The Bible Church: Recent Episodes
SUNDAY SCHOOL - Noah King SUNDAY SERMON - Nathan Swanson This Lord's Day, our pastor will be continue preaching today with a sermon titled, "A Tale of Two Powers".
This sermon explores the context surrounding the first Christians. The believers in Antioch earned themselves a name. They were called "Christians" for a reason, and this study explores the possible reasons for this while considering practical applications for the church today.
This sermon continues our study of Luke's longest narrative in Acts. Here, we see several truths Peter recognized that showed him the gospel was truly for everyone. The significance of this text is that it relates how the gospel first came to the Gentiles.
This study examines the first part of what is the longest narrative in Acts. This story was clearly important to Luke. Our study explains why, examining Cornelius' vision, Peter's vision, and how Peter responded. Ultimately, Luke is showing us Christ's inclusiveness to save all who believe, Jew or Gentile.
This sermon centers on the transformative power of Jesus' resurrection, revealed through Peter's miraculous healings of Aeneas and Tabitha. These miracles display Christ's power to restore both physical and spiritual life. We also saw how Jesus can work His power through imperfect instruments (like us) to demonstrate His authority over death and paralysis—both physical and spiritual.
The sermon examines how God prepared the world's greatest missionary for useful ministry. Saul's preparation illustrates how God prepares His chosen vessels for divine service through four interconnected means: immediate employment, nurturing in obscurity, fortification through adversity, and preservation within community.
This sermon examines God's sovereign saving grace in Saul's conversion. While not every Christian can say they have had quite so dramatic a "Damascus road experience," yet the grace that saved Saul is the same that saves any sinner.
This text gives us an anatomy of true conversion in the story of the Ethiopian eunuch. Our study follows how it is God sovereignly prepares a soul for salvation and how He uses gospel proclamation to bring about conversion. The study concludes with a look at the product of a true conversion.
This sermon examines the sobering reality that not all conversions are genuine. Luke illustrates this fact in the tragedy of Simon Magnus. Our study follows four scenes that unfold Simon's case and offer a biblical perspective on false conversion.
This Lord's Day continues our series of messages from the book of Colossians with a message titled "Living Out the Gospel" (Colossians 3:18-4:1).
The gospel is not only true; it is good and beautiful. In this final lesson on narrative apologetics we explore how Christianity tells a better story of reality in light of its goodness and beauty. As controversial as this claim is in our culture, we can see for ourselves Christianity's beauty in how it has transformed our world.
SUNDAY SCHOOL-PASTOR NATHAN This morning, Pastor Nathan will continue his series in narrative apologetics. Today's lesson is the 8th in the series, titled: "The Story that Remade our World." SUNDAY SERMON-PASTOR KEVIN This Lord's Day will continue our series of messages from the book of Colossians with a message titled "Clothed with Christ" Colossians 3:12-17
This lesson continues the previous week's model of engaging false narratives. Our review covers how to subversively fulfill a false metanarrative and a micro-narrative. But many people will not give us an actual story. So we explored how we may engage the non-believer's worldview when all we have to go on is a worldview theme.
This Lord's Day we continued our series of messages from the book of Colossians with a message titled "Repentance in the Church" from Colossians 3:5-11.
This lesson begins with a criterion for showing how one "story of reality" can be judged better than another. We then spend the rest of the class discussing a strategy for subversive fulfillment. This is a simultaneously negative and positive approach to the non-believer's story. The case studies we work through show how practical this is.
This Lord's Day, we continued our series of messages from the book of Colossians with a message titled "The Newness of Life in Christ" from Colossians 3:1-4.
This Lord's Day we continued our series of messages from the book of Colossians with a message titled "Freedom in Christ" from Colossians 2:16-23.
This lesson stresses the need to contextualize the gospel through intentional, Christ-centered listening and honest engagement with non-believers' worldviews. We explore biblical habits for listening as well as how to analyze the stories we hear, mapping storylines and identifying plot holes.
In this Easter sermon, we examine three scenes from Matthew's Gospel. Matthew's Gospel presents some extended scenes of Jesus' resurrection that are not found in the other New Testament Gospels. So in this study, we examine these scenes and the vital truths they tell us.
This study acknowledges the fact that sharing the gospel can be awkward and hardly intelligible to some people in our culture. Drawing on biblical examples, we explore what are necessary "supports" for our gospel narrative as well as three helpful strategies for communicating the gospel as a most meaningful story.
This Sunday Pastor Kevin continued his series from the book of Colossians titled "Suffering for the Gospel" from Colossians 1:24-2:5.
The Christian story is the ultimate story of reality. In addition to examining the power of story itself, this study examines how Christianity's story is the greatest story ever as well as the basic content of this timeless story. We ended our time by practicing sharing this story with one another.
This Sunday Pastor Kevin continues his series from the book of Colossians titled "Reconciliation in Christ" in Colossians 1:15-23.
This lesson examines Paul's ministry in Athens as a model for doing worldview apologetics. This has been called an "inside out" approach because of how Paul effectively engaged the Athenians. He begins inside their worldview and leads them out to his own. The model is especially relevant for our own biblically illiterate and indifferent society.
Pastor Kevin preached this sermon from Colossians 1:9-14 with a message titled "Praying With Paul."
This class introduces narrative apologetics as a practical, gospel-centered way to engage our culture using the power of story to communicate Christianity's unique truth, goodness, and beauty. All people have a "story of reality." Narrative apologetics invites nonbelievers to reflect on their own story and to compare it with the Christian story, which holds a uniquely true and satisfying account of reality.
Pastor Kevin preached this sermon from Colossians 1:1-8 with a message titled "Thankful for the Church."
This study examines how great persecution, beginning with Stephen's martyrdom, scattered the church from Jerusalem into Judea and Samaria. What Luke here shows is how Christ's enemies inadvertently become His instruments for advancing the gospel.
Stephen's defense before the Sanhedrin models what it means to be a faithful apologist. This is part 2 of a two-part study of Stephen's defense. It calls every believer to know the truth, love it more than life, and live it courageously, even in the face of death, as a testimony to the power of the gospel.
Acts 7 presents Stephen's defense before the Sanhedrin. In this first half of our two-part study of Stephen's defense, we begin following his argument's four stages in Hebrew history. His argument also subtly dismantles the religious pride of his audience by showing that Israel's patriarchs were flawed while presenting God's deliverance through Jesus in some well-known Christ-figures.
When Stephen's accusers stop and look at his face, they realize he's glowing with the radiant love and grace of Christ. Life will at times engulf us in darkness. How can we, like Stephen, "glow" for Jesus in the dark?
In this study, we examine how the church experienced growing pains that threatened to rip her apart and how she pulled together in the midst of this division to become even stronger. By God's grace, what doesn't kill the church, makes her stronger!
Christ promised to build His church; He said the very gates of hell would fall before her advance. The world is still trying to stop Christ's church, but it cannot stop the church any more than it can command the waves. In this text, Luke displays an unstoppable church. Note: Due to severe weather, this service was held the evening of Saturday, Jan 24, 2026, in lieu of our Sunday morning service.
It is one thing to know that God is always providentially at work in our world. But Scripture focuses on how God is uniquely at work in His redeemed people. In this passage from Acts 5, we examine four distinct signs that God is uniquely at work in His covenant people.
The study explores the tragedy of Ananias and Sapphira. It is not that they lacked generosity so much that they lacked authenticity. God will not tolerate counterfeit spirituality in His church. He sees beyond appearances to our very heart condition. This text is jarring, though, when read in context, it also reminds us of God's grace.
This passage presents a vision of authentic Christian community. This community is rooted in genuine gospel conviction, advances Spirit-empowered gospel witness, and demonstrates a radical generosity that can only be produced and sustained by the gospel of Christ.
In this chapter, John records a strange and most spectacular vision of Jesus Christ. It is a vision that commands our utmost devotion to Christ. In this study, we explore three reasons from John's vision that Christ is uniquely worthy of our utmost devotion.
As important as it is to learn how to give gifts to others this Christmas season, it is also important that we learn how to receive gifts. Many will give gifts this Christmas, but they've no idea how to receive the greatest gift ever. Thankfully, we have in the Virgin Mary a tremendous model for how to respond to God's greatest gift.
This Lord's day message was brought by Pastor Kevin from the Book of Philemon, titled "Charge That To My Account" from Philemon 17-25.
In this final study in contemporary ethics, we consider Christianity's relationship to politics. We begin by establishing a Christian understanding of civil government, a Christian's civil responsibilities, and the relationship between church and state. For case studies, we discuss Christian nationalism and the rise of totalitarian Islam.
This Lord's day message is brought to us by Pastor Kevin from the Book of Philemon and is titled "Forgiving a Brother in Christ" from Philemon 8-16.
This lecture presents a Christian ethical framework for addressing two pressing contemporary issues: environmental stewardship and the rise of artificial intelligence. It is important that Christians understand how and where these issues draw on non-Christian worldviews.
This study examines the issues of homosexuality and transgenderism from a Christian worldview perspective. While acknowledging the reality of same-sex attraction and gender dysphoria, we cover a Christian response that is true to both Scripture and natural law.
This Lord's day message will be brought to us by Pastor Kevin from the Book of Philemon, titled "A Letter to a Friend" from Philemon 1:1-7
This Lord's day message is brought to us by Pastor Kevin from the Book of Colossians, titled "Ten Thanksgiving Testimonies" from Colossians 4:7-18.
This study offers a gracious but thorough critique of Critical Theory from a Christian perspective. Christians need to be prepared to give an answer to this sort of folly. The rest of the study then examines feminism, its history and development, and ultimately offers a critique that shows how feminism has not been good for either the church or the world.
In this study, we conclude our examination of bioethics by considering end-of-life decisions, both what our culture has to say about it and a Christian way of approaching these most difficult decisions. The rest of class then pivots to exploring Critical Theory, its historical development and exactly what it is in its own terms. The aim to properly understand it will be to properly critique it in our next lesson.
The sermon centers on the biblical imperative to imitate godly behavior while rejecting those who promote evil, drawing from 3 John 9–15 to contrast harmful and godly examples. It highlights the danger of following individuals like Diotrephes, who prioritizes personal authority, rejects apostolic teaching, and excludes others from the church, illustrating how pride and self-seeking corrupt community life. In contrast, the passage commends Demetrius, whose life exemplifies integrity and receives universal testimony, embodying the kind of character worthy of imitation. The preacher emphasizes that true discipleship involves discernment—choosing to follow those who walk in truth and love, not those who disrupt unity through arrogance and malice. Ultimately, the message calls believers to intentional, Christ-centered imitation, grounded in Scripture and guided by spiritual wisdom.
This Lord's day message is brought to us by Pastor Kevin from the Book of 3rd John, titled "Open your Doors" from 3 John 1-8.
This Lord's day message is brought to us by Pastor Kevin from Psalm 7, titled "From Anxiety to Assurance."
Too many evangelicals have been in the dark when it comes to conviction on contemporary bioethical issues. In this study, we continue examining bioethics in terms of embryonic stem cell research (ESCR), assisted reproductive technology (namely, IVF), and end-of-life decisions.
In this study in 2nd John, we examine the need to exercise discretion in our dealings with false teachers and any that they may lead us astray from Christ.
Christian must defend the rights of the unborn for the fact they are human persons created in God's image. In this study, we examine the issue of abortion through the lens of God's natural law, addressing the deeper philosophical question and also a variety of practical questions involved.
This Lord's day message will be brought to us by Pastor Kevin from the Second Epistle of John, titled "Nothing New."
This study reviews Christianity's worldview foundation for ethics and then examines the church's "moral battleground" in terms of moral relativism. Christians must stand and defend the moral absolutes of God's Word.
The class concludes a five-part series on discipleship (inspired by 9Marks). The study emphasizes that the ultimate goal discipleship is not merely conversion, but the lifelong process of spiritual maturity leading to glorification.
Anyone can be courageous. This text demonstrates how that God wants to make His people courageous for Christ.
This study examines the compelling motivation behind Peter and John's Christian witness and shows us how we too can be compelled to speak for Jesus.
This is Pastor Aquila Darimani's presentation of what God is doing in the Upper West Region of Ghana, West Africa.
The study emphasizes the crucial role of imitation in Christian discipleship, asserting that learning from godly examples is as vital as formal instruction. Drawing from passages in 1 Corinthians and 2 Timothy, it highlights the importance of seeking out mentors, actively teaching one another, and cultivating relationships where truth is spoken in love to foster spiritual growth and maturity within the church community. Ultimately, the message encourages believers to both emulate virtuous role models and to actively contribute to the discipleship of others, recognizing that mutual encouragement and accountability are essential for becoming fully formed in Christ.
This study examines Peter and John's faith on trial. In turn, Luke shows us that authentic Christian faith is a disruptive force that challenges false religion, experiences God's power, and proclaims the exclusive gospel of salvation through Jesus Christ alone.
The class emphasizes that genuine discipleship stems from a deep understanding of God's character, actions, and promises, rather than a mere sense of obligation. Drawing from Colossians 3, the message highlights motivations such as recognizing our new life in Christ, anticipating future glory, and embracing God's forgiveness, all of which should fuel a desire to put off sinful behaviors and actively pursue holiness. The speaker encourages listeners to examine their own motivations for spiritual growth, rejecting approaches rooted in earning favor or seeking external validation, and instead cultivating a heart of compassion, kindness, and humility, ultimately mirroring Christ's example.
In this text, Peter gives the meaning behind the miracle he's just performed in Jesus' name. Peter's message lacks P.C.. Preaching this sermon would have required an immense amount of courage. This study unpacks the many glorious truths of Peter's God-inspired sermon.
This beautiful story shows how our miracle-working God transformed a broken life. It is a story that offers wonderful lessons and insights for our own time.
Using discipleship materials from 9Marks, Pastor Kevin begins this discipleship class by discussing the need and definition of discipleship.
The sermon highlights the biblical model of a thriving church. Churches need to pursue faithfulness to God's word and a genuine expression of love among believers, rather than merely following the trends of contemporary culture.
In this passage from Acts 2, Peter explains how it is that God Himself proved Jesus to be both Lord and Christ. So clear is this fact that Peter says we must know it for certain. And nothing could be more important than what a person believes about Jesus Christ.
This study examines the Holy Spirit's outpouring. From these verses, we discuss Joel's ancient prophecy, and what the Lord means by the last days, dreams and visions, the outpouring of His Spirit, and the final judgment described.
The study explores pretty much gives believers a crash course on everything one needs to know about the gift of tongues in order to steer clear of today's confusion on the topic.
The study shows how the Church is God's program. Scripture and history offer marvelous proof that God was all over the start of His Church in terms of its timing and the miracles that accompanied its birth.
The study explores the unremarkable period between Jesus' ascension and the coming of the Holy Spirit. Here we see small people, in a small place, doing what the world considers a small work. But this is all a part of God's grand plan.
The lesson emphasizes the practical and ongoing need for evangelism, reminding believers that sharing the gospel is a fundamental responsibility rooted in Jesus' final command to make disciples. This lesson also underscores the importance of tailoring our approach according to where people are in their spiritual journey and patiently guiding them to see their need for salvation in Christ.
The sermon emphasizes the transformative power of seeing others as souls in need of reconciliation, rooted in the profound love and sacrifice demonstrated through Christ.
This lecture examines the resurgence of a new spirituality (which is actually very old), sometimes called neo-paganism. In discussing the history, beliefs, and appeal of this rising movement, we ultimately examine how to address the individuals who represent it.
The sermon emphasizes cultivating a healthy church through eight interconnected steps, culminating in actively greeting others. The speaker underscores the significance of supporting one another, providing for needs, and seeking authentic relationships, drawing on examples from Scripture to illustrate the value of mutual care and encouragement, ultimately reflecting God's blueprint for a thriving community of faith.
This lecture examines secularism as a worldview, arguing it functions as a religious system despite lacking traditional religious structures. The study culminates in offering a Biblical approach for how to approach today's secularist.
The sermon emphasizes the importance of cultivating a healthy church by embracing both positive actions and avoiding detrimental behaviors. Drawing from Titus, it highlights the need for submission to authority, demonstrating kindness, and appreciating the transformative power of the gospel, which stems from God's mercy and the sacrifice of Jesus. Conversely, it cautions against engaging in frivolous disputes, rejecting divisive individuals, and ultimately, striving for a life of godliness motivated by gratitude for salvation and a hopeful anticipation of eternal life.
Since cults continually infiltrate our culture, this lecture explores the nature of cults, including their characteristics and appeal. We also discuss a Biblical approach for compassionately engaging those trapped in cults.
SUNDAY SCHOOL-PASTOR NATHAN This Sunday at 10am Pastor Nathan will be continuing his new course called "Truth in a World of False Religion." Today's lecture is lecture #6. This class will aim to give students a framework for evaluating false belief systems according to the Bible. Today lesson is called "The Cults". SUNDAY SERMON-PASTOR KEVIN This Lord's Day Pastor Kevin will continue his series on the book of Titus. Today's message is titled: "Acknowledging Gods Grace." Titus 2:11-15.
This Lord's Day Pastor Kevin continues his series on the book of Titus. This message is titled "Abiding in Good Deeds."
Islam is a missionary religion that aims to conquer the world. In the West, Muslims are also trained in polemics with how to attack the Christian faith. So it is needful for Christians to understand and Biblically respond to Islam.
Today's Judaism is a false religion that rejects Jesus as the Messiah. In this lecture, we explore Judaism's development from ancient to modern times, as well as the obstacles to Jewish faith in Christ and how Christians ought to approach Jewish nonbelievers.
This Lord's Day Pastor Kevin will continue his series on the book of Titus. Today's message is from Titus 1:10-16 and is titled "Adorning Ourselves in Godliness."
This lecture begins our series of case studies in false religion with the Eastern religions—namely the two most prominent: Hinduism and Buddhism. We'll also study why these religions are so appealing to Westerners and how we may Biblically respond to those who hold these beliefs.
This Lord's Day Pastor Kevin continues his series on the book of Titus. Today's message is titled: "Admonishing Greedy Men." Titus 1:10-16
This Lord's Day Pastor Kevin will continue his series on the book of Titus. Today's message is titled: "Appointing Guardians." Titus 1:5-9
This study examines different perspectives on how to compare religion (pluralism, inclusivism, and exclusivism), ultimately asking, "What does the Bible say?" We also discuss what all religious devotees have in common and how Christianity remains unique.
This Sunday, Nathan will be starting a new Bible institute course called "Truth in a World of False Religion." This class will aim to give students a framework for evaluating false belief systems according to the Bible.
This Lord's Day Pastor Kevin start a new series on the book of Titus. He gives us an introduction to the book with a message titled: "Introduction to Titus" Titus 1:1-4
Jesus' disciples were once filled with sorrow to think of Him leaving. But Luke 24 says they were rejoicing to see Him ascend to heaven. What changed the disciples' attitude toward Jesus' departure? They understood what Jesus' ascension meant, and we need to know this as well!
This study examines Jesus' last words to His disciples while He was yet on earth. It was His final briefing for His disciples before launching them into the world. Our study will examine the Trinitarian nature of Jesus' final briefing.
Pastor Kevin brings us his 5th lesson on his serious on evangelism titled: "What Kind of Missions should churches support?"
Cheap alternatives may not be all that bad when it comes to jewelry, food, clothing. But it's a fatal exchange when what you're dealing with is "the Christian Faith"! That's why this book matters so much. Acts brings us back to the authentic roots of our faith in Christ.
Lesser known of that first Easter is what happened later that Sunday afternoon. Luke's story draws attention to a strong correlation between the eyes and the heart—between what we see and what we believe. It's a fascinating account of how Jesus brings two of His disciples from blindness to belief.
In this Good Friday message, we examine "The Great Exchange," because what we see at the cross is the greatest exchange to ever take place! After exploring what Christ's suffering has to do with our salvation, this study features a demonstration of what Christ did for us on the cross.
Pastor Kevin gives us a Message for baptisms titled "Dear New Believer" Colossians 2:8-12.
Paul concludes his letter to the Philippians by thanking the Philippians once more for being God's instrument for providing his needs. He then assures them that they can count on God to meet their needs.
Pastor Kevin continues his class on missions/missionaries with our third lesson titled: "What do Missionaries do?"
Like peace, contentment doesn't just happen. Contentment is something you must learn. And learning the secret of contentment is indispensable to living a happy life. So how can the Christian learn to be content? Paul here explains.
This lecture continues our Missions class. Lesson 2 is titled: "What is a church and what is its mission?"
This Lord's Day, we will be in Paul's letter to the Romans. This study will remind us of God's Providence in the Pain. Today's message is from Romans 8:28-29
This Sunday we will begin our Missions class. Lesson 1 is titled: "Is Missions just a New Testament Thing?"
SUNDAY SCHOOL-PASTOR KEVIN This Sunday we will continue our series about evangelism- "Reaching the Lost." Lesson 6 is titled: "What does the church have to do with Evangelism?" SUNDAY SERMON-PASTOR NATHAN This Lord's Day, we will continue in Paul's letter to the Philippians. This study will remind us to be Thankful and put into Practice in the Gospel. Today's message is titled: "Habits of Perfect Peace." from Philippians 4:1-9
Every Christian must wrestle with anxiety. But the Bible is clear that any genuine Christian can presently enjoy God's perfect peace. In this text, Paul leaves us seven habits for cultivating God's perfect peace.
This Sunday continued our series in evangelism on "Reaching the Lost." This lecture is the 5th lesson of the series, and is part 3 of the lecture "How Should We Evangelize?"
After describing how he was running life's race, Paul next tells us not only to follow his example, but that we must do so because "our citizenship is in heaven." Heavenly citizens have duties to the heavenly King. In verses 17-21, Paul highlights three duties of a heavenly citizen.
All of us are running life's race. But not everyone will win the prize. Paul's point in this text is that if we (like him) are gonna follow Christ, then we must approach life like a runner approaches a race. In these verses, Paul shows us how to run life's race.
In this text, Paul looks back on all that he valued before coming to Christ, only to conclude, "It's now worth nothing to me." Paul wants us to live for what ultimately matters, and he claims what ultimately counts in life is knowing Jesus Christ.
This Sunday School lesson from Pastor Kevin is part 1 of a lesson on how we should evangelize.
This Sunday School lesson is from Pastor Kevin continuing on the series about evangelism--"Reaching the lost." This lesson is titled Why we should Evangelize?
Paul's just told us to embrace the mindset of Christ and to put our salvation to work. Now he says—"and if want a contemporary example of what this looks like—look at Timothy — look at Epaphroditus, contemporary exemplars of Christ-like service."
This is the start of a new series on "Reaching the Lost." Lesson 1 is titled "Who Should Evangelize?"
If God has begun a work of salvation in you, then God is calling you to put your salvation to work—right here, right now—in His church. In this study, we examine five guidelines for how you must put your salvation to work.
This is the final lesson in our series on Christology. It discussed "The Offices of Christ" as Prophet, Priest, and King.
Having urged the church to strive together for the faith of the gospel, Paul now gives special attention the need for unity in the church. He targets the obstacle to such unity and also provides what is the ultimate example in Jesus Christ.
This Bible study is brought by Pastor Kevin Lopez, continuing our series on Christology. Lesson 4 is titled "Resurrection and Ascension."
Paul's life was about the gospel. One can hardly even think of Paul without thinking of the gospel of Christ. So as was true of his own life, Paul now charges his Christian readers to only live in a way that reflects well on the gospel.
The reader might like to know how Paul's rejoicing in the midst of his situation (his chains and the criticism he received) is not an irrational response? In this passage, Paul will give us the basis for his rejoicing. His life is a life that wins. And so is the life of anyone living for Christ.
Pastor Kevin here continues our series on Christology, part two of "The Person of Christ."
This text shows us someone who put hardship into perspective because he was all about advancing the gospel whatever his situation. If we are going to advance the cause of Christ, we need to get a hold of the fact there's something more important than our life, liberty, and happiness.
Paul's Letter to the Philippians indicates he felt a special, even sacred, bond with these people. They were family in Christ. This text stresses one thing we can and must do to fortify the bond we share with our spiritual "brothers and sisters in arms."
We can summarize Jesus' Sermon on the Mount as a "Kingdom Manifesto" where He's declaring how His own Christian counter-culture is to look in this fallen world. And Jesus now brings His sermon to an amazing conclusion so that His listeners are shocked.
The Bible teaches that true wisdom begins with seeking the Lord. In this study, we examine the story behind the wisemen and their quest for Christ. We also consider how Matthew compares three different responses to the Christ-child: the good, the bad, and the ugly.
In this Lord's Day message, Pastor Kevin brings us a message from Micah titled "Hope in the Dark" from Micah 5:1-4.
God has given us an even greater revelation than the Bible, namely, the revelation of His own Son, whom He sent into this world. The single most compelling reason for trusting the Bible (i.e., Christianity) would have to be the singular figure Jesus Christ, from which the Christian worldview takes its name.
Life is journey lined with eternal perils. The way to destruction is filled with people. The world is filled with false prophets. Churches are filled with people who do not genuinely know Christ. To safely enter into the Kingdom of Heaven, we must heed Jesus' warnings.
If the Bible is what it claims to be, then we should only expect that it would manifest divine power and glory in its subject matter. In this study, we examine how that you can trust the Bible is the Word of God because of the divine power and glory it displays.
In this Lord's Day Message, Pastor Kevin preaches a message titled: "Guard, Grow, and Glorify" from 2nd Peter 3:17-18.
If the Bible is what it claims to be—then we should expect that it would manifest divine depth and breadth in its subject matter. What do we find when we study this book today? Many centuries later, the Bible remains just as rich and relevant as ever—because it is the eternal Word of our Creator.
This was a brief Bible message delivered at the memorial service for Roger Haughwout (1943-2024).
This lecture continues the previous week's discussion on the Bible's moral integrity by examining the problem of evil, the doctrine of hell, and God's destruction of the Canaanites. Then we examine ten characteristics of the Bible's testimony that prove it is trustworthy.
The more we learn about the Bible, the more we learn we can trust it. In this lesson, we further examine the Bible's integrity when it comes to its own logical consistency, its relationship to science, and its moral integrity.
Pastor Kevin preaches with a message titled: "Be Ready For The Return" from 2 Peter 3:14-16.
In this study, we examine the highpoint of the Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus summarizes the whole law into a single commandment. A world so wicked and divided as ours needs to see from the church what a genuinely Christian treatment of others looks like.
With time and discovery, archaeology and historical research have not ceased to confirm the Bible is historically accurate. Adequately demonstrating this would require more than a single lecture. But this study at least endeavors to show how the Bible stands out from mere mythology as genuine history.
Lord's Day Message - Pastor Kevin brings a message from God's word titled: "Our Response To The Return" (2 Peter 3:11-13)
Why trust the Bible when it was written by men? Didn't men choose the books? Didn't men corrupt the Bible? This study discusses why we can trust the Bible in light of "How We Got Our Bible." Key themes include the inspiration, canonization, and preservation of Scripture.
In this course, we will examine Christianity's foundation for knowing truth. The primary purpose of this course is to build greater confidence in God's revelation, particularly His revelation in Scripture, by demonstrating how the Bible is worthy of your trust. We also want to be equip you to defend your faith in the Bible as the Word of God.
Lord's Day Message - Pastor Kevin brings a message from God's word titled: "Repent or Perish" (2 Peter 3:8-10)
Christians can and should learn how to critically assess a worldview. This study gives a summary review of we covered in this course so far; then it corrects some common misunderstandings about worldviews and examines how we may test any given view of reality.
People love to misquote Jesus these days. "Don't judge!" they will say. As if to suggest, "Jesus said you must not say anything negative about anyone else." Well, I hope I'm not 'bursting your bubble,' but that's NOT what Jesus is saying here...
In this study, Pastor Christian Acosta discusses the relevance of Biblical counsel for believer's struggling with "depression." Some of this material was adapted from a study in "Changed Into His Image" by Jim Berg.
Christ targets the sort of misdirected ambition that is all too common in our culture. While just about anyone might get excited about living a "purpose-driven life," Jesus specifies the sort of purpose our lives ought to be about--namely, the kingdom of God.
This Sunday School, Pastor Kevin teaches lesson 4 of the -Church Membership- series. This lesson is titled- -The Challenges and Nature of Membership.-
Having stressed the need to practice a new kind of righteousness, Jesus next deals with our motivation. Because God sees our heart, our motives matter to Him as much as our actions. So Jesus here speaks to the very heart of why we do what we do.
In this study, we see Jesus continuing His emphasis on 'Christian righteousness.' And after some more examples of radical righteousness, Jesus will conclude that we must be no less righteous than God Himself- Every Christian must give greater attention to these verses.
Christians need to be members of a local church so that, through a church's accountability and exhortation, we are protected from sin's deceiving, hardening effects.
Christians need to be members of a local church so that, through a church's accountability and exhortation, we are protected from sin's deceiving, hardening effects.
In this study, we see Jesus continuing His emphasis on 'Christian righteousness.' And after some more examples of radical righteousness, Jesus will conclude that we must be no less righteous than God Himself! Every Christian must give greater attention to these verses.
In these verses, Jesus calls His disciples to a deeper, inner kind of righteousness. According to Jesus, we need a righteousness that transforms us from the inside out. This study will cover three cases in which 'Christian righteousness' radically transcends our conventional standards of ethics.
How can our worship fulfill its great purpose in the New Testament Age-- What does it mean to worship in spirit and truth--
In this text, Jesus addresses a misunderstanding concerning His own relationship to the law, and explains the relationship which we are to have to the law as His children. But He concludes with a statement that is perhaps the most shocking in all His sermon.
If you had the idea that the 'Christian character' outlined in verses 3-12 can somehow be maintained in private without making an impact in society, Jesus now lays that idea to rest once and for all. If you're a Christian, Christ expects you to change the world.
Our world does not always appreciate the sort of Christian character Jesus has described. Actually, those who truly model these beatitudes will be persecuted. But the main point of this text -vv. 10-12- is that true Christians are blessed to overcome persecution for Christ's sake.
In a world at war, we tend to desire peace. But we are not naturally inclined to be peacemakers. Peacemaking is an indispensable mark of a true disciple of Christ. In this study, we examine how to be a peacemaker and the blessing of being a peacemaker.
While many people give much attention to appearing -pure- in the eyes of men, few are really concerned with purity of heart before God. In our study of this Beatitude, we see not only what it means to be pure of heart, but why it matters.
Jesus speaks into a culture largely void of mercy and calls His people to be merciful. In this study what it means to be one of -the merciful- and what it means that the merciful -shall receive mercy.-
Every worldview must wrestle with what it is that is humanity's greatest problem and what it is that we really need-- In this study, we limit our focus to what the Biblical worldview teaches about salvation by unfolding the rest of the Bible's metanarrative.
While our culture celebrates ethical relativism, the Bible gives us a comprehensive framework for understanding what is right and what is wrong. Scripture teaches God's moral law is grounded in His holiness, has been revealed to humanity, and exposes our sinfulness.
Epistemology concerns how we approach knowing. Everyone has a way of how to they seek to know, and epistemology is critical because our epistemology determines the authority we live by. In this study, we examine what the Biblical worldview has to say about truth and how we may reliably know it.
Different worldviews offer very different ways of understanding what it means to be human. And there are tremendous consequences to how we answer this question. In this study, we explore the foundations of a Biblical view of anthropology.
As far as worldview's concerned, cosmology is the study of the universe, its origin, purpose, form, and structure. In this lecture, we examine the Bible's view of our universe over against the ideas of our secular culture.
Hunger and thirst for righteousness is the surest mark of a true Christian. This is because what you genuinely desire displays who you really are.
As part of our study in worldview apologetics, we're examining what the Bible says about metaphysics-the study of being and the structure of reality. Far from absurd, the Biblical explanation of reality is the only explanation that actually rings true with the way things are.
When a sinner understands his own spiritual bankruptcy and sorrows over his sinfulness, he is suddenly in the place to become meek. The basic point of this beatitude in the greater context of Jesus' sermon is that meekness is also an indispensable mark of the true Christian.
In a culture that has radically departed from the Bible, it's now more critical than ever before that the church understand the Bible on a worldview level. This lecture lays a foundation for understanding what a -worldview- is.
Poverty in spirit yields contrition of heart. The first beatitude inevitably brings us to the second- understanding our spiritual bankruptcy leads us to mourn our spiritual condition. In this study we examine the kind of mourning which receives God's comfort.
This very first in Jesus' Beatitudes is also the most fundamental of attitudes in the list. In this study we examine how the very first mark of a true Christian is poverty of spirit.
The Sermon on the Mount is among the most well-known, most misunderstood, and least obeyed teachings in all the Bible. So in this introductory study of the Sermon on the Mount, we will explore how it is we can be sure to properly interpret this portion of Scripture.
In this memorial service for a gentleman who once attended The Bible Church, we consider the story of the criminals crucified with Christ and how our life situation is actually quite similar.
John concludes his Gospel by claiming not all the books of the world could tell the things Jesus did and said ---. But in this study, we'll examine at least one of the most remarkable things Jesus ever did and said. And it's got to do with what we celebrate Easter Sunday.
With so many churches across the world and so much diversity between them, it's worth exploring why we do what we do as a church. So using the Bible as our blueprint, we will examine the twelve traditions that make a church a truly Biblical church -pt 2 of 2-.
With so many churches across the world and so much diversity between them, it's worth exploring why we do what we do as a church. So using the Bible as our blueprint, we will examine the twelve traditions that make a church a truly Biblical church -pt 1 of 2-.
Christianity isn't about about being a -consumer-- it's about being consumed with and for Jesus Christ- And so here in these final parting words, Peter sums up his purpose for writing this letter. And it's that his Christian readers might stand firm in the grace of God.
This text indicates your suffering and trials are actually part of a greater battle for your soul and for the souls of your fellow human beings. Every true Christian is engulfed in a real, spiritual fight. So how does one survive-- How does one stay in the fight-- Peter here tells us how we can stay in the fight.
Having emphasized the need to stand strong in the face of suffering, Peter now addresses the elders of the church. He knows if the shepherds won't stand strong and faithfully lead the flock, how can the flock itself-- So the big idea of this paragraph is that every church is a flock that needs faithful shepherds.
If God controls all things, how can our actions have real meaning-- What are the decrees of God--
This text really challenges us about all suffering we experience over the course of our lives because your testimony for Jesus is never more meaningful and powerful than when you're responding right to your suffering- So Peter here shows us how every Christian ought to respond to suffering.
Sadly and ironically, many Christians obsessed with preparing for -the end of all things- are completely failing to prepare the way Peter commands in this text. Christians need to be living in light of the end. And Peter here tells us how we may do so.
In light of the rising hostility toward Christians, Peter calls his Christian readers to -arm- or -prepare- themselves as if for battle. Of course, he's not talking about preparing for physical combat, but preparing for real suffering that is to come for the sake of following Christ.
This is honestly one of the most difficult passages in all the Bible -at least, verses 19-21-. But details aside, the big idea is found in tracing the chronology of Christ's death, resurrection, and ascension and what this means for us who are suffering.
Peter knows that as his Christian readers pursue God's pathway of blessing, they will meet with hostility from the world. So he encourages us to stand firm in the true grace of God by explaining how we are to respond to hostile culture.
This study -part 1- examines the character of God with regard to His -communicable- attributes, that is, how God like us in his being and in mental and moral attributes.
In this Bible study, we examine how that God has a time for everything that ever happens. While we cannot decide what will happen to us, we must all decide what we will do with the time that is given us.
-How is God different from us--- In this lesson, we will answer this question and observe five incommunicable attributes of God that will cause us to worship God. We will be reminded to follow the God of eternity, who has never changed and to trust in God who is present everywhere.
How do we know that God exists-- Can we really know God-- How much of God can we know-- In this lesson, we will learn the answers to these questions and observe the grace God has shown us in revealing Himself in Scripture and nature.
As Peter continues describing the sort of behavior Christians must display to the watching world, he aims to show us-this Christian life is truly 'the good life.' Most would agree 'the good life' has to do with being happy. But how do we actually live it-- Peter here tells us.
While there are many instances in Scripture and throughout history where God has manifested His presence to sinners like us, in this study we aim to see how Jesus' incarnation is God's greatest manifestation of His presence.
Isaiah 7-14 promises the most amazing sign of God's coming presence. Here in Isaiah, God gives a sign that He will enter into our world through the womb of a virgin and He will dwell with men as the most remarkable Child.
Humanity's access to God was severed the moment Adam - Eve sinned. But here and there, throughout the Old Testament, we not only see God delights to manifest Himself to sinful humanity. But God provides a way of access into His presence once again.
In this text, James encourages us to pray in the midst of our trials. We should also reach out to other brothers in Christ to pray for us when we are weak. God can restore any believer who humbly comes before Him in prayer.
Presence clearly matters to us. But the Bible reveals that presence also matters to God. In this study, we examine important scenes from the Old Testament that demonstrate 'the God of the Bible' is a God who delights to manifest His presence to sinners.
In this passage, James gives us many imperatives and illustrations to consider when we are going through injustice. Although it will be challenging, true believers will strive to be patient in every trial until the return of their Savior, who will bless their endurance.
We were blessed to have Chad Driscoll to bring the Word to us. The Driscoll's are looking to serve the Lord as missionaries in Central Asia.
In this text, we are called to think wisely about wealth. Are we trusting in rusty riches or in Jesus-- God will punish all who continue in their greed. He will also not overlook injustice. We can have a righteous response to mistreatment because the Lord of Hosts hears our cries.
Without thanksgiving, we wouldn't have worship. So in this study, we examine the greatest obstacle to thanksgiving as well as it's ultimate objective.
In this passage, James reminds us that we are not in control of our lives. We should be wise in our speech when it comes to making plans. We need to have God in mind.
In this passage we are commanded to refrain from slander and hypocritical judgment. May we strive to love one another and recognize who the Judge is. Who are we to act like we are above His law--
James pleads with all who have been proud to humbly submit themselves to the Lord. God is willing to draw near to us if we draw near to Him. God's promises will encourage us to a sincere repentance of sins.
Peter's called Christians to display a Christ-like attitude toward our civil authorities and toward even those authorities, like our employers, which do not treat us right. Now Peter calls Christians to display Christ-likeness in the challenging context of marriage.
What is the status of your relationship with God-- Are you in a position of grace-- Or are you in a position of judgment-- We must turn from our pride and turn to Christ.
Peter knows there will be times when Christians will suffer gross injustice, and, in such situations, we will be tempted to take exception to Peter's call to love and honor all persons. So this text calls Christians to patiently endure injustice for Christ's sake.
-Civil disobedience- is a far more popular subject these days than -civil obedience.- Nevertheless, in this text, Peter shares the heart behind God's command for the Christian's civil obedience.
Rather than being quick to blame others, we need to examine ourselves to observe if we could be the problem. James gives us the source of conflicts to challenge us to turn from our wicked pleasures.
Yes, -all the world's a stage,- and so Peter urges for genuine Christians to display a genuinely Christian life to the watching world. And in this text, Peter helps us understand how we must display Christ to this world.
In contrast to the wisdom of this world, James now describes the wisdom that is from above. No follower of Christ can afford to live without this heavenly kind of wisdom.
For the rest of his letter, Peter's gonna talk about 'how to live as Christians in a perverse culture.' But preliminary to living as Christians is grasping our Christian identity. Christians must confidently grasp their new identity in Jesus Christ.
Anyone can claim he's wise, but James challenges us to prove our wisdom by our works. He also warns us in this passage against being deceived by what is a -counterfeit- wisdom.
Many evangelicals believe -church- is about 'drawing in the lost,' and this philosophy guides their ministry and explains their fruit. Is this Biblical-- What is a Biblical philosophy of ministry and how can we maintain one in today's culture--
Peter wants us to 'grow up' to live like Christ and to love like Christ, but he doesn't say, -Just grow up-- Peter tells us HOW we must grow, namely, by making certain choices regarding God's Word.
We might say we're -born again- and are being -sanctified,- but where's the love-- This text really focuses on the singular command of the paragraph--LOVE ONE ANOTHER. As Peter's readers are feeling the heat of persecution for their faith in Christ, he knows love is especially needed. So Peter tells us what kind of love the church needs.--The Sermon Audio stream cut out some, so we apologize for any video issues.
In this text, James describes the power of the tongue and how incredibly difficult it is to -tame-. He also calls us to practice purity in the realm of our speech.
This passage carries some serious warnings concerning our tongue causing us to stumble and the serious need to steer our tongues.
In light of our new calling to -be holy- as God is holy, Peter offer his Christians readers some motivation here because he knows--As long as you're a pilgrim in this world-you're gonna need all the motivation you can get--
It's important not to lose sight of where we've come so far in our study of this letter, and it's worth knowing where we're going. So in this study, we get a big picture flyover of the first two chapters of James.
When God redeemed Israel out of Egypt, He brought them to Sinai, where He made a covenant with them and gave them a new calling in life. And once we are redeemed from slavery to sin, God has made no less a serious covenant with us, and He has given to us a new calling as well.
Since not everything in Scripture is equally -clear,- the Reformers recognized the need for using Scripture to interpret Scripture, and they called this principle the -Analogy-of-Faith.- In this study, we examine how to take a proper -theological- approach to the Bible in light of the fact it is God's Word.
How should we respond to the wonder of nature all around us-- What do we do with nature-- What are we to make of humanity-- In a society plagued with so many false and dangerous theories about nature and humanity, Psalm 8 holds a critical message for our time.
Not only does a grammatical analysis of a text give you a clearer understanding of its authorial intent, but this will force you to more carefully consider each minute detail which comprises the author's thought. So this exercise can actually be as devotional as it is practical.
We know we're supposed to fear God and love God-but enjoy Him-- While the idea of enjoying God might strike some as odd or even inappropriate, this command to delight ourselves in God is central to the every command in Scripture. If we miss this, we miss it all.
Regardless of the exact cause behind David's despair, this psalm does not focus on the cause of despair, but upon despair itself and its cure. Psalm 6 offers today's saints precious guidance on how to escape despair's -dungeon.-
Grammar reflects the orderliness of our God, the Author of language. And understanding the basic rules of grammar helps us to better understand the authorial intent of Scripture.
In this lament, David cries to God, asking for Him to avenge God's people who afflicted and suffering under the oppression of the wicked. This prayer also reflects much about the character of our God.
The Biblical authors expect us to be familiar with their own historical-cultural context. And why wouldn't they-- They were real people writing most immediately to other real people in their own historical-cultural context. So in this study, we examine how to research the historical cultural context of any passage.
If you've been a Christian for any amount of time, you already know that you're supposed to put your trust in God. But how exactly do we put our trust in God--especially when life -drives us into a cave--- David's example shows us how we can trust God in any situation.
It's rude to jump into the middle of a conversation and just assume we know what's being said when we really don't. To ensure this is not how we're interpreting the Bible, we should learn how to carefully and properly analyze the literary context of any passage we're studying.
Many times a word or phrase or an entire event found in the Bible may seem unclear to us. In this study, we begin to examine a principle that will help us properly understand the Bible even when the author's intended meaning is not immediately apparent to us.
In Psalm 3, David offers a model prayer for God's people who are surrounded by opposition.
In this continuation of our study of the 'literal principle,' we consider how to respect Scripture's use of figurative language and how to avoid the extremes of hyper-literalism and allegorism.
This psalm focuses on the coming reign of Christ and what it means for us and our world. Sinners continue to rebel and rage against our Lord, but He is returning, and now is the only time to submit to Christ's rule-before it's too late.
This first of the Psalms sets before us two dramatically different ways of life- the way of the wicked and the way of the wise. As we examine this psalm, as the Lord to show you which 'way of life' does your own resemble--
Many approach the Bible in all kinds of strange and mystical ways. But as we study the -literal- principle of hermeneutics, we consider the importance of letting the Bible speak for itself, respecting it as literature, and reading it for what it plainly says.
After centuries upon centuries of animal sacrifices offered to God, the sacrifice of the Perfect Lamb of God changed everything. In this study, we explore the insufficiency of the law, the sufficiency of Christ, and the resulting sanctification.
It's impossible to study any piece of literature in a vacuum. When we come to the Bible, it's worth recognizing that we do bring to the book a certain mindset, a certain attitude, a certain set of capabilities, and so forth. So a study of how to interpret the Bible should include what Scripture has to say to about the interpreter himself.
Every genuine believer has faith, but every believer's faith must be continually supplied with the virtues addressed in this text.
When studying how to correctly interpret the Bible, the history of Biblical hermeneutics can be extremely insightful. Truth matters, and history shows how today's interpretations will determine the state of the tomorrow's church.
We live in a day when truth has fallen in the street. The world is loud, and many ministers are hirelings. So who will speak for God-- This text shows us what God expects of the man He's appointed to speak for Him.
If there were an art or science you could study to dramatically improve the quality of your life would you undertake to learn it-- The art and science of Bible interpretation enables us to better understand God by understanding what He has revealed about Himself in His Word.
In this text, James supplies us with another example of living faith from the Old Testament story of Rahab.
In this text, Peter offers four perspectives on our salvation that prove it's a divine masterpiece worth the Christian's excitement.
James challenges us with the example of Abraham. Abraham demonstrated he had a living faith by his works.
True faith in Jesus Christ is not merely confessing some set of doctrines. True faith in Christ will be evident by holy affection. Peter gives us two holy affections which evidence true faith.
What is the condition of your faith-- Is it dead or alive-- In this study, James challenges us with the need for a faith is alive in Christ by being alive to good works.
In this text, James calls attention to the royal law which Jesus gave. It is a humbling study that reminds of how we are all under God's judgment and all need God's mercy.
No Christian gets a pass on suffering. God will surely test the faith of His people because He knows our faith needs the benefit of suffering- In this text, we explore four reasons Christians can genuinely rejoice in whatever suffering.
We must not discriminate against brothers and sisters based on what they can offer us or based on our personal preferences. Since God's election of His people was according to His own mercy, our treatment of others must not be according to merit, but according to mercy.
Our culture is attempting to redefine motherhood. But every Christian must be committed to a Biblical model of motherhood.
Though a very misunderstood term, -communion- describes the ordinance of the bread and the cup as a demonstration of our -sharing in- the body and blood of Christ and our unity with one another as Christ's body.
John the Baptist's martyrdom foreshadows the coming -storm- of persecution Jesus and His disciples will face. Since Scripture indicates all who desire to live godly will suffer persecution, every Christian needs John's commitment to God's truth-
-Where is my life going-- It's a question any sensible person will ask at some point. The unfortunate truth is--those who live their life -under the sun- without any thought for God will one day awake only to realize their entire existence amounted to a net zero.
Growing involves going. After months of teaching and training, Jesus sends His disciples out to preach and perform miracles. This text exhibits at least six principles which still apply to all of Jesus' disciples today.
In this study, we examine Jesus' return to his hometown and see how that unbelief poses a serious offense to God and comes with disastrous consequences.
No rational person can live without grasping for the meaning of life. The Book of Ecclesiastes contains the memoirs of a man who was once -on top of the world- but who came to learn the hard way that--without God, all life is meaningless.
In conclusion of Paul's great theological treatise to the Romans, the apostle leaves us some very practical truths concerning how we are to live our lives.
What do you do when things go from bad to worse--when all hope fades- In this text, we see an intense struggle for faith to trust Jesus in a hopeless hour.
Your faith in the resurrected Christ will make all the difference in your life this new year. Unfortunately, the audio cuts out for the final portion of this message.
For our communion service, we considered why the ordinance of the bread and the cup is sometimes called the -Breaking of Bread.- Such a title emphasizes how the ordinance is to be a time for sharing and enjoying fellowship with our Lord and with His people.
A King is born, and the only appropriate response to this Christ-Child is worship. By following the magi from the east, this text demonstrates several concepts essential to our own worship of Christ.
At a time when everyone's talking about that -Christmas feeling,- what is the true -Spirit of Christmas-- In this text, we examine the essence of the -Christmas Spirit- that will not only change our Christmas season, but also our church and lives.
In this third study of -The Coming King,- we see how God promised the birth of the most extraordinary child, one who is to be the cause for our rejoicing- This Messiah-child would be God-with-us.
In this sequel, we examine further prophecies of the coming King during the reign of King David, and we learn that Messiah will not only be the -Greater Son of David,- but He will be the Son of God.
Jesus is the coming King God promised from the beginning of the Old Testament. This is the first part of a four-part series which explores the Advent of the Lord Jesus as the long awaited Messiah.
For our communion service, we began with this devotional on the ordinance of the bread and the cup as the -Lord's Supper,- considering this ordinance as a significant covenantal meal in memorial of our Lord's sacrifice and the salvation it secured.
This study concludes our exposition of the first nine chapters of Proverbs. Here, Solomon brings us to a -crossroads- where it's time to make our choice.
Jesus has power not only to -bind the strongman,- but also to transform the demoniac. In this second-half of this study, we see a most incredible illustration of how Jesus is able to save anyone-
God had a plan to use Nehemiah in rebuilding Jerusalem's wall, and the same God has a plan to use every one of His people in the building of His church.
In the first part of this story, we see a man completely dominated by the tyrannical power of demons. Then Jesus shows up and displays triumphant power over the spiritual powers of darkness.
This is a brief devotional we examined prior to partaking of the Lord's Table. The focus of our study is upon the Lordship of Christ over His Table.
What do you do when you suddenly encounter a -storm,- and you realize your life is completely out of your control- This story demonstrates how Jesus commands the storm, and the One who commands the storm is worthy of your trust.
This day in Church History -Oct 31st- is -Reformation Day,- when we remember Luther nailing his 95 Theses on the door of Wittenberg's Cathedral. In this study we examine five reasons for celebrating the Reformation- they are five doctrines which exalt the Gospel of Christ.
Jesus gives three more parables- the Parable of the Shining Lamp, the Sprouting Seed, and the Mustard Seed. These all explain how Jesus plans to advance His kingdom.
Jesus is frequently surrounded by crowds of people flocking to hear Him teach. But as He begins teaching this parable, Jesus makes it clear--only those who truly hear will truly live. What does it mean to -truly hear-- Jesus explains in the -Parable of the Sower.-
The father prepares his son for one of the most intense battles that rage against the soul. He knows only true devotion to wisdom will keep his son from the many persuasions of the seductress.
When Jesus' blood-family come to -straighten- Him out, everyone is shocked by Jesus' response. The scene of this text really draws a dividing line that crosses through every fabric of society, including the family. Are you on the -in- or the -out- with Jesus-
In light of all the evidence Mark has supplied to this point, we arrive at a -great trilemma-- either Jesus was a lunatic, or He was a liar, or He was Lord. Your only reasonable verdict is to embrace Him as Lord-
What does it mean to -pray in the Spirit-- In this prayer-devotional, we explore several Scripture that explain what it means to pray in the Spirit.
In our society saturated with popular culture, nobody wants to be -a nobody.- But here we see Jesus choosing twelve -nobodies- to be His disciples and we explore why He does so.
In a culture so sexually deranged as ours, Solomon's instruction in this chapter could not be more timely. God's plan for His people includes their physical purity--so, drink from your own well-
In this text, Mark gives a summary of Jesus' Galilean ministry. But from three different responses to the Son of God, we see it's possible to come so close to Jesus and yet miss Him completely-
The religious authorities seek to exploit a man's need in their plot to ensnare Jesus. But Jesus takes up the man's case, puts evil in its place, and proves He's the Lord who can restore what sin has broken.
What is our attitude toward the words of our Heavenly Father- What difference do they make- How are we to regard such instruction- This passage reveals a Father's timeless instruction for his child.
The father continues to teach his son the importance of learning wisdom. In this passage, we see wisdom's incomparable value.
What happens when Israel's most zealous law-keepers come up against the Law of God Himself- That's a story to be told from our text in Mk 2-23-28.
Following Jesus' celebration in the home of Matthew the tax collector, the Pharisees ask why Jesus does not observe their religion. Jesus responds with a brilliant description of His new and living way.
In this text, we examine who the -tax collectors- were and why Levi-Matthew was a most unlikely candidate for following Jesus. Then we see Jesus' interaction with sinners and what was so unique about His message.
Among some of the best well known verses in all the Bible, the Father gives us six directives for how to live, and each directive come with a promised principle of success.
This story deals with the extent of Jesus' authority. Yes, Jesus can heal, but can He forgive- In this text, we examine two impressive miracles which Jesus performs.
In the second half of Proverbs 2, the father warns his boy of two alluring characters that remain in our world. We must internalize God's wisdom for protection against these real allurements of evil.
The Word of God will only personally do us good to the degree that we internalized it. This text stresses the need to internalize God's wisdom.
In this text, Mark confronts us with a shocking encounter between Jesus and an outcast whose body is wracked with a terrible plague. But Jesus breaks with every convention of His time to touch this 'untouchable' life.
Solomon personifies wisdom as a woman preaching truth in the streets, calling to one and all, and extending a limited-time offer of salvation.
In the context of His humanity, Jesus' found His strength and delight in times of communion with the Heavenly Father. From His time alone with God, we can then see how the Son of God remained so focused upon the Father's plan.
In light of our youth group's coming week of camp, we must call to mind the crisis that always accompanies -a new generation.-
Reports of miracles can be found throughout history, but the miracles of Jesus are in a class all by themselves. In this study, we follow the story behind some of Jesus' very first miracles and how they shook all who witnessed them.
The Heavenly Father does not -shelter- His children from the harsh truth concerning the world of evil. In this study, we see a father's warning to His son about what the world is really like.
No one would ever forget what happened on this Sabbath in the local synagogue of Capernaum. It was here that Jesus would both claim and prove Himself to have authority unlike any man before or after Him.
The beginning of Jesus' public ministry remains a most historic event. In this study we see the Son of God announcing God's Kingdom and calling upon men to repent and believe in His Gospel.
Solomon brings us to a fork in the road between the 'way of wisdom' and the' way of fools.' To begin upon the way of wisdom, one must begin with reverential fear of Yahweh.
With the fall of the 'First Adam' our entire race was plunged into sin, but if the 'Second Adam' fell, so would die any hope of salvation. Thankfully, Mark's Gospel introduces Jesus as the One who triumphs over the Tempter-
In examining Solomon's purpose for writing the Book of Proverbs, we learn just why and how much we need this 'old book.'
In this study of King Solomon's life, we learn not only how the Book of Proverbs came to be, but also how just how much we need to continue growing in God's wisdom every day.
In this study, we examine the significance of Jesus' baptism, and we see how Jesus is the only Beloved Son of God who perfectly pleases the Father. As such, He is our only hope of salvation.
Mark prepares us for the rest of this Gospel by introducing Jesus as the Christ, the Son of God, and he begins the story with John's call to prepare for the coming Son of God. This text was never more relevant than it is to us today-
Wolves- are slaves, not of our Lord Christ but of their own appetites- and by their smooth and flattering speech they deceive the hearts of the unsuspecting.
In this introduction to Proverbs we examine an overview of the book as well as guidelines for how to properly interpret it.
Your knowledge of Jesus is only as reliable as your sources on Jesus. In this study, we introduce Mark's Gospel by examining Mark's life and the reasons for trusting his document is historically reliable.
There hundreds of different kinds of churches, some 'good' and others 'not so good.' The Word of God is the primary standard for evaluating what a church should look like. In this text, we see how the earliest church presents a model for us to follow.
Ever been surrounded by danger and worries on all sides- In this Pilgrim Psalm, the Psalmist expands our understanding of what it means that God is the Protector of His people.
The Book of Hebrews urges the reader to understand that Jesus is not only better- He is best.
As christ has accepted us, dying while we were yet sinners, how much more can and should we accept each other as redeemed sinners.
-I am no longer going to be in the world- and yet they themselves are in the world, and I am coming to You. Holy Father, keep them in Your name, the name which You have given Me, so that they may be one just as We are.- -Jesus
...now when they heard this, they were pierced to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, -Brothers, what are we to do--...
We don't play church, we are the church and we take it seriously, and we take sin, and false teaching seriously-because we love The Groom
Believer, your life is not for self, but others and God's glory. Choose your actions wisely.
Keep your eye on those who cause dissensions and hindrances contrary to the teaching which you learned, and turn away from them.
-By this all people will know that you are My disciples- if you have love for one another- -Jesus
Whether we live among polytheists or pluralists, the world must know there is only one true God who demands nothing less than all our worship.
Christ came not to be served but to serve, we are called as His follwoers to emulate His humility.
If you have trusted in Christ, you are a part of the body of Christ, are you serving the body well-
Shout joyfully to God, all the earth- Sing the glory of His name- Make His praise glorious.
And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.
Therefore I urge you, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship.
1 Corinthians 15 is the epitome of Resurrection texts. In this sermon we ask 10 questions about the resurrection and conclude with the implicaitons of it.
In what is arguably the greatest sermon ever preached in the history of the church, Peter explains how God Himself has vindicated Jesus as Lord and Christ.
Come with sincere motives, worshipping God alone, trusting in the way of access, having been cleansed from our sins, in the name of Jesus.
We dwell in unity, by God's Grace, so that with one purpose and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ...
A short clip taken from- Unity For God's Glory -- link sermonaudio.com-sermon-3142116525161
One manifestation of true biblical love is limiting one's liberties for the sake of the unity of the church and spiritual health of it's members.
Should Christians be seeking the outpouring of the Spirit- In this study, we examine the significance of the Spirit's outpouring at Pentecost and what it means for the Church today-
Luther once penned, -Feelings come and feelings go,and feelings are deceiving- my warrant is the Word of God - naught else is worth believing.- Tonight, we discussed the warnings found in scripture of rejecting God's Word.