Sappony Baptist Church: Recent Episodes
Sappony Baptist Church
July 2, 2023: Today we see that our fight is not against those doing the Lord’s work, but against those false teachers proclaiming His name. For more information on Sappony Baptist Church, please visit our website at www.sappony1773.org.
The post Mark 9:38-42 | Because You Belong to Christ appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
June 25, 2023: “Where Is Home?” Today, we hear the gospel message from Dr. Jerry Harper, who pastored Sappony from 1967-1972.
The post Sappony’s 250th Anniversary appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
June 18, 2023: Today, we see what it means to be the greatest in the kingdom. For more information on Sappony Baptist Church, please visit our website at www.sappony1773.org.
The post Mark 9:30-37 | Servant of All appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
June 11, 2023: Today, we discuss the symptoms of a weak faith that we should all watch out for. For more information on Sappony Baptist Church, please visit our website at www.sappony1773.org.
The post Mark 9:14-29 | This Kind appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
June 4, 2023: Today, we look at the Transfiguration in light of the hope that Jesus provides to us through this revealing of His glory. For more information on Sappony Baptist Church, please visit our website at www.sappony1773.org.
The post Mark 9:2-13 | Listen to Him appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
May 28, 2023: What does it mean to truly follow Jesus? There are two parts of this command. The first is that I must deny myself. The second is that I must take up my cross. Today, we examine what this means for us.
For more information on Sappony Baptist Church, please visit our website at www.sappony1773.org.
The post Mark 8:34-9:1 | Follow Me appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
May 21, 2023: Today we see how important it is to avoid speaking for Satan.
For more information on Sappony Baptist Church, please visit our website at www.sappony1773.org.
The post Mark 8:27-33 | Who Do You Say I Am? appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
May 14, 2023: Today, we see what our Lord teaches us through an unusual healing.
For more information on Sappony Baptist Church, please visit our website at www.sappony1773.org.
The post Mark 8:22-26 | Do You See Anything? appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
May 7, 2023: Today, we examine a warning that Jesus gave to His disciples.
For more information on Sappony Baptist Church, please visit our website at www.sappony1773.org.
The post Mark 8:1-21 | Beware of the Leaven appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
April 30, 2023: Today, we consider two miracles of Jesus in Gentile territory. We also look at the role their loved ones played in helping people to receive these miracles.
For more information on Sappony Baptist Church, please visit our website at www.sappony1773.org.
The post Mark 7:24-37 | The Children’s Crumbs appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
April 23, 2023: Today, we see what it really takes to please God.
For more information on Sappony Baptist Church, please visit our website at www.sappony1773.org.
The post Mark 7:1-23 | With Unwashed Hands appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
April 16, 2023: In our return to the gospel of Mark, we see Jesus walking on water. Today, we will see that Jesus showed His disciples (and us) exactly who He is.
For more information on Sappony Baptist Church, please visit our website at www.sappony1773.org.
The post Mark 6:45-56 | They Had Not Understood appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
April 9, 2023: Today, as we look at the Resurrection of our Lord, we see that it is very good news for those who seek Him.
For more information on Sappony Baptist Church, please visit our website at www.sappony1773.org.
The post Matthew 28:1-10 | The Resurrection appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
April 2, 2023: Often we have heard the telling of Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem. We know that the people shouted, “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.” Often, we don’t realize that these words, and many others that we find in our New Testament readings, come from the Psalms. Today, from Psalm 118, we will see who may enter the gates of righteousness.
For more information on Sappony Baptist Church, please visit our website at www.sappony1773.org.
The post Psalm 118:19-29 | This Is the Day appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
March 26, 2023: As we look around our community and our world, it is very easy to get discouraged by what we see. In many sectors of American life, the church appears to be defeated, lost, and irrelevant. Many churches are shrinking and dying. And we sit inside wringing our hands about how bad things have gotten. But imagine if it were worse. Imagine that we were captured and hauled off the land here to a foreign place with foreign gods. What then? Would we expect to see a revival? Growth of the people of God? A return from the dead? Today, from Ezekiel’s words, we will see that God’s word and God’s Spirit are required to bring us back from the dead. First, though, we must acknowledge the painful truth that death is the result of sin.
For more information on Sappony Baptist Church, please visit our website at www.sappony1773.org.
The post Ezekiel 37:1-14 | Dry Bones appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
March 19, 2023: Psalm 23 is one of the best-known and most-loved passages in the entire Bible. Today, we will see what it means to us that “The Lord is my Shepherd.”
For more information on Sappony Baptist Church, please visit our website at www.sappony1773.org.
The post Psalm 23 | My Shepherd appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
March 5, 2023: Today we learn where our true protection comes from.
For more information on Sappony Baptist Church, please visit our website at www.sappony1773.org.
The post Psalm 121: 1-8 | I Lift My Eyes appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
February 26, 2023: Today we see how we can experience the joy that comes with being forgiven.
For more information on Sappony Baptist Church, please visit our website at www.sappony1773.org.
The post Psalm 32: 1-11 | How Joyful Is the One appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
February 19, 2023: The Feeding of the 5000 is a familiar miracle, and the only one recorded in all four gospels. Today, we examine how this passage requires us to trust the Lord in order to do what He has commanded.
For more information on Sappony Baptist Church, please visit our website at www.sappony1773.org.
The post Mark 6:30-44 | He Kept Giving appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
February 5, 2023: Herod has executed John the Baptist. This causes him guilt when hearing about all that Jesus is doing. Mark includes the narrative of how Herod’s lust led to him serving the head of the Baptist on a platter to a girl after a sensuous dance. Today, we see the dangers that lust presents.
For more information on Sappony Baptist Church, please visit our website at www.sappony1773.org.
The post Mark 6:14-29 | Herod Heard appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
January 29, 2023: The disciples have been following Jesus for some time. Now is the time for them to practice what they have observed their Lord doing. Today, we look at the instructions for this mission and apply them to our lives.
For more information on Sappony Baptist Church, please visit our website at www.sappony1773.org.
The post Mark 6:7-13 | So They Went Out appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
January 22, 2023: Jesus had been preaching and performing miraculous healings for some time. He was getting well known throughout Galilee. Then He went to Nazareth. The place where He was raised. The reception there was not overwhelmingly positive. Today, we see reasons that people reject Jesus.
For more information on Sappony Baptist Church, please visit our website at www.sappony1773.org.
The post Mark 6:1-6 | Isn’t This the Carpenter? appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
January 15, 2023: Today, we look at two of Jesus’ closely related miracles. A desperate father comes to the Lord for healing for his twelve-year-old daughter. A desperate woman who has had a bleeding problem for twelve years also comes to the Lord for healing. Both this upstanding synagogue leader and this poor woman needed what only Jesus could provide. Today, we see some requirements that we must meet in order to have our prayers answered.
For more information on Sappony Baptist Church, please visit our website at www.sappony1773.org.
The post Mark 5:21-43 | She Was Healed appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
January 8, 2023: In the encounter we read today, we see that Jesus casts many demons out of one man in an area known as the Decapolis (ten cities). We see three responses to Jesus in this encounter. The demons try to neutralize Him, the community expels Him, and the man He rescued clings to Him. Let’s examine our response.
For more information on Sappony Baptist Church, please visit our website at www.sappony1773.org.
The post Mark 5:1-20 | How Much the Lord Has Done appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
January 1, 2023: Today, we see why it should be our New Year’s resolution to make known the wonderful deeds of our God who has saved us.
For more information on Sappony Baptist Church, please visit our website at www.sappony1773.org.
The post Isaiah 63:7-9 | I Will Make Known appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
December 25, 2022: Today, as we celebrate Christmas, we will see reasons for hope in this season from the prophet Isaiah.
For more information on Sappony Baptist Church, please visit our website at www.sappony1773.org.
The post Isaiah 9:2-7 | For Unto Us appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
December 18, 2022: King Ahaz rejected a sign from the Lord because he wanted to continue in the sin that he had planned. Today, we see the danger of rejecting the Lord’s sign.
For more information on Sappony Baptist Church, please visit our website at www.sappony1773.org.
The post Isaiah 7:10-16 | A Sign from the Lord appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
December 11, 2022: Isaiah gives a wonderful picture of a desert being converted into a watered and fertile place. To the ancient mind, a desert symbolized the absence of God, the source of life. Many people are living in a spiritual desert: dry, unfruitful, and lifeless. Today we see what we must do if we are living in a desert.
For more information on Sappony Baptist Church, please visit our website at www.sappony1773.org.
The post Isaiah 35:1-10 | Crowned with Unending Joy appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
December 4, 2022: Reading from the prophet Isaiah, we look forward to a time of true peace on earth.
For more information on Sappony Baptist Church, please visit our website at www.sappony1773.org.
The post Isaiah 11:1-10 | From the Stump appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
November 27, 2022: We start our Advent season with a word from the prophet Isaiah about hope. For more information on Sappony Baptist Church, please visit our website at www.sappony1773.org.
The post Isaiah 2:1-5 | Let Us Walk appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
November 13, 2022: The disciples are in a panic. The boat is taking on water and Jesus is sound asleep and not helping them. They are doing everything they know how to do and are worried they’re going to die. Today, we will see that sometimes obedience takes us into the storm. These storms can […]
The post Mark 4:35-41 | Who Then Is This? appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
November 6, 2022: Today, from Jesus’ teaching, we are going to see that if I am saved, scripture is not a mystery to me; I am responsible for sharing the light I have; and that personal growth and church growth happen organically. For more information on Sappony Baptist Church, please visit our website at […]
The post Mark 4:21-34 | Parables Like These appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
October 30, 2022: Today, we examine the “Parable of the Sower.” This is Mark’s introduction to Jesus’ parabolic teaching. From this passage, we examine the four responses to the word of God: no response, emotional response, worldly response, and fruitful response. For more information on Sappony Baptist Church, please visit our website at www.sappony1773.org.
The post Mark 4:1-20 | Immediately They Receive It appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
October 23, 2022: People have been looking for a way to reject Jesus for two thousand years. There is one big reason. If Jesus is not who He claims to be, we can ignore his moral authority over us. If, however, He is who He says He is, we must accept His Lordship over our […]
The post Mark 3:20-35 | He’s Out of His Mind appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
October 16, 2022: A preacher once said, “what you do to get them, you have to do more and better of the same to keep them.” While Jesus could draw a large crowd, he never kept the majority of them for long. He would heal people causing people to flock to Him. Then, He would […]
The post Mark 3:7-19 | He Appointed Twelve appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
October 9, 2022: It was the Sabbath, and the disciples were hungry. So, they ate a few handfuls of grain as they were passing through the fields, only to be called lawbreakers by religious leaders. These same religious leaders would later plot to kill Jesus for healing a man on the Sabbath. Their judgment of […]
The post Mark 2:23-3:6 | Immediately the Pharisees Went appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
October 2, 2022: At some point, Levi had made the decision to leave his family behind and go into government service. He became the worst of all things he could be as a Jew. He became a tax collector, whose job was to extort taxes from his own people for their occupiers. Even worse, he […]
The post Mark 2:13-22 | He Got Up and Followed Him appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
September 25, 2022: People often treat the Lord’s commands as a biblical buffet, where you pick what you like and leave the rest. Disobedience to the Lord is rampant in society, in the family, and in the church. Today, we will see that that disobedient actions and words are the result of thinking that we […]
The post Mark 1:39-2:12 | Immediately He Got Up appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
September 18, 2022: Today, we observe Jesus on one busy Sabbath day in Capernaum.
The post Mark 1: 21-38 | Immediately On The Sabbath appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
September 11, 2022: Today, we see Jesus preaching in Galilee and the calling of Simon, Andrew, James, and John.
The post Mark 1: 14-20 | Immediately They Left appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
September 4, 2022: Today we begin the gospel of Mark.
The post Mark 1: 1-13 | The Beginning of the Gospel appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
August 28, 2022: Nehemiah comes back to Jerusalem after being away for a period of time. Most scholars think about ten years has passed. When he returns, he finds that a compromised priesthood has led to misuse of Temple facilities, an abandonment of temple worship by many, and improper political alliances. Nehemiah must clean house, […]
The post Remember Me, O Lord | Nehemiah 13:4-31 appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
August 21, 2022: Today we learn about the dedication ceremony for the completed wall in Jerusalem. God’s people get to rejoice that He has overcome their enemies and completed the wall. This is a reminder that our enemy also has been defeated and we have cause to celebrate.
The post On The Wall | Nehemiah 12:27-43 appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
August 14, 2022: The Israelites had come to a place where they were keenly aware of their sin and God’s grace in allowing them to return to their land and build the temple and the wall. Because of this, they decided to make a covenant to obey the particulars of the law and not to […]
The post A Covenant Life | Nehemiah 10:28-39 appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
August 7, 2022: Today, we are re-introduced to Ezra, about twelve years after our first introduction to him in Ezra 7. He read the law publicly at the Feast of Trumpets. This reading required translation because many Israelites no longer understood Hebrew. Along with translation, explanation of the scriptures was also required. When the scripture […]
The post All the People Listened | Nehemiah 7:73-8:12 appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
July 31, 2022: As Nehemiah is working to build the wall around Jerusalem, he faces some of the same obstacles that we face today. Detractors try to get him away from where God has him working. False accusations are made about him. He even gets bad advice from a religious leader colluding with his enemies. […]
The post Undistracted | Nehemiah 6:1-19 appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
July 24, 2022: Often, when times are tough, there are those who are willing to profit from other people’s desperation. The same thing happened during the time of Nehemiah. Jews were loaning money at interest, in violation of the law, and they were enslaving their fellow Jews. We learn, however, from God’s word that He […]
The post A Widespread Outcry | Nehemiah 5:1-13 appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
July 17, 2022: Often, while we are doing the Lord’s work, we will find ourselves at odds with the culture that surrounds us. Nehemiah experienced this through mocking. When that didn’t work, his enemies threatened violence. But God thwarted the plans of the enemies. He continues to do the same for those who trust Him.
The post So We Prayed | Nehemiah 4:1-23 appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
July 10, 2022: In obedience to God’s call on his life, Nehemiah went to Jerusalem. He encountered people who would oppose his work. He encountered a city that was destroyed. But Nehemiah was undaunted, knowing that God had called him to this task.
The post Let’s Start Rebuilding | Nehemiah 2:9-20 appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
July 3, 2022: Today, we are introduced to Nehemiah, the cup-bearer for King Artaxerxes. Nehemiah will use his influence to cause the city to be rebuilt. First, he engages in a time of prayer. Today, we examine that prayer.
The post Nehemiah’s Prayer | Nehemiah 1:1-2:8 appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
June 26, 2022: We first meet the title character of Ezra in Chapter 7. After reading his pedigree, we see that Ezra was sent by King Artaxerxes to check out the temple and bring his offering to God. When he arrives, he finds that some of those already living in Judea are violating God’s law. […]
The post Ezra’s Prayer | Ezra 9:1-15 appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
June 19, 2022: Today we examine two celebrations: the dedication of the second temple and the Passover. We will see how God’s people were united in worship and in their separation from the sinful practices of their neighbors.
The post Together But Separate | Ezra 6:16-22 appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
June 12, 2022: Today we observe that we must receive the Lord’s message, do the work that He has called us to, and be faithful to the finish.
The post These Men Wouldn’t Stop | Ezra 4:24-5:5 appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
May 29, 2022: Today we see five ways that the enemy attempts to thwart the true worship of God. We see that the exiles returning to Babylon faced attempts to infiltrate their worship. They faced discouragement. Their past was used against them. Lies were told about them. Finally, force was used against them. We should […]
The post When the Enemies Heard | Ezra 4:1-23 appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
May 22, 2022: The exiles who have returned to Israel have rebuilt the foundation of the temple. Then, they host a celebration of what the Lord has accomplished through them. Some, however, are so stuck in the past that they weep instead. Why? They remember how magnificent the previous temple was. Today, we see that […]
The post Rebuilding the Foundation | Ezra 3:8-13 appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
May 15, 2022: Today we examine the first worship service in Jerusalem following the Babylonian captivity. From this service, we see four elements necessary to the worship service: Gathering Together, Repentance, Restoration, and Celebration. We will examine these today.
The post Restoring the Altar | Ezra 3:1-7 appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
May 8, 2022: Today we begin our study of the book of Ezra. We see that God sent his people back to Jerusalem to build the city and the temple in preparation for His Son who would come four centuries later. God is also preparing the world for His Son’s return.
The post Return to Worship | Ezra 1:1-11 appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
April 24, 2022: Today we meet the disciples who were walking to Emmaus after hearing that the Lord had been resurrected. Their confusion and sorrow are turned to joy after gaining a proper understanding of the Christ from the scriptures. We will learn from their story.
The post Wasn’t It Necessary | Luke 24:13-35 appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
April 17, 2022 (Easter Sunday): Today, we study John’s account of the Resurrection of Christ. We will see the importance of the Resurrection being true and its implications for our salvation.
The post CSI Jerusalem | John 20:1-10 appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
April 3, 2022 (Fifth Sunday of Lent): Our actions toward someone are the best indicator of our true opinion of them. If we truly love someone, our actions toward that person are gracious, kind, loving, and helpful. Sometimes they are even extravagant. Such is the case of Lazarus and his two sisters. Lazarus is grateful […]
The post An Extravagant Gift | John 12:1-8 appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
March 27, 2022 (Fourth Sunday of Lent): When we become Christians, we are reconciled to God. This is not a work that we do; Jesus did the work. He made reconciliation available to us without our being able to earn it. The result of this reconciled life is transformation in our outlook, our status, and […]
The post Ministry of Reconciliation | 2 Corinthians 5:16-6:2 appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
March 20, 2022 (Third Sunday of Lent): Isaiah gives the nation of Israel (and us) an invitation to look to the Lord for our needs. In order to receive what the Lord is offering, however, we must accept the invitation. We must also turn away from the things that would distract us from Him. We […]
The post Seek the Lord | Isaiah 55:1-9 appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
March 13, 2022 (Second Sunday of Lent): Events in the world provide an endless barrage of things calling us to fear. The scripture tells us to be strong and have courage. Today we will see how that is possible from Psalm 27.
The post Wait For the Lord | Psalm 27:1-14 appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
March 6, 2022 (First Sunday of Lent): How do we handle temptation? Is it even a legitimate temptation if it is for a good thing? Today, we examine the temptation of Jesus in the wilderness and see how we have the same power to resist.
The post We Will Be Tempted | Luke 4:1-13 appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
February 27, 2022: Today we take a look at the Transfiguration, an event where Peter, James, and John were able to witness the glory of Jesus. As we will see, it is important to not overlook Christ’s glory and pay attention to Him.
The post The Chosen One | Luke 9:28-36 appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
February 13, 2022: Today we see the necessity of being poor enough to recognize our need of Christ.
The post Rejoice In That Day | Luke 6:17-26 appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
February 6, 2022: Many people want to treat Jesus as something to be added to their lives to make it better. But the call of Christ on anyone’s life is “follow Me.” We see today from Jesus’s call of Peter, James, and John the need for us to hear, heed, and follow Him.
The post A Good Day Fishing | Luke 5:1-11 appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
Today we see what happened when Jesus preached in His hometown.
The post Hometown Zero: Luke 4:16-30 appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
December 26, 2021—Today we look at an event that only Luke mentions. Twelve-year-old Jesus is accidentally left in Jerusalem after the Passover festival and continues going to the Temple, learning His Father’s business.
The post My Father’s House: Luke 2:41-52 appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
December 19, 2021—Today we examine what we can learn from Mary’s visit to Elizabeth.
The post My Spirit Rejoices! Luke 1:39-56 appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
December 12, 2021—As we celebrate the birth of Christ in this season, we continue to look forward to His return. Today, as we look to the prophet Zephaniah, we see some things that should cause us to rejoice.
The post Sing for Joy! Zephaniah 3:14-20 appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
December 5, 2021—As we look forward to Christ’s return in glory, we look back to the events surrounding His incarnation. Today, we see that John the Baptist preached in the wilderness, calling people to repentance. This was in preparation for Jesus’ earthly ministry. Our lives now must show repentance as a await His return.
The post A Baptism of Repentance: Luke 3:1-14 appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
November 28, 2021—Now is the season when we look forward to celebrating the birth of Christ. It is also a good time to be reminded that He is coming again. We should take time to remember that His return is certain, it is closer than ever before, and we must be prepared for it.
The post Then They Will See: Luke 21:25-36 appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
November 21, 2021—God’s people are to be a praying people. Today, we will discover from Paul’s first letter to Timothy that we are to pray thankfully, boldly, and evangelistically.
The post One Mediator: 1 Timothy 2:1-6 appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
November 14, 2021—Concluding the book of Acts is a brief account of Paul’s time in custody in Rome. Scholars believe that he was released after this imprisonment because his accusers, knowing that they could not win, did not bother to show up. During this two years, we see how Paul uses his time, his situation, […]
The post Without Hindrance: Acts 28:16-31 appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
November 7, 2021—Paul has been held for two years in Caesarea. Now a new governor is in town, and Paul’s accusers renew their calls for his death. In this short account of his meeting with Festus, Paul realizes that he has no choice but to go to the highest court in the land. As we […]
The post I Appeal to Caesar: Acts 25:1-12 appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
October 31, 2021—We pick up with Paul being hauled out of the temple by the Roman guards who have just saved his life. On the way out, he gains permission to speak to the Jews. He then uses this time to share his testimony. Today, from Paul’s example, we will see the importance of sharing […]
The post Paul’s Defense: Acts 21:37-22:22 appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
October 24, 2021—When Paul arrives in Jerusalem with the good news of how many Gentiles have become Christians, he gets a reality check. James informs him that many Jewish Christians believe that Paul has been teaching things that he has not. In order to persuade them differently, they have a plan for him to partner […]
The post Riot at the Temple: Acts 21:15-36 appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
October 17, 2021—In Paul’s farewell address to the Ephesian elders, he leaves them with words of wisdom which still apply to the church today. We are reminded that we must follow the Holy Spirit’s leading, even when it will take us where we do not want to go. Paul reminds us of the importance of […]
The post Passing the Torch: Acts 20:17-38 appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
October 10, 2021—Today we see that the gospel always brings opposition, changes the way we spend our money, and changes our identity.
The post Protecting Idols: Acts 19:21-41 appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
October 3, 2021—Are you operating out of a genuine relationship with Christ? Today, we see the difference between operating within God’s power and operating outside of it. We do not want to find ourselves in the dangerous position of engaging in spiritual warfare without the Holy Spirit.
The post But Who Are You? Acts 19:11-20 appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
September 26, 2021: Today we encounter some believers who needed to be instructed more thoroughly and see the results of this instruction.
The post Theology Matters: Acts 18:24-19:7 appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
September 19, 2021: Today, for the first time, we see Paul engage those outside the religious community. Observing the images that people are worshipping, Paul feels compelled to tell them about Jesus. Does our observance of the lostness around us lead us to tell them about Jesus?
The post At the Aereopagus: Acts 17:16-34 appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
September 12, 2021: Today we see two very different reactions to the gospel.
The post More Noble: Acts 17:1-15 appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
Today we learn from the attitude of Paul and Silas as they suffer in the Philippian jail.
The post Chains Came Loose: Acts 16:25-34 appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
Today we discuss how we should relate to our fellow Christians.
The post “Real Christians”: Acts 15:1-35 appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
August 8, 2021: In Chapter 13 of Acts, our attention is turned to Paul on his first missionary journey. After what seems like a good start, Paul and Barnabas encounter opposition. Many people reject Christ rather than allow Him to change their lives.
The post Since You Reject It: Acts 13:42-52 appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
August 1, 2021: (Acts 12:1-25) Can you trust God’s plan? What if He doesn’t rescue you from the situation you’re in? What if He doesn’t answer your prayers the way you expect? Today, we see Peter trust God completely and learn that we must do the same.
The post Escape From Antonia: Acts 12:1-25 appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
July 25, 2021: Continuing through Acts, we return to Peter. He has made his way to Joppa, where he sees a strange vision, then a command to go share the gospel with a centurion in Caesarea. Here, Peter is forced to deal with his prejudices and assumptions about who will be welcomed into the family […]
The post The Gentile Pentecost: Acts 10:1-48 appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
July 18, 2021: Saul was as religious as he could be. In fact, he was so enthusiastic about his religion that he was willing to jail and kill disciples of Christ. That is, until he found himself confronted with the resurrected Lord. When confronted with the truth, Saul repented and became one of the most […]
The post Blinded By the Light: Acts 9:1-31 appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
July 11, 2021: As we continue through Acts, we see God move Philip away from a successful ministry in Samaria. God commands Philip to go to a deserted place in order for him to reach one specific person. We see God’s hand in preparing Philip and the Ethiopian official for this encounter. Philip can easily […]
The post Get Up and Go: Acts 8:26-40 appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
In continuing through Acts, we see that persecution forces the church out of Jerusalem. As the result, many people will come to know Christ, including the people of Samaria.
The post Those Who Were Scattered: Acts 8:1-25 appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
As the early church grew, a problem with distributing charity equitably came to the forefront. Today, we see how the apostles handled the problem.
The post There Arose a Complaint: Acts 6:1-7 appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
Today we continue our study of the book of Acts.
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Today we continue learning about the early church from the book of Acts.
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Today we see Peter and John’s boldness and their reliance on the Holy Spirit.
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As we make worship a lifestyle, we must be prepared to submit to the Holy Spirit’s leading.
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Today we get a glimpse into the life of the early church in Jerusalem.
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Today we see the first sermon preached to the Church on the day of Pentecost.
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Today we see the giving of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost.
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Today we see the importance of prayer to the church.
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Today we begin our study of the book of Acts.
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The sermon for Resurrection Day 2021 is taken from 1 Corinthians 15:1-11.
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Today we look at those who surrounded Jesus before and during His triumphal entry and discern genuine worship from false worship.
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Today we see what Jesus said to the Jews who believed Him at the Feast of Tabernacles.
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Today we hear more of Jesus’ words at the Feast of Tabernacles.
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Today, as we continue through John 7, we meet four different types of people. We will examine the response of the fan, the skeptic, the hater, and finally the disciple.
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Today we look at Jesus’ teaching at the Feast of Tabernacles.
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Welcome to Transfiguration Sunday. Today, we take a look at Mark’s account of this event witnessed by Peter, James, and John. We’ll see that they have the privilege of seeing the Son’s glory as well as two Old Testament heroes of the faith. This will provide them some hope for difficult days ahead.
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As we look at Mark 1:29-39 today, let us ponder the question, “What has God healed or delivered me from?” As we think about this, we can usually think of something. The next question is, “What am I doing for Him as the result?” As we look at an instance of divine healing today, lets […]
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Are you allowing Christ to speak into your life? If so, how much? When? Where? To what degree do you listen? The words of Christ always have the power to transform your life. His word is the power to speak life and cast out evil. Do we allow Him to do that in our lives? […]
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God gave Jonah a simple message to proclaim to the people of Nineveh. When Jonah finally obeyed, many people avoided destruction as a result. Today, we look at the call, the message, the result, and the mercy that we see in Jonah 3:1-10.
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Between TV, social media, and real people in our lives, a lot of voices are competing for our attention. Our disposition is largely dependent on which voices we allow into our heads and our hearts. Today, we discuss listening to the most important voice of all.
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Today, we look at the baptism of Christ. We, as Baptists, affirm believer’s baptism, meaning that we reserve this ordinance for those who have made a conscious decision to follow Christ in their lives. Since we believe that believers must seek out baptism, it is important to take a look at what being baptized requires […]
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Epiphany is traditionally celebrated on January 6th, twelve days after Christmas. It is the observance of the Magi from the East making their visit to Jesus in Bethlehem. Many of us have seen the saying, “Wise men still seek Him.” While we know precious little about the visit of the Magi, we see that their […]
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When Jesus was 40 days old, He was taken to the temple to be consecrated, as the Law required. While there, He was recognized by two people who were watching for His coming, Simeon and Anna. In the same way that these two recognized Him, we must recognize Him as well.
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Every year at Christmas, we read the familiar narrative of the angel Gabriel’s encounter with Mary. While we often think of this as simply an announcement that Mary is going to have a baby, we must realize that it is much more. More even than an announcement of the Savior, it is the announcement of […]
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Do you ever wonder what your life would have been like if you had made different choices? Today, as we look at Mary, we can be thankful that she allowed God to use her in a miraculous way. We look at her heartfelt words known as “The Magnificat” and see that she trusts God in […]
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Are you prepared for the Lord’s return? Do you even believe that it’s going to happen? The return of the Christ can seem a long way off, but the truth is that we never know when He will return. Are you looking forward to His return, or are you dreading it? Today, with the help […]
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Throughout history, many people have tried to improperly use the Scriptures as a calendar. Men have been trying to pinpoint the return of Christ almost since the Ascension, even though Jesus clearly said that only the Father knows the time. If we think of the Bible as more of a map, we can (with careful […]
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It may seem hard to be thankful during the COVID-19 pandemic of 2020. We feel like we have lost so much: so many people, so much time with our family and friends, so much irritation with wearing masks. As we enter the Thanksgiving season in earnest, let us take the time to be thankful in […]
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Today, we finish our study in Hebrews with Chapter 13. We will take a lot at the things that God calls us to reject and the things that He calls us to accept.
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Today, as we continue through Hebrews, in chapter 12 we observe that the Christian life requires endurance. We must endure as Christ endured, endure with discipline, and we must endure together.
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A claim of faith in Christ, without evidence of works, is useless and more likely evidence of a dead faith. Today, we see from the epistle of James the inseparability of faith and works.
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Today as we continue through Hebrews, we see how important it is to draw near to Christ and to draw near to other believers.
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As we continue our look at Hebrews, we note today that importance that Christ came only once to be offered for our sins. The next time He comes, it will be to gather His people.
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As we continue through Hebrews, today we see why Christ is the mediator of a better covenant.
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As we pick up in Hebrews 7, we see that the author resumes the point made in chapter 5. We will see why it is important that Jesus is a “priest forever in the order of Melchizedek.” We also look at five characteristics of Christ’s priesthood. His priesthood is divine, effectual, eternal, perpetual, and perfect.
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Is growing up really optional? See what the Bible has to say in Hebrews 5:11-6:12.
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What do you all picture a priest looking like? Or doing? Some of you may have spent time in churches that still call men priests. What was their role? A priest really has two roles. He represents God to the people, and he represents the people to God. These roles are important to remember today […]
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We continue of study of Hebrews with Chapter 3’s clear reminders to not “harden our hearts.”
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Last week we started on the book of Hebrews. We noted that Chapter 1 tells us that God has spoken through His Son in these last days and that His Son rules eternally. Today, in Chapter 2, we see reminders that we shouldn’t drift, we shouldn’t think anything is out of His control, and we […]
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This week, we start looking at the book of Hebrews.
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From Proverbs 9: Today, we note Wisdom’s invitation to those who are simple. Join us as we explore the key differences between wisdom and folly.
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Today in our Summer of Psalms, we examine Psalm 140.
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Today, we look at a penitent psalm, written our of deep sorrow over sin. We will see how David recognized, as we must, that we are sinful. David also realized that he could not fix his sin problem. Today, we examine Psalm 51.
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From July 26, 2020: As we continue through our “Summer of Psalms”, today we examine a wisdom psalm. Psalm 1 contrasts the way of the wise with the way of the wicked.
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DELAYED POST: This sermon is from July 19, 2020. We are continuing to look at some psalms this summer, to gain an appreciation for them. Today we are looking at a Royal Psalm. These psalms recognize God as the ruler of the earth and give honor and glory to Him. Today, we look at Psalm […]
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DELAYED POST: This sermon, from Psalm 16, is from July 12th. From this, we see that we can trust in God’s protection and providence.
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Today, we note from Psalm 148 that all of creation exists for the worship of God.
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Today we begin our look into the Bible’s built-in songbook. There are 150 psalms (not chapters) in the Book of Psalms, and like our songs, they express worship. Today, we look at a lament that is just as relevant now as it was when written.
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Today, we examine the familiar parable of the prodigal son. Jesus uses this story to tell us a great deal about the love and forgiveness of God.
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Today, we examine Jesus’ interaction with the Samaritan woman at the well from John 4. We find out that Jesus loves her enough to tell her the truth and share hope with her. This woman’s belief causes many others to come to Christ as well.
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Today, in our return to the sanctuary, we look at the first sermon to the church. Preached immediately after receiving the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, it is a great example for all sermons. Peter addresses the fundamental questions of “Why is this happening?”, “How is Jesus involved?”, and “What must we do?”
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Today, we take a look at the miracle of Pentecost. We observe the sound, the sight, and the speech when the Holy Spirit came upon the disciples.
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“DR0000_0133.mp3” from TASCAM DR-05.
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Today, we see that Jesus is the Good Shepherd and contrast Him with the many false shepherds. From John 10:1-18.
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Today we learn about Jochebed, the mother of Moses from Exodus 2:1-10.
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When Jesus performs the miracle of giving sight to a man who had been born blind, not everyone reacted positively. Some people denied the miracle. Some people accused Jesus of sin. Finally, many rejected Him and those who followed Him. The same things happen today.
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We have learned a lot of lessons from dealing with COVID-19. We know that if we hang out with sick people, we can get sick. We know that sick people don’t always act sick. And we also know that me must distance ourselves from those who would make us sick. These same principles apply […]
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We are all prone to drift away from God and His will for our lives. As we do, we endanger ourselves, not realizing that if we do not worship God, we will worship something else. This may be institutions, strengths, or even stability. We must turn away from these things and return to God.
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Acts 10:34-43 is a great summary presentation of the gospel. It is the message that Peter was preaching to Cornelius and his household. It is also a great reminder of the importance of Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection. This passage also reminds us that one day, we will all be judged, and need to […]
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As we continue toward Easter, today we look at a “Palm Sunday” passage. In chapter 21, Matthew tells of Jesus riding into Jerusalem on the colt of a donkey. He is announcing His kingdom. He makes Himself known as the Messiah. People shout, “Hosanna!” which means “save us.” He does, just not in the way […]
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In this week’s passage, we read that Ezekiel is dropped into a valley of dry bones. God commands him to prophesy to the bones so that they may live. God has a long history of taking things that are dead and making them alive. In fact, He did this to us through Christ. Today’s passage […]
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After the death of Jesus, His disciples were fearfully hiding, locked in a room. It was during this time that He chose to reveal Himself alive in a mighty way to them.
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One night, after observing the works of Jesus and His teaching, a curious religious leader named Nicodemus comes to visit Him. The words of Jesus in this situation can be confusing, “You must be born again.” Today, we will see that Jesus was not referring to just improving our lives, as many would have us […]
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Today, we conclude the 2020 Vision series with the fifth “G” which is Go Time. Matthew 28:19-20 gives us what is commonly known as the Great Commission. Today we see that it is not only for the apostles, but for us as well.
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As we continue to learn to ABIDE, CONNECT, and SHARE, we have already learned that in order to abide, we need God Time. In order to connect, we need Gather Time and Group Time. Today, we start learning to share with our fourth “G” which is Give Time. The post 2020 Vision: Give Time appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
This week as we continue the 2020 Vision series, we discuss the third “G” which is Group Time. Today’s sermon text is Acts 2:41-47. The post 2020 Vision: Group Time appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
As we continue our 2020 Vision series, today we discuss “Gather Time”, the second “G” of the 5 Gs. Taken from Hebrews 10, we see what it means to worship the Lord together, not neglecting the fellowship. The post 2020 Vision: Gather Time appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
We have previously noted that disciples of Christ do three things: abide, connect, and share. The how of doing these things involves 5 G’s: God Time, Gather Time, Group Time, Give Time, and Go Time. Today, we see that God Time is essential to living the Christian life. We are also challenged to give the first and best of our time to Him.
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Today in our 2020 Vision series, we note that true disciples of Christ share. Specifically, disciples must first share the gospel with unbelievers. Disciples also share teaching with other disciples. Disciples also have their priorities straight, and are definitely not ashamed of the gospel. Today’s sermon comes from 2 Timothy 1:8-2:4. The post 2020 Vision: A Church That Shares appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
As we continue our 2020 Visionseries, we see today that we must connect with others in the church. It is simply inconceivable to be a “Lone Ranger” Christian. Each of us has a role to play in the body of Christ. The post 2020 Vision: A Church That Connects appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
As we kick off the year 2020, we will note that a true disciple of Christ does three things. A true disciple of Christ abides, connects, and shares. Today, we look at the first of these three from John 15:1-8. The post 2020 Vision: A Church That Abides appeared first on Sappony Baptist Church.
Today, we observe from Hebrews 2:10-18 that Christ’s birth brought us some great gifts.
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For the fourth Sunday of Advent, we look at Matthew’s account of the birth of Jesus from Matthew 1:18-25.
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