First Baptist Church - Wisconsin Rapids, WI: Recent Episodes
Josh Kohn
In the wake of the assassination of Charlie Kirk, as well as other recent unprovoked violence from the left, what does the Christian faith have to say?
KeywordsChristian faith, good deposit, generational faith, roles of men and women, sound teaching, church, gospel, justification, Paul, TimothySummaryIn this sermon, Pastor Josh emphasizes the importance of guarding the Christian faith as a valuable deposit entrusted to believers. Drawing from the letters of Paul to Timothy, he highlights the generational aspect of faith, the distinct roles of men and women in the church, and the necessity of holding fast to sound teaching. He warns against the dangers of cultural conformity and the need for the church to provide a unique and compelling message that cannot be found elsewhere. Ultimately, the call is to preserve and pass down the good deposit of faith for future generations.TakeawaysGuard the good deposit entrusted to you.The Christian faith is a valuable deposit.Faith must be passed down through generations.Men are called to lead in the church.Women have essential teaching roles.Justification is by faith, not works.Hold fast to sound teaching from scripture.The church must be unique in its message.Cultural conformity threatens the church's integrity.Preserve the faith for future generations.
Text: 1 ThessaloniansPreacher: Josh KohnKeywordshope, second coming, affliction, conversion, mortality, faith, Christian life, wrath, deliverance, living for ChristSummaryIn this sermon, Josh reflects on the transient nature of life and the importance of placing hope in Christ, especially in the face of mortality and affliction. He discusses the second coming of Christ, emphasizing the need for conversion and the reality of suffering in the Christian life. It culminates in a call to live in light of the hope found in Christ, urging listeners to prepare for the coming of the Lord and to live lives that reflect their faith.TakeawaysLife is fleeting, and we must consider where we place our hope.The second coming of Christ is a central theme in Christian faith.Conversion is necessary; we are not born Christians but must become followers of Christ.Affliction and suffering are expected in the Christian life.The prosperity gospel contradicts the reality of Christian suffering.Christ delivers us from the wrath to come, offering hope to sinners.Death does not separate believers from Christ; they will be with Him forever.We should live in a way that reflects our hope in Christ.What we do in this life has eternal significance.We are called to rejoice and pray without ceasing, even in trials.Sound Bites"There is one hope for sinners.""Death will not part you from Christ.""What we do in life echoes in eternity."Chapters00:00 Afflictions and Trials in the Christian Life00:21 The Second Coming of Christ06:20 The Importance of Conversion15:23 Expecting Affliction and Living in Hope26:34 The Day of the Lord and Accountability28:29 The Hope of Resurrection32:32 Living in Light of Christ's Return
Summary
In this sermon, Pastor Josh emphasizes the supremacy of Christ in all aspects of life, the importance of prayer, and the need for believers to seek Christ above all else. The discussion covers the themes of redemption, the authority of Christ, and the centrality of Christ in the church, urging listeners to recognize their need for Him and to live a life that reflects His preeminence.
Keywords
standards, gospel, conduct, priorities, worship, Christian life, Philippians, faith, community, excellenceTakeawaysStandards in life are crucial for success.Conducting oneself in a manner worthy of the gospel is imperative.Unity in the church is vital for the faith.We must reassess our priorities in life and faith.Worship should be a priority, not an afterthought.The freedom to worship is often neglected.Our actions should reflect the gospel we believe in.We are called to strive together for the sake of the gospel.God's grace enables us to live to the glory of God. Our highest value should be God Himself.SummaryIn this sermon, Pastor Josh emphasizes the importance of maintaining high standards in life, particularly in the context of faith and community. Drawing from personal experiences in athletics, he illustrates how holding high standards can lead to excellence and unity. The discussion transitions into the biblical call to conduct oneself in a manner worthy of the gospel, urging listeners to reassess their priorities and the importance of worship. The conversation culminates in a reflection on the freedom to worship and the need to live in response to the gospel, highlighting God's grace and the call to serve Him faithfully.Chapters00:00 Call to Worship and Prayer00:36 Sermon Introduction: Conduct Worthy of the Gospel05:51 Living in Unity and Striving Together14:11 Reassessing Priorities in Worship24:00 The Importance of Seeking God First30:47 The Gospel and Our Conduct35:02 Conclusion and Call to ActionSound Bites"Seek first the kingdom of heaven.""Let your conduct be worthy.""Seek to glorify God with this life."
Summary
In this sermon, Josh discusses the complexities of understanding God's law and the gospel. He reflects on his personal journey of faith, the importance of sound teaching, and the dangers of distorted gospels that intertwine faith and works. He emphasizes the significance of grace and the assurance of salvation through faith alone, urging listeners to stand firm in their beliefs and to recognize the true nature of justification.
Takeaways
God's law is a high standard that is impossible to keep.
The realization of one's need for mercy can lead to true faith.
Sound teaching is crucial for spiritual health.
False teachings can lead to spiritual confusion and danger.
Justification is by faith alone, not by works.
The gospel is a free gift, not earned by human effort.
The consequences of false teaching are severe for both teachers and followers.
Christ's sacrifice is sufficient for salvation.
Believers are called to stand firm in their faith against distortions of the gospel.
Understanding the true nature of justification brings assurance of salvation.
Chapters
00:00 The Struggle with God's Law
04:59 The Journey to Understanding the Gospel
08:11 The Importance of Sound Teaching
14:08 The Danger of False Teachings
20:10 The True Gospel vs. Distorted Teachings
26:04 The Role of Works in Justification
31:57 The Assurance of Salvation
Sound Bites
"Sound teaching matters."
"Let them be damned."
"Doctrine matters."
Keywords
God's law, gospel, faith, works, justification, false teaching, grace, salvation, Christian teaching, church
Keywords
Christian life, Sermon on the Mount, Jesus teachings, grace, invitation, rest, burden, salvation, faith, spirituality
Summary
Guest preacher Brian Thorstad (www.helpingchurchesthrive.com) reflects on the Christian life, emphasizing its ease through the teachings of Jesus, particularly in the Sermon on the Mount. He discusses the depth of Jesus' teachings, the invitation to find rest in Him, and the grace that allows all to come to God, regardless of their burdens. He highlights the universal call to the weary and the importance of recognizing one's need for salvation.
Takeaways
The Christian life is often perceived as difficult, but it can be made easier through understanding Jesus' teachings.
The Sermon on the Mount presents a radical redefinition of what it means to live as a follower of Christ.
Jesus' teachings challenge superficial interpretations of the law, calling for deeper understanding and commitment.
Recognizing our own helplessness is key to understanding our need for God's grace.
Jesus invites all who are weary and burdened to come to Him for rest.
The call to come to Jesus is inclusive, extending to all who recognize their need for salvation.
God's grace is evident throughout the Bible, not just in the New Testament.
The law was intended to show the Jewish people their need for salvation, not to serve as a checklist for earning favor with God.
Jesus cares deeply for those who are suffering and burdened, offering them hope and healing.
Coming to Jesus allows us to stop striving for perfection and find true rest.
Sound Bites
"The Christian life is easy."
"You must be perfect."
"He just cares."
Chapters
00:00 The Christian Life: A Personal Reflection
02:41 Understanding the Sermon on the Mount
06:30 The Depth of God's Requirements
11:04 Invitation to Rest in Christ
14:09 God's Grace and Invitation to Sinners
23:56 Jesus' Call to the Weary and Burdened
Keywords
Christianity, Charles Simeon, Paul, suffering, perseverance, gospel, ministry, weakness, faith, hope
Summary
This sermon explores the themes of perseverance in faith, the significance of suffering in the Christian life, and the power of weakness as exemplified by the lives of Charles Simeon and the Apostle Paul. It emphasizes that true strength comes from reliance on God, especially in times of trial, and that the Christian journey is marked by a cross before a crown.
Takeaways
The Christian life is not free from suffering. Charles Simeon's perseverance serves as an example for all.
Paul's authority was challenged, yet he remained steadfast.
Suffering can lead to greater reliance on God.The message of the gospel is unchanging and powerful.
Weakness can be a source of strength in ministry.True comfort comes from God during tribulations.
The Christian's boast is in Christ's sacrifice.
Our trials can manifest the life of Jesus in us.
Hope in the resurrection is essential for perseverance.
Sound Bites
"My grace is sufficient for you.""When I am weak, then I am strong.""
The power of God rests on us."
Chapters00:00 The Power of the Holy Spirit01:19 The Life of Charles Simeon06:53 Paul's Ministry and Suffering10:47 The Christian Life: Cross Before Crown24:19 The Treasure in Earthen Vessels31:15 Boasting in Weakness and Perseverance34:08
Keywords
prayer, redemption, resurrection, grace, gospel, transformation, faith, Christ, salvation, Easter
Takeaways
Prayer is essential for guidance and truth.
The story of the two brothers illustrates the journey of sin and redemption.
Redemption is possible through Christ, regardless of past mistakes.
Grace is a central theme in understanding our relationship with God.
The resurrection of Christ signifies a new beginning for believers.
The resurrection is not just a historical event but has global significance.
Christ's resurrection assures believers of eternal life and forgiveness.
The gospel offers hope and a relationship with God through faith in Christ.
All worldly achievements are insignificant compared to knowing Christ.
The call to follow Christ requires a willingness to let go of past identities.
Sound Bites
"Christ is risen. Christ is Lord."
"You don't have to die."
"Your sins are buried with Christ."
Chapters
00:00 Sermon Introduction and Text
01:17 The Story of Two Brothers
08:22 The Importance of Christ's Resurrection
23:19 The Good News of the Gospel
28:56 Invitation to Faith and Baptism
The Apostle Paul declares the gospel to the church at Rome. If God is rightfully wrathful and angry with the wicked every day (Psalm 7:11), then how can He pardon the wicked and let them walk free?
The risen Christ ascends to the Father's right hand and pours out the gift of His Holy Spirit to empower the church to advance His kingdom to the ends of the earth.
The eternal Word, God the Son, becomes flesh. Jesus came to save sinners, and to cast out Satan, the ruler of this world.
Luke tells about a Christ who is the perfect Son of Man and Son of God, who came to preach good news to the poor.
Mark presents the gospel of Jesus Christ, the powerful Son of God, and the suffering servant. Christ is far more powerful than any other being in all creation, and He has absolute authority. And yet His glory is not merely in His strength but in His willingness to use that strength to serve those too weak to save themselves.
Pastor Josh preaches through the book of Matthew. Matthew portrays Christ as the fulfillment of all the Scriptures, Israel's Messiah. You've heard about a Christ who loves you, but what about a Christ who calls you to repent?
God was faithful to bring Judah back from exile after 70 years through the proclamation of Cyrus king of Persia, but the returned exiles faced fierce opposition as they sought to rebuild Jerusalem. How this applies to the church today: the necessity to build with a trowel in one hand and a sword in the other.
The name of God is never mentioned in the book of Esther, but the story is a powerful testimony to the sovereign working of a loving Father who works all things, both good and bad, for the good of those who are in Christ Jesus.
Prayer is consistently the most neglected spiritual discipline in the life of the church, and yet it is the most powerful weapon the church has at her disposal to besiege the gates of hell. Christian, get yourself to the school of prayer.
What is the long-term vision for First Baptist Church? We want to be a multigenerational church that holds to a historic Baptist confession of faith, and that speaks to the issues of the day. Listen in to see if that's something you want to be a part of.
The state of the church is more important than the state of the union. On any important mission, it is important to stop and take stock of how far the expedition has come, how far there is yet to go, and what it will yet take to get there. This is the State of First Baptist Church.
When Nebuchadnezzar came to Jerusalem and besieged it and looted the Temple of the Lord, was God in control? Were the gods of Babylon stronger or wiser than Him? Would He still be able to bring His promises to pass? The story of Daniel is a great guide to help Christians live faithfully in our own exile under often tyrannical rulers, as we await the kingdom that is to come, when all is right.
So many have been to Christmas Eve kids' programs, but have you really gotten the full story about Christmas? Pastor Josh brings out some details you may not have known and drives home the main purpose of Christ's coming: to reconcile sinners to God.
Jeremiah the weeping prophet laments over the destruction of Jerusalem by Babylon. The fierce anger of God over unrepentant sin, and the encouragement to hope in the darkest day because of God's faithfulness and compassion in sending His Son to bear the curse we all deserve.
God ordained marriage between one man and one woman in order to display His glory to all the universe, and to show His wisdom in His divine plan to send His Son to fight and die for a bride He so loves.
Fog is something you can't see through, you can't grasp with your hands, and it can disappear or appear without warning. According to the Preacher in Ecclesiastes, life is a fog. It's frustrating and confusing; it's beyond our ability to fully comprehend; we're here one moment and gone the next. What is the meaning of life? Why did God make the world the way it is, and where do these truths lead us?
There are two paths you can take in life: the way of wisdom and the way of folly. Which will you choose? Written as to a young son, Proverbs portrays wisdom as a virtuous woman appealing to men to seek life and folly as a seductress seeking to lure men to destruction. Lady Wisdom cries aloud in the streets. Will you hear her call?
Ever heard a sermon from Job? It's in the Bible for a reason. Job teaches that all suffering in this broken world is not a consequence for some personal sin. Sometimes bad things just happen, and we don't know why. And we must trust the goodness of our sovereign God even when times are bad, knowing He will work all things for our good in the end, for those in Christ.
Israel sang the Psalms in worship, and many Protestant churches did the same at the time of the Reformation. But would you feel comfortable singing some of the things found in the Psalms? Psalm 1 and 2 set the tone for the whole Psalter, and you might be surprised what they say.
Ruth is an often overlooked book in Scripture; in fact, it’s so discreet that some secretly wonder why it’s even in the Bible. But Ruth is treasure trove of timeless truth and encouragement to Christians. It exalts a God who clings to His people with steadfast love, stays true to His word against all odds, and redeems His people from a debt they could never pay. Almost like a Hallmark movie, it is the story of a virtuous woman who moves to the country and finds security and shelter under the wings of a godly and capable man, who points to the Christ to come.
We're picking up our series preaching through the Bible one book each Sunday with Zechariah. Zechariah speaks of a Branch who is to come to rebuild the temple and cleanse Israel from sin once and for all.
Christians gather together to worship God every Sunday. But what really is worship, what should it look like, and how do we know if our worship is acceptable to God?
How does a church get the gospel out to the community? Pastor Josh pushes for an evangelistic culture in the church, for prayer for the lost, for boldness, and a willingness to be rejected.
A church without the gospel is no church at all. But what is the gospel? It is an elementary teaching in the Christian faith, and yet layman and pastors alike oftentimes lose clarity in understanding what the gospel is and what it isn't. Pastor Josh tries to clear away the weeds in this sermon. The gospel is nothing we have done or can do, but only what Christ has done for us.
Is there a place called hell? What is it like? And who goes there? Does anyone? Would a loving God send sinners to eternal torment, "where their worm does not die, and the fire is not quenched"? Pastor Josh adds up the Scriptural evidence, addresses false teaching about hell, and applies the teaching to the Christian life.
It's not the brightest time in the history of the world and many people right now are wondering where to find hope. While "heavenly tourism" has grown popular in recent years, with bestselling books and movies like Heaven is for Real, we should look to Scripture for answers about the age to come. Pastor Josh preached a sermon building on the Biblical details of the hope of heaven and the age to come this past Sunday, starting from the Garden in the beginning.
Final sermon in this series on First Baptist's founding documents. Church membership is important, and the way church members live is important. The blessings of church membership do not come without the duties of church membership.
The church is not just another social club. It is a miracle of God's grace, and Christ would have every Christian become a member of a local church. A membership covenant represents each member's pledge to serve the church body faithfully, and to serve Christ faithfully. It is a Christian's reasonable service.
As Christians, we must recognize that we are only human and frail, physically and spiritually. We have the treasure of the gospel in jars of clay, that God might show the surpassing greatness of His power at work in us. No one will enter eternal life by their own good works, because even our best works are tainted with sin. Christ alone is our hope in life and death.
Pastor continues preaching through the Preamble of First Baptist's Constitution. The mission of the church, to make disciples of Jesus Christ. The heritage of Baptist missions, and our part to play in it today.
As a Baptist church, we are not ashamed to say we believe Baptists are right about their beliefs. That doesn't mean we believe those who believe otherwise are not Christians. All those who truly believe in Jesus are justified and partakers of that universal body of Christ that spans all times and places, whoever calls on the name of the Lord. On the other hand, the problem with false Christians, false pastors, and false teaching. The need to make a distinction between the true faith and true Christians, and false faith and false Christians.
Christians do not believe that their own works earn them a right to eternal life. Christ finished the work of justification in the cross and in His resurrection. But that does not mean there is no work for the Christian to do. Our work as Christians is not the work of earning salvation but the work of proclaiming Christ's salvation, and if we will be effective witnesses, we must live holy lives.
Pastor Josh continues working through relevant portions of First Baptist's founding documents from 1903. How do members of this church pledge to live in response to the great salvation Christ has worked for them? The necessity of fellowship for the Christian life, and how we might grow in it. How much must we attend church, study, and give? Is that the right question to ask? The story of the pastor's cowboy hat.
An effective soldier must not only have his marching orders but understand them and know how to carry them out. First Baptist's mission is to make disciples of Jesus Christ. But what is a disciple, and how do we make them? Man's total depravity and helplessness to come to God apart from the power of the Holy Spirit.
Missional drift can be deadly to any venture. Columbus had to keep his crew on mission to reach the New World, and Lewis and Clark had to do the same to reach the Pacific Ocean. But what is the mission of the church?
Jesus teaches about the cost of discipleship. If anyone wants to be His disciple, He must deny Himself, take up His cross, and follow Him. Whoever wants to save His life will lose it, but whoever loses His life for Christ's sake will save it. What would it profit you to gain the whole world and lose your own soul? The cost of following Christ today.
Pastor Josh argues from the Scriptures that all believers are bound by command of Christ to join themselves to a particular local church. He talks about what a church really is, commands that do not make sense if the Christian life does not involve participation in Christian community, and instructions that we cannot obey apart from membership in a local church and submission to its leaders.
The Lord asks Israel if it is time for them to dwell in their paneled houses while His house lies in ruins. Haggai exhorts the exiles to be strong, do not fear, and rebuild the temple despite opposition, for God is with them. How the cares and concerns of this world may choke out the word of God and fruit we might bear to Him for eternal life. How people have become so busy with their own concerns in our day that they no longer show concern for the things of God and His church.
How does the anger and wrath of God in Zephaniah relate to His love? How Satan is behind evil in this world, and how Christ came to kill that ancient serpent called the Devil and Satan, and in so doing rescue His bride. The similarities between the pseudo-Christian word of faith movement, the occult, and "manifesting." How the Lord rejoices over His bride, the church, as a groom on his wedding day.
We oftentimes look around at the world and things don't seem right. Sometimes it seems the wicked prosper at the expense of those more righteous than them. There is much injustice. Habakkuk assures us that God will make all things right in the end, He will save those who are His, and the just shall indeed live by faith.
It is plain today that there is something very wrong with the world. With all of the negatives before our eyes every day in the news, it is natural to want to hear a different message that is positive and encouraging. But the Christian faith is more than simply being positive and encouraging and hoping for the best.
According to Paul, unless Christ is actually raised bodily from the dead, the Christian faith is completely worthless and powerless to save dying sinners in a dying world. But if Christ is raised, the gospel of Christ crucified is the power of God for salvation to all who believe.
Historical details on the death of Christ from Mark 15:16-32. Why Christ came, who He was, why He died, how He died, and what it means for mankind.
Nahum prophesies destruction for Nineveh, the same city God had mercy on in the book of Jonah. The Lord shows Himself wrathful and vengeful to pay Nineveh back for her sin and oppression of Israel. He will not at all acquit the wicked.
How Nahum relates to Palm Sunday and Jesus's triumphal entry, humble and riding a donkey, coming in peace. How we have all partaken of sin like Nineveh, and deserve wrath, but God in His great grace has come in Christ, with beautiful feet bearing good news.
Micah prophesies that the Lord is coming out of His place to tread on the high places of the earth. The mountains will melt beneath Him, and Zion will be plowed like a field. Yet there will be a glorious future in Mount Zion, and the nations will stream to it. God will cast all of His peoples' sins into the depths of the sea. Application: parallels between Micah's evil day and ours, including evil rulers. Seeing our sin in Israel's sin, and finding grace for new life in the cross of Christ.
Obadiah prophesies judgment for Edom for all of his grievous sins against Israel. Edom will be humbled and brought low, his familiar friends will betray him, he will be cut off by slaughter. He has gloated when the nations cast lots over Jerusalem when they were judged, and as he has done it will be done to him. The day of the LORD is coming on all nations, and they shall drink and be as though they had never been. But is there good news in Obadiah?
The image of Jesus as a meek and mild lamb sacrificed for sinners is well-known and cherished in the church today. But how often have you heard of the lion of the tribe of Judah? God must be both lion and lamb in order to be our savior. God the lion will devastate Israel for their sin, but He will not utterly destroy them, and He will ensure a glorious future for a remnant from Israel and the nations.
Missionary candidate Dan Soukup visited with his family and preached on the missionary heart of God from the parable of the Prodigal Son in Luke 15:11-31. God rejoices over sinners who repent and warmly welcomes those who repent and turn to Him. If we are living in sin, we should repent and receive God's forgiveness. If we have repented and turned to Christ, we should rejoice in our forgiveness and forsake sin more and more. And if we have received forgiveness and rejoice in it, we should join God in seeking other lost sinners and rejoicing in their repentance and salvation. See more about Dan and his mission at https://www.thesoukupfamily.com/
Joel prophesies that the Day of the Lord is coming when all things will be fulfilled, both the blessing and the curse. No mere man can endure this day which Joel says will come as "destruction from the Almighty." And so there is hope in the Lord and in Him only. How this text applies to the church today. The significance of the Lord telling Israel to rend their hearts and not their garments.
The LORD brought Israel out of Egypt to be His own people, but they have sinned in worshipping other gods and transgressing His law. So the LORD says He will no longer be their God, will no longer show them mercy, and says they will return to Egypt. He will tear them like a lion tears its prey. And yet, the number of Israel will be more in number than the sand on the sea. He will raise them from the dead on the third day.
Pastor Josh aims to provide vision for the coming year at First Baptist. Beginning with Acts 2:42, he challenges the church to grow in their devotion to the apostles' teaching, to fellowship, and prayer. Hope for a revitalized church.
Some of the history of First Baptist Church: planted by CH Rust in 1903. The beginning of the American Baptist church planting movement in Philadelphia in 1707. Baptists' commitment to sound teaching and the true gospel (1689 London Baptist Confession, pastoral training), and the spread of that gospel. What Baptists believe about baptism. The mission of the church: to make disciples of Jesus Christ. Why Jesus gave the church that Great Commission: those who do not believe in Christ will die in their sins.
Pastor and church consultant Brian Thorstad (https://helpingchurchesthrive.com/) preaches on the Two Abrahams. Why does it seem Romans 4 is speaking of a different Abraham than the sometimes bumbling and wayward Abraham in Genesis 12-22. How God graciously offers us a new permanent record by faith in Christ. The error of antinomianism. How we can grow in obedience to God over the course of our Christian life, just like Abraham did, out of gratitude for all God has done for the believer in Christ.
"God does nothing but in answer to prayer." James 4:2 says, "You do not have, because you do not ask." Jesus said in John 15:5 that apart from Him we can do nothing. God is a good Father who loves to give His children the good things we ask, when we pray according to His will. A pastor is vain to think he can preach so well that unbelievers will come to faith apart from earnest prayer, and a church is vain to think they can be effective in ministry apart from prayer. All true ministry is consecrated by prayer. "In every ministry, weighty for good, prayer has always been a serious business prophetic of good." We not only should pray more, but we must pray more.
There are many well-known and loved stories related to the Christmas season in one way or another, but the Biggest Story of Christmas, of history, and each of our lives is the story of God the Son born to take away the sins of the whole world. This is the biggest story; it is a true story. God the Son humbled Himself from the highest heaven to the lowest place, lower than a manger, and even to the grave, in love, to bury your sins and open a way to eternal life for all who believe.
Jesus is the long-awaited Messiah and Savior of the world, born of the virgin Mary, who came to save His people from their sins. Against our postmodern and relativistic world, Christians testify that Jesus is the only way, the only truth, the only life. God the Son came down from heaven to live the life we could never live and die the death we all deserve, so that all who believe in Him may have eternal life.
The LORD will hew down all the proud and lofty in the land as an axe hews down a forest. Israel will go into exile. Yet a rod will spring up from the stump of Jesse, and in Him not only Israel but people from every nation will find restoration and peace in a new creation. Application: The dark and disordered days we live in, changing times, our oppressive government, and finding hope and peace in Christ.
The LORD betrothed Israel to Himself, but they have committed harlotry and gone after other gods. Every blessing they have enjoyed will be stripped from them, Babylon will take them into exile, and God's presence will depart from the Temple. It seems Israel and their hope are as good as dead, but God promises resurrection from the dead. Application: Israel sinned because they were sinners and born dead in sin. The same is true of all men. There is only hope of resurrection and eternal life in Christ, because only Christ has kept God's law.
Jeremiah foretells doom coming on Judah for breaking the covenant from Sinai and committing harlotry, but he also foretells the coming of a new covenant with better promises. Application: Some ways in which professing Christians commit harlotry in our day, false prophets in our time, the problem of man's sinful heart, and justification and life by faith alone in Christ alone.
David's son Solomon ascends to the throne in Israel and in his great wisdom leads Israel to a golden age of dominion and prosperity. However, Solomon does not wholly follow the LORD, and in his latter years bows down to other gods. The kingdom is torn, Israel is divided, and eventually both Judah and Israel go into exile. Israel has broken God's word, and yet God will be true to His word of promise and send His Son, and David will never lack a man on the throne of Israel.
In the book of Judges, there was no king in Israel, and everyone didwhat was right in his own eyes. In the book of Samuel, God raises up David the son of Jesse to slay Goliath and eventually sit on thethrone of Israel. Yet David is not the Son God promised in Genesis.It is the throne of his son after him that will be establishedforever.
Israel sins against the LORD, but He raises up judges to deliver them. Nevertheless, the recurring theme of this book is: "In those days there was no king in Israel. Everyone did what was right in their own eyes." Is there a king in the Protestant church today, or is everyone just doing what's right in their own eyes?
Joshua leads Israel in to conquer the land of Canaan. They leave nothing breathing in Jericho. But can Israel conquer the sin in their own hearts, and is Joshua the one who will give them lasting rest and peace?
The LORD renews the covenant with Israel from Mount Sinai. Moses prophesies Israel's rebellion against the covenant and their exile from the land, but he also prophesies of a coming Prophet like him, to whom they must listen.
The book of Numbers continues the story of the faithful and gracious God who keeps His promises of land and offspring to His people. The LORD prepares Israel for battle to take the Promised Land of Canaan and turns their enemies' curses to blessings despite the nation's sin and rebellion.
Pastor Josh continues this series through the Bible with Leviticus. What's with all the laws and ordinances in Leviticus, the Tabernacle, and the sacrifices and washings? Could Israel expect to keep this law for eternal life? Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to all who believe.
The book of Exodus continues the story begun in Genesis, of the offspring of the woman who will crush the head of the serpent. How God fulfills His word time and again, how Pharaoh shows he is of the seed of the serpent, and how the LORD accomplishes an initial fulfillment of the crushing of the serpent in judging Pharaoh and his army at the Red Sea. How God begins to make a way to restore and perfect the communion Adam and Eve enjoyed with Him in Eden.
Pastor Josh opens a new sermon series called Through the Bible at 36,000 ft. In this series, he will preach through one complete book of the Bible each Sunday, in order, providing a flyover view of the book. Churchgoers often hear topical sermons, or hear expositions of several verses at a time, but what is the whole story of the Bible, and how do the different books fit together? Pastor Josh aims to show how in this series, beginning with Genesis, which sets the stage for the rest of the Biblical story in revealing God's promise of a Son who will crush the head of the serpent.
In our day it still seems to be common knowledge that the Christian God is Trinity. He is Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. But how did the early church come to terms with the claims of Jesus and His resurrection and arrive at this conclusion? And what does it really mean to say God is Trinity? Application: Christianity is Triune at its very foundation. How should this truth impact our Christian life, and the life of a church?
So many seem to think of God only in His anger. Jonathan Edwards’ famous sermon was not called Sinners in the Hands of a Happy God. But if you search the Scriptures carefully, you will find that they clearly portray a very happy God. They tell us of a blessed God, perfectly happy in Himself, with no lack of any good thing, and no lack of any enjoyment of every ounce of overflowing goodness in His divinity. He is a God who rejoices before the angels, and even rejoices with loud singing. How people are unhappy and despairing in our world today. Pastor Josh's own story of despair in his life. The world's need for the blood of Christ.
The typical god presented from the pulpits of America today is a mild grandfather above the clouds who sweeps sin under the rug and receives men into eternal life as long as they try their best to be nice to people and say they're sorry for their sin. Pastor Josh explains that God requires far more, that all have fallen short of His requirement, and therefore all deserve the terrors of His wrath, not eternal life. If this is true, how can anyone escape the wrath of God? Listen in to hear.
Is God good? Pastor Josh seeks to answer this fundamental question of human life and religion. Scripture says that only God is good, but if only God is good, then man is not. So how can anyone be saved and enjoy life?
If God is high and lofty and set apart from man in stature, power, and purity, how can man draw near to him and be saved? Pastor Josh explains that Scripture teaches both the transcendence of God and the nearness of God, in His great mercy. God is merciful to those in misery in their sin.
So many today are so enamored with the stars of music, acting, and athletics. People young and old idolize celebrities in their glitz and glory and treat them as more than royal. The Bible teaches that God excels all men in glory and majesty, and even everything in the earth and the heavens. We exchange the glory of God for idols to our own hurt. Only in Christ is there hope of life and glory.
God is present everywhere, all the time. God sees all things, whether words, deeds, or thoughts. Why this is comforting for the believer and terrifying for the unbeliever. Salvation in the cross of Christ, and the free offer of the gospel of grace to all men.
How contemporary professing Christians often depict God as a "nervous, ingratiating God fawning over men to win their favor." Are professing Christians emphasizing the grace and compassion of God at the expense of His power and authority? Nothing is too hard for the Lord.
In our world, change is the only constant. But down through the ages Christians have confessed that their God is absolutely unchanging. Application: does God change from the OT to the NT? Has God changed since the close of the NT? Did covid change the necessity of the Sunday gathering of God's people for worship?
Pastor Josh introduces a new series on the attributes of God, seeking to answer the questions: 1) Who is God? 2) What is God like?
Pastor Josh asserts it is the historic confession of the Christian church that God's existence is provable by reasoning from nature. He makes the argument for God's existence from creation, proving God exists. He also claims that all men know that God exists, and because they as rational creatures know that God exists, they are guilty and liable to condemnation because they have fallen short of God's glory and sinned. The consequent necessity of spreading the gospel to the ends of the earth.
The Apostle Paul closes his letter by affirming the Philippians' gift for his need, assuring them of God's supply for their need, and sending greetings from all the church, including those of Caesar's household.
Paul rejoices in the Philippians' renewed care for him, although he says he does not speak of being in need, though in chains. Paul has learned in whatever situation to be content, saying he could do all things through Christ who strengthens him. Misconceptions of God related to these verses. Finding contentment in God in the midst of evil, and in prosperity.
Paul instructs Christians to think on virtues such as things that are just, noble, lovely, and excellent. Pastor Josh explains the historic Christian understanding of virtue as the right ordering of love, with help from Augustine of Hippo, and comments on the example of John Adams, America's second President. Lastly, can man attain to virtue and bliss by his own working?
The Apostle Paul writes to the Philippians from prison to remind them to rejoice in the Lord always, to let their gentleness be known to all men, and to pray rather than be anxious. Applying this text to the current cultural situation.
Pastor Josh continues his exposition of the book of Philippians. The apostle Paul urges the Philippians to follow his example in walking in the way of Christ and His cross, and warns them of those who make themselves enemies of the cross of Christ, who make their god their belly, and who glory in their shame. How we see this happening in our time in rampant sexual immorality, including homosexuality and transexuality. How it is a theological problem.
Christians, justified by faith alone in Christ alone, press toward the goal of the resurrection and to lay hold of Christ with Olympic strivings, for the glory of Christ who laid hold of them.
Pastor Josh preaches an Easter Sunday sermon from Matthew's account of the resurrection. Why did the risen Christ tell His disciples not to be afraid?
Paul considers all of his merits and good deeds filth in order to gain Christ, not having his own righteousness from a covenant of works, but the righteousness which is from God by faith in Christ.
Paul again exhorts the church to rejoice in the Lord in the midst of their trials. Pastor Josh explains why it is Christians above all people who can rejoice and remain steadfast in the evils of the day, including government corruption. Paul also warns the church of false teachers, whom he calls dogs, evil workers, and mutilaters of the flesh. Why does Paul use such harsh language against these teachers, and is there a place for such language in the Christian life?
Paul, Timothy, and Epaphroditus demonstrate the mind of Christ in pouring out their lives for the faith of the gospel.
In light of the excellency of Christ, His condescension and exaltation--freely leaving heaven to go to hell and back for His church--how should Christians live? Paul commands believers to work out their salvation with fear and trembling and live blameless and harmless lives, shining as lights in a dark world.
The mind of Christ, displayed in His living and suffering in order to purchase the grace of justification, life, and glory for all who believe.
Pastor Josh continues his exposition of Philippians. What does it mean for the church to be like-minded? What does it mean to consider others' interests as well as your own? Does Christianity teach that self-interest is sinful?
Christians need not fear death and are therefore free to live as citizens worthy of the gospel of Christ. What kind of adversaries the Christian should expect, and how to respond. How governments in the West are becoming more adversarial to the gospel of Christ and His church.
The Apostle Paul provides the reason for his rejoicing in Christ, in spite of his imprisonment for the gospel.
The third sermon in Pastor Josh's exposition of the book of Philippians. God makes evil turn for good as Paul's imprisonment causes the gospel to advance further still. Application: Christians rejoice with Paul in the advance of the gospel of Christ in the face of evil, but do we all mean the same thing when we say the word "gospel"?