Revolutionary Podcast with Pastor Tito Sotolongo: Recent Episodes
Tito Sotolongo
Are you using the right tools to grow in your faith—or the wrong ones that leave you frustrated? In this message from Matthew 28:20a, “In This Church We…Equip”, Dr. Tito Sotolongo shows why the tools of discipleship matter and how Jesus gave us clear instructions for spiritual growth.Too often, believers fall into the trap of legalism, liberalism, intellectualism, or emotionalism—tools that spin the merry-go-round of discipleship in the wrong direction. But Jesus told us exactly how to equip one another: “teaching them to observe everything I have commanded you.”In this sermon, you’ll learn:✅ Why the wrong spiritual tools will always fail✅ The true meaning of “teach” and how anyone can pass on the faith✅ What it means to “observe” and guard your heart in Christ✅ How Jesus’ command to “love one another” equips us for real life✅ Why discipleship isn’t just for you—but for the good of othersThis is more than information—it’s transformation. Discover how to grow by Christ’s Word, Christ’s way, under Christ’s rule, with Christ’s presence.Key Text: Matthew 28:20aTheme: The Tools of Discipleship Are Found in the Truth of ChristIf this message encouraged you, don’t forget to LIKE,COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more biblical preaching and practical teaching.
In this church, we evangelize. Before Christians were ever called Christians, they were known as Followers of the Way because there was a way about them.
In this message from Matthew 28:19, Pastor Tito unpacks how evangelism and baptism work together as proclamations of the Gospel, our identification with Christ, and our transformation into His people.
Discover why the Gospel spreads like gossip—all you have to do is tell someone.
Everyone is being discipled—either by design through Christ or by default through culture and self. The difference determines who you’re becoming, where you belong, and what purpose you live for.
In our opening Saturday night service, Pastor Tito unpacks what it really means to be a disciple of Jesus and why it matters for your life right now. Don’t drift into default mode—discover how to follow Christ by design and step into the momentum God has for you.
What’s wrong with the world—and how can it be made right? In this message from Psalm 14, Pastor Tito reveals how our problems aren’t just out there in the culture, but deep within the human heart. We’ll explore the roots of rebellion, the reality of opposition, and the rescue God provides through Christ. This sermon calls us to stop wishing there were no God and start rejoicing that there is, because His name is Jesus.
Have you ever waited so long that hope started to feel foolish? In Psalm 13, David gives us permission to pour out our pain to God—not with fake faith or shallow optimism, but with honest, faithful lament. This message walks through David’s emotional journey from frustration to faith, and shows how his sigh turns into a song—not because his situation changed, but because his focus did.
Whether you feel far from God or are just barely holding on, this sermon will help you see how to pray with right motives, wait with confidence, and worship while you wait. And ultimately, how Psalm 13 points us to Jesus—the One who hears our cries, carries our burdens, and sings over us with salvation.
In a world full of noise, deceit, and broken trust—even from those who claim to follow God—how can we stand firm? Psalm 12 shows us that the voices we listen to shape the lives we live.
In this message, discover how David moved from loneliness to confidence, and how God’s pure Word guards us when lies grow louder. Whether you feel betrayed, confused, or just weary, this sermon will help you anchor your life in the only truth that stands the test of time.
What are you hungry for? In this inspiring and deeply practical message, Pastor Tito unpacks Matthew 5:6—“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled”—and shows how God calls us to crave more than comfort, success, or control.
You’ll learn:
• Why we often settle for self-satisfaction instead of soul-satisfaction
• How Christ satisfied God’s wrath so we could play a role in His redemptive plan
• What the Psalms teach us about finding stability in God’s character
• How Paul’s pivot in Acts 16 reminds us to stay flexible for the sake of the Gospel
• Why we must work out what God is working in
When everything around you shakes, how do you stay rooted in faith? In this message from Psalm 11, Pastor Tito explores how David responds to fear—not with panic or escape, but with bold, unshakable confidence in God.
You’ll discover:
• Why fleeing isn't always the faithful option
• How to discern between fear-based advice and Spirit-led wisdom
• What it means to fix your eyes on the throne when the world is falling apart
• How Jesus stood in our place so we can stand firm in ours
Whether you’re facing relational collapse, cultural chaos, or personal doubt—this message will help you stand your ground, walk in wisdom, and trust in the God who never moves.
Ever felt like you're driving through life in a dense fog, unable to see what's ahead? In this sermon, we dive into Psalm 10, a raw and untitled cry from the heart that echoes our deepest questions: "Why, God? Where are You?"
Discover how to navigate the darkness by trusting in God's promises, even when His presence seems distant. Explore the stark contrast between the wicked and the righteous, and learn how to find hope in past deliverance when the present feels overwhelming. Join us as we uncover the powerful truth that your 'why' finds rest in God's 'who.' Are you ready to rise up in faith, even when you can't see the way forward?
Have you ever felt stuck in the middle of a mess, unsure how to praise, pray, or even keep going?You're not alone.In Psalm 9, David shows us how to worship in the middle of heartbreak, how to pray with holy urgency, and how to hold on when everything feels unfinished. This message will help you see that God does His most powerful work not just at the beginning or end, but right in the middle.Whether you’re grieving, wrestling with doubt, or just waiting on a breakthrough, this sermon will lead you to praise in your pain and pray with purpose.Don’t wait until everything is fixed to worship. The cross proves it: God works wonders in the middle.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, questioning where God is in your struggles? Dive into Romans 8:31-39 with us as we explore the profound assurance that transforms fear into faith. Discover how understanding your identity in Christ can shift you from feeling conquered to becoming "more than a conqueror." What if the very things that threaten to separate you from God are the same things that can draw you closer to Him? Join us to uncover the powerful truth that anxiety doesn't get the last word—God does. Are you ready to conquer?
Explore how Romans 8 speaks to our biggest "why" moments and turns life's toughest challenges into a journey of hope. Dive into the concept of "glorious groans" and see how God's epic plan flips our struggles into something meaningful. Whether you're feeling lost or just curious, this message will show you why waiting on God's plan is totally worth it. Get ready to anchor your soul in the unshakeable truth of Christ's love and purpose!
Still hauling shame on your back? Come hear how Romans 8 swaps that weight for freedom—and why the cross you pick up powers you forward instead of holding you down.
Are you stuck in a cycle of trying harder but never feeling free? In “Until Death Do Us Part: Breaking Free from Legalism and Towards Newness of Life” from Romans 7:1-25, we confront the harsh reality that legalism promises life but only delivers guilt, shame, and defeat. Like a toxic marriage to the law, we find ourselves trapped—knowing what is right but powerless to live it out. Yet, there is hope! Through Christ, we die to that old covenant and rise into a new relationship marked by grace, freedom, and real victory over the power of sin. This isn’t a call to try—it’s a call to trust.
Are you living in the freedom that grace offers, or are you still bound by the chains of your past? Join us as we explore Romans 6:15-23 and discover how God's grace empowers us to live a life of true freedom and righteousness. Learn how to redirect your loyalty from death to life and experience the transformative power of grace.
Are you living locked out of the life Jesus died to give you? What if the battle with sin isn’t about trying harder—but believing deeper? Discover why sin has no claim on who you are anymore…and what’s waiting for you when you finally unlock the screen.
Easter Sunday, we celebrate the dawn of a new era, where grace triumphs over the reign of sin and death. As we stand in the light of the resurrection, we witness the unfolding of a divine promise that shatters the chains of our past and ushers in a future filled with life and righteousness.
This is a story of unparalleled grace, a love that overflows beyond measure, inviting us to step into a reality where the impossible becomes possible. Join us as we rejoice in the victory of the risen Christ, who reigns with power and transforms our lives from the inside out.
On this solemn Good Friday, we gather to reflect on the profound impact of two pivotal decisions that have shaped the course of human history. As we journey through the shadows of sin and the weight of disobedience, we confront the reality of a world marred by the fall. Yet, during this darkness, a light emerges—a divine act of love that transcends our deepest failures. Join us as we explore the transformative power of one man's obedience, a sacrifice that offers redemption and hope to all who believe.
In his sermon "From Hosanna to Hallelujah," Dr. Tito Sotolongo emphasizes the importance of shifting our focus from our problems to the transformative relationship we have with Christ. In this sermon we reflect on Palm Sunday, dealing with disappointment when things don’t go our way, while learning to celebrate God's unfailing love and grace in every circumstance that save us and shapes us.
In his sermon, Dr. Tito Sotolongo emphasizes the built-in benefits of justification by faith as described in Romans 5:1-2b. He explains that with justification comes peace and access that enables Christians to learn how to enjoy eternal life today. Because of Christ, we have nothing to prove, as we owe everything to Him.
In this sermon, Dr. Tito Sotolongo emphasizes that, like the Ghost Orchid that relies on its environment for survival, humans are designed to thrive through reliance on God's grace rather than their own strength. Drawing from Romans 4:17-25, he underscores that as Christians, grace allows us to live out our faith and share the Gospel, reflecting God's life-giving power in the world despite our limitations and regardless of opposition.
Dr. Tito Sotolongo's sermon teaches that our identity should be based on faith in Jesus, not our actions or comparisons with others. He explains that Abraham's circumcision was a sign of his faith-based righteousness, illustrating that salvation comes from belief, not behavior. This grace is available to all, and believers are encouraged to obey God out of gratitude, not obligation, embracing their identity as God's children free from performance pressure.
In the courtroom of eternity, objections rise against the believer’s justification—but what does the Judge say? Paul anticipates the arguments and calls two powerful witnesses to the stand: Abraham and David. What do their testimonies reveal about salvation by faith alone? And how does God respond when accusations threaten our standing before Him? Watch as we unpack Romans 4:1-8 and discover what God’s Word says.
Join us as we delve into Romans 3:27-31 to explore the dynamic relationship between faith, works, and God's Law. This sermon unpacks how the Law examines our pride, exposes our problems, and explains our process of living by faith. Discover how God's commands serve as a guide to understanding His character and our need for a Savior, leading to genuine life transformation. Learn how to uphold the Law through love and experience the joy of following Jesus with a heart full of authenticity and grace.
At some point in life, we all come to a crossroads—where what we believe about God, justice, and grace collide with the reality of our own sin. Romans 3:21-26 takes us to that very intersection, where the weight of our guilt meets the wonder of God’s mercy, and the justice of God meets the grace of Christ.The good news of salvation only becomes breathtaking when we first grasp the depth of our need. Until sin is bitter, Christ will not be sweet. In this message, we uncover the greatest exchange in history—where our shame was placed on Christ so that His righteousness could be placed on us. The question is: What will you do when faced with the truth of the cross?
On Mother’s Day 2010, I preached my first sermon as a young pastor—walking with a cane and connected to an IV. A life-threatening infection nearly took me out, but it also revealed a deeper truth: just as I needed a cure to survive, we all need the saving grace of Jesus to rescue us from the disease of sin. In Romans 3, Paul gives us a divine diagnosis—our good deeds can’t save us, but Christ’s perfect work can. Don’t ignore the symptoms. Turn to Jesus, the only cure for our brokenness. Watch now and discover why you’re better off with Him!
If God judged you today, how would you plead? Imagine standing in a courtroom, confident that your “minor” mistakes couldn’t earn the same judgment as the worst criminals. But then, the verdict comes: Guilty. Why? Because the standard isn’t how you compare to others—it’s perfect righteousness.
In Romans 2:12-3:8, Paul dismantles every excuse, exposing that not even the rule-follower or rebel can justify themselves before a holy God. But here’s the good news: what seems like the most condemning truth leads to the most life-giving hope.
What if the very judgment you pass on others is the same standard by which you’ll be judged? In Romans 2:1-11, Paul confronts our hypocrisy—how we demand justice for others while expecting mercy for ourselves. But God’s judgment is not based on personal bias; it is just, kind, and fair. His patience is meant to lead us to repentance, not to be mistaken for permission to continue in sin.
So how can God be both just in punishing sin and gracious in forgiving sinners? The answer changes everything.
Is God's wrath compatible with His love? Dive into Romans 1:18-32 to explore how God's righteous judgment isn't just anger but an expression of His perfect holiness. Discover why God's wrath against sin is justified and what it means to surrender to the truth of the Gospel. This message will challenge your perspective on God's justice and inspire a deeper pursuit of holiness and gratitude for His grace.
Are you tired of being weighed down by guilt and shame? Discover the life-changing power of standing firm in the Gospel of Jesus Christ! In this message, Unashamedly Grateful: Standing for Christ by Knowing Where You Stand with Him (Romans 1:8-17), we explore how the Gospel frees us from the shadows of shame and transforms us through faith. Drawing from Paul's letter to the Romans, we’ll see how gratitude strengthens our faith, how God's righteousness is imputed and imparted, and why being unashamed of the Gospel is the key to true freedom.
"Who are you? That question may sound simple, but it’s a haunting mystery for so many. We chase identities, build careers, and seek approval, yet we still feel like puzzle pieces forced into the wrong picture. But what if the key to discovering who you are is first understanding whose you are? In Romans 1:1-7, the Apostle Paul reveals a life-changing truth: grace and peace come from knowing Jesus and living out your God-given purpose.
How can the Church stay relevant in a constantly changing world without losing its soul? The secret is not to change what matters most. Learn how four ancient practices can revolutionize your faith journey in today's digital age.
As we close out one year and step into the next, it’s natural to reflect on what’s changed and what still needs to change in us. But how do we navigate life’s challenges with hope and purpose? In this message, we explore 1 Timothy 1:17 and Paul’s declaration of God’s eternal, unchanging character so God can shape how we see Him and live for Him.
Text: 1 Timothy 1:17
Join us this Christmas as we explore the profound message of redemption in the context of the story of Hosea and the fulfillment of prophecy in Matthew. Just like a forgotten gift card, we often neglect the priceless grace God offers us through His son, Jesus. By reflecting on God's unwavering love despite our unfaithfulness, we uncover the beauty of how He calls each of us into a meaningful relationship with Him.
Text: Matthew 2:13-15, Hosea 11:1-4
Have you ever felt the gut-punch of missing out on something life-changing? Explore how the stories of the wise men, King Herod, and the religious leaders in Matthew 2 reveal profound truths about pride, apathy, and humility. Discover how Jesus fulfills ancient prophecies and offers a hope that transforms FOMO into everlasting joy. This message connects the Gospel to real-life struggles and shows how you can embrace the Savior who came to seek and save the lost. Don't let pride or indifference holds you back—learn how to respond to the King who invites you to live securely in His promise!
This Christmas, we all stand at a crossroads, much like King Ahaz and Joseph did in their pivotal moments. In this powerful sermon, we explore the meaning of Immanuel—God with us—and how faith in Jesus can lift the crushing weight of anxiety, fear, and isolation. Join us as we celebrate the Savior who lifts every burden and reminds us this Christmas: Are you with Him?
Text: Matt 1:18–25; Isaiah 7:10–17
This message from Ruth 4:13-22 explores the profound legacy and hope found in one of the Bible's most surprising genealogies. As the book of Ruth comes to a close, we see how God transforms Naomi and Ruth’s story from loss and brokenness to redemption and belonging in His family.
Discover how Ruth's lineage ultimately leads to the birth of King David—and points forward to Jesus, our ultimate Redeemer. No matter where you’ve been or how far you feel from God, there is hope, purpose, and a place for you in God's story.
"Leaving a Lasting Legacy" takes us through Ruth 4:1-12, exploring the powerful story of redemption and the importance of building a legacy that honors God rather than seeking personal fame. In this sermon, we’ll uncover how Boaz’s actions perpetuate God's covenant and faithfulness, inspiring us to prioritize His purpose over our ambitions.
As we approach the 2024 presidential election, political tensions are high. Many people worry, "Will everything be okay if the 'wrong person' gets elected?"
In this sermon, we dive into Ruth 3:14-18 to understand how God calls us to trust Him over any human leader. When Ruth left Boaz’s presence full, carrying his promise in the form of barley, it was a reminder of God’s faithful provision. Likewise, our ultimate security doesn’t depend on who’s in the Oval Office but on the One who sits on the eternal throne.
Waiting isn't easy, especially when we feel we can do something to help God out. Yet, waiting forces us to surrender our need for control. Until we do, the peace God offers cannot control our hearts and minds. In Ruth 3:1-13 we will see through Ruth’s kindness and Boaz’s faithfulness how to find rest in Christ, our redeemer.
"How do I know I'm doing OK as a Christian?" This is a question that many believers still struggle with. In today's text from Ruth 2:18-23, we will look to Ruth's example to learn what a good and faithful servant of Christ looks like so that we, too, can live in a way that pleases God.
In Ruth 2:1-17, we see God's provision at work through Boaz, offering refuge and reward to Ruth in her time of need. Explore how God's grace finds us in unexpected places, providing protection and blessing when we step out in faith. Ultimately, we will discover how the kindness of Boaz points to the greater refuge we find in Christ."
As a boomerang doesn’t always return, we often stray from God and feel lost. But, like Naomi, who came back home empty and bitter, God invites us to return and find fullness in Him.
Through Naomi’s story, we see the power of honesty in our pain, the danger of letting bitterness define us, and the faithfulness of a God who never abandons us.
Discover how God works even in the most challenging seasons to bring you back into His grace and love.
Have you ever felt like life’s challenges keep piling up, leaving you lost, broken, and unsure of where to turn? You’re not alone. In today’s message, we explore the powerful story of Naomi in the Book of Ruth—a woman who lost everything but found hope in the most unexpected place.
In this compelling sermon, we explore the critical importance of aligning our faith with the trustworthy Word of God. Using the dramatic story of two ships caught in Hurricane Joaquin, we illustrate the dangers of placing faith in false information and the life-saving power of the true Gospel. Drawing from 1 Timothy 1:15-19, we discuss how God's Word saves, sanctifies, and sustains us through life's storms. Learn how to fight the good fight of faith, reject deceptive doctrines, and trust in Christ, our faithful Captain, to guide us safely to the harbor of heaven's shores.
Listen to find your True North and strengthen your faith amidst life's challenges!
Who am I? To know the answer to this question, you must let God show you who you are and who He is through the lens of Scripture. So, let us look into the window pain of Psalms 8 to learn who God is, who we are, and how we respond to Him.
The only thing worse than getting caught is being blamed for something you didn’t do. In Psalms 7, we will observe how David handled being falsely accused of doing something wrong so that we can learn to live upright in an upside-down world.
In the Christian life, just as in plant life, God allows both the external pressure of a fallen world and the internal pressure of our fallen state to “break” us to produce breakthroughs through us. In Psalms 6, David expressed deep emotions before experiencing a breakthrough in life, especially when he felt emotionally, mentally, and spiritually buried.
In life, just as in spelling, order matters. If your heart is out of order before God, then so will your life. So, we will see in Psalms 5 how David ordered his heart while bothered by a great depression of his own so that we can unscramble and uncover the same blessing for our lives.
A good sleep habit has been shown to have amazing benefits. Yet many people struggle to sleep, especially due to a restless mind caused by rampant anxiety. Would you like to rest in peace before you die? In Psalm 4, David shows us how to have a joyful rest, even when we are wide awake.
Facing problems when following Jesus is not a matter of “if” but “when.” That is why it is important to learn how to respond when problems do come so we can see things get better, not worse. In Psalms 3, we will see how King David faithfully navigated a personally tragic and difficult situation in a way that can help us encounter God in a deep and meaningful way.
For those who chose a life at sea, mutiny was a crime punishable by death. Psalms 2 actually exposes a real mutinous plot against God Himself. In this sermon, we will find how you and I are wrapped up in this crime and see God’s unique approach to mutineers that we should appreciate before it’s too late.
“Why are others happy and I am not?”…“What am I doing wrong, and what are they doing right?…“What can I do to experience the good life?” In this sermon, we will discover how Psalm 1 addresses these questions to help us understand who we are and why Jesus deserves praise.
Different people approach deconstructing their faith in many different ways. Some abandon a faith that they realized they never had, some have honest questions about inconsistencies with the Church, and others struggle to keep the faith when they have been hurt or let down. What is the church to do? The short answer is to build and construct a faith according to God's Word. But how? We will examine Paul's words to the Ephesian church to learn the answer.
Text: Ephesians 4:1-16
Issues such as evil, sin, and hell can become a stumbling block to someone's faith. It is not easy to reconcile God’s love and wrath, which are both exhibited in the Bible. Rather than softening the meaning or rejecting the ideas altogether, we will compare the Bible's explanation of evil, sin, and hell with cultural arguments to forge a more faithful approach to each.
Text: Luke 16:19-31
Being hopeful rather than fearful about the end times.End-times theology and discussions are hot topics. For many, the idea is encouraging. Yet, for others, it can be a stumbling block. In this sermon, we will give a general overview of key elements(the Eschatology Study of the End) so that Christians can properly fuel their faith rather than frustrate themselves and others. Text: Acts 1:6-8
There have been many debates over errors found in the Bible. Who is right and wrong, and how can we be sure? In this sermon, we examine some honest questions and concerns to confirm whether we can place our confidence in what is found in the Bible. Today's Key Text: 2 Peter 1:1-21
Do you believe what you believe is really real? Many are wrestling with faith and doubt. God’s Word has much to say about deconstruction and discipleship that can show us how to learn and affirm what we believe is true.
Today, we will examine criticisms about Christianity to discern what deconstruction is all about so we can learn without losing our faith.
Text: Genesis 3:1-9
If you do not line up batteries with the proper polarity in a device, you will have no power, even though the potential is there. In the same way, we can fail to experience God's power in our lives if we misapply God's Word and take it out of context.
Text: Philippians 4:1-23
What we think about affects how we live. This is especially true regarding our faith. We must first learn to fix our focus if we hope to develop a spiritual mindset that helps us mature and live a life worthy of the Gospel (Philippians 1:27).Text: Philippians 3:1-21
A mindset is a set of deeply held beliefs that affect our behavior. A negative mindset cannot produce positive results. A term that describes this pattern is called rumination. This is a way of thinking that continually replays negative experiences or words.
I like to describe ruminating as free falling from a plane, unable to deploy the parachute. Just as a car is meant to fuel our fuel and our bodies are meant to run on food, we must learn to feed our minds with what it was designed for to learn to have something to live for.
It is common for people to recognize toxic traits in themselves or others. But how can we solve the problem to stop the spread? In this sermon on Philippians 1:21, we will discover how to find joyful freedom from a toxic world.
An unhealthy relationship with money can rob you of a healthy relationship with Jesus. In this sermon, we examine Jesus' teaching on why it is impossible to serve God and money simultaneously so that we can become better stewards of our money and not slaves to it.Key Text: Matthew 6:19-24
In this episode, I revisit a challenging word from Paul regarding how Christian slaves and slave masters were charged to live and love one another and how it models for us a faithful approach to work that could testify to the power of the Gospel.
Other topics include how my wife and I handle the "Monday Blues" and other details about our work life.Watch the full sermon: Rich Relationships (Work)
Our work matters more than you think, regardless of whether we collect a check for it. In this sermon, we will examine how to have the right relationship with work and those involved in it to discover a matchless sense of purpose.
In this episode, I briefly reflect on a weird interaction between Jesus and his mother that did not make it to the sermon. I also shared a recap of my birthday week while sitting down with my wife to discuss parenting lessons we've learned.
Watch the full sermon: Rich Relationships (Parents & Kids)
For some people, there is no place like home. For others, they would rather be anywhere else but home. This sermon will examine what God says about having a happy home and why it matters for our souls.
BEHIND THE SERMON gives you a sneak peek at things I have lived or learned regarding my most recent sermon. In this episode, I reflect on my sermon "Rich Relationships," focusing on marriage, which comes from 1 Corinthians 7:1-40.Listen to the full sermon: "Rich Relationships: Marriage."https://youtu.be/GlObr3dSzA0
God has given us a wonderful Word to help people have a faithful view of singleness. This sermon reflects on what God has said regarding relationship status, sex, and significance.
BEHIND THE SERMON gives you a sneak peek at things I have lived or learned regarding my most recent sermon.
In this episode, I reflect on my sermon "Rich Relationships," focusing on marriage, which comes from Ephesians 5:22-31.Topics:
- Why do some marriages work and others don't?
- What does the word "submission" mean?
- What does submission look like in a marriage?
- How to define the roles and responsibilities of husbands and wives.
Listen to the full sermon: "Rich Relationships: Marriage."
It's hard to experience a meaningful marriage when the relationship gets messy. In this sermon, we examine God's design for marriage to discover what true love looks like in Christ Jesus!
It's hard to experience a meaningful marriage when the relationship gets messy. In this sermon, we examine God's design for marriage to discover what true love looks like in Christ Jesus!
BEHIND THE SERMON gives you a sneak peek at things I have lived or learned regarding my most recent sermon.
In this episode, I reflect on my sermon "The Complete Truth about Relationships," which comes from Genesis 1:26-31.
Topics:
- Prioritizing the right kind of relationships
- How to identify problematic relationships vs healthy ones.
- What does the creation account show us about our need for God?
ALSO...
This episode introduces three new segments, including...
- "Fast Five" - I take five minutes to share five things about my week that were meaningful to my life or the sermon
- "The Editing Floor" - I share study notes from the past week that did not make it into my sermon.
- "Sitting with the Sotolongos" - I invite my wife to join me as we share how we are practicing what has been preached.
You cannot get relationships right if you approach them with the wrong perspective. That is why it is important to go to the beginning to learn the basics about relationships to experience what they are all about.Text: Genesis 1:26-31
Spiritual growth involves making Jesus preeminent in your life, not just prominent. In this message based on Colossians 1:15-21 and 2:6-7, we examine why Christians should practice prioritizing Christ and placing Him first in our lives.
In this episode, I share from the parking lot of my kid's school some segments from the Editing Floor that didn't make it into the sermon while also further explaining the purpose behind the sermon title and how Jesus made it possible for true followers to learn to be holy in a human way.
WARNING: My hoodie says, "Hold my beer" ~ George Washington. It is meant to be a sarcastic joke (he never said that). The hoodie was also a gift from the store Bucee's. Alcoholism, like the abuse of any substance, is wrong and I not beneficial for followers of Christ.
Your diet makes a difference. This also applies spiritually, as the information we consume and believe will form us in one way or another. So, we must watch what we eat by looking to Christ in His Word as our primary source of life.
In this episode on “Behind the Sermon” I share a cool testimony of how I had to apply the message all week, as well as a cool illustration, that me and Church member discussed after the sermon in the lobby. I also share some extra pieces from the editing floor, as well as some details on how I approach the text I’m gonna preach on all week. #biblestudy #faith #hope #jesus #preaching #pastoring #church
Christian, stand on business.
But not just any "business."
God is Holy, and He desires us to be holy, too. How is that possible? In today's message, we look to remove all anxiety, shame, and guilt associated with struggling to live for the Lord by discovering the connection between the living hope we have in Christ and living a holy life through Christ.
1 Peter 1:13-2:3
In this episode of "Behind the Sermon," I share some personal reflections on how God's Word spoke to me while also expanding on topics such as purity culture, what it means to be "on fire" for the Lord, and much more.
New beginnings mark the end of something as change sets in. Begin this new year by learning how Moses' encounter at the burning bush teaches us what it means to be "on fire" for the Lord and live holy according to God's Word.Text: Exodus 3:1-10Topics: Holy Living, Purity Culture, New Year's Resolution, On Fire
Learning to live for the Lord faithfully begins with learning to read His Word faithfully.
This sermon is based on Dr. Tito Sotolongo's dissertation.
Key Verses:
1 Tim 1:15, 3:1, 4:9
Titus 3:8
2 Timothy 2:11
Other Verses:
Matthew 7:21, 25:23
2 Thessalonians 3:3
Psalm 23
2 Tim 1:5-9, 2:8-14, 4:6-8, 16-18
There is so much more to the account that introduces Christ in the Gospel of Luke that helps us to appreciate the significance of Jesus' birth and why it still matters after all these years.
In this sermon, we conclude our year-long focus on prayer by looking to the end of the Bible to begin to pray faithfully.
Knowing what to pray for and how to live has more to do with who you know than you think.
Praying has a lasting effect on those who practice it humbly, consistently, and according to God's Word. The ultimate result of praying in this way is meant to do something to us rather than give something to us.
Not only did Jesus teach his followers to pray on purpose, but He told them to pray for their purpose. In this sermon, we examined a lesson that reveals God's basic purpose for the lives of His followers, which can be done in infinite ways.
How we pray says a lot about who we are. This week, we reflect on a teaching from Jesus that shows how Christians are to pray in the faith and practice their faith so that others can come to saving faith in Christ.
In this message, we will examine one of Jesus' weirdest and most controversial acts to discuss how to process in prayer truths that are hard to hear.
Contrary to popular belief, there are such things as stupid questions, especially when the right questions are asked in the wrong way. In today's sermon, we will see how to position our hearts in prayer when faced with hard questions about life.
The story of Abraham, Sarah, and Hagar not only helps us to understand the origins of the conflict in the Middle East, but it also helps us to understand the importance of persevering in prayer that is rooted in the revelation of Christ, who alone can resolve the conflict in our souls!
Is it possible to lament and still love Jesus? In this sermon, we prayerfully consider how God's Word addresses the place where our feelings meet our faith.
For revival to spread throughout a nation, it must first overflow from within the Church, filled with people submitting themselves to God's Word and Will. In this message, we will learn how God's atonement addresses our abandonment when we repent and believe in Christ.
The prayer of Jabez became very popular in the early 2000s. Since then, many have used it to pray for personal blessings. In this sermon, we dive into the prayer of Jabez to learn what kind of personal blessings God wants us to pray for.
Praying can be a struggle if the person praying is unwilling to submit everything to the God they are praying to. Today's sermon will discuss why everyone wrestles with issues and how to fight those battles better.
We need to be reminded daily of what we have in Christ so that we do not revert to old and unfruitful ways that promise us life but in the ends robs us of it.
The Apostle Simon Peter understood that the point of prayer is not to get what you want, have God fix your problems, or so you can level up in the Spirit to do great things. At its foundation, praying is about learning to depend on God the more you know His character so that he can guard your mind and grow your faith.
In this sermon, we will learn to beware of what can tear down our faith and be aware of how to build ourselves up in the faith.
"The prayer of a righteous person is very powerful in its effect." What did James mean when he said this in James 5:16? What does it take to be righteous, what kind of things can they do when they pray, and why are their prayers considered powerful? We will consider all this and more in this single sermon over the entire letter of James.
Praying with the wrong focus leads to unfortunate results. Today, we look at Paul's letters to Timothy to learn what the goal of prayer ought to be and how to practice it faithfully.
The purpose of prayer is to live a productive life in Christ. Today's message examines the pitfalls that would cause Christians to live a fruitless life instead of a fruit-filled one.
There is a form of faith expressed in praying and participating that is refreshing to the soul. In this sermon, we look at how Paul's prayer for Philemon's participation in the faith could impact an entire community.
Jesus taught His followers to pray that God delivers us from evil, including evil teaching that can cause us to deny Christ or dethrone Him in our souls. We are looking at Paul's prayer to the Colossians to learn how we must also be watchful of what we are learning because it will impact how we live.
Prayer is underutilized because it is misunderstood. Part of that problem is that Christians need help to understand who they are in Christ. This was Paul's goal in his letter to the Ephesians. Every Christian at any age must continue to grow this way, praying to a mighty God who has and does more to and through us than we can imagine.
For many, praying is not fun. It can be awkward sometimes, especially if you don't know what you are doing. But the joy from praying isn't in the act but the object of our prayers. That is what we are going to uncover in this message.
Many don't pray because they feel intimidated, especially in public. The truth is that prayer is so powerful and essential that God has done everything possible to remove every excuse why we shouldn't pray. That is the purpose of this message.
One of the worst trades that a Christian can make is to exchange their peace IN Christ for performance FOR Christ. When we sow this kind of truth and thinking, we reap a troubled heart that is never satisfied. The only answer is to turn to Jesus, for He is the only source of peace that is permanent despite our problems.
Prayer is essential when following Christ, especially when we lose our way because of confusion. During those moments, we must remember where the source of our faithfulness lies.
It is getting harder to experience authentic life in Christ in a growingly artificial world. In this message, we see three things that Paul prayed that we need as well if we desire to experience authentic spiritual maturity.
We take things for granted when we become forgetful to be grateful. That is why Paul strived to guard his gratitude of heart towards God's grace towards him and others. Our prayers will have a great affect when they are grounded in gratefulness towards God's grace.
A lot of attention is usually given on Holy Week to the crucifixion and the resurrection because Jesus remained dead in between those moments. There is nothing to learn from that space, right? Pause and listen to what the silence in between both events has to say to us today.
Many have expressed feelings of being far from God. But no one experienced it the way Jesus did so that all who believe in Him will never have to.
In Jesus' most vulnerable moment during His prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane, we are given a glimpse of something Christ had to face so that we would never have to.
On the night of Jesus' betrayal, the disciples learned an important lesson the hard way on the importance of prayer when it comes to responding to temptation. We must learn from their experience so that we can discover true hope and freedom in Christ today.
In the final part of the greatest prayer ever prayed, Jesus exhibits a level of confidence that is meant to give us HOPE about tomorrow no matter what is happening today.
In part 2 of the greatest prayer ever prayed, Jesus, reveals what a Christian needs in order to fulfill God's purpose for their life.
John 17 contains the longest and most profound prayer of Jesus that was ever recorded. This week, we examine it to see how Jesus' purpose speaks to our identity and purpose in life.
For many, prayer doesn't pay off because they don't understand that the true purpose of prayer can only be found when we persevere in it. To do that, we must never forget WHO is the God we are praying to. Consistency that is rooted in God's character is key!
Temptation and deliverance are so important for the life of a Christian that Jesus made sure to teach us to pray every day. Both are essential for experiencing continual revival and renewal!
Christians have many spiritual needs, but Jesus made sure to teach how to pray for one specific need that can impact all the others. If we fail to pray and apply it sincerely, we end up far from God fast. When we do pray and apply it, we see God's hand move mightily!
The biggest problem that people have when they pray for God's will is that they have their own will which they would prefer. The reality is that the closer you hold on to your will the farther you end up from God's. That is why we must understand the cost that comes from wanting to live in God's will. Hint: It's worth the price.
The biggest problem that people have when they pray for God's will is that they have their own will which they would prefer. The reality is that the closer you hold on to your will the farther you end up from God's. That is why we must understand the cost that comes from wanting to live in God's will. Hint: It's worth the price.
The problem with our prayers is that they are more concerned with the things of this world versus the things of God. That is why praying for God's Kingdom to come is more important than you think. It has a great impact on our spiritual and mental health when we understand what the kingdom of God is and begin to pray for it to come!
A major problem people have when it comes to prayer is that many do not pray as they should. In this message, we are studying the first and most important thing we are supposed to pray for according to Jesus Himself.
Series: How to pray like Jesus (1/14)
Pray is of the most associated habits for religious people. Yet it is also the most abandoned habit. Many don't pray because they believe it doesn't work. The reality is that many just don't understand how prayer works. In this message, we will explore how Jesus taught about prayer by showing us how NOT to pray when we pray.
We all desire to be a part of something bigger than ourselves that changes the world. Well, today, we are going to discover how we can find our place in God's plan to restore the universe!
Have you ever seen the videos titled "Cake or Fake"? They show the talents of some amazing bakers who make cakes that look like non-edible things. It's so lifelike it's hard to tell what is cake and what it not. In today's text, we are going to see what happens when we believe in the REAL truth claims of God and what happens when we choose what's FAKE.
As I've preached throughout the book of Acts, I have been amazed to see how God repurposes pain and difficulties. If we trust in God's Word like Paul did, we can see God repurpose our pain so that we can better point others to Jesus!
There are things in life that we can control, like ourselves. Outside of that, we are left to either react or respond. In today's message, we will see how the Holy Spirit empowered Paul to respond to a storm at sea to help us see something incredible about who God is.
It's unfortunate how often you and I have to learn the hard way in life. Today, we are going to learn a lesson Paul learned the hard way to help us understand how to live in a better way.
Newsflash: It's impossible to understand every detail of God's plan for your life. The real question ought to be, "Why?" Today, we are going to learn how Paul ended up in Rome so we can learn how we too can trust in God so that He can fulfill His purpose in our lives even when we only can understand a small part of it.
People are good at pretending, especially when it comes to our ability to lie to ourselves and ignore addressing any form of darkness in our hearts. The sin that remains a secret makes us sick. We will look at one man's fatal flaw in the Bible who ignored the obvious, and I pray that we all learn not to repeat the same mistake.
Knowing the voice of God in Scripture is essential for battling the many lies that we hear daily. One source of deception tends to be our own conscience. At times it acts like a friend and at others like an enemy. Today, we are going to look at how to have a clear conscience before God and how that helps us to live for the Lord without regret!
It's hard to be joyful when you are not hopeful. And it's hard to be hopeful when we only settle for the kind of false hope that this world only offers. Today, we are going to review four times Jesus tells people to cheer up (have courage) which can still speak to us today.
Having a heart for others is hard, especially when it comes to people who hurt you. This is what we are about to see as an example in Paul's life as he maintains a heart for unbelievers despite the hurt that they inflicted on him.
One of the biggest questions Christians have is how to hear God's voice. In order to do that, you have to begin with understanding what you need to be listening for.
One of the biggest questions Christians have is how to hear God's voice. In order to do that, you have to begin with understanding what you need to be listening for.
The phrase, "You get out what you put in" contains a lot of truth, especially when it comes to physical, mental, and spiritual health. What matters is not just what you put in but where you put it. In today's message, we look at how God designs to encourage those who are discouraged in a way to empower them to live with the right kind of confidence.
People are so dead inside that they are willing to do anything to just feel alive, even for a brief moment. Revival is when you experience God's life-giving hand in your life when you repent of your sins and receive Jesus as your Savior. Yet, there is a form of repeated revival that Christians can cultivate. In today's message, we are going to look at how to pursue Biblical revival that leads to a reforming life while avoiding the very thing that can quench that fire.
People are always looking for the next big and exciting thing because we can get bored easily. The same happens even within the Christian faith. Today, we're going to be challenged not to seek the extraordinary work of God apart from the ordinary practices that God has actually commanded. The truth is that there is more to explore the further we go into God's Word and presence.
In the book of Acts, Luke documents 4 different Pentecost experiences which confirmed an amazing reality regarding just who can be saved! In today's message, we are going to see what happened when a group of people who were waiting for the Savior found out what He had arrived & accomplished.
Many of us have been told how incredible we are at some point in our lives. The hard truth is that regardless of how "incredible" you and I might be, we are all incomplete and incompetent without Christ. Today, we examine this claim as we search the Scriptures together.
Extra-struggles in life require extra-strength that can only be found in the source of all life. In this sermon, we examine God's Word to learn how to be strengthened in the middle of our struggles and what God wants us to do with it.
Is the Bible reliable? Can we trust what is written and who wrote it? These are questions that people have wrestled with for generations and it is a question that you must arrive at your own conclusion. If you can trust what was written then you can trust the God who is risen! Today, we will look at a text that helps us to see that God's Word, and God Himself, it trust worthy.
It's one thing to read the Bible. It's something else talking about it. In today's message we will learn what obstacles that keeps us from sharing the Good News and growing in it.
Why is the Bible so boring? Why is it so hard to understand? This is going to be our focus today as we not only look inside of the Bible but also inside of ourselves to understand why the Bible is hard to understand and live by.
What we think about we live out. That is why it is important to be aware of the truth we believe in so that we can be transformed to live with and for the Lord. Out of anything we can think about, what we think about Jesus matters most.
In life, we have to deal with curve balls, but if we have Christ we have all that we need to deal with distractions and difficulties, no matter how dark the circumstances.
Is it possible to know the Will of God without having to hear the voice of God through dreams, prophecies, and other signs? The short answer is, "YES!" How that is possible is the content of today's message.
The timeless message of Jesus needs to be applied in timely ways. This can be difficult for some Christians because they are unsure how to live in today's culture in an effective way. In this message, we learn some basic principles on how to accommodate how we live by faith by avoiding compromising our faith.
Life is full of tension and transitions. Praise God that boy His grace we can navigate both in ways that can help us to fulfill God's purpose for our lives. In today's message, we are going to see how God did this through Paul, Barnabas, and John-Mark.
There is a reason why the song "Amazing Grace" is too inspiring and timeless. Yet, no words can accurately describe how amazing God's grace is. Despite our limitations, it is possible to grow in our understanding. In today's message, we see how we are saved by God's grace and how we are called to live by God's grace, especially when addressing the common questions people have about what Christians can and can't do.
Paul's first missionary journey is meant to introduce the third and final section of the book of Acts which shows God fulfilling His promises through His people despite them facing great opposition, so that believers experience the same results. Other topics focus on why God allows suffering in the world today and what can we do in response to it.
Vance Havner once said, "The same sun melts ice and hardens clay, and the Word of God humbles or hardens the human heart." The Truth of God hits us all the same. The result is dependent on how we respond to it. In today's message, we look at what it looks like to humble ourselves to avoid resisting God due to our pride.
It is wise to expect the unexpected because it is a normal part of life. What matters is whether we respond or react to moments like this. We can prepare for the unexpected by learning to develop our spiritual muscle memory through certain disciplines which will help us to respond with wisdom and void reacting foolishly, especially when times are tough.
There are many Christians who wonder what they must do in order to grow and mature in their faith. In today's message, we will discover principles that helped the Church in Antioch grow in the faith that we can apply today.
Since the beginning of the church's history, there have been debates regarding what Christians should and shouldn't look like. In today's message, we will examine the first debate on this issue to learn how to enjoy the process of eternal life while avoiding the dangers of perfectionism.
Peter received a strange vision one day which pointed to God's purpose on who can be saved and who are Christians called to love. In today's message, we are going to see God’s master rescue plan fully unleashed on the world and what that means for us today.
The quiet thing that few want to say out loud in the Church is that many doubt their own salvation. Is it possible to know if we are saved? How can we be sure? In today's message, we will examine Scripture to find the answers to these questions.
All Biblical references: Acts 9:36-42, Romans 3:10, 3:23-24, 5:8, 10:9-11; Titus 2:11-14 Ephesians 2:4-5, 9; 2 Corinthians 13:5; 1 John 5:13; 2 Peter 1:1-11
Throughout life, there are many instances in which we may experience a level of trauma that changes us from that moment on. Many are unaware if there is hope and if things will get better. In today's message, we are going to encounter an incredible God that is able to reverse the irreversible, and who has the power to even alter what appears to be permanent. For by His wounds, we are healed!
Dr. Hemby shares a message from Psalm 42 to help us understand what we need to say to ourselves during tough times to remain anchored in the Lord, even in the midst of anguish and chaos.
We all understand the importance of tracking our progress in different areas of life. Employees sometimes have to go through periodic evaluations. Students have progress reports and end-of-the-year report cards. Adults have different medical milestones that must be observed. Also, people like to track their progress regarding personal goals.
Jesus would repeatedly teach and model how the Kingdom of God differed from the ways of this world that we have come to know. As we explore the conversion story of Saul, who would later become the Apostle Paul, we see how radical and counter-cultural the Kingdom of God is, especially when we consider how Jesus responds to His enemies.
We all mark moments in history, and even in our own history, that played major roles in shaping the world or ourselves. Today, we are going to look at a historic day in human history that not only launched the worldwide spread of the Gospel but also reveals how we can live a fruitful life today.
Problems are a normal part of life. How we decide to tackle them can help us to live a happier life. Dr. Alan Ehler outlines a Biblical decision-making pattern that helps us make big decisions wisely, especially when we do not have divine direction.
You can buy his book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/How-Make-Big-Decisions-Wisely-ebook/dp/B07TG7LLSH/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1HZ0D71YC5XWK&keywords=alan+ehler&qid=1646680634&sprefix=Alan+Ehler%2Caps%2C87&sr=8-1
The short story of Stephen's life and death was not only a turning point in the book of Acts and in the history of the Church, but it can be a turning point in your life when you stop resisting the Holy Spirit so that you can see how kind Jesus has always been to you!
Barnabas, Ananias, and Sapphira's stories help us learn a very important principle about honesty before the Lord. In it, we will also discover a plan from the enemy to keep us from growing in our faith and living a fruitful life.
Prayer is powerful, but only when we have the right priorities. Today, we are going to examine a prayer of the early church to see how we should face obstacles and problems in life so God's kingdom may come into our hearts and out into the world.
It's one thing to be ignorant of information. It's another thing to actively suppress information. The strategy of the enemy is to keep you living in denial of the power of God and the Gospel. Once we stop believing the lies that we tell ourselves, we will begin to learn to live when we receive the Truth of God by faith.
A blissful ignorance is when we are unaware of unimportant things. The most important thing we must not be ignorant of is the Truth of God and the Gospel of Jesus which offers us something more valuable than anything this world has to offer. The point of this message is to confront our ignorance so that we can experience the powerful love of God.
Many Christians today are searching to better understand how to follow through with their faith. What should they do? How should they live? How do they know they are saved. The answer to these questions, and many more, are found through one word and through one image.
In part two of his sermon on the Day of Pentecost, the Apostle Peter makes a powerful appeal to his audience and to us today to understand and experience all that Jesus has made possible through his life, death, and resurrection.
There are opportunities that come and go while others only come once in a lifetime. In today's message, we will reflect on the divine window that has been opened that we must maximize before it closes.
Let's take time at the beginning of a new year to reflect on the glorious truth of the impact that the Gospel of Jesus has had and should continue to have on us. In today's sermon, we will discover the one thing, if accomplished, that will make 2022 a successful year.
There is an important person in the Christmas story that is regularly overlooked. Today, we look at Simeon's role in the Christmas story and why it matters today.
In this Part 3 of a 3 part mini-series, we examine Jesus' warnings and teachings on fasting.
In this Part 2 of a 3 part mini-series, we examine Jesus' warnings and teachings on the purpose of prayer.
In this Part 1 of a 3 part mini-series, we examine Jesus' warnings and teachings on the heart of generosity.
The study of the Bible is a foundational spiritual discipline that produces phenomenal results. Yet, many don't experience that due to a faulty way of viewing God's Word and reading it. Today, we focus on the purpose of the Bible, why you should read it daily, and how to do so, so that you may know God personally.
We fail to experience the benefits of our spiritual disciplines when we have a false view of God. The reality is that God does amazing things for us and through us when we have a loving relationship with Him. But our motivation should not be to get something in return for our efforts. It should be something better.
Growing closer to God and maturing in our faith as Jesus followers requires us to be faithful in the little things which God then uses to do big things in us and through us. Today, we focus on a simple morning task that can do just that.
Many Christians treat the moment when they confessed Jesus as their Lord and Savior as the finish line. In reality, it was the starting line that ought to propel them into a new life, going from consumers of the Gospel to coworkers of the Gospel.
Every Christian can relate to the Apostle Peter because he too struggled to believe and behave. Yet, he learned something that helped him to remain stable in his faith even while he stumbled. He shared this lesson in his last letter.
"If Jesus has saved me from my sins, why do I still struggle with sin?" If you've ever asked this question, know that you are not alone and know that there is a reason why Christians struggle with even the desire to do what isn't right. Today, we look to uncover what is still wrong with us and discover what has gone right for us. Topics: - How to fight against the flesh? - Why do Christians still sin? - How do I know if I am saved?
People tend to struggle with shame as a result of their actions, while others struggle with pain as a result of the actions of others. There is one way we can respond to both that will make things worse and only one way that can make it better.
Today's message helps us to understand where to put our focus when we, as Christians, find ourselves messing up as we follow Christ.
Jesus once dealt with a desperate father who struggled with doubt. Our Lord's words to both the father and his disciples will help us to see how God can even use our doubts to draw out our faith in Him as long as we give God the benefit of the doubt.
The Apostle Thomas is usually remembered for doubting that Jesus rose from the dead. Yet, how he wrestled with doubt shows us how to do it in such a way that God can use that doubt to develop our faith.
One of the root causes of doubt in the life of many people regarding faith is the result of God not meeting our expectations. In this sermon, we discover the dangers of assuming things of God, and what kind of questions Jesus desires that we ask Him.
Today, we will discover the main reason why so many will go to Hell and why others will not.
In today's message, we are going to discover why so many people will go to Hell and why others will not.
In our study of the 10 Commandments, we will discover why things don't go well in our relationships. It all has to do with how we view God.
In today's message, we will discover the main reason why people struggle feeling far from God and why many married couples fall out of love.
The first five commandments on tablet one deal with our vertical relationship between ourselves and our creators (God/Parents). The second set deal with our horizontal relationships between ourselves and our neighbors. In this first series, we begin to learn how our vertical relationships have with our horizontal ones.
If you want to know God's will for your specific assignment in your life then you must be receptive and active in God's general plan for your life. This requires you to work on your relationships. It won't be easy, but through Christ it's possible, and it's worth the effort!
God's Truth is very clear about the responsibilities governments have towards God and what responsibilities citizens have before God when the government steps out of bounds. This truth is very important for us to understand if we desire to see actual change happen in the world.
This is the "Sex Talk" that both singles and married couples of any age should still have if they desire to live a life that both pleasing to God and personally fulfilling.
Terms like Christian Nationalism and Christian Socialism are being used today to typecast millions of Americans. In today's sermon, we look to discover the truth of God regarding what place patriotism and activism can have in the life of a Jesus follower.
Our culture is full of examples of how we should self-identify. But the truth is that our true identity, community, and cause cannot be self-discovered or self-achieved. It must be revealed by God and received from God.
There is never a shortage of trends regarding the essential role and responsibilities that men ought to live by. In today's sermon, we look at how men can glorify God, especially in the way they view and treat women.
There is never a shortage of trends regarding the essential role and responsibilities that women ought to live by both inside and outside of the home. In today's sermon, we look at how women can glorify God in the way they view and treat men.
Everyone desires to live a life that counts for something bigger than themselves. So, to avoid wasting whatever time we have left, we need to make sure we avoid placing our faith in the trends that fade away and instead place our faith in a Truth that lasts forever and fuels our true purpose.
In our last, message of our series BAD RELIGION we look at what GOOD RELIGION is according to Jesus. There are two elements to our faith that are required, and we must not do one without neglecting the other if we are to see the Lord work in us and through us.
The reason why there are so many examples of "bad religion" when it comes to Christianity is not that it is false, it's because it's not easy. Yet, there is nothing more life-giving and worthwhile than our pursuit of Christ. This is what we uncover in today's message.
People end up with BAD RELIGION when they focus on the outside rather than allowing the Holy Spirit to transform them from the inside out. In this message, we reflect on how deep God desires to work in our lives.
This deep dive follows my sermon "The Problem with False Prophets" from Jeremiah 23:9-40.
Topics:
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Words of Wisdom vs Words of Knowledge
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How to speak prophetically accurately
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Why we should listen more than we speak
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Divisions over Doctrine
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What about signs & wonders?
One of the reasons why we see so much bad application with Christians is because we have so many bad teachings that lead to wrongdoings! Jesus Himself said that we must be aware of those who claim to speak on behalf of God yet they are really hypocrites. In today's message, we learn about the problem and discover solutions to help us better walk in the light of the Truth of Christ!
This deep dive is a follow-up to my sermon "Hope for Hypocrites" from Amos 5:10-24.
Topics:
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Justice & Righteousness
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How Amos gives us an example of how to live today
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Why does God hate it when we act like hypocrites
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God/The Ultimate Warrior/WWE/Tag Team
No one loves hypocrites or enjoys being one. It's exhausting to pretend that everything is one way when it really isn't. Not only can living a lie drain your life but it also keeps you from truly experiencing God. We might be able to convince others with our show, but God is not is easily fooled. In this message, we explore how honestly is the only remedy for hypocrisy.
In part four of our series THE ROAD TO EASTER, we review a conversation between Jesus and two disciples that were struggling in their faith so that we too can find comfort in the Truth of who Jesus is and what He has done!
So much happened along the road that Jesus took from Pilate to Calvary. Along that route, Jesus' ultimate purpose is revealed, which has a major implication for your life!
Prayer is more powerful than we give it credit for and simpler than we think. Jesus repeatedly modeled this throughout his life, and especially on the night, he was handed over to be crucified. Let's examine why Jesus took a road out of the city to go pray and learn how essential prayer should play in our journey too.
The Sunday before his crucifixion, Jesus was welcomed as the king who would set the people of Israel free from Roman oppression. Within a few days, Jesus simultaneously failed to meet those expectations while also far exceeding them, teaching is a lesson of the importance of how we are framing our image of Jesus.
We all change when we begin to think and do things differently. But we must not lose sight of the fact that something happened first to us which caused us to do things differently. As Christians, we must reflect on how God has marked us in order to gain the motivation to be who He is shaping us to be.
This deep dive is inspired by my most recent sermon, "Misplacing question marks and periods" from Joel 2:12-27.
Topics: How Christians should treat non-Christians, How to treat a Christian who is being rebellious, How to know if you are saved, Can a Christian still be enslaved to sin?
No one likes to be called out, especially when you know you are in the wrong. Yet, when God calls people to repent it is because He stills love them and desires for them to return. The truth is that SIN is more serious than you think. The longer you hold on to it the stronger it holds on to you.
This deep dive is inspired by my most recent sermon titled, "The struggle is real" from Psalms 120.
Topics:
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What to do/not do when it comes to evangelism
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The proven way on how to get someone to accept Jesus as Lord and Savior
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How to live for Christ in and anti-Christ world
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Why people don't believe in Jesus as God/Savior
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What the candy "Now & Laters" have to do with the struggles in this world.
Maintaining our passion for this life is hard, especially when having to deal with the problems we face in life. In today's message, we discover the right attitude and actions we are to have towards those who have it out against us, as we realize that in God we have a real strength that sustains us through our struggles.
This deep dive is inspired by my most recent sermon titled "Confidence in a time of crisis", inspired by Psalms 77.
Topics:
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Deconstructing your faith
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When reliving the glory days is ok for Christians
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What my bed frame taught me about my faith
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What Marino, Mahomes, and Brady have in common with Jesus
It is normal for people to experiences different kinds of crises in life. It is also normal for Christians to experience a crisis of faith. Today, we ask some tough questions and discover a timeless truth that can anchor us during dark times.
This deep dive is inspired by my recent sermon "Grounded in Gratitude" from Daniel 9:1-19
Topics:
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How Bible study & Prayer go hand in hand
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How to read the Bible
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Confession is how we stay grounded in God
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Why we should continually confess our sins to God
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Why we should have at least one person to confess our sins too.
In a world where we are encouraged to keep grinding it is important to remember to stay grounded in the Truth of who God is, what He has done, and who we are with Him and without Him. In this first sermon of the series "Grounding", we examine the foundation of our lives.
This deep dive is a follow up to my sermon "God's heart for your house", 1 Timothy 5:3-8
Topics:
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How to live out your faith by loving your family
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Fulfilling God's purpose for your life
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How to pass on your faith to your children
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Advice for married couples, dating couples, parents, and children
The condition in your home can reveal a lot about the condition of your faith. God cares about the way we care about one another, both in the Church house and in our own houses. In this message, we see the importance of God's heart for our house.
This deep dive is inspired by the sermon "A heart for God's house", Acts 1:6-11.
Topics:
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Evangelism
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Witnessing
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The role and responsibility of the Church
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How MIA Dolphin fans attacked me on Super Bowl Sunday
Is there more to life? Yes. Is there more to Church life? YES! In today's message, we reconsider the gift that God has given us by the Spirit through Jesus that not only fills us with power but gives us a fulfilling purpose!
This is a follow up to my sermon on Joshua 3:1-5 and Romans 12:1-2 called "Consistency is key"
Topics:
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How to actually grow spiritually
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Perfect practice makes perfect
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Why am I not growing spiritually?
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Disney, The Carrousel of Progress
The key to success in many areas of life is consistency. It is no different than when it comes to walking with God. In the last sermon of this series, we are reminding on what God desires of us each and every day.
This is a follow up to my sermon on 1 Timothy 4:6-10 titled "The habit of inhabiting"
Topics:
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How to actually grow spiritually
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The importance of what we believe and how it impacts how we behave
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What do I need to do to be saved?
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How do we fight the good fight of faith?
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My thought on why we are seeing so much tension and fighting in our society.
You are what you eat. But you are also what you do. The little decisions that make up the rhythm of your day end up shaping who you will be someday. In today's message, we look at one habit that has the biggest bang for its buck!
This is a follow up to my sermon on James 4:13-17 titled "Put off procrastination"
Topics:
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Understanding God's will for your life
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The benefits of being diligent and hard work
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What to do with your purpose and your passion (and how to tell the difference)
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My testimony about how I tackled my college and career decisions
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The SIN of partiality
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Biden/Harris & Trump's missed opportunity for unity
When we procrastinate we do so against our better judgment. And when we go against our better judgment, how can we expect things to get better? Now, more than ever, we need do the right thing at the right time if we desire to see the right kind of results.
This is a follow up to my sermon on Ecclesiastes 3:1-15 titled "What can I do today to have less regrets tomorrow?"
Topics:
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How to maximize your time
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Why following Jesus today produces less regrets tomorrow
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Being patient
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Knowing when to do what
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When is it a good time to speak up and take a stand
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When is it a good time to heal
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When to submit and when to resist
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Christian Nationalism & Christian Socialism
Everyone wants things to change, but few people want to change because sometimes it's hard, or they just keep putting it off until tomorrow. Today, we look at how by being intentional today we can influence tomorrow for the better.
This year has been unique, to say the least. Maybe you hoped to receive a 20/20 vision for your life regarding your purpose. But what if we needed to gain greater clarity of who God is and where we are placing our faith in order to move forward?
It's hard to be happy when things don't go the way we wish they would, and especially when we don't know how much longer our problem will last. The good news is that we have something in Christ that not only lasts but helps us to live with assurance and peace, no matter the problem.
This year has been tough for many. It's in those moments that we need to get going to find the right kind of help because if we don't it gets tougher to get going. In this message, Pastor Tito shows us where we should turn to when life gets tough.
A lot has happened this year, to say the least. So much so that we feel we should end a not-so-typical year with a not-so-typical Christmas series. In this message, Pastor Tito kicks off this new series by helping us to avoid any unnecessary consequences that can complicate the next year.
Say out loud the phrase, "God is good" and you are bound to have someone reply "all the time". Though we believe that to be true, it hard for many to feel that it is true when bad times come around. In this sermon, Pastor Tito shows how it is a good thing that God both loves and hates sinners (yes, you read that right)
We've heard it said many times that when God feels far, understand that He is not the one who moved. The rest of the story is that when we move, God doesn't remain static. He is constantly in pursuit of us. In this message, Pastor Tito explores the problem of God's proximity and our perspective.
We've heard it said many times that when God feels far, understand that He is not the one who moved. The rest of the story is that when we move, God doesn't remain static. He is constantly in pursuit of us. In this message, Pastor Tito explores the problem of God's proximity and our perspective.
What do you think of God? That question is easy to answer. What does God think of you? That is a little harder for some, but Pastor Tito shows us that discovering the answer is not impossible. In fact, when you come to know how much God knows you, something remarkable will begin in your life.
In this message, Pastor Tito wraps up the study of the Book of Revelation, focusing on the main takeaway of the whole book. This future HOPE is meant to help us understand WHO Jesus is, which is what we need to learn HOW to live today.
In our mini-series on the wrath of God, we look at how God has dealt, is dealing with, and will finally deal with the devil. Knowing this will help us with how we can handle anything in Christ Jesus who gives us strength. In this message, there is a challenge from God to engage our enemy, and not participate in their schemes.
The number 666 has been studied and analyzed size the day John penned those digits on the island of Patmos. What do they mean? What will it be? Though much is uncertain, much can be gained by what the Spirit desires for us to know regarding the Mark of the Beast in Revelation and the Mark of God found in the book of Deuteronomy.
One of the most difficult aspects of the Book of Revelation is to understand who is who (The 2 Witnesses, the Anti-Christ, the False Prophet, and the 144,000). Though it might be hard, it is beneficial to look into these passages so that we might better understand whose side we are on and what to do with it.
The whole point of the Book of Revelation is to reveal the true nature and character of Jesus Christ. When doing so, we must consider an important, yet difficult, aspect of God...His wrathful side.
In the final letter to the 7th church, we gain the big picture of how to follow Jesus and how to avoid the things that will stunt our spiritual growth.
God doesn't give important opportunities to important people. He is looking for a certain type of followers. In the letter to the 6th church, we discover what Jesus' requirements are.
In the 5th letter to the Church of Sardis, Jesus reveals that what we are on the inside is more important than how we are perceived on the outside. What matters most is that we walk with Christ, for His grace works from the inside out, changing us which changes the world!
It's not easy for Christians to understand how to follow Christ in the culture that they are living in. This is why one of the biggest Google searches is "Can a Christian do....?" In the 4th letter written to the Church of Thyatira, Jesus addresses a Church that had crossed the line and had become colonized and corrupted by the culture.
These topics are some of the most debated topics in Christian theology, especially between people who believe in a Pre-Trib, Mid-Trib, or Post-Trib rapture. Regardless of what we know or don't know, there is something that I believe we all need to live by, regardless of our end times eschatology.
When we compromise the small things today, we are really compromising the big things of tomorrow. This week, we study the letter to the third Church in Revelation to uncover the demonic strategy that causes us to self-sabotage our spiritual connection with God.
It is very popular for people to strive to discover their purpose, especially when it comes to understanding God's will for their lives. It's important to know that God's plan might include purposeful pain. Pastor Tito observes the 2nd letter to the Churches in Revelation to discover how we are to do good as we suffer well.
When it comes to following Jesus, there are a lot of important habits we need to develop. Yet, there is one that is the most important. Without it, we will never experience the joy of our salvation. In the first letter to the church of Ephesus, we discover what that one thing is.
We live in a world of ongoing conflict and unrest. All around us are signs of the reality that so many live in a state of fear—or worse, hopelessness. Many centuries ago, John, the author of Revelation, which reminds us today that God is in control and that He will take care of all who follow Him. We can have confidence as we face life's challenges, knowing that Jesus' victory is our own. This future hope is meant to influence how we ought to live in the present.
The problem our country is facing is too big for one generation to fix. It takes humility, honesty, and a heart turned toward God to maintain a healthy perspective of our earthly purposes. The truth is that God's Will will be done. It's up to us if we choose to be a part of it.
Though we all disagree on many things, we can all agree that we ought to do better as people in the way we treat each other. In week 3 of this series, we how God defines Justice & Righteousness so that we be helpful instead of harmful.
Fairness, equality, and the underprivileged. How does God expect us to respond? In week 2 of this series, we discover who the most privileged group is in the world and what God expects them to do with all that privilege.
Racial tensions are high in our country. Almost everyone desires to bring an end to racism. Yet, the majority of us disagree on where to start. In week 1 of this series, we address the spiritual root underneath the social issues we are all seeing and experiencing.
There are so many problems in the world and many struggle trying to understand how to start solving them. We must be careful to avoid being busy bees (all buzz and no honey) by making sure we incorporate a rhythm of MAKING IT PERSONAL in order to find peace.
In Part 2 of a sermon about learning how to rest by honoring the Sabbath Day commandment, Pastor Tito shares how to Sabbath so that we can learn do develop a mindset of rest as we establish a rhythm of setting a day aside to rest.
In part one of a two part series, Pastor Tito talks about WHY we need to incorporate a Sabbath day of rest into the rhythm of our lives if we don't want to be robbed of God's blessings for our lives.
Things are beginning to change again as things are starting to go back to normal at the same time we are entering into a new normal that no one knows what it will look like. If we don't fix our focus the right way, we can be paralyzed by the past or be fearful of the future.
I know I am not the only one who feels like this sometimes. If you are, I want you to know that you are not alone. There are many reasons why we might feel this way regarding God. Much of it stems from a lack of understanding of who God is or a lack of faith in God. Regardless, God has made a way for us to get to know Him better.
We have well past the 40-day mark of self quarantining and social distancing. That means that comfort is beginning to settle in. We have learned to do things differently which is having a positive impact in our lives, but we need to be careful that we don't allow poor habits and attitudes to settle as well which will rob us of true comfort.
Over a month of social distancing is beginning to get to people. The last thing you and I need to do is deny how we are doing. In today's message, I take a look at how David was able to overcome isolation through confession and how we too can find comfort in the midst of this COVID-19 crisis.
Social distancing might stop the spread of one virus but I believe it is causing the spread of another. Today, I talk about how to practice proper spiritual distancing in an age of social distancing.
Death is something we all have to deal with, yet the Easter story shows us exactly how we can deal with it.
In the last part of our LENT series, Pastor Tito helps us to look beyond the present to find a level of HOPE that can influence how we live our lives during this historic moment.
Everyone is having a hard time adjusting to the impact that COVID-19 is having around the world. The question Pastor Tito answers today is making sure you have enough of what matters most. Hint: You can't buy it at a store or get it online.
Especially during dark and difficult times, we need to remember that our problems are no match for God's powers.
COVID-19 has gripped the attention of the world. What matters now is does God still have the attention of His people? Pastor Tito brings a message today on what we can do when we are faced with uncertainty and anxiety.
Walking with God in faith requires work. God has a part to play and so do we as believers. Things won't work out if we try to figure it all out without God. We need Him more than we understand.
LENT is a yearly routine that Christians go through that is meant to become a daily reminder of who God is, what Jesus has done for us, and why it matters still today. This week, we begin to answer the question of what is wrong in the world by remember where everything went wrong and how Jesus made things right!
Do you know that it is possible to win battles in life and yet lose the war for what matters most? You can change your circumstances and make a difference when you learn to charge it!
The devil loves to mask good things that God has given us to make us think we no longer need God. The reality is that we all long to be loved, and the devil knows this. Romantic relationships are meant to give us a better picture of TRUE love between us and God. If we don't unmask the devil's lies, we will replace God with the very thing He gave us to point us towards a relationship with Him.
In order to keep us from experiencing the true joy that it is to follow Jesus, the devil will mask what true religion looks like by getting caught up in religious activities that are empty. Pastor Tito looks at Jesus' last public lesson before dying on the cross to unmask that lie so we can learn how to enjoy life in Christ.
The devil wants people to buy into the lie that we can ENJOY OURSELVES outside of God's ways. In this message, Pastor Tito shows God's priority list on how we can have stuff and how we should use it.
In our current series, The Devil Wears: Unmasking Temptation, I expose the lies of the enemy so that we can learn how to truly enjoy life. This week, I am talking about why we tend to get caught in the devil's traps and how we can avoid being the same old us in this new year.
Jesus fulfilled an incredible number of prophecies about His birth, life, death, and resurrection to prove to us that He was no ordinary person and the life that we have in Him is no orordinaryidnary life.
When we find ourselves in a dark place (emotionally, mentally, and spiritually) then we must allow the following to happen...Let there be
This Christmas, lets step back and see how incredible the gift of Christ is for all who believe.
This four-week series examines the disappointments people face in a broken world full of broken people. Using different Psalms, this series deals with expectations, disappointment, trusting God with our desires, abusive relationships, boundaries, and forgiveness.
This six-week series explores the stories of six women in Jesus’s genealogy and life, revealing the various ways they have been misunderstood or marginalized. Through these stories, we witness the way the biblical narrative was uniquely communicated through their lives and are reminded not to overlook others. Where the culture may have silenced or rejected these women, their inclusion in Jesus’s genealogy or his elevation of them during his life give us a guide for using our influence and power to build up the marginalized in our own lives
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Today's Hidden Figure: Martha
This six-week series explores the stories of six women in Jesus’s genealogy and life, revealing the various ways they have been misunderstood or marginalized. Through these stories, we witness the way the biblical narrative was uniquely communicated through their lives and are reminded not to overlook others. Where the culture may have silenced or rejected these women, their inclusion in Jesus’s genealogy or his elevation of them during his life give us a guide for using our influence and power to build up the marginalized in our own lives
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Today's Hidden Figure: Bathsheba
This six-week series explores the stories of six women in Jesus’s genealogy and life, revealing the various ways they have been misunderstood or marginalized. Through these stories, we witness the way the biblical narrative was uniquely communicated through their lives and are reminded not to overlook others. Where the culture may have silenced or rejected these women, their inclusion in Jesus’s genealogy or his elevation of them during his life give us a guide for using our influence and power to build up the marginalized in our own lives
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Today's Hidden Figure: RUTH
This six-week series explores the stories of six women in Jesus’s genealogy and life, revealing the various ways they have been misunderstood or marginalized. Through these stories, we witness the way the biblical narrative was uniquely communicated through their lives and are reminded not to overlook others. Where the culture may have silenced or rejected these women, their inclusion in Jesus’s genealogy or his elevation of them during his life give us a guide for using our influence and power to build up the marginalized in our own lives.
Today's Hidden Figure: RAHAB
This six-week series explores the stories of six women in Jesus’s genealogy and life, revealing the various ways they have been misunderstood or marginalized. Through these stories, we witness the way the biblical narrative was uniquely communicated through their lives and are reminded not to overlook others. Where the culture may have silenced or rejected these women, their inclusion in Jesus’s genealogy or his elevation of them during his life give us a guide for using our influence and power to build up the marginalized in our own lives.
Today's Hidden Figure: TAMAR
It is through God’s grace that the Holy Spirit gives us a hope that produces a holy lifestyle. Until the end of times, our beliefs about God should be marked by the following three behaviors in the mean-time: training, waiting and working.
In Christ and through the Holy Spirit, we have a future hope that produce a present happiness. We must guard against the assignments from our enemy, who desire to distract us from that life giving hope by anchoring us to our past pains.
God's ENDGAME involves the Lord raising up the Church around the world as His instrument in overthrowing reign of darkness and extending Christ’s victory over evil. So when life gets tough in the present, we need to look to God’s endgame for the future. Knowing this produces a hope in us that encourages us to live impactful lives even now. This is all possible through the power of the Holy Spirit of God.
How to oppose the enemy’s assignment over your life. Christians need to be sober-minded and watchful against the devil's endgame for us so that we can continue to plunder hell and populate heaven!
The Apocalyptic Books in the Bible are meant for more than just trying to predict the future. They give us a glimpse of a future hope that inspires us to live faithfully and powerfully in the present.
The Epistles are a collection of letters in the New Testament that was written to individuals and Churches to help bring clarity to how to live by and apply the New Covenant and the New Commandment that Christ gave his Church, which was to love others as Jesus loved us. This one rule closes all the loopholes to sin, even when it is not clearly defined in the Bible.
The Gospels contain a revolutionary narrative, showcasing how Jesus bridges the gap between everything God is doing in the world in the Old Testament and the new things that he was about to do in the world.
The Prophetic Books of the Bible contain amazing proclamations of a God who is relentless in loving a restless people. In these books, we can see God's heart for us today, as He has made a way through Jesus in the Spirit for everyone to come back to the Father!
The Bible has five books that are found in the categorized as the Wisdom Books (Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Solomon). Not only do they contain wise sayings that we can apply to our lives but they also reveal how no amount of understanding can produce a wise person. In this sermon you realize that wisdom is not something we seek but rather someone who seeks us.
The books from Joshua through Esther cover over 1,000 of Jewish history. The narrative that is found in this category titled the History Books of the Bible, not only tell us a story of a nation, but it reveals who God is and how what part He is playing in writing us into His incredible story of love.
The first five books of the Bible (The Books of the Law) are difficult for some people to read, yet they are so important for us to better understand who God really is. In this episode, I'm going to help you understand the big picture of this section of the Bible so you can gain a better picture of God's love for you!
This series focuses on how to read the Bible and understand that God reveals his will and desires for humankind through each specific section of the Bible.
This week, Pastor Tito talks about why the Bible is divided into the OLD & NEW Testament and why they both matter for our faith today!
You can also read Pastor Tito's SERMON SUMMARIES on MEDIUM.COM/@titosotolongo
Many of us are familiar with the stories in the Bible, but many of us are unaware of the amazing story of how and why we got the Bible. In this episode, I explore why this ancient origin story is so important to us today!
Many people think Christianity is based on the Bible. It's not. It's foundation is actually something better. This episode is an introduction to a series I'm going to start called BINGE READING THE BIBLE.