Cloverdale Free Presbyterian Church B.C.: Recent Episodes
Baptism - Part 1 - Matthew 28:18-20 This sermon presents a comprehensive theological reflection on baptism as a divinely instituted ordinance of Christ, rooted in the Great Commission of Matthew 28:19 and central to the worship and identity of the church. It emphasizes baptism as a covenantal sign and seal of the grace of God, symbolizing union with Christ, regeneration, remission of sins, and entrance into the visible church, while affirming that it does not save or regenerate the heart but points to Christ alone. The preacher upholds a position of respectful openness within the Free Presbyterian Church, allowing for differing views on the subjects and modes of baptism while maintaining unity in the fundamental truths of the gospel and rejecting both ritualism and division. Ultimately, the sermon calls believers to personal obedience to Christ's command, urging those who have not yet been baptized to consider it as a vital act of worship and public profession of faith, and challenging all to examine whether their outward sign reflects an inward reality of union with Christ.
Death Abolished - 2nd Timothy 1:10 The sermon centers on the transformative truth that through the incarnation, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, death has been abolished for believers, not merely delayed or softened but decisively conquered. Drawing from 2 Timothy 1:10, it emphasizes that death—originally introduced by sin and universally reigning over humanity—is no longer the final enemy because Christ, the sinless Son of God, entered into human suffering, bore the penalty of sin on the cross, and triumphed over death through His resurrection. This victory dismantles the fear of death, spiritual separation, and eternal condemnation, transforming physical death into a passage into eternal life with Christ. The preacher underscores that Christ's purpose was not to merely comfort the dying but to destroy the power of death, liberating believers from lifelong bondage to fear and securing their eternal hope. As a result, the believer can face suffering and even death with confidence, knowing that the grave has been defeated and that the gospel brings life and immortality to light through the finished work of Christ.
The Tragedy of Unbelief Before the Revealed Christ - Isaiah 53:1 Isaiah 53:1 opens with a profound lament over the widespread unbelief that meets the greatest report ever proclaimed—the gospel of Christ, the suffering and exalted Servant who bore sin and secured salvation. The sermon emphasizes that this divine message, though clear and powerful, is met with spiritual blindness and rejection not due to lack of evidence, but because of the heart's rebellion against God's grace. It underscores that true faith is not a natural human response but a supernatural work of God's sovereign power, as the 'arm of the Lord' must be revealed to awaken the dead in trespasses. The tragedy of unbelief is not merely ignorance, but a moral refusal to embrace the Savior, leading to eternal condemnation, and thus calls for urgent repentance, heartfelt evangelism, and dependence on divine grace. Ultimately, the passage calls every listener to personally respond: Have you believed the report? Is Christ your Savior?
The sermon affirms that a faithful confession of faith is essential for the church's doctrinal integrity, rooted in Scripture and designed to protect against error, promote unity, and preserve historical continuity. Drawing from Acts 20 and 1 Timothy 3, it emphasizes that the church, as the pillar and ground of truth, must uphold a clear, systematic summary of biblical teaching—such as the Westminster Standards—to guard against false doctrine and cultural compromise. Confessions are not substitutes for Scripture but vital tools that systematize truth, guide worship and practice, and ensure consistency in preaching, discipline, and leadership. They foster accountability, encourage humility, and provide stability in an age of theological drift, enabling the church to remain anchored in the unchanging Word of God while maintaining a credible witness to the world.
This sermon presents the regulative principle of worship as the foundational doctrine governing how God is to be honored, asserting that worship must be conducted only according to the explicit commands of Scripture, not human tradition, preference, or cultural trends. Rooted in passages such as Deuteronomy 12:32 and Leviticus 10, it emphasizes that God alone defines worship, and any addition or innovation not divinely authorized—such as unauthorized rituals or contemporary musical styles—risks becoming rebellion, as seen in the judgment of Nadab and Abihu and the death of Uzzah. The sermon contrasts this with the normative principle, which permits anything not explicitly forbidden, arguing that such an approach undermines divine authority and leads to worldly, entertainment-driven worship. It defends the necessity of biblical authority in all elements of worship—preaching, prayer, singing, and order—while distinguishing between essential elements, which are divinely commanded, and circumstantial details, which may vary by context. Ultimately, the principle safeguards the purity, holiness, and God-centeredness of worship, affirming that obedience to Scripture, not human creativity or cultural relevance, is the only path to true worship in spirit and truth.
The sermon centers on the necessity of worshiping God in both spirit and truth, as commanded in John 4:24, arguing that contemporary Christian music (CCM) often fails this standard by promoting a diminished view of God, a softened gospel, and a distorted understanding of human depravity and Christ's redemptive work. It critiques CCM not merely for specific doctrinal errors—such as the denial of eternal hell, the elevation of human initiative in salvation, or the promotion of prosperity theology—but for its broader cultural and theological alignment with movements like Pentecostalism and charismaticism, which conflict with Reformed convictions. The sermon emphasizes that worship must be judged by Scripture, not emotional appeal or popularity, and calls for discernment akin to the Bereans' diligent examination of the Word, warning that music, like preaching, carries theology and must be tested for doctrinal fidelity. It further underscores that the church must reject not only false teaching in the pulpit but also the subtle influence of unbiblical doctrines embedded in worship music, especially when artists promote views contrary to biblical marriage, the nature of salvation, or the sovereignty of God.
Adult Bible Class - The Genre of CCM - Romans 12:1-2 The sermon presents a robust theological defense of ecclesiastical separation, rooted in Scripture and the Reformed tradition, arguing that contemporary Christian music (CCM) undermines this principle by mirroring worldly entertainment, embracing secular influences, and promoting ecumenical unity at the expense of doctrinal purity. It contends that CCM's musical styles, performance culture, emotionalism, and celebrity-driven ethos reflect the spirit of the world rather than the holiness and distinctiveness required in worship, violating the command to be transformed by the renewing of the mind and to come out from among the unclean. The sermon further warns that CCM often arises from and promotes the charismatic movement, which it identifies as a threat due to its rejection of biblical sufficiency, continuation of miraculous gifts, and unbiblical practices such as grave soaking, while also highlighting how prominent CCM groups like Rend Collective engage in ecumenical collaboration with Roman Catholicism and promote cultural compromises—such as alcohol use and casual language—that contradict Reformed convictions. Ultimately, the sermon calls the church to remain distinct, grounded in Scripture, and committed to the exclusive worship of God, affirming that true fellowship with Christ demands separation from spiritual error and worldly compromise.
Earnestly Contending 75 Years Later - Part 2 - Jude v3-4 The sermon centers on the urgent call to 'earnestly contend for the faith once delivered to the saints,' drawing from Jude 3–4 to emphasize the persistent, subtle danger of internal corruption within the church. It warns that false teachers, though not openly hostile, infiltrate quietly by distorting God's grace into license, undermining the authority of Scripture, and denying the deity and saving work of Christ, thereby eroding the gospel's foundation. The preacher underscores that such threats are not merely historical but remain present, manifesting in moralism, ecumenical compromise, and theological compromise that dilute the gospel, and calls for spiritual discernment, personal faithfulness, and a return to Christ-centered dependence. The church's enduring duty is to preserve the unchanging gospel of salvation by grace alone through faith in Christ alone, not by tradition or cultural accommodation, and to rely on God's sovereignty and the transforming power of the cross, which remains the only hope for eternal life.
The sermon centers on the biblical imperative for believers to be distinct from the world, grounded in Romans 12:2 and 2 Corinthians 6:17, which call for transformation through the renewing of the mind and separation from worldly influences. It critiques contemporary Christian music (CCM) not merely as a matter of musical preference but as a theological issue rooted in the regulative principle of worship, arguing that CCM often reflects worldly aesthetics, entertainment culture, and doctrinal compromise, undermining the church's identity as a people called out from the world. Drawing on the writings of Peter Masters, the sermon identifies six flawed worship styles—personal pleasure, worldly, aesthetic, ecstatic, shallow, and informal—highlighting how CCM exemplifies these by prioritizing emotionalism, performance, and cultural relevance over biblical truth and congregational worship. The sermon affirms that true worship must be shaped by Scripture alone, not by cultural trends, and rejects CCM because it weakens ecclesiastical and personal separation, promotes a seeker-friendly entertainment model, and risks aligning the church with the spirit of the world rather than the glory of God. Ultimately, the church's worship is to reflect the majesty of God through doctrinally rich, biblically faithful hymns that distinguish it from the world's music and values.
Living in the Light of God's Goodness - Psalm 136:1 Psalm 136, with its repeated refrain 'for His mercy endureth forever,' serves as a powerful call to recognize, trust, reflect, and praise the unchanging goodness of God, whose covenant faithfulness is revealed throughout creation, redemption, and providence. The sermon emphasizes that God's goodness is not a subjective feeling or a cultural slogan, but an essential attribute of His being, fully revealed in the redemptive work of Christ, who bore the wrath of God to secure eternal mercy for sinners. Believers are called to see God's goodness not in prosperity alone, but in the cross, where divine justice and mercy converge, and to respond with heartfelt thanksgiving, trust in trials, imitation of divine grace in daily life, and worship that flows from a redeemed heart. The psalm's historical and theological depth is refracted through the lens of Christ, showing that all of God's acts—creation, deliverance, conquest, and preservation—point to the ultimate fulfillment in the salvation purchased by Jesus, making the believer's assurance secure and their life a living testimony of God's enduring mercy.
This sermon, rooted in Deuteronomy 12:31 and the Westminster Confession of Faith, emphasizes that true worship is divinely regulated, not shaped by human tradition or imagination, and must conform strictly to Scripture. It unfolds the Puritan principle of the regulative nature of worship—where every element, from prayer and Scripture reading to preaching and sacraments, is grounded in biblical command and designed to sanctify the believer. The preacher underscores that worship is not merely ritual but a transformative means of grace, intended to humble pride, mortify sin, deepen love for Christ, and edify the church through the Word, prayer, and sacraments. Drawing from the Public Directory of Worship, the sermon calls for reverent, focused participation—free from distraction, worldly recreation, or irreverent behavior—while highlighting the necessity of faithful, clear, and application-driven preaching that challenges the heart and calls for repentance. Ultimately, worship is presented as a holy, ordered practice that glorifies God and sanctifies His people, reflecting the enduring conviction that God is to be honored in spirit and truth, according to His revealed will.
The Priority of Scripture in Public Worship, The Centrality of Scripture in Public Worship, The Perpetuity of Scripture in Public Worship
This sermon centers on the regulative principle of worship, rooted in Deuteronomy 12:32 and upheld by the Puritans, which demands that worship be conducted only according to God's revealed will, not human innovation. Drawing from the Westminster Confession of Faith and the historical witness of the Puritans, it emphasizes that true worship is not a stage for creativity or entertainment but an act of obedience grounded in Scripture, with preaching, prayer, Scripture reading, and the sacraments as divinely appointed means. The sermon critiques modern worship trends that prioritize spectacle and cultural relevance over biblical fidelity, warning that such practices risk idolatry by placing human preferences above divine command. It affirms the sufficiency of Scripture, the necessity of confessional standards for doctrinal clarity and unity, and the importance of Sabbath-keeping as a holy day set apart for God-centered rest and worship. Ultimately, the sermon calls the church to return to a worship that is decent, orderly, and wholly centered on the Word of God, reflecting a deep commitment to the Reformed tradition's enduring conviction that God alone determines how He is to be worshipped.
Christ Reveals His Kingdom - Matthew 4:23-25 The sermon presents a comprehensive vision of Christ's kingdom as revealed in Matthew 4:23–25, emphasizing that the kingdom is not established through worldly power but through the faithful proclamation of truth, the display of divine power, and the expression of compassionate love. Central to this revelation is the priority of preaching the gospel of the kingdom—Christ's teaching and heralding of divine truth as the foundation of spiritual transformation, which the church must uphold as its primary mission. This truth is authenticated by miracles that demonstrate Christ's authority over sickness, sin, and demonic oppression, pointing to the spiritual healing and renewal available through His grace. The sermon warns against measuring ministry by crowd size or emotional appeal, instead calling believers to respond to Christ's kingdom with serious hearing, humble reception, and full obedience, recognizing that true salvation comes through repentance and faith in the gospel. Ultimately, the kingdom of Christ is revealed not in spectacle, but in the enduring power of the Word, the transformative work of grace, and the compassionate presence of a Savior who heals both body and soul.
Reformed worship is defined by its exclusive focus on Christ, grounded in Scripture, and centered on His sovereign authority and redemptive work. It rejects man-centered practices, whether through emotionalism, self-expression, or human tradition, and instead exalts Christ in every element of worship—preaching, prayer, praise, and the sacraments—because He is the only mediator, the object of faith, and the foundation of true worship. The sermon emphasizes that Christ must be the preeminent subject of every act of worship, not merely mentioned but magnified as Lord, Savior, and Redeemer, with all Scripture, song, prayer, and sacramental practice pointing to His finished work on the cross. This Christ-centered worship is not optional but essential, as it preserves the gospel, corrects false worship, and aligns the church with God's revealed will, ensuring that every aspect of worship glorifies Christ and prepares believers for eternal fellowship with Him.
Calling Disciples - Matthew 4:18-22 The sermon centers on the radical call of Christ to discipleship as illustrated in Matthew 4:19, where Jesus commands Peter and Andrew to 'follow me and I will make you fishers of men.' It emphasizes that true discipleship is not a program or optional add-on to faith, but the very essence of the Christian life—marked by immediate, obedient surrender to Christ's sovereign authority. The preacher underscores that discipleship begins not with human initiative but with divine calling, where Christ perceives, redeems, and transforms individuals by grace, not works. This transformation is evidenced by a complete reorientation of life: leaving behind worldly attachments, embracing self-denial, and living under Christ's lordship through faith, repentance, and submission to Scripture. Ultimately, Christ's purpose in calling disciples is not merely to save them from judgment, but to conform them to His character and equip them for the mission of making disciples, reflecting His holiness and glory in a broken world.
The sermon presents a robust defense of the King James Version as the most trustworthy and theologically faithful English translation of Scripture, grounded in its reliance on the Masoretic and Textus Receptus texts, the godly character and scholarly rigor of its 54 translators, and its commitment to formal equivalence, which preserves the original structure and wording with precision. It argues that modern translations, based on the critical text and often influenced by secular or heterodox agendas, risk altering key doctrines—such as the divinity of Christ and the virgin birth—by omitting or downgrading passages, thereby undermining the authority and clarity of God's Word. The sermon emphasizes that accurate translation is not merely linguistic but deeply spiritual, requiring translators who fear God, are committed to Scripture's inerrancy, and are held accountable through collective review. It concludes by affirming the KJV's enduring value not only for doctrinal fidelity and consistency but also for its majestic, reverent language that reflects the sacred nature of Scripture, calling every believer to a personal, daily engagement with God's Word as a lamp to the feet and a light to the path.
The sermon affirms the divine inspiration and enduring authority of Scripture, emphasizing that the original Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek texts are the only divinely inspired Word of God, while translations, though valuable, are human efforts requiring fidelity, care, and reverence. It defends the King James Version as a faithful, formally equivalent translation rooted in the original languages and historical scholarship, not as an inspired text itself, but as a trusted instrument of God's providence. The sermon critiques KJV-onlyism and Ruckmanism as unbiblical extremes that elevate a translation above the original languages, insisting instead on the necessity of studying the biblical texts in their original tongues for full theological understanding. It traces the history of English Bible translation from Wycliffe to Tyndale and the authorized 1611 version, highlighting the collaborative, prayerful, and scholarly nature of the KJV's creation as a testament to God's preservation of His Word. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deep reverence for Scripture, a commitment to accurate translation, and gratitude for the godly men who endured suffering to make God's Word accessible across generations.
The sermon centers on the biblical necessity and divine purpose of Scripture translation, drawing from the Pentecost event in Acts 2 where the apostles spoke in the listeners' native languages, demonstrating that God's message is for all nations and must be understood in their own tongue. It emphasizes that faithful translation is not a modern innovation but a biblically grounded mandate rooted in the Great Commission, where Christ commands the gospel to be preached to every creature in their own language, affirming Christ's lordship over all peoples. The sermon underscores that translation is essential for faith, worship, and discipleship, as understanding the Word is vital for belief, and thus Scripture must be rendered in the common, accessible language of each people group. It warns against the dangers of unfaithful or biased translations, stressing that doctrinal purity and gospel clarity depend on accuracy, and calls the church to support and pray for faithful translation work worldwide, recognizing it as a stewardship of God's revealed truth.
The Prince of Peace - Isaiah 9:6 The sermon centers on the title 'Prince of Peace' as revealed in Isaiah 9:6, emphasizing that true, lasting peace is not found in human efforts, political solutions, or temporary agreements, but exclusively in Jesus Christ, the incarnate Son of God. Rooted in the historical darkness of Israel's sin and exile, the prophecy points to Christ as the divine King whose peace is secured through His identity as the Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Wonderful Counselor, and whose reign brings reconciliation, victory over sin and death, and eternal rest. The sermon underscores that this peace is not emotional or circumstantial, but a profound spiritual reality grounded in justification by faith, the breaking down of the dividing wall of sin, and the atoning work of Christ on the cross. It calls believers to embrace Christ's humility, reject self-reliance, and live in the grace of His incarnation, which reveals God's sovereign mercy toward sinners, and to proclaim this peace as the only hope for a broken world.
- Continue Thou in Doctrine 2. Continue Thou with Assurance 3. Continue Thou Despite Hindrances 4. Continue Thou in Godliness
- A Burden for the Ungodly in Society 2. A Desire to reveal the unknown God 3. A Declaration of the equality of all Men 4. A Refutation of False Beliefs 5. A Proclamation of God's Command to Repent 6. An Exhortation Concerning the Final Judgement 7. A Presentation of the Saviour
1.The Means of Grace are God-Appointed4 2.The Means of Grace are Christ-Centered 3.The Means of Grace are Spirit-Applied
Adult Bible Class - The Canon of Scripture Adult Bible Class - The Canon of Scripture - 2 Peter 1:19
1.A Serious Problem to Avoid 2.A Divine Precept to Embrace 3.A Godly Purpose to Cultivate 4.A Blessed Practice to Pursue The sermon centers on Hebrews 10:25, calling believers to faithfully assemble together in worship and fellowship as a vital means of grace, especially in times of trial and spiritual drift. It emphasizes that neglecting corporate worship is not merely a personal habit but a symptom of deeper spiritual decline, rooted in individualism, worldliness, and a waning affection for God, which can lead to apostasy. The passage is presented not as a legalistic demand, but as a loving, pastoral exhortation grounded in the believer's covenantal union with Christ, where corporate worship strengthens faith, fosters mutual encouragement, and prepares God's people for Christ's return. The sermon underscores that true spiritual nourishment comes through active participation in the gathered church—through preaching, prayer, fellowship, and exhortation—not merely passive attendance or digital substitutes—and calls believers to prioritize the Lord's Day as a foretaste of eternal glory, where Christ is exalted and souls are built up for the day approaching.
Separation from God - Isaiah 59:1-2 1.The Cause - Sin 2. The Nature - Separated 3. The Expression - Hid His Face 4. The Consequence - He Will Not Hear 5. The Surety - The Lord's Hand is not Shortened
The Word That Will Not Return Void - Isaiah 55:10-11 Isaiah 55:10–11 reveals the divine certainty, purpose, and power of God's Word, which, like rain and snow from heaven, never returns void but accomplishes exactly what God intends. Rooted in the unchanging authority of God, the Word is not a human utterance but a sovereign, inspired revelation that carries divine efficacy, ensuring it will not fail in its mission to convict, convert, and build the people of God. Though results may be unseen or delayed, the Word operates with unstoppable effectiveness, transforming hearts across generations—even through sermons preached decades ago and heard in unexpected moments. This truth calls believers to reverence, confidence, and perseverance in proclaiming Scripture, trusting that God's purpose is fulfilled not by human skill but by the eternal power of His Word, which ultimately glorifies Him and brings eternal life to those who hear it.
The sermon establishes church membership as a biblically grounded, essential practice rooted in the believer's conversion and visible fellowship with the body of Christ, illustrated through Paul's desire to join the Jerusalem church despite his past as a persecutor. It emphasizes that membership is not merely attendance but a formal, close bond—symbolized by the Greek word for 'gluing together'—involving accountability, spiritual oversight, and active participation in the church's mission. The sermon underscores that true membership requires a credible profession of faith, safeguards against unconverted leadership, and prioritizes sound doctrine, authentic fellowship, and the faithful observance of sacraments and prayer. It calls believers to desire membership in a church that upholds biblical truth, resists worldly compromise, and actively seeks to evangelize, warning against modernizing the church at the expense of first-century purity and spiritual depth.
The sermon centers on the biblical mandate to sanctify the Lord's Day as a sacred time of worship, rest, and spiritual renewal, rooted in the Fourth Commandment and the example of God's own rest after creation. It emphasizes that Sunday, the Christian Sabbath, is not merely a day of physical cessation but a divinely appointed opportunity to prioritize God through public and private worship, preparation, and the avoidance of worldly distractions, while recognizing exceptions for works of necessity and mercy. The sermon further calls for personal and ecclesiastical separation from the world's moral compromises, particularly in the realm of alcohol and drug use, advocating total abstinence not as legalism but as a matter of biblical wisdom, love for the weaker brother, and holy testimony in a culture marked by addiction and moral decline. Drawing from Scripture, church history, and personal testimonies, it presents abstinence as a practical expression of self-denial and a means of glorifying God, safeguarding the church's unity, and preserving the integrity of the believer's walk with Christ.
The sermon centers on the critical distinction between religious zeal and saving knowledge, drawing from Romans 10:2–4 to illustrate how the Israelites, despite their fervent devotion, lacked true understanding of God's righteousness and instead sought to establish their own through works. The preacher, reflecting on his own life, reveals a personal journey marked by religious performance, spiritual pride, and deep anxiety over salvation—built on a foundation of self-effort rather than faith in Christ's finished work. Through vivid personal anecdotes, including childhood fears of hell, addiction to television, and a false sense of righteousness, he exposes the danger of misplaced confidence and the need for a radical shift from self-reliance to simple trust in Christ alone. The turning point comes through exposure to the gospel of grace, particularly through the preaching of Ian Paisley and S.B. Cook, which led him to abandon his 'filthy rag' righteousness and embrace Christ's imputed righteousness by faith. The message culminates in a powerful call to abandon all self-justification and simply look to Jesus, who has paid the full price for salvation, offering hope and peace to all who trust in Him. json
To the Law & The Testimony - Isaiah 8:20 The sermon centers on the enduring authority of Scripture as the ultimate standard for faith and practice, drawing from Isaiah 8:20 to affirm that any teaching not aligned with the Law and the Prophets lacks divine light. It highlights the historical fidelity of Reformation figures like John Dallae, whose writings courageously refuted Roman Catholic doctrines—such as purgatory, idolatry, and the real presence—by appealing directly to the early church fathers, who themselves rejected such teachings. The preacher warns that modern spiritual confusion, especially among young people, arises from misplaced trust in tradition and human authority rather than the clear, objective truth of Scripture. With a pastoral urgency, the message calls believers to anchor their faith solely in Christ and His Word, rejecting all systems that diminish the sufficiency of grace and the finality of Christ's atonement. The tone is both convicting and comforting, urging a return to biblical fidelity as the only path to true spiritual illumination.
From the Depths of Depravity to the Heights of Redemption-The Doctrines of True Salvation - 2nd Chronicles 33:1-20
Understanding Worship - Part 2 -Psalm 29:2 The sermon emphasizes that worship is a central theme encompassing believers' lives, encompassing adoration of God, obedience, and communion with Him. It clarifies the regulative principle of worship, advocating for practices explicitly commanded in Scripture, contrasting them with worldly entertainment. True worship involves recognizing God's holiness, manifesting obedience through actions and words, and anticipating eternal glory. Ultimately, the message calls for a life consecrated to God, proclaiming His truth and reflecting His character, sustained by the hope of worshipping Him face-to-face in heaven.
Displaying our Banner in Days of Trouble - Psalm 60:4 The sermon centers on the importance of displaying the banner of Christ, drawing from Psalm 60 to emphasize the need for unwavering faith and truth in a world often hostile to the gospel. It cautions against complacency and the temptation to compromise biblical truth, particularly in the face of societal pressures and the allure of other belief systems, while highlighting the divine source and enduring nature of Christ's banner as a source of encouragement and a call to bold witness. Ultimately, the message underscores the responsibility of believers to courageously lift high the banner of salvation, pointing others to Christ as the ultimate hope and truth, even at personal cost.
Adult Bible Class - Baptism & Membership Class #1 - The Church, God's Divine Institution
A Fixed Heart in an Uncertain World - Psalm 57:7 The sermon centers on the steadfastness found in Psalm 57:7, emphasizing that a fixed heart, rooted in faith and unwavering trust in God, provides stability amidst life's uncertainties. Drawing parallels to David's experience of persecution, the message highlights the importance of anchoring one's convictions in Scripture, resisting worldly influences, and expressing faith through consistent worship and testimony. Ultimately, a fixed heart, cultivated through grace and a commitment to God's truth, brings peace, strengthens the church, and reflects a life devoted to glorifying the Savior.
A Witness to the Coming Christ - Matthew 3:11-12 The sermon explores the significance of John the Baptist's ministry as a preparation for the coming Messiah, emphasizing repentance as a necessary doorway to experiencing Christ's transformative power. It highlights the superiority of Christ, contrasting John's baptism with water to Christ's baptism with the Holy Spirit and fire, symbolizing purification and judgment. The message underscores the importance of humility, urging listeners to lift up Christ rather than themselves, and to recognize the certainty of separation at the final judgment, encouraging a faithful witness and a focus on the hope of Christ's return.
Once Faithful, Now Fallen - Isaiah 1:21 The sermon explores the tragic decline of a once-faithful city, drawing parallels to the spiritual condition of believers and churches. It emphasizes the danger of complacency and the subtle ways unfaithfulness can creep in, leading to idolatry, moral corruption, and a departure from God's truth. However, the message ultimately offers hope and a call to repentance, reminding listeners that restoration is possible through confession and a renewed commitment to steadfastness in faith, emphasizing the importance of guarding against spiritual compromise and actively pursuing a life of obedience to God's Word.
Dealing with Spiritual Sloth - Psalm 119:37 The sermon emphasizes the dangers of spiritual sloth and the vital need for divine intervention to cultivate a vibrant faith. Drawing from Psalm 119, the message underscores the importance of turning away from vanity and actively seeking God's quickening through His Word, prayer, and obedience. It cautions against complacency and encourages believers to guard their hearts, embrace the means of grace, and strive for a life marked by zeal, fruitfulness, and a deep love for Christ, ultimately mirroring His example of selfless devotion and sacrifice.
The Tragedy of a Desecrated Church - Jeremiah 51:51The sermon explores the tragedy of spiritual decline, drawing parallels between the biblical account of Judah's downfall and the potential for similar failings within the church today. It examines themes of spiritual brokenness, the sting of reproach, the shame of desecration, and the vulnerability to spiritual invasion, emphasizing the importance of humility, obedience to Scripture, and a reverent approach to worship to avoid compromising God's sanctuary. Ultimately, the message calls for believers to confront their own sin, seek cleansing through Christ, and actively guard against the intrusion of worldly influences, ensuring the church remains a place of genuine holiness and devotion.
True Faith Leads to Evangelism - Part 2 - John 1:37-42The sermon emphasizes the vital role of evangelism within the church, highlighting that true faith in Christ naturally leads to a desire to share the Gospel with others. Drawing from the example of Andrew, it underscores the importance of starting with those closest to us – family and friends – and prioritizing the proclamation of Christ as the ultimate message of hope and redemption. The speaker encourages listeners to cultivate a passion for souls, recognizing that evangelism is not merely a duty but a manifestation of love for both Christ and those who are lost, and that persistent, personal testimony rooted in truth is the most effective means of sharing the transformative power of the Gospel.
When Rainbows Preach! Genesis 9:13The sermon explores the biblical significance of the rainbow, contrasting its original meaning as a covenantal sign of God's mercy and faithfulness after the flood with its contemporary appropriation as a symbol of human pride and social agendas. It emphasizes that the rainbow preaches God's judgment upon sin, the restraint of His wrath, and the enduring nature of His covenant with humanity, ultimately pointing to the Lord Jesus Christ as the ultimate ark of salvation and urging listeners to anchor their faith in His promises rather than worldly symbols.
The recording of the remarks and closing message at our 40th Anniversary Dinner on Tuesday 8th October 2024.Presiding - Rev. Andrew Fitton (Pastor)Remarks - Rev. Ian Goligher (Founding Pastor), Mr. Andy Roersma (Elder), Mr Alan Samuel (Elder) & Mr. Charlie Escobar (Deacon)Greetings from Presbytery & closing message - Dr. Larry Saunders (Moderator of Presbytery)
The Bible is our firm foundation and solid hope for faith. Until we settled the truth that the Bible is the word of God we won't settle very much.
Christians value time. They are saved for a purpose and each day is given to glorify the Lord.
What is the church- It is not about human relations only. It is about a blood bought people honouring their God and Saviour through the means that God has ordained to enjoy living fellowship with Him through the ministry of he Spirit all based on the truth contained in the Bible.
-Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast, and which entereth into that within the veil---Hebrews 6-19
-Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom- that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus---Colossians 1-28
And, Behold, the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom- and the earth did quake, and the rocks rent-- -Matthew 27-51
-Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which by interpretation is called Dorcas- this woman was full of good works and almsdeeds which she did.- Acts 9-36