North Bryant Baptist Church: Recent Episodes
North Bryant
At North Bryant Baptist Church, we strive to worship God in Spirit and in truth and to learn more about Him by honestly studying His Word. On this podcast, you will find many of the messages preached from the pulpit of North Bryant, primarily from Pastor Matt Thornton, as well as our Associate Pastors Connor Harris and Doug Burch.
Series: The Revelation of Jesus ChristScripture: Revelation 6:1-8Message Focus: Difficult times are coming upon this world, but Jesus Christ is in control. Speaker: Matt Thornton, PastorDate: June 16, 2024
Scripture: 2 Samuel 7:1-17; Acts 2:22-36
Focus: The resurrection of Jesus Christ is necessary for David’s kingdom to last forever.
This message is part of our 2024 Vacation Bible School lesson series, entitled, “the Road to Emmaus.”
On the Road to Emmaus, Jesus explained to two disciples the prophecies in the Old Testament that were about Him. We are not told what specific examples Jesus used, but we will look at five of the passages He might have taught.
We will see how the Son of God suffered as our substitute and rose as our King.
Speaker: Matt Thornton
Date: 06/12/24
Scripture: Genesis 22:1-14; John 1:35; John 3:16; Hebrews 11:17-19
Focus: Just as God provided a ram to die in Isaac’s place, He has provided His own Son to die in ours and take the punishment for our sin.
This message is part of our 2024 Vacation Bible School lesson series, entitled, “the Road to Emmaus.”
On the Road to Emmaus, Jesus explained to two disciples the prophecies in the Old Testament that were about Him. We are not told what specific examples Jesus used, but we will look at five of the passages He might have taught.
We will see how the Son of God suffered as our substitute and rose as our King.
Speaker: Matt Thornton
Date: 06/11/24
Scripture: Isaiah 53
Focus: Before He was the exalted Servant of Yahweh, Jesus suffered in His earthly life and death.
This message is part of our 2024 Vacation Bible School lesson series, entitled, “the Road to Emmaus.”
On the Road to Emmaus, Jesus explained to two disciples the prophecies in the Old Testament that were about Him. We are not told what specific examples Jesus used, but we will look at five of the passages He might have taught.
We will see how the Son of God suffered as our substitute and rose as our King.
Speaker: Matt Thornton
Date: 06/10/24
Scripture: Genesis 1:26-31; 2:4-8; 3:1-19; Luke 1:26-38; Romans 5:12-21
Focus: The first Adam plunged humanity into sin and death; the second Adam, Jesus Christ, rescues us and gives life.
This message is part of our 2024 Vacation Bible School lesson series, entitled, “the Road to Emmaus.”
On the Road to Emmaus, Jesus explained to two disciples the prophecies in the Old Testament that were about Him. We are not told what specific examples Jesus used, but we will look at five of the passages He might have taught.
We will see how the Son of God suffered as our substitute and rose as our King.
Speaker: Matt Thornton
Date: 06/09/24
Scripture: Luke 24:13-48.
Focus: The Old Testament prophesied that God’s Son would suffer as our substitute and be raised as our King.
This message is part of our 2024 Vacation Bible School lesson series, entitled, “the Road to Emmaus.”
On the Road to Emmaus, Jesus explained to two disciples the prophecies in the Old Testament that were about Him. We are not told what specific examples Jesus used, but we will look at five of the passages He might have taught.
We will see how the Son of God suffered as our substitute and rose as our King.
Speaker: Matt Thornton
Date: 06/09/24
Series: The Revelation of Jesus ChristScripture: Revelation 5:8-14Message Focus: Jesus is worthy of worship. Speaker: Matt Thornton, PastorDate: June 02, 2024
Series: The Revelation of Jesus ChristScripture: Revelation 5:1-7Message Focus: Jesus is the only one worthy to fulfill God's plan for the world. Speaker: Matt Thornton, PastorDate: May 26, 2024
Series: The Revelation of Jesus ChristScripture: Revelation 4:8-11Message Focus: God deserves our worship because He is the holy, omnipotent, eternal Creator. Speaker: Matt Thornton, PastorDate: May 19, 2024
Series: The Revelation of Jesus Christ
Scripture: Revelation 4:1-7
Message Focus: No matter what happens on earth, God is always one His throne and is always in complete control.
Speaker: Matt Thornton, Pastor
Date: May 12, 2024
Series: The Revelation of Jesus ChristScripture: Revelation 3:14-22Message Focus: An arrogant, self-sufficient church disgusts the Lord. Speaker: Matt Thornton, PastorDate: May 5, 2024
Series: The Revelation of Jesus Christ
Scripture: Revelation 3:7-13
Message Focus: Jesus is the only one with the authority to grant or deny access to God's eternal kingdom.
Speaker: Matt Thornton, Pastor
Date: April 28, 2024
Series: The Revelation of Jesus Christ
Scripture: Revelation 3:1-6
Message Focus: Jesus gave a stern warning to the church in Sardis who had the appearance of righteousness but was actually dead – while also giving encouragement to those who continued living faithfully.
Speaker: Matt Thornton, Associate Pastor
Date: April 21, 2024
Series: The Revelation of Jesus Christ
Scripture: Revelation 2:18-29
Message Focus: No amount of goodness in other areas justifies the toleration or practice of sin.
Speaker: Doug Burch, Associate Pastor
Date: April 14, 2024
Series: The Revelation of Jesus Christ
Scripture: Revelation 2:12-17
Message Focus: No amount of zeal against idolatry is an excuse for a church's compromise in the area of morality and conscience. But we who have been saved should also be encouraged that we have rewards waiting in heaven.
Speaker: Doug Burch, Associate Pastor
Date: April 7, 2024
Series: The Revelation of Jesus Christ
Scripture: Revelation 2:8-11
Message Focus: We must be faithful unto death because Jesus Christ died for us and lives forevermore.
Speaker: Matt Thornton, Pastor
Date: March 31, 2024
Series: The Revelation of Jesus Christ
Scripture: Revelation 2:1-7
Message Focus: A church's tireless work and endurance are not a substitute for genuine love, but should be its fruit.
Speaker: Connor Harris, Associate Pastor
Date: March 24, 2024
This sermon segment is taken from Dr. Matt Thornton's sermon in 2 Thessalonians 1:11-12, "Living in Anticipation."
Series: The Revelation of Jesus Christ
Scripture: Revelation 1:9-20
Message Focus: Jesus has authority to judge North Bryant Baptist Church; may His glory always be our focus.
Speaker: Matt Thornton, Pastor
Date: March 17, 2024
Series: The Revelation of Jesus Christ
Scripture: Revelation 1:4-8
Message Focus: No matter what happens in your life and in this world, the Almighty God offers grace and peace through His Son, Jesus Christ.
Speaker: Matt Thornton, Pastor
Date: March 10, 2024
Series: The Revelation of Jesus Christ
Scripture: Revelation 1:1-3
Message Focus: God will bless us for reading, listening to, and keeping the words of Revelation. So, let’s approach this study seriously.
Speaker: Matt Thornton, Pastor
Date: March 3, 2024
Text: Genesis 1 - Revelation 22.
Message Summary: Before God created the universe, His plan to forgive sins and redeem people back to Himself centered around the death and resurrection of His Son, Jesus Christ.
– “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23).
– “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 6:23).
This message also serves as a prologue to the sermon series through The Book of Revelation.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker
Sermon Date: February 25, 2024
Scripture: Acts 3-4
Focus: Just as it was in the infancy of the New Testament church, there is no other name by when people are saved than the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth.
Associate Pastor, Doug Burch, Speaker
Date: 02/18/24
Scripture: Daniel 3
Message Focus: "If God does not deliver you from a trial, He will still be with you through it."
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker
02/11/24
Message Focus: Strive for unwavering faithfulness to God.
Scripture: Daniel 6:1-28
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker
Archive Date: 02/04/24
Message Focus: Resolve to honor God before you are faced with challenges.Scripture: Daniel 1Pastor Matt Thornton, SpeakerArchive Date: 01/28/24
Message Focus: God is provident globally and personally.
Scripture: Ezra 1:1-11
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker
Archive Date: 01/21/24
Message Focus: Public prayers should be short, humble, and universal.
Scripture: Matthew 6:7-15
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker
Archive Date: 01/14/24
Message Focus: We should pray to receive the peace of God, not the praise of men.
Scripture: Matthew 6:5-6; Philippians 4:6-7
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker
Archive Date: 01/07/24
In the midst of his trail, David still found the lovingkindness and faithfulness of God as reason to praise Him, trust Him, and fear Him. He focused his heart on God. So we too must focus our heart on fearing God.
Scripture: Psalm 86:1-17
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 12/31/23
Series: "THE TEN COMMANDMENTS" – Ten Words that Glorify God, Defend Human Rights, and Point to Christ.
Message Focus: Jesus Christ was born under the Law to redeem those who were under the Law.
Scripture: Galatians 3:21-4:7
Speaker: Matt Thornton, Pastor
Archive Date: 12/24/23
Series: "THE TEN COMMANDMENTS" – Ten Words that Glorify God, Defend Human Rights, and Point to Christ.
Message Focus: How quickly we fail God, but He never fails us.
Scripture: Exodus 32:1-35
Speaker: Matt Thornton, Pastor
Archive Date: 12/17/23
Series: "THE TEN COMMANDMENTS" – Ten Words that Glorify God, Defend Human Rights, and Point to Christ.
Message Focus: Never covet; instead, always be content.
Scripture: Exodus 20:18-21 Speaker: Matt Thornton, Pastor
Archive Date: 12/10/23
Series: "THE TEN COMMANDMENTS" – Ten Words that Glorify God, Defend Human Rights, and Point to Christ. Message Focus: Never covet; instead, always be content. Scripture: Exodus 20:17 Speaker: Matt Thornton, Pastor Archive Date: 12/03/23
Scriptures: Proverbs 29:18; Romans 6:15-23 Message Focus: God has given us His Word to follow to restrain us from destruction and lead us to blessing. Associate Pastor Connor Harris, Speaker This sermon was preached on 26 November 2023.
Series: "THE TEN COMMANDMENTS" – Ten Words that Glorify God, Defend Human Rights, and Point to Christ. Message Focus: God always tells the truth and so should you. Scripture: Exodus 20:16 Speaker: Matt Thornton, Pastor Archive Date: 11/19/23
Series: "THE TEN COMMANDMENTS" – Ten Words that Glorify God, Defend Human Rights, and Point to Christ.
Message Focus: Stealing not only hurts other people, but it is Las contrary to the loving and giving nature of God.
Scripture: Exodus 20:15
Speaker: Matt Thornton, Pastor
Archive Date: 11/12/23
Series: "THE TEN COMMANDMENTS" – Ten Words that Glorify God, Defend Human Rights, and Point to Christ.
Message Focus:
1) The sin of adultery is serious because it hurts families and mars an important picture of the Gospel.
2) Praise the Lord for His incredible forgiveness!
Scripture: Exodus 20:14
Speaker: Matt Thornton, Pastor
Archive Date: 11/05/23
Series: "THE TEN COMMANDMENTS" – Ten Words that Glorify God, Defend Human Rights, and Point to Christ.
Message Focus: Never commit murder; but realize it takes more than never committing murder to be righteous before God.
Scripture: Exodus 20:13
Speaker: Matt Thornton, Pastor
Archive Date: 10/29/23
Series: "THE TEN COMMANDMENTS" – Ten Words that Glorify God, Defend Human Rights, and Point to Christ.
Message Focus: Honoring your parents is something you never outgrow.
Scripture: Exodus 20:12
Speaker: Matt Thornton, Pastor
Archive Date: 10/15/23
Series: "THE TEN COMMANDMENTS" – Ten Words that Glorify God, Defend Human Rights, and Point to Christ.
Message Focus: Enjoy the freedom and rest that Jesus Christ brings.
Scripture: Exodus 20:8-11
Speaker: Matt Thornton, Pastor
Archive Date: 10/08/23
Series: "THE TEN COMMANDMENTS" – Ten Words that Glorify God, Defend Human Rights, and Point to Christ.
Message Focus: Do not misrepresent Christ in your life.
Scripture: Exodus 20:7
Speaker: Matt Thornton, Pastor
Archive Date: 10/01/23
This is a re-upload of a previous message from the lesson series "The Dangers of Idolatry" presented by Connor Harris. This has been reissued to correspond with the latest Sermon Series on The Ten Commandments.
Selected Scriptures from Hosea, Micah, and Isaiah.
Associate Pastor Connor Harris, Speaker.
Originally recorded, 30 September 2020.
Series: "THE TEN COMMANDMENTS" – Ten Words that Glorify God, Defend Human Rights, and Point to Christ.
Message Focus: 1) Since the universe cannot contain the true God, we could never capture him with a created image. 2) Guard your hearts to ensure that no idol dethrones God from the most prioritized place in your life.
Scripture: Exodus 20:4-6
Speaker: Matt Thornton, Pastor
Archive Date: 09/24/23
Series: "THE TEN COMMANDMENTS" – Ten Words that Glorify God, Defend Human Rights, and Point to Christ. Message Focus: Jesus Christ has no rival in the universe; He should have no rival in your heart. Scripture: Exodus 20:3 Speaker: Matt Thornton, Pastor Archive Date: 09/17/23
Series: "THE TEN COMMANDMENTS" – Ten Words that Glorify God, Defend Human Rights, and Point to Christ.
Message Focus: The commandments of God are both authoritative and valid.
Scripture: Exodus 20:1-2
Speaker: Matt Thornton, Pastor
Archive Date: 09/10/23
Series: "THE TEN COMMANDMENTS" – Ten Words that Glorify God, Defend Human Rights, and Point to Christ.
Message Focus: God's holy presence is threatening to sinners; therefore, we must obediently prepare to be near Him.
Scripture: Exodus 19
Speaker: Matt Thornton, Pastor
Archive Date: 09/03/23
Series: "THE TEN COMMANDMENTS" – Ten Words that Glorify God, Defend Human Rights, and Point to Christ.
Message Focus: Be thankful for the incredible patience of God in your life.
Scripture: Exodus 15:22-18:27
Speaker: Matt Thornton, Pastor
Archive Date: 08/27/23
Series: "THE TEN COMMANDMENTS" – Ten Words that Glorify God, Defend Human Rights, and Point to Christ.
Message Focus: When there appears to be no escape from a trial, stand firm and unafraid because God is with you.
Scripture: Exodus 13-15
Speaker: Matt Thornton, Pastor
Archive Date: 08/20/23
Series: "THE TEN COMMANDMENTS" – Ten Words that Glorify God, Defend Human Rights, and Point to Christ.
Message Focus: In the midst of destructive judgement, God mercifully delivered those who trusted in Him.
Scripture: Exodus 5-12
Speaker: Matt Thornton, Pastor
Archive Date: 08/13/23
Series: "THE TEN COMMANDMENTS" – Ten Words that Glorify God, Defend Human Rights, and Point to Christ.
Message Focus: Exodus 1-4
Scripture: When your life is a struggle, that does not mean God is unaware or uncaring.
Speaker: Matt Thornton, Pastor
Archive Date: 08/06/23
Series: "THE TEN COMMANDMENTS" – Ten Words that Glorify God, Defend Human Rights, and Point to Christ.
Message Focus: God’s sovereign love can turn man’s evil intentions into something good.
Scripture: Genesis 37-50
Speaker: Matt Thornton, Pastor
Archive Date: 07/30/23
Sermon segment from the sermon: "Discovering and Embracing a Suffering Saviour" from the series on entitled "From Bethlehem to Jerusalem" on the life of Christ (Matthew 16:13-28).
From the sermon: "The Invitation of a Divisive Figure" from the series on entitled "From Bethlehem to Jerusalem" onthe life of Christ (John 7).
Message Challenge: When you are blessed, do not forget the One who blessed you.
Scripture: Deuteronomy 6:10-12
Speaker: Matt Thornton, Pastor
Archive Date: 07/23/23
Message Challenge: Do you have the heart of Christ for people who are different from you?
Scripture: John 4:1-42.
Speaker: Matt Thornton, Pastor
Archive Date: 07/16/23
Message Challenge: Be thankful that God is so patient with sinners, but be warned that He will bring judgment when it is time.
Scripture: Amos 7:1-9.
Speaker: Matt Thornton, Pastor
Archive Date: 07/09/23
Message Challenge: Living a pure life that pleases God requires following the Bible.
Scripture: Psalm 119:9-16.
Speaker: Matt Thornton, Pastor
Archive Date: 07/02/23
Message Focus: Since God has qualified you and brought you into His kingdom, act like it.
Scripture: Colossians 1:9-14
Speaker: Matt Thornton, Pastor
Archive Date: 06/25/23
Focus: In the same way that God appointed Ezekiel as a spiritual watchman to warn the house of Israel of impending danger, God has appointed pastors to warn God's churches of impending spiritual dangers; dangers for which all Christians must be ready and watching.
Scripture: Ezekiel 3:17-21; 33
Speaker: Doug Burch, Associate Pastor
Archive Date: 06/18/23
Focus: The Lord is uniquely worthy of our praise, for no other god has reached so low to help the helpless.
Scripture: Psalm 113.
Speaker: Connor Harris, Associate Pastor
Archive date: 06/11/23
VBS 2023 Focus: During Vacation Bible School 2023, we are studying the "I AM" statements of Jesus from the Gospel of John. Each of these statements made by our Lord points to His deity as well as showing His love for us. Each shows how only Jesus saves, reveals, protects, gives life, and sustains.
Scripture: John 15:1-8
Speaker: Matt Thornton, Pastor
Archive Date: 06/08/23
VBS 2023 Focus: During Vacation Bible School 2023, we are studying the "I AM" statements of Jesus from the Gospel of John. Each of these statements made by our Lord points to His deity as well as showing His love for us. Each shows how only Jesus saves, reveals, protects, gives life, and sustains.
Scripture: John 11
Speaker: Matt Thornton, Pastor
Archive Date: 06/07/23
VBS 2023 Focus: During Vacation Bible School 2023, we are studying the "I AM" statements of Jesus from the Gospel of John. Each of these statements made by our Lord points to His deity as well as showing His love for us. Each shows how only Jesus saves, reveals, protects, gives life, and sustains.
Scripture: John 10:1-21
Speaker: Matt Thornton, Pastor
Archive Date: 06/06/23
VBS 2023 Focus: During Vacation Bible School 2023, we are studying the "I AM" statements of Jesus from the Gospel of John. Each of these statements made by our Lord points to His deity as well as showing His love for us. Each shows how only Jesus saves, reveals, protects, gives life, and sustains.
Scripture: John 8:12-21
Speaker: Matt Thornton, Pastor
Archive Date: 06/05/23
VBS 2023 Focus: During Vacation Bible School 2023, we are studying the "I AM" statements of Jesus from the Gospel of John. Each of these statements made by our Lord points to His deity as well as showing His love for us. Each shows how only Jesus saves, reveals, protects, gives life, and sustains.
Scripture: John 6.
Speaker: Matt Thornton, Pastor
Archive Date: 06/04/23
VBS 2023 Focus: During Vacation Bible School 2023, we are studying the "I AM" statements of Jesus from the Gospel of John. Each of these statements made by our Lord points to His deity as well as showing His love for us. Each shows how only Jesus saves, reveals, protects, gives life, and sustains.
Scripture: John 13:36-14:6.
Speaker: Matt Thornton, Pastor
Archive Date: 06/04/23
Scripture: John 13:21-35
Message Focus: Let love prove the genuineness of your discipleship instead of letting sinful actions betray who you claim to be.
Archive Date: 5/28/23
Speaker: Dr. Ruben Moreno.
Scripture: Philippians 3:13-14.
The apostle Paul had many difficult things in his past that He could have dwelled upon, but he instead chose to forget those things and focus on what lies ahead. He exhorts the believers of the Philippine church, and us today, to do the very same: to forget those things which are behind, and to focus on those things which are ahead.
Scripture: 2 Timothy 3:16.
Message Focus: The Bible wholly equips you (and our church) to do the will of God.
Scripture: 2 Peter 1:19-21 and Selected Scriptures
Message Focus: God’s Word is not limited to a certain language or translation. Regardless of what English translation of the Bible you prefer, be sure to translate its teachings into your life.
SERMON CHALLENGES
1) Be amazed at how God’s providence worked to put our hands on His Word in a language that we understand.
2) Be thankful for men who suffered persecution and died so that we could have a Bible in English.
3) Pray for people across the world who do not have a Bible or live in places where it is illegal to own one.
Sermon Focus: We must not hold our faith in Christ with an attitude of favoritism, but instead we must show the love of Christ to all.
Scripture: James 2:1-13
Speaker: Duane Cooper
Archive Date: 04/30/23
From Bethlehem to Jerusalem: A Survey of the Life of Christ.
Jesus Christ only lived 33 years on earth and died a few miles from where He was born, yet His life and death changed the world. Has He changed you? Join us on this journey from Bethlehem to Jerusalem, as we follow the Lord from His birth to His resurrection, preaching some of the most amazing events recorded in Scripture.
Scripture: Acts 1:1-11; Matthew 28:16-20
Message Focus: Our purpose is to make disciples until Jesus comes again.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 04/23/23
Sermon Segment – from the sermon: "Who Holds Tomorrow" (James 4:13-17).
North Bryant has been blessed by God to have Matt Thornton serving as lead pastor for ten years (as of April 2023). In this sermon clip, you will hear Matt briefly illustrate the Sovereignty of God by telling the story of how God changed his life as a young man by calling him to preach and then calling him as the pastor of North Bryant.
We love you deeply, Bro. Matt!
From Bethlehem to Jerusalem: A Survey of the Life of Christ.
Jesus Christ only lived 33 years on earth and died a few miles from where He was born, yet His life and death changed the world. Has He changed you? Join us on this journey from Bethlehem to Jerusalem, as we follow the Lord from His birth to His resurrection, preaching some of the most amazing events recorded in Scripture.
Scripture: Luke 24:13-35, John 20:19-21:25
Message Focus: Live out your faith that Jesus has been resurrected by following Him in your life.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 04/16/23
From Bethlehem to Jerusalem: A Survey of the Life of Christ.
Jesus Christ only lived 33 years on earth and died a few miles from where He was born, yet His life and death changed the world. Has He changedyou? Join us on this journey from Bethlehem to Jerusalem, as we follow the Lord from His birth to His resurrection, preaching some of the most amazing events recorded in Scripture.
Scripture: The resurrection of Jesus Christ is not only the most significant eventin His life but also in the history of the whole world.
Message Focus: Selected Scriptures from John 19, Matthew 27-28, Mark 16, and 1 Corinthians 15
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 04/09/23
From Bethlehem to Jerusalem: A Survey of the Life of Christ.
Jesus Christ only lived 33 years on earth and died a few miles from where He was born, yet His life and death changed the world. Has He changed you? Join us on this journey from Bethlehem to Jerusalem, as we follow the Lord from His birth to His resurrection, preaching some of the most amazing events recorded in Scripture.
Scripture: Matthew 27; Luke 23; John 19
Message Focus: The sinless Son of God died for you.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 04/02/23
From Bethlehem to Jerusalem: A Survey of the Life of Christ.
Jesus Christ only lived 33 years on earth and died a few miles from where He was born, yet His life and death changed the world. Has He changed you? Join us on this journey from Bethlehem to Jerusalem, as we follow the Lord from His birth to His resurrection, preaching some of the most amazing events recorded in Scripture.
Scripture: John 18-19, Matthew 26
Message Focus: The perfect Lamb of God submitted to an unfair arrest and unjust trials because He was your only hope.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 03/26/23
From Bethlehem to Jerusalem: A Survey of the Life of Christ.
Jesus Christ only lived 33 years on earth and died a few miles from where He was born, yet His life and death changed the world. Has He changedyou? Join us on this journey from Bethlehem to Jerusalem, as we follow the Lord from His birth to His resurrection, preaching some of the most amazing events recorded in Scripture.
Scripture: John 15:18-25; 17:14-19
Message Focus: Christians must embrace the ministry of their Master, Who willingly served a world that hates Him.
Associate Pastor Connor Harris, Speaker.
Archive Date: 03/19/23
From Bethlehem to Jerusalem: A Survey of the Life of Christ.
Jesus Christ only lived 33 years on earth and died a few miles from where He was born, yet His life and death changed the world. Has He changed you? Join us on this journey from Bethlehem to Jerusalem, as we follow the Lord from His birth to His resurrection, preaching some of the most amazing events recorded in Scripture.
Scripture: Mark 11:27-12:37.
Message Focus: No question, scenario, or situation is too difficult for Jesus to answer perfectly because He is God clothed in flesh.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 03/12/23
From Bethlehem to Jerusalem: A Survey of the Life of Christ.
Jesus Christ only lived 33 years on earth and died a few miles from where He was born, yet His life and death changed the world. Has He changed you? Join us on this journey from Bethlehem to Jerusalem, as we follow the Lord from His birth to His resurrection, preaching some of the most amazing events recorded in Scripture.
Scripture: Mark 11:1-21
Message Focus: When Jesus arrived in Jerusalem during "The Triumphal Entry," fulfilling prophecy found in Zechariah 9, the people falsely thought He was going to set up His earthly Kingdom then and there. However, He had other lessons to teach them about worship.
Associate Pastor Doug Burch, Speaker.
Archive Date: 03/05/23
From Bethlehem to Jerusalem: A Survey of the Life of Christ.
Jesus Christ only lived 33 years on earth and died a few miles from where He was born, yet His life and death changed the world. Has He changed you? Join us on this journey from Bethlehem to Jerusalem, as we follow the Lord from His birth to His resurrection, preaching some of the most amazing events recorded in Scripture.
Scripture: Luke 15
Message Focus: When a sinner receives God’s mercy, are you jealous or joyful?
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 02/26/23
From Bethlehem to Jerusalem: A Survey of the Life of Christ.
Jesus Christ only lived 33 years on earth and died a few miles from where He was born, yet His life and death changed the world. Has He changed you? Join us on this journey from Bethlehem to Jerusalem, as we follow the Lord from His birth to His resurrection, preaching some of the most amazing events recorded in Scripture.
Scripture: John 7.
Message Focus: In a world where there is no consensus about Jesus, have you agreed with what God the Father has said about Him?
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 02/19/23
From Bethlehem to Jerusalem: A Survey of the Life of Christ.
Jesus Christ only lived 33 years on earth and died a few miles from where He was born, yet His life and death changed the world. Has He changed you? Join us on this journey from Bethlehem to Jerusalem, as we follow the Lord from His birth to His resurrection, preaching some of the most amazing events recorded in Scripture.
Scripture: Luke 9:28-36; 2 Peter 1:16-18; Hebrews 10:19-23.
Message Focus: Do not let the “noise” of this world distract you from focusing on and following Jesus Christ.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 02/12/23
From Bethlehem to Jerusalem: A Survey of the Life of Christ.
Jesus Christ only lived 33 years on earth and died a few miles from where He was born, yet His life and death changed the world. Has He changed you? Join us on this journey from Bethlehem to Jerusalem, as we follow the Lord from His birth to His resurrection, preaching some of the most amazing events recorded in Scripture.
Scripture: Matthew 16:13-28
Message Focus: Jesus calls us, as He did His first disciples, to embrace the fact that He is our suffering savior.
Associate Pastor Doug Burch, Speaker.
Archive Date: 02/05/23
From Bethlehem to Jerusalem: A Survey of the Life of Christ.
Jesus Christ only lived 33 years on earth and died a few miles from where He was born, yet His life and death changed the world. Has He changed you? Join us on this journey from Bethlehem to Jerusalem, as we follow the Lord from His birth to His resurrection, preaching some of the most amazing events recorded in Scripture.
Scripture: Mark 6:30-44; John 6.
Message Focus: Jesus fed tens of thousands of people miraculously, and He can also take care of you.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 01/29/23
From Bethlehem to Jerusalem: A Survey of the Life of Christ.
Jesus Christ only lived 33 years on earth and died a few miles from where He was born, yet His life and death changed the world. Has He changed you? Join us on this journey from Bethlehem to Jerusalem, as we follow the Lord from His birth to His resurrection, preaching some of the most amazing events recorded in Scripture.
Scripture: Matthew 5-7
Message Focus: God sees beyond a person’s outward appearance and judges the heart. Do you have the righteousness required for His kingdom?
Associate Pastor Connor Harris, Speaker.
Archive Date: 01/22/23
From Bethlehem to Jerusalem: A Survey of the Life of Christ.
Jesus Christ only lived 33 years on earth and died a few miles from where He was born, yet His life and death changed the world. Has He changed you? Join us on this journey from Bethlehem to Jerusalem, as we follow the Lord from His birth to His resurrection, preaching some of the most amazing events recorded in Scripture.
Scripture: John 1:35-2:11
Message Focus: Jesus has the power to change things. Will you follow Him like His first disciples did?
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 01/15/23
From Bethlehem to Jerusalem: A Survey of the Life of Christ.
Jesus Christ only lived 33 years on earth and died a few miles from where He was born, yet His life and death changed the world. Has He changed you? Join us on this journey from Bethlehem to Jerusalem, as we follow the Lord from His birth to His resurrection, preaching some of the most amazing events recorded in Scripture.
Scripture:
Message Focus:
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 01/08/23
From Bethlehem to Jerusalem: A Survey of the Life of Christ.
Jesus Christ only lived 33 years on earth and died a few miles from where He was born, yet His life and death changed the world. Has He changed you? Join us on this journey from Bethlehem to Jerusalem, as we follow the Lord from His birth to His resurrection, preaching some of the most amazing events recorded in Scripture.
Scripture: Luke 2:40-52
Message Focus: By the age of 12, Jesus understood who He was and why He was here. Do you understand who you are and why you are here?
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 01/01/23
From Bethlehem to Jerusalem: A Survey of the Life of Christ.
Jesus Christ only lived 33 years on earth and died a few miles from where He was born, yet His life and death changed the world. Has He changed you? Join us on this journey from Bethlehem to Jerusalem, as we follow the Lord from His birth to His resurrection, preaching some of the most amazing events recorded in Scripture.
Scripture: Matthew 1-2; Luke 1-2
Message Focus: The uncreated Creator became a man because we are sinners in need of a Savior.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 12/25/22
A sermon series by Matt Thornton through the book of Second Thessalonians.
Scripture: 2 Th. 3:7-18.
Message Focus: Personally: Since honest work honors God, do not grow weary of your life’s work. Corporately: A church must withdraw fellowship from a disorderly member who refuses to repent when admonished.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 12/18/22
Scripture: Hebrews 1:1-4
Message Focus: God has spoken to us in His Son, whose power and glory are far beyond prophets or angels.
Associate Pastor Connor Harris, Speaker.
Archive Date: 12/11/22
Scripture: Romans 8.
Message Focus: Because of the death of Christ Jesus, those who are in Him are longer condemned to death but are empowered and indwelled by the Holy Spirit, destined for eternal glory.
Associate Pastor Doug Burch, Speaker.
Archive Date: 12/04/22
A sermon series by Matt Thornton through the book of Second Thessalonians.
Scripture: 2 Th. 3:1-5.
Message Focus: Love and endurance are necessary to keep obeying God, especially when times are tough.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 11/27/22
A sermon series by Matt Thornton through the book of Second Thessalonians.
Scripture: 2 Th. 2:15-17.
Message Focus: May God comfort us and grant us the strength (personally and as a church) to stand firm in His truth no matter what worldly consequences we might face.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 11/20/22
A sermon series by Matt Thornton through the book of Second Thessalonians.
Scripture: 2 Th. 2:13-14.
Message Focus: Be encouraged that God’s providence on a global scale never reduces His personal commitment to you.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 11/13/22
Sermon Segments. – Short clips from sermons from the pulpit of North Bryant Baptist Church. – From the sermon, "The Reliability of God's Word"
A sermon series by Matt Thornton through the book of Second Thessalonians.
Scripture: 2 Th. 2:11-12.
Message Focus: Trust God and serve Him while you have the opportunity because there will come a time when that opportunity is gone.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 11/06/22
A sermon series by Matt Thornton through the book of Second Thessalonians.
Scripture: 2 Th. 2:9-10.
Message Focus: Beware of any message that runs contrary to the Gospel of Jesus Christ no matter how powerful its messenger may seem.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 10/30/22
A sermon series by Matt Thornton through the book of Second Thessalonians.
Scripture: 2 Th. 2:6-8.
Message Focus: God is sovereign over all things, including the timing and termination of the Antichrist.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 10/23/22
Sermon Segments. – Short clips from sermons from the pulpit of North Bryant Baptist Church. –
From the sermon, "The Cross of Christ, the Power of God"
Sermon Segments. – Short clips from sermons from the pulpit of North Bryant Baptist Church. –
From the sermon, "Being Renewed"
A sermon series by Matt Thornton through the book of Second Thessalonians.
Scripture: 2 Th. 2:3-4.
Message Focus: Before Christ is revealed from Heaven (2 Th. 1:7), the Man of Sin will be revealed (2 Th. 2:3).
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 10/09/22
Sermon Segments. – Short clips from sermons from the pulpit of North Bryant Baptist Church. –
From the sermon, "Salvation: Planned in the Past"
Sermon Segments. – Short clips from sermons from the pulpit of North Bryant Baptist Church. –
From the sermon, "Don't Believe Everything You Hear"
Sermon Segments. – Short clips from sermons from the pulpit of North Bryant Baptist Church.
From the sermon, "Wisdom and Creation."
A sermon series by Matt Thornton through the book of Second Thessalonians.
Scripture: 2 Th. 2:1-3a, 5.
Message Focus: Hold fast to the truth of God's Word, and do not allow your faith to be shaken even if you hear something that seems to contradict it.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 10/02/22
A sermon series by Matt Thornton through the book of Second Thessalonians.
Scripture: 2 Th. 1:11-12.
Message Focus: Does your life anticipate Christ’s return by bringing Him glory in the present?
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 09/25/22
A sermon series by Matt Thornton through the book of Second Thessalonians.
Scripture: 2 Th. 1:8-10.
Message Focus: there are two very different groups of people waiting two very different eternities.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 09/18/22
A sermon series by Matt Thornton through the book of Second Thessalonians.
Scripture: 2 Th. 1:7b-8a.
Message Focus: When the righteous Judge of the universe is unveiled, He will be recognizable.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 09/11/22
A sermon series by Matt Thornton through the book of Second Thessalonians.
Scripture: 2 Th. 1:5-7.
Message Focus: Your sufferings are not insignificant to God. Not now. Not ever.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 09/04/22
A sermon series by Matt Thornton through the book of Second Thessalonians.
Scripture: 2 Th. 1:1-4.
Message Focus: May we serve God with growing faith, increasing love, and steadfast endurance.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 08/28/22
A sermon series by Matt Thornton through the book of First Thessalonians.
Scripture: 1 Th. 5:23-28.
Message Focus: God will be faithful to finish His work in us when Christ returns.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 08/21/22
Scripture: Matthew 11:1-11.
Message Focus: God uses a different standard for greatness than the world, taking pleasure in the humble servant who trusts in Him.
Associate Pastor Connor Harris, Speaker.
Archive Date: 08/14/22
Scripture: Ephesians 5:15-21.
Message Focus: Believers should consider the best use of the time God has given them, being filled with praise, thanksgiving, and service, rather than wasting it on foolish living.
Associate Pastor Connor Harris, Speaker.
Archive Date: 08/07/22
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 11:17-34.
Message Focus: The Lord’s Supper is a memorial service observed by the members of a true New Testament church that reminds them of the death of Jesus Christ.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 07/31/22
A sermon series by Matt Thornton through the book of First Thessalonians.
Scripture: 1 Th. 5:19-22.
Message Focus: Instead of going to the extremes of skepticism (believing nothing) and naive gullibility (believing everything), test what you hear by God’s standard (His Word), then keep the good and leave the bad.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 07/17/22
A sermon series by Matt Thornton through the book of First Thessalonians.
Scripture: 1 Th. 5:16-18.
Message Focus: Children of God must always be joyful, prayerful, and thankful.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 07/10/22
Scripture: Nahum 1:1-8.
Associate Pastor Connor Harris, Speaker.
Archive Date: 07/03/22
A Sermon Series Through the Life of David the King in Second Samuel.
Speaker: Matt Thornton, Pastor.
Archive Date: 00/00/00
A sermon series by Matt Thornton through the book of First Thessalonians.
Scripture: 1 Th. 5:14-15.
Message Focus: Believers should treat everyone – from fellow church members to unbelievers – in a Christ-like manner.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 06/26/22
A sermon series by Matt Thornton through the book of First Thessalonians.
Scripture: 1 Th. 5:12-13.
Message Focus: Church members should acknowledge and lovingly respect the pastors working among them.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 06/19/22
A Study Through “Five Fools from the Book of Proverbs”
Guest Speaker: Keith Rowton.
Vacation Bible School, Week of 6/12/22.
A Study Through “Five Fools from the Book of Proverbs”
Guest Speaker: Keith Rowton.
Vacation Bible School, Week of 6/12/22.
A Study Through “Five Fools from the Book of Proverbs”
Guest Speaker: Keith Rowton.
Vacation Bible School, Week of 6/12/22.
A Study Through “Five Fools from the Book of Proverbs”
Guest Speaker: Keith Rowton.
Vacation Bible School, Week of 6/12/22.
A Study Through “Five Fools from the Book of Proverbs”
Guest Speaker: Keith Rowton.
Vacation Bible School, Week of 6/12/22.
A sermon series by Matt Thornton through the book of First Thessalonians.
Scripture: 1 Th. 5:6-11.
Message Focus: Our outlook and attitude need to reflect the truth that the day of the Lord will be our ultimate salvation.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 06/12/22
A sermon series by Matt Thornton through the book of First Thessalonians.
Scripture: 1 Th. 5:1-5.
Message Focus: The day of the Lord will be both unexpected and unavoidable for the unbelieving world, but it should not overtake Christians.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 06/05/22
A sermon series by Matt Thornton through the book of First Thessalonians.
Scripture: 1 Th. 4:13-18.
Message Focus: Comfort one another with the truth of Christ’s return knowing what that means for believers.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 05/29/22
A sermon series by Matt Thornton through the book of First Thessalonians.
Scripture: 1 Th. 4:9-12.
Message Focus: When Christians love others and take care of their own responsibilities, it pleases God and offers a good witness to unbelievers as well.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 05/22/22
A sermon series by Matt Thornton through the book of First Thessalonians.
Scripture: 1 Th. 4:4-8.
Sermon in a Sentence: If you disregard the command of God, ultimately that means you are disregarding God Himself.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 05/15/22
Scripture: Ezekiel 37:1-14.
Associate Pastor Connor Harris, Speaker.
Archive Date: 05/08/22
A sermon series by Matt Thornton through the book of First Thessalonians.
Scripture: 1 Th. 4:1-3.
Sermon in a Sentence: God desires for His children to be sanctified, of which a major part is staying away from sexual immorality.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 05/01/22
A sermon series by Matt Thornton through the book of First Thessalonians.
Scripture: 1 Th. 3:10-13.
Sermon in a Sentence: In order to stand blamelessly before God when Christ returns, we must love others the way God loves us.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 04/23/22
Scripture: John 20; 1 Corinthians 15.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 04/17/22
A sermon series by Matt Thornton through the book of First Thessalonians.
Scripture: 1 Th. 3:10-13.
Sermon in a Sentence: Be joyfully encouraged by the good news of other believers' faith and love.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 04/10/22
A sermon series by Matt Thornton through the book of First Thessalonians.
Scripture: 1 Th. 3:1-5.
Sermon in a Sentence: Be concerned for suffering believers and strengthen them even if it requires personal sacrifice.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 04/03/22
A sermon series by Matt Thornton through the book of First Thessalonians. Scripture: 1 Th. 2:17-20. Sermon in a Sentence: In view of Christ’s future return, people matter most now. Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker. Archive Date: 03/27/22
Scripture: Matthew 8:18-22.
Sermon in a Sentence: Following Jesus requires us to embrace a life like His: a stranger on earth, seeking the Kingdom first.
Associate Pastor Connor Harris, Speaker.
Archive Date: 03/20/22
A sermon series by Matt Thornton through the book of First Thessalonians.
Scripture: 1 Th. 2:13-16.
Sermon in a Sentence: If you receive the gospel of Jesus Christ, you will be saved by the power of God. If you reject it, you will face His wrath.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 03/13/22
Scripture: Matthew 13:1-23; Isaiah 6:9-10
Associate Pastor Doug Burch, Speaker.
Archive Date: 03/06/22
A sermon series by Matt Thornton through the book of First Thessalonians.
Scripture: 1 Th. 2:7-12.
Sermon in a Sentence: Let us walk worthy of our great God and be thankful for spiritual leaders who urge us to do so.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 02/27/22
A sermon series by Matt Thornton through the book of First Thessalonians.
Scripture: 1 Th. 2:1-6.
Sermon in a Sentence: Since God tests our hearts, our deepest motivation should be to please Him above all else.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 02/20/22
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker. on through the book of First Thessalonians.
Scripture: 1 Th. 1:7-10.
Sermon in a Sentence: A model church consists of members who imitate Jesus Christ in their lives so much so that news of their faith spreads.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 02/13/22
A sermon series by Matt Thornton through the book of First Thessalonians.
Scripture: 1 Th. 1:5b-6.
Sermon in a Sentence: When you imitate Christ (or a good Christian example in your own life), it may lead to suffering, but it will never lead away from joy.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 02/06/22
A sermon series by Matt Thornton through the book of First Thessalonians.
Scripture: 1 Th. 1:4-5.
Sermon in a Sentence: People elected by God need to be serving God.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 01/30/22
A sermon series by Matt Thornton through the book of First Thessalonians.
Scripture: 1 Th. 1:2-3.
Sermon in a Sentence: We should be thankful for our fellow church members and live in a way that causes others to be thankful for us.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 01/23/22
A sermon series by Matt Thornton through the book of First Thessalonians.
Scripture: 1 Th. 1:1 & Selected Scriptures.
Sermon in a Sentence: Pray that we learn and implement everything God has for us in this letter that Paul wrote to a good church that was suffering affliction.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 01/16/22
A sermon series by Matt Thornton through the book of First Thessalonians.
Scripture: Acts 17:4-15.
Sermon in a Sentence: We must be persistent in our service for God even if we are labeled as the problem.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 01/09/22
A sermon series by Dr. Matt Thornton through the book of First Thessalonians.
Scripture: Acts 16, 17:1-4.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 12/02/22
Scripture: Selected Scriptures from Genesis, 2 Samuel, and more.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 12/12/21
“The Knowledge of the Truth, The Defense Against False Doctrine.” A Sermon Series by Dr. Matt Thornton through the book of Second Peter.
Scripture: 2 Peter 3:14-18.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 11/07/21
Scripture: Malachi 3:16-18, Esther 6
Associate Pastor Doug Burch, Speaker.
Archive Date: 10/24/21
“The Knowledge of the Truth, The Defense Against False Doctrine.” A Sermon Series by Dr. Matt Thornton through the book of Second Peter.
Scripture: 2 Peter 3:10-13.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 10/10/21
“The Knowledge of the Truth, The Defense Against False Doctrine.” A Sermon Series by Dr. Matt Thornton through the book of Second Peter.
Scripture: 2 Peter 3:8-9.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 10/03/21
“The Knowledge of the Truth, The Defense Against False Doctrine.” A Sermon Series by Dr. Matt Thornton through the book of Second Peter.
Scripture: 2 Peter 3:1-7.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 09/26/21
Scripture: Matthew 21:23-32.
Associate Pastor Connor Harris, Speaker.
Archive Date: 09/19/21
“The Knowledge of the Truth, The Defense Against False Doctrine.” A Sermon Series by Dr. Matt Thornton through the book of Second Peter.
Scripture: 2 Peter 2:17-22.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 09/12/21
“The Knowledge of the Truth, The Defense Against False Doctrine.” A Sermon Series by Dr. Matt Thornton through the book of Second Peter.
Scripture: 2 Peter 2:13b-16.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 09/05/21
“The Knowledge of the Truth, The Defense Against False Doctrine.” A Sermon Series by Dr. Matt Thornton through the book of Second Peter.
Scripture: 2 Peter 2:10-13a.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 08/29/21
“Living Skillfully in the Fear of God” – A series by Dr. Matt Thornton through the book of Proverbs.
The first half of this lesson was recorded on 08/18/21.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 08/25/21
“The Knowledge of the Truth, The Defense Against False Doctrine.” A Sermon Series by Dr. Matt Thornton through the book of Second Peter.
Scripture: 2 Peter 2:4-9.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 08/22/21
“Living Skillfully in the Fear of God.” A series by Dr. Matt Thornton through the book of Proverbs.
Since Wednesday night is a time of much class discussion, these lessons through the latter chapters of Proverbs have been edited and thereby shortened significantly.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 08/18/21
“The Knowledge of the Truth, The Defense Against False Doctrine.” A Sermon Series by Dr. Matt Thornton through the book of Second Peter.
Scripture: 2 Peter 2:4-9.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 08/15/21
Scripture: Colossians 6:2-10.
Associate Pastor Connor Harris, Speaker.
Archive Date: 08/08/21
“Living Skillfully in the Fear of God.” A series by Dr. Matt Thornton through the book of Proverbs.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 08/04/21
Scriptures: Hebrews 11:22, Genesis 50:22-26.
Associate Pastor Connor Harris, Speaker.
Archive Date: 07/21/21
Scripture: Revelation 2:1-7.
Associate Pastor Doug Burch, Speaker.
Archive Date: 07/18/21
Scripture: Genesis 22.
Associate Pastor Doug Burch, Speaker.
Recorded on Wednesday night, July 14, 2021.
“The Knowledge of the Truth, The Defense Against False Doctrine.” A Sermon Series by Dr. Matt Thornton through the book of Second Peter.
Scripture: 2 Peter 2:1-3.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 07/11/21
“Living Skillfully in the Fear of God.” A series by Dr. Matt Thornton through the book of Proverbs.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Recorded on Wednesday night, July 07, 2021
“The Knowledge of the Truth, The Defense Against False Doctrine.” A Sermon Series by Dr. Matt Thornton through the book of Second Peter.
Scripture: 2 Peter 1:19-21.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 07/04/21
Scripture: 1 Samuel 1:19-28.
Guest Speaker: Shaun Holland Jr.
Recorded on Wednesday night, June 31, 2021
“The Knowledge of the Truth, The Defense Against False Doctrine.” A Sermon Series by Dr. Matt Thornton through the book of Second Peter.
Scripture: 2 Peter 1:16-18.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 06/27/21
“Living Skillfully in the Fear of God.” A series by Dr. Matt Thornton through the book of Proverbs.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Recorded on Wednesday night, June 23, 2021
“The Knowledge of the Truth, The Defense Against False Doctrine.” A Sermon Series by Dr. Matt Thornton through the book of Second Peter.
Scripture: 2 Peter 1:12-16.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 06/20/21
“The Dangers of False Doctrine” – A Series presented by guest speakers at North Bryant Baptist Church.
Doug Burch, Speaker.
Recorded on Thursday night, 17 June 2021
“The Dangers of False Doctrine” – A Series presented by guest speakers at North Bryant Baptist Church.
Mark Thornton, Speaker.
Recorded on Wednesday night, 16 June 2021
“The Dangers of False Doctrine” – A Series presented by guest speakers at North Bryant Baptist Church.
Shaun Holland, Speaker.
Recorded on Tuesday night, 15 June 2021
“The Dangers of False Doctrine” – A Series presented by guest speakers at North Bryant Baptist Church. John David Watson, Speaker. Recorded on Monday night, 14 June 2021
“The Dangers of False Doctrine” – A Series presented by guest speakers at North Bryant Baptist Church.
Joey McDermott, Speaker.
Recorded on Sunday night, 13 June 2021
“The Knowledge of the Truth, The Defense Against False Doctrine.” A Sermon Series by Dr. Matt Thornton through the book of Second Peter.
Scripture: 2 Peter 1:9-11.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 06/13/21
“Living Skillfully in the Fear of God.” A series by Dr. Matt Thornton through the book of Proverbs.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Recorded on Wednesday night, June 9, 2021
“The Knowledge of the Truth, The Defense Against False Doctrine.” A Sermon Series by Dr. Matt Thornton through the book of Second Peter.
Scripture: 2 Peter 1:5-8.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 06/06/21
“The Knowledge of the Truth, The Defense Against False Doctrine.” A Sermon Series by Dr. Matt Thornton through the book of Second Peter.
Scripture: 2 Peter 1:2-4.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 05/30/21
“Living Skillfully in the Fear of God.” A series by Dr. Matt Thornton through the book of Proverbs.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Recorded on Wednesday night, May 26, 2021.
A Series by Dr. Matt Thornton through the book of Second Peter.
...
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 05/23/21
“Living Skillfully in the Fear of God.” A series by Dr. Matt Thornton through the book of Proverbs.
This lesson serves as an introduction to the short “rapid-fire” wise sayings of Solomon as well as the rest of the book of Proverbs. Although this lesson is more academic in nature, its need cannot be overstated. The purpose of this lesson is to help us as students understand the different styles and types of proverbs in this vast book of wisdom. Without an understanding of the different kinds of proverbs, our interpretation of them is sure to fall short of the truth. It is important for us as readers to remember that this wisdom is from God, and we need to understand how to interpret the Word of God correctly. This lesson serves as an aid for that.
From this point forward, the lessons on the series through Proverbs will largely be listed by Scripture reference only as they are often short and pithy statements that are not so connected topically as are the previous sections of the Book of Proverbs.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Recorded on Wednesday night, May 19, 2021.
"The Pouting Prophet and God's Mercy for All," a series by Dr. Matt Thornton through the book of Jonah.
…
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Painting by Sally Santoyo.
Date Recorded: 05/16/21
"The Pouting Prophet and God's Mercy for All," a series by Dr. Matt Thornton through the book of Jonah.
…
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Painting by Sally Santoyo.
Date Recorded: 05/09/21
“Living Skillfully in the Fear of God.” A series by Dr. Matt Thornton through the book of Proverbs.
There are two parties hosted on the same day and you are invited to both of them. The problem is obvious; you can only go to one of the parties.
One of the parties is actually a banquet presented by Lady Wisdom who has prepared both a lavish dinner with the best food and drink and a wonderful opportunity for giving you her insight. She invites you well ahead of time in hopes that you will heed her call. The other is a party by a lazy hostess, Madam Folly, who has prepared nothing for you except a graveyard. She sits lazily on a throne in hopes that you will come at her disturbingly inviting call.
Of course, this is one big metaphor for obeying God and fearing him, or falling prey to the world because of rejecting God. Hopefully, the choice between the two parties is obvious, but sadly, many choose the latter option. So, choose wisely because your very life depends on it.
Scripture: Proverbs 9:1-18.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Recorded on Wednesday night, May 5, 2021.
"The Pouting Prophet and God's Mercy for All," a series by Dr. Matt Thornton through the book of Jonah.
From the belly of a huge fish - whatever kind of fish it was, does not matter - jonah, this disobedient and pouting profit, praise to Yahweh his God and cries out from his despair. He thanks God for rescuing him from what was going to be certain death in a watery grave, and he asks that God would rescue him again, saying "But I with the voice of thanksgiving will sacrifice to you; what I have vowed I will pay. Salvation belongs to the Lord.”
However, in this prayer that begins with Jonah directly quoting from several different Psalms, there is a rather unfortunate plot twist to the prayer of this prophet. The prayer beings with thanksgiving for his rescue, and it ends in a pitiful attitude of arrogance.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Painting by Sally Santoyo.
Date Recorded: 05/02/21
“Living Skillfully in the Fear of God.” A series by Dr. Matt Thornton through the book of Proverbs.
…
Scripture: Proverbs 8:1-21.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Recorded on Wednesday night, April 28, 2021.
"The Pouting Prophet and God's Mercy for All," a series by Dr. Matt Thornton through the book of Jonah.
To try and play a game of hide-and-seek with the Almighty, all-seeing, all-powerful God of the universe is futile. However, the pouting prophet of God named Jonah did just that. When God called Jonah to preach to an enemy city, Jonah ran in the opposite direction. Still, even amidst such a terrible example is Jonah, there is a marvelous example of God's sovereignty over the entire earth.
During a mighty and tempestuous storm that batters the ship by which Jonah has fled, even Jonah himself is recorded as telling the sailors that God made the land and the sea. In just the first chapter, Jonah is called, he flees from the call, God pursues him, sends a mighty storm onto the sea, and Jonah asks to be thrown into the sea, then is thrown into the sea. And the most terrible thing about this is that Jonah does not do this as an act of heroism. Instead, he does this because he would rather die than repent.
Still, something remarkable happens near the end of the first chapter. Yahweh, the God of all land and the sea, uses the testimony of this disobedient prophet to turn these pagan sailors to Himself.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Painting by Sally Santoyo.
Date Recorded: 04/25/21
“Living Skillfully in the Fear of God.” A series by Dr. Matt Thornton through the book of Proverbs.
…
Scripture: Proverbs 8:1-21.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Recorded on Wednesday night, April 21, 2021.
Jonah 1:1-3
"The Pouting Prophet and God's Mercy for All," a series by Dr. Matt Thornton through the book of Jonah.
One of the main themes in Jonah is God’s sovereignty over all creation. In the ancient world, it was most common for people to be polytheistic, specifically with gods who supposedly have authority only over certain geographical regions. Interestingly enough, those gods are false and created anyway, so they have no authority whatsoever. Yahweh, however, has watch-care and authority over all creation because He created all things.
That authority means He has the right to judge anyone He desires. He also has the right to exercise mercy on anyone as well. And since God has such an incomprehensible amount of love for humanity, He calls the prophet Jonah to preach to the enemy city of Nineveh about the coming judgment. Ironically, the very prophet which the Sovereign God sends runs in the opposite direction of the city to where he is called.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Painting by Sally Santoyo.
Date Recorded: 04/18/21
Selected Scriptures from Jonah, and Matthew 12.
"The Pouting Prophet and God's Mercy for All," a series by Dr. Matt Thornton through the book of Jonah.
In the Old Testament, there is one prophet who stands out as being rather unusual and unique in an unfortunate way. He is the prophet, Jonah. His sermon, which took a great deal of forcefulness of God to cause Jonah to preach it, is all of five words in the Hebrew language. The message contains no call to repentance but only judgment. Before his short sermon, he spent three days and three nights in the belly of a great fish. The story is very familiar to many people, but the attitude of Jonah is even more relevant than most are willing to admit. He was prejudiced and angry because of the grace of God on people who did not deserve it, which is quite appalling considering that grace from God is by its definition undeserved. Sadly, Jonah was angry when Nineveh repented and God relented of His judgment.
Perhaps what is even sadder is the fact that some discount the story of Jonah as a fable or an allegory. However, that is ridiculous because Jesus counted it as a historical event. Jesus even said that Jonah being in the fish for three days and nights points to the Resurrection, the very foundation of the gospel. That being said, the validity of the gospel is at stake if Jonah is not a true story. The fact is, the events in the short book of Jonah did happen, and the many lessons to be learned are as relevant today as they were when Jonah was written.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Painting by Sally Santoyo.
Date Recorded: 04/11/21
“Living Skillfully in the Fear of God.” A series by Dr. Matt Thornton through the book of Proverbs.
In Proverbs, there is no subject upon which more emphasis is placed than that of sexual purity. Solomon is giving wisdom to his son in this passage, as he has been throughout much of the book, so that inclines the wise father to put the warning of temptation in the form of a forbidden woman. But of course, the danger of not being prepared for any kind of sexual temptation is true across the board.
In this warning passage, Solomon tells a story in the form of a cautionary tale in such a way that the reader has cause to believe that this actually happened, and indeed it has and does even today. The story is about a naïve young man who false prey to a married woman whose husband is away from home. She invites him into her arms, into her home, into her bed, and all while encompassing it in religious talk as though God “brought them together.” However, the true reality is that she a liar and an adulteress who wants the young “simple-minded” man to sin with her. And the worst part is that he has no idea that it will cost him his life.
Solomon tells his son, and God through Solomon tells us, this tragedy of dramatic immorality as a major warning against one of the most dangerous, destructive, and even deadly sins that anyone without applied wisdom and prudence is capable of committing.
Scripture: Proverbs 7.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Recorded on Wednesday night, April 07, 2021.
Selected Scriptures: John 19, Matthew 27 and 28, 1 Corinthians 15
Without the death of Christ, there can be no resurrection of Christ. And without the resurrection, Christianity is literally pointless and foundationless. There are numerous theories about what some believe "really" happened to Jesus. Some have tried to say the disciples stole the body of Jesus, some have said Jesus never died (but fainted, or "swooned"), and some believe, including the major world religion of Islam, teach that the entire crucifixion was all an illusion. The truth of the matter is, Satan is behind every one of those ridiculous and dangerous theories.
There is not one shred of evidence for any one of them. The fact is, the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ is a historical event that even secular sources outside confirm. The only reason people do not believe in Jesus is not for a lack of evidence, but by choice. In order to deny Christ's gospel, a person must choose to do so without regard for the evidence at hand.
But God did not leave us with evidence and head knowledge only; faith is still required. Christ died for the sins of the world, was buried, and was raised again from the dead to redeem us from sin. That belief is personal, and it must be so in order to change a life. The message of the gospel has changed lives for centuries, and it will continue to because Christians serve a risen Savior, who is in the world day. We know that He is risen, whatever men may say.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker
Archive Date: 04/04/21
Proverbs 6:20-35
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Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker
Recorded on Wednesday night, March 31, 2021.
1 Samuel 7:3-12, Luke 18:1-8
"Sorrowed I shall be in spirit,
'Til released from flesh and sin,
Yet from what I do inherit,
Here Thy praises, I'll begin.
Here I raise mine Ebenezer,
Here, by Thy great help, I've come.
And I hope, by Thy good pleasure,
Safely to arrive at home."
In a world as wicked as the one in which we live today, there has never been a greater need for the lifestyle taught by Samuel the prophet in 1 Samuel 7 and by Jesus, Himself in a parable to His disciples. That lifestyle is one of persistent prayer. Christians need not give up on their prayer life because they cannot see God working. The Scripture teaches that God will set everything right and he is the only one who has any authority and power to set things as they should be.
With such a perverse world that hates God and hates those who love God, Christians must raise fervent prayers to our only hope, our Ebenezer (Stone of Help), our Solid Rock, Jesus Christ.
Associate Pastor Doug Buch, Speaker.
Date recorded: 03/28/21
1 Corinthians 1:17-25.
Although the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are not seeking the wisdom of God, it is the very life-giving salvation of those who believe in it.
Associate Pastor Connor Harris, Speaker.
Recorded on Wednesday night, March 25, 2021.
2 Kings 22.
In a culture where practically anything can (and often is) declared as “hate speech” or “racism” or simply “offensive,” and when silencing books and articles becomes more than just political correctness but turns into societal expectation and sometimes even law, it should not be a surprising event when the Christians’ basis of belief, the Bible itself, is labeled as hateful. The Bible has already been banned in other countries, and it can and likely will happen in America as well. That is not to say that offending people, being racist, and speaking hatred is right. The Bible itself teaches against all those things. The gospel is offensive, but that is because it convicts us of our own sin.
So, what is the Christian’s response to this supposed to be?
Second Kings 22 and 23 give us a wonderful answer to this question. During King Josiah’s reign in Judah, the Law of God was rediscovered in God’s own temple where ironically it had been lost. The previous kings did nothing to follow the Word of God but, in fact, rejected it completely. Josiah, upon the rediscovering of the Law of Moses, mourned the sin of the nation, called for repentance, prayed for mercy, created reform, and even reinstated the Passover for the first time in hundreds of years. God still had to punish the wickedness of his people, but in His wrath, God remembered the faithful repentance of Josiah – a king who the Bible calls the most righteous king who ever lived.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 03/21/21
Ephesians 2:1-10.
The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Ephesian church, writes a plethora of important reminders – reminders to those who are already believers in Christ. There are some difficult memories of which Paul reminds the Ephesians, but he does not do so without telling them of some wonderful realities that they all have in Christ Jesus.
Paul begins by describing the bitter place where the Ephesians once were – children of wrath, followers of Satan, sons of disobedience, carrying out the desires of the body and the mind. However, he gives them two wonderful words… “but God.” Following these two words comes some of the greatest verses about salvation in Christ in all the new testament – the fact that we are “saved by grace through faith.”
These truths are for those who already believe, and they are given to Christians, not because Christians are necessarily unaware of them, but rather for the purpose of reminding them that this work of God and not of them. Therefore, all the praise is to His glory.
Associate Pastor Connor Harris, Speaker.
Archive date: 03/14/21
“Living Skillfully in the Fear of God.” A series by Dr. Matt Thornton through the book of Proverbs.
Scripture: Proverbs 7:12-19.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Recorded on Wednesday Night, March 10, 2021.
1 Peter 5:10-14.
“Salvation, Submission, Suffering.” A Study Through the First Epistle of Peter.
Peter offers his readers his final encouragements. In these encouragements are several truths he has already discussed, including that of the sovereign power and control of the God of all grace, whereby Christians find a tremendous amount of encouragement in times of suffering.
In a world, much like Peter’s audience was living in, where Christians are becoming more and more hated, socially ostracized, and even in many places killed, the recognition of the power and dominion of the God of all grace has never been more relevant and encouraging. The eternal salvation God offers through His Son, Jesus Christ, is the true source of what Peter calls an “unspeakable and glorious joy.”
Therefore, living in the midst of suffering is no time for Christians to doubt God’s love and care; it is a time to be encouraged by the fact that this is not our home. We are privileged pilgrims, elected exiles, and children of God. Nothing – no pain on this earth in this life – can even remotely compare to the joy that is awaiting those who are in Christ. This promise of eternal life from God is a promise upon which Christians stand firm, and this promise given to every believer abides as a more bountiful source of encouragement than any other.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 03/07/21
“Living Skillfully in the Fear of God.” A series by Dr. Matt Thornton through the book of Proverbs.
There are two seemingly unrelated practical principles for living that Solomon gives in the first few verses of Proverbs 6. However, the connection between these two sets of advice, Liability & Laziness, can be summed up in one word; provision. Being liable to another person for an extended period of time can be extremely detrimental to financial stability, and thus it puts your family in harm’s way.
Laziness will also lead to financial issues. The sluggard (the continually lazy individual) will carry with him an entitlement attitude and thus refuse to work due to a plethora of excuses; not to mention that the incessant loafer is also a quitter at heart. He has no regard for the biblical principle Paul gave which says “If you don’t work, you don’t eat.”
Both of these things, unnecessary liability and a life of continual idleness are clear evidence of bad stewardship of what God has given, and these kinds of behaviors are best avoided in the lives of Christians.
Scripture: Proverbs 6:1-11.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Recorded on Wednesday Night, February 3, 2021.
1 Peter 5:8-9.
“Salvation, Submission, Suffering.” A Study Through the First Epistle of Peter.
Peter beings to wrap up his letter with some final admonitions and warnings. One of those warnings is about the devil himself. Peter describes the devil as a roaring lion who is prowling the earth, seeking people to devour and swallow up. With this warning, Peter gives instructions on how to avoid the devil's temptations and traps. He tells us that we must be alert and aware of what is going on around us. If we fail to do this, we will most certainly fall into the Adversary's traps. If we heed this warning, we will be able to stand face to face with the devil and withstand his temptations. As the song, "When I Can Read My Title Clear" states:
"Should earth against my soul engage,
And fiery darts be hurled,
Then I can smile at Satan's rage,
And face a frowning world."
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 02/21/21
1 Peter 5:5-7.
“Salvation, Submission, Suffering.” A Study Through the First Epistle of Peter.
The arrogance of a prideful man is probably one of the most noticeable sins that exists. But the worry of a troubled soul is probably one of the least thought of sins - but it is still sin nonetheless. It is just as prideful to worry as it is to boast about one's own accomplishments because both fail to give God the credit He deserves. If we worry, it is because of one of two reasons (or both); either we believe we should instead have control over a situation we do not, or because we believe Almighty God is not powerful enough to handle the situation Himself. In other words, to the extent that we worry is to the extent that we lack faith in God.
However, Peter lovingly offers Christians a wonderful solution to this pandemic of worry. We are to cast our anxieties on God. We can do this because God, the creator of all things, cares for us and loves us more deeply and fully than we could ever love ourselves. If we really do trust God with our lives, then we will not worry at all about the things in our lives.
So ask yourself this question: "Do I trust God or do I not?"
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 02/21/21
1 Peter 5:1-4.
“Salvation, Submission, Suffering.” A Study Through the First Epistle of Peter.
Peter has discussed what the coming judgment day means for believers and unbelievers. He has shown us, his readers, that doing good and committing our lives to our faithful Creator is how we can faithfully endure suffering. With all of that in mind, Peter makes a transition into the subject of the faithfulness of pastors, especially since teachers of the Word of God will be under a stricter judgment for their responsibility for God’s people.
But rather than talking about God's judgment of teachers, Peter talks about how pastors are to shepherd God’s flock. Pastors are not to domineer over their people, nor are they to take the leadership position as an opportunity for selfish gain and exploitation. They are not to see it as a cumbersome, unwanted burden to bear as though it were nothing more than an obligation. Pastors are to shepherd the flock of God with full and complete eagerness, knowing that, when Christ returns, they each will receive a crown of victory only to cast that very crown before the throne of the Good Shepherd and Almighty God.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 02/14/21
“Living Skillfully in the Fear of God.” A series by Dr. Matt Thornton through the book of Proverbs.
There is no greater emphasis given to anything in the book of Proverbs than that of sexual purity. This wisdom on sexuality - warnings against the immoral, and wisdom for sexual purity - is given from a father to a son. But whether it is a forbidden man or a forbidden woman, any person who is not your spouse is forbidden in the area of sexuality. This is the message that Solomon gives to his son.
Sexual immorality always begins with temptation. A seed is planted; a flirtatious glance, a flattering text, or an offhanded touch. But once that seed is planted, it can grow into costly, destructive, and perhaps even public sexual sin and humiliation. It ruins lives, even for Christians. But there is hope. The best defense against such sexual sin, for single people or married people, is to avoid the situation altogether. For those who are married, defend your own marriage with the love and submission Paul described in the book of Ephesians.
Scripture: Proverbs 5.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Recorded on Wednesday Night, February 10, 2021.
1 Peter 4:17-19.
“Salvation, Submission, Suffering.” A Study Through the First Epistle of Peter.
In the book of Acts, Paul encouraged the disciples of Christ by telling them that, through many trials and hardships, Christians will enter the Kingdom of God. That might seem like a strange way to encourage, but it is through enduring these difficulties and persecutions that we glorify God.
The encouragement Peter offers in these verses to close the fourth chapter the very same encouragement, though Peter's take it another step. These early Christians, having been encouraged through all that Peter has told him, are now given one of the greatest reasons to patiently endure suffering; by awaiting the judgment upon believers and unbelievers, Because our judgment for being faithful will be nothing like the judgment on the unfaithful. While doing this, we must also commit ourselves to our faithful creator by continuing to do good even in the face of persecution.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 02/07/21
“Living Skillfully in the Fear of God.” A series by Dr. Matt Thornton through the book of Proverbs.
Scripture: Proverbs 4:1-17.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Recorded on Wednesday Night, February 3, 2021.
1 Peter 4:12-16.
“Salvation, Submission, Suffering.” A Study Through the First Epistle of Peter.
Such continual words on the subject of suffering might seem a bit wearing on Peter's readers, but in times like these, when being a Christian is becoming ever harder to do without persecution (even in American culture), we need reminders and encouraging words like these more and more. Peter has spoken heavily on how we are to behave in suffering, but he begins a new section with his address to his readers, "Beloved." And in this section, he discusses how we are to think in times of suffering.
First of all, we must not be surprised when suffering for being called a "Christian" comes upon us, and indeed it is inevitable if we are really living as Christ would have us live. Secondly, however, we also need to remember that the trials we face (verbal attacks, societal ostracism, etc.) make us blessed, just as Jesus Himself said. Lastly, when we suffer, it makes us more like Christ, and His purpose for our suffering is to refine us and make us better people for His Kingdom.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 01/31/21
“Living Skillfully in the Fear of God.” A series by Dr. Matt Thornton through the book of Proverbs.
Solomon continues his giving of wisdom. In this section, he discusses how we are to use wisdom in our relationships with those around us.
Scripture: Proverbs 3:27-35.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Recorded on Wednesday Night, January 27, 2021.
1 Peter 4:7-11.
“Salvation, Submission, Suffering.” A Study Through the First Epistle of Peter.
Peter has discussed how Christians are to consider, behave, and interact with the outside world. Having done that, he shifts his focus to how Christians should interact with one another. When we suffer for being Christians, that is not the time for us to turn on one another, but it should be when we make the effort to love each other even more.
As Christ said, we must love our enemies, but we must not become like them and behave like the world, because we are not of the world. But amidst the trial’s refining fire, and the suffering we endure, we must not allow that to stress us out to the point where we neglect one another, or worse, lash out at each other. If there is any time when we need one another, it is during trials. So, Peter calls upon his readers and upon us to strive for loving one another as a man strives for the finish line in a race.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 01/24/21
“Living Skillfully in the Fear of God.” A series by Dr. Matt Thornton through the book of Proverbs.
“Uncertainty” seems to be a word that describes the world we live in today, but nothing so uncertain as the future can change what we know about God and his wisdom. Solomon begins a new description of wisdom, focusing on the power it possesses and the peace that it brings to those who submit to it. Solomon begins by describing God’s wisdom as what was present during creation. It was through wisdom that God created the universe, our world, the water, and the land, the violence of nature, and the calmness of nature. The wisdom of God holds all things together.
Everything about our world and our universe points to an all-powerful God as its creator. Since God did create everything, He gets to make the rules. And that same all-powerful God has not only given us physical laws but moral laws as well. Since he creates the rules, and He is all-powerful, and since we know that he is a loving and benevolent God, we have every obligation and every reason to submit to his wisdom. Once we do this, there will come a peace that passes all human comprehension to guard our hearts and minds. Furthermore, as Solomon specifically says, this will allow us to sleep peacefully at night, having entrusted all things to God.
Scripture: Proverbs 3:19-26.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Recorded on Wednesday Night, January 20, 2021.
1 Peter 4:1-6.
“Salvation, Submission, Suffering.” A Study Through the First Epistle of Peter.
After Peter’s much-needed reminder that suffering is not the end for those who are in Christ, he takes that a step further by calling Christians to fulfill the greatest martyrdom if necessary; death. But even before that, there is an arguably more difficult calling to sacrifice our lives daily. In other words, Christians must not only be willing to die for the name of Jesus but also to live for the name of Jesus.
These commands Peter gives his persecuted readers are strong. In our country of America, the persecution is not so cut and dried as a life-or-death situation. The pressure that Christians face, and the pressure that all people face, is to “fit in.” However, Peter tells us that we need to be conformed to Christ and weaponize ourselves with his mindset – the mindset which knows it is better to be right with God than right with the world. By taking on this attitude, we will automatically not fit in, and people will notice that. That will eventually bring social, political, and perhaps physical persecution – persecution for which all Christians must be prepared.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 01/17/21
1 Peter 3:17-22.
“Salvation, Submission, Suffering.” A Study Through the First Epistle of Peter.
These verses in Peter’s first letter are known as some of the most challenging, the most debated, and strangest verses in all the New Testament, and certainly all of Scripture. However, through the difficulty of these verses, God’s people reading this must not lose sight of the context, which is submission to unjust suffering. Peter uses these illustrations about Noah, Baptism, and water to depict the message of Christ’s suffering (and ours) coming to an end.
Peter has written so much about suffering; the suffering of Christ, Christ's submission to unjust suffering, and our responsibility as Christians to reflect that attitude in our lives. All this talk about suffering is certainly weighty, but the good news is that the suffering is not all there is. There is so much more to come for those who have put their faith in Christ. All this is possible because Christ did not end in suffering. His suffering ended in glorious victory, and because of that, our suffering will end as well.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 01/10/21
“Living Skillfully in the Fear of God.” A series by Dr. Matt Thornton through the book of Proverbs.
Solomon has given his son the instruction to trust in the Lord with all his heart, to not rely on his own feeble and limited understanding, and to make God the priority in everything he does. Solomon tells us this just as well as he tells his son. However, one very valid question arises: How exactly do we carry this out practically?
We might think that because this is the book of "Proverbs," there is little or no practical advice for specific situations. But as we have seen already, there are many specific situations Solomon gives us that we all face in life - human suffering, wealth, the lack of wealth, and more. While Proverbs contains a great amount of "general truths," there are so many applicable principles showing very specific ways to trust God in everything we do, not just on Sunday mornings. When it comes to life's extremes, those are times when we might find it difficult to trust God. We may forget He is the giver of blessings, and we may not pay attention to His discipline. But because everything God allows Christians to go through is to direct our attention and worship to Him, we need not forget God in the blessed times, and we must not despise Him and His guidance in the difficult times.
Scripture: Proverbs 3:9-18.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Recorded on Wednesday Night, January 6, 2021.
Haggai 1:1-11.
As a new year comes upon us, we will probably be thinking first about how much we would like to forget the majority of the last year. However, God would have something better for us. It should not take much analysis of the Old Testament to see that God was incredibly gracious and patient with Israel's slowness to do His will. He continually reminded them of His grace and mercy. He would often take blessings away in order to get their attention and remind them of His power. But sometimes, even Christians are stubborn and refuse to listen.
The Israelites have been safely brought back from exile, they have been blessed, and God has even removed some blessings in order to turn their attention to Him - and, more specifically, to rebuild His temple. God has certainly done all of those things for us in the last year. We have certainly been humbled. So, with that in mind, we should be thankful for God's blessings and stop neglecting His Word, His church, and His will. We should pause and truly consider our ways to see whether we are really as serious about God as we think we are.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 01/03/21
Luke 5:1-11.
In the early days of Jesus Christ’s earthly ministry, many people were healed by Him, many were taught by His words from God, and many came to believe that he was the Messiah. It is evident that the disciples, who we know as The Twelve, were already aware of Jesus’ Lordship early in His ministry. They are following Jesus around where He goes and hearing Him teach. However, they had not been doing so full-time, so to speak. They were still entrenched in their occupations.
On one occasion, all of that is changed. After teaching for a time from a boat on the shore, Jesus Christ tells a group of professional fishermen, who have caught nothing in their night-long toil, to fish again. They do so reluctantly. The catch is incredible. The net and the boat become absolutely overwhelmed by the number of fish that the net begins to break and the boat starts to sink. One man, who we knew as Peter, is astonished at this great blessing from the Lord and falls down before Jesus in awe. This remarkable blessing from Jesus sparks a committed fire of faith in the hearts of these men, and they abandon all of this at the call of Jesus who says to them, “follow me.”
Associate Pastor Doug Burch, Speaker.
Archive date: 12/27/20
Matthew 1:1-17.
What does your family tree look like? Are there people in it that make you proud? Would a potential employer be more likely to hire you because of someone in your family? Or are there people in your family tree to whom you are not proud to be related? In the opening chapter of his gospel, Matthew lists the family linage of Jesus Christ. He does this for the benefit of his primarily Jewish audience. In the Jewish culture, the family lineage, specifically their connection with their father Abraham, is very important. For Jesus Christ, the Apostle Matthew listing this lineage is especially important especially due to the fact that Jesus had to be of the line of David in order to be the Messiah - which indeed, He is.
But there is one more rather remarkable reason that Matthew lists this lineage. Just as in any other family tree, there are good apples and bad apples. Some people are (and have done things that are) praiseworthy, and some have not. The human ancestry of Christ is no different. Matthew lists this genealogy of imperfect people, some of whom committed many of the worst sins recorded in the Old Testament, with this purpose: to show us the incredible grace of God in His use of sinful humanity to accomplish His eternal purposes. God used imperfect humanity to bring about the Perfect Messiah, born of a virgin in the lowliest of circumstances.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Recorded on Wednesday night, December 23, 2020.
Philippians 2:6-8. During the Christmas season, it is easy for Christians to think about our go-to Bible passages about the birth of Christ - those found it Luke, Matthew, or even the account in John 1 which speak on Christ becoming flesh and dwelling among us. The are wonderful words we think about like "joy," "peace," "love," "thankfulness," and "gifts." Those words are certainly welcomed and should turn our minds to Christ, especially this time of year. But there is one word that we probably would not think of when we think about Christmas and the brith of Christ, and that word is "humility." This is the very word that the Apostle Paul had in his mind when he wrote this letter to the Philippians. In the second chapter of that beloved letter, Paul gives what could be considered as Paul’s account of the Nativity of Jesus Christ. Rather than focus on all the events which surrounded Jesus's birth, Paul centers on what drove the Son of God to become a man. That motivation was humility. In Jesus's great love, He humbled Himself, not only to becoming a human being, but He became a servant of servants. He became the lowest of the low, even in His death on the cross, all because He loves to the point of the utmost humility. Archive Date: 12/20/20
“Living Skillfully in the Fear of God.” A series by Dr. Matt Thornton through the book of Proverbs.
If there is one phrase that most children know very well, it is probably the phrase "because I said so." Often times, parents use this phrase in order to instill a level of trust in the child. While this is not contrary to Scriptural patterns for building trust, and while we certainly have a Heavenly Father who has every right to say such a phrase to His children, in His giving of wisdom, He has not done so. God has given us real-life incentives for choosing to trust in Him.
Solomon writes that the wisdom of God is not just a list of do's and don'ts that we must blindly follow. We as Christians have the very reason why we should trust God with all of our hearts, and not put our weight onto untrustworthy pursuits and pleasures of this temporal world. We have, not only commands to trust God, but we have very good reason to trust Him. He loves us, and He wants the best for us. Even in the very person of Jesus, who is indeed God in the flesh, this is true. For He did not say, "come to this set of highest ideals and place your faith in them to save you," but rather Jesus says "come unto me, and I will give you rest."
Scripture: Proverbs 3:1-8.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Recorded on Wednesday Night, December 16, 2020.
1 Peter 3:13-16.
“Salvation, Submission, Suffering.” A Study Through the First Epistle of Peter.
When we think of fears, we probably think of phobias and anxieties, and we might even simply consider some of them as quirks and not real fears. We might think of suffering, we might think of difficult circumstances, but one thing we probably do not think much about is the great impact that those fears have on our lives. The existence or lack of those fears can shape the way we live from day today, and if left unchecked, being afraid of the wrong things can actually hurt us.
Peter teaches us, in the very heart of the third chapter of his first epistle, that we need not be afraid of those who persecute us for the sake of righteousness (that is, for being a Christian), but rather that we should acknowledge the holiness of Christ in our hearts instead. Not being afraid and recognizing God's holiness might seem like two completely different ideas, but they are not at all. When we fear God, when we set him apart in our hearts just as he is in reality, we are agreeing with God about who He is and about who we are. This fear of God is strengthening to the Christian's heart, because it changes the way we think about God and the way we think about our circumstances. Not only that, but it is inevitable that, when we do this, people will ask us why we have such a hopeful and positive attitude in such difficult circumstances. And for that question, we must be prepared beforehand to give an answer.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 12/13/20
“Living Skillfully in the Fear of God.” A series by Dr. Matt Thornton through the book of Proverbs.
After Lady Wisdom gives her invitation, Solomon takes the call to wisdom a step further by showing us what reality looks like to her. Wisdom is prudent and she knows what will happen if we make certain choices, both good and bad. Through the eyes of wisdom, Solomon’s son learns how to fear God and love Him as he ought, which means this son must stay away from evil things – corrupt men who would have help this son take advantage of others, and adulterous women who would seek to take advantage the son. Of course, this principle is applicable for both men and women of all ages, as Solomon said at the beginning of his book of Proverbs.
Therefore, when we as Christians heed the warnings of Solomon to his son, we prudently see sin’s destruction before it can happen to us, and we are protected from its crushing consequences. This prudence allows us to really live skillfully in the fear of God. To see through wisdom’s eyes is to see the true reality of all things.
Scripture: Proverbs 2:1-22.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Recorded on Wednesday Night, December 9, 2020.
1 Peter 3:8-12.
“Salvation, Submission, Suffering.” A Study Through the First Epistle of Peter.
Good days? Loving life? In today’s divided, unloving, and unsettled world, that seems unrealistic. But it is altogether possible by Christians living out the characteristics that Peter describes.
In the third chapter of his first letter, Peter names five characteristics that we should have as God’s people; Unity of mind, sympathy for one another, active love for one another, affection towards each other, and humility of heart. If that sounds familiar, it should, because these are all attributes of Jesus. All of these traits describe Him perfectly, and they should describe us too – not only because this conforms us to Christ, but as we become more like Him, we will have good days and we love life as He did.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 12/06/20
“Living Skillfully in the Fear of God.” A series by Dr. Matt Thornton through the book of Proverbs.
Some forms of wisdom come in mysterious riddles, often requiring the already-made wise to interpret them. However, the wisdom of much of the book of Proverbs is not this way. The truths are not overly difficult to understand, but they can be difficult to put into practice. While they are simple, they are profound enough to make even the simple-minded wise.
Solomon personifies wisdom as Lady calling out in the busy, noisy marketplace. In the ancient near east, this would be where all the business took place, and it quite a noisy environment. A person could find almost anything they could ever want in the marketplace, but in the midst of all the noise and commotion calls Lady Wisdom. She cries out in love, in an attempt to get our attention, hoping that we will turn at her invitation instead of falling among the pursuits that will harm us.
Scripture: Proverbs 1:20-33.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Recorded on Wednesday Night, December 2, 2020
1 Peter 3:7.
“Salvation, Submission, Suffering.” A Study Through the First Epistle of Peter.
It is certainly an odd thing to imagine, after hearing Peter say that the wife is willfully submit to the husband, that the husband also is to submit willfully as well. In a truly loving marriage, the husband submits himself to God’s authority over him by loving his wife as Christ loves the church and give His life for it. This is vital for Christian men to understand.
After Peter spending several verses on the wife’s role, perhaps at first glance, one verse dedicated to the husband appears a bit unfair or uneven. But this is untrue. The context of submission in which Peter writes demands that he address the role of the wife with a bit heavier detail. But neither role is more important than the other. They are different and equal. Just as the wife’s role represents the church submitting to Christ, the husband’s role represents Christ’s unconditional love of the church.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 11/29/20
Selected Scriptures from Romans 1 and Acts.
The opening chapter of Romans is in itself a master description of the gospel, however it begins in a way that is quite unexpected from a writer such as the great Apostle Paul. This Apostle, often referred to as a giant among the fathers in the faith, opens his letter with a great word of thankfulness to the church in city of Rome. Although he had never actually been to Rome, a journey that later would come in a very unexpected way through rather unfavorable conditions, he heard of their faith and deeply desired to meet the Roman brethren – a desire that he prayed might be fulfilled. He did this because he was so greatly encouraged by them.
It is a noteworthy thing to imagine someone like the Apostle Paul, a man who would have been considered one of the best encouragers of his day, needing such encouragement, but he did. Not only that, but he prayed that he might be able to make such a journey in order to impart a gift of encouragement in the faith to them. How amazing it is that Paul received genuine encouragement from the faithful believers in Rome, a city to which he had never been wherein was a church full of people he had never met.
Associate Pastor Connor Harris, Speaker.
This message was recorded on Tuesday Night, November 24, 2020.
Psalm 119:57-64.
In a year which seems to be one of the worst on record, and living in a world that seems to be getting worse by the day, how can a Christian live with thankfulness? Should we ever celebrate Thanksgiving this year? Or more importantly, are there even blessings of God worthy of thanks? These questions are all valid and the answers are more profound than they might seem.
The psalmist in Psalm 119 wrote diligently about his reasons for being thankful. One of the primary reasons is that God, the creator of all things, is the psalmist’s portion (or provision). In the ancient world, without a portion of land or property to your name, you were unlikely to survive very long. However, the psalmist did not see his relationship with God that way. He understood that, no matter what was happening in his life, no matter what he may have been lacking physically, he found peace and hope in the love of, not so much the provision, but the provider Himself – God.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive date: 11/22/20
“Living Skillfully in the Fear of God.” A series by Dr. Matt Thornton through the book of Proverbs.
One might expect the great King Solomon to begin his book with some deep spiritual insight. And while there is tremendous depth in the words in these verses, Solomon begins the core content of his book of Proverbs with a practical, but very profound, teaching about the dangers of peer pressure and greed. The question is, how could such a simple message be so profound? The answer lies in the commonality between these two subjects. Both greed and peer pressure have everything to do with how you view other people.
Scripture: Proverbs 1:8-19.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Recorded on Wednesday Night, November 18, 2020.
1 Corinthians 1.
Among the churches written to and about in the Bible, there is one which stands out as being probably the most problematic; the church at Corinth. Among the issues of this church, there was one issue that the Apostle Paul addresses first because it is the very foundation for all the rest of the problems in that church. People within the congregation began to become divided into factions primarily over certain teachers or preachers. Paul addresses this issue head-on with the challenge of the gospel. Paul says that he, as well as every other preacher who came there, came to preach one thing - the cross of Christ, which is the very power of God.
The issue that Paul had to address is sadly a continual problem in today's Christian culture. Oftentimes, Christians can gravitate towards the men of great faith because of their great ability to handling the Word of God, or their oratory skills. While admiration for such faithful men can be a healthy thing, it is dangerous to elevate them in our hearts and minds to a point where we forget the very Christ who gave them the very abilities they have. To follow the men and not God is to ignore the cross, which is foolishness.
Associate Pastor Doug Burch, Speaker.
This message was recorded at North Bryant Baptist Church in February 2019.
“Living Skillfully in the Fear of God.” A series by Dr. Matt Thornton through the book of Proverbs.
Wisdom seems to be getting less and less desirable in today’s world. Not only that, but people often look for it in all the wrong places. The Scripture tells us that wisdom comes directly from God. While that is certainly politically, culturally, and from a humanist perspective, incorrect, that is exactly what Solomon tells us.
But the access to wisdom is deeper than just knowing that it comes from God. In order to have wisdom, we must know the wisdom giver Himself. Wisdom is not about religion, but about a relationship – a relationship with the God of Creation. And that relationship begins with fearing him.
Scripture: Proverbs 1:7.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Recorded on Wednesday Night, November 11, 2020.
1 Peter 3:1-6.
“Salvation, Submission, Suffering.” A Study Through the First Epistle of Peter.
As Peter wraps up his discussion of Christ’s submission under unjust suffering, the theme of submission continues into the next chapter where he begins to talk about the home. Sometimes, when we are so focused on being submissive in patriotism, to being a good witness for Christ in the world, we can forget to be a good witness for Christ in our homes.
Peter begins this third chapter by writing out God’s glorious plan for the wife in the home. He gives examples of how this should be, beginning with the wife’s willfully submissive role to her husband. Peter then gives a remarkable scenario – one that certainly hit home for his readers and continues to do so today – which is that of the godly example that a new Christian wife can be for her pagan husband by her willful submission to him and to Christ.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 11/08/20
“Living Skillfully in the Fear of God.” A series by Dr. Matt Thornton through the book of Proverbs.
King Solomon begins his marvelous book of Proverbs stating the book’s five-fold purpose; to know wisdom, to understand words of insight, to receive instruction, to give prudence to the simple, and to understand a saying in order to carry out its implications. As the Lord inspired Solomon divinely to write these wonderful words of wisdom, the Christian should listen closely to these proverbial sayings, pray for understanding, and finally heed them. But this must begin with humility and the fear of God. Without these, the wisdom of God through Solomon will be unattainable. But with humility and fear, the people of God can become more like the Christ who made them.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Recorded on Wednesday Night, November 4, 2020.
1 Peter 2:22-25.
“Salvation, Submission, Suffering.” A Study Through the First Epistle of Peter.
Peter has been giving us examples of how we are to look more and more like God and not like the world even though we live in the world. While we live in this world as privileged pilgrims, even though we are part of a greater spiritual Kingdom, we are to submit willfully to those in authority over us because they have been appointed by God. When doing that, we often will face unjust suffering. This is especially true when Christians are living by the Word of God which is directly opposed to the sinful culture of today.
The submission that Peter has been discussing in this latter part of the second chapter comes to a glorious head in the greatest suffering that any human has ever experienced. It is greater than the suffering under unjust civil rulers and heavier than the hand of a master over a slave. The suffering of Jesus Christ is unlike any other. It not only was more painful in every conceivable way (physically, emotionally, spiritually) but Christ’s willful submission to it is the very reason we are able to receive the salvation He offers us – salvation so wondrous and perfect that once given, can never be lost.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 11/01/20
“Living Skillfully in the Fear of God.” A series by Dr. Matt Thornton through the book of Proverbs.
The book of Proverbs is incredibly full of marvelous wisdom from King Solomon, the son of King David. However, the wisdom found in this amazing book of pithy, memorable statements is from a much greater source and a much higher power. In the early chapters of First Kings, we learn that the entirety of King Solomon’s wisdom came from Almighty God. Therefore, the incredible wisdom in this book is actually a remarkable insight into the Christian life, and its contents tell us not only how to live, but it also points us to the giver of wisdom Himself.
Scripture: 1 Kings 3, 4.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Recorded on Wednesday Night, October 28, 2020.
1 Peter 2:18-21.
“Salvation, Submission, Suffering.” A Study Through the First Epistle of Peter.
In the ancient world, slavery was an unfortunate and bitter reality of life. In fact, was a major part of the economy in the Roman empire. It is estimated that one-third of the population of Rome were slaves as well as one-sixth of the empire as a whole. For a westerner thinking of this kind of slavery, it is easy to immediately rush to the racial slavery that existed in early America. But that was not the case for the ancient world. Whatever the reason, however, the act of buying, selling, and treating human beings as property is wrong.
Peter writes to his readers who understood this reality as a part of life. But his perspective is, perhaps, quite unexpected. Similarly to the submission to civil authority, Peter says that slaves should willingly submit to their masters, even to those masters who are unjust – with the greater principal in mind that Christians are blessed by God when persecuted for doing right. When Christians show grace, God looks on us graciously. And of course, the greatest example of a blessed righteous sufferer is that of the Savior of the world, Jesus Christ.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 10/25/20
Associate Pastor Connor Harris takes us through "The Dangers of Idolatry."
In today’s American culture, most people do not bow down to a wooden carving or a golden statue. The idolatry of today is much more subtle than that, and in some ways that makes it all the more dangerous to our spiritual health. Some of us often worship our goals in life, we put our families or our friends before God, we may put work or money before God, and sometimes we even put religious tradition ahead of God and worship those things instead of Him.
In Colossians 3, Paul lays out for us exactly how we are to overcome all these subversive idols, and particularly the number one idol – covetousness. When we submit ourselves to the Lordship of Christ over our lives, we begin the wondrous process of being conformed into His image. That means that we are being renewed to be like Him – and to be like God is indeed the only reality that is truly satisfying to the soul.
Scripture: Colossians 3.
Associate Pastor Connor Harris, Speaker.
Recorded on Wednesday Night, October 21, 2020.
1 Peter 2:13-17.
“Salvation, Submission, Suffering.” A Study Through the First Epistle of Peter.
One of the hottest topics of today’s world, and especially American culture, is the subject of submission – specifically submission to human institutions that have authority given by God. Throughout Scripture, God gives examples of people who willingly submitted to civil authority as well as those who understood the one exception – when the civil authority contradicts God’s command.
Peter says that submission to those in authority over us is one of the best examples of how Christians are to be different than the rebellious lost world. We are to submit willingly to those institutions because by doing that we are submitting to the will of our loving God. And all of this is to be done with the motivation of love for one another.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 10/18/20
Associate Pastor Connor Harris takes us through "The Dangers of Idolatry."
When Moses received the Law of God, the glory of God shined on Moses’s face and caused it to glow. Because of that, Moses would put a veil over his face so the shining glory would not be seen, presumably to not frighten the people. The problem is that the glory of the Law was fading, and by veiling his face, Moses disallowed the people from seeing that the glory of the Law was a fading glory. It was never meant to last forever but designed to point to the Savior.
Paul discusses this in his second letter to the Corinthians where he says that the new glory of the gospel is eternal. It does not fade. Even to this day, people who refuse to acknowledge the gospel have that same kind of veil (or blindness) over their hearts. Only through faith in Jesus Chris is that veil removed and the gospel made real in the heart.
Scripture: 2 Corinthians 3:12-4:6.
Associate Pastor Connor Harris, Speaker.
Recorded on Wednesday Night, October 14, 2020.
1 Peter 2:11-12. “Salvation, Submission, Suffering.” A Study Through the First Epistle of Peter. In the second century, Aristides of Athens wrote that the greatest evidence for the validity of the Christian faith is the Christian lifestyle. If he is right, then that means that every Christian has the ability within them, and the opportunity around them, to be the greatest reason for someone else to trust in Jesus as Savior. But that also means that if the lifestyle of a Christian is not in line with who they say they believe in, that is the primary reason for someone not to believe. In Peter’s letter, he writes that when people see the Christian, they ought to see the Christian lifestyle first. People ought to see the Christ we serve in us. As the privileged pilgrims we are (as those who do not belong to this world), Christians should not blend into the world but should indeed stand out because our faith is in the highest standard that exists – Jesus Christ and His life. Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker. Archive Date: 10/11/20
Associate Pastor Connor Harris takes us through "The Dangers of Idolatry."
When God created man, He made us inherently His image-bearers. Not only that, but we were designed to fulfill a higher purpose – to glorify Him, love Him, and worship Him with our whole lives. The problem came when man sinned fell short of the glory of God. We fell short of the purpose for which God designed us. The good news is that God did not give up on His creation, but He sent His Son – the perfect representation of Himself that we failed to be – to redeem us from our failure and sin.
Scriptures: Genesis 1; Romans 1, 3, & 8.
Associate Pastor Connor Harris, Speaker.
Recorded on Wednesday Night, October 7, 2020.
1 Peter 2:9-10.
“Salvation, Submission, Suffering.” A Study Through the First Epistle of Peter.
Before God reached out and called the children of Israel His own, they were not even a "people" - not even an organized group. And now, because of God’s marvelous grace, they are His people! This remarkable reality is also true for every Christian. As Christians, we are united as a holy people by the crucified and risen Savior, Jesus Christ. Therefore, we ought to look at examples in the Old Testament, and not just the successes, but the failures of God's people. From those mistakes, we can glean great lessons on what dangerous sins to avoid.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 10/04/20
Associate Pastor Connor Harris takes us through "The Dangers of Idolatry." The psalmist said in Psalm 115 that those who worship idols become like them. Throughout the Old Testament, we can see that unfortunate reality manifested in the people of Israel. They become like the idols they worship and thus fail to be who God designed them to be, and they fail to accomplish the divine purpose He gave them; to be a kingdom of priests to the surrounding nations.
Selected Scriptures from Hosea, Micah, and Isaiah.
Associate Pastor Connor Harris, Speaker.
Recorded on Wednesday Night, September 30, 2020.
Ezekiel 33.
During the Babylonian captivity, those who were left behind in Israel began to believe that God's judgment did not apply to them, or that they had successfully escaped God's judgment. Ezekiel, God's Watchman, earnestly warns the people that they are not outside God's watchful eye. From Ezekiel's example, we can learn so much about heeding God's warning, and that God always judges us on what we are doing for Him right now - there are no cheat days.
For us, today, living in an uncertain time, it is far too easy to slip into a sinful lifestyle and forget the work of God, living in sins of omission. We must be careful and listen to the Word of God and heed it because it warns us of this subtle danger.
Associate Pastor Doug Burch, Speaker.
Archive Date: 09/27/20
Associate Pastor Connor Harris takes us through "The Dangers of Idolatry." This is a timely series through the Old Testament and New Testament about what idols are like, how people who worship them become like them, what modern idolatry looks like, how Christians can guard against this sin, and what God has done to redeem us from our sin.
Scripture: Psalm 115.
Associate Pastor Connor Harris, Speaker.
Recorded on Wednesday Night, September 23, 2020.
Psalm 120
Sometimes in life, we are faced with enemies that we cannot conquer. Thankfully, Christians serve the God who is indeed the mighty Conquerer and Deliverer. In Psalm 120, the psalmist describes an enemy that he cannot overcome and the mighty warrior God who can.
Associate Pastor Connor Harris, Speaker.
Archive Date: 09/20/20
1 Peter 2:6-8.
“Salvation, Submission, Suffering.” A Study Through the First Epistle of Peter.
Before the foundation of the world, God elected Christ to be the chief cornerstone of His people. And everyone who believes in Him will never be disappointed in the power of God but will be instilled with the precious value of Christ’s sacrifice. However, for those who reject Him, that same stone that holds the entire structure of God’s people together will be a stone of offense - an insurmountable obstacle.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 09/13/20
1 Peter 2:4-5.
“Salvation, Submission, Suffering.” A Study Through the First Epistle of Peter.
Since Jesus is chosen by God as the cornerstone of His church, we are called by God to be living stones, offering spiritual sacrifices, not just on Sunday mornings, but daily.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 09/06/20
1 Peter 1:24-2:3
“Salvation, Submission, Suffering.” A Study Through the First Epistle of Peter.
Every Christian should desire to taste and see that the Lord is good. Do you crave the eternal Word of God? Does the love for God's truth rule in your life? Peter encourages his Christian readers to let their lives be, not only filled with the Word of God, but fully under its authority and power.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 08/30/20
1 Peter 1:22-23
“Salvation, Submission, Suffering.” A Study Through the First Epistle of Peter.
Since Christians have been made clean by our new birth in Jesus Christ, and since we are part of the family of God, we are called to love one another with earnest motives and purest hearts. This is all to be done because that is how God loves us.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 08/23/20
1 Peter 1:17-21.
“Salvation, Submission, Suffering.” A Study Through the First Epistle of Peter.
Because the Christian inheritance is perfect, imperishable, and eternal, and since time on earth is limited, we must take seriously the time with which we have been blessed to worship God and live as holy people of God. This holiness and hope is possible because of the predestined life, death, and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 08/16/20
1 Peter 1:13-16.
“Salvation, Submission, Suffering.” A Study Through the First Epistle of Peter.
The Christian hope is unlike any other hope because it is complete, and not halfhearted - looking ahead to the surety of Christ's return. And therefore, this Christian hope must be the driving force for holiness in the life of every Christian.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 08/09/20
Philippians 3:17-21.
When you decide to take on a task, refine a skill, or even pursue a career, it is always beneficial to look to someone better at that task than you. For Christians, it is always God's intention that we look to a good Christian example in a person who imitates Christ. Paul encourages the Philippians to look to him as that example.
Associate Pastor Connor Harris, Speaker.
Archive Date: 08/02/20
1 Peter 1:10-12
“Salvation, Submission, Suffering.” A Study Through the First Epistle of Peter.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 07/28/20
1 Peter 1:6-9.
“Salvation, Submission, Suffering.” A Study Through the First Epistle of Peter.
While things fall apart and the world is bursting at the seams with fear and danger, we have a living hope that is so powerful that it gives us what Peter calls "joy unspeakable," or "inexpressible and glory-filled joy." So, the question is, are you joyful?
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 07/19/20
1 Peter 1:3-5
“Salvation, Submission, Suffering.” A Study Through the First Epistle of Peter.
The word "hope" in today's culture usually has an idea of uncertainty attached to it, but the Hope described in the Scripture is not like that; it is one that is without any doubt whatsoever. It is described as being deathproof, sinproof, and timeproof because God is guarding it.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 07/12/20
1 Peter 1:1-2.
“Salvation, Submission, Suffering.” A Study Through the First Epistle of Peter.
Our God has elected those who would believe, according to His foreknowledge, to be pilgrims in this world. So, the trials we face should not make us doubt our relationship with Him but instead should remind us that our citizenship is in Heaven.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 06/28/20
Selected Scriptures
“Salvation, Submission, Suffering.” A Study Through the First Epistle of Peter.
The same Peter who denied his Lord and Savior wrote that we must give a defense to anyone who asks about our living hope. One of the greatest spiritual transformations in Scripture is certainly that of the Apostle Peter, a man who is living proof of the wonderful life-changing grace of Almighty God.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker
Archive Date: 06/28/20
Galatians 3:26-4:7.
What better day than Father's Day to celebrate the love of our Heavenly Father and our adoption as sons and heirs with Christ.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive: 06/21/20
John chapters 3, 7, 19.
In one defining conversation, Jesus turns the entire theological world of the great teacher Nicodemus completely upside down. In the three places John mentions Nicodemus, it is clear to see that there was a spectacular process of growth in his life - a change that can only be explained by the Spirit of God working in him.
Pastor Matt Thronton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 06/14/20
Habakkuk 3:16-19.
The lesson of Habakkuk is so modern because we find ourselves in troublesome times in today's world just as Habakkuk did. When we have questions, when we do not understand what God is doing, we must humbly take our questions to God in prayer, and then, like Habakkuk, live faithfully and wait patiently for God to fulfill every promise He has ever made.
Pastor Matt Thronton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 06/07/20
Habakkuk 3:1-15.
Habakkuk writes a beautiful psalm to end his prophecy. But unlike many who pray selfishly without any thankfulness for God provision, Habakkuk chooses to ask for little and to praise God for what His righteous judgment on the wicked and His wondrous mercy on His children - past, present, and future.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 05/31/20
Habakkuk 2:15-20.
Unlike the loud and unprofitable cries to false gods full of false hope, worship of the true God demands reverential silence within us, encompassed by standing in awe before His ominous wrath and His awesome glory.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 05/54/20
Habakkuk 2:5-14.
Greed is never satisfied by attaining enough wealth, and although the greed of the Chaldeans would be to the devastation of Israel for a time, God ultimately gets all the glory and He is the one in control.
"The Righteous Shall Live by Faith."
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 05/17/20
Habakkuk 2:2-4.
Even when we are weary and struggling to understand God's plan, the righteous must not waver in their faith. We must remain faithful in serving God.
"The Righteous Shall Live by Faith."
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 05/10/20
Genesis 16.
When Hagar was caught in a situation beyond her control, fleeing from the cruel actions of her mistress, God reached out in love to Hagar and made her a promise to provide for her.
This message was recorded on May 13, 2018.
Associate Pastor Connor Harris, Speaker.
From the beginning of His life to His final breaths, Jesus shows us the perfect example of God's love by loving His mother.
This message was recorded on May 12, 2019.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker
1 Samuel 1:1-18
In a time when nearly everyone was doing what was right in their own eyes, a godly young woman named Hannah submitted herself to the Lord with a prayer for a child who she could give to the Lord.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker
Archive Date: 01/15/17
Habakkuk 1:12-2:1
Knowledge does not necessarily eliminate all the questions. Sometimes even the answers God gives are hard to understand.
“The Righteous Shall Live by Faith”
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker
Archive Date: 05/03/20
Habakkuk 1:5-11
Even when the answers we find are tougher than the questions we ask, God is still in control.
“The Righteous Shall Live by Faith”
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker
Archive Date: 04/26/20
Habakkuk 1:1-4
In the midst of a time he did not understand, Habakkuk had the courage to ask God the difficult questions and the faith to accept the tough answers. What he learned, and what all of us can learn, is that "the just shall live by faith" (Hab. 2:4).
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker
Archive Date: 04/19/20
During the time of the COVID-19 pandemic, North Bryant has continued to safely preach the Word through livestreaming our services.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker
Archive date: 04/12/20
During the time of the COVID-19 pandemic, North Bryant has continued to safely preach the Word through livestreaming our services.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker
Archive date: 04/05/20
During the time of the COVID-19 pandemic, North Bryant has continued to safely preach the Word through livestreaming our services.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker
Archive date: 03/29/20
During the time of the COVID-19 pandemic, North Bryant has continued to safely preach the Word through livestreaming our services.
Associate Pastor Doug Burch, Speaker.
Please note this message was recorded before the coronavirus outbreak.
Archive Date: 03/22/20
During the time of the COVID-19 pandemic, North Bryant has continued to safely preach the Word through livestreaming our services.
Bro. Todd Self, Speaker.
Please note that this is a prerecorded message.
Archive Date: 03/15/20
“Consistent Faith”
A study through the letter of James.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 03/08/20
“Consistent Faith”
A study through the letter of James.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 03/01/20
“Consistent Faith”
A study through the letter of James.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 02/26/20
“Consistent Faith”
A study through the letter of James.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 02/16/20
“Consistent Faith”
A study through the letter of James.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 02/09/20
“Consistent Faith”
A study through the letter of James.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 02/02/20
“Consistent Faith”
A study through the letter of James.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 01/26/20
“Consistent Faith”
A study through the letter of James.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 01/19/20
“Consistent Faith”
A study through the letter of James.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 01/12/20
“Consistent Faith”
A study through the letter of James.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 01/05/19
Another year has gone by and Christ has yet to return. Will He actually return as He promised His disciples He would? Bro. Connor Harris, Speaker. Archive Date: 12/29/19
"Like a playwright who directs and stars in His own play, the author of the universe stepped into His creation to play the leading role as Jesus Christ."
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 12/22/19
“Consistent Faith”
A study through the letter of James.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 12/15/19
“Consistent Faith”
A study through the letter of James.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 12/08/19
“Consistent Faith”
A study through the letter of James.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 12/01/19
“Consistent Faith”
A study through the letter of James.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 11/17/19
“Consistent Faith”
A study through the letter of James.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 11/10/19
“Consistent Faith”
A study through the letter of James.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 11/03/19
“Consistent Faith”
A study through the letter of James.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 10/27/19
“Consistent Faith”
A study through the letter of James.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 10/20/19
“Consistent Faith”
A study through the letter of James.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 10/13/19
“Consistent Faith”
A study through the letter of James.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 10/06/19
“Consistent Faith”
A study through the letter of James.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 09/29/19
“Consistent Faith”
A study through the letter of James.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 09/22/19
“Consistent Faith”
A study through the letter of James.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 09/15/19
“Consistent Faith”
A study through the letter of James.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 09/08/19
“Consistent Faith”
A study through the letter of James.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 09/01/19
“Consistent Faith”
A study through the letter of James.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 08/25/19
“Consistent Faith”
A study through the letter of James.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive Date: 08/18/19
“Consistent Faith.”
A study through the letter of James.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Archive date: 08/11/19
1 Samuel 31
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Cartoon art designed by Carrie Hill.
Archive Date: 01/07/18
1 Samuel 30:7-31
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Cartoon art designed by Carrie Hill.
Archive Date: 12/03/17
1 Samuel 29:1-30:6
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Cartoon art designed by Carrie Hill.
Archive Date: 11/26/17
1 Samuel 28:1-25
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Cartoon art designed by Carrie Hill.
Archive Date: 11/19/17
1 Samuel 27:1-12
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Cartoon art designed by Carrie Hill.
Archive Date: 11/12/17
1 Samuel 25:14-44
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Cartoon art designed by Carrie Hill.
Archive Date: 11/05/17
1 Samuel 25:14-44
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Cartoon art designed by Carrie Hill.
Archive Date: 10/29/17
1 Samuel 25:1-13
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Cartoon art designed by Carrie Hill.
Archive Date: 10/15/17
1 Samuel 24
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Cartoon art designed by Carrie Hill.
Archive Date: 10/08/17
1 Samuel 23:14-28
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Cartoon art designed by Carrie Hill.
Archive Date: 10/01/17
1 Samuel 23:1-13
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Cartoon art designed by Carrie Hill.
Archive Date: 09/24/17
1 Samuel 22:6-23
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Cartoon art designed by Carrie Hill.
Archive Date: 09/10/17
1 Samuel 22:1-5
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Cartoon art designed by Carrie Hill.
Archive Date: 09/03/17
1 Samuel 21:10-15
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Cartoon art designed by Carrie Hill.
Archive Date: 08/27/17
1 Samuel 21:1-10
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Cartoon art designed by Carrie Hill.
Archive Date: 08/20/17
1 Samuel 20:1-42
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Cartoon art designed by Carrie Hill.
Archive Date: 08/13/20
1 Samuel 19:18-24
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Cartoon art designed by Carrie Hill.
Archive Date: 07/30/17
1 Samuel 19:1-18
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Cartoon art designed by Carrie Hill.
Archive Date: 07/23/17
1 Samuel 18:17-30
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Cartoon art designed by Carrie Hill.
Archive Date: 07/16/17
1 Samuel 18:1-16
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Cartoon art designed by Carrie Hill.
Archive Date: 07/02/17
1 Samuel 17:1-32
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Cartoon art designed by Carrie Hill.
Archive Date: N/A
1 Samuel 17:33-58
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Cartoon art designed by Carrie Hill.
Archive Date: N/A
1 Samuel 1:14-23
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Cartoon art designed by Carrie Hill.
Archive Date: 06/18/17
1 Samuel 16:1-13
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Cartoon art designed by Carrie Hill.
Archive Date: 06/11/17
1 Samuel 15:12-35
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Cartoon art designed by Carrie Hill.
Archive Date: 06/04/17
1 Samuel 15:1-11
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Cartoon art designed by Carrie Hill.
Archive Date: 05/28/17
1 Samuel 14:24-52
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Cartoon art designed by Carrie Hill.
Archive Date: 05/21/17
1 Samuel 13:15-14:23
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Cartoon art designed by Carrie Hill.
Archive Date: 05/14/17
1 Samuel 13:1-14
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Cartoon art designed by Carrie Hill.
Archive Date: 05/07/17
1 Samuel 11:14-12:25
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Cartoon art designed by Carrie Hill.
Archive Date: 04/30/17
1 Samuel 11:1-13
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Cartoon art designed by Carrie Hill.
Archive Date: 04/23/17
1 Samuel 10:17-27
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Cartoon art designed by Carrie Hill.
Archive Date: 04/16/17
1 Samuel 9:26-10:16
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Cartoon art designed by Carrie Hill.
Archive Date: 04/09/17
1 Samuel 9:1-24
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Cartoon art designed by Carrie Hill.
Archive Date: 04/02/17
1 Samuel 8:1-22
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Cartoon art designed by Carrie Hill.
Archive Date: 03/26/17
1 Samuel 7:2-17
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Cartoon art designed by Carrie Hill.
Archive Date: 03/12/17
1 Samuel 6:13-7:1
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Cartoon art designed by Carrie Hill.
Archive Date: 03/05/17
1 Samuel 6:1-12
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Cartoon art designed by Carrie Hill.
Archive Date: 02/26/17
1 Samuel 5:1-12
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Cartoon art designed by Carrie Hill.
Archive Date: 02/19/17
1 Samuel 4:1b-22
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Cartoon art designed by Carrie Hill.
Archive Date: 02/12/17
1 Samuel 3:1-4:1a
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Cartoon art designed by Carrie Hill.
Archive Date: 02/05/17
1 Samuel 2:12-36
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Cartoon art designed by Carrie Hill.
Archive Date: 01/29/17
1 Samuel 1:19-2:11
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Cartoon art designed by Carrie Hill.
Archive Date: 01/22/17
1 Samuel 1:1-18.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Cartoon art designed by Carrie Hill.
Archive Date: 01/15/17
Romans 15, and other Selected Scriptures.
In today's world, even among some so-called Christian sects, the Old Testament is often considered to be irrelevant. On the contrary, the entirety of Scripture, including the Old Testament, is the only thing that makes followers of Christ relevant at all. One of the greatest and most loved narratives in the Old Testament is First Samuel, because it tells the story of the first kings of Israel and the remarkable providence of God in the lives of three men; the prophet Samuel, King Saul, and a young man David.
Pastor Matt Thornton, Speaker.
Cartoon art by Carrie Hill.
Archive Date: 01/08/17