New Life Community Church: Precepts Podcast: Recent Episodes
New Life Community Church
"Precepts" is a podcast ministry of New Life Community Church whose vision is to "proclaim Christ and equip saints in the bond of fellowship." During each podcast, Pastor Jerry Seawright, NLCC clergy, and guest speakers address biblical and doctrinal topics impacting Christians' daily living.
In the church, a lack of fellowship indicates a lack of love. The Apostle John addresses three principles which believers should live by: commandment, conduct, and contribution.
Several Old Testament examples involving King Saul’s disobedience to God set the stage for John’s the fallacies of subjective, emotional, and intellectual truth about God compared to an objective and relationship-based truth about God. From this,...
Benjamin Franklin once said that "An example is a sermon." Pastor explains the difference between in spite of vs. because of as it relates to living a Godly example rather than being preoccupied with other things.
While believers recognize the power and influence of the world and our earthly desires, our thoughts and behavior should be controlled by the Holy Spirit during our daily Christian living.
Why should we fellowship with others at church? Is it based on habit, interest in the pastor, or because we have nothing else better to do? Today’s message addresses the reasons and benefits of fellowship.
What is more important? The death of Jesus or his resurrection? Both are important because Jesus conquered three great evils: sin, suffering, and death. He gave us the greatest gift: born from the greatest sacrifice.
Matthew’s account of what we refer to as Palm Sunday provides a clear contrast to the parade on the West side of Jerusalem. How does the parade on the East Side, tell us about Christ’s humility and mercy?
In Psalms 103:1-5, David, as a happy old man, tells us the parts, purposes, and reasons for praising and worshiping God which we need to encourage, celebrate, and exercise.
We continue with Part 2 of the sermon in which John asks a question which the second self-test to determine if you are a Christian: “How do you view your sin?” Stated differently, “What do you do with your guilt?”
The game of "Peek-A-Boo" aptly depicts how we erroneously think our actions are hidden from God. This section of 1 John, we learn how and why God is Light and how that should encourage and strengthen believers' relationship with Him.
John wrote 1 John so that the people that believed in Christ could be sure or that they could know of their salvation. He gave a list of tests that believers could compare against their own life in order to be sure of their salvation. John stressed...
Taking a stand about and for something has challenges, especially regarding topics involving the Bible and Christian living. In today’s sermon, we learn the spiritual implications of what the Apostle Paul says about a call to be strong, stand...
In 1863, President Abrahman Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation technically freed slaves in America but the realities of the proclamation took years to impliment because many chose not to accept it. In a similar way, Paul addresses Christ’s...
In a world involving pain, hurt, and sorrow, people will try any and everything to achieve peace of mind except look to Christ. We must continually remember that we can only find true gift, gain, and guarantee of rest in Christ.
James challenges believers to be mature doers who live the principles of the Bible, not hearers who are satisfied with just knowing the Word. There are three principles we consider: living one of two labels, listening to truth but not acting on it,...
Although this passage is often read during funerals, it’s relative to our current experiences as believers. This sermon addresses three aspects: comfort in the provider not the problem, comfort in the prepared place for a prepared people, comfort...
The peace of God passes our understanding and provides us strength to endure trials and circumstances.
Fear is a real and understandable emotion but it should not overwhelm us to the point that we lose sight that God is able to strengthen and support us in our time of need.
When thinking about the world’s crisis regarding COVVID and other situations, we must remember God’s viewpoint expressed through the Bible rather than other people’s views.
We encounter circumstances where we pray for God’s immediate answer. The problem is not God but in our impatience and rebellion.
This Christmas message reminds us about the powerful relationship between fear and faith.
Part of Israel's history includes people who may have had one or two of the offices of prophet, priest, or king. The prophecy about Jesus' birth, however, revealed His unique, three-fold role of Prophet, Priest and King. His earthly birth ushered...
Several scriptures describing the announcement about Jesus' divine birth and Mary's (the sister of Martha) washing His feet speak to the Holy Spirit's introduction to humanity and humanity's introduction to the Holy Spirit.
Viewing Numbers 20:1-13 through the lens of an introduction, conflict, and conclusion, helps us understand about living life for the Lord, learning from other's experiences, and being held accountable for hearing God's truth.
Today’s sermon reminds us that we are living in an Age of Rebellion but we must remain true to what God says is true. Ultimately, all sin isn't against us, it's against God.
You can test God and complain as much as you wish but God will eventually let you make your own decisions. However, God will not remove the consequences of those actions.
God’s frustration with Israel’s lack of faith and obedience to occupy the Promised Land led to Him offering to wipe them out and start over with Moses. Moses’ response is a pattern for believers who should pray and seek after a genuine...
Fear is purely psychological. Don’t let fear blind you to the blessings and power that God has promised you.
Sometimes, God has to show you what’s true. In today’s lesson, we learn about practical applications involving this topic based on three synonyms: sight, cite, and site.
Miriam and Aaron’s complaining about Moses’ leadership and God’s sovereignty teaches us important lessons about why we should focus on what God wants our ministry to involve rather than what we want. That way, we can avoid jealousy. Today’s...
Associate Pastor Julian Watkins continues with Part 3 of his sermon. Today’s focus is about how we should acknowledge and not compromise about the purposes and benefits of relying upon God's truth rather than our own truth.
When the Israelites complained about God providing manna before entering the Promised Land rather than better food when enslaved in Egypt, Moses provided an intercessory prayer on their behalf. In the process, Moses also complained but God remained...
n Pastor Seawright’s message mostly directed toward young people, he provides several principles about why service to God should matter to believers.
One of the rooms in the Holy Tabernacle is called "The Most Holy Place." Understanding the purpose and characteristics of this room encourages our faith and assurance that God is Holy and Jesus Christ is our Redeemer.
Do you remember how you thought of and treated a new pair of shoes? This contrasts with how you treat these same shoes when they’re old. If Christians aren’t careful, we’ll begin to treat God as common or ordinary. He isn’t. He’s Holy,...
We often think or act as if we are self-sufficient. Aaron and his sons' experiences recorded in Leviticus 8:1-13 prove that this idea is absolutely untrue. God is holy because He calls, cleans, clothes, and consecrates us.
Peter and John’s experiences in Acts 4 reveal how God has a way of providing us opportunities to proclaim His name and His Word to unbelievers.
People love to hear stories because they often help us laugh and inspire us. The story of Esther is no different especially because God equips her with divine courage to intercede on behalf of Jewish people in Persia.
Jesus' responses to John the Baptist during his imprisonment reveals that Jesus is in fact, the Son God.
Bravely through God's power is an essential ingredient for Christian living. Let’s look more into how Gideon’s experience provides an object lesson for us about sacrifice, service, and stance.
In Psalms 91:1-6, we see the advantages of God’s power, protection, and comfort which should encourage us while dealing with the challenges of daily Christian living.
How can an analogy of a mother going through labor pains compare to how believers have a Biblical hope and confidence about trials God allows them to experience?
Christians have a hope in Christ that does not disappoint. In a very real way, God is like a Master Chef who prepares our hearts and minds for challenges and celebrations to come.
Today’s focus is about how we should follow a narrow path to God's truth rather than the broad or convenient way that contradicts God's truth.
Pastor Seawright challenges Christians to consider their conduct. In a great paradox, believers are dead to sin but are alive in Christ.
Against the backdrop of a gruesome scene involving her sons, Rizpah’s intercessory response reminds us of the power and prayer stemming from a mother’s love. We should never forget that it's never too late for God to answer our prayers.
What does it mean to have new life through Christ? Pastor Seawright shares how Christians should consider the question, consider our conversion, and consider our conduct.
You can’t take anything away from the word of God and you can’t add anything else. The word of God is the truth.
Associate Pastor Larry Lester reminds us of how and why serving Christ through our daily living inevitably pleases God.
On this Easter Sunday,, Pastor Seawright discusses how God exists and reveals Himself to humanity through nature, our conscience, and divine revelation. God’s ultimate revelation is through the holy life, sacrificial death, and miraculous...
This sermonette addresses he first two of Jesus’ seven last sayings while on the cross. Today, we learn the spiritual implications of Jesus asking God to forgive those responsible for His crucifixion and telling one of the thieves on the cross...
For his Good Friday sermonette, Associate Pastor Julian Watkins addresses what’s referred to as the third and fourth of Jesus’ seven last sayings while on the cross.
Associate Pastor Larry Lester shares the how the implications of Jesus’ final words on the cross bring comfort to all believers.
In defending the existence of God, Emmanuel Kant said He is perfectly righteousness, all-knowing, and all powerful. Romans 1:18-32 explains the attributes and reflects God's justice.
The good news for everyone is that we are all not good but through the power of God, we can be.
Paul reminds us in Romans that the Gospel is good news and like him, we, as evangelists, should share the Gospel with others. He also challenges us with what some refer to as Paul’s "I am" statements.
Jesus' miracle of raising Lazarus from the dead is one additional example of His divine glory.
Lazarus’ death, burial, and resurrection did not surprise Jesus who used the occasion to remind people that He has power over life and death.
How does the three-part composition of rays that form light serve as an object lesson for the composition, purpose, and effects of the trinity?
We all experienced moments of being ashamed about the words or behavior of ourselves, family, friends or even coworkers. There is one thing, however, that believers should never be ashamed about and that’s the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Is salvation hereditary? Can we be saved simply because our relatives are saved? The short and long answer is a resounding “No.” God’s sovereign plan of salvation is fair because we are held accountable for our actions and decisions. Put...
Paul addresses a conflict in the Corinthian church among Christians with various spiritual maturity.
We have an inner thought that we can handle things ourselves both mentally and physically. But sometimes we find ourselves in impossible situations where we are powerless even if we are in God's will. We have to realize that we can't, but he can!...
In recent years, the news media has changed from informing to affirming news. Thank goodness, this does not apply to the Bible which consistently informs of us of who Jesus is. In John 2:1-11, we read John's first recorded miracle of Jesus
Acts the 12th chapter takes place about 10 years after the start of the New Testament Church. In Acts 12:1-5. we see Luke’s account of Peter’s imprisonment. Despite this seemingly devastating event, we’re reminded that God was working behind...
In today’s sermon, Associate Pastor Julian Watkins reminds us of three truths: if you continue to willfully sin you will face judgement, if you endure a great conflict of suffering Christ will aid you, and if you confidently endure in faithful...
One of life’s most essential questions is “What are you going to do with Jesus?” Your answer has eternal implications and consequences regarding the two types of calling God uses.
Christmas has been hijacked! The world likes to say that everyone has their own truth, but John 1:1-5 makes it clear who Jesus is and why he came down to his own creation just to save you and me. Will you receive this gift?
We will all face judgement at the appointed time. In the meantime, God doesn't want us to be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of our minds. God will evaluate the works we have done. Will God say well done to you?
Someone once gave this analogy: “If the world is an ocean and the church is a boat, then it’s no problem for the boat to be in the ocean, but it’s a problem if the ocean gets in the boat.” This all points to the effectiveness of our witness...
Accepting Christ is just the beginning. A personal encounter with God as we read His word, worship, fast, and pray should be our greatest desire because the more we are like Christ, the more glory we reflect.
Throughout our lives, we all have a need to be close to someone whether it’s a friend, family member, or coworker. In his sermon called "Drawing Near,” Associate Pastor Julian Watkins points us to Hebrews 10:19-25 as he discusses drawing near...
During today’s sermon, Pastor Seawright we learn how Moses pleads with God to intercede on behalf of the children of Israel in their time of need. We all need God’s protection and direction.
In Exodus 24:12-18, God makes it clear to Moses and to us that God wants people to learn about His divine attributes. This requires our diligence, patience, and devotion to hearing His Words.
Adam and Eve’s sin in the Garden of Eden led to both shame and blame. We would do well to learn how God wants us to overcome these same errors through the promise of Christ, God's only begotten Son.
Exodus 20:1-7 records God’s instructions for the nation of Israel that reflect 10 general rules that reflect God’s complete laws. God’s laws remind us that we, like Israel, need Jesus Christ to rescue us from ourselves and our sinful nature.
Imagine being sentenced to death and at the last minute receiving a presidential pardon? How would you feel about not experiencing this punishment? In the same way, the penalty for all unbelievers’ sin is both physical and spiritual death. Thank...
The sibling rivalry initiated by Essau against his brother, Jacob, led to on-going battles between the Amalakites and Israelites. Moses and Joshua’s actions recorded in Exodus 17:8-6 reveal that seeking God’s help involves our perseverance,...
One of the worst case scenarios for drivers is to fall asleep at the wheel. The symptoms of falling asleep may seem mild and can eventually lead to swerving between lanes. In the same way, the Apostle Paul challenges us to avoid falling asleep...
What happens when our songs, views, and expectations about God begin to change? In Exodus 16:2-16, we learn spiritual lessons God wants us to learn during our trials including: keeping our eyes on the objective rather than the obstacle.
How should believers feel when they experience sin that impacts our relationship with God? In Psalm 51:1-11, David offers a model prayer of contrition.
The 10 year period between Samuel anointing David as king and the time he became king provides the perfect opportunity for David and us to learn the benefits of how God prepares people, position, and the place while we wait on His direction.
What’s the best way we should respond to the tragedy and death of our enemies? In 2 Samuel 1:11-12 and 17-27, David’s reaction to the death of King Saul shows that we should conduct ourselves with genuine grief, discourage gloating, and...
In Ephesians 1:1-14, Paul describes how Christians should live based on Christ redeeming us.
Have you ever ventured off the road in your walk with God? 1 Peter 2:1-10 provides us with a road map to follow to address these situations involving conscience, marriage family, government, and church.
Trials and struggles reveal who we really are and what’s inside us. These are the Gideon moments that should reveal our praise, our bodies, and power of the Holy Spirit as we seek victory in our lives.
God frequently works through people who otherwise might be overlooked. If God could use a shepherd boy like David or a persecutor like Paul, He can use us!
Waiting on the Lord is perhaps the most difficult challenge we encounter, simply because we often assume that we know what is best.
All of us have a purpose. A closer look at King Saul reveals God's promises to believers based on consecration, confirmation, and connection.
The account of Paul and Silas’ imprisonment recorded in Acts 16 tells us a lot about the power of praise
Leadership is essential for any group, be it a nation, a family, or a church. There’s a big difference, however, between human leadership and God’s leadership. He’s not a trinket, trophy, or amusement attraction: He’s the God Almighty who...
Judges 16:21-31 describes how Samson asks God for vengeance and near the end of his life. This week, Pastor describes the get back, pay back, and come back in his sermon entitled “Real Steel.”
The description of Samson's encounters with the Philistines recorded in Judges 15:9-20 provides a perfect lesson about how we should understand God's relationship with us.
We live in a crazy world filled with people who have no hope. This isn't so for believers who have hope through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Pastor Seawright reminds of us the words of 1 Peter 1:1-14 which admonishes us to tighten up the...
There is a recurring cycle in Judges. It begins with the people’s rebellion, followed by retribution, repentance, restoration, and finally, rest.
At its surface level, Psalm 45 celebrates, in idealized terms, the wedding of a future Davidic king. At a deeper level, it points to the future Son of David, the Messiah/King Jesus.
Although we were guilty sinners with no one among us adequate to represent us before the Almighty, the Lord Himself became our intercessor. So it was for the corrupt people of Isaiah’s day, to whom the Lord graciously promised His own...
This week's lesson reveals the amazing promise of God is that all the Jews will turn to faith in Jesus, their Messiah.
The ideal of servant-leadership has come to us from the Bible which presents a perspective on leadership and power that runs counter to worldly norms. It has influenced our culture even if it has never been consistently followed or acknowledged.
Jesus is the Stone that was rejected and in the process, became the Cornerstone of the church and the Cornerstone in the life of believers.
This week’s lesson is taken from Psalm 2:1-12 and addresesses the futility of rebellion against God and the Lord’s Anointed.
After Christ’s death and resurrection, He walks appropriately 7 miles with two disciples on the road to Emmaus. His recollection, instruction, and revealing of Himself serve as a model for how believers should disciple other believers and witness...
Zechariah’s prophecy describes Jesus as King in a way that didn’t match Jews’ expectations. Nevertheless, He’s the Messiah, King of Kings who came to die for sins of humanity.
This week's lesson provides us with a picture of Jesus as the Suffering Servant: the perfect intersection between love and justice.
In this lesson, we learn about the implications of Christ as Priest, Prophet, and King.
Pastor Seawright informs parents and youth about the consequences of not understanding three institutions that God created: family, church, and government.
What are your thoughts about bread? When you go to a restaurant do you fill up on water and bread or do you save room for the main entree? Jesus uses the metaphor of bread to talk about Himself and why people should desire to have a personal...
When you hear the phrase “Man overboard!” it’s usually not good news because someone has fallen off a boat. But what if the person on the sea is actually saving you? Pastor Seawright answers this question by turning our attention to danger,...
What type of hope do you have? Is it based on your conditions and circumstances or based on the certainty of the Gospel?
God’s grace surpasses our finite understanding. Nevertheless, we don’t have to guess about what it is or God’s purposes for demonstrating it.