LBC Candler: Recent Episodes
Liberty Baptist Church
The weekly messages from Derrick McCarson, Pastor of Liberty Baptist Church located in Candler, NC. Listen as Pastor Derrick examines the Word of God and how it applies to our daily lives and our walk with Christ. Check out our link for even more sermons from Rev. McCarson.
Passage: Genesis 6:8-22
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Origins
Category: Faith, Obedience, Christ , Gospel, Genesis , Noah
Summary:
Just think - because of one man’s persistent obedience the world is different today. That man was Noah who built the Ark “for the saving of his household” and humanity. In today’s message we will learn how to have unsinkable faith like Noah.
Passage: Genesis 6:1-8
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Origins
Category: Prophecy , Christ , Gospel, Genesis , Rapture, Return of Christ , Noah
Summary:
In Jesus’ Olivet Discourse, we read that one of the signs of the last days is that world conditions will resemble “the days of Noah” (Matt. 24:37). In today’s message we will note the parallels of our world and Noah’s. Moreover, we will understand how we are to respond.
Passage: Genesis 5:21-24
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Origins
Category: Prophecy , Gospel, Genesis , Rapture
Summary:
Enoch is one of the most fascinating patriarchs in the pre-Flood era. He walked with God, witnessed for God and was winged away by God! In this message, we will study him through the lens of prophecy and see how he is an OT picture of the church.
Passage: Genesis 4:1-16
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Origins
Category: Faith, Christ , Gospel, Genesis , Forgiveness
Summary:
The story of Cain and Abel is a tragic tale of two brothers. They are contrasted not only in their worship, but also in their character. One chose life, while the other chose death. In this message we will see three dangerous choices that Cain made.
Passage: John 21:1-19
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: The Gospel of John
Category: Easter , Resurrection of Christ , John, Gospel
Summary:
When Jesus burst from the tomb on that resurrection morning, not only was death conquered, but Christ proved that He could reverse any hopeless situation and bring victory from the jaws of defeat. In this breakfast scene with Jesus, we learn four powerful Easter lessons.
Passage: John 20:24-29
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: The Gospel of John
Category: Easter , Resurrection of Christ , Christ , Gospel
Summary:
When the Risen Christ met up with Thomas, eight days after His resurrection, the Lord presented proof of His love and power by showing the doubter His scars.
Passage: John 20:11-18
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: The Gospel of John
Category: Easter , Resurrection of Christ , Christ , Gospel
Summary:
Mary Magdalene and Jesus shared a tender moment at the empty tomb. In this message, we go back to that scene of joy and resurrection wonder.
Passage: John 20:1-10
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: The Gospel of John
Category: Resurrection of Christ , John, Christ , Gospel
Summary:
In this message, we will examine the seven signs of Easter that proved the truth of the resurrection.
Passage: Genesis 3:7-24
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Origins
Category: Faith, Christ , Gospel, Genesis , Salvation, Sin
Summary:
With one bite from the forbidden fruit our first parents plunged the world into depravity, decay and death. Adam and Eve were ashamed and exiled from God’s garden. Paradise was lost. Yet, even in this dark chapter there are glimmers of Gospel hope.
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Origins
Category: Christ , Gospel, Genesis , Sin, Creation , Temptation
Summary:
Adam and Eve barely had a chance to enjoy their honeymoon before Satan came slithering into Eden. In Genesis 3, the Devil’s tactics of temptation are reveled. In this message we will learn about 4 ways that the Enemy entices us into sin.
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Origins
Category: Marriage, Christ , Gospel, Genesis
Summary:
God presided over the first wedding between Adam and Eve. Marriage was God’s idea and if we want to have happy, healthy homes then we must follow His blueprint. In this message, we will learn four attributes of a biblical marriage.
Passage: Genesis 2:4-25
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Origins
Category: Marriage, Gospel, Genesis , Family
Summary:
God placed the first man and woman in a idyllic garden home. Have you ever wondered what Eden was like? Where was it? And what about the tree of the knowledge of good and evil? In this message, we will spend a day exploring paradise.
Passage: Genesis 2:1-3
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Origins
Category: Church , Christ , Gospel, Genesis , Creation
Summary:
God looked over His creation with satisfaction because it was “very good.” With the work of creation complete, God rested on the 7th day, thus creating the Sabbath. In this message we will explore the ‘what’ and ‘why’ of the day of rest.
Passage: Genesis 1:26-31
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Origins
Category: Marriage, Christ , Gospel, Genesis , Creation
Summary:
The crowning achievement of creation week was the making of man on Day 6. In today’s message we are going to answer the question: is man made in God’s image OR is God made in the imagination of man?
Passage: Genesis 1:20-25
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Origins
Category: Apologetics, Gospel, Genesis , Creation
Summary:
On days 5 and 6 of creation, God filled the skies and seas with fish and fowl. Then He made every kind of land animal from the tiny ant to the towering elephant. In today’s message we will undo the lie of evolution as we behold the God of creatures great and small.
Passage: Genesis 1:14-19
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Origins
Category: Apologetics, Christ , Genesis , Creation
Summary:
On day four of creation week, God assigned the planets to their orbits and hung the stars in space. In this message we will learn what the creation of the celestial bodies teaches us about the character of God.
Passage: Genesis 1:2-13
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Origins
Category: Apologetics, Genesis , Creation
Summary:
God created the universe in six days and He didn’t even lift a finger! In this message we are going to delve deep into the first 3 days of creation. Are these literal, 24-hour days or long ages of billions of years? And why does it matter?
Passage: Genesis 1:1
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Origins
Category: Apologetics, Genesis , Creation
Summary:
In just ten words, the Bible explains the origin of all things in Genesis 1:1. In this message, we will break down this foundational verse and understand 4 principles about God as Creator.
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Giving God Your Yes
Category: Surrender, Salvation, Discipleship
Summary:
In this message, we will discover why the Lord deserves our "Yes!"
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Christmas 2023
Category: Christmas , Luke, Incarnation
Summary:
In the Gospel of Luke, Mary is given three prophecies about the unique identity and destiny of her Christ child.
Passage: Luke 2:36-38
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Christmas 2023
Category: Christmas , Luke, Incarnation
Summary:
Tucked away in the Christmas story is an obscure, little widow named Anna. She appears for a moment to behold the Christ child and then disappears from Scripture. Yet, her simple story teaches us 3 important lessons.
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Christmas 2023
Category: Christmas , Matthew, Incarnation
Summary:
Ever since the birth of Christ, skeptics and Scrooges have tried to cancel Christmas. In this message, we will look at three reasons why Christmas can never be cancelled in the hearts of God’s people.
Passage: Matthew 6:19-24
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: The Joy of Giving
Category: Sermon on the Mount , Stewardship, Matthew, Money
Summary:
It may surprise you, but Jesus taught more about financial stewardship than He did about heaven and hell. As we enter this season of giving we need a reminder of why we give to God. In this message, Jesus teaches 4 important principles about investing for eternity.
Passage: Acts 16:23-34
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Thanksgiving 2023
Category: Thanksgiving , Acts
Summary:
In this message we will learn 3 ways that the act of worship and gratitude to God can minister to us and others.
Passage: John 7:37-39
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire
Category: Holy Spirit , John
Summary:
During the Feast of Tabernacles, Jesus preached a sermon promising the coming of the Holy Spirit who would be like a bubbling spring inside believers. In this message, we explore 3 attributes of the ministry of the Spirit as related to the symbol of water.
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire
Category: Holy Spirit , Sanctification
Summary:
One of the recurring symbols for the the Holy Spirit is fire. In this message, we explore three traits of the Holy Spirit as pictured in fire.
Passage: Matthew 3:13-17
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire
Category: Holy Spirit , Matthew, Salvation, Sanctification
Summary:
At the baptism of Jesus, the Holy Spirit anointed Christ for ministry in the form of a dove. What’s the deeper meaning behind this symbolism and how does it apply to our Christian life? In today’s message we will look at 3 attributes of the Holy Spirit as our divine dove.
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire
Category: Acts, Holy Spirit , John, Church , Genesis
Summary:
Of the dozen or so word pictures that the Bible associates with the Holy Spirit, a blowing wind is one symbolic metaphor that speaks of the multi-faceted ministry that He exerts in our lives. In today’s message we will learn 3 ways in which the Holy Spirit ministers like a breeze.
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire
Category: Holy Spirit , John, Salvation, Sanctification , Romans
Summary:
The Bible has many names for the Holy Spirit - Helper, Comforter, Teacher, Advocate & Paraclete. In today’s message we will learn how He helps the believer with five amazing ministries for a Spirit-filled life!
Passage: John 16:7-11
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire
Category: Holy Spirit , John, Salvation, Sin
Summary:
The Bible has many symbols for the Holy Spirit - a gentle dove, a holy fire, a rushing wind. But the first way we get to know Him is like a prosecuting attorney who presents incriminating evidence against us. In this message we will study the role of Holy Spirit in convicting and converting sinners.
Passage: Acts 2:1-13
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire
Category: Acts, Holy Spirit , Church , Salvation
Summary:
The day of Pentecost was like the detonation of spiritual dynamite. The church was born with a bang! In this message, we will study what happened on that amazing day and how the same Spirit helps us today!
Passage: Ezekiel 36:26-27
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire
Category: Holy Spirit
Summary:
The Holy Spirit is the least understood member of the Trinity, that familiar stranger who is either abused or just plain neglected. For so many it’s a question of Father, Son and Who? In today’s message we are going to begin a journey of discovery as we try to better understand the person, work and ministry of the Holy Spirit.
Passage: 1 Timothy 4:1
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Headlines from Tomorrow
Category: Prophecy , End-Times
Summary:
Occultism, addiction, widespread evil, and the breakdown of society - all these are evidence of the thickening spiritual darkness enveloping our world. In this message, we will examine this last days' prophecy and how we can respond biblically.
Passage: Daniel 12:4
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Headlines from Tomorrow
Category: Prophecy , End-Times, Revelation, Daniel
Summary:
What do emerging technologies like AI and digital currency have to do with the end times? In this message we will try to understand how technology will play a significant role in our future and God's prophetic plan.
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Headlines from Tomorrow
Category: Prophecy , End-Times, Revelation, Genesis , Government, Daniel
Summary:
It's gone by many names - "The League of Nations," "New World Order" and more recently, "The Great Reset." Each of these agendas have one goal in mind - globalism. In this message we will study the theme of a one-world government from Genesis to Revelation.
Passage: Amos 8:11-12
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Headlines from Tomorrow
Category: Prophecy , End-Times, Amos
Summary:
The Bible predicts that famines will cause bellies to groan during the Tribulation. But the worst kind of all is spiritual famine, which is also an end-times sign. In today's message we will learn about the nature of spiritual famine and how we see it starving millions of souls in these last days.
Passage: Luke 17:28-30
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Headlines from Tomorrow
Category: Apologetics, Prophecy , End-Times, Luke, LGBT
Summary:
The current LGBTQ agenda has America slouching towards Sodom more every day. In this message we are going to explore what Jesus meant by "the days of Lot" as an end-times sign and what practical lessons we ought to learn as we see the second coming of Sodom.
Passage: Ezekiel 38:1-39:22
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Headlines from Tomorrow
Category: Prophecy , End-Times
Summary:
Almost 2,500 years-ago the prophet Ezekiel predicted Russia's rise to power and a coalition of nations who try to wipe Israel off the map in the last days. In this message we will explore Ezekiel's "Gog and Magog" war and how one day we may read the headline, "WWIII in Israel."
Passage: 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Headlines from Tomorrow
Category: Prophecy , End-Times, Church , Rapture
Summary:
One day soon the world is going to be shocked when millions go missing. Its difficult to fathom the chaos and confusion that will ensue. In today's message, we will learn that the next event on God's prophetic calendar is the Rapture of the church - when Christ comes to take His people out of this world.
Passage: Genesis 48:1-21
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Father's Day 2023
Category: Father's Day
Summary:
The last act of the godly patriarch, Jacob, was to embrace the sons of Joseph and bless them. In today's message, we will take inspiration from the father’s blessing. Here are 4 ways dads can “lay hands” on their kids and bless them.
Passage: 1 Chronicles 28:1-29:28
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: David: The Shepherd-King
Category: David, 1 Chronicles, Legacy
Summary:
"I go the way of all the earth." Those were some of David's last words to his son, Solomon, before he died (1 Kings 2:2). In today's message, David's epic life comes to an end. The crown rested on his brow for 40 years. In his last act as king, David teaches us three lessons about how to leave a godly legacy.
Passage: 2 Samuel 24:1-25
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: David: The Shepherd-King
Category: Resurrection of Christ , David, Gospel, Sin, 2 Samuel
Summary:
The book of 2 Samuel can be summarized into three acts: David's triumphs (1-10), David's transgressions (11-12), and David's troubles (12-24). As the book closes, we see David stumbling at the finish line. This critical error would cost him dearly. Once again, David would suffer God's judgment, but he would also see His abundant mercy.
Passage: John 15:1-8
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: The Gospel of John
Category: John, Christ
Summary:
In John 15, Jesus gave one of His most famous lessons, which includes one of His seven “I AM” statements unique to John’s Gospel. In this analogy, Jesus compared the Christian life to a grapevine. In this message we will discover the spiritual secrets of the vine.
Passage: 2 Samuel 15:1-18:33
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: David: The Shepherd-King
Category: Christ , Gospel, 2 Samuel, Absalom
Summary:
A chasm of grief, anger and bitterness left David and Absalom estranged. What follows in 2 Sam. 15-18 is the rest of the fallout from David’s family feud. A civil war of epic proportions erupted in Israel which pitted father against son. In this tragic episode of David's life we learn a lot about the pain of betrayal and see glimmers of the Gospel.
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Mother's Day 2023
Category: Mother's Day
Summary:
In this message, we will learn 5 practical ways to honor our mothers.
Passage: John 14:12-16:14
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: The Gospel of John
Category: Holy Spirit , John, Christ
Summary:
In Jesus' Upper Room Discourse, our Lord prepared the disciples for His departure by instructing them on the person and ministry of the Holy Spirit. In this message we will learn 5 essential works of the Holy Spirit and how He relates to our lives.
Passage: 2 Samuel 13:1-14:28
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: David: The Shepherd-King
Category: David, Gospel, Reconciliation , Sin, 2 Samuel
Summary:
Sin can be forgiven, but God allows the consequences to play out. That's the painful lesson from the rest of David's life. The next chapters show us how David’s sin puts his family on a collision course with heartache and tragedy.
Passage: John 14:1-6
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: The Gospel of John
Category: Eternity, Heaven, John, Christ
Summary:
People's ideas and guesses about the afterlife are as diverse as a bag of mixed nuts! One thing is for sure, they can't all be right. In John 14, Jesus spoke of the believer's heavenly hope. Not only does He dispel several popular myths about heaven, but He teaches us three rock solid truths that we can anchor our faith to.
Passage: 2 Samuel 12:1-14
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: David: The Shepherd-King
Category: David, Sin, 2 Samuel
Summary:
The moment finally came when David could no longer hide his sin. With Nathan's finger in his face, David heard the stinging guilty verdict, "You are the man!" In this message we study what happened to David when he tried to hide his sin and how God deals with us when we've got skeletons in the closet
Passage: John 13:1-17
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: The Gospel of John
Category: John, Christ , Gospel, Surrender, Humility, Servanthood
Summary:
When Jesus stooped to wash the dirty feet of the disciples He redefined what it means to be a servant. Jesus proved not only to be the Lord of Glory, but the Lord of the towel. In this classic scene, Jesus taught us 4 features of true humility, love and servanthood.
Passage: 2 Samuel 11:1-27
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: David: The Shepherd-King
Category: David, Gospel, Sin, 2 Samuel
Summary:
We’ve seen David at his best—defeating Goliath, doing good towards his enemy Saul, being crowned king of Jerusalem, and showing incredible grace towards the cripple Miphiboseth—but here we see David at his worst. Here we see David, the adulterer; David, the murderer. The giant that slew David was a subtle sin that came sneaking in through his open window shade
Passage: John 12:12-19
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: The Gospel of John
Category: John, Christ , Gospel
Summary:
The Triumphal Entry of Jesus marked a turning point in His ministry. As He rode into Jerusalem on a donkey, He was hailed as king. But by the week's end, He would be hanging on a cross. In this peculiar scene, Jesus got to be king for a day. His presentation to Israel shows us 3 unique attributes of His kingship.
Passage: 2 Samuel 9:1-13
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: David: The Shepherd-King
Category: David, Christ , Gospel, 2 Samuel
Summary:
There is no clearer OT example of amazing grace than what David did for the cripple Mephibosheth. In this message we will study this story from 2 Samuel 9 and note the parallels to the grace we have in Christ.
Passage: 2 Timothy 3:16
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Lies About God
Category: Apologetics
Summary:
If you have ever tried to witness to a friend you’ve probably been stumped by this objection, “The Bible can’t be trusted” What would say? What kind of evidence would you cite to back up your beliefs? In this message, we will look at four compelling lines of evidence that point to the reliability and uniqueness of the Bible.
Passage: 2 Samuel 7:1-16
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: David: The Shepherd-King
Category: Calling, David, Christ , 2 Samuel
Summary:
One of the most disappointing moments in the Christian life can be hearing God say, “No.” In 2 Samuel 7, King David had to let go of his dream of building God a permanent house of worship. Instead, David's dream was deferred. In this message, we will find out how to respond when God changes our plans.
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Lies About God
Category: Apologetics, Cross, Gospel, Hell
Summary:
Hell is a doctrine that has virtually disappeared from most pulpits. Yet, the Bible is replete with warnings, descriptions and evidence that it is a very real place. In this message, we are going to debunk the lie which says, "God is too loving to send anyone to hell." We will also understand the reasons why Hell must be.
Passage: 2 Samuel 6:1-15
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: David: The Shepherd-King
Category: Obedience, David, Christ , Worship, Sin, 2 Samuel
Summary:
David's heart was in the right place. He wanted to bring the long, lost Ark of the Covenant back to Jerusalem. However, his methods sabotaged his motives. 2 Sam. 6 is a classic example of doing the right thing in the wrong way. The consequences were disastrous. In this message, we will learn the importance of doing God's will, God's way!
Passage: John 14:6
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Lies About God
Category: Apologetics, John, Christ , Gospel
Summary:
One of the most pervasive lies in the culture today says, "It doesn't matter what you believe, all paths lead to God." Where did this come from? And what would you say to someone who made this claim? In today's message, we will debunk this lie by delving deep into one of Jesus' most famous statements about His deity.
Passage: 2 Samuel 5:1-10
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: David: The Shepherd-King
Category: 2 Samuel
Summary:
In 2 Sam. 5, Israel’s newly minted king has his first challenge—to drive out the enemy from Jerusalem so he could establish the city as the new capital of his kingdom. David teaches us a lot about taking down Satanic strongholds in our spiritual lives. He shows us three requirements for how to take down a stronghold.
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Lies About God
Category: Mark , Gospel, Grace
Summary:
A recent Barna poll indicated that 8 out of 10 Americans believe the statement, "God helps those who help themselves" is in the Bible. But is that true? Today we will debunk this lie by studying Jesus' encounter with blind Bartimaeus. This miracle healing teaches us 3 powerful lessons about the grace of God.
Passage: 2 Samuel 1:1-2:4
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: David: The Shepherd-King
Category: Suffering, Trials , David, 2 Samuel
Summary:
The opening chapters of 2 Samuel closes one epoch in David’s life and begins a new one. Finally, his promotion day has arrived. He has come a long way from watching over his father’s sheep in the pasture to the palace. In today's message we will see three ways that God prepared David to be king.
Passage: 2 Corinthians 1:8-9
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Lies About God
Category: Apologetics, Suffering, Christ , 2 Corinthians
Summary:
I'm sure you've heard the saying before, "God won't give you more than you can handle." This statement is intended to be helpful, but what we really need to know is if its biblical. In this message we are going to debunk this myth and I want to help you understand why God allows suffering.
Passage: Philippians 2:5-11
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Christmas 2022
Category: Christmas , Miracles, Christ , Incarnation, Philippians
Summary:
During Christmas we see a lot of plays and pageants, and we hear a lot of sermons and songs that try to explain the Christmas message from every conceivable angle – Mary, Jospeh, the shepherds, angels and even the little drummer boy. But what did Christmas mean for Jesus? In Phil. 2, we find a six verse summary of what Christmas meant to Jesus.
Passage: Luke 2:22-35
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Christmas 2022
Category: Christmas , Luke
Summary:
Simeon appears in the Christmas story as a minor character who offers a mysterious prophecy to Mary and Joseph about baby Jesus. In this message we are going to study this eccentric man and draw a few lessons from his example.
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Christmas 2022
Category: Christmas , Christ , Gospel
Summary:
In the classic Christmas movie, Its a Wonderful Life, George Bailey gets a glimpse of what life would be like if he was never born. What if we applied that to Jesus? In this message we will explore the idea of what our world would be like if there was no Christmas. I will explain four reasons why there must be Christmas!
Passage: 1 Samuel 28:1-31:10
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: David: The Shepherd-King
Category: 1 Samuel, Sin, Saul
Summary:
No man in Scripture ever had a brighter beginning, or a sadder ending, than King Saul. Yet, despite all his advantages, Saul’s character flaws and blatant sin sabotaged his career. In this message we will learn about 4 critical mistakes that led to Saul's demise and his tragic end. DISCLAIMER: About 5 minutes of this sermon is missing. The reason is because we had a power loss during the worship service, which was caused by a transformer blowing up. However, we were able to salvage most of this message.
Passage: Psalms 100:1-5
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Thanksgiving 2022
Category: Thanksgiving , Psalms, Christ , Gospel
Summary:
Psalm 100 is a classic passage on the theme of thanksgiving. At just five verses, it’s one of the shortest psalms, but the more you meditate on it, you see a lot of truth stuffed in a small package. In the message today, we are going to discover 5 traits of God’s character that lead us to worship and gratitude.
Passage: Genesis 3:1-7
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Lies About God
Category: Apologetics, Prophecy , End-Times
Summary:
Humanism is probably the world's oldest religion and it says, "Man is the measure of all things." Today, people are going a step further with the religion of Transhumanism, which says that "man is God." In this message we are going to debunk this ancient lie and see how it has prophetic implications.
Passage: 2 Kings 19:1-37
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: The Prayer That Saved a Nation
Category: America , Prayer , Miracles, 2 Kings , Faith
Summary:
In just a few days, Americans will be returning to the polls to select new leadership. But prayer is a more powerful tool in shaping the destiny of a nation than a ballot, but sadly its often neglected. In today's message we will learn how the prayer of one man changed history and saved God's people.
Passage: 1 Samuel 27:1-30:6
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: David: The Shepherd-King
Category: David, Christ , 1 Samuel, Gospel, Sin
Summary:
Detours usually aren't planned for. Sometimes we are forced into them by life's trials, other times we take them by our own sinful choices. In 1 Sam. 27 David takes a critical detour out of God's will. In this message we will learn 4 lessons about what sinful detours can do and how God can get us back on track.
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Lies About God
Category: Apologetics, Faith, Salvation
Summary:
According to the trends skepticism and atheism are on the rise, especially among young adults. Chances are you probably know someone who lives with no fear of God. How do we give them clear and compelling evidence that points to His existence? In this message, we will debunk the lie that "God doesn't exist."
Passage: 1 Samuel 25:2-42
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: David: The Shepherd-King
Category: David, 1 Samuel
Summary:
The saying goes that "Behind every good man, there is a great woman." That was certainly true in David's case and the events leading up to his marriage to Abigail. Were it not for Dear Abby's actions, David could have committed a big blunder. In today's message we will study how this scene points us to Christ and the Gospel in some surprising ways.
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Lies About God
Category: America , Race, Reconciliation
Summary:
The cult of "wokeism" has corrupted the church and it threatens us to conform or be cancelled. In this message we will debunk the woke worldview. I want to show you four ways that being culturally woke makes you spiritually broke.
Passage: 1 Samuel 24:1-20
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: David: The Shepherd-King
Category: David, Christ , 1 Samuel, Gospel, Forgiveness
Summary:
David has been the number one fugitive on Israel's "most wanted" list. Then Saul strolled into the cave where David was hiding. With a knife in hand and his enemy in reach, David faced a choice: revenge or reconciliation. In today's message we are going to learn several principles for how to act when you've been wronged.
Passage: 1 Corinthians 6:9-20
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Lies About God
Category: Apologetics, Christ , Gospel, Forgiveness, LGBT
Summary:
Recent Gallup polls indicate that 7% of US adults self-identify as "gay," making this the "gayest" generation on record. The LBGT agenda has permeated every aspect of modern society. One lie that is being told by the culture and churches today is "God is gay." In this message, we will debunk this lie and find out how we should respond as Christians.
Passage: John 18:36-37
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Lies About God
Category: Christ , Politics
Summary:
A major talking point of socialists is that if Jesus were running for office today, He would be a socialist too. In this message, we are going to debunk this lie, while examining the empty promises of socialism. Let's think biblically about this issue and how we should respond.
Passage: 1 Samuel 21:1-22:23
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: David: The Shepherd-King
Category: David, Christ , 1 Samuel, Sin
Summary:
In 1 Sam. 21-22 we see David hit a low point on his way to the throne. He’s running scared. But when we are running scared, fear overrides faith and we start making bad decisions. In the message today, we are going to learn three life lessons from David about running scared.
Passage: 1 Samuel 18:1-16
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: David: The Shepherd-King
Category: Ministry, David, 1 Samuel
Summary:
As Goliath fell with a thud, David rose to meteoric heights. He went from zero to hero, from shepherd-boy to giant-killer! 1 Sam. 18 describes how David's great victory was nearly turned into a defeat. This chapter teaches us a lot about how to handle God’s blessing and how to deal with the sin of jealousy. As always, you’ll be surprised how this OT story points to Jesus and the Gospel.
Passage: John 12:1-11
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: The Gospel of John
Category: John, Worship
Summary:
In John 12, Jesus is the guest of honor at a banquet, and He’s surrounded by a cast of four characters that stand out – Lazarus, Martha, Mary and Judas. I submit that each person represents a different member in the local church. In this message, ask yourself, “What is my place at God’s table?”
Passage: 1 Samuel 17:1-58
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: David: The Shepherd-King
Category: David, Christ , 1 Samuel, Gospel
Summary:
David vs. Goliath is the grandaddy underdog story of all time! However, if you've grown up hearing this story all your life in church, chances are someone important is left out - Jesus! In this message, I want to show you how this epic showdown is meant to be an OT picture of Christ.
Passage: John 11:1-44
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: The Gospel of John
Category: Miracles, John, Christ , Gospel, Resurrection
Summary:
We all have a terminal disease called mortality. The current death rate is staggering: 10 out of 10 die. It's fitting that Jesus' last and most epic sign miracle in John's Gospel confronts man's worst enemy and philosophy's greatest problem. In Bethany's cemetery, Jesus shows that He's Lord over three mysterious arenas that are outside of our control.
Passage: 1 Samuel 16:14-23
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: David: The Shepherd-King
Category: David, 1 Samuel, Providence
Summary:
David went from singing to the sheep, to serenading the savage Saul. The Lord providentially moved David from the pasture to the palace. As we study this episode in David's life, we will notice how God perfectly orders the events of our lives to accomplish His grand purposes and move us to the next place of service.
Passage: 1 Samuel 16:1-13
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: David: The Shepherd-King
Category: Calling, David, Christ , 1 Samuel
Summary:
Before David led in the palace, he lived in the pasture. 1 Sam 16 records the story of David's calling by the prophet. In this message we are going to discover that God's calling is radically different from the world - its a matter of the heart.
Passage: John 10:1-29
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: The Gospel of John
Category: John, Christ , Shepherd
Summary:
One of Jesus famous "I AM" statements is found in John 10 when He said, "I am the Good Shepherd." Jesus was claiming to be the fulfillment of Psalm 23. In every way that the sheep look to the shepherd for guidance, protection and provision, we look to Jesus for everything. In this message, we are going to learn four special ministries of Jesus in the role of our Good Shepherd.
Passage: 2 Chronicles 34:1-21
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Reviving the Nation
Category: Worship, Revival , 2 Chronicles
Summary:
A special sermon preached on the eve of Independence Day 2022 drawing on Josiah's revival to help us turn back to God.
Passage: John 9:1-11
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: The Gospel of John
Category: Miracles, John, Gospel
Summary:
In Jesus' sixth sign miracle we see Him confront two huge problems of the human condition. First, "Why does God allow suffering?" and second, is the malady of spiritual blindness. In both respects we find the answer in Jesus' claim to be "the light of the world."
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Father's Day 2022
Category: Father's Day , Family
Summary:
A special sermon preached on Father's Day 2022 outlining 5 attributes of fatherhood from selected Scriptures.
Passage: John 8:1-11
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: The Gospel of John
Category: John, Christ , Gospel, Grace
Summary:
Jesus' encounter with the woman caught in adultery is one of the most famous stories of "amazing grace" in the Bible. The way Jesus tenderly, but firmly deals with the Pharisee’s self-righteousness and this woman’s immorality teaches us some unforgettable lessons on grace.
Passage: Psalms 11:1-7
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Living with Confidence in a Chaotic World
Category: America , End-Times, Faith, Psalms, Endurance
Summary:
The words of Psalm 11, written some 3,000 years ago, capture the angst, fear and uncertainty of our times as we see things fall apart morally, politically, economically and culturally. What can the righteous do? We will draw wisdom and strength from this insightfully relevant hymn.
Passage: John 6:15-21
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: The Gospel of John
Category: Miracles, Faith, John, Storms, Grace
Summary:
The fifth sign of John’s Gospel features a perfect storm. The question before us today is – “How do we survive the storms of life?” John 6:15-21 gives us several lessons that we can use as anchoring points in life when the winds and waves kick up a fight.
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Living with Confidence in a Chaotic World
Category: Prophecy , End-Times, Spiritual Warfare , Christ , Ephesians
Summary:
With the rampant spiritual chaos and moral decay in this country we can see how Satan’s tactics are becoming bolder and more in-your-face. In this message, I not only want to convince you of the reality of spiritual warfare, but I also want to equip you for the battle.
Passage: John 6:1-14
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: The Gospel of John
Category: Miracles, Faith, John, Andrew, Christ , Gospel
Summary:
Jesus' miraculous meal is set in the context of a test for His disciples. Likewise, God will use shortage in our lives to test our faith. Notice three ways that God will use problems to deepen our trust in His provision.
Passage: Genesis 21:8-21
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Mother's Day 2022
Category: Mother's Day, Faith, Genesis , Hagar
Summary:
Hagar is one of the lesser known mothers in the Bible. Yet, she was a woman who was equal parts tough and tender. This slave girl played a significant role in Abraham's household and her episode of desperation in the desert is a struggle that many many moms can relate to.
Passage: John 5:22-30
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: The Gospel of John
Category: Eternity, Heaven, John, Christ , Rapture, Salvation, Hell
Summary:
If you were to ask the average person on the street today – “Who is Jesus?” You’d get various and contradictory opinions - a prophet, a good moral teacher or an example of love and compassion. Almost no one would describe him as "Just Judge" - yet that's exactly who He is according to John 5.
Passage: Genesis 2:21-3:6
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Living with Confidence in a Chaotic World
Category: Marriage, Genesis , Family
Summary:
The family is under attack like never before. Basic definitions of sexuality and marriage are being undermined by a culture that has lost touch with reality. In the crosshairs of this Satanic attack is our children. In this message, we are going to wade through the chaos and devise a plan for our leading our families by faith.
Passage: Luke 24:13-34
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Easter 2022
Category: Easter , Resurrection of Christ , Christ , Gospel, Luke
Summary:
The encounter of the two disciples with the Risen Jesus on the road to Emmaus is one of the most relatable resurrection appearances in the NT. Often times we find ourselves on life's road potholed with doubt, discouragement, and disappointment. Just as Jesus came to them, He will come to us in resurrection power!
Passage: Romans 1:16-32
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Living with Confidence in a Chaotic World
Category: America , Gospel, Revival , Salvation, Sin, Romans
Summary:
In Romans 1 Paul explains what happens when a nation abandons God. The result is that God abandons that nation. There are 5 steps in the downfall of a godless society. In this message we will explore that descent into chaos, then the preacher will offer hope and help on how we are to live confidently even though "the ship is going down?"
Passage: John 5:1-16
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: The Gospel of John
Category: Miracles, Faith, John, Christ , Gospel
Summary:
The man at the Pool of Bethesda had been stuck there for 38 years. Then one day Jesus came by and asked him, "Do you want to be healed?" In one day everything changed. Perhaps, the hardest thing for some people to do is change. In this message we are going to see how Jesus changes everything!
Passage: Revelation 13:11-18
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Living with Confidence in a Chaotic World
Category: Prophecy , End-Times, Revelation, Money
Summary:
The Bible predicts that money will have a huge impact on shaping the lives of people during the end times. Considering our financial turmoil, in this message we will underscore a few economic trends of the end times that the Bible warns us to look for.
Passage: John 4:46-54
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: The Gospel of John
Category: Miracles, Faith, John, Growth
Summary:
In many ways the nobleman’s journey is a lot like ours because the longest walk requires that we put one foot in front of the other and plod by faith and not by sight. In the message today, we are going to journey with this nobleman and watch how Jesus’ second sign miracle developed this man’s faith.
Passage: Psalms 2:1-12
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Living with Confidence in a Chaotic World
Category: Prophecy , End-Times, Psalms, Christ , Government, Return of Christ
Summary:
We live in a world of headline hysteria. Wars. Pandemics. Disasters. Crisis. It seems that each new story is more distressing than the previous one. But the Bible has equipped us for such times. We can live confidently in the chaos.
Passage: John 4:1-30
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: The Gospel of John
Category: Evangelism , John, Christ , Gospel, Detours
Summary:
The Samaritan Woman who met Jesus at the well wasn't looking for God when He found her. What follows from their encounter is a vivid example of how Christ creatively, lovingly, and patiently seeks out sinners.
Passage: John 3:16
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: The Gospel of John
Category: Cross, John, Christ
Summary:
There’s no doubt, John 3:16 has become the most well-known and oft-quoted Bible verse. Not only does it contain the Gospel message is a nutshell, but it may be the most shocking statement about God's character. In today's message we will try to understand God's incredible love and what it means for us.
Passage: John 3:1-15
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: The Gospel of John
Category: John, Christ , Gospel
Summary:
As we eavesdrop on the dialogue between Jesus and Nicodemus, we find out that even though Nick had an impressive resume by human standards, he lacked the most important criterion in the eyes of God—namely, the new birth. In this message, Jesus will teach us about the "traits of the twice born."
Passage: John 2:12-22
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: The Gospel of John
Category: Resurrection of Christ , John, Christ , Forgiveness, Sanctification , Sin
Summary:
When Jesus strode into the Temple, He was angered by the three-ring circus of exploitation, irreverence and abuse in His Father's House. He brandished a whip and put the hucksters out of business! Jesus' cleansing of the Temple points to our need for a spiritual housecleaning.
Passage: John 2:1-11
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: The Gospel of John
Category: Miracles, Obedience, John, Christ
Summary:
Are you feeling depleted today? Has your joy, strength and resources run out? In Jesus' first miracle, He proved that He can meet us in life's low points and disappointments. This passage shows us how to respond when we are running on empty in our marriage, ministry, finances or faith.
Passage: John 1:43-51
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: The Gospel of John
Category: Evangelism , Calling, John, Christ , Discipleship
Summary:
In John 1 we see Philip introduce Nathaniel to Jesus, even though he was initially skeptical. Despite his doubt, Nathaniel came to faith in Christ. In today’s message, we will trace the numerous links in the chain of God’s providence that mysteriously connect us to the lives of others and ultimately bring us to faith in Jesus.
Passage: John 1:35-42
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: The Gospel of John
Category: Evangelism , John, Andrew, Christ , Discipleship
Summary:
Discipleship is one of those common words used in church, but often it is not clearly defined. In John 1 we see Jesus calling His first disciples. This passage teaches us several traits about what it means to be a disciple. We must ask ourselves are we just a fan of Jesus or are we a true follower of Jesus?
Passage: John 1:19-34
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: The Gospel of John
Category: John, Christ , Gospel, Baptism
Summary:
In John 1 we meet a peculiar character and his thundering introduction of Jesus. John the Baptist teaches us a lot not only about baptism, but also about being a bold witness for Christ. In this message we are going to examine John’s brief ministry and how he challenges us.
Passage: John 1:1-14
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: The Gospel of John
Category: Eternity, John, Christ
Summary:
John's Gospel opens with a profound prologue. In this amazing passage we are taken into eternity past where we see The Word - before time, space and matter. Here the Eternal Christ is revealed in all His glory.
Passage: Matthew 1:18-25
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Christmas 2021
Category: Christmas , Christ , Matthew
Summary:
As you read the Christmas story, hope percolates upward, piercing the darkness, danger and death, finally culminating in the birth of the Christ child. Because of Christmas, hope isn’t just an abstract principle, hope is a person! In this message we will discover how the hope of Christmas affects our lives every day of the year.
Passage: Luke 1:26-35
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Christmas 2021
Category: Christmas , Christ , Luke
Passage: John 1:1-14
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Christmas 2021
Category: Christmas , John, Christ , Incarnation
Summary:
With simple language easily understood by a child, John conveys a mystery beyond the comprehension of the most erudite minds—the eternal God became a man in Christ Jesus. This is the essence of the Christmas message and the answer to the hymn-writer’s query; “What Child Is This?” Skimming the lofty heights of this prologue, we find 3 timeless truths about Christ’s identity.
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: End-Times Super Trends
Category: Prophecy , End-Times, Return of Christ
Summary:
It’s been 2,000 years since Christ left this earth and every generation since then has considered theirs to be one who would see His return. And yet here we are still waiting, watching and wondering. This raises an interesting question, "Why hasn't Jesus returned yet?" In this message we will explore a few reasons why the Lord seems to have delayed His coming and what that means for our lives as we await His coming.
Passage: Revelation 13:1-18
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: End-Times Super Trends
Category: Prophecy , End-Times, Revelation, Return of Christ
Summary:
In the 20th century, secular man's goal for utopia was called "the New World Order." Today, it's called "The Great Reset" and it represents the push toward globalism and a one-world economy, government and religious system. In this message we are going to examine Revelation 13 and see how the goals of globalism are setting the stage for the Antichrist and the end-times.
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: End-Times Super Trends
Category: Prophecy , End-Times, Rapture, Luke, Return of Christ
Summary:
The Sodom of old may be a charcoal spot in a desert, but in a very real sense we are seeing the spirit of Sodom alive and well today. In this message we are going to explore exactly what Jesus meant by the days of Lot as an end-times sign and what practical lessons we ought to learn as we find our nation and the world slouching towards Sodom.
Passage: 1 John 2:18-19
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: End-Times Super Trends
Category: Prophecy , End-Times, Apostasy
Summary:
Throughout church history, many have taken up the banner of Jesus Christ with great zeal only to lay it down again in disillusionment. The Bible calls this "falling away" or "apostasy" and it is one of the end-times signs we can see emerging right now. In this message, we are going to understand what this means for us and, more importantly how we can protect ourselves from becoming a spiritual drop out.
Passage: Daniel 3:1-30
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: End-Times Super Trends
Category: Prophecy , End-Times, Faith, Trials , Daniel
Summary:
Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego were given an ultimatum – bow or burn. Today, the church is facing increased opposition and we can clearly see the day coming when we will have to make similar decision. These courageous youths will teach us that if are going to live for God in a crooked and perverse world, there will be moments where we will have to choose between compromise and convictions.
Passage: Matthew 24:1-8
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: End-Times Super Trends
Category: Prophecy , End-Times, Matthew, Return of Christ
Summary:
In a "perfect storm" all the necessary weather conditions come together at the precise moment. In a similar way, the prophetic signs are coming together indicating that the end times and return of Christ is near. I call this "the convergence factor." In this message, we will see learn the prophetic and practical results of what this means.
Passage: Daniel 7:7-25
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: End-Times Super Trends
Category: America , Prophecy , Christ , Politics
Summary:
A recent poll showed that 40% of Americans have a favorable view of socialism. Those who know history will point out that socialism may sound good, but it quickly becomes totalitarian where the %1 in the ruling class steal the wealth of a nation and the other 99% are left to suffer in poverty. So what does the Bible have to say about this? Well, you won’t find the word "socialism" in the Bible, just as you won’t find a prophecy about America. However, the growing acceptance of global socialism is an end-times sign because this system is tailor made for the Antichrist.
Passage: Judges 16:1-31
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Judges: Defeat and Deliverance
Category: Faith, Grace, Judges, Sin, Samson
Summary:
Samson is the epitome of wasted potential. So many years of his life were lost to sin, it pains one to think of what might have been had he fully given himself to the Lord. Judges 16 traces the sad descent of this hero. In a negative way, Samson shows us the high-cost of low living, but in a positive way he shows us “the faith of a failure.” Graciously and providentially, God used the failure of Samson to bring a final victory.
Passage: Judges 15:1-20
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Judges: Defeat and Deliverance
Category: Faith, Gospel, Judges, Samson
Summary:
Samson was a larger-than-life character whose story is full of heroic feats of strength. However, there was a dark side to this judge. Underneath the flowing locks of hair and muscles was a weak, sinful man. Yet, despite these flaws God used him to wage war against Israel's enemies. Today we continue the Samson saga and you'll see how he points to Jesus in some surprising ways.
Passage: Judges 14:1-20
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Judges: Defeat and Deliverance
Category: Grace, Judges, Sin, Samson
Summary:
Samson was a walking contradiction. When he submitted to the Spirit, he did great things for God. But when he was controlled by the flesh, he got into a sinful mess. That describes the "Samson Syndrome" when godly and gifted people don't reach their full potential because of bad choices and sinful habits. In this message, we will diagnose 4 symptoms of the Samson Syndrome.
Passage: Judges 13:1-25
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Judges: Defeat and Deliverance
Category: Family, Judges, Samson
Summary:
There is more space devoted to Samson than any other judge. His victories prompted the writer in Hebrews 11 to record his name in the Hall of Faith (Heb. 11:32). He’s probably the most popular of the Judges, yet his behavior made him the worst of all. Sam’s story begins in Judges 13, where we learn about his miraculous birth. I can’t think of one Bible hero with a more promising start than Samson. He had a divine anointing, godly parents and a special destiny as Israel’s deliverer.
Passage: Judges 8:1-35
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Judges: Defeat and Deliverance
Category: Judges, Gideon
Summary:
We’ve all heard the saying, “They won the battle, but lost the war.” What this proverb refers to is a hollow victory that has no real lasting value OR a victory that comes at such a high cost that it ends up leading to an ultimate defeat in the end. Gideon is a tragic example of this because even though he won a stunning underdog victory against the Midianites, he lost the war with sin. In this message we will see 3 temptations that caused him to end his career in shame.
Passage: Judges 7:1-25
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Judges: Defeat and Deliverance
Category: Faith, Obedience, Judges, Gideon
Summary:
The Bible practically invented the concept of the underdog. We immediately think of David, the shepherd boy, standing toe-to-toe against the Philistine giant Goliath, or Elijah challenging the 450 prophets of Baal on Mt. Carmel, or Joshua’s troops assaulting the mighty citadel of Jericho. However, Gideon vs. Midian is one of the greatest underdog stories that tends to be forgotten. In this exciting chapter we are going to learn three important principles on how God wins. As you might imagine, God’s ways of achieving victory are not from the ordinary playbook.
Passage: Judges 6:36-40
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Judges: Defeat and Deliverance
Category: Surrender, Judges, Gideon, Will of God
Summary:
We have all asked the question at one time or another: “How can I know the will of God?” If there is one Bible character that epitomized this struggle it was Gideon, who invented a method of discerning God’s will that countless believers have tried—putting out a fleece. We are going to study this famous scene from Gideon’s life and I’m going to make some practical applications for our lives on how we can learn to discern the will of God.
Passage: Judges 6:19-35
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Judges: Defeat and Deliverance
Category: Calling, Christ , Judges, Gideon
Summary:
In Judges 6 we see the Lord drawing a line in the sand and challenging Gideon to step across. Once he did there was no turning back. Gideon's transformation flowed from his personal worship. In this episode we will discover three attributes that changed him from a coward to a conqueror. Likewise, if we want to be bold for God then we should commit to these actions.
Passage: Judges 6:1-24
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Judges: Defeat and Deliverance
Category: Calling, Faith, Obedience, Surrender, Judges, Gideon
Summary:
There is more space devoted to Gideon in the book of Judges than any other leader. But, God had to turn him from a coward into a conqueror. Just like you and me, GIdeon had to find his courage in God's calling. The Lord is still calling leaders today to be bold, brave and believe in Him for the victory. Are you listening?
Passage: Judges 4:1-5:31
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Judges: Defeat and Deliverance
Category: America , Miracles, Christ , Gospel, Salvation, Judges
Summary:
In Judges 4-5 we meet one of Israel's most unique leaders. She was Deborah - "God's Wonder Woman." Deborah was not only a prophetess, but she inspired a reluctant warrior named Barak to fight for Israel. Once again, we will see how God uses unlikely people and unusual methods to bring about an unexpected deliverance.
Passage: Judges 3:7-31
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Judges: Defeat and Deliverance
Category: Suffering, Faith, Christ , Salvation, Judges
Summary:
The book of Judges is filled with unlikely heroes, men and women who were out of step with the times, but in step with God. These leaders had faith that gave them the courage to dare to be different. In Judges chapter 3, we are going to meet 3 unlikely heroes who were called by God to deliver Israel from her oppressors - Othniel, Ehud and Shamgar.
Passage: Judges 1:1-3:6
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Judges: Defeat and Deliverance
Category: America , Christ , Gospel, Revival , Judges, Sin
Summary:
In this introductory message, we will understand the four factors that led to Israel's national decline and the reason why God responded by raising up the judges. By examining Israel's downfall we will see many clear parallels to the US and how we are tracking along the same downhill slide.
Passage: Mark 9:14-29
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Father's Day 2021
Category: Father's Day , Faith, Christ , Family
Summary:
In Mark 9 we travel with Jesus from the mountain to the valley, where He encounters a father and a demon-possessed boy. This healing miracle not only shows us the Enemy’s spiritual battle against the family, but also how Jesus is our only hope. Everything changed when this father said, “Lord, I believe, help my unbelief!”
Passage: Colossians 3:22-4:1
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Colossians - Complete in Christ
Category: Christ , Colossians, Work
Summary:
The theme of Colossians is that Christ rules over all -- the cosmos, the Church, the Christian, the family and even your work. In this message Paul gives practical instruction about how our work can bring glory and honor to Jesus.
Passage: Colossians 3:18-21
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Colossians - Complete in Christ
Category: Marriage, Christ , Colossians, Family
Summary:
There’s no doubt that our nation is in trouble. One reason is because the family is under attack. The family is the basic building block of society. That means the surest way to save our country is to save the family. In today’s message we will learn what it means when Christ is the focus of our marriage and raising kids.
Passage: Colossians
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Colossians - Complete in Christ
Category: Christ , Colossians, Sanctification
Summary:
Sanctification is the lifelong process of growing more like Jesus in our thoughts, words and deeds. Paul likened it to a spiritual wardrobe change. Daily we must take off the old rags of the sin nature and put on the new robes of Christ. The virtues of the Christian wardrobe will never go out of style and are appropriate for every event.
Passage: 1 Kings 17:8-16
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Mother's Day 2021
Category: Mother's Day, Miracles, 1 Kings, Elijah
Summary:
The widow of Zarephath was down to her last meal when Elijah the prophet showed up at her doorstep. I wonder how many mothers today are like her - Depleted, frustrated, and in a desperate situation? If so, there’s hope; because God can bring blessings from the bottom of the barrel.
Passage: Colossians 3:5-11
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Colossians - Complete in Christ
Category: Christ , Colossians, Salvation, Sanctification
Summary:
In Colossians 3:5-11, Paul explains how salvation in the believer's life brings a change akin to trading the rags of sin for the robes of Christ's righteousness. Just like taking off old, dirty garments we must discard sinful thought patterns and habits. In their place we must put on the character of Jesus and life a new life for Him.
Passage: Colossians 3:1-4
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Colossians - Complete in Christ
Category: Eternity, Heaven, Christ , Colossians
Summary:
As Paul opens Colossians chapter three, he has heaven on his mind. Every Christ-follower ought to have an eternal perspective that shapes their whole life, because heaven is our real home. In this message we will learn what it means to be heavenly minded in four ways.
Passage: Hebrews 2:14-18
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Easter 2021
Category: Easter , Resurrection of Christ , Hebrews, Christ , Gospel
Summary:
A special Easter message about Jesus' victory over the grave and what that means for you and me.
Passage: Colossians 2:11-15
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Colossians - Complete in Christ
Category: Cross, Christ , Gospel, Colossians
Summary:
Glory in it or spit at it—one thing is for certain the cross cannot be ignored. In Colossians 2 Paul highlights the centrality of the cross and all that Christ accomplished there. Lest we think the cross is just a religious symbol or an ornate piece of jewelry, Paul reminds us of three great victories Christ won when He died for you and me.
Passage: Colossians 2:8-10
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Colossians - Complete in Christ
Category: Christ , Gospel, Colossians, False Teaching
Summary:
Our world is full of fakes, phonies and frauds. There’s a counterfeit for everything from knock-off currency to imitation milk. The spiritual realm is also littered with false prophets and man-made philosophies that contradict the Bible. In Colossians 2, Paul warned us to be discerning and not be hoodwinked by the high-minded doctrines of spiritual hucksters.
Passage: Colossians 2:1-7
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Colossians - Complete in Christ
Category: Christ , Gospel, Colossians, Growth
Summary:
From our first baby steps of faith to our final breaths of life, our spiritual journey should be marked by growth. This sanctification process is the way we go from the spiritual nursery to maturity. Though we may never fully “arrive” as a Christian, we should always strive to be growing in Christ. As Paul opens Colossians 2, he writes about how we can chart our spiritual growth in three ways.
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: LBGT and the Gospel
Category: Apologetics, Prophecy , Gospel, LGBT
Summary:
A challenging message addressing the massive social change brought about by the LBGT agenda and its attack on the Gospel.
Passage: Colossians 1:24-29
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Colossians - Complete in Christ
Category: Ministry, Calling, Church , Christ , Colossians
Summary:
It doesn’t matter if you are preacher, janitor, senior saint or baby Christian, God has ministry for you in the church. At the end of Colossians chapter one, Paul explains how we can enjoy maximum ministry for the Lord. He challenges us in three areas to serve, all because we have – Christ in us, the hope of glory!
Passage: Colossians 1:20-23
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Colossians - Complete in Christ
Category: Cross, Christ , Gospel, Reconciliation , Colossians
Summary:
The New Testament writers used several key words to describe salvation – one of which is the term “reconciliation.” This is the way that God makes friends out of enemies through the cross of Christ. In this message we are going to learn all about what reconciliation means for us both practically and cosmically.
Passage: Colossians 1:15-19
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Colossians - Complete in Christ
Category: Apologetics, Church , Christ , Colossians
Summary:
One major problem in the Colossian church was bad theology from false teachers. Some argued that Jesus wasn’t fully God, while others taught He was God’s first created being. Paul wrote to set the record straight. In Col. 1:15-19 Paul teaches about the supremacy of Christ in three important ways.
Passage: Colossians 1:12-14
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Colossians - Complete in Christ
Category: Cross, Thanksgiving , Christ , Gospel, Grace, Forgiveness, Colossians
Summary:
Of all people, Christians ought to be the most thankful because they know what they have been saved from! Our thanksgiving should translate into thanks-living. In Col. 1:12-14 Paul wraps up his prayer for the church by mentioning three blessings of salvation that every Christian can be grateful for.
Passage: Colossians 1:9-11
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Colossians - Complete in Christ
Category: Prayer , Colossians
Summary:
Often we may feel burdened to pray for someone, but we may not know how to pray for them. That’s when we resort to generic prayers. In Colossians 1:9-11 Paul prayed specifically in four areas for the believers at Colossae. This prayer is a great model for us to follow as we commit to praying for each other.
Passage: Colossians 1:1-8
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Colossians - Complete in Christ
Category: Church , Christ , Colossians
Summary:
In this introductory message we will learn the theme, purpose and background of the letter to the Colossian church. Specifically, we will study three essentials of what a Christ-centered church is all about.
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Christmas 2020
Category: Christmas , Matthew, Luke, Fear
Summary:
God encourages His people to “fear not” 365 times in the Bible, one for each day of the year. If you read though the nativity story in Matthew and Luke, we find that the phrase “fear not” is repeated four times. In today’s message we will look at these statements and discover how Christmas helps us put our faith over our fear.
Passage: Luke 1:26-38
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Christmas 2020
Category: Christmas , Matthew, Luke
Summary:
One of the central pillars of the Christmas story and Christianity is the virgin birth. If you remove the virgin birth of Jesus, then Christianity collapses like a house of cards. Not only does the virgin birth set Jesus apart from other religious leaders and divide our time-line between BC and AD, but it is the pivotal event which forever changed Mary’s life and gave us Christmas. I hope to convince you today that the virgin birth is not incidental to our faith, but fundamental to our faith. I want to explore three vital reasons why Jesus was virgin born.
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Christmas 2020
Category: Christmas , Prophecy , Matthew, Luke
Summary:
Tinsel, toys, tunes and trees—when we see these signs, we know that Christmas is near. Leading up to Christ’s advent there was a flurry of angelic activity, amazing miracles and fulfilled prophecies. These signs foretold that God was up to something big and the world was about to change. In this message we will highlight, “the Signs of Christmas” that converged long ago and hopefully make an interesting connection to the signs that we see emerging today which herald Jesus’ return.
Passage: Numbers 11:1-34
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Thanksgiving 2020
Category: Thanksgiving , Numbers
Summary:
It seems odd to discuss the sin of complaining, when in just a few days we will gather with family and friends around the dinner table to eat, count our blessings and give thanks. But in this country we are known more for our grumbling than our gratitude. In Numbers 11 we read a convicting story about how seriously God hates a grumbling, unthankful spirit. Moses heard a campaign of complaining as he led the Israelites towards the Promised Land. The lessons in this passage will teach us a lot about being thankful and biting our tongue next time we want to complain.
Passage: Luke 17:24-30
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Don't Be Left Behind
Category: Prophecy , End-Times, Rapture, Luke
Summary:
The Bible teaches that there is a blessed bunch of believers who will not taste death. A day is coming when the church will defy gravity and meet Christ in the air. That spectacular moment, known as “the Rapture,” could be sooner than we realize! In Luke 17, the Lord Jesus preaches to the disciples about His coming. He notes three important attributes of the Rapture that should challenge us and give us great hope.
Passage: Exodus 18:13-23
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: America at a Crossroads
Category: America , Politics , Government
Summary:
Every 4 years, Americans must make a critical decision about who they will select for political leaders. Many Christians feel like it is a choice between the "lesser of two evils." Wouldn't it be helpful if there was a passage in the Bible that would tell us what to look for in a candidate? Well there is--Exodus 18, where Moses is advised by his father-in-law about what qualifications should be considered for selecting judges. This passage will help us think biblically about this contentious election season and ones in the future when cast our ballots.
Passage: 1 Timothy 2:1-3
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: America at a Crossroads
Category: America , Politics , Government
Summary:
The Bible calls Christ-followers “pilgrims” (1 Pet. 2:11; Heb. 11:13). A vagabond has no home. An ambassador is away from home. But a pilgrim is headed home! We are citizens of America by birth, but citizens of heaven by second birth. That means we must live as dual citizens. In this message, we are going to talk about how the governments of men and God coexist and even clash at times. Let’s learn about “the politics of pilgrims” and how Christian citizens are to live until Christ returns.
Passage: Psalms 80:1-19
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: America at a Crossroads
Category: America , Faith, Psalms, Revival
Summary:
Our nation is at a crossroads. Again, we find ourselves with the decision that will determine our nation’s fate for the next four years. America’s perilous situation today is strikingly similar to ancient Israel at the time Psalm 80 was written. In Psalm 80 we have one of Israel’s patriots imploring God to rescue His people from the brink of national disaster.
Passage: Genesis 35:1-29
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Jacob: Schemer and Dreamer
Category: Jacob, Genesis , Revival
Summary:
Jacob’s journey with the Lord was filled with sin, stumbling and setbacks. In Genesis 35 we have another turning point in the life of this patriarch. Finally, after much delay and disobedience, Jacob goes back to Bethel, the place where Jacob’s walk with God began. For Jacob, going back to Bethel was like going home. In Jacob’s sunset years we are going to see four new things enter his life. For us this passage is going to help us understand how we can get out of a spiritual slump by going back to our spiritual roots
Passage: Genesis 33:1-12
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Jacob: Schemer and Dreamer
Category: Cross, Jacob, Genesis , Forgiveness, Reconciliation
Summary:
It has been over twenty years since Jacob deceived his brother Esau. Over those years, the Lord had been working on Jacob bringing him to a point of humility and repentance over his scheming ways. In Genesis 33 we finally come to the moment when these estranged brothers meet again and restore their broken relationship. As we study this scene, we will learn important steps in the process of healing hurts from the past.
Passage: Genesis 32:1-32
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Jacob: Schemer and Dreamer
Category: Jacob, Genesis , Surrender
Summary:
There are two great spiritual landmarks in Jacob’s life. The first was Bethel where God came to him in a dream and reveled the ladder coming down from heaven. The second was on the banks of the Jabbok river when he wrestled with God. At Bethel Jacob first believed and at the Jabbok River he was finally broken. Jacob will emerge from this “dark night of the soul” a changed man both physically and spiritually. Jacob’s limp teaches us several important lessons about surrender in the Christian life.
Passage: Genesis 29:31-30:24
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Jacob: Schemer and Dreamer
Category: Jacob, Genesis
Summary:
Jacob was supposed to be the man of the house, but his attention and affection quickly became the object of a tug-of-war between two battling brides, Rachel and Leah (also sisters mind you). Genesis 29-30 has polygamy, discord, jealousy, competition, infertility and more drama than a Hallmark movie. At the heart of this dysfunctional family are two women struggling for identity. In the midst of this mess, God is working to bring about His sovereign plan through the failures and sins of broken people.
Passage: Genesis 29:1-30
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Jacob: Schemer and Dreamer
Category: Jacob, Genesis
Summary:
In Genesis 29 we have the record of how Jacob met and married his wives. The man who weaseled the birthright away from his brother and conned his father needed some serious schooling in the spiritual disciplines. This chapter is an OT illustration of a NT truth, “Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap” (Gal. 6:7). Jacob doesn’t know it, but class in is session. As he heads for Haran, he’s about to be enrolled in a 20-year program in the school of sowing and reaping.
Passage: Genesis 28:10-22
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Jacob: Schemer and Dreamer
Category: Jacob, Genesis
Summary:
Genesis 28 is probably the most famous scene from Jacob’s life. We know that Jacob was a schemer, but he was also a dreamer and this scene explains why; for here, God reaches down to our prodigal patriarch and gives him an incredible dream of a ladder reaching up to heaven. This is Jacob’s moment of salvation as He experiences the God of his father and grandfather in an unforgettable way. In this message we are going to study Jacob’s ladder on two levels—as his conversion experience and as a model for how God pursues sinners.
Passage: Genesis 27:1-44
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Jacob: Schemer and Dreamer
Category: Jacob, Genesis
Summary:
If you are looking for a model family, you won’t find one in the Bible. Isaac and Rebekah’s family was a hot mess. Their marriage got off to a promising start, but by the time we open Gen. 27, they have drifted apart. Years of parental favoritism has divided this family. Isaac prefers his athletic, brawny, son of the wild—Esau. While, Rebekah shelters and nurtures her “mama’s boy”—Jacob. In this message, we are going to see a portrait of a dysfunctional family that self-destructs. Here is a case study in what not to do and how to spare ourselves from needless heartache and pain.
Passage: Genesis 25:19-34
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Jacob: Schemer and Dreamer
Category: Jacob, Genesis
Summary:
The biography of Jacob begins in Gen. 25 and like most of us he’s born in a dysfunctional family. In this iconic passage we learn a lot about Jacob's origin and character flaws. Jacob was a deceiver and trickster. Esau made a foolish bargain choosing the temporal over the physical. These two brothers can teach us much about ourselves and the Gospel.
Passage: Acts 28:16-31
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: The Acts Adventure
Category: Acts, Evangelism , Church , Gospel
Summary:
In Acts 28 Paul finally completes his journey to Rome. Paul made the best of his situation and continued to preach the Gospel even while under house arrest. In a way this chapter is both an end and a beginning. It brings to a close the history of the early church, but of course the work of the church went on after Paul. Much of what we are doing now in continuing the work of the church piggybacks off what Paul started long ago. In this passage we see three lessons about how Paul stayed effective in Rome and how we can do the same today.
Passage: Acts 28:1-10
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: The Acts Adventure
Category: Acts, Evangelism , Suffering, Gospel, Storms, Detours
Summary:
The will of God is not always a straight line from point A to point B. That was certainly true of the Apostle Paul’s life. For several chapters now, Paul has been on his way to Rome, but before Paul arrived there God sent his apostle on a 3-month detour. In Acts 28 we find Paul and company shipwrecked on the island of Malta. This hold-over in Paul’s journey to Rome teaches us three practical lessons about divine detours.
Passage: Mark 2:1-12
Series: Robert Gibson
Category: Evangelism , Christ , Gospel, Grace, Robert Gibson
Summary:
Robert Gibson spent over 30 years in one of America's most dangerous prisons--Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary in Tennessee. He was given 99 years for murder and other crimes. While in jail, Robert spent 7 years in solitary confinement and became a drug addict. His testimony begins that way, but ends with "BUT GOD!" Listen to this amazing story of how God transformed this man and set him free from sin and shackles.
Passage: Acts 27:1-44
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: The Acts Adventure
Category: Acts, Suffering, Storms
Summary:
Paul was on his way to Rome. But before he and Dr. Luke arrived in Italy, the ship ran into a terrible storm that waylaid the sailors for 14 days. What follows in Acts 27 is one of the most harrowing stories in the Bible as Paul’s courageous faith kept him buoyant despite being storm-tossed and shipwrecked. How will we weather the winds and the waves? This passage teaches us 4 crucial lessons.
Passage: Acts 26:1-32
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: The Acts Adventure
Category: Acts, Evangelism , Faith, Christ , Gospel
Summary:
Why is it so hard for some to believe? I have found that there are two kinds of skeptics: those who say, “I can’t believe” and others who say, “I won’t believe.” Today we are going to meet two men who were very much in the second camp. In Acts 26 we have the record of Paul’s last court hearing before he is shipped off to Rome. Paul takes the opportunity to present a masterful defense of his Christian faith to Festus and Agrippa. Paul’s testimony is a stirring challenge to us of what to do, and what to expect when our faith is called to the witness stand.
Passage: Acts 24:24-27
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: The Acts Adventure
Category: Acts, Procrastination
Summary:
In Acts 24 we encounter a man who allowed a golden opportunity to pass him by. His name was Antonias Felix, a Roman governor, who had the world’s most eloquent and learned preacher in his court, the Apostle Paul. The failure of Felix was procrastination. He put off making the most important decision anyone could ever make—what to do with Jesus.
Passage: Acts 23:1-35
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: The Acts Adventure
Category: Acts
Summary:
Have you ever blown a perfect witnessing opportunity? Believe it or not, the great Apostle Paul did once. In Acts 23 we see Paul's mistake and how the Lord gently picked him up and encouraged him. In this message we will learn three lessons about God's faithfulness when we have failed.
Passage: Acts 21:15-22:26
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: The Acts Adventure
Category: Acts, Suffering, Ministry, Obedience
Summary:
In Acts 21, everything went bad for Paul as he went into Jerusalem. But, Paul was able to turn a bad situation around and use it to declare the Gospel. In this message we learn three lessons about what to expect when ministry goes "sideways".
Passage: 1 Samuel 1:1-28
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Mother's Day 2020
Category: Mother's Day, 1 Samuel, Hannah
Summary:
Hannah's early life was defined by barrenness, bitterness and brokenness. But all this was leading her to a deeper understanding of God. In this message we learn about God raised up Hannah to change the destiny of a nation.
Passage: 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Coronavirus: Responding with Faith over Fear
Category: Prophecy , End-Times, Coronavirus
Summary:
Paul challenged the Thessalonian believers to live in two spheres--they were to live in the present, but look ahead expectantly for the return of Christ. That same mentality applies to us today. In this message, we will examine 1 Thess. 5:1-11 and what we can learn about "the Day of the Lord."
Passage: Matthew 16:13-18
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Coronavirus: Responding with Faith over Fear
Category: Church , Christ , Matthew
Summary:
During the COVID-19 crisis, there have been many make foreboding predictions about the future of the church. In Matt. 16, Jesus explained the origin, purpose and destiny of the church and we can take comfort that the church will endure.
Passage: Hebrews 12:1-2
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Coronavirus: Responding with Faith over Fear
Category: Trials , Hebrews, Endurance
Summary:
In order to run the race of life we need endurance to go the distance. In this message we learn how to train ourselves spiritually so we can go all the way for the Lord.
Passage: Psalms 3:1-8
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Coronavirus: Responding with Faith over Fear
Category: Coronavirus, Trials , David, Psalms
Summary:
As David retreated from Jerusalem under the threat of Absalom's pursuit, he penned Psalm 3. In this song David rehearsed his problems and his faith in God.
Passage: Habakkuk 1:1-3:18
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Coronavirus: Responding with Faith over Fear
Category: Habakkuk, Coronavirus
Summary:
Habakkuk cried out to God for answers. Why was He not doing anything to help His people? God answered, but Habakkuk couldn't believe what God was up to. In this message, we will discover what to do when life doesn't make sense and we aren't sure what to do.
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Coronavirus: Responding with Faith over Fear
Category: Coronavirus
Summary:
One of the recent buzzwords that has become part of our vocabulary is “social distancing,” which refers to the restricting of people’s daily routines to help stop the spread of contagious disease. There is much we can learn in our spiritual lives as we are all forced into isolation. In this message we will highlight a few cases of social distancing and what God did through those situations.
Passage: Numbers 21:4-9
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Coronavirus: Responding with Faith over Fear
Category: Miracles, Numbers, Coronavirus
Summary:
The ancient Israelites were no strangers to plagues. In Numbers 21, we find the stiff-necked nation facing a crisis in the wilderness as they fell victim to a heaven-sent scourge of serpents. This episode pictures a national crisis much like the one we are currently facing, complete with fear, panic, complaining, sickness and death paralyzing God’s people. In this message we will learn 4 critical lessons about how a crisis reveals what we really believe.
Passage: John 20:11-18
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Easter 2020
Category: Easter , Resurrection of Christ
Summary:
Mary’s world was shattered on Friday evening as she helped take Jesus’ lifeless form from the cross, wrap Him in linens and place His body in the tomb. Added to her grief was utter shock when she discovered on Sunday morning that Jesus’ tomb was empty when she arrived to finish the job of embalming. But as Mary lingered around the tomb, her world was turned right-side up again as the Risen Jesus reveled His glory.
Passage: Luke 23:26
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Easter 2020
Category: Easter , Cross
Summary:
There was one man present at Calvary for whom the cross changed everything—his name was Simon of Cyrene. Admittedly, we don’t know much about him, but what we do know is significant. For a brief moment, he steps on the stage of the God’s salvation drama, plays his part. Simon’s claim to fame was that he helped a battered, bloodied and burdened Jesus carry his cross the rest of the way to Golgotha.
Passage: Acts 18:18-19:10
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: The Acts Adventure
Category: Acts, Holy Spirit
Summary:
The book of Acts is filled with several examples of how the advent of the Spirit turned the early church from cowardly wimps into courageous witnesses, from meek lambs into mighty lions. In Acts 18-19 we see another example of how the Holy Spirit transitioned the world into the church age. In this message, we will learn about three critical ministries of the Holy Spirit in our lives.
Passage: Acts 18:1-17
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: The Acts Adventure
Category: Acts, Evangelism
Summary:
When Paul arrived in Corinth as Acts 18 relates, he had suffered a string of defeats and persecution. Corinth was not the place for a lonely, fatigued and discouraged church planter to seek refuge. Historians tell us that Corinth was the sin-city of the ancient world. Today, conditions in this country aren’t that much different. In this message we will see how God encouraged Paul to keep ministering to a lost world despite the adversity he faced.
Passage: 2 Kings 13:14-21
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Elisha: Miracle Man
Category: Elisha, Miracles, 2 Kings
Summary:
Everyone has influence, no matter how big or small we perceive ourselves. We all influence someone, and God expects us to be good stewards of that influence for the sake of the Gospel. In 2 Kings 13 we have the record of Elisha’s final moments and his last swan song sermon. He was faithful to God to the very end. In Elisha’s death we learn three lessons about what it means to live a life of influence for the Lord.
Passage: 2 Kings 7:1-17
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Elisha: Miracle Man
Category: Elisah, Miracles, 2 Kings
Summary:
The Syrian army had broken the peace treaty with Israel and laid siege to the capital city of Samaria. Under the oppression of the Syrians, famine and starvation besieged God’s people. When Israel’s situation couldn’t get much darker, a ray of hope dawned from the word of the prophet Elisha. But, the hero of this story isn’t the man of God, it was four lepers whom God used to help deliver a city from starvation. In this message, we are going to learn three lessons from these lepers. If we as a church are going to survive and go forward by faith, then there are some things we cannot afford to do.
Passage: 2 Kings 6:8-23
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Elisha: Miracle Man
Category: Elisah, Miracles, 2 Kings
Summary:
Despite being vastly outnumbered, Elisha won a huge military victory for his people against the Assyrians. As the enemies of Israel surrounded the man of God, the heavenly hosts surrounded Israel’s enemies. By faith he was able to see the unseen. Elisha takes three actions in this passage that teach us how we can achieve victory in our spiritual battles.
Passage: 2 Kings 6:1-7
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Elisha: Miracle Man
Category: Elisah, Miracles, 2 Kings
Summary:
If we are all honest, there are times when our passion for God wanes. In those down-times, we aren’t excited about prayer, worship or sharing the Gospel as we once were. In 2 Kings 6, we have recorded one of the most unique miracles wrought by the hands of Elisha. It’s a miracle involving a floating axe head and I think it teaches us four steps of how to recover our spiritual edge.
Passage: 2 Kings 5:1-16
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Elisha: Miracle Man
Category: Elisah, Miracles, 2 Kings
Summary:
Naaman is the epitome of a self-made military man. But under the brass and badges was a dead man walking. He had been infected with the dreaded disease of leprosy. But that wasn’t even the worst part. Outwardly, leprosy was eating him alive, and inwardly pride was corrupting his soul. Desperate for a cure, he came seeking Elisha. Naaman almost missed a miracle because of his pride. In this message, we will discover how God humbles haughty hearts.
Passage: 2 Kings 4:8-37
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Elisha: Miracle Man
Category: Elisah, Miracles, 2 Kings
Summary:
If there were a Bible character who could identify with the pain of dashed hopes it has to be the Shunammite woman that the prophet Elisha encountered. Her story is found in 2 Kings 4 and its roller coaster ride of emotional and spiritual ups and downs. The Shunammite woman struggled through infertility and the death of a child. Even though she couldn’t see it at the time, she’s a great example of how God can turn brokenness into blessing.
Passage: Galatians 4:4-5
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Christmas 2019
Category: Christmas
Summary:
Timing was everything some 2,000 years ago when God’s Son quietly arrived on planet earth as an infant. But have you ever wondered, “Why did Jesus come to earth when He did? Why did he come then and not now?” Galatians 4:4-5 explains not only why Jesus came, but why He came the way He did and why He came when He did. In this passage, Paul teaches us three important truths about the advent of Christ.
Passage: Matthew 2:1-18
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Christmas 2019
Category: Christmas
Summary:
Most of the characters in the Nativity drama behaved like heroes; except for one—the wicked King Herod. He is the original “Grinch” and the man who tried to stop Christmas. In this message, we’re going to better understand why the Gospel of Matthew spends so much time telling his sordid story. In the process, we will learn some insightful truths about the meaning of Christmas.
Passage: 2 Kings 4:1-7
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Elisha: Miracle Man
Category: Elisah, Miracles, 2 Kings , Faith
Summary:
Elisha had just saved three armies from dying of thirst in a desert, and now he turns to help a woman who had just been widowed by the unexpected death of her husband. God can move mountains, split seas and crumble walls, but He also feeds the little sparrows. This episode in Elisha’s ministry teaches us at least three principles about God’s provision.
Passage: 2 Kings 3:1-27
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Elisha: Miracle Man
Category: Elisha, Miracles, 2 Kings , Faith, Obedience
Summary:
In 2 Kings 3 we have the record of one of Elisha’s most amazing miracles. Oddly enough, this miracle involved the armies of Israel and Judah picking up shovels and digging ditches before they could see God’s deliverance. In this message we are going to learn several lessons about how when we are in a desperate situation, God asks us to obey Him in faith.
Passage: 2 Kings 2:19-22
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Elisha: Miracle Man
Category: Elisah, Miracles, 2 Kings
Summary:
The ancient city of Jericho at the time of Elisha’s ministry had a major water crisis. Their water was brackish, contaminated and undrinkable. In 2 Kings 2 this problem became the setting for Elisha’s first public miracle. In today’s message we are going to examine this fascinating episode and make some spiritual connections to our lives and the Gospel.
Passage: 2 Kings 2:1-15
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Elisha: Miracle Man
Summary:
It’s been said that, “The Christian faith is only one generation from extinction.” That’s because the Christian life is a like a relay race in which one generation must pass the baton of God’s truth to the next generation. In 2 Kings 2 we have one of the critical “handoff” moments in the Scriptures. In this miraculous transition between Elijah and Elisah, let’s discover 3 principles about leaving a spiritual legacy.
Passage: 1 Kings 19:19-21
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Elisha: Miracle Man
Category: Elisah, Calling, Miracles
Summary:
Elijah was and is regarded by many as the greatest prophet of the Old Testament. Yet as mighty as his ministry was, Elijah’s career would eventually come to a close. In 1 Kings 19 the Lord gave Elijah specific instructions for his next assignment—“You shall anoint Elisha the son of Shaphat as prophet in your place.” Elisha was handpicked by Elijah to be his successor to the prophetic ministry. In this message, we are going to study the calling of Elisha and how he responded with radical, immediate and complete obedience to the Lord.
Passage: Revelation 22:6-21
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Revelation: Return of the King
Category: Prophecy , End-Times, Revelation
Summary:
The study of prophecy is not about the accumulation of information. It’s about transformation! If Revelation doesn’t change how you live on a day-to-day basis then we’ve missed the point. Just as the news of an impending storm or the birth of a baby would change your behavior in the present, so too the soon and sudden return of Christ should change how we live in the here and now. In the final prophecy of the Bible, we are given 5 mandates about how we ought to live until Christ comes.
Passage: Revelation 21:9-22:5
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Revelation: Return of the King
Category: Prophecy , End-Times, Revelation, Eternity
Summary:
Think of the world’s most grand cities: Paris, New York, Tokyo, London, Dubai, even Asheville. If you take all the positive things about those places and combine them into a super metropolis, they would still pale in comparison to the city that God is preparing for those that love Him. New Jerusalem is mentioned almost a dozen times in the span of Revelation 21 & 22 and it will be the eventual capital city of heaven.
Passage: Revelation 21:1-8
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Revelation: Return of the King
Category: Prophecy , End-Times, Revelation, Eternity, Heaven
Summary:
The final two chapters in the Bible are dedicated to telling us all that we need to know about the believer’s future heavenly home. In Rev. 21-22 we have the Apostle John’s guided tour of heaven. While we don’t know everything about heaven, what the Bible does reveal is enough to change how we live now.
Passage: Revelation 20:11-15
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Revelation: Return of the King
Category: Prophecy , End-Times, Revelation, Eternity
Detail:
Despite what the world may think or feel about hell, it doesn’t change the fact that the Bible teaches its reality. The last verses of Rev. 20 forms one of the central passages in the Bible concerning the doctrine of hell. It paints a grim courtroom scene where sinners are judged and sentenced to a terrible punishment of a Christ-less eternity. You won’t find a more sobering passage in the Bible.
Passage: Revelation 20:1-10
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Revelation: Return of the King
Category: Prophecy , End-Times, Revelation
Summary:
Even though mankind will never be able to create an idyllic civilization on Earth, Jesus will. In Rev. 20, the Bible describes a thousand-year period in which Jesus will rule the Earth in perfect peace, prosperity and justice. The Millennium is the last phase of history in which the world is finally turned right side up by King Jesus. As we look at our world which is so marred by sin, evil and death the thought of Christ ruling and reigning this planet should fill us with hope!
Passage: Revelation 19:11-21
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Revelation: Return of the King
Category: Prophecy , End-Times, Revelation
Summary:
The return of Christ is the climactic moment which all of salvation history is moving towards. The world is Christ’s by right of creation—for he made it all. The world is Christ’s by right of Calvary—He redeemed it all. The world is Christ’s by right of Conquest—He will retake it all! In Rev. 19 we discover at least four important attributes concerning the return of Christ.
Passage: Revelation 19:1-10
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Revelation: Return of the King
Category: Prophecy , End-Times, Revelation
Summary:
As grand as a royal wedding is, it pales in comparison to the Marriage Supper of the Lamb foretold in Rev. 19. You talk about a match made in heaven—literally that’s what will happen at the end of Tribulation period when the church is united with Christ in a ceremony that will have no equal. This is one of the most glorious events in the Bible and we ought to be excited about it!
Passage: Revelation 18:1-18
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Revelation: Return of the King
Category: Prophecy , End-Times, Revelation
Summary:
The book of Revelation devotes two chapters, 17 & 18, to the destruction of the Antichrist’s worldwide empire of the last days. Chapter 17 focuses on God’s judgment of Babylon’s idolatrous religion, while chapter 18 describes how God brings down Babylon’s commercial and financial sector. Like Humpty Dumpty who had a great fall, the Antichrist and the crown jewel of his kingdom, Babylon, will fall and no one will be able to put them back together again!
Passage: Revelation 17
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Revelation: Return of the King
Category: Prophecy , End-Times, Revelation
Summary:
Some talking heads have declared that religion is all but dead in our modern world. However, the Bible predicts that during the Tribulation that the Antichrist will create a religious system that will captivate the attention of the whole world. In Revelation 17 we see the emergence of this world religion and how it will deceive many. This religious system is pictured symbolically through graphic imagery—a drunk harlot riding a grotesque beast.
Passage: Revelation 15:1-16:20
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Revelation: Return of the King
Category: Prophecy , End-Times, Revelation
Summary:
As the Tribulation intensifies, the judgments are ratcheted up in strength and frequency. The last 7 that are described in Rev. 16 strike the planet with rapid fire succession and ferocity. Chapters 15 & 16 taken together form a split screen view of the action in heaven and on the earth during this terrible time and you’ll notice that the contrast couldn’t be more drastic!
Passage: Revelation 14:6-20
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Revelation: Return of the King
Category: Prophecy , End-Times, Revelation
Summary:
Angels will play a significant role in the end-times. In Rev. 8-9, we saw 7 angels blowing 7 trumpets, and with each blast came a terrible judgment on the earth. In Rev 12, the veil to an invisible war is pulled back and we catch a glimpse of Michael and his angels battling the demonic forces of Satan. And in Rev. 14 we see angels appearing to make important announcements to those left on the earth.
Passage: Revelation 14:1-5
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Revelation: Return of the King
Category: Prophecy , End-Times, Revelation
Summary:
We have weathered through several dark and destructive chapters in Revelation as the storm of the Tribulation has ravaged the Earth. In chapter 14 we see the storm cease for a moment as heavenly sunlight breaks through the clouds. In the first five verses we are reacquainted with group of believers who have survived the storm and have a testimony of praise to offer God. They are the 144,000 Jewish evangelists that we met earlier in chapter 7.
Passage: Revelation 13:11-18
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Revelation: Return of the King
Category: Prophecy , End-Times, Revelation
Summary:
In Revelation 13 we read that during the future tribulation period a despotic ruler—which the apostle John calls “the Beast”—is going to rise to power. He will be Satan’s CEO. Most know him by the title, “Antichrist.” One of the ways that he will gain control over the world is by an economic system which will force people to buy and sell by only using his prescribed mark. The Antichrist will have a right-hand man who will help him set up and maintain this global economy. His name is “the false prophet.”
Passage: Revelation 13:1-10
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Revelation: Return of the King
Category: Prophecy , End-Times, Revelation
Summary:
The Bible predicts that a leader is coming who will rule the whole world. He will have the charisma of a JFK, the eloquence of an Abraham Lincoln, the military might of an Alexander, the genius of a Steve Jobs and the heart of Adolph Hitler. The Bible describes him with 25 different aliases—“the son of perdition,” “the Beast,” “the man of sin”—but we know him best as, “The Antichrist.” In the first half of Revelation 13 we are given a brief biography of the Beast
Passage: Revelation 12
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Revelation: Return of the King
Category: Prophecy , End-Times, Revelation, Spiritual Warfare
Summary:
In Revelation 12 we have the curtain pulled back, so we can see the “invisible war” that has been raging behind the scenes of history since the beginning of time. In John’s vision we get a panorama of spiritual warfare as he describes three main characters involved in this invisible war—a celestial woman (Israel) and her royal child (Christ) and a fiery dragon (Satan) who seeks to destroy both.
Passage: Revelation 11:15-19
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Revelation: Return of the King
Category: Prophecy , End-Times, Revelation
Summary:
As we have seen thus far, Revelation is not just a book about the wrath of God—it’s also a book about the worship of God. Punctuated throughout the apocalyptic visions and terrible judgments are incredible moments of worship. It’s as if the windows of heaven are opened and we get a brief glimpse at the sight and sounds of the choirs surrounding God’s throne. At the end of chapter 11 we see the seventh trumpet sounded and a “Hallelujah Chorus” break out among the 24 elders. As the elders sing a new song to the Lamb they offer their praise in four different expressions of adoration.
Passage: Revelation 11:1-14
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Revelation: Return of the King
Category: Prophecy , End-Times, Revelation
Summary:
The Rapture will remove the salt and light of the Church from the world before that terrible time of judgment befalls those left behind. However, God will not leave the unbelieving masses without hope or a means to turn to Him before it is too late. Revelation 11 profiles the two witnesses sent to earth during the Tribulation to proclaim God’s Gospel in the midst of wrath.
Passage: Revelation 10
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Revelation: Return of the King
Category: Prophecy , End-Times, Revelation
Summary:
Rev. 10 is a much-needed calm in the midst of global crisis. Just like the eye of a storm, Rev. 10 is a chance to catch our breath and be reminded that the chaos of the Tribulation is still organized chaos – meaning, God is still in control even when the whole world is coming apart at the hinges!
Passage: Revelation 9
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Revelation: Return of the King
Category: Prophecy , End-Times, Revelation
Summary:
We don’t hear much about the reality of demonic possession in our modern world, but the Bible predicts that a time is coming in the last days when demons will run wild over mankind. Revelation 9 is a chapter about what will happen during the Tribulation period when God unleashes two judgments on the earth which will usher in a terrible series of demonic invasions literally bring about “hell on earth.”
Passage: Revelation 8
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Revelation: Return of the King
Category: Prophecy , End-Times, Revelation
Summary:
The Tribulation period began in Rev. 6 when Jesus broke the first six seals on the title deed of the Earth. After a brief parenthesis in Rev. 7 in which God supernaturally seals the 144,000 Jewish witnesses, we come to Rev. 8 where Jesus opens the seventh seal and a new set of judgments are unleashed upon the Earth--the Trumpets of Terror. You’ll notice that as the Tribulation progresses, the intensity of the judgments ratchets up and the situation on Earth will go from bad to worse.
Passage: Revelation 7
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Revelation: Return of the King
Category: Prophecy , End-Times, Revelation
Summary:
The Bible predicts a great spiritual awakening is still ahead. This outpouring of God’s grace will sweep the globe in just a few short years and produce a vast multitude of believers from every nation, making it the greatest movement of God’s saving power that the world will ever see. Oddly, this worldwide spiritual awakening will take place during the worst time in history—The Tribulation. As God’s wrath is being poured out on the earth, so too is His saving mercy. In Revelation 7 we will discover those whom God saves thru the Tribulation and those whom God saves in the Tribulation.
Passage: Revelation 6
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Revelation: Return of the King
Category: Prophecy , End-Times, Revelation
Summary:
In Rev. 6 we see the curtain rise as the final act of God’s divine drama begins. The drama plays out in two theaters—heaven and earth. In heaven, Jesus holds in His hands the title deed of the earth, which was pictured in chapter 5 as a seven-sealed scroll. With each seal that is loosed by the Lord Jesus a corresponding judgment on the earth is unleashed. Rev. 6 describes the beginning of the Tribulation period as the first six seals are broken and carnage fills the earth.
Passage: Revelation 5
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Revelation: Return of the King
Category: Prophecy , End-Times, Revelation
Summary:
The greatest real estate transaction of all time is found in Revelation chapter 5. In this passage, we are ushered back into the throne room of heaven. Around the throne we see hosts of angels, the redeemed church and the four living creatures. This awesome scene is punctuated by crescendos of spontaneous praise and worship in heaven. For a moment the choirs of heaven are hushed for as John witnesses the glorified Christ lay claim to the title deed of the earth.
Passage: Revelation 4
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Revelation: Return of the King
Category: Prophecy , End-Times, Revelation
Summary:
In Revelation 4 we have a sneak peek behind heaven’s curtain into the very throne room of God. If you have ever wondered, “What’s heaven going to be like?” this chapter offers us a prophetic preview—a glimpse of glory. You’ll discover that this passage is one of the most exciting and hopeful chapters in the Bible because it reminds us that none of earth’s strife, turmoil or confusion diminishes the joy, peace and worship of heaven.
Passage: Revelation 3:14-22
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Revelation: Return of the King
Category: Prophecy , End-Times, Revelation
Summary:
Of all the churches in Revelation 2-3, the last one—Laodicea—is probably the most pitiful. Their half-hearted approach to Christ made Him sick. In fact, a careful study of this letter shows that Jesus had nothing good to say about the Laodiceans. If Ephesus was loveless and Sardis lifeless, then Laodicea was worthless. As we study the letter to Laodicea, we will find it to be both a megaphone and a mirror—a megaphone warning us not to repeat her sins and a mirror to see if we have any of the same traits.
Passage: Revelation 3:7-12
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Revelation: Return of the King
Category: Prophecy , End-Times, Revelation
Summary:
The church at Philadelphia stood on the threshold of an exciting opportunity to reach out with the Gospel. In fact, of all the letters to the churches in Revelation I would have most wanted to be in attendance at Philadelphia on the day the mailman delivered this word from God. This church is unique because she is one of two that receive no criticism from Christ. Moreover, they had all the important pieces of a church getting ready to spark a movement for God.
Passage: Revelation 3:1-6
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Revelation: Return of the King
Category: Prophecy , End-Times, Revelation
Summary:
In the first verses of Revelation chapter 3 we read our Lord’s autopsy of a dead church. The believers in Sardis were barely clinging to life. This letter is unique because in every church we have studied thus far, Jesus has had at least something positive to say about each one. But, that is not the case with Sardis. Jesus had nothing good to say here. This letter is a sobering read, because it forces us to face the reality that what happened in Sardis could happen at any church, no matter their past victories.
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Revelation: Return of the King
Category: Prophecy , End-Times, Revelation
Summary:
The church at Thyatira failed to keep her guard up and the result was deadly, as she was infiltrated by false doctrine and immorality. Much like her sister church at Pergamum, the church at Thyatira lacked discernment, had a love affair with the world, tolerated sin and became “The Immoral Church.” Because the Lord wrote more to this carnal church than the others we’d do well to learn its important lesson—sin and false doctrine are not to be tolerated in the church—even under the popular banners of love, unity and acceptance.
Passage: Revelation 2:12-17
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Revelation: Return of the King
Category: Prophecy , End-Times, Revelation
Pergamum is known in the list of the seven churches of Revelation as, “The Compromising Church.” Interestingly, the name “Pergamum” actually means “a mixed marriage.” The chief sin of the church is bound up in its name, as the believers became married to the world. In Jesus’ letter to the believers at Pergamum we find a strong warning for today’s church to resist the constant undercurrent of the world which threatens to erode our spiritual foundation
Passage: Revelation 2:8-11
Preacher: Derrick McCarson
Series: Revelation: Return of the King
Category: Prophecy , End-Times, Revelation
Summary:
The fires of persecution burned hot against the believers in Smyrna. Yet, for the majority of America’s history, Christians in this nation have been insulated from much of the persecution that is normal in the rest of the world. But as our society grows more secular and the government more hostile, many predict that we will see a sea change. There is much we can learn from the example of the church in Smyrna so that we in this nation might prepare for persecution.