint of how our attitude and response to sin will always reveal our true nature. Join us to discover how we can have a proper perspective on sin and the danger it poses to the Christians life. From 1st John 3: 4-10.
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What does the Apostle John mean when he uses the term "child of God" to describe those who are Christ followers? You hear people say we are "all God's children" but is that scriptural? In our passage for this message John unpacks the power, privilege and responsivities that come with that name and how it impacts our personal identity. He is drawn to this discussion through his focus on the unexplainable love that God has for his children. From 1st John 2:28-3:3.
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This message examines the warning about false teachers that have infiltrated the early church and are causing division and distractions. These "anti-Christ", as John calls them, are dangerous and need to be exposed and confronted. John gives us 3 ways to expose these false teachers and 3 ways we can protect ourselves from their deception. From 1st John 2: 18-27.
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In this message we examine certain "worldly" distractions that can hinder, harm and diminish our personal relationship with God and how to overcome them. From 1st John 2:12-17.
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A look at how the resurrection of Jesus Christ influences every area of a Christian's life, not just eternity. We discuss how hopeless the world would be without the empty tomb and a risen savior! From 1st Corinthians 15.
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A message on "Good Friday" and the meaning and message of the Cross. This message examines the deceleration of Jesus on the cross "My God, My God, why has thou Forsaken me?" and how it relates to Psalms 22. From Matthew 27:45-46, Psalms 22.
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How can you tell if someone is a Christian or not? That has been a struggle from the beginning as false teachers and teaching began to invade the church. That is why the Apostle John in 1st John uses phrases like "you may claim" "if you say" as if to indicate that there were a lot of people in those early churches claiming to be followers of Christ but were not. Since then, generations of Christians have tried to find identifying markers for a disciple of Jesus - most centered around eternal identifying markers that focus on certain behavior (pray a prayer, baptism, church membership, good and sincere people) or lack of behaviors (don't do certain things that we have deemed bad behavior). Unfortunately, you can do or not do all of those things and still not be a Christian. Lucky for us Jesus identified one true trait that will allow the world to know that we are his followers. Listen in as we unpack this trait and why it sounds so simple can be incredibly difficult to walk out in our everyday lives. From 1st John 2:6-11.
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A message on stepping out on faith as individuals and as a church as we move forward striving to reach our region with the message of Jesus Christ. Also, a message of encouragement for anyone who needs to trust in God when making big decisions.
From Numbers 13-14.
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We all follow someone - it shows in how we dress, the music we listen to, the television shows we watch, even in some of our attitudes. We even have people today whose sole job it is to gain followers on social media as "influencers". The real questions is where are those people we follow leading us, and how does that affect our relationship with God. In the message today we examine how the Apostle John outlines the difference between those who claim to know about Jesus and those who actually "know" him or have had a personal life changing experience with him. One of the ways indicated is by who we follow. What does it mean to "walk as Jesus walked"? and is that even possible? From 1st John 2:3-6.
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Millions of people watching the Super Bowl likely saw an ad put out by an organization with the goal of introducing or reintroducing people to Jesus - separating him from the politics of today - or at least that was their stated intentions. Sadly, all the ad did was double down on the politics by presenting a Jesus who seems to fit into the politically correct "oppressor/oppressed" narrative of the social justice movement that has permeated our colleges and culture. Instead of revealing what makes Jesus Christ more unique and compelling than anyone else in history, they chose to try to "use" him as means to justify their own unscriptural narrative. Listen in to discover why it is so important for the church to preach, proclaim, and represent a Jesus Christ who does much more than "just get us". From 1st John 2:1-2.
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All of us wear mask from time to time. Mask that disguise our true thoughts, mask that project who we wish we could be, mask that make us seem more "spiritual" than we really are. In ancient Greece those actors who wore mask for the theater were known as "Hypokrites" or what we would today call "hypocrites". Jesus confronts the Pharisees in Matthew 23 by seven times calling them "hypocrites" for the way their words and actions do not match up with what they claim to believe. Do we still have a "hypocrite" problem in the church today? Could that be what is turning people away from listening to our message? In today's message we examine the words of the Apostle John from 1st John that could give us some insight into how and why we need to "take off the mask" and develop a culture of honesty and authenticity within the church and what the possible benefits might be. From 1st John 1:7-2:2.
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In 1st John 1:5-7, the Apostle John reflects on a concept that he introduced in his gospel using the metaphor of "Light" to explain how Jesus Christ provides eternal and abundant life to those who follow him. In using the term "Walking in the Light", John explains the difference between having a relationship with God and being in "fellowship" or communion with God. The difference in the two involves a person's willingness to be obedient to God's word and "Walk in the Light". This message breaks down the difference between light and darkness and how those type choices and paths effect every area of our lives and our ability to grow spiritually. From 1st John 1:5-7. John 1:1-5, John 3:16-21.
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In this introduction to our new study from 1st John, we look at the context and background of the letter as well as the importance of personal application or obedience to scripture.
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In this message we examine the importance of "being available" when God calls your name to serve. Hebrews 10:23-25
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The national media and even those in religious circles love to talk about the demise of the American church. They emphasize every pastoral scandal, talk about the church closings and love to point out that it seems millennials are leaving the church in droves - but what is really going on? Is the American church on its last legs? Has the church lost its influence and voice? We kick off the New Year with a message of Hope for the church and its members as we look at why the Church will continue to thrive, grow and overcome in the coming year. From Matthew 16:13-20.
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This is the message from Christmas Eve 2023 that examines the Christmas story from Luke 2 and looks at the historical significance of why we celebrate Jesus' birth on December 25th and how that event should impact each one of us spiritually.
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This is the passage of scripture that Pastor Rusty read and discussed during the New Year Eve 2023 service as we look forward to 2024. Many choose a verse or "word" going into the new year that can be a guide for their spiritual journey. Here, Pastor Rusty shares what the Holy Spirit laid on his heart for the church as we face what could be a divisive and contentious year in 2024. Psalms 51:3-13
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This is the message from New Years Eve 2023 as we look at some lessons from the birth narratives in Matthew 2 that will have an impact on our lives in 2024.
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This message is a challenge to use the message of John the Baptist in Luke 3 as a way to prepare our hearts for the true meaning, power and purpose of the birth of Jesus Christ this Christmas.
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We kick off the Advent season by seeking to answer the question - When does Christmas actually begin? What does the Bible say about the origin of God's plan that played out in the manger of Bethlehem. We look at some Old Testament prophecy to unpack why the first Sunday of Advent focuses on Hope.
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We wrap up our study of the book of Colossians by examining the Apostle Paul's final words as he lists all of those who have been encouraging and supporting him and the church while in prison. Many times, we rush past these lists of names at the close of Paul's letters, but those names are there for a reason and in this message, we examine each person and how they supported Paul and why they are listed. This gives us a great opportunity to think about all the people who have supported us and why surrounding ourselves with the right people is vital to our spiritual growth and maturity. From Colossians 4:8-18.
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We continue looking at Colossians 4:2-6 and the practical advice the Apostle Paul gives us for sharing our faith with others.
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We examine and discuss the protestant reformation and split from the Roman Catholic Church and the split between that church and the Eastern Orthodox faith and what they believe
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We examine the modern New Age movement and philosophies and their influence on the church.
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As we continue to look at Colossians 4:2-6, we examine the second half of Paul's plea when it comes to what Christian's should be devoted to. Last week we looked at the importance of developing a personal prayer life (talking to God about people vs 2-3) and this week we examine - talking to people about God - Evangelism. We focus in our developing a heart that is passionate about sharing our faith and "making the most of every opportunity."
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All of us have things that we are devoted to, or passionate about but how do those things rate compared to what God says Christians should be devoted to as new creations? Paul continues to provide examples of how living a new life in Christ should impact our everyday lives by examining how we spend our time, talent and treasure in the things we are passionate about as Christians. In our passage from Colossians 4:2-6, he insists that Christians should "be devoted to prayer". What does that look like and why is it so important? Join us to discover the most underused and important weapon available for a Christian.
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All of us have had jobs we didn't like, or aspects of our jobs that we don't like or feel like the task are beneath us. It has led some of us to burnout or discouragement and sometimes even a search for another job. What if there was a way, we could change the way we view our jobs or find a new level of motivation for waking up and going in on Mondays? As the Apostle Paul continues to outline the changes that come from living a life that has been "crucified with Christ" look like in all of our relationships, in this morning's text, he examines both our work relationships and our relationship with work. From Colossians 3:22-4:1.
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As the Apostle Paul continues to explain how those who have been transformed through the power of salvation in Jesus Christ are to live their lives; this week he looks at how it effects the home and our relationships in the home. From our relationship with our spouse and our children and even how Christian children are to respond to their parents - he lays out a couple of Biblical principles that will not only transform your personal relationships, but it can also change the dynamics of your home. While there is no such thing as a "perfect marriage" or a "perfect family" we can strive to develop spiritually healthy homes by following God's word and the leadership of the Holy Spirit. From Colossians 3:17-21.
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We examine the current conflict going on between Israel and Hamas or those who call themselves Palestinians from both a historical and Biblical standpoint.
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We continue looking at the prescriptions that the Apostle Paul lays out for living a life both "crucified with Christ" and "alive in his resurrection power". As he continues to encourage the Colossians, he identifies some of the results that you can expect to see in the life of a spiritually healthy believer and a spiritually healthy church and how those results can impact our personal lives and the life of our faith communities. From Colossians 3: 15-17.
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We examine the history and practices of the religion of Islam. From our Sunday night series on Comparative Religions.
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We look at the history and beliefs of Judaism and how it relates to Christianity.
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A recent Barna survey found that 80% of the churches in North America are either plateaued or in decline and that over 1000 churches are closing their doors every month. Something is not right with the Church. As many churches face continual struggles with spiritual health and dysfunction, they strive to place blame and look for quick fixes. Maybe they need a new Pastor, or to add more flashy programs, or hire staff to attract younger people with many settling for all of the above in their desire to "fix" what is wrong. Most look to pragmatism or what might be working in other churches and strive to follow those leads by implementing change for the sake of change - change the name of the church, change the worship styles, change to ascetics of the facilities - and while all of those might offer short term solutions - they do not deal with the root cause of the problem. As long as a majority of church members or those in church leaders are not spiritually healthy in their own lives - the corporate church body will never find spiritual health. In our passage for today, the Apostle Paul not only diagnosis the root of the problem, but he also offers a prescription, and it is centered around the way church members treat one another and interact as the body. Join this message to discover the role that each individual church member plays in the overall spiritual health of a church and why that is so important. From Colossians 3: 10-14.
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In Colossians 3, the Apostle Paul declares that it is garbage day in the life of a Christian and all of us probably have some trash that needs taken out. We have already learned that once we become a Christian, we are a new creation, and our old self has been "crucified with Christ" and we are dead to sin - but we still have to live in these fleshly bodies and that opens the door for sin and temptation. Paul gives us a couple of lists of sins that all of us can struggle with and the danger they pose to our ability to worship, serve and grow spiritually. From Colossians 3:5-10.
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As the Apostle Paul moves from the deep theological truths (justification) and warnings of Chapter two of the Book of Colossians into the more practical application (Sanctification) of Chapter 3, he offers some insight into laying down the groundwork that must happen in a Christians life beforehand. In this message we look at the importance of developing a changed heart and mind that will allow us to align our behavior with who we now are as believers who have been "crucified with Christ" and raised with him in the power of the resurrection. What does Paul mean in Philippians 3 when he states that he wants " to know (experience) the power of Christ resurrection? Join us to find out. From Colossians 3:1-4
*** We were privileged and honored to have the Rev. Franklin Graham join us for this worship service and at the end of the message, he comes to a say a few words about our Operation Christmas Child showbox packing party that follows the service and pray over those participating. We have included that audio at the end of the message.
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Having identified two external threats to Christians and the church experiencing their fullness and freedoms in Christ back in Colossians 2:8, the Apostle Paul now sets his sights on exposing some internal threats. In this message we unpack how legalism, Christian mysticism, and religious virtue signaling are not only distortions of grace and diminish our understanding of what happened to us because of Christ death on the Cross - they also rob Christians of their joy, spiritual power and peace. They can also give us a false evaluation of our true relationship with God. From Colossians 2:16-23.
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In this message, the Apostle Paul continues his case for the sufficiency of Jesus Christ by explaining all that he accomplished on our behalf at the Cross. In his theologically powerful explanation, Paul outlines several life and eternity altering events that happened through Jesus Christ death on the cross and in doing so, gives us some insight into what it really means to be "spiritually alive". We examine this passage to add some application to how these powerful truths relate to our everyday Christian experience and trying to determine the difference between spiritual life and death. From Colossians 2:10-15.
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In our passage for today the Apostle Paul warns the church about the dangers of falling into the trap of "deceptive philosophies that are based on human tradition" and "basic principles of the world". We examine both of those danger in depth and how they "kidnap" the heart and minds of Christians and how that affects their Christian journey and ability to be obedient to God's call on their lives. We also look at the scriptural alternative to those two traps as found in the sufficiency and fullness of Jesus Christ and what that means for our identity, our peace, our purpose and our relationship with God and others. From Colossians 2:8-10.
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The Apostle Paul lays out some factors that contribute to a church finding spiritual health and experiencing growth. From Colossians 2:1-7.
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In Colossians 1:26-27 the Apostle Paul mentions something that was a mystery in the Old Testament that has been revealed to those who are now Christians. In using this type of language, he rebukes the gnostic false teachers who were pushing the idea that a relationship with Jesus was not enough for salvation but rather you also needed to have a "special knowledge", or "secret knowledge" revealed to you. Sadly, the spirit of this Gnosticism is still alive in the church today as some in the church clamor and are drawn to anything promising to reveal a "secret". Paul explains what the real and only "secret" of the New Testament is and how it effects all believers and in turn shows how the truth of this "secret" should motivate all Christians to service in the church. From Colossians 1:25-29.
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After confronting the false teachers in Colossae regarding the nature of who Jesus is in Chapter 1:15-17, the Apostle Paul turns his sights on dealing with what happened on the Cross. Using the words of an ancient hymn, Paul lays out the case for the completed works of Jesus Christ on the Cross and how that affects those who place their trust in his sacrifice. From Colossians 1:18-23.
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Everyone seems to have an opinion when asked the question, "Who is Jesus?". It was this very question that Jesus asked his disciples in Matthew 16:13, "Who do people say that I am" and then "Who do you say that I am?". This question puzzled the early church and still brings confusion and division in many churches today. The Apostle Paul brings some clarity to the confusion in the Colossian church in our passage for today and his answer should help clear up any confusion for us as well. It is a question we much each answer for ourselves and the wrong answer could have devastating consequences. From Colossians 1:15-17.
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Early in the Apostle Paul's letter to the church at Colossae he mentions that he prays for the church and its members and then describes how he prays for them and gives us a perfect example of how each one of us can pray for our family members, friends and other Christians. This is not only a great tool and template for how to pray for one another, but it also gives us a glimpse of what God expects from his followers as we live out and apply His word to our lives. From Colossians 1:9-14.
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One of the factors that can lead to a Christian growing complacent and comfortable in their relationship with God is our failure to remember just what it was that God did in us, for us, and through us when we accepted His offer of redemption through Jesus Christ. The Dangers of a complacent and comfortable church are self-evident all around us in what we see happening in the American church today. The same was true in the early church of Colossae. As the Apostle Paul introduces his letter to that church (and to its present-day counterpart) he couches his language in Thanksgiving as a rhetorical device to call them to remember all that Jesus had done for them and by doing so, allows them to reflect on the transformative power of Faith, Love , Hope and the Word of God to reignite their passion to grow and serve, as well as standing up to the false teachings in their midst. We would do well to heed his reminder today. From Colossians 1:3-8.
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An introduction to our new sermon series on the book of Colossians. We examine the author, date, context and history of the church and the reason why the letter was written. We also break down the introduction and the meaning and purpose behind it. From Colossians 1:1-2.
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In this discussion we address how the church is supposed to respond to the current LGBTQ agenda and how it affects our schools and children. What does the Bible say is our responsibility and how can we live that out on a day-to-day basis in a culture that is growing more hostile towards people of faith.
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How do we define successful parenting? What metrics do we use to help us gauge whether or not we have been successful in raising our children? It should not come as a surprise that as Christian parents those metrics might be a little different than what it has become in most American homes. Using Ephesians 6:1-4, this message looks at the dangers of reactive parenting and not developing a spirit-led plan that causes many parents to settle back on some dangerous defaults that can led to long term difficulties. Join us as we look at Paul's definition of "raising up a child in the way they should go".
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What does the Apostle Paul mean when he called the husband the head of the household in Ephesians 5:23? How do we apply that to the modern family and how does it fit into the idea of "mutual submission" in Ephesians 5:21? Sadly, this passage has been misunderstood to justify misogyny and abuse in the church and in the home while missing the beauty of a redeemed home where a husband practices biblical leadership while he loves his wife in the same manner that Christ leads and loves the church. From Ephesians 5:21-33.
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In this message we dive into Ephesians 5:21-24 and try to make some practical and spiritual sense out of the call for "wives to submit to their husbands". While many today might think of this recommendation as being "out of tough" with our modern senses, what Paul is suggesting here is actually foundational to a healthy spiritual marriage and offers an opportunity for both the husband and wife to bring their best to a relationship. This entire passage is a natural reflection of Christ redemptive and restorative work in salvation as Paul offers a glimpse into how the Holy Spirit working in us can restore God's original plans for marriage that was lost in the Garden of Eden.
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In this session we examine theological troubling issues that were founded in the days of the early church and continue into the modern era. With an overview of the Judaizer, Gnostics, Arianism and Modalism of the first three centuries to the German Biblical Higher Criticism, Modernism, and the rise of Liberal Christianity of the 19th and 20th centuries we can find commonality from all for the rise of today's Postmodern Theology and Relativism that has infiltrated the church. The division and destruction we are seeing in most mainline denominations as they deviated from Biblical authority and orthodoxy is not anything new and it serves as a warning to those individuals and churches trying to stand and uphold Biblical, evangelical, theology.
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In this message we examine the idea of spirit-led submission in all of our relationships and how that runs contradictory to the world's definition. We also examine what mutual submission looks like in a marriage. From Ephesians 5:15-22
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In this discussion, we examine some controversial passages from the New Testament about women in the church and try to discern what they meant at the time and how that relates to women in the church today.
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In this week we celebrate Mother's by hoping to redeem a mother from the New Testament who seems to get a bad rap. By examining her request before Jesus, we find some great lessons for all parents but especially mothers. From Matthew 20:20-28.
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In this session we examine how Christians are to respond to the abortion debate and what scripture says about the issue.
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This message examines how we can build a foundation for healthy marriages using scriptural principles and guidance. We discuss the stages of relationships and how we can rebuild and reestablish our marriages with Christ at the center. From Genesis 2:18-23, Ephesians 5:21-33.
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This week we examine what the bible does and doesn't say about the issue of alcohol. Does scripture teach that Christians should abstain completely and if not, what guidelines do we need to follow? What about "offending the weaker brother"? What about marijuana which the Bible doesn't seem to speak about at all? What does moderation even mean and look like? The real issue is remaining in "control" of our bodies and mind at all times and to allow the leading and conviction of the Holy Spirit for all issues, even those that might be permissible scripturally.
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The first session of our Sunday night study on "What we believe and Why" as this semester we will look at some of the "hot button" issues in our culture. We will also be discussing how we can engage others on these issues by using the Bible as our source of authority and truth.
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As the introduction to this short series on the Home, this message looks at the importance of making God and our relationship with God the central foundation of our homes - our marriages, raising our children and our interaction with family. We look at the Old Testament story of David's failure to bring the ark of the Covenant home to Jerusalem and what happened to the home of Obed Edom where he left it. From 2 Samuel 6:1-15
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Jude closes his letter with an interesting doxology that incorporates the security of the believer as one of the reasons that Christians should give worship, honor and praise to God. After attacking false teachers and teaching for a majority of the letter; why would Jude close with this very important promise to Christians? Join us as we examine the doctrine behind what is called the "Preservation of the Saints" or "soul security" and how it fits into the context of Jude's letter and why it is so important to the freedoms we experience in Jesus Christ. From Jude 24-25.
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In verse 20 of Jude's letter, the author returns to his original admonition from verse 3 for Christians to "Contend for the Faith" by now giving some suggestion for how can do it in a practical sense. We examine those suggestions as well as discuss how that fit into our greater assignment to follow the great commission. It is easy to be overwhelmed by what is happening to our nation and the changes in our culture before you ever address the false teaching and worldly philosophies that are creeping into the church; so, what are Christians to do? Is there any hope for change or can we make a difference? Join us to discover how Jude's advice is still relevant for us today. From Jude 20-23.
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In this Easter Message we examine the Angels question to the ladies who show up at Jesus's tomb to complete his burial, only to find the stone rolled away and the tomb empty. "Why do you search for the living among the dead?" Luke 24:1-8.
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This message is from the story of King David and his best friend Jonathon's son, Mephibosheth. As we start Holy week by celebrating communion, this story was told interspersed between the various elements of communion and has been connected together to make it one fluid teaching. From 2nd Samuel 9.
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In this message we examine Jude's prophecy from verses 17-19 about future false teachers in the church and draw a direct line to today's church. We examine and breakdown the history and influence of modernism, postmodernism, and cultural relativity on the American church and our society as a whole. We also examine the dangers of "progressive Chrsitianity" and how it has divided, diminished and declined the mainline denominations and its subtle reach into even the most theologically conservative churches. From Jude 17-19.
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In this message we examine how Jude draws a link between the false prophets of the Old Testament right through his current time straight toward the false teachers we find in the church today. We look at how false prophets were dealt with in the Old Testament as well as the two main groups of false teaching that had infiltrated the early New Testament church. That includes a short explanation of the Judiazer's and the Gnostic's and what they believed and taught and how it affected the early church. We also look at how most of the false teachings and worldly philosophies that we find today can trace their roots to these earlier beliefs. We also give a quick preview of "postmodernism" and "progressive Christianity" that we are seeing in the American church and the results. From Jude 14-19.
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Jude continues to describe the character and motivation of false leaders and how that affects the health and spiritual passion of the local church. In this message we break down verses 12-13 as well as discussing how people fall into error and the difference between error and heresy. We also take a quick look at the "Self-Help" gospel and how it is not only not Christian or Biblical but how in the end it really offers no help. Jude 12-13.
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In this message, Jude reminds us that what makes a false leader or teacher so destructive is not always bad theology or doctrine, many times it is their behavior and actions that corrupts their message. We also need to remember that a false leader is not just a Pastor or Preacher, it can be a deacon or elder, or a staff member, or anyone in the church who strives to attain power or control. Jude lays out several characteristics of these false leaders while explaining their motivation and in this message, we look at how these destructive motivations might show up in the local church. From Jude 8-11
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Some may ask why it should matter to me what other church leaders are teaching or other churches or denominations are teaching, as long as the church I attend and participate is standing on Biblical truth and doctrine. In our passage from Jude in this message we recognize that it matters to God and He takes false teaching and teachers very seriously and if it matters to God - it should matter to us. If we are all a part of the Universal Church and someone claiming to be a part of that church is teaching and supporting things that are contrary to scripture - it taints and diminishes the message of the Gospel for all of us and that should matter. Join us as we discuss why this issue of false teachers and false doctrine matters to God and should matter to us. From Jude 5-8.
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What does Jude mean when he calls Christians to contend for the faith when facing false teachers and false teaching? More importantly, what does he not mean? In this message we examine some practical aspects of standing up for the faith by learning how to "Test the Spirits" when it comes to teachings and events that might not seem within the bounds of our experience or knowledge. How can we know if something is actually "false" and something we need to stand against or just "different" than what we have ever experienced? Just because it is outside of our experience doesn't mean that it is false. By using two very recent events (the "He Gets Us" commercial series and the recent spiritual experiences taking place at Asbury college and Seminary) that are all the buzz in Christian social media circles, we use some Biblical tools to examine them and our response to them. From Jude 3-4, Mark 9:33-41, 1st John 3:1-3, 1st Thessalonians 5:19-20.
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In this message we examine the "why's" and "how's" of false teaching and false teachers - How can they continue to infiltrate the church some 2000's after the founding of the church and why is there a continued demand for these unbiblical teachings? We also discuss the Biblical concept of and "Apostate" or the idea that there may be many in the church who are religious or sincere but are not really Christians - even among those who claim to be Christian. We also look at the abuses of grace and the two extreme views - license and legalism and how they can corrupt the Gospel and our view of Jesus and God. From Jude 3-4.
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In this introduction to the Book of Jude, we examine the author, date, recipients and context of the letter as well as the similarities between the churches Jude is addressing and the Amercian Christian Church. We also discuss the importance of developing a Christian Worldview and the dangers and influence of the culturally syncretistic form of Christianity that has infiltrated the American church. This hodge podge of beliefs under the guise of Christianity has weakened the church, robbed it of its spiritual power and its spiritual influence. Join us for this important introduction to a timely and very relevant book for today's church. From Jude 1-4.
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We start our new series from the Book of Jude with a preview by looking at the warning Jesus gives from the Sermon on the Mount about the dangers of false teachers and false teachings within the church. Join us as we lay the groundwork for the warnings from Jude. From Mattthew 7:15-20
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In this message we examine our church purpose statement and how it motivates us and cast our church vision for the new year. We strive to be a "place to belong, a place to believe and a place to become" and in this message we explain what that means and what it might look like in the life of a healthy church. From Colossians 3:11-17
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In this message we examine the power of a changed perspective. The ability to look at circumstances, situations and opportunities through a new lens can not only allow us to make more informed decisions, it can also unlock our ability to see things through the view of scripture and God. We look at some ways that this ability can impact all of your decision making when it comes to your time, your priorities and your relationship with God. From Philippians 3:12-16
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For most of its history, Christianity and those who followed the teachings of Jesus were considered "dangerous" to kings, rulers and nations. When you look at the life and ministry of the Apostle Paul and all he endured and faced, it would be easy to describe him as a threat to the status quo and his life as dangerous. Yet in many parts of the world today, including North America, Christianity has become accommodating and comfortable, blending in with culture. Where is the dangerous faith today? Those willing to die to self, stand up for the downtrodden, speak up for absolute truth, blessing those who curse them and loving those who hate them. Where is the transformative power of the Word of God being proclaimed unapologetically? Where is the Holy Spirit being given the freedom to work in and through the followers of Jesus Christ to impact and change churches, neighborhood, cities and nation? Join us as we examine how Christianity lost its "dangerous" edge in our churches and our personal lives and how we might regain it by following two simple "resolutions" from Paul's personal example. From 2 Corinthians 11:21-29, 1 Corinthians 10:31-11:1.
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In this message we address a few goals that we can all set for the new year when it comes to our spiritual journey. Over time, many Christians find themselves in spiritual "ruts" and end up going through the motions and lose their passion in their worship, personal spiritual life and mission. We look at a warning from Jesus from Matthew 18:1-5 where he encourages all of his disciples to "change" and become like "these little children" if we want to experience the kingdom of Heaven here on earth. What does it mean to become like a child? Listen in for several hints at how we can regain the passion and wonder of a child when it comes to our spiritual lives.
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In this message we take a deep dive on the Christmas narratives of Luke 2 and discuss the actual birthday of Jesus, some common misconceptions about the scene at Jesus's birth and why the town of Bethlehem is so important. We also try to put Luke 2 in a historical and Biblical context along with absolving the poor misunderstood "innkeeper". All of these answers will hopefully help us make the well-known story of Christmas a much richer and deeper personal event. From Luke 2:1-7
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As we start the Advent season, we look at the message and ministry of John the Baptist to give us some help in preparing our hearts for Christmas. From Luke 3:1-8.
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Learning to be thankful does not come naturally to us - it is something that requires work and effort. This message looks at how the Apostle Paul learned to be thankful in any situation or circumstance and how we can apply his lessons to our own lives. From Philippians 4:10-13.
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As we continue to look at the barriers that can keep us from being truly thankful, this message looks at the importance of Forgiveness. We examine the parable of the ungrateful servant from Matthew 18 to find some clues on why forgiveness is so important and how unforgiveness can affect our spiritual growth and maturity. Matthew 18:21-35.
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As we lead into the Thanksgiving season, we will first look at a few issues that might rob us of our ability to be thankful and the first of those is found in today's message. While cancel culture seems to be everywhere from social media, the mainstream media and even politics; it is nothing new. We have always fallen for the desire to "cancel" those who disagree with us, or who have hurt us, or who we don't like - we just called it something else; revenge. In this message, we look at the power that Revenge has over our lives and how we can overcome that desire that desire through the power of the Holy Spirit. From 1st Samuel 24, Romans 12:17-21
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In this class we examine the Biblical idea of "Justification" and the role it played in the Protestant Reformation. We discuss how it can get confused with "Sanctification" and how that can lead to legalism in your relationship with God. We also discuss the freedom that comes from being fully justified by faith through God's grace and the effects it can have on your everyday walk of faith. We also discuss how your view of justification plays a major role in your idea of the security of your faith - or whether a Christian can "lose their salvation". Part 6 of 8 in our Fall Sunday night Bible Study Series, "What we believe and Why"
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As we lead into the Thanksgiving season, we will first look at a few issues that might rob us of our ability to be thankful and the first of those is found in today's message. While cancel culture seems to be everywhere from social media, the mainstream media and even politics; it is nothing new. We have always fallen for the desire to "cancel" those who disagree with us, or who have hurt us, or who we don't like - we just called it something else; revenge. In this message, we look at the power that Revenge has over our lives and how we can overcome that desire that desire through the power of the Holy Spirit. From 1st Samuel 24, Romans 12:17-21
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In this class we examine the Biblical idea of "Justification" and the role it played in the Protestant Reformation. We discuss how it can get confused with "Sanctification" and how that can lead to legalism in your relationship with God. We also discuss the freedom that comes from being fully justified by faith through God's grace and the effects it can have on your everyday walk of faith. We also discuss how your view of justification plays a major role in your idea of the security of your faith - or whether a Christian can "lose their salvation". Part 6 of 8 in our Fall Sunday night Bible Study Series, "What we believe and Why"
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In this message we look at the benediction found at the end of the Book of Hebrews and the prayer of blessing that the author prayed over the readers. In this short, concise and power prayer he reminds the readers and us of how blessed we are to be children of God and how that impacts our everyday lives. From Hebrews 13:20-21
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We examine what happens spiritually when a person dies and what the Bible teaches us about Heaven and Hell. What are they like, who goes there, what will we do? We also discuss the topics of annihilationism, soul sleep, purgatory, cremation along with answering the questions like, "will we know each other in heaven? Do we age? what about our pets? will there be marriage in heaven? and more".
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In this session we try to separate fact from fiction when it comes to Satan and discuss why it is so important for Christ followers to not only believe that he is real but also be warned and prepared to deal with his deception, lies and confusion.
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In this message we examine the relationship between a local church congregation and their Pastor. We discuss both the responsibility of the church body towards the Pastor and the Pastor towards the church body. What type of Spiritual Authority do Pastors have over congregations and where does it come from and how is it exercised? Are church members called to "obey and submit" to their Pastors? Along the way we discuss people who have been hurt by churches and abusive Pastors, bad Pastors and what is the main job of a Pastor. From Hebrews 13:17-19.
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In this lesson we debunk some of the most popular myths and misinformation about Angels and Demons like; Do people become angels when we die? Can a Christian be possessed by Demons? and Do I have a Guardian Angel? Using scripture as our guide, we seek to find a balance in how we approach these two interesting topics, especially as it relates to Spiritual Warfare.
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We start our new Fall 2022 "What We Believe and Why" series by looking at the Biblical story of Creation. Does the Biblical account contradict science, or can we find some agreement between the two "theories"? We examine all of the various theories about Creation and Evolution as they line up against scripture and look for compatibility. Does scripture teach that God created in 6 literal 24-hour day periods? What about the Dinosaurs? What about carbon dating?
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How important is our worship to our spiritual growth and maturity? What role does corporate worship with other believes play into that growth? Join us as we examine what Sacrificial Worship means and might look like lived out in our everyday lives and why it is so important. Can we actually be robbing God when we don't participate in the various elements of corporate worship? From Hebrews 13:15-16
How do we handle change? From the everyday changes that arise from the different seasons of our lives like getting marries, having kids, the teen years, empty nest, grandparents, retirement to change that might be forced upon us like a bad health report or losing a job or death of a loved one. All of us struggle with change - we find comfort in the routine and that comfort grows stronger the older we get so when change comes it can leave us unbalanced. This message looks at the various ways we respond to change and how those responses can affect our relationship with God and our spiritual health. Join us to discover how Jesus Christ can be keep us anchored during times of change and how that simple principle can change the direction of your life. From Hebrews 13:8-14.
How do we handle change? From the everyday changes that arise from the different seasons of our lives like getting marries, having kids, the teen years, empty nest, grandparents, retirement to change that might be forced upon us like a bad health report or losing a job or death of a loved one. All of us struggle with change - we find comfort in the routine and that comfort grows stronger the older we get so when change comes it can leave us unbalanced. This message looks at the various ways we respond to change and how those responses can affect our relationship with God and our spiritual health. Join us to discover how Jesus Christ can be keep us anchored during times of change and how that simple principle can change the direction of your life. From Hebrews 13:8-14.
As the writer of Hebrews closes out his letter, he offers up some closing thoughts with very practical application and expectations for those who call themselves Christians. While they may seem like "common sense" for some, as we find ourselves living in a culture where discernment, critical thinking and even common sense itself have become more of the exception than the rule - even in the American church - these principles are all the more vital for us to apply and live out in our everyday lives. From Hebrews 13:1-7.
The principles discussed include - Leading with Love, Honor and Respect Biblical Marriage, Find Contentment and Honor those who Honor God.
You hear people say it all the time when asked about their life and what they hope for when they might face God. It sounds something like, "I think I have lived a good life" or "I hope I have done enough" with the idea being that how we live in this life will determine whether we go to heaven. While the writer of Hebrews addresses that issue using theological truths all throughout the letter, here at the end of Hebrews 12 he bluntly and starkly confronts this false mentality. Using the metaphor of Mount Sinai and Mount Zion to represent legalism/the law verses grace alone, he clearly and boldly states that the means by which we choose to approach God (either through your own good works, or through grace and faith in Jesus Christ) is the same means by which God will judge you. This is a very relevant truth for the American church where a recent survey revealed that 35% of "pastors" do not believe that Jesus is the only path to salvation and that people can "go to heaven" based on their good works and effort. Hebrews 12:18-29.
As we continue to build on our study of Hebrews Chapter 12, We discover that there are certain areas that our "Spiritual Race" (Christian Life) should always use as guidepost and other areas that we must avoid at all costs. After the author gives the analogy comparing the life of a Christian to a marathon race that each individual must run, he encourages us how we might run it as smoothly and successfully as possible (vs 1-3). He then reminds us that it we find ourselves slowing down, detoured or quitting that God loves us enough to use difficult circumstances and situations in our lives to get us back on track (Spiritual discipline, vs 4-11). In this message, he is going to lay down some guides (not running alone, pursue peace, let Holiness be your guide) to help us navigate the race we are called to run, but also offer some warnings of a few things (bitterness, sexual immorality and Worldliness) we might encounter along the race that we need to avoid. From Hebrews 12:12-17.
Many Christians are confused by the concept or thought that God disciplines "his children" or those who follow Jesus Christ. We ask, "Why and How would he do that?" This message looks at God's discipline in the context of Hebrews 12:1-3 from the previous message (#41 A Race Worth Running) and why it is very important for Christians to not only recognize and accept God's discipline in their lives but to even learn count it and claim it as a promise of God's love for us. From Hebrews 12:4-11.
As the writer of Hebrews moves into more practical application in Hebrews Chapter 12, he starts by encouraging Christians to "run the race set before them" but what does that mean? In this message we look at why "running a race" is used as a metaphor for the Christian life by both the author of Hebrews and the Apostle Paul and what that might look like in our everyday lives. From Hebrews 12:1-3
It is easy to read Hebrews 11, the chapter described as the "Heroes of the Faith" as a lesson in how faith in God triumphs over everything but is that the whole story? The writer of Hebrews ends the chapter with a litany of very disturbing events that happened to those who placed their faith in God - tortured, flogged, stoned, even cut in half? This is not the sort of "feel good story" that many modern Christians seem to be looking for on Sundays, but it is a vital truth that we need to hear. Nowhere does the Bible promise that living the life of a Christ follower would be easy - matter of fact, it promises just the opposite. This message examines the promises of God that every Christian can claim in the midst of storms and difficulties and for when it seems like your story can't possibly have a "happy ending". From Hebrews 11:32-40
In this message we look at the story of "Rahab from Jericho" and how her destiny was changed at the place where God's Grace and Our Faith collide. From Hebrews 11:30-31. Joshua 2.
In this message we examine the life of Moses as mentioned in Hebrews 11. It goes without saying that if you were to put together a list of heroes of the faith from the Old Testament, Moses would surely be at the top of that list. He is considered by many to be the greatest man in the Old Testament, he received the 10 Commandments from God and established the law, he renewed the Covenant between God and the Israelites, he established the sacrificial worship system and oh yeah. he confronted the greatest empire of its day to rescue, set free the Hebrew people from slavery in Egypt. But these are not the examples of faith that we find in Hebrews 11, instead we have several glimpses from Moses's earlier life that set him on the path to becoming the Hero of Faith we know today. Why would the writer choose these examples and what are their significance? How do these examples help us answer some of life's most challenging questions for our own lives like; "Who am I?" "Why am I here?", "What do I value most?" and "Where am I going?" Join us to find out. From Hebrews 11:23-29.
In this message we discuss how we can leave a legacy of Faith for our children, grandchildren and all of those generations that follow. Using Abraham's example of faith when he was willing to sacrifice Isaac in obedience to God, we discuss what it might look like for everyday Christians to practice a sacrificial faith and how that type of faith develops our legacies. Are we willing to give to God whatever it is in our lives that are of most importance? our relationships? our marriage? our children? our finances? What about our hopes and dreams and expectations? From Hebrews 11:17-22
In this message we look at the struggles of faith that Abraham had on his way to becoming a "Hero of the Faith" listed in the roll call of faith in Hebrews 11. While most of us know about Abraham's great steps of faith like leaving his home in Ur to be obedient to follow God's call to the "promise land" or his willingness to sacrifice his "miracle" son on the Altar; but what is not so well known is all of the faith failures that he experienced along the way. It is by examining these failures that we can identify some of the same struggles that many of us have when it comes to being obedient to God and stepping out by faith in our own everyday lives. We look at things like fear, worry, impatience and selfishness and both how they can hinder our faith and what we can do to overcome them. From Hebrews 11: 8-12.
As our culture continues to dimmish the role that Fathers play in the home, our families, our churches and our nation is paying the price. In this message we look at the impact that the lack of engaged fathers is having on many of the difficulties we are facing in our nation and how the Bible gives us some answers on how to address them - starting in the home and with our fathers. This message is an encouragement to all of those fathers out there that are doing their best to lead, guide and grow their children in Christ centered homes. From Psalms 128.
In this message we examine some common misconceptions about what faith is and how Christian's communicate about their faith. Using language like "if only I had more faith" or "If only I had prayed harder" when God doesn't answer our prayers the way we wanted or would have liked is a dangerous misunderstanding of prayer, the nature of God and faith. We also look at the pattern revealed in Hebrews 11 mentions of Abel, Enoch and Noah for some practical ways we can mature, develop and grow in our faith. From Hebrews 11:4-7
Why is it important for Christians to practice, develop and mature in their faith in their day to day lives, and how do you do that? What might it look like in a practical sense? How is Biblical faith different from the everyday faith we practice as we go through life? Join us as we begin our look at Hebrews Chapter 11 and the "roll call of faith" by defining what Biblical faith is and how it can radically transform your daily lives. Hebrews 11:1-3
We have all experienced seasons in our life where everything seemed to be working against us, or nothing was going as planned or desired, and it felt like the whole world was coming down on you. It could be problems in your marriage, or work, or with family and friends. It could be health issues or physical difficulties. It might just be a change in the seasons of your life like having children, or an empty nest, or facing retirement. Or it might be due to making some Christ centered choices in your life that caused you to lose friendships or job opportunities. Whatever the reason, we have all been there - or are there. Maybe you can't put your finger on what it is or why - but things just are not "normal", and it is affecting you emotionally and spiritually. The Bible might call it a season of trials, test or tribulation; but I am choosing to call it as "Season of Suck" because that is the only modern word that fully encompasses the emotion and feelings this experience brings. If you have been there, or are there, or know someone walking this road - this message is for you. We examine why we go through it, how we can move forward and what God might be trying to teach us in the process. From Hebrews 10:32-39
In Hebrews 10:26-31, the author gives his fourth and final warning in the letter. Unlike the previous three warnings, this one is not directed at those who are already believers but rather at those who might "pretend" to be believers but have never truly surrendered their heart to Christ. This very dire and direct warning is particularly relevant to the American Church today and the Cultural Christianity that pervades its pews. It is aimed at those who have heard and even received the message of Jesus Christ forgiveness, love, grace and salvation yet continue to reject it choosing the routine and ritual of religion without the transformative power a changed heart brings. The passage identifies the characteristics of an "apostate" and describes why it is so dangerous. "It is a dreadful thing to fall into the hands of a Living God"
We examine the strange encounter between Jesus and a Canaanite woman from Matthew 15:21-28 to learn how determined and passionate a mother can be when it comes to protecting and helping her children.
Our final Sunday night session examines why it is so important to know what you believe and why by addressing how Christians should engage those around us in a culture that is hostile towards Christians and Christian values. We look at some of the most pressing current events (Roe v Wade, radical LGBTQ agenda, Attacks on personal and religious freedoms, social justice/Critical Race theory) that threaten Christian values and discuss why it is so important for Christians to get involved. We are called to be light in the darkness but many times the way we engage others builds more barriers than bridges and we become known more for what we are against than what we are for. Looking at 1 Peter 3:11-17, we discuss a strategy of "loving engagement" as opposed to the more popular choices of attacking everyone who disagrees with us or retreating into our Christian subcultures and hoping for the best.
In this session we examine the church, where it has come from and where it is going. How do you know if a church is sick, toxic or healthy? We look at the first church from Acts 2 to see what they did right and compare it to churches today to discover the future hope for the churches mission.
The writer of Hebrews follows up his encouragement from last week and the privilege we have to experience a face-to-face time of worship with God by addressing the importance of Christ followers coming together as a faith community for worship. Why is it so important that Christians find a connection to a local church and what are the benefits? Join us as we look at what it means to make a connection with a true faith community and how it benefits you, your family and your spiritual growth and maturity. From Hebrews 10:23-25
While we consider the Bible alone to be our source of authority and the foundation of what we believe and why - you cannot ignore the influence that church history plays in shaping our interpretations of those truths. In tonight's study we trace the history of our church, First Baptist Blowing Rock from the reformation in the 16th Century through the Great Awakenings into the spread of the Gospel into Western North Carolina in the late 18th Century and how each of those steps influenced who we are and why we believe what we do.
How do you define worship? Is it what we do on Sunday mornings when we sing songs? Is it the act of coming to Church? What about in our private life? When we read the Bible? Pray? The ability for us to worship God face to face was radically transformed through Jesus Christ sacrifice on the Cross and in today's message we examine how and what that means for our everyday lives. Even though Christians now have the ability to have an intimate and personal relationship with God through Jesus Christ, most never take advantage of it and miss out on one of the greatest privileges of the Christian experience. The writer of Hebrews proclaims an important promise to all Christ followers that not only can we now approach God at any time and any place - we can do so boldly and confident that He will always is faithful to meet us there. From Hebrews 10:19-23
In this Easter message we examine the powerful arguments comparing Jesus' sacrifice on the Cross to the Mosiac sacrificial system revealed in Hebrews 10:1-18 and how it relates to the Easter story and how we can make these truths a part of our everyday lives.
If we believe that every believer is a "priest" and can hear from God on their own (Priesthood of the Believer) and that each one of us is accountable to God for our own actions (Soul Competency) then we must also believe that every person should have the right/freedom and ability to choose to worship God - or not worship God. That means that we stand on the principle of Religious Freedom - no coercion, no government interference, no government sponsored religion. That is what the United States was founded on and is enshrined in the First Amendment of our Bill of Rights in our Constitution, but from its inception until today, it remains under attacks as people on both sides of the issue try to redefine it. Tonight's study will examine the underlying Biblical principles and scripture passages that define our religious freedom and how and why it has evolved.
After examining the differences between the sacrificial offerings of the Old Covenant High Priest and the sacrifice that Jesus Christ made on the Cross with his own blood; the writer of Hebrews ends Chapter 9 with a somber note on the role that Christ sacrifice plays in the lives of every person every born. In bringing some personal application to Chapter 9, the writer identifies 3 absolutes, or guarantees that every person will face. While the popular phrase warns us that the only thing you can count on are "death and taxes", the writer of Hebrews speaks very clearly that there are really 3 things every one of us can count on: The Certainty of Death, The reality of Judgement and the possibility of salvation. Join us to discover what that means for both Christians and non-Christians. From Hebrews 9:23-28
In this study we look at the doctrine of "Soul Competency" or the requirement that every person will one day stand before God and give and account for their lives and how that same doctrine or truth is lived out in the everyday Christian life. We discuss taking responsibility for our own actions and the role that plays in "repentance" and how our current culture is turning its back on this principle. We will also discuss "Soul Liberty/freedom" or the responsibilities that come from having the freedom to read and interpret scripture on our own under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Romans 14:1-13, 2nd Corinthians 5:10.
If you visit any Evangelical Church, it is highly likely that one of the worship songs or hymns that you will sing involves "blood" and specifically the blood of Jesus Christ. We not only sing about the blood, but we also talk about it, teach on it and even celebrate it and if you were not raised in church or with a religious background, it can be a little disconcerting. Why the emphasis on "blood"? In Hebrews chapter 9, the author gives us the answer along with one of the most deeply theological teachings on the power and purpose of Jesus Christ sacrifice on the Cross and the need for him to shed his blood. We will discover that from before the foundations of the world, and all through the Old Testament until Jesus death on the Cross, the shedding of blood would always be a requirement for mankind to receive God's forgiveness. "For without the shedding of blood, there can be no forgiveness"". From Hebrews 9:11-22
This week we examine another one of Martin Luther's "Sola's" from his 95 thesis that established the Protestant Reformation; Solus Cristus - or Christ Alone. This important tenet of our faith not only stands on the promise that Christ alone is the mediator / priest between God and Man, but it also effects our ecclesiology (how we do church). If Christ is the only priest, then what role do those who call themselves "priest" or "clergy" play in our spiritual lives?
In Chapter 9, the author of Hebrews continues to make the case for how the New Covenant that was established by Jesus Christ on the Cross, and of whom He alone is the High Priest, is far superior to the Old Covenant. He does so by pointing out the limitations of the Old Covenant when compared to the New Covenant. Most of the limitations are focused on the external and legalistic approach of that Covenant compared to the freedoms that come from a relationship with Jesus Christ.
Sadly, the lure and trap of legalism was not just for the early Hebrew converts, it remains as strong today in the modern church as it did then, and the results are just as devastating - especially as it relates to experiencing true grace, mercy and forgiveness. Legalism will never set a person free but will only bind them into a new set of "religious" rules, rituals and routines. From Hebrews 9:1-10.
In this message we examine why the Bible is considered our sole source of Biblical Authority and what that means. How is it our authority and what does it reveal? What happens when we use other sources of authority alongside the Bible, or diminish the authority of the Bible? How does that effect our everyday Christian journey and what we say we believe? 2 Timothy 3:10-16.
In this message we look at Hebrews Chapter 8 as the author brings his logical argument about the supremacy of Christ as our ultimate High Priest to bare on the Old Covenant. If Jesus is far superior in His infinite nature, sacrifice and ministry over the Levitical priesthood, where does that leave his New Covenant compared to the Old? We examine the old Mosiac Covenant with its rules, laws, and sacrifices and compare it to the New Covenant available under Jesus Christ. From Hebrews 8, Jeremiah 31:31-34
The first study from our new Sunday Night Bible Study Series "What We Believe and Why". If you are going to start a series on "What we Believe" it is probably good to answer the question, who is "we"? Since we are a Baptist church, we start by looking at some of the distinctives that Baptist Churches celebrate and what makes them different from other protestant faiths. We also discuss a little history and why we are called "Baptist". We will look into each of the 5 distinctives mentioned more in depth in the coming weeks.
We continue our study of Hebrews by reaching the end of Chapter 7 and the climax of the logical argument that the author of the book has been making comparing Jesus Christ as a superior Priest / High Priest over the Levitical Priesthood. He closes his argument by stepping up his case by proving that not only is Jesus the ultimate High Priest, but in reality, He is the Only Priest available for mankind. Due to his nature, his current position and his sacrifice; Christ alone is the ultimate and only available "bridge-builder" (Pontifex / Priest) between God and mankind. We spend some time discussing how these truths about "his nature" impact our daily relationship with God and what that looks like lived out. If Jesus is "infinite" or "eternal" as our High Priest and, even today, continues in that role as He sits at he right hand of the Father interceding / praying on our behalf; then that means his ministry to us as Priest is also infinite - His grace, His mercy, His love, even His forgiveness is infinite and limitless. From Hebrews 7:18-28; Key verses 24-26.
We continue our look at Hebrews Chapter 7 where the author has been comparing the Levitical Priest of the Old Testament to Jesus Christ as the High Priest of the new Covenant. In our passage today, the writer continues his logical argument using the rhetorical device of comparing and contrasting (if this is true - then so must this be true) by asking the question; If Jesus priesthood supersedes and makes obsolete the Levitical priesthood, then what do you do with the Law by which the priest uphold? We will strive to answer that question by examining the Old Testament Law and the reason it was established and its purpose and then wrestle with what that means for those living under the New Covenant. We will also look at the question, "How were people in the Old Testament" saved? If the law offers no means by which people could be redeemed or "saved", are the "heroes of the faith even saved and experiencing eternal life today? From Hebrews 7:11-19.
In Hebrews 7, we finally get a look at why the writer of Hebrews has been slipping in the name of Melchizedek and the "order of Melchizedek" in the last two Chapters. Who is this mysterious person that is only mentioned in 3 verses in Genesis 14 and one verse on Psalms 110 and what does he have to do with Jesus serving in the role of High Priest? Join us as we take a deep dive on the "Priesthood of Melchizedek" and discover why the author of Hebrews revives his story and why it is so important, not only to the first century Jewish readers of the letter - but also to the modern church and how we view our relationship with God through Jesus Christ. From Hebrews 7:1-10.
The writer of Hebrews follows up his dire warning from Hebrews 6:4-8, with a word of encouragement to those who might be struggling with doubt in verses 9-20. This message looks at this encouragement and how it relates to the assurances we can have, not only about our salvation, but about our personal relationship with God through Jesus Christ. We will also discuss the current trend of "Deconstructing your faith" and how it relates to these passages and what it means for a Christ follower and their everyday walk of faith. From Hebrews 6:9-20.
In this message we dive into one of the most controversial, misinterpreted and misunderstood passages in the New Testament - Hebrews 6:4-8. Can a follower of Jesus Christ, a Christian, get to a place in their spiritual journey where they can walk away from everything and actually "lose their salvation"? To understand and examine this passage, we must first define what it means to be a "Christian" or "Saved" according to scripture and then wrestle with how one might "lose" something that they played no role in "finding" or securing. This message is a little longer than normal and includes the introduction given earlier in the service to set the stage for our study.
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In this message we look at the 3rd of 5 warning passages in the Book of Hebrews and examine how they relate to one another and form a progressive pattern of disruption for a Christians relationship with God. How important is spiritual growth and what does that even mean or look like in our everyday lives? Why is it important and how can we know if we are growing or not? These are some of the questions we strive to answer in this important and very relevant sermon for today's American church and the Christian community at large. From Hebrews 6:1-3
This message examines the last three post nativity references from Matthew's gospel: the flight to Egypt, Herod's murdering of the babies in Bethlehem and the trek back to Israel and eventually Nazareth for Joseph, Mary and Jesus. Can these three incidents give us some insight into discovering and obeying God's will for our lives in 2022? Join us to find out. From Matthew 2:13-23.
In this message we examine the Maji from Matthew 2 and who they were, where they came from and what they were trying to accomplish as they visited the child they called the "King of the Jews". Why do we call them "Wise Men"? From Matthew 2:1-12.
This message looks at the difference between a spiritually immature Christian and a maturing Christian. By identifying several characteristics of what the Author of Hebrews calls "Milk Drinkers" or immature believers, we discuss how that relates to the American Church today and to the status of a majority of Christians. We also discuss the dangers that await those Christ followers who never move towards a more mature faith and a deeper walk with God. In our passage of Hebrews, we discover several hints as what it means and looks like in a practical sense, to be a mature or growing Christian. From Hebrews 5:11-14
In this message we discuss the importance of having a "teachable" spirit and a willingness to learn and how that affects your faith and spiritual growth. Most would say they are "teachable" or willing to learn, but reality is that as we grow older, we become entrenched in our comfort and "it has always worked in the past, so why change now" attitude. This can creep into our spiritual life with dire consequences. Join us as we discover how Jesus took learning and growing very seriously and how he prepared his heart to be open to growth. From Hebrews 5:1-10.
Prayer is one of the greatest gifts we have been given as followers of Christ - to have direct access to God to offer our prayers and petitions, our worries, our struggles, our questions is something that we should not take for granted; but we do. When having to make a difficult decision, or facing struggles and temptation; many Christians will seek advice, answers and comfort from everywhere and anywhere and then when those people, places and things don't bring the peace we need, or the answers we seek - we reluctantly turn to God. For whatever reason, God seems to be our last resort when He should be our first! The writer of Hebrews makes a case that their is no one better than Jesus Christ to turn to in those times of trials and struggles because He relates to our weakness and temptations far more than anyone else in our lives. Listen to discover why Jesus should always be our first option in any and all circumstances. From Hebrews 4:14-16
In this message we examine the role that the "Word of God" plays in helping Christ followers empower and unlock the faith that allows them to experience "rest" or the "abundant and full" like that Jesus spoke of in John 10:10. We look at the characteristics of the Word of God described in Hebrews 4:12-13 and unpack how each one of them can be experienced in a practical way. Sermon 13 of the series and it is recommended you listen to the two previous sermons to gain the context for some of the term like "rest" used in this powerful passage. From Hebrews 4:11-13
In John 10:10 Jesus declares that He came that we might have life and life more abundantly (Full); and while most Christians are excited about the "new life" that comes from being redeemed and forgiven, they never move into the "abundance" that Christ offers. In Hebrews 4, the writer uses the idea of "rest" to explain the joy, peace, contentment, blessings and spiritual power that comes from "experiencing and living the abundant life" that Jesus promises. He also uses the wilderness wanderings of the faithless Israelites who never got to experience the "rest" of the promise land to those Christ followers who never move beyond redemption and miss out on the greatest aspect of being a Christian in this life. Join us as we examine why so many Christians are missing out on this "rest" and the role faith plays in the process. From Hebrews 4:1-11.
In this message we examine the importance of disciplining ourselves to encourage and lift up other Christ Followers and why that is so important to our own faith and mental attitude. In Hebrews 3:12-14, in the midst of warning about allowing our hearts to grow hardened to God's word and direction, He stresses that being an encourager is one of the prescriptions to that condition. He does not suggest, hope or even encourage us to be more encouraging to those around us; he commands it. What does he mean by "encouragers"? Why is it so important and if we are commanded to do it - how? Join us as we discuss the role that encouragers play in each of our lives and how we can fit into that role for others. From Hebrews 3:12-14. Harvest Day Sunday Message.
In this message we examine the second warning section from the Book of Hebrews found in Hebrews 2:7-19 and the idea of a "hardened heart". What is a hardened heart, and can it happen to Christians? Join us as we discuss this long ago warning that might be more relevant today than it was to the original listener in the 1st Century.
In this message we examine the encouragement and warning from Hebrews chapter 3 about not taking our salvation and Jesus Christ for granted. We also look at how Jesus compares to Moses in verses 2-6 of Chapter 3; but the main discussion point is found in the idea of "House" or "home" - a word that is used 7 times in the first six verses of Chapter 3. By examining the question of where does God live, or where is God's house; we look at all the places that God has dwelt throughout Biblical history and what it means in Hebrews 3:6 that God now dwells in the house that Jesus built.
In the past 19 months, our nation and the world has been gripped by a worldwide Pandemic with the Coronavirus and it has affected every area of our lives - including the church and the faith of many Christ followers. While we would not like to admit it, or maybe we prefer to be in denial, but fear has taken hold of our lives and for many, it has been given a place of prominence in our hearts and minds. This fear, spurred on by agenda driven media storm, has effected our decision making, our peace and our faith. In Hebrews 2:14-15, the author reminds us that when Jesus Christ died on the Cross He not only conquered death, but He also defeated the slavery to fear that once consumed our lives. If we believe that to be true - then why are so many Christ Followers, freely and welcomingly - inviting this same defeated fear back into our lives? Why are we giving it the place of prominence reserved for the Holy Spirit? Join us as we examine how Fear can diminish our faith, destroy our relationship with God, and deter us from becoming who God has called and redeemed us to be. From Hebrews 2:14-15
There is nothing that any of us will ever face or ever have to deal with that Jesus Christ can not relate to' He Has Been There. This message examines the "humanity" and the "person" of Jesus Christ from Hebrews 2:9-18 and relates how He has blazed a trail that all of us can follow and what that means for our everyday lives.
Most of us lose sight of all that was lost when sin was introduced in the Garden of Eden. We talk about the introduction of death and the power of sin, as well we should - but so much more was lost that effects us on a daily basis -including our "identity". We lost the ability to understand who we were truly created to be but that doesn't stop us from trying to find our identity (and self-worth) in any number of fleeting things. This message helps us to not only understand what was lost - but also, how we can regain it and what that means for our struggle with identity and self esteem. We also examine what the salvation found in Jesus Christ means for regaining our destiny - both now and in our eternal future! From Hebrews 2:3-9
In this message we examine the Author of Hebrews warning to all Christians about the dangers of Spiritual Drifting. All Christ followers struggle with "drifting" in our personal relationship with Jesus and when we "drift" it is never towards a closer relationship or deeper faith; it is always in the opposite direction. While "spiritual drifting is never intentional, the key is recognizing the warning signs and putting a stop to it before you end up in a place you never intended to be and that grows more difficult to return from every day. This message examines the warning signs of neglect, complacency, or apathy and how your "spiritual drifting" can not only hinder your spiritual growth; it can cause generational drift for your children and children's children. From Hebrews 4:1-4.
In this message we examine how Jesus Christ compares to the Angels from Hebrews 4:4-14.
In this message we take on all of the misconceptions and false ideas about Angels compared to what the scripture tells us. We look at four of the greatest misconceptions and compare them to what we know from scripture about who Angels are and what their role is in the Kingdom of God. Do we have guardian angels? Can we "see" angels? Can humans become angels? Why should we care? Join us to discover some surprising truths about how angels are involved in our everyday lives. From Hebrews 1:4,14
In this message we examine the first 3 verses from Hebrews chapter one where the Author lays out 5 deeply profound truths about the person and work of Jesus Christ. Each of these statements will form the basis for the rest of the Book as the writer will use Jewish history, religious practices and customs found in the Old Testament to show how Jesus is "superior" to anyone and anything that came before when it comes to developing a relationship with God. In this mornings message we look at these 5 truths to seek to answer the question that Jesus posed to his disciples in Matthew 16; "Who do you say that I am?". From Hebrews 1:1-3
An introduction to our new sermon series from the Book of Hebrews. We examine the context, authorship, audience and purpose of the letter as well as looking at the role the Old Testament scriptures come into play throughout the book. Hebrews 1:1-3
Everyone deals with exhaustion of one kind or another; mental, physical, emotional and even spiritual. But what we fail to realize is that when we become exhausted or weary in one area it can dramatically affect one of the other areas. In those seasons what was once weariness can become "burnout" and then rapidly move to "breakdown" with lasting consequences. While much is written about dealing with and overcoming emotional, physical and mental exhaustion; many Christians fail to realize that spiritual exhaustion is a very real thing and can have a lasting impact on your prayer and devotional life, your worship, your service and ministry and even on your intimate relationship with God. Join us as we examine the Apostle Paul's warning to the churches in Galatia about overcoming spiritual exhaustion and how it relates to our own personal journeys. From Galatians 6: 9-10
We look at James 1:2-4 and discuss why God not only allows us to face the trials, struggles and difficulties of this life - He uses them to grow and strengthen our faith. Listen in to learn how to "Consider it / Count it a Joy" when you face the worst that life can throw at you.
In this message we examine some characteristics of a healthy church and the benefits and protections of having a strong spiritual immunity. Every metric seems to point to the fact that The Church in North America is sick and getting sicker and instead of doing the hard work of building up our Spiritual Immunity and health, we choose "quick fixes" like new programs and pragmatism (what seems to work down the road). We compare our nations response to the Coronavirus to how the church seems to be dealing with its spiritual sickness, we suggest that one of the strongest areas of immunity is found when the church body - the members - the people in the pew - take ownership of the ministries of the church and every person gets involved in serving. We are facing a spiritual pandemic as more and more Christians become spectators instead of servants. From Ephesians 4:11-16.
In a celebration of Father's, we examine the Jewish Patriarch Jacob/Israel's final blessing on his sons from Genesis 49. We discuss the various ways that both biological and spiritual father's, grandfather's and other male spiritual role models can pass along and be a blessing to their children, grandchildren and the other children in their faith community. Key Verse; Genesis 49:28
In our final message from the Book of Esther we look at Chapter 10 and review some of the most important lessons from our Series. Esther is a great example of what it looks like to stand up for your beliefs and values in a hostile and pagan culture and in this final message, we discuss 5 steps or responsibilities that the followers of Jesus Christ can take to overcome and be victorious in a post-Christian, morally relative society. From Esther 10
This morning we examine the difference between Esther chapter 8 and Esther chapter 9 and the celebration of hope we find at the end of Chapter 8 and the assurance of victory experienced in Chapter 9. Most Christians love to celebrate the proclamations and promises of God on Sunday and then wonder why they are not experiencing those same promises during the week in their personal lives. This message suggest that it is because we are stuck between chapters 8 and 9. Even though the victory has been proclaimed, we don't actually experience it until we fight the battle. The bridge between the chapters is obedience. Join us to learn the role obedience plays in releasing the power of God's promises in our lives. From Esther 9, 2nd Kings 5.
We pick up our story in Esther Chapter 8, from where we ended last week with the incredible turn of events as Haman is killed on the gallows he had erected for Mordecai and Esther is given Haman's estates. The problem is that even with Haman gone, the death edict he had put in place ordering the extermination of the Jewish people still stood. In the Persian empire, once a law had been authorized by the king, it could not be rescinded. So once again Esther must intercede on behalf of those facing a certain death. Listen in to discover what happens and how it relates to us today.
In this message we look at Esther chapter 7 and how Esther and Mordecai dealt with their enemy, Haman, and some practical lessons we might learn on gaining victory when engaging our own enemies. We examine three simple truths that can help all of us when we encounter people in our lives who might be considered enemies.
This messages looks at the law of "reaping and sowing" and how it fits into our spiritual growth and battles. We look at the example from Esther 6, with the difference between Mordecai and Haman and how they lived their lives and the results of those choices. From Esther 6; Galatians 6:7-9.
In this message we examine the importance of "timing" when it comes to obedience to God and doing what is right. From Esther 5, we examine how God used a time of prayer and fasting to prepare Esther for her task and gave her the boldness and faith to do what she once considered impossible. We also discuss what Christians are supposed to do while they wait for God's perfect timing and how waiting is a part of the process of obedience.
After making the decision to approach her husband, King Xerxes as a means of figuring out a way to remove the death edict (extermination order) that had been placed on the Jewish people under Persian rule; Esther ask for all of the Jewish people in Susa (Persian Capitol) to join her in a three day time of fasting and prayer. Why would she ask for fasting and prayer after she had made the decision to approach the King? What did she hope to accomplish by fasting? We take this interlude to spend a week looking at the spiritual discipline of "Fasting" and what it means. Who is supposed to fast and why? Is it important for Christians today? Join us as we examine "spiritual fasting" and the power and potential it offers to all Christians. From Esther 4:15-17; Matthew 6:16-17; Isaiah 58:1-12
This message examines Esther chapter 4 and the potential that one person has to change the world. What made Esther special or different that God would use her to save the Jewish people under a death sentence from the Persian Empire. Does God still use people like that today? How? Join us as we discover Mordecai's message to Esther that moved her from a place of fear to one of abandonment and faith. From Esther 4:12-17
We examine the influence and role that Mordecai played in spurring Esther to action when faced with a death sentence for the Israelites in Esther chapter 4. We also discuss the power and responsibility of influence that each one of us have in the lives of people we encounter on a daily basis. We examine Mordecai's behavior and actions to learn some lessons for how we can make sure we are the right kind of influence on those in our lives. From Esther 4:1-11.
For many of us, this past year of dealing with the Coronavirus Covid 19 has felt like wandering through a graveyard. Surrounded by fear mongering and a news media who likes to emphasize the worst case scenarios filled with hyperbole; it has felt like a long dark night of isolation, unknown and confusion. Those are the same feelings that Jesus's followers must have felt after a long, dark weekend following the crucifixion and it surrounds them as they get up early to head back to the tomb to finish the death preparation from Friday night. What they encountered when they arrived not only changed their mood and outlook - it changed everything. Instead of death, they found an empty tomb and a resurrected Savior. What better time than Easter when we celebrate Jesus's victory over sin, the grave and death for us to stop living in the graveyard? It is time for The Church, and Christians to leave the graveyard of 2020 and start living out the life giving power of the the Resurrection! From Luke 24:1-12.
This Palm Sunday message examines the history, meanings and power of Passover and how it relates to our story from Esther. We look at the sentence of Death facing the Israelites in bondage in Egypt, the Jewish people in Persia under Xerxes and Haman and the entire human race under the curse of sin, and examine how each death sentence was and can be avoided. We also take a look at the underlying "typology" between the Passover lamb and Jesus Christ and what that means for a condemned mankind. From Esther 3:10-15, Exodus 12, Colossians 2:13-15.
When living in a culture or society that is hostile towards your beliefs and values, how are we supposed to respond? Mordecai and Esther find themselves trying to live our their Jewish faith in a hostile and pagan Persian society and are faced with several temptations and responses that are very similar to what Christians might face living in a "post-Christian" culture. In this message we examine the 4 wrong responses towards a hostile culture and the consequences of those choices. Desperation, Isolation, Confrontation or Assimilation may all seem like viable choices but are not in line with scripture and will always lead to bigger problems. We also examine the role that prejudice plays in revealing evil and hatred in our society. From Esther 3:1-9
As we continue to examine the "Providence of God" in the book of Esther, we look at the question of freewill and choice as it relates to God's sovereignty. We examine the role of a persons character and integrity when it comes to our decision making process and what role our relationship with God plays into those decisions. If God is in total control of our lives, our circumstances and situations we face - how much choice or control do I have? From Esther 2: 19-23
We meet our second character from the book of Esther in this message - Xerxes' Queen - Vashti. In the middle of a drunken stupor, the King makes a bad choice and gets even worse counsel from his drunken friends that allows a private issue to become public policy. By looking at these choices, we discover how God is at work - using the most unlikely of people and the strangest circumstances to bring about His will. We also discuss the foundations of a healthy marriage and the greatest area of conflict and how to avoid it. With a quick discussion on alcohol, addiction and drunkeness for good measure. Join us as we walk out the incredible story of Esther and how to stand up for Godly principles in a Godless culture. From Esther 1:9-22
We start our sermon series on the Old Testament, Book of Esther by examining the historical context of the book as well as its relevance to our current culture and society. Join us for an overview of Esther and a discussion on how the seemingly absence of the mention of God in the story , reveals some important Biblical truth and promises for The Church and any individual Christian trying to maintain Biblical principles and beliefs in a godless culture. From Esther 1:1-8
A message for those who are going through struggles, grieving or facing difficult decisions. A reminder for a follower of Christ, that we will face difficulties in this life - but we will never face them alone. From Mark 4:35-41.
This message takes a look at the current culture and spiritual atmosphere in the United States and looks forward to what Christians and the church might expect moving ahead. Will the current compartmentalized, compromised, cultural and comfortable Christianity that is so prevalent in America today flourish or flounder when faced with opposition or even persecution? Was Christianity ever meant to be "comfortable" in the first place? We examine the Apostle Paul and the early churches example as well as the words of Jesus concerning what it might actually look like to live out his call to "Love the Lord your God with all you heart, soul, mind and strength and to love your neighbor as yourself". In a day where so many want to redefine Christianity into some type of self-help religious parachute - Jesus' words warn that we had better count the cost because to truly follow him will cost everything. When we look around our nation today, it is easy for Christ followers to be discouraged, but have no fear, the church is right where God wants her to be - the real question is will Christians repent and submit to the power of the Holy Spirit and get out of the way to allow Him to Shine? From Luke 14:25-35.
This message from December 27th, 2020 is the final message in our Christmas Series examining popular Christmas Carols and what we can learn from comparing them to the actual Biblical birth accounts of Jesus Christ. This messages examines the popular carol, "O Holy Night" and the visit by the Magi or what is called "The Epiphany".
A look at how the church has dealt with mental health issues like depression and anxiety in the past and how we must do better and find a Biblical approach that also will encourage medical and spiritual solutions. The numbers on those who are currently struggling with Mental health issues, especially depression as a result of the isolation and quarantine from the Coronavirus, are staggering and will only get worse. The church and Christians must come up with a better answer than "just pray more" or "have more faith" to a very complicated and debilitating struggle. This message from January 10th, 2021 tries to find a common ground and offer Biblical hope to anyone who struggles with everything from "being depressed" to "clinical depression".
This message from January 3rd 2021 examines the difference between "self-help" and spirit led as we look at the New Year and how we can rediscover the power and passion of our faith and relationship with Jesus Christ. We discuss how we have allowed the "incredible to become ordinary" when it comes to our faith journey and everyday relationship with God and by doing so; how it effects every area of our lives. From Matthew 18:1-5
This message examines the Christmas Carol "What Child Is This?" by William Chatterton Dix. The title of the Hymn holds one of the most important questions of the Bible as well as a significant questions for our culture and society at large. This message strives to suggest a Biblical answer to that question by looking at the experience of the "Magi from the East" who visited Jesus after his birth. From Matthew 2:1-12
We start this new Christmas series by examining some of the most popular Christmas songs and Carols. We are not only looking at the history and stories behind the songs; we will also examine the scriptural significance of the words that we sing every year and what they mean to our personal relationship with God. This week we look at "Come thou Long Expectant Jesus" by Charles Wesley. From Galatians 4:4-7
This final message in our Revival series picks up where last week's message from Isaiah 6 leaves off. Throughout the Bible, God's children, are called to seek him with the promise that when we do - we will find. But what happens when we seek Him, or even call out to him and we can't find Him or we don't get a response? Most Christians have faced seasons in their lives where God seemed distant even though they continued to search and seek. This mornings message strives to discover some answers to that question and situation by examining Job's experience from the Book of Job in the Old Testament. Join us to discover the incredible promise that silence can bring. From Job 23.
This message looks at what it means to "seek after God". We examine Isaiah's experience from Isaiah 6 and how it might relate to our desire to "experience God's presence in our own lives" and what the results of that experience might be. From our Revive Us Again series.
This message examines the strange vision given to the Prophet Ezekiel in the valley of Dry Bones and how it might relate to Revival and hope for the American Church. From Ezekiel 37:1-14
A look at the Revival and Reformation that took place under King Josiah from 2nd Chronicles 34-35. Drawing parallels between what was happening in Judah before Josiah arrived and where we are today as the church in America.
This message examines the concept of Reformation by looking at some historical and biblical examples. We explore how Revival and Reformation work hand in hand to bring about a life changing "awakening". From Jeremiah 18:1-6.
We start a new series focused on the need for Revival in our own hearts, in our churches and communities and in our nation. This introduction looks at the History of Revivals and Awakenings as well as some Biblical examples of Revival. From Jonah 3
We wrap up this sermon series by looking at some practical steps we can take to help build bridges in our personal lives and personal relationships. From Romans 14:13-21.
This message deal with applying the truth we have been discussing throughout this series to our everyday lives in a practical manner.
Conflict is not a good or bad thing - it is a reality of life that all of us face. It is how we respond and react to conflict and division that determines if it is constructive or destructive. Sadly we have been taught and conditioned to avoid conflict for the sake of "peace" which in reality is not true peace and has led us to the incredible division we are facing in our nation today. Join us as we discover how we can use conflict to build bridges in our relationships instead of barriers. From James 1:29-20
When building a bridge one of the first and most important factors is determining the condition of the ground in which you are to build. Without a firm foundation, the strength and positioning of the bridge will always be compromised and the same is true with building spiritual bridges. In the introduction to this series we were reminded that one of our main responsibilities as followers of Jesus Christ is to strive to be peacemakers - in the reconciliation business. This week we begin to unpack what it means to be a "peacemaker" by examining the first principle for learning to build bridge that allows the good news and gospel to flow to a hurting and troubled world. We examine James 1:19-20 in context, to discover that one way to keep us from unintentionally building barriers is to "invite the Holy Spirit" into the planning and conversation before we say or do anything. Join us to find out what James is getting at by encouraging us to be "quick to listen and slow to speak".
We start a new mini-sermon series entitled "Building Bridges Not Barriers" that will examine our responsibilities as followers of Christ in light of all the division and conflict going on in our Nation right now. From riots in our streets, division in our politics and even conflicts in our local churches regarding dealing with the Coronavirus - how are Christians to respond? Join us for this 4 weeks series that begins by asking the question, "Where are the Peacemakers?". The New Testament is very clear that Jesus Christ came to reconcile or make peace between God and Man that sin corrupted but it is also just as clear that those of us who have been "reconciled" with God are to be agents of peace ourselves. What does that mean and what might it look like in light of all that is going on around us? Join us to discuss and discover the Bible's counter cultural response. From Matthew 5:9.
This message examines the three short parables (groom, patches, wineskins) from Luke 5:29-39 in light of all that is going on in our culture concerning the Covid 19 Coronavirus. Using the popular buzzword "new normal" as a jumping off point we examine what Jesus had to say about dealing with change.
We examine Jesus's "Parable of the Wedding Feast" from Mathews gospel found in Matthew 22:1-14.
We examine how the Parable of the 10 Bridesmaids from Matthew 25:1-13 relates to many of the current issues facing our nation and churches.
We continue examining the "Parable of the Lost Son" or "prodigal" son this week with the focus being on the two brothers/sons and their response and attitude towards their father. From Luke 15:25-31
We take a look at the parable of the Prodigal Son or Lost Son from a different angle and instead of focusing on the son, we focus on the father. So many Christians have a corrupted, confused or even unbiblical view of God and it effects everything they do - the way they pray, serve, respond, worship and live. This morning we take a look at some very important characteristics of the nature of God that Jesus demonstrated through this well known parable. From Luke 15:11-24. (Next week we will compare and contrast the two brothers mentioned in this parable)
If you would like to watch a video of the entire worship service - you can go to
http://www.firstbaptistblowingrock.com/about-us/Watch-Live
or
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TdbAsy3YUdo
In the midst of riots, protest and a pandemic; how are we supposed to celebrate July 4th and what should the Christians response be to all we see happening around us? We look at Jesus' words from the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 5:14-16 as a challenge to followers of Jesus Christ and the Church in times such as these. We will also look at how fragile the freedoms we celebrate this Independence weekend actually are and the dangers we face for our Religious Freedoms. We also address some of the popular cultural and society movements like Socialism, Marxism, Social Justice and Black Lives Matter and how they line up according to Biblical principles. This message is a warning to the American Church to wake up before it is too late!
We wrap up our sermon series from 1st Corinthians by examining Paul's final challenge to the church and individual believers as they strive to live out the lessons and warnings he has discussed in this important letter. While very relevant in the 1st century in Corinthian, his words and call remain relevant in the 21st century for a church that is struggling to survive in a changing culture and in an ever growing hostile society. From 1st Corinthians 16:13-14.
How do we know when God is opening a door or providing us an opportunity to serve Him? How do we know when an opportunity is from God? What can we expect when we step out in obedience and go "through the open door"? In his closing words to the Corinthian Church, the Apostle Paul gives us some insight into how he determines when an opportunity to minister or serve is from God and what we can expect by "walking through that door". From 1st Corinthians 16:5-12.
As the Apostle Paul draws his 1st Letter to the Church at Corinth to a close in 1st Corinthians 16, he gives them some clear and direct instructions for collecting an offering for the churches in Jerusalem. Through his instructions, we can gain some insight into the "how's", "why's" and importance of including the taking up of an offering each week as a part of our personal and corporate worship. Join us as we tear down some myths and misconceptions as well as addressing some of the unbiblical abuses taking place in relation to our personal giving in the church. From 1st Corinthians 16:1-4.
As we continue to worship together online during this age of social distancing and stay at home orders; one of the casualties has been our willingness and ability to sing in worship. Like us here at First Baptist, most churches are broadcasting their entire worship services which includes the "singing" portion but if we are to be honest - joining in with the singing from home is not that same as it is in person in the corporate setting. It is awkward, it is uncomfortable and it requires more effort and we tell ourselves that it doesn't really make a difference - but does it? This message examines the importance of singing worship songs and hymns in the life of a Christ follower and how our lack of singing might have a direct effect on some of the struggles we are facing right now. Join us to discover why singing is so important - especially in light of all we are currently facing. From Psalms 100.
To watch the entire service; go to firstbaptistblowingrock.com
The past two weeks we have examines 1st Corinthians 15:58 and the call for Christians to "Stand". This morning we follow that up by discussing the importance of "where we stand" and "what we stand for" and how that relates to the current circumstances in our world with the Coronavirus pandemic. We examine Luke 13:1-8 and the "Parable of the Fig Tree".
We continue to examine 1st Corinthians 15:58 as we strive to answer the question "What now?" As it relates to the powerful truth of the physical resurrection of Jesus Christ and the promise of a resurrection from the dead for Christ followers; but also as it relates to our current situation with the Coronavirus. From 1st Corinthians 15:54-58.
All of us have had "what now?" moments; those moments in our lives where we have planned or prepared for an event or activity for such a long time or with such intensity that once it is over, we have a sense of confusion. Graduations, new jobs, marriages, the birth of a child - all moments of celebration that once passed leave us feeling somewhat lost. That had to be what many of those early Christians felt after the resurrection and ascension of Jesus Christ; "what now?" "where do we go from here?". You get some of that feeling by reading the Apostle Paul's incredible teaching on the resurrection from 1st Corinthians 15 and how he ends the Chapter.
We are also sensing that same feeling in our culture as we deal with what seems to be the slow progression back to "normal" as we move into a new season of dealing with this Coronavirus Covid-19. After 2 months of being sequestered in our homes, separated from work, school, church, friends and family - what now? How do we transition back into a "new normal"? This morning we introduce some answers for where Paul felt the church and followers of Christ should move in light of the power of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ and the truth about our own resurrection from the dead and those same suggestions might also help us in where we go after this crazy Spring of 2020. This is part 1 of a 2 part sermon from 1st Corinthians 15:58.
If you were to ask the questions, "What happens to us when we Die" to a group of people, the variety of answers might surprise you. Even in the Christian community, the question seems to bring our some crazy beliefs. I have heard everything from "becoming angels" or "ghost" to resurrection reincarnation. How did so many get so confused? Do we project what we "hope" might happen, or does it come from trying to offer comfort to those who are dealing with death? Maybe it arises because there are some things that the Bible calls a "mystery" and we don't do mysteries well, so we fill in the blanks ourselves. Join us to discover what the Bible actually says and why it is important for Christians to understand the truth about our own resurrections. From 1st Corinthians 15:35-49
Easter Service for 2020. We examine what we might have considered normal in light of the COVID 19 virus. From 1st Corinthians 15:19-20
A Palms Sunday Message on the relevance of the Cross of Jesus Christ on our everyday lives. We know the stories of Easter and Holy Week; we can describe what happened and how it happened - but how does that effect our everyday lives? We examine Colossians 2:8-15 as the Apostle Paul explains just how powerful and far reaching the Cross can be.
Last week we examined 1st Corinthians 15:33-34 where the Apostle Paul uses a popular saying of his day, "Bad Company Corrupts Good Character" to warn the early Corinthians Christians about the danger of allowing the wrong people into our lives, He warns of how they can pull us away from our relationship with God and bring doubts into our lives. This morning's message takes that popular quote and warning and turns it 180 degrees and ask the question - if bad company can corrupt us, what effect can "good company" have on our lives? We examine what true friendship looks like using the example from the Old Testament of David and Jonathon and explain how true friendship can influence every area of our lives, including our Christian faith. From 1st Samuel 18:1-4, 19, 20.
We examine the short little warning that the Apostle Paul gives in verses 33-34 from his great theological teaching on the resurrection of Jesus Christ from 1st Corinthians 15. He uses a popular quote from his day "Bad Company corrupts Good Character" to warn of the dangers of allowing the wrong people to have an influence on our lives. We unpack this saying and discover how it relates to the current day and the dangers of choosing the wrong friends, or wrong peer group and how it can effect your spiritual walk and witness.
This message examines how Christians should respond to the recent Coronavirus Pandemic. What does the Bible say about times like the ones we are facing and what can we learn from it. John 16:33, Matthew 7:24-27,Mark 4:35-41.
You can watch a video of this entire worship service at http://firstbaptistblowingrock.com
We constantly hear about all of the threats facing each one of us; global warming, overpopulation, coronavirus, terrorism - and we live in a world of fear. Our media, whose job was once to educate and inform, spends all of their time feeding the hyperbole, fostering fear and trying to place blame. Like the little boy who cried wolf; when do we take any of it seriously? Why do we allow ourselves to be placed into bondage by fear over things that we have no control over? The truth is that most of the issues we spend so much time worrying and stressing over will never even effect us, or they will be handled and dealt with. But there is a threat that none of us will escape and while some should not be afraid of it - others of us should be very fearful. Join us to discover that that threat is as we break down 1st Corinthians 15:19-28.
We continue our study of the resurrection of Jesus Christ from 1st Corinthians 15 by looking at Paul's theological argument from Chapter 15:12-20. The Apostle Paul paints a picture of what the life and faith of a Christian might look like had Jesus not been resurrected from the dead compared to the reality we can experience because He was. The world with no resurrected Jesus is a truly a world without hope.
An introduction of 1st Corinthians 15 and the doctrinal teaching on the physical and bodily resurrection of Jesus Christ. We discuss how the resurrection is central to almost all of the other teachings of Jesus and the New Testament and the role this important truth plays in the life of the church and the individual Christian. From 1st Corinthians 15:1-7
We examine the controversial passage from 1st Corinthians 14:34-35 that seems to instruct that women are to remain silent in the church and that it is disgraceful for women to speak in worship. Could this really be what Paul was teaching for the Corinthian church, and if so, does that mean it applies to all churches, everywhere - even today? How would that interpretation fit into the rest of Paul's teachings, even here in the same letter? Is it consistent with New Testament thoughts and practices? If not, then what is the true meaning of these passages and how should we apply them to our lives and our local churches? Some of our conclusions might surprise you! From 1st Corinthians 14:33-38.
What does it mean when we talk about having "order" in our worship services? Who gets to decide what is "order" and what might be "out of order"? In Chapter 14 of 1st Corinthians as Paul is addressing the abuses of some spiritual gifts during the time of Corporate worship; he takes a moment to lay out the priorities of worship. Instead of focusing on the "why" and "how's" of worship like many churches today get bogged down in; Paul lays out the overarching purpose of worship in a corporate setting (like what most churches have on Sunday's services). Join us as we examine the "rules" of worship and how they should effect everything we do as a church. From 1st Corinthians 14:26-40.
Is the gift of "speaking in tongues" still available for Christians today or did it cease during the second or third centuries? If it is still available; what is it? A gift with foreign languages? a private prayer language? something to be used in church worship services? Regardless of what you might think or believe about the spiritual gift of tongues, we can all agree that it has been controversial and confusing for many in the church. So what exactly is it and what does the Bible really teach? We strive to answer all of those questions by examining the Apostle Paul's warnings and encouragements found in 1st Corinthians 14.
As we begin to tackle the controversial 1st Corinthians 14 and the subject of "speaking in tongues" or a "private prayer language"; Pastor Rusty takes this message time to share his personal testimony and experiences with "tongues". By using glimpses of his spiritual journey, scripture and through the churches and people he has served for and with over the last 30 years, you get a glimpse of how the Holy Spirit has led, guided and taught him what it really means to be "Charismatic". From 1st Corinthians 14:1-5 - part 1 of 2 messages from this passage.
A challenge for Christians to stand in the promises of God in 2020 and what that might look like. A message on how God takes those things that we feel like we "just survived" and uses them to mold and shape us into "overcomers". From 1st Corinthians 10:31-11:1.
Jesus warns us that others will know we are his disciples by the way we love each other. John warns over fifteen times in his first letter that if we claim to be a follower of Jesus and yet do not love our brother, we are a liar and the truth is not in us. The New Testament is clear that Christians have the capability and are commanded to love. In our study of 1st Corinthians, we find ourselves in Chapter 13, where the Apostle Paul warns the early church that this "love command" must start inside of the church and loving other Christians, then flow out to all other relationships we are involved in. But what does this type of love look like? How do we define it and practice it? Could what we have been calling "love" not be the type of love we are commanded to give? Join us as we examine what true, biblical, self-sacrificing, unconditional "Agape" love looks like and how it must be practiced. From 1st Corinthians 13:4-8
We kick-off the first week of the Advent season by continuing our study from 1st Corinthians by looking at the "Love Chapter" of 1st Corinthians 13. In the English language the word "love" can be used to describe a number of things and through its multiple uses it has become very subjective and difficult to define. What does it really mean to "love" someone, or to "love" something? Is all "love" equal? Do we really "love" our spouse or children in the same way that we "love" a good meal or television show? In the Greek language of the Bible, there are several words used to differentiate what "love" means and it is through the study of those various words and their uses that we can begin to see the differences. 1st Corinthians 13 has become famous through its use in weddings but what is the real context of this very important passage and does it make a difference? Why is the word used for love "agape" in this Chapter so important for Christians and the church? Join us as we unpack the meaning of "Agape" love and lay a foundation of truths that are required to really understand this well known passage of scripture. From 1st Corinthians 13:1-3
What do these three most dreaded words of the Christmas season (some assembly required) have in common with the local church? Join us as we examine the Apostle Paul's instruction manual for how the local church should be organized and operate. From 1st Corinthians 12:12-27.
What role does the Holy Spirit play in the life of a Christian? What does it mean to be "baptized in the Holy Spirit" or to be "Spirit-filled"? Are their certain Spiritual gifts that are "sign" that you have been "filled with the Holy Spirit"? Are all of the Spiritual Gifts listed in the New Testament still available for Christians today and if so, how can they be used to lift up and edify the Church? We discuss all of these questions and more in this message from 1st Corinthians 12 on the topic of Spiritual Gifts. Sadly, the same division and controversy that was evident at the Church of Corinth revolving around Spiritual Gifts remain in the modern church. We have allowed the enemy to take the gifts of the Holy Spirit that were meant to unify and lift up the body of Christ to become points of contention and controversy and distract us from the supernatural power available to every Christian. Join us as we explore this somewhat "controversial" topic. From 1st Corinthians 12:1-14
The Apostle Paul tackles the confusion and misuse of Spiritual Gifts by the Corinthian church in 1st Corinthians 12. Sadly many of the same issues facing that early church concerning spiritual gifts are still found in the church today. Join us as we examine Paul's warnings and how they relate to both the church and the spiritual growth of individual Christians. This is an introduction on the topic of Spiritual Gifts as we examine 5 truths that every Christ follower needs to both know and apply to their lives. From 1st Corinthians 12:1-7.
We continue our examination of the Apostle Paul's teaching about the Lord's Supper or Communion to the Corinthian Church from 1st Corinthians 11:23-34. This passage can be somewhat controversial as it has led many Christians and Christ follower's to abstain from participating in Communion for fear they might come in an "unworthy" manner. Was that really Paul's intent? Can we ever be "worthy" or pay "proper" respect to the meaning and purposes of this special event? Or was Paul simply reminding us that our behavior towards other Christians in the church will always affect our relationship with God and our ability to worship. Join us as we search for some Biblical answers and personal application from this "confusing" passage of scripture.
From the early church until today, the very simple act of worship and unity that Jesus exampled at his last meal with his disciples before his arrest, has become a point of disagreement and distraction. Whether you call it Communion, Eucharist or The Lord's Supper, it has been surrounded in confusion, disagreement and divide; yet it was instituted by Jesus Christ as a means of displaying the power of unity and the celebration of community. Sadly for many Christians, we have allowed it to become everything but worship and celebration. Join us as we examine Paul's warning to the Corinthian church about taking this special time or worship lightly or for granted and how that relates to the modern church. From 1 Corinthians 11:17-22
Part one of 2 on this passage from 1st Corinthians 11:17-34
An examination of the somewhat confusing and controversial 1st Corinthians 11:2-16. What does it really say about Men's authority over women? Should we cover our heads in worship? Should we cut our hair as a spiritual act? What in the world is Paul getting at in this crazy passage and does it have any application for the current church and Christian's today? Join us as we strive to unwind just what this passage means and more importantly what it meant to the original listeners and what Paul was trying to get them to understand!
This podcast and sermon is a little longer than our normal weekly messages.
Our goal is to shape and develop First Baptist Church of Blowing Rock into a place where people can Belong, Believe and Become. This message is to help explain and define what those terms mean and how it effects our members and community. We also look at why it is important to be a part of a local faith community. From Ephesians 2:19-22.
The Apostle Paul makes a bold declaration in 1st Corinthians 11:1 when he tells the Corinthian Christians to "Follow me as I follow the example of Christ". As Christians, we are all following the teachings and example of Jesus Christ, but what Paul was saying is that if you want to see what it means to live that out; look at me, watch me, listen to me and imitate me. I don't know many Christians today that would want that kind of pressure or be willing to make that kind of statement, but the truth is that people are already following us, watching us, listening to us, imitating us. It is part of our DNA and we grow up being taught by example. We start out following the examples of our parents, then our peers, then maybe a teacher or a coach, then maybe a co-worker; but we are all following someone. That means that someone is probably following you; your children and grandchildren, your neighbors, your friends, co-workers, fellow students, maybe people you will never see or know about - but they are watching. The question then becomes - where are we leading them? By making such a bold statement, Paul was calling us to be intentional in both who we follow, but also in leading those who follow us. Whether we like it or not, or are willing to admit it; the moment we took on the name Christian, of follower of Christ, we are saying "follow me". Listen in to discover how you can ensure that you are following the right examples but also how you can make sure that those who are following you are going in the right direction. From 1st Corinthians 10:23-11:1
Join us as we discover the importance of maintaining balance in every area of our lives - especially our spiritual lives. We examine 1st Corinthians 10:23-24 and strive to discover just what it means to be spiritually free and how we can apply our spiritual freedoms to our everyday lives.
What do we think about when we hear the term "idol", or idolatry, or "false idols"? Most of us think of bowing down to carved or created object, yet the most dangerous form of idolatry today has nothing to do with created objects but rather our attitudes and priorities. The Bible teaches that idolatry is the most destructive sin that a person can commit, yet we rarely hear that term any longer. We prefer less offensive phrases like "misplaced priorities" or "wrong perspective" or "different theology" but make no mistake, those things are no less idolatry or an offense to a Holy God than if we had a golden calf in the garage. Join us as the Apostle Paul takes a deep dive on the dangers of idolatry and how our unwitting participation can have profound effects on our relationship with God. Modern idolatry has less to do with things around us than it does with those things within us. From 1st Corinthians 10: 14-22
A look at 1st Corinthians 10:1-13 and the issue of trials, temptations and test. Join us as we examine how it could not only happen to you - but probably will! What is "it" listen in to find out!
Most Christians would say that they have a desire to grow spiritually; to learn the word of God and how to apply it to their lives, to grow deeper in their personal relationship with God - yet their seems to be a huge gap between wanting something (desire) and actually doing it. Less than 5% of those who claim to be followers of Jesus Christ say they actually read the Bible on a daily basis and less than 25% on a weekly basis and that includes a Sunday service where they are encouraged to read it. We will never develop spiritual disciplines in our lives and grow spiritually until we have the right commitment, motivation and training. Have you ever wondered why it is so hard to start something new, and even harder to stick with it until completion? The Apostle Paul offers some insight into his own personal life and how he was able to develop spiritually and grow by comparing spiritual growth to an athlete in training. Join us as we discover how we can apply these same principles and truths to our own personal lives and spiritual journey. From 1st Corinthians 9:24-27.
We continue our close examination of 1st Corinthians 9:15-23 and the Apotle Paul's motivation and determination to preach the gospel to anyone, anywhere at anytime. We once again look at what it means to be "compelled" and what exactly might it be that could compel us to move out of our apathy and comfort zone and move into a place of service for the Kingdom of God. Sermon #24 examined how Paul was compelled by the call that God had placed on his life and this morning's message picks up there to examine how Paul was also compelled by both the messsage itself and his own personal experience. These truths will challenge us and make even the most committed among us a little uncomfortable when we examine our own lives by comparison. A challenge for the church to be adaptable and flexible in our methods and ministry in a changing culture and for individual Christians to recognize the responsibility and role we each play in being "all things to all people"! Throw in a little visit from Dr. Seuss at the end!
As Paul continues to defend his rights as an Apostle and his preference for choosing to abstain from those rights for the sake of sharing the gospel; he gives us some insight into his motivation for serving. While the word "call" is never used in the passage from 1st Corinthians 9:15-23, Paul clearly defines what a "call" from God looks like lived out. When we use the word "call" in a religious sense, most think of someone who has been called to vocational ministry, like a missionary or a Pastor; but the New Testament is very clear that everyone who gives their life to Jesus Christ has a new "call" on their lives - they have been "Called"! The problem is that it is a call that most Christians let go to Voicemail. Join us as we explore both the general and uniquely specific "calls" from God that those who choose to follow Christ have on their lives and how we can discover what that call means and looks like, in our everyday lives.
After introducing the concept of a Christ follower's willingness to restrict their own freedoms and rights for the sake of a weaker or more immature fellow Christian in 1st Corinthians 8 in last week's message; the Apostle Paul continues to illustrate this concept by using examples from his own life. Here in Chapter 9, Paul makes the case for his own rights as an Apostle and how he freely sacrifices those rights for the sake of the gospel. In this study we will examine what makes someone an Apostle and why their are no modern day apostles as well as the argument on the churches responsibility to financially support their ministers and Pastors. We also continue to examine the overall concept of sacrificing our rights and freedoms as Christians for the sake of others. When should we consider it and what might it look like? Join us as we walk through 1st Corinthians 9 and learn what it means to truly express your rights and freedoms with love as our motivation.
The Apostle Paul has already warned the Corinthian church about using their personal convictions as a spiritual club to guilt, manipulate and control other Christians. These convictions are not always spiritual admonitions but rather guidelines and boundaries that the Holy Spirit has convicted the individuals for their own personal growth, yet when we try to push these convictions on others or worse, we judge others because they do not hold the same convictions; it can lead to legalism and turn biblically gray areas into dangerous absolutes. But what about on the other end of the spectrum? What about the spiritually mature Christ follower who has experienced freedoms in various areas yet they use those freedoms to undermine the personal convictions of the more immature believer? If one side is dangerous, might the other be just as dangerous and possibly turn something that is not sinful into sin through our actions? While Paul may be talking about eating meat sacrificed to idols in 1st Corinthians 8, the lesson is much deeper and just as relevant for the church and Christians today as we explore the danger of flaunting our freedoms and coloring outside the lines. From 1st Corinthians 8.
One of the greatest areas of struggle in a Christians life is dealing with destructive discontentment. From the Garden of Eden until today, we all struggle with the idea that if we could only have a better job, a better relationship, a bigger house, etc. then life would all work out and we would be happy and satisfied. But it never works out, because those things only create a bigger hunger and never satisfy. That is the same lie that convinced Lucifer to rebel against God in the heavens, and it was the same seeds of discontentment that led Adam and Eve's to disobey God in the garden and it continues to rob Christians of their peace, joy and contentment today. In the middle of answering questions about relationships from the Corinthian church in 1st Corinthian 7, the Apostle Paul lays out some incredible truth about the roots of discontentment and confronts the three main areas where most of us continue to struggle with learning to be content. He also identifies the answer to why God might not be changing the life circumstances and situations you find yourself in; no matter how much you pray. Listen in and discover the true freedom that comes from experiencing contentment. From 1st Corinthians 7:17-24.
A message looking at the Freedoms that we have as Americans compared to the Freedoms we have in Jesus Christ. From Galatians 5:1-6,13
What does the Bible really teach about divorce? about remarriage? While most are quick to point to the teaching of Jesus in Matthew 5 and 19, the Apostle Paul takes a deeper dive in answering questions from the Corinthian Church about specific instances that Jesus' teachings don't cover. Join us as we examine those specific examples and try to seek some truth we can apply to our own relationship situations as well as how the church should treat and minister to those who are divorced or remarried. Regardless of what we might believe or may have been taught; the issue of divorce and remarriage from a Biblical standpoint is much more complex than what many make it out to be. From 1st Corinthians 7:8-17.
Many people consider 1st Corinthians 7 to be the Apostle Paul's manifesto on marriage and if that is true, then it is also his masterpiece on Singleness. All throughout the Chapter, Paul continues to confront the culture and the church's wrong thinking about those who are unmarried or single by reminding them that not only was he single and content, but being single is a gift from God and comes with many blessings and opportunities to serve and minister that married people will never have. Join us as we discuss why the modern church needs to repent of the same mindset as the Corinthian church in our attitudes and behaviors towards those who are not married and move towards a more Biblical attitude. Many of us are guilty of seeing those who are single and older and asking ourselves "I wonder what is wrong with them that they are not married?" or "Why are they still single?" when we should be recognizing that God calls and gifts those among us to be single for a purpose. Join us as we celebrate the gift of singleness and correct wrong thinking regarding single Christians. From 1st Corinthians 7.
Just a short message from Pastor Rusty about our lack of recent podcast due to some sound upgrades and his recent vacation. We will be back with a new podcast on Monday, June 24th from the Sunday, June 23rd worship service.
We also would like to announce that our entire worship services are now Livestreamed each Sunday at 10:00 a.m. (Eastern Standard Time) on our church's website (firstbaptistblowingrock.com) or our church's Facebook page. You can also go back and watch services from earlier services. This is also available on mobile devices by going to our website from those devices.
Thank you for listening to our podcast and for your continued support of our ministry by sharing it with your friends and family. We have people listening from all around the globe and in every state and we thank you for that. If you ever have any questions about a message or a prayer request, or if their is something our ministry might can do for you; please let us know by emailing us at office@firstbaptistblowingrock.com
God Bless each of you!
The Church at Corinth was surrounded by one of the most immoral cultures in the Roman world and the city of Corinth and it's Temple to Aphrodite was ground zero. With over 2,000 temple priestess who supported the temple through prostitution, the prevailing attitude concerning sex and sexual behavior had devolved to the point where it was considered just another "activity" like eating, sleeping and going to work. This had a strong influence on the mindset and the activity of the Corinthian Christians as they found themselves embracing this new "liberating" sexual revolution. With slogans like "Everything is Permissible" or "I can do what I want" to "It's My Body", these early Christians lost sight of the devastating effects that sexual activity outside the confines of Biblical marriage can sow in our hearts and souls. The Apostle Paul not only confronts this mindset, but warns and reminds this early church - and us, how we are to respond to sexual temptation and how sexual activity outside of marriage is much more than "Just Sex". From 1st Corinthians 6:12-20.
As the Apostle Paul continues to challenge the Church at Corinth about what it means for the church to love one another and operate as a "family"; he confronts the issue of Christians suing each other and church members taking other members to court. As America continues to be the most litigious nation in the world with over 125 million civil lawsuits filed last year; the church is not far behind. Any easy search will discover information about Pastors or church staff members suing deacon boards, deacon boards suing the staff, church members suing the church, members suing one another and even individual churches suing their denominations. It seems Paul's warnings from 1st Corinthians 6 have gone unheeded and the reputation, integrity and testimony of the church and its members continues to deteriorate. Join us to discover why Paul thinks Christians taking other Christians to court is such a big deal and how it can destroy the unity of the Body of Christ. We also address when it is okay for a Christian to use the legal system to defend themselves and fight injustice. From 1st Corinthians 6:1-8 and Matthew 18.
One of the struggle for the Christian Church today is how do you create a welcoming, loving and gracious attmosphere where anyone and everyone is welcome yet still be a Holy place that stands for God's righteousness. The simple answer is balance, but many congregations and even denominations find themselves slipping into the dangerous extremes where you are either legalistic, harsh and judgmental on one end or you ignore, rationalize and excuse sin in the name of tolerance and love to the point that the church becomes powerless and indistinguishable from the world on the other. In our passage today, the Apostle Paul deals with the somewhat controversial topic of "Church Discipline" and in his warnings and encouragements, I think we can find some answers for maintaining balance and creating an open and welcoming, grace centered church that still takes sin seriously. Join us to discover the answer. From 1st Corinthians 5.
In the setting of the local church, it seems like everyone has an opinion on what a Pastor does or even should be doing. Some think the Pastor only works on Sunday's and Wednesday's, others think the Pastor should do everything that is needed done around the church - after all, the church does pay their salary! Sadly, when you look at most Pastor's job descriptions and combine it with the expectations of church members; you have a job that even the Apostle Paul couldn't live up to. Could it be that many of the churches that struggle and find themselves in decline have arrived at that place because their Pastor or Spiritual leaders spend so much time trying to live up to the unrealistic expectations of church members that they have no time or energy left to actually Pastor? So what does the Bible actually say about "what" a Pastor should be focusing their time and energy on? Join us as we examine how Paul confronts the division and the disunity in the Church at Corinth by laying out a powerful argument for what Authentic Spiritual Leadership looks like and where they should be focusing their time, efforts and energy. From 1st Corinthians 4
Join us as we celebrate Easter and the impact and power of the Death, Burial and Resurrection of Jesus Christ by examining one of the most memorized and quoted verses in the Bible; Romans 6:23. In this short and concise verse, the Apostle Paul captures the impact of the Easter story and the implications it holds for all of humanity.
We continue to examine the Apostle Paul's warning to the Corinthians church in 1st Corinthians 3 as he introduces the idea of Christians standing in judgement before Christ to give an account of their lives. Sadly, for a majority of people, most of what we claim to believe and understand about Heaven is based more in popular literature, movies or television than in scripture. So it is not uncommon to discover that many Christians do not understand that their are two judgements mentioned in the New Testament and both have huge eternal consequences. Most would recognize the "Great White Throne" judgment mentioned in the Book of Revelation where all mankind will give an account for their lives and how they responded to Jesus Christ invitation of salvation, but many do not understand about the second judgment that Christians will face. This will not be a judgment of sin but rather one of stewardship. Join us as we explore what this place of judgment will be and how our lives lived for Christ today will greatly affect the outcome. Will there be rewards in heaven? Will there be tears in heaven? Listen in to find out. From 1st Corinthians 3:10-17.
Can a Christian be "worldly"? or "Carnal"? And if so, what does that really mean and look like in a practical sense for today's church? How would you define an "immature" Christian versus a "mature" Christian and does the maturity level of a Christian really matter anymore? As the Apostle Paul continues to confront the divisions in the Corinthian Church (as well as today's church), those are just a few of the questions he strives to answer and define. Could it be that one of the reasons so many Christians struggle in their relationship with God and their faith is their maturity level? Listen in as we try to allow Paul's teaching to shine some light on the "shallow" faith that seems to be so pervasive in the church today and what we can do about it. Could it be that spiritual immaturity is corrupting the message and ministry of the church and endangering Christ followers? Listen in! From 1 Corinthians 2:14-3:9.
In our passage from 1st Corinthians 2; the Apostle Paul continues to explain God's wisdom versus the wisdom of men and now he introduces the role that the Holy Spirit plays in illuminating God's wisdom for Christ follower. In this message, we give an overview of the Holy Spirit's role in the life of Christians with an emphasis on how he brings scripture to life. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we can know the ways, wisdom and will of God as revealed in His word. We discuss the confusion over the Holy Spirit's role in a Christ followers life and the difference between revelation and illumination. From 1st Corinthians 2:6-16.
What makes an effctive witness? What makes an effective Sermon? Why was the Apostle Paul's message so powerful that we continue to study and follow his example today? In this passage from 1 Corinthians we can gain some insight into how Paul was able to release the power of God's wisdom and message through his life and testimony as well as discovering how we can do the same in our own churches and personal lives. In a world where we are told the church must be more "relevant" and focused on "needs based" message and ministry; the Apostle Paul counters that the most relevant message is that of the Cross. In this Sermon we examine how followers of Christ can allow what the world calls "foolish" to be unleashed and released as the "power of God". From 1 Corinthians 2:1-5.
As the Apostle Paul continues to explain the differences between the wisdom of the world and God's wisdom in his 1st Letter to the Corinthian Church; today's message finds him listing several examples that prove that divide. Using paradoxical language, he describes the types of people that God uses to further his kingdom; the types of people that He calls to serve, to minister, to teach and preach. In a time where so many Christ followers are quick to find excuses for why they "cannot", the words found in our passage today offer a rebuke and an encouragement for why "God can"! From 1st Corinthians 1:26-31.
Paul continues his discussion on the divisive nature of the Cross and all that the Cross represents by taking his assertion from last weeks message that "there are only two true responses when we are confronted by what Christ accomplished on the Cross" and suggest their are two main reasons people reject the "Message of the Cross". Have you ever wondered why people reject Christ and walk away from his offer of forgiveness and salvation? This message looks at those two groups; one wanting a sign from God, and others caught up in their own wisdom, reason and understanding, and explores how that relates to today's culture. We also examine and discuss the "expected process" of someone converting to Christianity, or surrendering their life to God through Jesus Christ and ask the question "Have we made it more complicated than it really is?". From 1st Corinthians 1:18-25.
As the Apostle Paul continues to confront the divisions in the Church at Corinth over personalities and preferences, he moves into the issue of philosophical differences. Just as last week we examined how the Cross is the foundation for unity within the church, this week we look at the "flip side" and how the Cross can be divisive outside of the church and when it comes to world philosophies. We discuss the centrality of the Message of the Cross to everything Christians believe and uphold and how that message compels Christ followers to "deny themselves, take up their cross and follow Jesus". From 1st Corinthians 1:17-19
When the Apostle Paul begins to confront the problems and issues plaguing the Corinthian church, he starts with addressing the power struggles and division that is tearing the church apart. As many churches today continue to be torn apart over issues of personality, programs and power; Paul's words still ring true. If division and quarreling is left unchecked it can destroy a church body, a churches witness and their ministry to the local community, leaving individual Christians as spiritual casualties in the process. Join us Paul "names names" and calls out the various groups on their real agenda by reinforcing the power of unity that is only found in the Cross. From 1st Corinthians 1:10-17
We begin a new series examining the Apostle Paul's first letter to the Church at Corinth that we are calling "The Struggle is Real". In this series we hope to address many of the struggles that Christians face trying to live out and apply Biblical principles and truth to their everyday lives. This message is an introduction to the series and examines the history and problems facing the Corinthian church and the culture they live in. We also find Paul laying a foundation of some important truths that he will build on throughout the letter. In his short introductory greeting Paul addresses not only who the church is but also what it means to be "sanctified" in Christ and why that is important to both the original readers and to us today. From 1 Corinthians 1:1-3
There were over 80 prophecies in the Old Testament concerning the birth of the Messiah; very specific prophecies, and yet many of the very people who had spent their lives studying those prophecies missed his arrival. The odds of one person fulfilling all 80 of those prophecies are 1 in one hundred quadrillion (1 with 17 "0"'s) yet Jesus Christ fulfilled them all. In this message, we finish up our series on The Real Christmas Story by looking at how many times Ralphie was warned about the dangers of a Red Ryder BB gun and shooting his eye out and how that relates to the warnings of the coming Messiah. We will examine some of the various prophecies about the birth of the Messiah and how Jesus fulfilled them as well as the prophecies from Jesus's own lips and the Apostle Paul about the second coming of Jesus Christ. Will we be as prepared for his second coming as the religious scholars were for his first? From Isaiah 9:6-7, 1st Thessalonians 4:13-5:11
Part 2 of our Real Christmas Story series that examines the Biblical Christmas story through the lens of the popular movie and television show "A Christmas Story". This week we discuss Ralphie's dad and all the trials and tribulations he faces in the movie and how that related to Joseph, the earthly father of Jesus Christ. Joseph is a character who usually gets pushed to the sides of our nativity scenes and Christmas musicals. There are no songs about Joseph and we know very little about him; yet without Joseph and his obedience to God in a very trying and difficult circumstance, we would have no nativity. Join us to discover how God used Joseph to fulfill numerous Old Testament prophecies concerning Jesus' birth and how his example of obedience can still teach us a few lessons today.
We kick off our new series that uses the popular Christmas Movie "A Christmas Story" as a jumping off place to discover some important elements of the Real Christmas Story that tend to get overlocked. As we discuss Ralphie and his Christmas experience in the 1950's and his pursuit of a Red Ryder B-B gun, we will take a closer look at several scenes and storylines from the movie and how they compare to the story of the birth of Jesus Christ. The first in this series examines the "Dreaded Triple Dog Dare" when Ralphie's friend Swartz dares Flick to stick his tongue on a frozen telephone pool. Join us as we discover why Jesus was born when he was and how that fits into God's overall plan for each one of our lives. From Galatians 4:4-7.
Every year it seems like the Christmas Season starts earlier and earlier and as Thanksgiving bleeds into Christmas, it might be beneficial for each of us to take a moment, hit the pause button, and examine our hearts. While we like to bemoan the commercialization and secularization of Christmas, those issues are not the heart of the problem - the problem just might be our hearts! This week between Thanksgiving and the start of Advent gives us a great opportunity to examine our hearts and make sure we have the right foundation and motivation to start the Holidays off right. Join us as we prepare our hearts to celebrate the Birth of Jesus Christ. From Matthew 6:22-24;33.
We finish up our study on developing a Thankful heart and grateful spirit by looking at the benefits and blessings that are unlocked when we express gratitude. We look at an encounter that Jesus had with 10 men struck with leprosy to unpack the difference between feeling thankful and being thankful and why it matters. We also suggest some practical ways we can express our gratitude to those around us during the holiday season. From Luke 17:10-19
As we continue our series on developing a grateful and thankful spirit during this season of Thanksgiving, this message examines what is at the core or foundation of true gratitude. Why do we sometimes struggle with being thankful for what we have been blessed with and how do we overcome the barriers to a grateful heart like envy, greed and lack of faith? Join us as we examine what the Apostle Paul calls "the secret" of gratitude and how we can learn to apply this "secret" to our own lives. From Philippians 4:10-13.
For those who have grown up in the church or around the church, you might be unaware of how strange some of the most commonly used phrases sound to those outside of the church. We have a tendency to speak "Christianeze" and cling to our own terminology and catch phrases that might not be communicating what we hope. Think about some of these phrases like; "hedge of protection" "whole armor of God" "Traveling Mercies" "unspoken prayer request" "washed in the blood" "speaking in tongues" and even "born again". If we have to take time to further explain what a term means we might be better off using a different term or phrase. One of the most popular phrases in "christianeze" today is "Blessed and highly favored" and if you have been around Christ followers for any length of time you have probably heard it expressed. There is nothing wrong with the phrase, it comes straight from the Angel Gabriel's lips to Mary, the mother of Jesus, in Luke's gospel; but when we use it in our everyday vocabulary - what do we mean and better yet, what are we communicating? Could we be miscommunicating what it really means to be "blessed" by God, or "favored" by God and in could that have an effect on how we express our gratitude and thanksgiving? Join us as we explore what it really means to be "blessed and highly favored". From Psalms 23
As the average age of a majority of church congregations in the United States continues to rise, it is understandable that the same is true for church leadership. The average age of Senior Pastors in the US is in the mid 50's, our foreign missionaries average is in the mid 50's, even our deacons, elders, Sunday school teachers and committee membership is around the mid 50's. While there is nothing wrong with people in the mid 50's or even older, it stands to reason that as the average age continues to rise and with the current trend of younger people dropping out of church; what is going to happen in 15 years? Will we have difficulty finding missionaries to step in and take the mantle from those who have served faithfully? Will churches have difficulties finding a Pastor? Will we see a shortage of leadership within our congregations? If that happens, how will it effect the spread of the gospel around the world or even in our own backyards? CK Chesterton once said, "Christianity is only ever one generation away from extinction" All it takes is for one generation to walk away and not step in and continue the work that has been done by past generations. Could that be a possibility? Join us as we examine how we can reverse this trend as we discuss spiritual immaturity in the church and our problems with having the right priorities. From Hebrews 5:11-6:1 and Luke 9:51-62.
Have you ever thought about why we gather together on Sunday mornings for church, or corporate worship? Not the theological reasons; it is pretty clear in the Bible that the local faith community is the main avenue for individual Christians to grow and serve and it is the main means by which God accomplishes his purposes here on earth. I am talking about your own personal reasons. Why do you "go to church"? out of habit? routine? obligation? because you think it is expected of you? Building on last week's message of "Why we sing" this message strives to answer in a practical and Biblical manner, "why we gather together" in worship and by doing so, hopefully give us some insight into why church attendance continues to decline across America. From Psalms 100.
Have you ever wondered why churches spend between half of even a third of their worship services in song? If you look back over the last 30 years in the history of the American church, the greatest place of contention, disruption, disunity and spiritual warfare has revolved around that portion of our worship services where we sing. We have fought over how we sing, what we sing, and even the instruments we use when we sing and churches continue to split, become spiritually neutered and rendered powerless in the process. For the enemy to attack this portion of our worship service's with such ferocity, it must be pretty important. Listen in the discover "Why we sing". From Nehemiah 12, John 4:21-24
Have you ever considered your legacy? What will people think about you when you are gone, or will they even think about you? What about 50 years from now, or 75? When you think of the great examples of those who were faithful to God in the Bible it is easy to come up with the names like Moses, Gideon, Joshua, David, Nehemiah, Elijah; but the vast majority of people whose legacy we follow are unnamed and really unknown. They served God, remained faithful and sought to do his will; yet to our history they seemed to have been forgotten. But God's point of view is much different than our recorded history. To God, each of those faithful forgotten were valued treasures, remembered and rewarded for their service and faithfulness. What a great encouragement for many of us today who can get discouraged or feel like we are all alone, or even underappreciated. Join us as we look at Nehemiah 11 and gain some encouragement to press on.
When you mention Satan in Christian circles you will find that many Christ followers fall into one of two extreme positions; they are either obsessed with spiritual warfare and see the devil in everything, or they downplay or ignore that he is even real, with many picturing him as some cartoon with a pointy tail and horns. The Bible is very clear that both of those extremes are dangerous and the Apostle Peter warns us in 2 Peter 5 that we must always be alert as "the enemy" or Satan would love to "devour" all we hold dear. Jesus warns in the Gospel of John that not only is Satan a liar, but he seeks to steal, kill and destroy our relationship with God, our peace, our joy and our purpose. We must take him serious because one of his greatest tools of disruption are the people we encounter in our everyday lives. This message examines and identifies how the enemy will use other people to attack, undermine, intimidate and isolate us whenever we strive to be obedient to God's word and apply and live out the truths we find there. Listen in to discover how you can defend yourself from those attacks by following Nehemiah's example. From Nehemiah 6
How do we determine our worth? Is it our income? our talent? our abilities? For the Christ follower our value or worth should not be defined by who we are, or what we can do, or have done but rather "whose" we are. From our story in Nehemiah we discover that the Israelites used the old broken and burned bricks from the destroyed wall to rebuild the new wall. They literally redeemed those bricks that had laid around for 170 years and which most people had considered worthless and gave them value. They formed the foundation of all that was new. God does the same thing for each of us. Even at our worst, God never stopped seeing our worth and value to Him - we just needed to be redeemed. Join us as we discover the beauty and joy of redemption and how valuable each of us really are to God. From Nehemiah 4:1-2, Nehemiah 6:15-16.
In Nehemiah chapter 6 we discover that Nehemiah has seen his dream/vision become a reality. The walls of Jerusalem are complete and in record time. In Chapter 7 we learn that after completing the task, the people go back to their villages, jobs and normal routines, yet something is still not right. They had their security, life was returning to normal, but something was still missing. In Chapter 8 as they gather back in Jerusalem to celebrate "Rosh Hashana", the Jewish new year, they are confronted with the reality that what is missing and has been missing for 170 years is their relationship with God. Join us as we examine how our appetites and desires dictate our decision making and "what we are hungry for" is always revealed by our actions. In the message, we discuss the growing threat of a "Spiritual Anorexia" in the church and in many Christ followers lives as we are in danger of losing our spiritual hunger for the power and presence of God. How does it happen? How can you get it back? Is it even important? From Nehemiah 8.
We continue our examination of Strongholds that exist in the lives of Christ followers and that have been institutionalized in the church. Strongholds are "beliefs, ideas, pretext or principles" that are contrary to the Word of God. These are ideas we have allowed to take root in our hearts and minds that keep us from fulfilling God's call on our lives and distort our mission and message. This week we examine and explain the stronghold of "Americanized Cultural Christianity". A homogenized view of what it means to be a Christ follower that circumvents scripture and replaces it with the American dream. We examine what Jesus expects out of those who follow Him compared to what we hear from most American Christians. We also examine the offshoot stronghold of "Christian Nationalism" that is beginning to take root in many churches and communities in America and how it loses sight of where our true hope and allegiance lies. From the three parable of Matthew 25, 2nd Corinthians 10:3-5, Revelation 3:14-18.
In 2nd Corinthians 10:3-5, the Apostle Paul uses the term "Stronghold" to describe thoughts, pretext, reasonings and even beliefs that can take root in our hearts and minds that are contrary to scripture. These "strongholds" can be both conscious or subconscious. Many times we do not even realize that they have taken root until they are exposed by the truth of the Word of God and the Holy Spirit. These "strongholds" influence our thought patterns, our presuppositions, our prejudices, our philosophies and even our worldviews and while they might seem innocent, many are unbiblical and can not only hinder our spiritual growth, they can also distort the message of the gospel we are called to proclaim. These same strongholds, over time, can become institutionalized in the church and keep a local faith community from fulfilling its mission. This morning we examine how Nehemiah dealt with a potential stronghold in Nehemiah 13 as well as identifying 4 strongholds that can be found in many of our personal lives as well as the local church. Part 1 of a 2 part message on rooting out the strongholds that are holding churches back from moving into the future. From Nehemiah 13:4-9
Everyone of us has faced discouragement; things don't turn out the way we had planned, not moving as fast as we had hoped, everyone is not supportive - we have all been there. But if we are not careful, simple discouragement can lead us into a pit of despair where we can lose hope, joy and even our faith. By revisiting our story from Nehemiah, this message examines and identifies several factors that can lead us into discouragement and despair. We then look at how Nehemiah dealt with discouragement and discover some spiritual solutions to not only guard against it, but to also help those who find themselves on the verge of despair. From Nehemiah 4:10-12, Psalms 40:1-3.
As we celebrate our nations independence, this week we examine some of the reasons that drove the 13 colonies to choose independence and whether or not we have achieved those goals. We examine how that relates to the church in the areas of religious liberty and freedom and ask the question; is their anything today that we really feel is worth fighting for? Join us for a call to the church for a Spiritual Revolution and Revival that declares not our independence but rather our total dependence on the one who created, saves and leads us. From 2 Samuel 23:11-12.
Nehemiah gathered forty four diverse groups of people and put them to work rebuilding a mile and a half wall that used to encircle the city of Jerusalem. People from all types of backgrounds and walks of life, people with no real training in construction, and under constant threats of attack; he led them to build. In 52 days, less than 2 months, they had completed the wall to a height of 8 feet or half of its original height. For 170 years the walls had been nothing more than rubble that people walked over and ignored and then this stranger with a vision had called them together to accomplish the impossible and he did it in less time than it takes most churches to put a committee together. How? How did this seemingly impossible task become a reality in such a short amount of time? Join us to find out the secret for witnessing the impossible become reality and along the way you might just discover the keys to moving forward with your own God given dream. From Nehemiah 3
It is all to common to find Christians and Churches pursue a God given dream or vision, only to find it turn into a nightmare along the journey. From losing sight of our true purpose to allowing opposition or distractions to get us sidetracked; History is littered with the stories of how well intentioned people and churches go from moving forward to falling by the wayside. In this message, we examine the many detours and dangers that Nehemiah faced as he pursued his vision. Sometimes it is even the most well intentioned thoughts and ideas that can turn our dreams into nightmares. This is a great warning for anyone who is willing to boldly step out on faith and trust God to see the "what could be" become a reality. From Nehemiah 5:14-19.
As we continue our discussion on following our God given dreams and visions, this morning we discuss how we can recognize when God is opening a door, or providing a means for our dreams to become reality. So many churches and Christians become focused on God working in the same way He has worked in the past, that we miss all of the new opportunities and open doors right in front of us. We examine how God provided for Nehemiah thought the most unexpected place as he pursued his dream. We also discuss the opposition and conflicts you will face once you begin to go through the open doors that God provides. Join us for an encouraging look at how you can identify when, where and how God is working all around you to provide a means for you to fulfill your God given dream. From Nehemiah 2:1-9
When God gives us a vision or dream for anything; our families, our future, a career, a ministry opportunity; there is always a tension between the way things are and the way things can be, or should be. It is in this tension between the two where most of us spend our time. We know what could be, we might even know how to see it become a reality, but waiting on God's timing and for God to open a door that will allow us to move forward is one of the hardest parts of following a dream. We hate waiting and instead of being patient, many times, we end up forcing the issue or taking matters into our own hands and making a mess of it. This morning we will examine Nehemiah's life and journey and how he handled waiting for God to provide an "open door" for his dream to become a reality and what he did in the meantime. If you feel like God has you in a "holding pattern" as you strive to move from where you are to where you want to be, or even where you should be; this message is for you. From Nehemiah 1:5-11.
How do we know what God's dream or vision for our life is? Does everyone have one? What about the church, how can we know? Where do we start? Join us we continue our series "This is Us" by talking about the tension between "where we are" and "where God wants us to be" and how it relates to the "dreams and visions" that Peter talked about in quoting Joel at Pentecost. The Bible is clear that God created each one of us with a purpose but how can we know what it is, and once we do, what can we do about it? In this message that reflects on the recent history of First Baptist Blowing Rock, we examine what it takes to get from "here" to "there". From Nehemiah.
How many of us have allowed the "cant's" of the world and the people around us to stifle and kill our hopes, dreams and visions? The Bible is clear that God has a purpose for each one of us and he reveals and plants that purpose in our hearts through his visions and dreams. He does the same thing for churches and ministries. Then how can we know it is a "God given dream" and not just our own? What do we do once we discover what His dream is for our lives? or for our churches? Join us as we answer those questions and discover how we can learn to turn all of those "cant's" in "cans"! From Act 11:6-10.
One of the rare phenomenon found in many churches is the idea of an "inactive member". Many churches claim to have one number as "church members" that is usually much greater than the number of people who are in worship on a regular basis. Some have "members" who have not been in that church for years, some who they don't even have an active address or phone number to be able to contact; yet they are still counted as "members". In searching the Bible it is difficult to find anything that might indicate it is possible to be an "inactive" church member; the name itself is an oxymoron. How do you define "active" or "inactive'? Join us as we discover what the New Testament defined as an active member of a local faith community and along the way uncover why we should "join" church in the first place. From Colossians 3:11-17
We continue our "This is Us" sermon series by examining the "how" and "why" of the various things we do in the church by discussing how we evaluate church health or church success. How do we measure success and by what standards? It is difficult to evaluate the success of a program or ministry unless we first examine why we do those programs or ministries. Do we do them because their is a Biblical mandate or it was something the early church exampled? Or do we do them because it is a preference (the way we like it, or way it has always been done)? Or do we do them because of pragmatism (it works, or has worked somewhere else)? We can't honestly evaluate something until we investigate the "why's". This message examines the principle of church membership. Is joining a local church a preference, pragmatic or a biblical mandate? What does the Bible say? Why is it important? Join us to discover the answer. From 1 Peter 5:1-4,Hebrews 13:17.
We continue our examination of who we are as "the church" by looking at the first church and what where their guiding motives and methods. As we plan for the future and who we want to be as a church and a Christian community in ten, twenty or even fifty years; the best place to start is by examining where we have come from, where we have been and to allow those lessons to become guardrails that guide us towards the future. We have an example in Acts 2 of the most effective and Biblical church growth model in history; yet many fail to apply those founding principles as they plan for the future, choosing instead to chase trends, fads and programs. Join us as we discover how the secret to the churches future might just be found in our past. From Acts 2:42-47.
In this session we examine the world setting and context for the end of Genesis (Joseph's death) and the beginning of Exodus (Moses birth and calling). We also answer some questions related to our Sunday sermon series on Baptist beliefs that cover; baptism and infant baptism, religious liberty and communion. We hope to have the maps and study notes available online at the churches website this week. Thank you for following along and for your emailed questions.
We continue the sermon series "This is Us" calling us to examine who we are as a church, what we believe, what is our vision for the future and how are we going to accomplish it; this morning we examine "Where we came from", our heritage. Using the story of Josephs bones in Genesis, Exodus and Joshua, we discuss the importance of passing along our story and how Christ has impacted that story to the next generation. Building on the history of how FBC Blowing Rock came into existence 115 years ago, we are challenged by what it might look like 115 years from now and our role in that future. The reason so many churches are in self preservation mode is because they have lost sight of their original mission and message and have resorted to programs and personalities to try and stay relevant. We can never understand where God is leading us, if we do not understand and remember where we have come from. Join us as we discover the importance of the "Keepers of the Bones", not only in the history of the early nation of Israel, but in our own churches history and future. Psalms 78:1-7
Join us as we rediscover the power and purpose of the Cross and Resurrection of Jesus Christ. What does the empty tomb mean to me and do for me? From Psalms 22, Philippians 3:7-11
This week we begin our journey to Easter by examining the journey Jesus took to the Cross. By asking the question, "When did Jesus start on his journey to Calvary"? or even "When did Jesus make the choice to start on the road that led to the Cross"?; we survey pivotal points in His life, take a quick survey of the Old Testament, including the Prophets, the Old Covenant, Moses's calling and even God's covenant with Abraham to try and discover a surprising answer. Join us on a journey of discovery as we each prepare our hearts to make the journey to the Cross in the coming weeks.
We continue our Sermon Series examining "who we are" as a church and "what we believe" by looking at what has become the most recognizable Baptist distinctive; Religious Freedom! Since soon after the reformation, Baptist have fought and died for the principle that true worship and true obedience to God can only come through the practice of free will. In this message we examine the history of Baptist and religious freedom, from our first statement of faith in 1644, to the founding of Rhode Island based on religious liberty, to our fight to insure the inclusion of religious liberty in the first amendment to our nations Constitution. We examine the scripture behind this principle and the privilege so many take for granted. We also discuss the misguided thoughts behind the idea of "separation of church and state" and the current battles being waged in America to diminish and destroy religious freedoms. From Galatians 5:1-10.
This week we examine Genesis 15-25 while stopping to examine the meaning and purpose of the Covenant that God makes with Abram. We explain the significance and similarities between the Old Covenant and the New Covenant. We also examine the identity of the person described as "The Angel of the Lord" all throughout the early Old Testament and how his identity can change the way we read the stories as well as reveal some new insight into New Testament theology. We also discuss how people in the Old Testament were made right with God that allows them to receive eternal life. From Wednesday night, February 21,2018
This sessions looks at the setting and background for Abram's journey to the "promise land" in Canaan. It would be helpful if you have a Map to follow the early part of the discussion. In most Bibles, you will find a Map in the back that shows the "World of the Patriarchs". This is the map we use for the discussion. We will also discuss Genesis 12-15 and Abram's journey to Egypt and his encounter with a strange king from Salem that could have New Testament ramifications. From Wednesday February 14th, 2018
We continue our study of what makes us a Baptist church and what we believe by looking at the Baptist distinctive of "Soul Competency" or "Soul Liberty". While those terms may not be familiar to many Christians, they are rooted in the idea that every person is created in the image of God and therefore accountable for their own actions and the consequences of those actions before God. This seems to run counter to our modern culture where instead of holding individuals responsible for their actions, we would rather find fault or blame, make excuses and rationalizations. We examine the danger this mindset can have on a nation, a culture and on an individual. Soul Liberty also holds that as each of us has equal access to God, we can also each read, understand and interpret God's word on our own and we examine the dangers inherent in misunderstanding this truth that can lead to legalism or license. From Romans 14:1-13.
We continue our examination of "who we are and what we believe" as Christians and the Church by examining what it means to be "Baptist". This message looks at the Baptist principle of "The priesthood of believers" and examines how it evolved from the reformation principle of "Solus Christus" and it's effects on our ecclesiology, or how we govern and minister as a church. While the idea that Christ is the only mediator between God and Man is not strictly a Baptist belief, when linked together with the principle that every Christian is a "priest" it forms the basis for our congregational form of governance as well as "who does" and "how we do" the ministry of the church. It also reveals the great privilege of direct access to God that every Christian has as well as the great responsibility that comes with that privilege. From 1 Timothy 2:1-6 and 1 Peter 2:4,9-10.
As we continue our new series "This is Us" by examining what we believe and why we believe it; we take a look at some of the key principles of what it means to be a "Baptist church". This week we examine the principle of Biblical Authority or what Martin Luther called, "Sola Scriptura" - Scripture Alone! Not only will we look at some key Bible passages that shed some light on this principle, but the history of this principle from the New Testament church until today. We also examine those things that other faiths and denominations might elevate on par with scripture when looking at our faith and practices and discuss the danger that a Christ follower might encounter when we stray from "Scripture Alone". From 2nd Timothy 3:10-17
We examine Abram's spiritual and physical journeys as he encounters God and moves his family to Canaan. A look at the original Covenant that God made with Abram and Abram's religious background. We also examine Abram's encounters in Canaan and Egypt.
An introduction to our series "This is Us" by examining the name "Baptist" and where it came from and what it means. We examine the issue of baptism by immersion, its history and why it is so important in a Baptist church. This new series will be examining what we believe as a Baptist church and why it is important as well as the history and heritage of our church as it relates to planning for our future.
Jesus tells the disciples in John 4 to "Open their eyes to the fields ripe for Harvest" after they seemingly missed an opportunity to share with the Samaritan women at the well. Has the church today fallen into the same trap of missed opportunities? Have we spent so much time focused on ourselves and our own spiritual growth and maturity that we have lost sight of our task? Do we even see these "fields" that Jesus was talking about? What will it take for us to get back to the place where sharing our faith and being Christ witness to those around us is our main priority, or is that even possible at this point? Join us as we discover how regain a "field focused vision" that will allow the Holy Spirit to open our eyes to all we have been missing. From John 4 and also is connected to the sermon theme from January 21st "A Fierce Urgency of Now"
In our new Wednesday night study we are looking at the Bible and its setting and context as it impacts all of History. This introduction looks at Genesis and the Creation story.
Is the Church more concerned with it's own survival over advancing the Kingdom of God? Have we lost our passion for sharing our faith? Have we emphasized spiritual growth at the expense of evangelism? Have we lost our sense of urgency? Join us as we discover how to regain a "fierce urgency of now" when it comes to sharing with others what is supposed to be the most important thing in our lives. If not us, then who? If not now, then when? From John 4:27-38
Psalms 46 has been used as a great source of strength and encouragement to those facing trials and struggles, but what if it was more than a source of comfort but rather a place to find confidence? The Psalmist encourages us to "Know" or "experience" God in a very real and tangible way in our everyday lives but this first requires that we "Be Still". What might that look like and what can we discover if we ever take the time to try it? Join us as we take a closer look at this powerful passage and unlock the keys to what might make your 2018 a year to remember! From Psalms 46
When does Christmas end? Is it on December 26th? Or maybe it is on January 7th, the end of the 12 days of Christmas and the celebration of the arrival of the Magi in many churches? While we debate and discuss how the beginning of the season keeps getting pushed back early and earlier into November, but what about its end date? Is it when we finish unwrapping that last present, or when the relatives all leave, or maybe when we take down all the decorations? In many Christmas stories and musicals, it seems to end with the arrival of the Magi, but in Matthews version of the nativity, he includes a couple more scenes that seem get overlooked and even left out. Might these 3 scenes bring some insight for when we can officially stop celebrating Christmas or maybe they suggest that Christmas is more than a seasonal celebration? Join us as we examine Matthews additional scenes and what role they might play in helping us in expressing the message of Christmas all year long. From Matthew 2:13-23.
When you read in 2nd Corinthians 11:21-29 as Paul describes some of the things he endured and overcame while sharing the gospel, you can't help but thinking "dangerous". But why would this simple, old theologian be in danger or even dangerous to those around him? It wasn't who he was that made him dangerous, but rather his message. Paul tells us in 1 Corinthians 1:18 that the message of Jesus Christ was foolishness, or offensive to those who are lost and that made it dangerous. For the last 2000 years, history is filled with stories about the followers of Christ who have been considered dangerous by those in power, by those who protect the status quo, simply because they identified and lived out the message of Jesus Christ. So what happened? Are Christians in North America still dangerous? Or for the sake of accommodation or acceptance and approval have we watered down or removed the very parts of the message that made it dangerous, the very parts of the Word of God that releases the power to change lives? Where are the dangerous Christians in our communities, our churches, our nation? To understand the problem, we must first identify what it is about the message that makes it so dangerous and then examine ourselves to see if we are truly living out that message in our everyday lives. From 1 Corinthians 10:31-11:1
In spite of what we see in our traditional nativity scenes, we don't know how many Magi/Wise Men there actually were, we don't even know when they arrived on the scene or where they really came from; so what role do they play in the story? Join us as we examine the purpose and message of the Wise Men and how their arrival brings both the Old Testament and the Death of Jesus Christ into the Nativity scene. From Matthew 2:1-12
It seems like you can't watch the news or get online without being overwhelmed with acts of "Evil" happening all around the world; church shootings, hunger and homelessness, marriages and homes dissolving and hate filled protest. We have a tendency to want to ask why? what happens that causes these events or these acts? The answer is simple; we live in an evil and fallen world and trying to understand it won't change it, trying to rationalize it won't change it, yet on this first weekend of Advent we find an answer; Hope! Paul closes Romans chapter 12 by reminding us that responding to evil with evil will never stop it or change it - the only thing that can overcome evil is good - and the Bible tells us that the ultimate good that overcomes evil is Jesus Christ. As followers of Christ, we do not live like those who have no hope, who fear evil,but with the understanding that evil can be overcome and one day it will be eliminated. Listen in to find out what that looks like in our everyday lives and how Hope can change everything. From Romans 12:21
The Apostle Paul warns us that if we claim to be followers of Christ, people will be watching us and for many people, the only definition of Christianity they will see is what they observe from your life. He tells us to be careful and strive to always do what is "right". So what does doing what is "right" mean, and what might that look like in our everyday lives? In Romans 12:17-20, he gives us several practical examples of how we can live out what we say we believe in a way that is not only "right" but is sure to catch the attention of those around us. Join us to discover what it looks like for a Christian to truly live out Christ example in a hostile world.
As the Apostle Paul continues to paint a picture of how the followers of Christ are supposed to live from Romans 12, he moves from our relationship with a specific group of people in verses 14-16, to a more general audience in verse 17. While at first glance it may seem to be just a simple instruction to "always do what is right" but when you examine the context and his word choices from the Greek language; it unlocks the keys to a lifestyle that has the potential to transform our culture. In a culture that has embraced Moral Relativism where what is "acceptable behavior" or how we define "right or wrong" changes and shifts according to popular opinion, our circumstances or the situations we face; Paul challenges Christ followers to a different standard. From Romans 12:17
We continue looking at character traits that will help or hinder our ability to put into practice "Blessing those who persecute us, bless and do not curse" from Romans 12:14. Much like stretching before you run or exercise; the Apostle Paul gives us some traits that will help stretch us spiritually and soften our hearts to get us to the point that we can learn to bless those difficult people in our lives - those who have betrayed us, bullied us, hurt or disappointed us. Learning to do this goes against our human nature and everything we are taught in our culture, so it is not easy, but for the Christ follower, it is not an option. In this message we look at both Pride and Prejudice and how prevalent and controlling they are in our lives and how they can both become a huge barrier to our being obedient to Christ command. We also discuss the fact that our ability to "bless those who persecute us" is not as much for those we are blessing as it is for us. From Romans 12:14-16
We were blessed to host Pastor Mark Brumbelow and his wife Cherry from Grace Baptist Church in Brazoria Texas to share how God has used their small rural church to do some incredible things with Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes. In 2015 their church of 40 members collected 5321 shoeboxes! Their goal this year was 6975 to bring their 3 year total to 15,000 shoeboxes which is an incredible amount, then Hurricane Harvey hit their area. All but one of their church families lost their homes in the flooding from the Hurricane and yet while many of them sheltered and lived at the church, they continued to collect and pack shoeboxes. Even in the midst of the devastation they were able to surpass their goal and this year packed 8031 shoeboxes to be distributed to needy children around the world. This is their testimony from our service on November 5, 2017. At the end we were able to surprise the Brumbelow's by presenting their church a gift of $5000. from the Hurricane Relief Offering we raised on Harvest Day. Listen and be amazed and blessed by God's vision, providence and ability to still do miraculous things in and through our churches.
As a follow up to last weeks sermon from Romans 12:14 where Paul commands Christ followers to "Bless those who persecute us, bless and no curse". Knowing that this command goes against our human nature and can be so difficult to live out; Paul follows up in verses 15-16 with some practical examples of how we might prepare our hearts to be able to bless those who have persecuted us, betrayed us or hurt us. In today's message we look at the first two; Practicing Empathy and Promoting Harmony. Join us to discover what it really means to be empathetic and how showing empathy to those who hurt us might soften your heart in your response. We also discover that promoting harmony might mean sacrificing our need to always be right, or always be heard, or to always have the last word. From Romans 12:14-16
All of us have people in our lives who have hurt us; some intentionally, some by accident and some never even realize the pain they have caused. We have people in our lives who betray us, who bully us, who lie about us to get ahead. People who make fun of us, who talk behind our back, who spread rumors about us - just plain old fashion "Mean People". In response to these people, we spend a crazy amount of time, effort and energy planning our revenge, our retaliation or at the very least we love to dream about all the bad things we wish would happen to them. Good News! The Bible gives us a very clear and concise response on how to respond and handle these types of people in our lives. If you have even been picked on, betrayed, bullied, hurt, lied about or left out - this message is for you. From Romans 12:14-16
Terms like "authentic" and "community" have become the new Christian buzzwords. You find them in purpose statements, on church signs, on our logos and in our orders of worship; but do we even know what they mean? Are we advertising something that we are not providing or even producing? Have they simply become cliché's to an outside world who finds more community at their local bars, gyms or sports fields? In Romans 12, the Apostle Paul lays out several building blocks and behaviors that can turn a religious gathering into an authentic community if we are willing to listen. In a culture with a hunger and desire to "belong" to something or somewhere; what is the local church offering? From Romans 12:9-13
How do we define love? How do we define how we are supposed to love others? Sure we can describe what love looks like, or it's attributes or characteristics but can we define it? What about God's love? If Christ followers are supposed to "love others the way God does, or the way God loves us", what does that mean? The problem with coming up to an answer for that question is everyone has their own definition. In Romans chapter 12, the Apostle Paul gives a pretty good definition for not only what God's love means but also how our love for one another should be defined, but it is not as clear cut as most of us would like. When he uses the word "Hate" to define God's love it can bring some confusion. Join us as we dig deep in Romans 12:9 to discover what "True, Sincere and Genuine" love means and how it can radically transform each of us as well as the church and the culture we live in
How do we determine if we are a healthy and growing Christian? How do we determine if our church is "healthy"? Some would point to external factors; size, attendance, programs, growth - others might look at the past and determine progress made - but do those really reveal health? For years we determined a person's health by looking at their weight and height then finding on a chart how those two compared to the average. The only problem with that was that different people carry weight differently; what might be healthy for one person, might be different on another. So doctors and researchers began to factor in "body shape" to determine what was "healthy" because each person is unique. The same is true in the church and for individual Christ followers; we are all unique and different - with different gifts and talents and different "calls" on our lives. So like an individual, one of the ways we can determine our "spiritual health" is by looking at our SHAPE. Join us as we examine Romans 12:3-8 and discover how each one of us is uniquely SHAPED for ministry and service and how our SHAPE determines the direction and health of our church.
It had been well quoted that in the average church 10% of the people do 90% of the work and while that may not be the case in many churches, a Gallup Poll found it close to reality. Even more disturbing is that the same poll revealed that of the 85-90% of church member who are not serving or working in their churches, 50% said they could not picture any circumstances where they would get involved. Is it any wonder that churches are closing their doors across America at a record level or that our cultural is turning more secular faster than anyone could have ever imagined - half of the church is sitting on the sidelines. Jesus never intended that someone who calls themselves one of His followers would not be active in ministering and serving in His church. Join us as we look at what the Apostle Paul taught concerning how we are to be involved in ministry and why. From Romans 12:3-8
We live in a very self absorbed culture. Our social media sites are filled with "selfies" and other pictures from our day to day adventures. Our self worth seems to hinge upon how many views or likes we get from our media post on the various apps we can't help but check at every waking moment. We are eliminating grades in school for the same reason that everyone now gets a trophy for simply showing up. We have allowed the culture and popular opinion to define us according to it's subjective standards that always seem to be changing to the point that many people no longer recognize the person they see staring back at them from the mirror in the morning. The Apostle Paul makes it very clear in Romans 12 that for those who claim to be followers of Jesus Christ, the greatest change in our lives should first take place in our minds - the way we think, our worldview and most importantly, the way we see ourselves. The way we view ourselves is pivotal to the way we see and treat others, and foundational to our ability to grow spiritually. Join us as we identify several wrong ways of thinking that have permeated and defined many Christ followers identities and how that has affected the church and our witness. From Romans 12:1-3
In a recent USA Today survey people were asked what would be the one question they could ask God. Over 80% responded that they wanted to ask God, "What is your will for my life? What is my purpose?" Even in the church, many long time Christians still struggle with the idea of "God's Will" and purposes for their life. Does He have a specific will for me and if so, How can I know it.? God's will is one of those spiritual principles that we have made a lot more complicated than it should be. The Bible is very clear and even direct when it comes to God's will, even His personal will for our lives. The problem is not in the discovery, the problem is in the application. Join us as we look at Romans 12:2 and not only discover what God's will is for each one of us, but also why it is so important that we live it out - experience it!
We live in a rapidly changing culture and it is having a profound effect on Christians and the Church. Behavior and lifestyles that only a few years ago seemed abnormal or out of the mainstream are now not only accepted but even celebrated. The lines between how society defines good and evil and right and wrong are being blurred and it is happening at such a pace that many in the church don't know how to respond. As personal experience, circumstances and opinions are elevated over any form of absolute truth the world does not need our conformity or for us to blur the lines about what we believe and stand on as found in God's word; the darkness needs a light! So how do we respond? How do we show grace, mercy, and love to those around us as we reach out to minister and share the Gospel without compromising what we hold dear? The Apostle Paul lays out some simple principles in Romans 12:1-2 that might hold some answers. Join us as we continue our study from these foundational verses and examine our individual and corporate worldviews and how they effect our thoughts, beliefs, principles and the way we live them out.
As we continue looking at Romans 12:1, we examine the ideas behind individual worship and what that might look like in the church. The reason many people today struggle with worship is related more to what they are willing to give than any various worship styles. Worship must always include a sacrifice and it starts with each of us willingly giving every part of ourselves to God and everything else that we do flows from there. If we struggle with giving, if we struggle with our prayer life, if we struggle with singing in worship, if we struggle with serving; the first place to examine is the altar of our heart and see what we have sacrificed.
If you pay attention to the media, it would be hard to miss all of the articles, books and reports declaring the decline of the Christian church in America. From falling attendance numbers, shrinking membership roles to declining conversions, it seems like there is no good news for the American Church. But are we really in a crisis or is this simply just a correction? Could it be that over the last 30 years the church has lost sight of its mission and purpose and what we are experiencing is simply God's way of calling it back to Him? We begin a new series based on Romans 12 that suggest the answers might be found in the Apostle Paul's call for believers to become "Living Sacrifices". Join us as we discover what that really means and how it has effected not only the churches in America, but individual believers and their ability to see the power and purposes of God for their lives. In the introduction to this series we examine Romans 12:1 and ask the question, are their "Too Many Empty Altars"?
A recent survey found that people had greater success naming the kids on the Brady Bunch than trying to name the 10 Commandments. The second most recognized Commandment was the fourth; "Honor the Sabbath and keep it Holy" yet most people could not really explain how we are supposed to do that in today's church. It is often one of the most misunderstood or controversial commandments and it is the only commandment that is not quoted or revised in the New Testament. Nowhere in the New Testament are we asked to follow this commandment and if you study the Gospels you will find that it is the only commandment that Jesus did not keep. So what happened, and does it still apply to Christ followers? Is the Sabbath supposed to be on Saturday or Sunday or does it even matter? Join us to discover some interesting truths about this important commandment and how it is not only relevant for the church today, but it is a gift from God that can change our lives if applied correctly. From Exodus 20; Exodus 31; Colossians 2:16-17.
While Americans gather this weekend to celebrate our Independence and Freedoms; churches on Sunday will be full of people singing and celebrating their spiritual freedoms, yet many remain in bondage. In Galatians 5, Paul reminds us that until we experience true spiritual freedom and understand what we have been set free from, we will struggle to walk out those freedoms. For many Christ followers, we simply exchange one bondage for another and never really understand how free we are; free to offer ourselves in worship, free to love our neighbors, free to honor God in our lifestyles, free to share our freedoms with others. When you have really been set free, it is not enough just to gather once a week and sing a few songs about it - we must LIVE it.
If you want to make people uncomfortable in church just mention the word "change"! While we are willing to strive for some personal change, when it comes to changing how we do church, or what we do at church, or even a line on the order of service; we are much more hesitant or even resistant. Yet, for the church to reach the next generations, we must change and adapt. It is not a matter of compromising belief or standards - but rather examining our structures, our prejudices and our preconceived notions and seeing how they line up with what God is doing around us. Using the passage from 1 Samuel 16 again, we look at David and all the changes he brought to the nation of Israel for some insight into the types of changes that we need to make if we will carry the anointing and power of God into the future.
In 1st Samuel 16:1, the nation of Israel and its future was at a crossroads. God has just taken His anointing away from King Saul and was moving towards the future by sending the Prophet Samuel to find and anoint the new king at the home of Jesse. But Samuel was in mourning for his friend Saul, and had no idea what God's plans for the future involved and what he might find while looking for this "new king". Join us as we look at how Samuel allowed God to use him to become a bridge between the past and the future and discover the parallels with the struggles the church is finding as it strives to reach the next generation. Samuel was willing to "Stand in the Gap" on behalf of the Nation of Israel and become a bridge from Saul (the past) to David (the future). Where are the Samuel's today that will help us move the gospel and our churches out of the past and into the future?
People today love to take pictures, we have whole social media platforms like Snapchat and Instagram built around sharing our pictures with the world. In a recent survey, high school and college students use their phones more for taking pictures than phone calls. With the explosion of picture taking, the arrival of quick self editing using "filters" has followed suit. Most of the pictures we see on social media have been edited in some way using our built in 'filters" but the problem with these filters is that they can distort reality. We start a new "min-series" of 3 messages looking at an unfiltered snapshot from 1st Samuel 16:1 and three people's lives and interactions with God. This message examines King Saul and how he went from God's man in Israel to yesterday's news. Examining what it means to have "God's anointing" and how Saul lost it, we look at our lives "unfiltered" and what that same "anointing" means to each of us, as well as our churches.
Depression is one of those topics you don't hear discussed much in church, yet it is said 20% of all Americans (1 in 5) will suffer from serious depression in their lifetime. Currently almost 19 million Americans suffer from some sort of clinical depression and a recent study found that 36 % of all teenage girls have suffered a significant depressive episode or consider themselves depressed. The Bible is full of examples of those who suffered from depression; from Moses, Job, Jeremiah, David and Elijah, the Bible speaks out on depression. Many of the Psalms give voice to those struggling with depression but the church has remained silent or depended on trite responses and false perceptions like; "You just need more faith" or "You need to Love Jesus more". All around us people are struggling and suffering in silence and it is time for Christians and the church to bring depression out of the shadows and deal with it. Listen in to find what really dealing with depression should look like! From 1 Kings 19, Psalms 40, Psalms 43, Psalms 102:1-10.
As we wrap up our study on the Sermon on the Mount, we ask the question, "Why does it matter?". Why is the sermon so important? Why do many consider it to be one of Jesus's greatest teachings? To help find some answers, we look at how the original listeners responded? What did they think, and what difference did it make to them? While many today try to separate Jesus from the life lessons found in these passages, to those sitting around Jesus, listening intently as he taught- Jesus was the message. It was His authority found all through these 3 chapters of Matthew that made the difference and it is His authority that makes the difference today. Listen in to discover how these verses can move from truth to transformation in every area of your life. From Matthew 7:28-29.
Join us as we learn some important lessons about the influence of a Mother's Passion. We hope to redeem a Mother who has received a bad rap in the New Testament as well as gaining a few examples for all parents to follow when it comes to our children's spiritual future. From Matthew 20:20-28
In every letter that the Apostle Paul writes to the various churches he warns them about false teachers. Numerous times throughout the Gospels, Jesus warns about false teachers but none clearer and more direct than what is found at the end of his Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 7. He is very pointed in calling out those He calls "wolves in sheep" clothing whose intent is to build up their own kingdoms, their own power and their own prosperity at the expense of deceiving those looking to follow Christ. He then goes on with a scary and heartbreaking warning about the end results of those who get lured into these false teachings by describing what will happen when they stand before him in judgment at the end times. Instead of hearing "Welcome in my good and faithful servant", Jesus warns they will hear "Depart from me, I never knew you". We have a clear warning, we see the results of the deception but what is difficult to understand is how it happens. How does a sincere and spiritually seeking person get caught up in the web of false teaching? This message strives to answer that question by warning when each of us is vulnerable to the influence of false teachers. No one is exempt from falling for these lies that can lead to destruction; so what can we do to protect ourselves and those we love? Join us as we examine when sheep are the most vulnerable to predators, because the same is true for seekers and false teachers. From Matthew 7:15-23.
While many consider Jesus words in Matthew 7:21-23 to be the most shocking or heartbreaking of the entire New Testament, others would love to bypass, overlook or rationalize them away. After warning about false teachers or "wolves in sheep's clothing", Jesus now confronts the end results for those who fall into the trap or are lured away by those teachings. What makes the teaching so startling is that He is clearly talking about good, sincere and religious people who are inside the church and have said all the right thing and done all the right things and yet when they stand before God in judgement, they will be rejected. This passage makes very clear that not everyone will be saved and even more striking, some who think that are saved will still be rejected. What is clear is that one day everyone on earth will stand before God and give an account for their lives and they will only hear one of two responses; "Welcome in my good and faithful servant" or "Depart from me" and the difference between those two answers has nothing to do with how good you might have been or how many good things you might have done or even if you know Jesus - the difference will be does Jesus KNOW you. From Matthew 7:21-23.
People have been using and blaming God for their own profit and gain, to build their own kingdoms and to justify their sinful actions and behavior since the garden of Eden. False prophets and false teachers claiming to speak for God are scattered all through the Old Testament, but as Jesus establishes His church he knew it would only get worse. In every letter/epistle the Apostle Paul wrote to his various churches one can find a dire warning against false teachers and the dangers they bring to both Christ followers and the true church. So it should not surprise us that as Jesus brings one of his greatest teachings to a close, he emphatically warns about false teachers calling them "wolves in sheep's clothes". He predicts that when Satan was not attacking the church, he would be joining it and over the years Satan has sowed more destruction through imitation than he ever could with outright opposition. Luckily for us, Jesus did not just give a warning - he outlined a way by which we could determine and discern whether a teacher/ preacher was a true Shepherd or a wolf in disguise. Join us for this very timely message about false teachers and the destruction they reap in every corner of the Christian world. From Matthew 7:15-20.
The Apostle Paul encourages the Church at Philippi to "Work out your salvation with fear and trembling" in Philippians 2:12 as an encouragement for them to never stop examining their own hearts and motives. Jesus spends the better part of the end of his Sermon on the Mount on the same topic giving several metaphors and illustrations calling for self-examination. Yet you will not hear it discussed much in today's "church world" for fear of causing people to "doubt" their salvation. So we propagate a cultural Christianity where assurance comes from a date written in the front of a Bible, on a baptismal certificate or on a emotional memory from our youth instead of a changed heart. Jesus is pretty clear that each of us have one of two choices, the wide gate and the wide road or the narrow gate and narrow road. There are no exceptions, no compromises, no middle ground and the reality is that if you have not chosen the narrow gate found in Jesus Christ, you are already headed down the wide path and your choice has been made for you, but Easter reminds us that it is not too late to make a U-Turn and change your destiny. Join us as we continue our sermon series and celebrate the Resurrection and Easter. From Matthew 7:13-14.
Many love to quote Matthew 7:1, "judge not least you be judged" yet that passage is found in a section of Jesus' teaching from the Sermon on the Mount that puts a spotlight on what could be defined as "judging". We are told not to be self-righteous or hypercritical in how we respond or treat others and we are warned to never try to take God's role and authority as the ultimate judge of peoples hearts and motives; yet the entire chapter is a call to evaluation - self evaluation! Using several metaphors and parables, Jesus teaches that their is a clear delineation between those who are His disciples and those who are not, and he calls those listening to his Sermon to evaluate their own hearts, motives and actions to see where they stand. He starts this call for evaluation by describing how prayer, worship and their outflow determines the heartbeat or pulse of a healthy Christ follower. Listen in to check your own spiritual pulse. From Matthew 7:7-12
In our current culture, it doesn't take long for anyone who states a conviction or belief that might runs counter to modern PC group think to receive the admonition, "Judge Not least You Be Judged". It seems that is the "go-to" response on Facebook, Social Media, Blogs, Websites and sometimes even in person anytime we might express a biblical conviction about sin or sinful behavior. My first reaction to reading or hearing this response is to quote Inigo Montoya from "The Princess Bride"; "I do not think that word means what you think it means!". Taken out of context, the words of Jesus from the Sermon on the Mount might seem to call us to be more "tolerant", but is that what he really means? What about the context of those words and the verses that follow? Do they back up this interpretation? What about other New Testament passages or even Jesus' own words later in the same sermon, do they? Join us as we discover what Jesus meant when he called us "Not to Judge" in Matthew 7:1 and the profound responsibility those words carry for those who choose to "follow Him". From Matthew 7:1-6.
Worry is not only something that can affect your health, your sleep patterns and stress levels but according to Jesus IT IS A SIN. We don't like to think of it in those terms, but God does. Worry and Anxiety rob your joy, diminish your worship, corrupt your faith and reveal that you really don't trust God according to Matthew 6. Jesus unpacks a convicting illustration to his earlier teaching on what we invest our time / talent and treasure on and who we really serve by proving that the wrong "temporary" investments will always reap worry, stress and anxiety and the right "eternal" investments will reap contentment, joy, peace and faith. Why do we worry? It is simply a lack of faith in God or the results of placing our faith in the wrong things. Tired of sleepless nights? stress related stomach problems? Feeling overwhelmed? Luckily for us, Jesus ends his illustration with a very clear suggestion and some practical steps we can take to make worry and anxiety a thing of our past. From Matthew 6:25-34.
In Luke 18 when Jesus is asked by the "rich young ruler" what it takes to "inherit eternal life" Jesus responds by calling him to "sell all you have and give the proceeds to those in need". Was this a specific command for this one person or is it something He expects from every follower? In our series from the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus seems to be encouraging his followers to invest their time/talent and treasure in eternal things over the temporary things of this world - but it is only a suggestion and not a command. What is the difference and how does it relate to those of us today who are followers of Christ? Maybe the issue was not that the "rich young ruler" had money but rather that his money HAD HIM. Listen in as we discuss what it means to only serve one master and the consequences that occur when we try to serve more than one. From Matthew 6:24
Is it possible for God to be moving in our midst and we not know it? Could He be opening doors and providing opportunities and yet we are unaware? What did Jesus mean when he warned "He who has eyes to see, let him see"? As Jesus continues to encourage his followers from his Sermon on the Mount to invest their time/talent and treasure in things that have eternal value, he also warns that for some followers, it may be difficult to recognize what has eternal value and what is only temporary. Join us as we strive to understand his warning and what it might mean for us today as well as what Paul meant when he prayed that God would "open the eyes of their hearts" for those believers in the church at Ephesus. From Matthew 6:22-23.
We make investments every day; we invest our time, we invest our talents and we invest our treasure on those things that we think are important. As Jesus continues his teaching from the Sermon on the Mount aimed at calling his followers to a higher standard; he warns that while we may pay lip service about what is important to us - the true devotion of our heart is always revealed in where we have invested our time, talent and treasure the most. Join us to discover how those investments that we make, not only reveal the condition of our hearts, but also have eternal significance. From Matthew 6:19-21.
In James 5:16, The King James Version translates James' promises that "the effectual, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much". In a more modern translation it is given as "The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective", another says "The effective and passionate prayer of the righteous works" yet most followers of Christ would not honestly describe their personal prayer life as being "powerful" or "effective" and even fewer might say that they feel it "works"; so is James wrong or are we missing something? If Jesus tells His followers in the Sermon on the Mount that we now have his righteousness and that the powerful Holy Spirit is now dwelling inside of us, why is prayer so difficult and why do many Christians not feel their prayers are effective? Is it the way we pray, the amount of time we prayer or maybe it is the words we use? In the middle of his teaching in the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus slips in what many consider to be the greatest model of prayer ever given. We call it the Lord's Prayer and most believers can quote it but do we really understand the power behind the words? Do we understand the purpose of how they are arranged and used? Do we realize that this simple, yet economical prayer holds the keys to unlocking a passionate and effective prayer life for every Christian? Listen in as we examine our own prayer lives in light of Jesus' powerful example. From Matthew 6:5-15.
As Matthew 6 transitions from Jesus encouragement for his followers to develop and pursue spiritual maturity (perfection) from Matthew 5; Jesus follows up with a warning. He warns his followers here in Matthew 6 to be on their guard not to fall into the same trap that had ensnared the Pharisees when it came to their spiritual disciplines. Using the examples of prayer, fasting and the giving of our resources; he reminds us that it is not the act, but rather the heart and motive behind the act that counts. This mornings message focuses on "giving" and how we can allow it to both lose it's power and cause us to miss out on the rewards if we are not careful. Learning to give of our resources is not so much dependent on our ability to open our wallets or write a check as it is completely submitting our hearts to the Holy Spirit. Listen in to learn about the true rewards of giving as well as how to test your motives when it comes to being obedient. From Matthew 6:1-4.
At the end of Matthew 5, Jesus encourages his followers to strive to "grow up" spiritually; to grow into mature believers. This growth starts with a changed heart that is totally submitted to the control and leadership of the Holy Spirit and leads to certain spiritual behaviors that not only help us continue to grow, but also allows us to use the gifts he has given us to impact others. Jesus starts Chapter 6 of Matthew with a stern warning for those seeking spiritual maturity to guard their hearts and motives to keep from falling into the trap of putting the acceptance and approval of men over the obedience and glory of God. Join us as we examine those "spiritual disciplines" and the danger that can arise when we loose focus for why we are doing them. From Matthew 6:1
Can a Christ follower ever be "perfect"? Is that even a possibility? Not sinless - that is impossible as long as we live in these fleshly bodies; we will always struggle with sin - but perfect? Paul tells the church at Philippi in Philippians 3:12 that he has not been made "perfect" but he continues to pursue it. In Hebrews 6:1 we are told to move on from elementary teaching towards perfection, and in the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 5:48, Jesus calls his followers to "be perfect as our Heavenly Father is perfect". Would Jesus really call and command us to do something that was not possible, or achievable? So what is this "perfection" and why does it hold the key for totally changing our lives, our families, our churches and our culture in the new year? Listen in to discover how "perfection" is not only attainable, but expected for anyone committed to "Following Jesus".
The very first Christmas had its share of interruptions and disruptions so why should we be surprised when our Christmas plans don't go as we had hoped or planned. So many of us dream of creating the perfect Christmas memories; usually along the lines of a Norman Rockwell painting, and what we get is a Clark Griswold Christmas with our own version of cousin Eddie, lights that don't work and burned meals. Instead of letting these interruptions become learning moments or even memories of their own, we allow them to rob our joy and even ruin our holidays. Join us to learn how the first Christmas could have been a disaster and yet God used it to change the world and discover how your unexpected interruptions might just be great opportunities for the same results! From Matthew 1:18-25
When confronted with how we are to respond to someone who has hurt us, or is taking advantage of us, or even suing us; Jesus gives a curious answer that speaks directly to the heart of a his followers. In Matthew 5:41 Jesus directs his follower that if they are compelled to carry someone's burden for one mile, they should go two. To his original listeners, this spoke to a Roman law where a soldier could compel any able bodied man to carry their packs or loads for one mile - for the rest of us, it speaks to a transformed heart. He simply implies that those who choose to follow him should be know for going beyond what is expected or required in meeting the needs of those around them - going the second mile! Listen to today's message to find out what that might look like in our everyday lives. From Matthew 5:38-42.
With the recent Presidential elections over and after a nasty and ugly campaign, one thing is pretty obvious; regardless of which candidate you supported - the character and integrity of a candidate no longer matters to a majority of Americans. Both candidates trustable rankings were in the low 30 % meaning that over 70% of America did not trust or believe the word of either candidate and yet the same people who said they did not trust or believe a candidate went on to support and vote for that same candidate. We make excuses like "someone's private life" shouldn't effect their "public life" and yet that is the exact same argument Jesus was dispelling in his Sermon on the Mount! The religious leaders came to believe that as long as everything looked good publically, as long as you followed the prescribed rules - you were spiritual/righteous; Jesus came along and said they had missed the point! Here in Matthew 5:33-37 He argues that it is our private lives - the condition of our hearts that holds the key to everything we do and His followers cannot separate their private faith from their public lives. He does so by explaining why integrity and truthfulness are so important; why character matters, why our words, our promises and commitments matter! It was a counter cultural message in His day, and even more so today!
Jesus continues his Sermon on the Mount by dealing with the controversial topic of Divorce and how it relates to his followers and the new righteousness that He has introduced. We examine the Old Testament precedent and the context for Jesus' words found in Matthew 5:31-32 as we get to the heart of how divorce affects us both spiritually and culturally. While the scriptural stand on divorce may be confusing for many today, Jesus words and meaning are very clear and have lasting consequences. Join us for this message that looks at this painful and often ignored subject.
In Matthew 5 as Jesus continues to give examples of the new standard he requires for those who would follow Him; he looks to the 7th Commandment for guidance. "Thou Shall not commit Adultery" sounds like an antiquated rule from a long ago past; when is the last time you have heard someone describe an extra martial affair as "adultery"? We use more flowery term today like "An Affair" or "a Fling" because those don't seem to sound as bad as "Adultery". Regardless what we want to call it - the consequences are the same; the destruction of the family, the watering down of what commitment and covenant mean and the breaking of God's heart. The good news for most of us is that we will never commit adultery, it is not really an issue for a majority of those in the church so I guess we can pat ourselves on the back and move along until we hear the words of Jesus linking a "lustful look" with the same consequences as adultery itself. Does Jesus really suggest that sexual lust can destroy families and marriage commitments? I He saying that inviting someone into our heads is no different than inviting them into our beds? Join us as we dive in to the Sermon on the Mount. From Matthew 5:27-32.
In Matthew 5:17-20, Jesus warns his follower that while they may no longer be subject to the spiritual punishment of the moral law from the Old Testament that does not mean it is no longer important and valid for their lives. Just the opposite; whereas the Pharisees and religious leaders righteousness was based on obeying the letter of the law and only concerned with the act itself - The new righteousness that Christians are called to follow requires a high obligation - our motives and thoughts behind the act. We are called to Holy living and the path to that holy living is obeying the commandments of God through the power of the Holy Spirit, but Jesus adds a further obligation by reminding us that transformation starts in the heart and effects every part of our lives, so while the acts we commit have consequences, we cannot forget that our thoughts and motives have consequences as well. He spends the rest of Chapter 5 giving 6 examples of what this looks like lived out. This morning we examine the 1st and probably most important of the examples - anger. Most believers do not realize the effect that anger can have on their worship and relationship with God, even when we do not express it but just allow it a place in our hearts. Listen in for an important reminder from Jesus' most important sermon. From Matthew 5:21-26.
If you had to use a metaphor to describe the value of someone or their character; what would you use? We say things like, "they are gold" or a "treasure" or worth a "million bucks" "priceless", a few years ago it was a great compliment to be called "the bomb" but what about "salt". That doesn't seem like a real flashy compliment but it is the term that Jesus used to describe his followers. Of all the metaphors he could have used, why salt. To understand what he is saying about his disciples, you need to discover how important salt was to the culture in ancient Rome and Jerusalem. While it may lose some of its meaning in our culture - the power of his description still resonates. Whether we want to believe it, or even understand it - "Being Salt" is a part of the very nature of a Christ follower. From Matthew 5:13.
Around the world, thousands of the men, women and children face persecution and even death simply because they identify themselves as followers of Jesus Christ. Yet here in America we tend to think of religious persecution as a rarity instead of reality. We tend to think that Jesus suggested that His followers might face some persecution when the truth is that he clearly declared that anyone who worships Him and strives to live their lives according to His principles; will face persecution and even death! No suggestion, no "might" or "if's" but a certainty. In the last, and most troubling of his Beatitudes, Jesus makes it very clear what his followers can expect from this world. Persecution is a given - but He also suggest it is an incredible gift as well. Maybe the reason many have not or don't face persecution in America today is that those around us have not seen Jesus in our actions and words. Maybe we have become so much like the culture that we no longer stand out or stand up. Listen in to discover not only how persecution can bring a blessing, but how it is the ultimate result of living the other seven Beatitudes. From Matthew 5:10-12
Most of us have been told from time to time that we might look like one of our parents, or maybe even sound like them. We can't help it; our genes play a role in the inherited traits and spending the first eighteen to twenty years of our lives around them play a major role in the learned traits. Whether we like it or fight it; most of us end up seeing our parents influences lived it in our own lives. What about our Heavenly Father? As Christians we are called the "children of God" and are a part of the family, so what do we do or say that most sounds or looks like our Heavenly Father? Or a better way to ask might be, "When do we most resemble God?" While the easy, sunday school answer might be, "When we love" because the Bible does teach that the world will know we are his followers by our love; but that is followers, or disciples - what about His children? When do God's children most look like their Father? Jesus gives us some straight answers in His Sermon on the Mount and the 7th Beatitude, and you might be surprised at the answer. Listen in to discover how we are called, gifted and commanded to follow in the family business and when we do, we most resemble our Father. From Matthew 5:9
Have you ever looked back on your life at times when you faced difficulties, struggles or life changing events and could clearly see the hand of God at work? Like the poem "Footprints in the Sand"; you could see where God carried you, where He opened doors, where He provided for you, where He brought people into your life to encourage and support you. How would you like to not have to wait until after you have passed through the valley to see God at work? How would you like to be able to see Him moving mountains in front of you, see Him performing miracles, working in our midst, changing lives? In the 6th Beatitude from the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus teaches that it is not only possible but a promise to those who are "pure in heart". It is not just a promise for those we think of as "Super- Christians" but for every follower of Christ. Listen in to discover how you can claim this promise and why Holiness and Purity still matter. From Matthew 5:8
Jesus begins his most famous of Sermons by painting a picture of the character of a Christ Follower in what we call the Beatitudes. It is a great description of who a Christian should be when they submit themselves completely to the control of the Holy Spirit. The first 4 of these character traits all deal with the relationship between a follower of Christ and God. The next four are the natural outflow of the first four and relate to how we interact with those around us. The first of those four is being Merciful and in an interesting twist, the promise for the merciful is the same as the action, "Blessed are the Merciful, for they shall receive Mercy". Sadly, many in the church misunderstand this promise to mean that they can earn God's mercy by showing others mercy. Not only will this thinking not produce mercy, it robs the believer of the joy, peace and blessings that come from trusting in God's grace and in His loving and merciful nature. Join us as we examine and strive to understand this very important character trait that is missing in the life of many believers and churches. From Matthew 5:7
In this study of the fourth Beatitude, Jesus promises that those who hunger and thirst for the presence and power of God will be filled, but what does that look like in a practical sense. How can we hunger and thirst for something like God's presence. Join us as we examine how the actual Greek words Jesus used unlocks the key to pursuing God and finding real joy and happiness. Many in the church are no longer spiritually hungry and the results are obvious in our personal lives, the spiritual vibrancy of the church and in our lack of influence on the culture. The promise Jesus makes for each one of us is that until we pursue God's presence and power in our lives with the same passion and determination that God used in pursuing us; we will never be satisfied, or content.
Jesus promises joy, happiness and blessings to those who are meek and gentle, yet the world seems to offer just the opposite. Those who chose the path of following Jesus will always exhibit meekness, but just what does that really mean and if Jesus described himself as meek - what happened when he overturned the tables in the temple? What about when he confronted the religious leaders? Believe it our not those two instances were probably the greatest examples of His meekness. Listen in to discover what meekness really means and how a life of meekness can not only eliminate stress and heartache but also comes with a promise for those who pursue it. From Matthew 5:5
How can someone who is sad actually be happy or blessed? Once again Jesus offers the ultimate paradox as he challenges his followers to find internal joy, happiness and blessings in the midst of mourning. As we look at the 2nd Beatitude Jesus introduces in His sermon on the mount, you might be surprised to find this is not your normal mourning or sadness. Jesus is challenging those who would follow him to allow their hearts to be broken over what breaks God's heart with the promise of comfort and ultimately happiness as a result. How does that happen and how does it effect your relationship with God and the world around us? Listen in to find out. From Matthew 5:4
(This is the first half of the sermon from August 14th, the conclusion of the message can be heard in Part Two.) What does it mean to be happy? How can we attain happiness? A recent pew research poll found that only 1-3 American describe themselves as happy - that is 33%, so 67% of American are unhappy. We live in the most prosperous nation in the world, with more wealth, benefits and comforts than ever before and yet we are still unhappy? Maybe we have been looking for happiness in the wrong places! Join us for this introduction of the Beatitudes from Matthew 5 and the Sermon on the Mount from our new Series "Following Jesus". From Matthew 5:3.
(This is the second half of the sermon from August 14th, the beginning of the message can be heard in Part One found below.) What does it mean to be happy? How can we attain happiness? A recent pew research poll found that only 1-3 American describe themselves as happy - that is 33%, so 67% of American are unhappy. We live in the most prosperous nation in the world, with more wealth, benefits and comforts than ever before and yet we are still unhappy? Maybe we have been looking for happiness in the wrong places! Join us for this introduction of the Beatitudes from Matthew 5 and the Sermon on the Mount from our new Series "Following Jesus". From Matthew 5:3.
An introduction to the Sermon on the Mount discussing the importance of slowing down and unplugging to be able to hear the voice of God. We also discuss the various applications for the Sermon on the Mount and why it is considered the Greatest Sermon every given. From Matthew 5:1-2.
This is an introduction to our new Sermon series on the Sermon on the Mount from Matthew 5-7. This introduction looks at the call for every Christian to be a follower of Jesus Christ and what that really means. We look at the true meaning of Spiritual Freedom and Grace and the two abuses of that freedom; legalism and license. This message deals with the trap of spiritual license and how it corrupts our ability to follow Christ. From Galatians 5:13-15.
This message examines the Call and Vision of FBC Blowing Rock - We discuss what our purpose statement means for each church member and follower of Christ. We explain what is means to be a "place to Belong, a place to Believe and a place to Become". It also cast a vision for the coming year.
In the Old Testament, fathers would gather their children around them, lay hands on them and pass along a blessing. Can Father's still pass along a blessing to their children in our modern culture? If so, what would those blessings be? Join us as we encourage and challenge fathers on how they can give their children the freedom and blessing to grow into who God has called and created them to be. From Genesis 49. Father's Day 2016
When you examine the life of Joseph, one has to wonder how he was able to overcome all he was faced with - all of the betrayals, the struggles, the loneliness. What was their about him that allowed him to place his faith completely in God regardless of the circumstances? In the last story we have of Joseph before his death in Genesis, he is visiting with his brothers after their fathers death and in this conversation, he reveals the "core values" that motivated and guided him to be used as an instrument for God's plans. Each of us have core values that help us develop our character and worldview - how do ours match up with Joseph's? From Genesis 50
Many Christians can be heard saying, "It would be much easier to follow God if He would just show me where we are going" and one can understand the frustration and even fear from that statement. But if God showed us where He was leading us it would not require faith; it would simply be instruction. Learning to listen to the voice and word of God and trust Him is part of the maturing process of a Christ follower but how can we know if we are following in the right direction? Join us as we discover how Jacob/Israel overcame fear, doubt and his past history to step out on faith and trust God for a new future. From Genesis 46:1-7
Most Christians will not question that we are called to forgive those who have hurt or disappointed us; the words even come easily off of our lips, "I forgive you" but have we really forgiven them? The standard for forgiveness according to scripture (Colossians 3:13) is to forgive as Christ forgave us- that is a high threshold that most of us struggle to achieve. Joseph had given total forgiveness to his brothers and as he reveals himself to them and they experience a great reunion, he walks out that forgiveness and gives us a great example of what real and total forgiveness looks like. Join us as we discover how we can really know if we have forgiven someone. From Genesis 45:1-16
At one time or another most of us have disappointed others and lost their trust or lost our trust in someone. Trust is one of those things we take for granted until it is lost and once it is gone; it can be very difficult to restore. For most of us, it is easier to just give up on that person and walk away; but as Christians, grace calls us to a different path. If their was anyone who had a good reason to give up and walk away, it would be Joseph. Yet, he committed himself to seeing his family and their relationships restored and that required rebuilding trust. Join as we discover the importance of restoring trust and some steps you can take to begin the process. Genesis 43-44
Even the most optimistic person can allow the struggles and difficulties of life to turn them into a pessimist. We are surrounded with sensational and negative news everyday and it seems like once things turn against us they pile on. A bad day turns into a bad week and continues to grow. Join us as we discover how Joseph's dad Jacob/Israel allowed himself to be consumed with negative and pessimistic thoughts to the point that it clouded his vision, stole his joy and almost made him miss out on the ultimate blessings from God. Each of us face the same dangers when we allow pessimism to rule our hearts. From Genesis 42,43.
Joseph's wild journey has seen him go from slavery to prison to the palace of the Egyptian Pharaoh and now it comes full circle as he is confronted with where it all began - his family. Many people fail to realize that their most important mission field is their own family; brothers, sisters, parents, children and grandchildren. For some that might require some restored relationships. Join us as we discover how Joseph's path to family restoration opened up new opportunities for ministry. From Genesis 42.
As Joseph lived out the success of a new job, new wife and kids, new place of power and influence he was surprised to find that this new path led to a familiar place - home. As he comes face to face with his brothers, the very ones who began his now 20 year journey abroad, he is confronted with the idea of revenge or reconciliation. From Genesis 41-42.
Joseph's life had plenty of struggle and disappointment - dysfunctional blended family, beaten and sold into slavery by his brothers, falsely accused of sexual harassment and sent to prison for doing the right thing, 10 long years languishing in prison and in the blink of an eye he stands before the greatest leader of the largest kingdom on earth. From prison to the palace in one step and he is given a new job, new wife, money, prestige, influence, he has it all - he was literally "Living the Dream" - but the telling question for each of us is "When did he start living the dream?" Join us as we discover how Joseph captured his memories without letting them capture him and along the way truly defined what it means to "live the dream" for each of us. From Genesis 41:50-52
How can you know if God is opening a new door for your life or ministry? How can you know if you will be ready when the opportunity comes? Are you ready today? What if the answer to achieving all of your dreams presented itself today - would you recognize it? would you be ready to follow? Join us as we look at the life of Joseph as he walks through an open door that changes his life and becomes the fulfillment of all his dreams. From Genesis 41
Ever been disappointed or let down by someone close to you? Ever felt betrayed by someone you trusted or even a family member? Join us as we discover how our response to these disappointments can sidetrack or even destroy our God given dreams. From the life of Joseph, Genesis 40,41
While patience may be a virtue, it is a rarity in society today. We are a generation of instant gratification - we want it now; and that has crossed over into our walk of faith. We expect instant results but the Bible teaches us that some of God's greatest lessons come during a period of waiting. Moses waited for 40 years herding sheep on the backside of a desert before God called him, Paul cooled his heels in Arabia for 7 years and even Jesus waited 18 years before starting his public ministry. It seems some of God's greatest lessons come while we wait. In this message we examine how Joseph not only endured but thrived while waiting 13 years in prison for God to open the next door. Do you find yourself waiting? waiting for the perfect job? waiting for Mr. or Mrs. Right? waiting for an open door or opportunity? waiting for an answer from God? waiting on your dreams? For the Christian, waiting is never wasted time - their is always a reason and purpose behind it. Give a listen and discover what God may be trying to teach you while you wait! From Genesis 40.
As you pursue your dreams, you will encounter trials and difficulties; their will be times when you will feel all alone and even abandoned. It is in those moments that God is preparing you for what is to come. How do you respond when things don't go your way? when things don't turn out how you planned? We need to remember that God is not so much worried about the circumstances in our lives as much as he is how we handle and respond to those circumstances. Join us as we learn a few lessons from Joseph on handling adversity and trials. From Genesis 39.
All of us struggle with temptation; it is a part of life. We are tempted materially, personally and even sexually. It is not a sin to be tempted; even Jesus was tempted in the wilderness and overcame it. The sin comes from how we respond and nothing can short circuit a dream like personal sin. Regardless of what the culture contends, we each have the ability to walk away from temptation - to say no! The life of Joseph gives us some great lessons on facing temptations and how we can overcome the seductive pull they have on our lives. From Genesis 39.
It is easy to look at people who have achieved great success in their various fields and admire them or even be envious. If one was to look at the end of the book of Genesis and read about Joseph's success, we might admire him. A former prisoner from a foreign land who has risen to become second in command to the Pharaoh of Egypt, a beautiful wife and two sons, surrounded by his brothers and their families, put in a position to save the nation from a great famine - what is not to admire. The only problem is that most of us would not be willing to walk the path and endure the pain, suffering and struggle he faced to see his dreams become a reality. The difference between having big dreams and seeing big dreams become a reality is the amount of faith and trust we are willing to place in God when the path we are on becomes difficult. God never promised us it would be easy to do His will or follow His way, but He does promise it will be worth it! Have you allowed obstacles, distractions, struggles or pain to keep you from chasing your God given dreams? Join us as we discover how Joseph overcame all of those and more to see his dreams fulfilled! From Genesis 37
All of us face dream killers in our lives. They can either distract and discourage us from following our God given dreams or make us stronger and more determined. Join us as we identify some dream killers that Joseph faced and how he overcame them and gain some lessons on how we can overcome our own "dream killers". From Genesis 37.
At least nine times in the Old Testament it is implied that the sins of the father will be passed along to future generations (his children and grandchildren). Since both the Old and New Testaments are clear that each of us is only accountable to God for our own actions, what could these verses be talking about? As we begin our new series on the life of Joseph, we take a look at his background and childhood to examine the possibility that his father and grandfathers actions might have created "Generation Strongholds" in his life and how he overcame them. Join us as we examine what a "Generational Stronghold" is and how it not only effects each one of us but also our children and our children's children. From Genesis 37:1-4
Join us as we examine a few things that we have allowed to become sacred cows in our personal lives and in the life of the church that have the potential to become idols. Many of these are good, if not great things, that were created or given to us as a way to help develop a deeper relationship and walk with God but over time many of these things have become items of worship themselves. Anything that hinders, detracts or gets in the way of our worshiping and serving God has become an idol - even good things like a worship style, or a denomination, or even certain doctrines. You might be surprised at how these things grow from a sacred cow to an idol and what the end results can be on us as individual believers and on the church. From Matthew 12:1-14.
Is God interested in our New Years Resolutions? to lose weight? to be a better parent or spouse? What about our spiritual resolutions? to pray more? to read the Bible? to go to church? Do they ever really make a difference in the long run? Join us as we discover the only real resolution that matters and how changing our perspectives might make a difference in 2016. Philippians 3:12-16
As many take down the decorations and move on to the celebration of the New Year, one has to wonder; when does Christmas actually end? Is it after the presents are opened? when the decorations are down? when the kids go back to school? Who says it has to end? Join us as we discover the key to celebrating the message and meaning of Christmas all year long. Matthew 2:13-23
Is there a real War on Christmas? Are people trying to remove Christ from Christmas? If so, when did it start and why? Does it really matter? How are Christians and the church to respond? Join us as we conclude our series on cultural topics by looking at what many today are calling a "War on Christmas" and how it affects the church and Christ followers. Matthew 2:1-5
The recent Pew research religious survey and study found that 72% of American's identify themselves as Christians and yet 64% of them say that "many religions and paths can lead to God and salvation". So less than 35 % of identified Christians believe that faith in Jesus Christ alone is the only way to eternal life and a right relationship with God! One of the core and foundational beliefs of Christianity and only 3 out of 10 Christians hold it as a conviction? So who gets to decide what it means to be a Christian? Join as we examine the Rise of a Cultural Christianity in America that has a "form of godliness but denies the power of God". Why is this happening and growing and what can the church do to change direction?
With the recent Supreme Court ruling that strived to redefined the definition and description of marriage in the United States - the church's response has been varied. The argument seemed to settle around "rights" - the individuals right, a couple's rights and what feels right but has anyone asked what scripture says "Is Right"? God created and defined the covenant of marriage between one man and one women for greater purposes than a civil union - it is a picture of Christ covenant with his bride - the church; and any effort to redefine or "put asunder" what God has created, corrupts this picture. This is one reason that sexual sins are so destructive. Join us as we discover not only why Biblical marriage is so important, but how the church is called to respond to those caught up in alternative lifestyles.
In the last several weeks it seems everyone has had an opinion about the growing Refugee Crisis in Europe and how the United States should respond. Social Media has blown up on the topic, Political candidates all offer their opinions and solutions, Christians seem to wrestle with the conflict between compassion and security; but what does the Bible say? If all we had to go on in forming our opinion about this issue was the voice of God in His Word and the leadership of the Holy Spirit, I wonder how different it might be from what we have been expressing. This is one of those issues where God's word is not silent and offers a challenge to each one of us as we strive to answer the question, "Who is my Neighbor?".
**The video that was shown during the middle of this message can be found here; https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RBjZ7kpTLrs
Should a Christian drink alcohol? Did Jesus drink wine? Was it real wine or more like grape juice? What does the bible say about alcohol? Is it wrong for Christians to drink socially? Even if it is not against scripture - is it beneficial? We examine all of these questions and more as we take a practical look at scripture and how it relates to alcohol and the church.
The churches historical answers for depression and suicide have always been things like "You just need to have more faith", "If you loved God/Jesus more you wouldn't be depressed" and the like. While they may be great "Sunday School answers" they don't address the underlying issues that cause depression and suicide and they certainly don't minister to the families and friends caught in it's path. Depression is at epidemic proportions in the United States and if we claim to be "pro-life" we have an obligation to step up and engage those struggling around us. What can we do? Listen to find out....
A follow up to last week's message on "All Lives Matter". This message looks at the issues of Euthanasia; including doctor assisted suicide and even "passive euthanasia" where life giving measures are withheld. We also address the problems with claiming to be "Pro-LIfe" and yet supporting Capitol Punishment and the death penalty. The question is are we going to be consistently pro-life or just conditional. We also look at how someone with a biblical worldview that is pro-life must re-evaluate their responses to issues like poverty, adoption, homelessness and even immigration.
Since 1973 in the United States of America over 50 million preborn Babies have been murdered for the sake of convenience and we shrug our shoulders and remain shamefully silent and indifferently passive. Most in the church would proudly proclaim their "pro-life" stance but what does that mean and how has it influenced our lives? People make the excuse that Abortion is a very complex, divisive and political issue but that Bible proclaims that the sanctity of all life is a very clear, vital and moral issue! So what can we do? How can live our lives in a way that consistently advocates for life? Join us for this first part of two messages on "All Lives Matter". Part 1 deals with Abortion. From Jeremiah 1:5
The "State of the Church" message on where we have been and where we are going. God's vision and purpose for First Baptist Church of Blowing Rock. From our annual Harvest Day joint worship service.
How can a Christian explain what they believe and why they believe it if they are not comfortable with the Bible. A recent survey found that 88% of American have a Bible in their home with the average home having 4.7 Bibles, yet only 52% of Christians say they read the Bible at least once a week. Only 62% of Christians say that the Bible is their source of authority and truth - so what do they other 40% use as a measurement for what is truth? It seems we don't have a cultural problem as much as we have a Bible problem in the church. Join us to discover the importance of God's word on how we are to engage our culture. From 1 Timothy 3:14-4:4; Galatians 1:6-10.
Many sociologist believe that America is headed toward becoming a post-Christian nation, much like what Europe experienced in the past 50 years. As the culture and morals of our nation change, how is the church to respond? How can we carry out the great commission and still stand up for our convictions and values? Do we really even know why we believe what we say we believe? Can we back it up with scripture and explain it in a manner that allows room for grace, mercy and love? Join us for this new series that will examine many of the culture changes we are encountering as well as looking at some of the popular "hot button" issues as we explore why we believe what we believe and what that means moving forward in a possible hostile environment. This Message is an introduction and lays the foundation for the series. From 1 Peter 3:13-17, Matthew 5:10-16.
Have you ever wondered how to pray for someone? From last weeks message we discovered we are to pray specifically and continually for other believers but what do we pray for? In Romans 15:30, Paul asked the church "I urge you brothers, by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to join me in my struggle by praying for me". He seems to indicate that through our prayers for others we can invest more than a few words but we can actually join their struggle, come alongside them and join them as they face the circumstances of life. How is that possible? Are you tired of praying general, generic and rote prayers? Would you like to pray in such a way that you become invested in what you are praying for - and better yet would you like for others to pray that way for you? Join us as we discover the answers to those questions as Paul offers a final word of encouragement to the Church at Ephesus through The Ultimate Prayer Request. From Ephesians 6:19-20.Add a description here.
Prayer is one of the most under utilized elements in many Christ followers lives, yet it is the most powerful tool available for releasing the power of God. As the Apostle Paul wraps up his teaching on Spiritual Warfare and the armor of God, he emphasizes the importance of prayer. Prayer is what empowers our spiritual protection and armor and Paul is very specific on how, when and what we can pray to see this power released. The surprise comes when we realize who the recipients of this power releasing prayer are. Join us as we discover how the Church and our fellow Christians play a role in our spiritual battles. From Ephesians 6:18.
What does it mean to "put on the full armor of God"? We have armor? What is it for and where do I get mine? What does Paul mean about this "day of evil" that is coming stuff? Join us as we examine Paul's teaching on Spiritual Warfare and the Armor of God from Ephesians 6. Discover some very practical examples of how these spiritual truths can clothe you with the power of the Holy Spirit and empower you to face whatever this world throws at you.
Explore the role and responsibilities of a Christian when it comes to Spiritual Warfare. From Ephesians 6:10-17. Part two of our look at Spiritual Warfare from our Study in Ephesians.
First in a mini series on Spiritual Warfare - This message serves as the introduction to what Spiritual Warfare entails and the nature of the battle and the nature of the enemy we are fighting. From Ephesians 6:10-13
How do you measure the mark of a successful parent? Good grades? athletic involvement? well rounded? get into a good college? popularity? Many parents consider themselves a success if they can keep their students from the dangers in our culture like drugs, alcohol, premarital sex, trouble with the law. What about as a Christian parent? Shouldn't the goals for our children be different and based on the Bible - and what does the Bible say success looks like? Who is responsible for children and teenagers success? Parents? Grandparents? The Youth Minister? The Church? Join us as we examine Ephesians 6:1-4 to discover that success and the American dream are not the same as Biblical success and that raising Godly kids has less to do with what they do or don't do and more to do with Who they are.
Wives Submit? Husbands do what? That sounds so archaic and out of touch. The reason we struggle with Paul's encouragement to Husbands and Wives in Ephesians 5:21-33 is because we have forgotten what Marriage was intended to look like. We have settled for mediocre and blah or bailed out when true biblical marriage is so much more. To help us put Paul's teachings from Ephesians in context, you must go back to the beginning - Genesis 2!
We have always been taught to thank God in the midst of our trials and struggles and even during the storms of life; but what about after they are over? Paul teaches that the Christian that is under the influence and control of the Holy Spirit will not only thank God in the storm, they will thank God FOR the storm! Think of the most difficult and trying times of your life; a time of pain, struggle and suffering. Can you thank God for that season of your life? Should you? Join us as we explore why it is so important for Christ followers to be grateful and thankful for everything in life - even those seasons of struggle. Discover how your spirit-led gratitude can change your life and your perspective. From Ephesians 5:20.
"I just don't like to sing, it is nothing against the hymns or choruses". This statement is becoming more commonplace in worship every Sunday as more and more believers mumble through the song portion of worship. The problem with that is you have the dynamic Holy Spirit of God living inside you and He has a Song to sing. Maybe we need to examine our hearts to find out why we are quenching the Holy Spirit's song each week and discover how that is affecting your day to day lives.
Should Christians drink alcohol? Should Christians drink wine? Is wine evil? This passage from Ephesians 5 answers none of those questions and it is time we stop trying to make it say something it does not. It also does not imply that when a Christian is filled with the Spirit they will "act like a drunk". It also does not say that the amount of Holy Spirit we have is insufficient and we need a "second blessing" or a refill - Find out what Paul is trying to say when he reminds the Christians of Ephesus to "not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery, instead, be filled with the Holy Spirit". A little clue to help; it has little to do with you getting more Holy Spirit and a lot to do with the Holy Spirit getting more of you!
Are you seizing the day or is the day seizing you? Do you look back and wonder, where did the time go? You might be living accidentally. Paul warns the Ephesian Christians to "make the most of every opportunity", to live with a purpose and be intentional! Join us to find out how! From Ephesians 5:15-17.
Many today think that the way we need to reach our nation and world for Christ is to be louder. We need to make a more vocal stand in the political arena or be more vocal about our morals and values. Paul would suggest from Ephesians 5 that their is a different solution. What is going on in our nation today and the moral and spiritual decline is not because we have not been loud enough; it is because we have not been LIGHT enough! Taken from Ephesians 5:7-14.
Many believers do a great job trying to protect themselves from immorality but forget a rather simple way for it to seep into our lives. Join us as we explore Paul's warning; not only about sexual immorality and all that includes, but also about our language and how that influences our desire to imitate Jesus. His warning also gives us some insight on how Christ followers and the church should address the sexual laxity of our culture. From Ephesians 5:3-7.
Easter Message from Ephesians 5:1-2. We know about the smells of Christmas and Thanksgiving but does Easter have a smell and if so, what does it smell like? Join us as we discover how the sweet aroma of Easter surrounds us daily!
Jesus promises a full and abundant life; but what does that mean or even look like in our culture today? Is it a life without pain or suffering? a life of wealth and prosperity? And if it is something we can experience or even a promise from scripture - how do I get in on it? Join us as we continue our study from Ephesians to discover some principles to experiencing a full life. From Ephesians 4:25-32.
Can a Christian lose their salvation? Can they lose their relationship with God? Why do so many Christ followers lives seem no different than those that don't follow Christ? Find the answers to these questions as well as learning how most spiritual battles are won or lost before we ever act by joining us as we examine an important warning from the Apostle Paul in his letter to the church at Ephesus. From Ephesians 4:17-24.
Is Spiritual growth a requirement, an expectation, or an option for the Christian and why is it so important? The Apostle Paul warns that if we are not growing up spiritually we are growing apart in our relationship to God. There is no status quo for those that follow Christ, no places to settle in or camp out. The Holy Spirit compels us to grow and if we are not growing it is because we have made a conscience choice. Join us as we discover why spiritual growth is so important and what happens to us when we are not growing. From Ephesians 4:12-16.
A Continuation from the message on January 18th, "Moving Forward Together as One". From Ephesians 4:7-10
How important is unity in a church? Without it, a church cannot function, grow, serve or be effective. It is so important that as we move into the more practical aspects of Ephesians, Paul prefaces the promises and power of the church on whether or not they are united. A divided church is a dying church and too many churches have allowed disagreements to turn into division and that division turns into death. Join us as we discover the keys to unity and how we can have healthy disagreements and still move forward as a united body following God's leadership. We also address some of what has happened here at First Baptist in the past 18 months and the faithfulness of God as we move forward. From Ephesians 4:1-6
Everyone loves to claim Philippians 4:13, "I can do All things". We see it quoted on Facebook, Twitter feeds, we sing about it, memorize it, even claim it as a Biblical promise. The only problem is that before you can attempt the "I can" you must claim the "I am" (small letters). So many of the Biblical promises and principles that Paul lays out throughout all of his letters are based on the premise that you can not achieve them in your own strength. We can try, and many of us do, only to grow frustrated and fall away. To achieve the prescriptive sections of Paul's letters (where he gives us some encouragement on how to apply God's word to our lives) we must realize that it will take the power of the Holy Spirit working in and through us. That can only happen when we begin to see ourselves the way God has now recreated us to be as new creations. Join us as we continue our study in Ephesians and discover a bridge that allows principle to become practice. From Ephesians 4:1-3
Do New Years resolutions ever really work? We all start with the best of intentions and yet so many people never achieve their New year's goals. Why not this year, instead of making new resolutions, we strive to discover what God might want for lives? Could you use more of God's power in your everyday life? in your relationships? your marriage? your church? God's power is directly tied to our finding and following His will for our lives. Where do you find God's Will - God's word. Join us as we continue our study from the book of Ephesians as Paul makes the turn in Chapter four from principles to practice. From Ephesians 4:1
"God is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine" These words from the end of Paul's prayer in Ephesians chapter three get passed around, misquoted and posted as a promise on Facebook on a weekly basis. It is used to encourage people that God is always working out something bigger in our lives than we expected, but is He? and is that what this verse promises? The Bible is clear that God can, and will work in and through our lives in ways beyond our imagination but Paul is reminding us here in Ephesians that the power of God does not come down from on high - but out - out from the Holy Spirit's work in our own hearts and lives. Join us as we examine how each one of us can expect great things from God in 2015 but only if we are willing to attempt great things for God.
If God has given us everything we need to live and experience an "abundant life" while here on earth; what do I need to do to start experiencing it? In what many call the "heart" of the book of Ephesians, the Apostle Paul lays out some key principles that allow the Christ follower to move from reading about "biblical truths" to experiencing them in your everyday life. Are you experiencing power in your spiritual life? in your marriage? as a parent or grand-parent? Join us as Paul explains how you can move your life from "Park to Power" like shifting a car into 1st gear. From Ephesians 3:17-19
Many of you visited relatives over the thanksgiving holidays; some of you even spent the night with them in their home. Did you feel welcomed and at home or did you feel like you were crashing their party or cramping their style? Most of us have experienced the difference between a house (some place to stay - roof over your head) and a home (a place where you feel safe, welcomed and like family) but what we don't realize is that the Holy Spirit can tell the difference in our hearts. While the Holy Spirit comes to live in us at conversion, how we treat Him determines whether he just has a place to stay or a home. Paul tells us in Ephesians 3:17 that when He has a place to "dwell" or a home in our hearts; his power reaches in and through us to touch every area of our lives. Join us to discover the difference between a heart that is just a house and a heart that is a home. From Ephesians 3:14-17.
Sometimes the hardest part of forgiving is forgetting. Even after we have moved on from something or someone, the memories still hold us captive and can rob us of our joy and intimacy with God. How can you stop allowing memories from your past from hindering your future? We can learn a lot from Joseph and his life's story in Genesis. How does what Joseph named his firstborn son help us learn to forget? Join us for this timely word that interrupted our Ephesians series - it may be just for you. Genesis 41:52-53.
Have you ever wished that God would give you some insight into what lies ahead in life? Maybe just a clue about our relationships, or our job future, or even our health? Wouldn't it be awesome to know what was going to happen tomorrow or the next day? The Apostle Paul reminds us that there is a reason we don't have that ability; a reason why our future can seem mysterious and unknown and it is called TODAY. "Today is the day that the Lord has made! let us rejoice and be glad in IT". Life is mysterious for a purpose. Join us as we continue our series from Ephesians by starting Chapter 3 and taking a lesson from Paul on making the most out of the mystery.
Have you ever felt like you did not belong? Like you did not fit in? Ever walked into a room and everyone stopped talking? All of us have been on the outside looking in at one time or another but the Apostle Paul explains that for God's children that is no longer a reality! We belong! We are now a part of a family that we don't have to try to impress or be something we are not to get accepted - Listen and find out how God provides for you a family that fits. It could make all the difference in the world!
We all have walls in our lives; barriers that we create to either keep people out, or to help keep parts of us in. We build them in our marriages and our relationship, we build them at work and in our community; we even build them at church! The Bible is pretty clear that Jesus came to break down barriers and walls. He destroyed the wall that separated man from God but he also destroyed any reason for us to have barriers or walls between us and others in our lives. Walls keep us from being honest and genuine but they also keep us from intimacy with God and others. Listen as Paul describes the dangers of walls and how we can tear them down piece by piece. From Ephesians 2:11-22
Have you ever tried your best at something and it was still not good enough? Maybe at a job or in a relationship or trying to make a life change? You give it everything you have and yet you still feel inadequate? The good news is that the first step in overcoming your inadequacies is recognizing that you have them - recognizing that for some things in life and in certain circumstances; your best will never be enough. That doesn't sound like good news does it. I doubt it would make the title of a "self help" book but Paul explains in Ephesians 2 that it is at that very moment that the "not so good news" becomes "Great"! It all revolves around a little word that is talked about and sung about almost every week in churches around the world and yet we still struggle to understand it; Grace. Listen and learn how Grace can change even the worst of your circumstances and situations and make your "not good enough's, more than sufficient!
What is the best "before and after" picture that you have ever seen? Was it a weight loss miracle? A makeup makeover? What about a house that someone flipped or a car that was completely overhauled? We love to hear and see "before and after" pictures and stories. They encourage us with potential and hope, but what if someone was doing a "before and after" about your life? What would be the turning point, the moment that your "before" became and "after"? Paul encourages the Church at Ephesus here in Ephesians 2, by pointing out the greatest "before and after" story every told and unbelievably, you and I are a part of it. Listen and discover how God can take a "hot mess of a life", a pretty disturbing "before" and turn it into a beautiful "after", a masterpiece.
This message from our Harvest Day service tackles the issue of what happened to the Church at Ephesus from the time of Paul's prayer in Chapter one to the conclusions we hear about in Revelation 2. How did they go from redeemed Saints, exploring their inheritance in Christ, to 'loosing their first love"? It remains a problem today in both churches and individuals. We lose our passion and purpose and instead of searching for what happened, we just try harder, add more works and programs and hope it will come back. It is time we found the real solution to what is ailing our powerless churches and purposeless believers - join us for some answers from Paul's simple prayer in Ephesians 1:15-23.
What does it really mean to be a "child of God"? Should it make a difference in how I live? worship? interact with others? As a child of God, a "joint -heir" with Jesus, and a part of the family; does that mean I get an inheritance? We have heard hymns and choruses proclaim these themes, probably even sung or said the words ourselves - but what does it really mean? and does it really matter? Join us as we find out just how incredible an inheritance you already have and what it might mean for your future. From Ephesians 1:13-14
We sing songs and hymns about being "redeemed", we read about it in scripture, and sometimes a Pastor or teacher may throw it out there; but what does it really mean? It is not a common word we use today so for many Christians the real meaning is never fully grasped. Since many fail to understand it, we fail to realize just what the Bible is saying when it calls us "The Redeemed". Join us as we look at Ephesians 1:7-10 as Paul explains the power and promises that come with redemption. True freedom and real forgiveness can be yours. Would you like to experience freedom from your past, from your mistakes, from your regrets? How about a true and lasting forgiveness? Give it a listen.
There are video clips flooding the internet of a prominent Pastor's wife proclaiming to the church, "We don't come to worship for God - we do it for ourselves - we do it to make us happy and God's greatest desire is for our happiness". Through all the controversy and opinion being thrown around about this quote - what does the Bible say? Here in Ephesians 1, the Apostle Paul clearly proclaims that "it is not about us"! We were created and redeemed for God's glory and God is more concerned with our holiness than our happiness. Join us as we continue our look at Ephesians 1:3-6 and how God's plan of salvation was around long before you or I were ever around yet we "get" to be a part of it.
When did God decide to send Jesus as a sacrifice for the sins of man and a means for man's salvation? Why did he do it? Was it so we could go to heaven? be forgiven? have a relationship with Him? The answers to these questions take us into the deeper waters of scripture, into some of the central truths of the New Testament and leave many believers breathless. While the answer is simple; the impact it can have on our day to day living is profound. Do you dare wade into the deep end? The discoveries can be life-changing. Join us as we dive into the wonderful truths of Ephesians 1:3-6.
The Apostle Paul starts this wonderful letter by reminding Christ followers that not only are they a "totally new creation" but also that they have been given the most incredible blessings available. You don't have to wait for them, your don't have to earn them, you don't have to pray for them; they are already yours! The question is not what more can God give you - the question is what are you doing with all you have already been given? Our need is not to receive something more but to do something more with what He has already given us! Join us as we continue our introduction to this new series and you might be surprised to find out all that you already possess to live an incredible and abundant life. From Ephesians 1:3
What do you call those that identify themselves as a follower of Jesus Christ? What do you call yourself? "Christian" "Christ Follower" "Sinner saved by Grace" ? Does it really matter? The Apostle Paul thought so and rightly identified the faithful believers in Ephesus as "Saints" . Do you think of yourself as a "Saint"? If not; it could be the reason you find yourself struggling to embrace and claim all of the blessings and promises of God that are yours in Christ Jesus. It could be the reason you find you have a powerless faith. Join us as we kick off our new series from the Book of Ephesians and discover that it is foundational for Christ followers to understand their new identity in Christ. It matters because your identity will influence and direct your destiny!
What does a healthy looking church look like? What makes it effective? Jesus gives us some hints when he visits the temple and has a run-in with the religious leaders and over turns some tables. Is he still in the table turning business? Join us as we examine Matthew 21 and this famous incident and how it relates to the modern church and each of us as individuals.
Church bashing is all the rage - everyone wants to "follow Jesus" just not be a part of the "church". The only problem with that is, following Jesus MAKES you a part of the church - you don't have a choice. The church is the means by which Jesus chose to change and empower the world and trying to "follow Jesus" apart from the church is like being a suited up and talented football player that has no team to join. You can have great uniforms, be the fastest guy around and have incredible skills but if you are not on a team - you will never get in the game! Listen as we discuss how members of a healthy and effective church are very similar to members of a championship sports team.
Many church leaders would say that one of the greatest problems they face in the church today is the lack of commitment from the members and those involved. Everyone likes to sign up to help, or shows up for the planning rally or even come to the first meeting but as time goes by; they drop out, wander away or just plain quit. The problem is that the Bible never calls us to give it our "best effort" or "try harder" or even "up our commitment level". Jesus calls those that want to follow him to "complete surrender". The church and Christians don't have a commitment problem, we have a surrender problem. Listen to how Jesus responded to three different guys who were not quite sure how committed they could be to following him. From Luke 9:57-62
All you seem to hear about today is how much trouble the church is in. Denominations are shrinking, baptisms down, church attendance slacking off, losing a generation; everyone has an opinion. Online blogs, magazine articles, even whole sermons relegated to listing everything that is wrong about the church; but what about all that is right? This hand wringing and finger pointing about the church being down and out and on it's last legs might come as a shock to the one who calls it His Bride. It's time we start focusing, preaching and talking about what's right about the church and a good place to start is at it's founding. Is the church dying? NOT HARDLY!
What makes a true servant serve? If it is not for the recognition or the fame, if it is not because they feel guilty or convicted or that they are somehow trying to pay God back; then what is it? Jesus tells us in Matthew 20 that the greatest in his kingdom will be the one who serve others - so what makes a servant tick? Join us for this message as we dissect and examine the heart of the Apostle Paul and learn how each one of us can develop a true heart of a servant.
What does a "healthy church" look like? How do you know it is healthy, and how did it get that way? Doctors will encourage us that the quickest way to better health is through exercise - but what about the church? How does it "exercise"? Join us as we look with the Apostle Paul and his diagnosis of a healthy church and the promises that come with good health. From Ephesians 4:11-16.
Can a Christian have a "spiritual" mid-life crisis? Is it possible for our faith, walk and worship to become routine? Have you ever found yourself going through the motions spiritually or felt like you were in a rut? All of us from time to time, regardless of age or how long you have been a Christ follower, go through seasons of our faith when what was once Awesome has now become ordinary. How can you guard against this happening? What can you do to get out of this pattern? Jesus gives us some great advice from our passage and you might be surprised to find out it has to do with your inner child!
It has become a worldwide blockbuster, making over a billion dollars before ever being released on video. It has spawned countless number one musical hits; earned an Academy Award for it's signature song "Let it Go" and has been the "go to" soundtrack for children and preteens all winter and spring. It is a fun and entertaining movie but did you know it was based on a Christian short story by Hans Christian Anderson? Released in 1844, "The Snow Queen" has influenced everyone from C.S. Lewis, who used its imagery in "The Chronicles of Narnia" to the current Disney blockbuster. If you get past the catchy tunes and the funny characters there are some important lessons for Christians of all ages. Join us as we learn why letting it go may be a solution to reaching both outside and inside the walls of the church. Based on John 13:34-35 - this message was recorded in our traditional service.
Wouldn't it be great if the heroes of faith from the Bible could speak to us and give us some practical advice for living a faith filled life. What do you think they would say? How did they do it? While we don't have actual words of advice from many of the characters we have studied in this series; the writer of Hebrews does end the great "roll call of faith" chapter with some words of wisdom for each of us about walking a life of faith. Join us as we finish the Found Faithful series with some everyday advice and words of encouragement from those who have walked the walk. From Hebrews 12:1-3
Most of us can think of someone from our past whose influence on our lives has been significant. A coach, a teacher, an older teenager, a relative, someone from church, a co-worker. Someone who took the time to encourage, believe and speak into your life and yet they probably don't even realize the difference they made. Even the Apostle Paul had someone that found him at a very vulnerable time and literally got him back on his feet again a changed man. Faith always builds on Faith; someone poured into our lives and we are called to reinvest. Join us this morning as we look at the difference Ananias of Damascus made in Pauls life with one simple act. From Acts 9. (taped in the early service on April 27th with special guest worship leaders from the Appalachian State Baptist Campus Ministry worship team and a taste of Bluegrass)
Who were the two men that took Jesus off the cross and buried him? Why them? Where were the disciples? What motivated these two Pharisees, members of the Sanhedrin, the very council that condemned him to death, to risk everything to make sure Jesus was buried in a tomb? Join us for this Easter message about faith coming out of the shadows and how it affected that first resurrection Sunday. From John 19:38-42 ; Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus.
Are deathbed coversions real? If so; why are we so bothered by it? Could it be we misunderstand grace? Could it be we misunderstand what really saves us? Find the answers in Jesus' last conversation on the Cross. Palm Sunday from Luke 23:38-43
If you had to describe what real, genuine, worship looked like; what words would you use? kneeling? standing? hands raised? crying? reverent? shouting? singing? It is a trick question. Worship is not about the expressions we use but rather a matter of the heart. Those words describe the ways we express our worship and really don't indicate the heart of the worshiper. Too often, we get caught up in the "how's" of worship and argue and debate which way or expressions are "more genuine" or "spiritual" and neglect the "why's of worship". Join us this morning as we examine the lives of two very different people who had an opportunity to worship and how they responded, but more importantly, why they responed the way they did. That is where our Faith comes in. Based on Luke 7:36-50.
Many Christians are great at sharing "what" they believe, but not so great at "why" they believe it. When it comes to the "why's" and the difficult questions of our faith, we often fall back on our Christian cliché’s and catch phrases and end up building barriers to the very people we need to be reaching. We are called and commanded to build bridges and engage our culture with the Good News not build walls! Join us and listen as we discover the story of two very different men that would not allow walls or barriers to keep them apart. On a dusty dessert road; one following the Spirit and one searching for truth combined to teach us all a great lesson on the power of faith! From Acts 8:26-40.
How much faith is enough? Is this a simple question with a complex answer? Enough to do what? To see someone healed? To see a life changed? To move a mountain? Join us this week as we discover the story of a women who "had issues" and yet had enough faith to find physical, emotional and spiritual healing. How much faith did it take? You might be surprised at the answer. All of us "have issues", even if we don't like to admit it or we are not desperate enough yet to want to deal with them - but they are all too real. Listen to find out how God can take our "issues" and make them an opportunity. From Luke 8:40-48
The Bible tells us quite a bit about John the Baptist; we know about his prophetic birth to Zechariah and Elizabeth, his very active public ministry, his baptizing Jesus in the Jordan river, his flashy fashion sense, his strange diet and even his death at the hands of Herod. But the question we examine with this message is; what was it about John that attracted so many people? His personality? His reputation? You might be surprised with the answer and in the process discover why Jesus called John "the most important man ever born". From John 1:6-9, Matthew 3:1-3
What is your favorite love story? Maybe from literature like Romeo and Juliet or maybe from the movies or even some TV characters? What about the Bible? We don't always think of the Bible when we think of love stories but it contains the greatest love story of all time; How much God loved you and I. Join us as we look at the complex love stories we find in the Book of Ruth, and along the way learn some lessons on developing a faith that never quits.
The three Hebrew boys hanging out in the fire with Jesus; rescued and called out, clothes not touched, the evil king repents, happy ending! But what happens when there's no happy ending in sight? What about the first deacon, young Stephen, whose powerful ministry was cut short by a hail of stones and his broken lifeless body left on the street? Was his faith any less than Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego? In spite of many false teachings and misunderstandings of scripture; God never promised he would get us out of the fire, but rather through the fire! Sometimes he does; there's a divine healing,a deliverance, supernatural miracles - but more times than not, the world presses in on top of us. Making it out is not where faith is involved; it is found in God's promise that we can make it through the fire (or the stones, or the bad doctor's report, or disease, or the trials and sufferings of this world). Join us for this timely message that discovers hope and peace in the midst of our "fires". From Daniel 3 and Acts 6-7.
All over the world; from the middle east of Egypt and Syria to the Far East of Indonesia and China. From the Sudan to Central America; whole families and individuals are facing job loss, poverty, hunger and persecution and some are even facing death. They did not commit a crime, it has nothing to do with politics or race; it is simply because they have placed their faith in Jesus Christ and identify themselves as Christians. While it is hard for us to comprehend that type of Christian persecution here in America; could it be a part of our future? What about our children's and grandchildren's future? Are we teaching and modeling an uncompromising faith that will prepare them to trust God regardless of the cost? Join us this week as we examine the faith of those three Hebrew boys enslaved in Babylon as described in Daniel 3. Find out what kind of Faith it requires to not only face the fires but a faith that will lead you to the fires.
Have you ever faced a season of despair, burnout or depression? Can you relate to what it means to be emotionally, physically or spiritually exhuasted? For every mountaintop their comes a valley, for every high there comes a low and at one time or another in all of our lives we face a season where our Faith seems to falter. Join us this week as we explore how Elijah the prophet could go from the fire of God falling at Mount Carmel to sitting under a tree in the desert praying to die. Discover the danger signs and traps of depression and discouragement as well as how God brings healing to Elijah's heart and faltering faith and how He can do the same for you and I. From 1 Kings 19.
From a house of shame to the Hall of Fame. From an unknown prostitute to a princess in the tribe of Judah. Never underestimate what God is weaving together and the transformation that takes place when His grace collides with our faith. Join us as we look at the life of Rahab of Jericho and how her faith allowed her to be sure of what she hoped for and certain of what she could not see. Like Rahab, our story is not finished and regardless of where we find ourselves, we are never out of the reach of God's amazing grace! From Hebrews 11:31. Joshua 2
How does someone go from fearfully cowering in the woods to leading an small army of 300 against overwheming odds and 135,000 enemies soldiers? By allowing his faith to overpower his fear. Many followers of Christ allow fear to keep them in bondage and rob them of their purpose and power. Listen today to find out how to set your faith free and stand against the "spirit of fear". From Judges 6-7 and the story of Gideon.
Waiting on God can require a lot of patience. Have you ever held on to a promise from God but had to wait longer than you expected? Have you wanted to give up, quit praying, gotten angry or even discouraged and depressed? Have you felt like you were all alone while trying to do what God was calling you toward? Imagine waiting over 100 years for God timing. Noah did and he remained faithful through it all. What did he have that we don't? Listen to our message from Hebrews 11:4-7 and gain some encouragement and hope as we discover the keys to being "found faithful".
When you read through the Bible it is easy to be intimidated and overwhelmed by the faith and actions of those you read about. How did David have the strength to face Golaith? Noah the perseverance to build an Ark? Esther the patience to follow God's plan? Were these "super believers" that we could never aspire to follow? In our new series "Found Faithful" we will be examining these questions and many others as we look at the lives of some of these Bible characters and the power of our Faith. While many Christians understand that we are saved by faith; most never realize this untapped resource that is available when facing our own "giants and mountains". Listen as we start this series off by defining "Faith" and how it gives us the ability to see the impossibel scene.
This is part two of the Message from January 5th, "Overcoming Your Secret Sins" looking at 1st John 5:15-21 and how we can have victory this year over all of our struggles with sin. Following up on last weeks encouragement to pray for one another in the body of Christ, John continues with specific applications we can apply to our everyday lives.
All of us have certain sins we struggle with more than others; sins we think no one else will notice or find out about. Some that we have excused or rationalized for so long that they have become a part of our character. In this message from 1st John 5, we discover that even those "secret sins" can rob us of our joy, peace and intimacy with God. Listen to discover how you can overcome and defeat those sins in your life and put them behind you once and for all. You might be surprised at the simple answer that will leave you declaring to other Christians, "You can count on Me!"
James tells us, "We have not because we ask not" and in our study of 1st John we are reminded that as followers of Christ we can approach God for anything. God desires an intimate relationship with each one of us and prayer is the main avenue to that intimacy. So many times we allow fear and a misunderstanding of God's nature to keep us from asking but it is in the asking that intimacy is developed. Through approaching and asking we learn more about God's will, His love for us and how we fit into his plans. Stop taking this great privilege for granted and listen as we discover what it means to "pray according to God's will".
We spend a lot of time, effort and energy preparing to celebrate the 1st arrival of Jesus Christ, but how much time and effort do we spend preparing for his 2nd coming? Even with all the signs and prophecies most of the people in Bethlehem had no idea the Messiah had come. In the last chapter of the New Testament, Jesus promises "I will return soon" yet most Christians live their lives like their is "Still no room in the Inn". Are you as prepared for Christ 2nd Advent as you are celebrating his 1st? Listen as we explore how can be prepared.
Part 2 of the message from 1st John 5:1-5. Followers of Jesus Christ have a promise of victory over every circumstance or situation we may face, the problem is many are not claiming or walking in that promise. What does it mean to be an "overcomer" and how can we live in victory? Join us as we discover a promise that could set you free in every area of your life.
Which of these two terms would describe your Christian walk; Survive or Thrive? Too many Christ followers live their lives just trying to survive. When faced with trials or difficutlies we hunker down and hope to wait it out or just surivive until the whistle blows. That is not only un-scriptural, it is selling short the promises and calling of God on your life. In our study, John reminds us that through faith in Christ victory, we can also have victory - in every circumstance and situation. Victory is not a life without problems, but found in how we handle the problems we face. It is time we claim the promises of God and live up to our calling as Overcomers!
Do the Thanksgiving holidays stress you out? Blended families, extended families, dysfunctional families all gathering in one place. Black Friday? The perfect meal? Can’t we all just get along? The Apostle John has an App for that and it is a lot easier than you might think; more Lettuce!! No, he is not suggesting you go vegan, or even mix in a little green with your turkey and ham. What he is suggesting could change the whole environment of your holiday gathering. Join us for this weeks’ message from 1st John 4:7-21 and discover the secret.
Can you tell the difference between truth and error, clairty over deception? In a day when confusion and deception reign, how can a follower of Jesus know what is true? Are their false teachers and leaders that seek to control and build their own kingdoms instead of setting believers free and advancing Christ kingdom? In this podcast and passage, the Apostle John seeks to bring freedom and truth but also give the Christ follower a few easy principles to help us develop a spirit led discernment. 1st John 4:1-6
Doubts? Guilt? Not Good enough? Bound to your past? Do these sound familar? These are the struggles that can become chains of bondage for the followers of Jesus Christ. Chains of our own making. While many freely accept the incredible forgiveness we have through Jesus Christ, we still struggle to forgive ourselves. Listen as the Apsotle John identifies 3 truths that can set us free and give us a path to forgiveness. You can have assurance; not based on emotion or feeling but Truth. 1st John 3:19-24.
Did you realize that it was a religious dispute that instigated the first recorded murder in the Bible? What happened and how does it affect us today? Listen as the Apostle John explains how the "Spirit of Cain" continues to dissrupt and divide the church and destroy its witness. He also points out, that the answer to the problems is as simple as changing your defaults. Ist John 3:11-20
We live in a culture that continues to rename, redefine and rationalize sin to make it more palatable and easier to justify. Even in the church, it is popular to downplay the destructive nature of sin for the sake of comfort. In this warning, the Apostle John concludes that the measure of a true Child of God is how they react and respond to sin and he reminds us all of the incredible power we have through Jesus Christ.
The names we use to identify ourselves carry history, heritage and meaning. Sometimes we even allow those name to become our identitiy. For those that have an initmate relationship with God; you have a new name. A name that carries a promise, a new identity and will define us, not just in this life but also the next. You are a "Child of God"!
Does it really matter where you go to church? Does it matter what you believe as long as you are sincere? John warns us that one of the greatest dangers for the Christ follower and for the church are false teachers, or as he calls them "anti-christ". How can you know if someone is a false teacher and what can you do to protect yourself and your church? John has an APP for that.
As Christ followers we were redeemed to have an intimate relationship with God; John calls this "Walking in the Light". In theological terms it is called "sanctification" or the fellowship we have with God as we are led and guided by the Holy Spirit to be made more in his image. Along that journey we all face distractions that hinder our walk, but none greater than the allure of the world. Listen as we heed John's warning and learn an APP for dealing with those distractions.
What does it really mean to "Walk as Jesus Walked"? Jesus states that anyone who wants to be his disciple must follow him but how can we do that? John has an APP for that and it starts in the community of faith, the body of Christ, the church! You might be surprised at the simple, yet complex answer. Listen and find out why most Christians find it hard to follow the road less travelled. From 1 John 2:3-11
The Christian life is about the journey not the destination and we were created to share that journey in community with others. Since sin has been defeated, we can not only have an intimate relationship with God but with other believers. What robs us of that fellowship is our unwillingness to be real, genuine and authentic, even in the church. Listen and find out the Apostle John's APP for that problem. We will never find unity in the body of Christ until we can be authentic.
Is their a difference between having a relationship with God and being "in fellowship" or intimate with Him? John thinks so, and in his clear and concise manner he describes how that fellowship can be lost and the personal consequences that affect everyone around us when it happens. We were created and redeemed to "Walk in the Light"; to experience the fullness of an abundant life - do you have that App?
This is the introduction to our new series from the book of 1st John entitled "Life Changing Apps". We will be walking through this wonderful letter discovering truths and principles to apply to our everyday lives. In this introduction we examine the importance and promise of applying God's word to every area of our lives.
We were honored to have Alex share his testimony in both services on Sunday, August 11th. As a child Alex lived through and witnessed some horrible attrocities during the Rwandan genocide of the 1990's. With family members and guardians being killed in front of his eyes, Alex and his siblings were sent to an orphanage where he recieved an Operation Christmas Child shoebox that opened his heart to the love, grace and forgiveness of God. Listen to Alex's testimony as he shares how God provided an opportunity for him to go back to Rwanda and deliver shoeboxes to his old orphanage and also visit the prison holding the very people who murdered his family.
The final message in our study of Nehemiah looks at the legacy that Nehemiah leaves behind. In Nehemiah 13, we see Nehemiah reveal his motivation for all he has done; and we also get a glimspe of his passion. All of us leave a legacy; when we leave schools, when we leave a job, for our children, our grandchildren, our communities. The real question is what kind of legacy will it be. Listen to find out!
The last chapter of Nehemiah (Chapter 13) describes how the people in Jerusalem went from a great revival and mountain top experience to falling back into sin and disobedience. Listen as we discover how each of us can slowly slide into the same pattern if we are not vigilant. Nehemiah also gives us some great lessons for dealing with the sin in our lives.
As Nehemiah leads in the dedication of the walls of Jerusalem an incredible time of corporate worship breaks out. Listen to discover a few simple reminders about our personal and corporate worship that we can all learn from Nehemiah.
This was our July 4th weekend service. Message discusses how a Christian and the church is to respond as our nation moves away from the values and principles it was founded on.
This is our entire patriotic service recorded in our 11:00 traditional service from the July 4th weekend. Featuring several numbers by our choir and the sermon, "This Little Light of Mine" from Matthew 5.
Do you know the difference between "making" a promise or commitment and "keeping" that promise or commitment? Many in the church today seem to have a "keeping" problem. We easily and readily "make" promises, even to God; but when it comes to "keeping" those promises and commitments - the struggles come. Find out how the people in Nehemiah's day found a solution to this problem!
From the Series "Reform, Revive and Renew" preached on October 30, 2011. Passage from Ezekiel 37:1-4