Machias Valley Baptist Church: Recent Episodes
Machias Valley Baptist Church
Sermons from Machias Valley Baptist Church in Machias, Maine, where Zach Vaughn is the Senior Pastor. Learn more about our small church in rural New England at www.machiasvalley.org.
August 2, 2026. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
Title: "Discipline, Correction, and Teachability"
Text: Proverbs 10:17; 15:31-33; 19:20; 20:30
Sermon Points:
1) The wise person seeks out instruction and learning.
2) The wise person seeks wise, Godly counsel and accountability.
3) The wise person learns from loving discipline.
4) Discipline and correction drive us into the heart of Jesus.
Has this podcast encouraged you? Consider supporting our ministry: www.machiasvalley.org/give and type "podcast" in the Note/memo line.
July 26, 2026. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
Title: "Wise Parenting"
Text: Proverbs 10:1; 22:6; 23:22-26; 29:3
Sermon Points:
1) Parents need to have a right understanding of the folly and sin of children.
2) Parents need to have a right understanding of training and discipline.
3) Parents need to lovingly pursue the hearts of their children.
4) In God, we have a Father who perfectly adopts, disciplines, and loves His children.
Has this podcast encouraged you? Consider supporting our ministry: www.machiasvalley.org/give and type "podcast" in the Note/memo line.
July 19, 2026. Guest Speaker: Miguel Brown. www.machiasvalley.org
Title: Living in Freedom
Text: Romans 8:1-4
Sermon Points:
1) Freed from sin.
2) Freed by God.
3) Freed to righteousness.
July 12, 2026. Pastor Zach Vaughn.
Title: "Neighborly Love and Friendship"
Text: Proverbs 12:26; 17:17; 18:24; 27:5-6, 17
Sermon Points:
1) Love and friendship require honesty.
2) Love and friendship require transparency.
3) Love and friendship require faithfulness.
4) Jesus is our truly faithful Friend.
Has this podcast encouraged you? Consider supporting our ministry: www.machiasvalley.org/give and type "podcast" in the Note/memo line.
July 5, 2026. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
Title: "Justice and Integrity"
Text: Proverbs 10:9; 11:1; 21:3; 24:10-12; 28:5-6
Sermon Points:
1) God's people are to have integrity in their dealings.
2) God's people are to give just treatment toward others.
3) We will only know true integrity and justice when we seek the heart of God.
June 28, 2026. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org.
Title: "Work and Laziness"
Text: Proverbs 12:11; 14:23; 16:3; 21:25-26
Sermon Points:
1) The sluggard cares little for God's design for work.
2) The diligent work hard to reflect God's image in work.
3) Christ redeems our work for His glory.
June 21, 2026. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
Title: "Following Jesus Through the Flames"
Text: 1 Peter 4:12-19
Sermon Points:
1) Suffering for Christ is the norm, not the exception, in a broken world.
2) God often brings about His purposes for His people through suffering.
3) The flames of suffering bid us to fling ourselves upon the sovereign care of Christ.
*We experienced technical difficulties during the recording of this audio and have done our best to improve it. Thank you for patience and for listening.
June 14, 2026. Miguel Brown, Pastoral Intern . www.machiasvalley.org
Title: Salvation: A Glorious Gift from Christ
Text: 1 Timothy 1:12-16
Sermon Points:
1) Salvation is despite us and should produce thanksgiving.
2) Salvation brings blessings of mercy and grace.
3) Salvation is Christ’s gift for all who believe in His name.
June 7, 2026. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
Title: "Wealth and Poverty"
Text: Proverbs 11:4, 11:24-25, 14:31, 22:9, 28:6
Sermon Points:
1) Learn to value and manage wealth, not trust in it.
2) Learn to be patient and content with what the Lord has given you.
3) Learn to be a generous blessing to your community and the poor.
4) Learn to model the gospel to fellow image-bearers with your money.
May 31, 2026. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
Title: "Righteousness, Wickedness, and the Consequence of Choice"
Text: Proverbs 10:6-7; 11:18-21; 15:9, 29
Sermon Points:
1) Righteousness is lasting; wickedness is fleeting
2) Righteousness brings consequences of blessing; wickedness brings consequences of destruction.
3) Righteousness brings nearness to the Lord.
May 24, 2026. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org.
Title: "Wise Speech"
Text: Proverbs 10:19, 15:1-2, 18:20-21
Sermon Points:
1) Be slow to speak and quick to listen.
2) Know when to speak and what to say.
3) Speaks words of life and not words of death.
May 17, 2026. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org.
Title: "The Feast of Wisdom"
Text: Proverbs 9:1-18
Sermon Points:
1) Wisdom offers a lavish banquet; folly offers stolen bread eaten in secret.
2) The wise receive correction; fools reject it.
3) True wisdom is found by fearing and knowing the Lord.
May 10, 2026. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org.
Title: "Wisdom and Its Blessings"
Text: Proverbs 8:1-36
Sermon Points:
1) Wisdom calls out for all who will listen.
2) Wisdom brings righteousness and blessing.
3) God created the world in His wisdom.
4) Wisdom brings life and favor.
April 26, 2026. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
Title: "Loans, Laziness, and Liars"
Text: Proverbs 6:1-19
Sermon Points:
1) God cares about integrity in our financial dealings.
2) God cares about our work ethic.
3) God cares about our dealings with others.
April 19, 2026. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org.
Title: "Sexual Temptation and God's Design for Intimacy"
Text: Proverbs 5:1-23
Sermon Points:
1) Giving into sexual temptation only leads to ruin and regret.
2) Delight yourself in your spouse.
3) Honor the Lord's design for sexual intimacy.
April 12, 2026. Guest Speaker: Micah Perkins. www.machiasvalley.org.
Title: "No One Left Behind"
Text: John 17
Sermon Points:
1) What is a covenant?
2) God exists outside of time.
3) Jesus was sent for you.
April 5, 2026. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
Title: "The Lavish Love of the Resurrected Savior"
Text: Luke 15:11-32
Sermon Points:
1) Jesus died and rose again for wayward rebels.
2) Jesus died and rose again for religious hypocrites.
3) Jesus is the better older brother who comes to bring us into His heavenly feast.
March 29, 2026. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
Title: "Two Ways to Live"
Text: Proverbs 4:10-27
Sermon Points:
1) We have a choice in life: The path of the righteous or the path of the wicked.
2) One path leads to increasing light, the other to deepening darkness.
3) Guard your heart by walking straight on the path of life.
March 22, 2026. Guest Speaker: Rob Wood, Elder.
Our mission is to participate in the Great Commission given by Jesus found in Matthew 28:18-20 and Acts 1:8.
Our vision is to be a body of equipped and employed saints referenced in Ephesians 4:13-16 and to be ever increasing in the fruit of the Spirit found in Galatians 5:22, 23.
Our values are found in Acts 2:42-47 to be a church devoted to the teaching of God’s Word, the fellowship of believers, the worshiping of Christ, the ministry of prayer, and the serving of one another.
www.machiasvalley.org/about
March 15, 2026. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
Title: "An Inheritance of Instruction"
Text: Proverbs 4:1-13
Sermon Points:
1) Godly instruction is received and passed down as an inheritance.
2) Godly instruction must be pursued and guarded.
3) Godly instruction leads us to true life.
March 8, 2026. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
Title: "The Blessing of Wisdom"
Text: Proverbs 3:13-35
Sermon Points:
1) Wisdom is a priceless blessing.
2) Wisdom is given and governed by God.
3) Wisdom bids us to live humbly before God and others.
March 1, 2026. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org.
Title: "Trust in the Lord with All Your Heart"
Text: Proverbs 3:1-12
Sermon Points:
1) Trust the Lord's commands and promises.
2) Trust the Lord's leading.
3) Trust the Lord's provision.
4) Trust the Lord's correction.
February 22, 2026. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
Title: "Treasuring the Safeguarding Nature of Wisdom"
Text: Proverbs 2:1-22
Sermon Points:
1) Treasure the wisdom of God.
2) Trust the Giver of wisdom.
3) Take the path of the righteous to guard against evil.
4) Trek on the path with the end in mind.
February 15, 2026. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
Title: "Dwelling Securely with the God of All Wisdom"
Text: Proverbs 1:20-33
Sermon Points:
1) Wisdom calls out for all who would listen.
2) There is destruction for the complacent fool, but security for the wise listener.
3) True spiritual wisdom awaits those who repent.
February 8, 2026. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
Title: "The Enticement of Unjust Gain"
Text: Proverbs 1:8-19
Sermon Points:
Prologue) Godly parenting is a gift from God.
1) Greed for unjust gain leads to all kinds of evil.
2) Greed for unjust gain leads to death.
3) Flee from temptation!
February 1, 2026. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org.
Title: "Godly Wisdom and How to Get It"
Text: Proverbs 1:1-7
Sermon Points:
1) Godly wisdom includes insight, instruction, seeking what is right and just, prudence, discretion, and guidance.
2) The fear of the Lord is the way to gain this wisdom.
3) We have two choices: the path of the wise or the path of the fool.
January 25, 2026. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org.
Text: Psalm 77:10-15
Sermon Points:
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Remember the eternal nature of God
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Remember the power of God
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Remember the saving work of God
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Celebrate the work of God
January 11, 2026. Mark Gedicks. www.machiasvalley.org.
Text: Colossians 3:1-17
Sermon Points:
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Seek and set your minds on things above
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Put to death the old self
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Put on compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, patience, forgiveness, and love
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Let the peace of Christ rule
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Let the Word of Christ dwell
December 28, 2025. Rob Wood. www.machiasvalley.org.
Title: The Truth of Christ
Sermon Points:
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The Truth of Christ as the Center of the Bible
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The Truth of Christ as Creator
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The Truth of Christ as Man
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The Truth of Christ as Savior
December 21, 2025. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
Text: Luke 2:29-32
Sermon Points:
1) Cling to God's promises by faith in the waiting.
2) Salvation is found solely in the person of Jesus.
3) Christmas is a global invitation to a dark world.
December 14, 2025. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org.
Text: Luke 1:68-79 Sermon Points:1) Christmas is God's initiative to be with His people.2) Jesus came with specific purposes: a) That His people would be saved from their enemies. b) To show His mercy. c) To keep His covenant. d) That His people would fearlessly serve in holiness and righteousness. 3) Christmas is an invitation to be on mission.
December 7, 2025. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org.
Text: Luke 1:46-55 Sermon Points:1) Christmas is a time to rejoice in Christ as Savior.2) Christmas is a time to humbly recognize God's goodness to us personally.3) Christmas is a time to praise God for His covenantal faithfulness to His people eternally.
November 23, 2025. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org.
Text: 2 Timothy 2:1-2, 8 Sermon Points:1) We make disciples through grace-filled strength.2) We make disciples who will make other disciples.3) Disciples set their minds and hearts on the resurrected King.
November 16, 2025. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org.
Text: Titus 2:1-14 Sermon Points:1) Discipleship entails right teaching.2) Discipleship models right living.3) Discipleship is fueled by the right gospel.
November 9, 2025. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
Text: John 15:1-17 Sermon Points:1) Discipleship is living life with Jesus. a) Know Jesus's words. b) Pray Jesus's will. c) Obey Jesus's commands. d) Love Jesus's people.2) Disciples will produce spiritual fruit.3) Disciples will help others come to know and abide in Jesus.
November 2, 2025. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
Text: Philippians 4:14-23 Sermon Points:1) Generous giving means sharing in the troubles of others. 2) Generous giving is an act of worship to God.3) God has generously given us grace and riches in glory in Christ Jesus.
October 26, 2025. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org.
Text: Philippians 4:10-13 Sermon Points:1) True contentment is learned. a) We learn from God's Word. b) We learn from experience.2) True contentment is found in both plenty and want.3) True contentment is not self-sufficient, but Christ-sufficient.
October 19, 2025. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
Text: Philippians 4:2-9
Sermon Points:1) Seek unity.2) Rejoice always.3) Be gentle and fair toward everyone.4) Fight anxiety with prayer.5) Dwell on and practice the things of God.
October 12, 2025. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org Text: Philippians 3:17-4:1 Sermon Points:1) Follow the examples of Jesus on earth.2) Set your mind on Jesus in heaven.3) Stand firm in Jesus.
October 5, 2025. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org.
Text: Jude 24-25 Sermon Points:1) The Sustaining Power of Jesus.2) The Supreme Exaltation of Jesus.
September 28, 2025. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org. Text: Philippians 3:12-16 Sermon Points:1) Persevere by recognizing you belong to Jesus. 2) Persevere by having a holy dissatisfaction in your own Christian journey.3) Persevere with the end in mind.
September 21, 2025. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org.
Text: Philippians 3:1-11 Sermon Points:1) Guard against works-based religiosity. 2) Jesus plus nothing equals everything.3) We should passionately pursue a relationship with Jesus.
September 14, 2025. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org. Text: Philippians 2:14-30 Sermon Points:1) We are to live as lights in a dark world.2) We are to hold firm and hold forth the word of life. 3) We are to live in sacrificial service of others.
September 7, 2025. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org.
Text: Philippians 2:12-13 Sermon Points:1) Obedience to God takes effort. 2) God supplies the desire and power for obedience.3) Obedience requires a reverential awe of a holy God.
August 31, 2025. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org.
Text: Philippians 2:1-11 Sermon Points:1) Enjoyment of the comforts of the gospel should lead us to pass them on to others.2) We should humbly think of others first because Jesus humbled Himself for us.3) Jesus's humble incarnation leads to His glorious exaltation!
August 24, 2025. Greg Beale. www.machiasvalley.org
Title: Walking on the Basis of Christ
Text: Colossians 2:6-15
August 17, 2025. Kip Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org.
Text: Luke 9:23, 57-62; Luke 14:26,43; Exodus 3-4
Points:
Cost of Discipleship to help us "Settle It" and keep Christ established as Head and Heart of our lives -- Luke 9:57-62
Some demands of Discipleship:
A. Love God Supremely - Settle It! --Mark 12:50 & Luke 14:26
B. Follow Christ Passionately - Settle It! --Luke 9:23
C. Forsake All Intentionally - Settle It! --Luke 14:33 & Exodus 3-4
August 10, 2025. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org. Text: Philippians 1:27-30 Sermon Points:1) The gospel shapes the way we live.2) Unity in the gospel is a visible fruit of faith.3) It is a privilege to know and suffer for Christ.
August 3, 2025. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org.
Text: Philippians 1:12-26 Sermon Points:1) Rejoice in the spread of the gospel, however it comes about.2) Because Christ is worth dying for.3) And Christ is worth living for.
June 27, 2025. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org.
Text: Philippians 1:1-11 Sermon Points:1) We need a right perspective of fellow believers: as saints in Christ Jesus.2) The partnership of the gospel must be central.3) We need confidence that God will sustain us and our fellow believers.4) We must love each other with the love that Jesus has.5) We should joyfully pray with the priorities of the gospel in mind.
July 20, 2025. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org.
Text: Matthew 16:24-28 Sermon Points:1) True life is found in death to self. 2) Souls are of measureless value. 3) Christ's return brings eternal reward.
July 13, 2025. Kurt Smith. www.machiasvalley.org.
Text: Proverbs 3:5-7
Point 1: Trust in the Lord with all your heart.
Action Item: Find one area in your life where you have resisted trusting God.
Point 2: Do not lean on your own understanding.
Action Item: Ask God to give you wisdom in a decision (big or small)
Point 3: In all your ways acknowledge Him.
Action Item: Identify one way this week you can imitate or acknowledge Christ.
Point 4: He will make straight our path.
Action Item: Trust the path He sets before you (even if it's hard and uncomfortable).
July 6, 2025. Ethan Davis. www.machiasvalley.org
Text: John 3:22-36; John 4:1-38
Sermon Points:
1) God isn't interested in methods and programs to achieve effective ministry.
2) Sin is a roadblock to the progression of our individual and collective relationship with God.
3) We plant the seeds and water them, but God gives the increase.
June 29, 2025. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
Text: Ezekiel 38-39 Sermon Points:1) Christ restores the presence of God to His people. 2) Christ establishes the perfect priesthood and kingship.3) Christ brings life and healing to the world.
June 22, 2025. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
Text: Ezekiel 38-39 Sermon Points:1) Different interpretations exist.2) Real enemies exist.3) God is sovereign over people, time, and space.4) God is the True Victor.
June 15, 2025. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.com.
Text: Ezekiel 37 Sermon Points:1) The proclamation of God's Word.2) A move of God's Spirit.3) The centrality of God's Gospel.4) The unity of God's People.
June 8, 2025. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org Text: Ezekiel 35-36 Sermon Points:1) The Lord hears the plight of His people.2) The Lord restores His exiled people.3) The Lord transforms the hearts of His cleansed people.
June 1, 2025. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
Text: Ezekiel 34 Sermon Points:1) Bad shepherds use the flock for their own gain.2) The flock belongs to God. a) He feeds them. b) He corrects them. c) He rescues them. 3) God will dwell with His sheep forever in paradise.4) Jesus is the Chief Shepherd.
May 25, 2025. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
Text: Ezekiel 33 Sermon Points:1) The call of the watchman is of eternal significance.2) God desires to bring life where death reigns.3) God's message is for action, not entertainment.
May 18, 2025. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org.
Text: Ezekiel 25-32 Sermon Points:1) God is sovereign over the nations.2) Behind earthly conflict is a spiritual struggle between good and evil.3) God's judgment of evil brings hope to His people.
May 5, 2025. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org.
Text: Ezekiel 17-24 Sermon Points:1) Any judgment before the final judgment is a call for repentance (Ezekiel 18:20-32).2) God saves in spite of us, for the sake of His name (Ezekiel 20:33-44).3) Sin has serious consequences (Ezekiel 21:1-10).4) A better King is coming (Ezekiel 19:13-14 and 17:22-24).
May 4, 2025. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org.
Text: Psalm 67 Sermon Points:1) God's message: The blessing of salvation.2) God's mission: To all nations.3) God's goal: His glory to the ends of the earth.
April 27, 2025. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org.
Guest Speaker: Ethan Davis
Title: Run the Race
Text: Hebrews 12:1-13
April 20, 2025. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
Text: Luke 24:36-53 Sermon Points:1) The resurrection brings peace.2) The resurrection comes with empirical proof.3) The resurrection brings transformation.
April 13, 2025. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
Text: Ezekiel 12-16 Sermon Points:1) Beware of the false hopes of false prophets.2) Be humbled by the depth of human depravity. 3) Be amazed by the grace of Christ's atonement.
April 6, 2025. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
Title: "God's Glory Leaves the Temple" Text: Ezekiel 8-11 Sermon Points:1) God sees all worship, public and private, right and corrupt.2) God disciplines and delivers.3) God takes away His glory from where He is not welcome.4) God gives His people the hope of regenerated hearts.
March 30, 2025. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org.
Title: "A Drama of Judgment" Text: Ezekiel 4-7 Sermon Points:1) Judgment comes for the wicked.2) God will leave a broken remnant. 3) God is known in His judgments.
March 23, 2025. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org.
Title: "God's Commission in Declining Times" Text: Ezekiel 1-3 Sermon Points:1) We need a perspective of God's glory.2) We need an awareness of God's presence.3) We need the empowering of God's Spirit.4) We need to feed on God's Word.5) We need to consider the seriousness of God's call.
March 16, 2025. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
Title: "The Self-Sacrifice of Marriage" Text: Song of Solomon 2:15-17 Sermon Points:1) Destroy what threatens to undo your marriage.2) Give yourself fully to the other in marriage.3) Work together to focus on Jesus in your marriage.
March 9, 2025. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org Title: "The Conflict in Marriage" Text: James 4:1-10 Sermon Points:1) We have an inward struggle of warring desires.2) Warmth in relationship correlates with proximity to God.3) We need humble submission to the Lord.
March 2, 2025. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org. Title: "The Covenant of Marriage" Text: Matthew 19:1-12 Sermon Points:1) Marriage is a permanent covenant.2) The greatest problem in marriage is a hard heart.3) Singleness can be a Godly calling.4) Marriage teaches us about the New Covenant.
Title: "The Purpose for Marriage" Text: Colossians 1:16 Sermon Points:1) "Created through Him:" Marriage is Jesus's idea.2) "Created for Him:" Marriage is designed for Jesus's glory. 3) Marriage is a means for growth.
February 2, 2025. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
Title: "The Empty Tomb" Text: Mark 16:1-20 Sermon Points:Prelude: What's going on with verses 9-20?1) The resurrection of Jesus is the ultimate hope of the believer.2) The resurrection of Jesus sends us out to be on mission with Jesus.
January 26, 2025. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
Title: "Crucified in My Place, Part 2" Text: Mark 15:33-47 Sermon Points:1) To grasp the atonement, we must grasp the seriousness of God's wrath.2) We have access to God through the torn flesh of Jesus.3) We can have courage, because Sunday is coming!
January 19, 2025. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org. Title: "Crucified in My Place, Part 1" Text: Mark 15:16-32 Sermon Points:1) Jesus was shamed so that we might gain approval.2) Because of the cross, we can live lives free of shame and guilt.3) Jesus couldn't be saved so that He might save others.
January 12, 2025. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org Title: "Crucified For Us Under Pontius Pilate" Text: Mark 15:1-15 Sermon Points:1) Jesus models for us how to suffer rightly. 2) Jesus is a King, but not THAT kind of king.3) Jesus takes our place and we get His.
January 5, 2025. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
Title: "State of the Unity" Text: Acts 2:42-47 Sermon Points:1) We strive to devote ourselves to the practices of the early church.2) We desire to be in awe of God.3) We celebrate all that the Lord has done in our midst.
December 29, 2024. Pastor Bob Emrich. www.machiasvalley.org
Title: "Press on to Know the Lord"
December 22, 2024. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org.
Title: "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing" Text: Luke 2:8-20 Sermon Points:1) The glory of God incarnate must be proclaimed. a) Sometimes through extraordinary means. b) Mostly through ordinary means. 2) The glory of God incarnate is the focus of God.3) The glory of God incarnate brings the peace of God.
December 15, 2024. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
Title: "Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus" Text: Haggai 2:7/Luke 2:21-35 Sermon Points:1) The glorious treasure of Christ and His Kingdom is beyond all compare.2) All the benefits of the Christian life are wrapped up in the gift of Christ.3) Rest in Christ is greater than the strife of the world.
December 8, 2024. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
Title: "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel"
Text: Isaiah 7:14, 9:6-7
Sermon Points:
1) The significance of "God with us"
2) The scariness of "God with us"
3) The salvation of "God with us"
4) The seeking of "God with us"
December 1, 2024. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
Title: "Joy to the World!" Text: Psalm 98 Sermon Points:1) "The Lord has come": Rejoicing in God's salvation.2) "Let men their songs employ": Expressing this joy through song.3) "Far as the curse is found": Hoping in the universal extent of Christ's reign.
November 24, 2024. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
Title: A King in a Kangaroo Court
Text: Mark 14:53-72
Sermon Points:
1) Satan loves to pervert justice.
2) Jesus is the Messianic King seated in power.
3) Will you respond like Judas or like Peter?
November 17, 2024. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
Title: "The Kiss of Death"
Text: Mark 14:43-52
Sermon Points:
1) Judas displays the kingdom of this world.
2) Jesus displays submission to the Father.
3) Jesus is the True and Better Adam.
November 10, 2024. Micah Perkins. www.machiasvalley.org
Title: "There is None Righteous"
Text: Romans 3:10
Session 4 - STEADFAST: Bringing Our Culture to the Rock.
November 1-2, 2024. Ladies Conference with Charla DeJager.
STEADFAST: Living as Christian Women in Today's Challenging Culture
www.machiasvalley.org
Session 3 - STEADFAST: Bringing our Emotions to the Rock
November 1-2, 2024. Ladies Conference with Charla DeJager.
STEADFAST: Living as Christian Women in Today's Challenging Culture
www.machiasvalley.org.
Session 2 - STEADFAST: Bringing Our Circumstances to the Rock
November 1-2, 2024. Ladies Conference with Charla DeJager.
STEADFAST: Living as Christian Women in Today's Challenging Culture.
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Session 1 - STEADFAST: God is Our Rock
November 1-2, 2024. Ladies Conference with Charla DeJager.
STEADFAST: Living as Christian Women in Today's Challenging Culture.
www.machiasvalley.org
November 3, 2024. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org.
Title: "The Anguish of Jesus"
Text: Mark 14:32-42
Sermon Points:
1) The reality of Christ's anguish.
2) The dreadfulness of God's wrath.
3) The beauty of submission to God's will.
4) The strategy for standing firm in temptation.
October 20, 2024. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org.
Title: "The Faithful Shepherd"
Text: Mark 14:26-31
Sermon Points:
1) Jesus sung with His sheep.
2) Jesus is committed to His sheep even unto death.
3) Jesus is a living Shepherd who leads His sheep.
October 13, 2024. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
Title: "A Better Passover Feast"
Text: Mark 14:12-25
Sermon Points:
1) Jesus sets the table (Christ’s control over the Last Supper).
2) Jesus serves at the table (Institution of the Lord’s Supper).
- a) The symbol.
- b) The reality.
3) Come sinner, and feast at the table (Christ’s invitation in the Lord’s Supper).
October 6, 2024. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org.
Title: "Extravagant Love"
Text: Mark 14:1-11
Sermon Points:
1) Extravagant love for self: Judas and the chief priests.
2) Extravagant love for Christ: Mary and the alabaster flask.
3) The supreme value of Christ.
September 29, 2024. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
Title: "Perseverance to the End, Part 2"
Text: Mark 13:24-37
Sermon Points:
1) Jesus will come again in power and glory.
2) Jesus will come again because His words are enduring.
3) Jesus will come again, so we should live faithful, hope-filled lives.
September 22, 2024. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org.
Title: "Perseverance to the End, Part 1"
Text: Mark 13:1-23
Sermon Points:
1) Do not be led astray, though there will be deception.
2) Proclaim Christ and His Gospel, though there will be persecution.
3) Be on guard by knowing the real Jesus.
September 15, 2024. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
Title: "Who Are You Living to Please?"
Text: Mark 12:38-44
Sermon Points:
1) The hypocrisy of self-focused religion.
2) The beauty of God-centered sacrifice.
September 8, 2024. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org.
Title: "Greater than David"
Text: Mark 12:35-37
Sermon Points:
1) We believe and confess: Jesus is equally both God and man.
2) We believe and confess: There is a coming judgment for the enemies of Christ.
September 1, 2024. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
Title: "Love God, Love Others"
Text: Mark 12:28-34
Sermon Points:
1) We are commanded to love God supremely.
2) We are commanded to love others genuinely.
3) We come into the Kingdom as we love Jesus truly.
Introspective questions about loving God (from Sam Storms):
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Is the Lord the all-consuming passion of my life?
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Do I have a deep, intense, and abiding affection for my Lord?
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Am I loyal to my God with an exclusive love?
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Do I resist and even oppose anything or anyone that seeks to do my Lord harm?
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Am I zealous to defend, with grace, my Lord's name and honor?
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Do I enjoy spending time with my Lord?
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Do I do things that please my Lord and increase His joy?
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Do I brag on my Lord to others?
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Do I tell my Lord that I love Him?
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Do I talk with my Lord as much as I can?
Practical ways to love your neighbor in the context of Leviticus 19:
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Care for the poor (19:10)
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Don't steal (19:11)
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Don't lie (19:11)
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Be fair in business dealings (19:14)
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Care for the deaf (19:14)
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Care for the blind (19:14)
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Deal justly with all (19:15)
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Avoid slander (19:16)
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Don't "jeopardize" the life of your neighbor (19:16)
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Don't "harbor hatred against your brother" (19:17)
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Rebuke your neighbor when necessary for his and your good (19:17)
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Don't take revenge or bear a grudge against others (19:18)
August 25, 2024. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org.
Title: "The God of the Living"
Text: Mark 12:18-27
Sermon Points:
1) The connection between marriage and the resurrection.
2) The Scriptures attest to the resurrection.
3) The power of God is the basis of the resurrection.
August 18, 2024. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org.
Title: "Jesus, Government, and Taxes"
Text: Mark 12:13-17
Sermon Points:
1) Give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar.
2) Give to God what belongs to God.
3) The marvelous wisdom of Jesus.
August 11, 2024.
Guest Speaker: Rob Wood
Title: Our Hope as Believers
Text: 1 Peter 3:8-18
Sermon Points:
1. Our Hope displayed in our action
2. Our Hope defended with reason
3. Our Hope dependent on the Gospel
www.machiasvalley.org
July 28, 2024. Guest Speaker: Dr. Greg Beale. Dr. Beale is a professor of New Testament at Reformed Theological Seminary in Dallas, Texas. Learn more about him here.
Title: "Why Should We Be Thankful to God?"
Text: 1 Thessalonians 1:2-5
www.machiasvalley.org.
August 4, 2024. John 17:6-26. Pastor Zach Vaughn.
www.machiasvalley.org.
Title: "Living for Jesus According to How He Prayed"
Text: John 17:6-26
Sermon Points:
1) We obey God's Word.
2) We accept God's gifts through faith.
3) We belong to God.
4) We bring glory to Jesus.
5) We trust God's protection in the world.
6) We are filled with joy.
7) We are made holy by God's truth.
8) We are sent on mission to share God's Word.
9) We are united in Christ.
10) We know and long for Jesus.
July 21, 2024. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org.
Title: "The Warning of the Parable of the Tenants"
Text: Mark 11:27-12:12
Sermon Points:
1) Beware of fear of man.
2) Beware of rejecting the authority of the Messiah.
3) Beware of rejecting the salvation of God, the Cornerstone.
July 14, 2024. Elders Q&A Sunday. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
The MVBC Elders are Rob Wood, David Hopkins, David Burns, Micah Perkins and Zach Vaughn.
Elders Q&A
Personal Questions
- Who are you? Briefly tell us about yourself.
- What specific way is the Lord working in your own heart right now?
- Outside of the Bible, what resources have been the most helpful in building up your faith and love for Christ?
- What is your favorite passage of Scripture and why?
Question Regarding the “Capital C” Church
- What is encouraging about the state of the Church right now? What is challenging about the state of the Church right now?
Questions Regarding MVBC
- What are some ways that our people can be involved within the life of the church?
- What are some ways that we as leaders can grow?
- What do you think we are doing well regarding our Mission, Vision, and Values? What do you think we can improve on?
Elders Recommended Resources:
- Biblical Eldership by Alexander Strauch
- Bible Doctrine by Wayne Grudem
- gotquestions.org
- biblethinker.org
- Life in the Valley podcast
- Grace to You podcast
- R. C. Sproul
- His Presence is in His Name by J.D. Greear
Sermon
Title: "Shepherding the Flock of God"
Text: 1 Peter 5:1-4
Sermon Points:
1) With willing oversight.
2) With selfless eagerness.
3) With gentle holiness.
4) With hope-filled sights set on Jesus.
July 7, 2024. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
Title: "Impossible Prayer"
Text: Mark 11:20-25
Sermon Points:
1) The prayer of faith focuses on the Giver.
2) The prayer of faith asks of God the impossible.
3) Moving the ultimate mountain: praying for forgiveness.
June 30, 2024. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
Title: "A Barren Temple and a Withered Tree"
Text: Mark 11:11-21
Sermon Points:
1) Pay attention to the vivid lesson of the fig tree.
2) Avoid the hypocrisy in the temple.
3) Trust that we have a better Temple.
June 23, 2024. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
Title: "The Final King"
Text: Mark 11:1-10
Sermon Points:
1) Jesus as the Davidic King.
2) Jesus as a humble King.
3) Jesus as a saving King.
June 16, 2024. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
Title: "Blind Bartimaeus and the Mercy of Christ"
Text: Mark 10:46-52
Sermon Points:
1) A cry of desperation and our response.
2) The King who stops for the one.
3) The healing grace that saves.
June 9, 2024. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org.
Title: "Ransomed to Serve"
Text: Mark 10:32-45
Sermon Points:
1) The world desires greatness.
2) The Church pursues servanthood.
3) The Christ comes to serve and to save.
June 2, 2024. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
Title: "So, You Want Eternal Life?"
Text: Mark 10:17-31
Sermon Points:
1) The problem: Idolatrous love and the allure of riches.
2) The solution: God's saving power.
3) The call: Leave it all to receive it all.
4) The promise: Jesus, the ultimate Benefactor.
May 25, 2024. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org.
Title: "Child-Like Trust in a Good King"
Text: Mark 10:13-16
Sermon Points:
1) The problem of a low view of children.
2) The Kingdom of God must be received with a child-like faith.
3) Jesus is a trustworthy King who blesses His people.
May 19, 2024. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
Title: "Kingdom-Minded Marriage"
Text: Mark 10:1-12
Sermon Points:
1) The problem of hard-heartedness in marriage.
2) A restored vision of marriage.
3) A union by God for the glory of God.
May 12, 2024. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
Title: "The Cross-Shaped Life, Part 2"
Text: Mark 9:42-50
Sermon Points:
1) A cross-shaped life means we guard against the spiritual downfall of others.
2) A cross-shaped life means we fight sin vehemently.
3) A cross-shaped life means we pursue uncompromised peace.
May 5, 2024. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
Title: "The Cross-Shaped Life, Part 1"
Text: Mark 9:30-41
Sermon Points:
1) A cross-shaped life must begin with the gospel.
2) A cross-shaped life must be one of serving others.
3) A cross-shaped life must serve out of allegiance to Christ.
April 7, 2024. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org.
Title: "The Divinity of Jesus"
Text: Mark 9:2-13
Sermon Points:
1) Behold the hidden glory of Jesus.
2) Wait for the glorious return of Jesus.
3) Listen to the words of Jesus.
4) Remember the suffering of Jesus.
March 31, 2024. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org.
Title: "Easter According to Jesus"
Text: Mark 8:31-9:1
Sermon Points:
1) The Power for Christianity
a) Personal Transformation
b) Legal Justification
c) Cosmic Redemption
2) The Call of Christianity
3) The Hope of Christianity
a) Future Resurrection
b) Present Power
March 24, 2024. Pastor Zach Vaughn.
Title: "Eyes Opened"
Text: Mark 8:22-30
Sermon Points:
1) A picture of our blindness.
2) False views of a blind world.
3) The healing confession of Christ's identity.
www.machiasvalley.org
March 17, 2024. Mark 8:1-21. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
Title: "Beware: Unbelief Lurks Here"
Text: Mark 8:1-21
Sermon Points:
1) Beware of missing out on the Lord's power.
2) Beware of testing the Lord.
3) Beware of self-focused unbelief.
March 3, 2024. Guest Speaker: Paul Trovarello. Paul is the Director of Arise Addiction Recovery and assistant pastor of Machias Christian Fellowship in Machias, Maine.
Sermon Title: "Jesus, Master! Have Mercy on Us!"
Text: Luke 17:11-19
www.machiasvalley.org
February 25, 2024. Pastor Zach Vaughn.
Title: Traditions, Scripture, and the Heart of Man
Text: Mark 7:1-23
Sermon Points:
1) Outward worship without a heart for God is worthless.
2) God's commands trump any tradition of man.
a) God's Word is our rule for all of life.
b) Adding to the Word of God actually takes away from the Word of God.
3) Defilement is not a matter of outward conformity, but of inward desires.
www.machiasvalley.org
February 18, 2024. Pastor Zach Vaughn.
Title: "The Patient and Powerful Christ"
Text: Mark 6:45-56
Sermon Points:
1) Jesus is patient with His people.
2) Jesus desires for us to recognize His deity.
3) Come to Jesus and be made well.
www.machiasvalley.org
February 4, 2024. Guest Speaker, Pastor Aaron Dudley, Machias Christian Fellowship. 2 Timothy 2:1-7.
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January 28, 2024. Guest speaker: Pastor Paul Mwesigwa, Hope and Mercy Mission, Uganda.
www.machiasvalley.org
January 7, 2024. Romans 12:1-5. Pastor Zach Vaughn.
Sermon Points:
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We worship the Lord as living sacrifices redeemed by God's mercy.
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We worship the Lord as a diverse church unified in Christ.
a) We covenant together.
b) We celebrate together.
c) We walk into the future together.
MVBC Church Covenant
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December 31, 2023. 2 Peter 3:10-18. Matthew 19. Guest speaker, Keith McMahon. www.machiasvalley.org
December 17, 2023. Ruth 3. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
Sermon Points:
1) Intentional faith in the character of the redeemer.
2) Steadfast love from the heart of the redeemer.
3) Patient hope in the trustworthiness of the redeemer.
December 10, 2023. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
Sermon Title: "A Redeemer Who Provides and Protects"
Sermon Text: Ruth 2:1-23
Sermon Points:
Interlude: The worthy man, Boaz.
1) Provision and protection.
2) A superior refuge.
3) We are filled to go to the empty.
4) Boaz: A redeemer in Bethlehem.
December 3, 2023. Pastor Zach Vaughn. "Ruth: A Redeemer in Bethlehem" sermon series.
"The Need for a Redeemer"
Ruth 1:1-22
Sermon Points:
1) A tale of two [countries].
2) Kindness, repentance, and return.
3) We come empty to be filled.
www.machiasvalley.org
November 26, 2023. Pastor Zach Vaughn.
Text: Mark 5:21-43
Sermon Points:
1) Jesus hears and cares.
2) Jesus cleanses and heals.
3) Jesus comforts and resurrects.
www.machiasvalley.org
November 12, 2023. Guest Speaker: Dave Burns.
The Bible
1) Its supernatural character.
2) Its complete accuracy.
3) Its fulfillment of prophecy.
4) Its miraculous preservation.
5) Its transforming power.
www.machiasvalley.org
November 5, 2023. Guest Speaker - Micah Perkins.
Sermon Text: Jonah
Sermon Points:
- Jesus is the greater prophet.
- God is the source of faith.
- God has the power to choose from the least to the greatest.
www.machiasvalley.org
....Even In Difficult Relationships: The Lives of the Disciples
November 3-4, 2023
Ladies Conference with Ann Swindell
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www.annswindell.com
....Even When Our Dreams Have Been Shattered: The Life of Ruth, the Moabite
November 3-4, 2023
Ladies Conference with Ann Swindell
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www.annswindell.com
....Even in Challenging Circumstances: The Life of Sarah, Abraham's Wife
November 3-4, 2023
Ladies Conference with Ann Swindell
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www.annswindell.com
October 22, 2023. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
Text: Mark 5:1-20
Sermon Points:
1) The power of demonic forces.
2) The superior power of the Son of the Most High God.
3) The testimony of the mercy of Jesus.
*We experienced technical issues with the audio recording during this sermon. It's not you; it's us. :)
October 15, 2023. Pastor Zach Vaughn.
Text: Mark 4:35-41
Sermon Points:
1) Biblical background to water and seas.
2) The connection between fear and faith.
3) The undeniable identity of the Son of God.
www.machiasvalley.org
October 8, 2023. Mark 4:21-34. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
Sermon Points:
1) The light of Christ is meant to be revealed.
2) Light breeds more light.
3) The Word grows the Kingdom...slowly, but surely.
4) The growth of the Kingdom: from insignificance to magnificence.
October 1, 2023. Mark 4:1-20. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
Sermon Points:
1) Parables: Prophetic fulfillment and clear delineation.
2) Hard Soil: The Indifferent Ear.
3) Rocky Soil: The Fearful Ear.
4) Thorny Soil: The Distracted Ear.
5) Good Soil: The Listening Ear.
September 17, 2023. Mark 3:22-30. The Gospel of Mark: The Suffering Servant and His Mission. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
April 16, 2023. 2 Corinthians 3:18. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
"Gazing at Glory"
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We become what we behold.
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We are transformed into the image of Jesus.
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This comes through Spirit-driven disciplines.
April 9, 2023. Easter Sunday. Romans 5:1-11. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org.
February 5, 2023. Genesis 38-39. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
Sermon Points:
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Two different responses to temptation.
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God's presence in times of ease.
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God's presence in times of difficulty.
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How we can walk in holiness.
January 15, 2023. Genesis 35-36. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
Series - Genesis: Beginning, Brokenness & Blessing
January 1, 2023. Genesis 32-33. Genesis: Beginning, Brokenness & Blessing. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
December 25, 2022. Luke 2:14. Revelation 21:22-22:5. Pastor Zach Vaughn. www.machiasvalley.org
November 5, 2022. Gracia Burnham. Session 3. "Grace Under Fire" 2022 Ladies Conference. www.machiasvalley.org
November 5, 2022. Gracia Burnham. Session 2. "Grace Under Fire" 2022 Ladies Conference. www.machiasvalley.org
November 4, 2022. Gracia Burnham. "Grace Under Fire" 2022 Ladies Conference. www.machiasvalley.org
October 2, 2022, Ephesians 4:17-24, Pastor Zach Vaughn.
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The way of the world is futile.
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We only learn the truth in Christ.
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Put off the old, put on the new.
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August 14, 2022
Guest speaker Dr. Greg Beale, Reformed Theological Seminary.
Text: 1 Thessalonians 1:6-10
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July 31, 2022 - Guest Speaker Paul Trovarello - Mark 12:41-44.
Paul is the Director of Arise Addiction Recovery, a ministry based in Machias, Maine that helps people recover from addiction through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. For more information about this ministry, visit www.ariseaddictionrecovery.com.
July 3, 2022 - Ephesians 1:15-23. Pastor Zach Vaughn.
*Please note: we had some technical difficulties with this audio recording.
www.machiasvalley.org
June 12, 2022 - Today we begin our sermon series in the book of Ephesians. The series is entitled "Ephesians: Church Alive In Christ."
June 19, 2022 - Ephesians 1:7-10 in this second sermon of the series "Ephesians: Church Alive in Christ."
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