900 Acklen Ave: Recent Episodes
Acklen Avenue
900 Acklen Ave is the podcast for the Acklen Avenue Church of Christ. We'll mostly post recordings of sermons and possibly classes. We'll see. Thanks for joining us!
Due to inclement weather, we cancelled our in person service. In this recording, JP walks through the four weekly readings, specifically preaching on John 2:1-11 (2:54-24:13), before taking us through communion and announcements. Other readings include Isaiah 62:1-5, Psalm 36:5-10, and 1 Corinthians 12:1-11.
Order of Worship:
Spencer Porter: Welcome, Acts 4:5-12, and opening prayer
JP Conway: Sermon on John 10:11-18
Nigel Fontenot: Table Talk
Lake Porter: 1 John 3:16-24 and closing prayer
Brad Knapp: announcements
Order of Worship:
JP Conway: Welcome, Acts 3:12-19, and opening prayer
Jonathan Gibson: Psalm 4 and prayer
JP Conway: Sermon on Luke 24:36-48
Chris Church: Table Talk
DJ Church: 1 John 3:1-7 and closing prayer
Paul Spivey: announcements
Order of Worship:
Matt Perkins: Welcome, Acts 4:32-35, and opening prayer
Paul Spivey: Psalm 133 and prayer
JP Conway: Sermon on John 20:19-31
Justin Myrick: Table Talk
Bryan Thornton: 1 John 1:1-2:2 and closing prayer
Spencer Porter: announcements
In this final Easter Sunday episode, Brad, William, and Abigail read and discuss the resurrection of Jesus in John 20:1-18. A tragic week ends with great joy and celebration.
Order of Worship:
Bryan Thornton: Welcome, Isaiah 25:6-9, and opening prayer
Justin Myrick: Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 and prayer
JP Conway: Sermon on Mark 16:1-8
Ryan Sullenberger: Table Talk
Jonah Perkins: 1 Corinthians 15:1-11 and closing prayer
Chris Church: announcements
In this Saturday episode, Matt Perkins asks us to reflect on a very significant day of rest, the Sabbath between the cross and the empty tomb. He offers, “Some days the only thing you can do is the things that have to be done and so you do them. You are exhausted and the day is nearly done and you need to get to rest.” That rest is coming. As he closes, “God will prevail.”
In this Good Friday episode, Trisha, Prentice, Griffin, Theo, and Charleston read, reflect, and pray through John 18:1-19:42. They invite us into a posture of gratitude for the grace and mercy of Jesus.
In this Maundy Thursday episode, Paul Prill invites us to consider Jesus' example of washing feet in John 13. He points out that we can "do service" without "becoming a servant." What would it look like to adopt the identity of a servant, as Jesus does for us?
In this Wednesday episode, Clark Christian explores John 13:18-20 and asks a haunting question, “Where do you go after betrayal?”
In this Tuesday episode, Jennifer Sternberg engages Jesus’ words in John 12:20-36 as she reflects on death and life, light and darkness.
In this second episode of the Holy Week podcast series, the Conways read and discuss the story of Mary anointing Jesus' feet. They reflect on the reason for Mary's joy (her brother Lazarus got raised in previous chapter) and the uniqueness of this coronation.
In this first episode of the Holy Week podcast series, the Simon family reads the Triumphal Entry prophecy and reality. As the crowds did on that day, they lead us in praise of the great King.
Order of Worship:
Paul Prill: Welcome, Mark 11:1-11, and opening prayer
Matt Bauer: Psalm 31:9-16 and prayer
JP Conway: Sermon on Mark 14:32-72 (begins at 5:03)
Spencer Porter: Table Talk (begins at 20:58)
Charlie Perkins: Philippians 2:5-11 and closing prayer
Brad Knapp: announcements
Order of Worship:
Chris Church: Welcome, Jeremiah 31:31-34, and opening prayer
Neal Allison: Psalm 51:1-12 and prayer
JP Conway: Sermon on John 12:20-33
JP Conway: Table Talk
Bob Hoskins: Hebrews 5:5-10 and closing prayer
Paul Spivey: announcements
Order of Worship:
Ryan Sullenberger: Welcome, Numbers 21:4-9, and opening prayer
Brian Batey: Psalm 107:1-3, 17-22 and prayer
JP Conway: Sermon on John 3:14-21 (begins at 4:51)
Justin Myrick: Table Talk (begins at 23:02)
Andrew Sternberg: Ephesians 2:1-10 and closing prayer
JP Conway: announcements
Order of Worship:
Justin Myrick: Welcome, Exodus 20:1-17, and opening prayer
Bodhi Dark: Psalm 19 and prayer
JP Conway: Sermon on John 2:13-22 (begins 8:03)
Ryan Sullenberger: Table Talk (begins 32:54)
Danny Ray Martin: 1 Corinthians 1:18-25 and closing prayer
Chris Church: announcements
Order of Worship:
Matt Perkins: Welcome, Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16, and Prayer
J.P. Conway: Psalm 22:23-31 and Prayer
J.P. Conway: Sermon on Mark 8:31-38
Chris Church: Table Talk
Jonah Perkins: Romans 4:13-25 and Prayer
Brad Knapp: Announcements
Order of Worship:
Bryan Thornton: Welcome, Genesis 9:8-17, and Prayer
Jack Sternberg: Psalm 25:1-10 and Prayer
J.P. Conway: Sermon on Mark 1:9-15 (begins at 4:20)
Tim Spivey: Table Talk (begins at 26:13)
Eric Simon: 1 Peter 3:18-22 and Prayer
Paul Spivey: Announcements
On this episode, Matt Perkins continues the conversation on deacons-male and female. He explores 1 Timothy 3 as well as 1 Peter 2. He also engages church history as a way to discuss how our spiritual ancestors interpreted these passages. If you have a question, shoot JP an email. We'll be discussing this episode on our Wednesday February 24 Zoom.
On this episode, Bryan Thornton explores Paul's words about deacons in 1 Timothy 3. What does this scripture contribute to the conversation regarding female deacons? How have Churches of Christ historically understood deacons? If you have any questions or comments, shoot JP an email. We'll discuss this episode on our Wednesday February 17 Zoom.
Order of Worship:
Clark Christian: Welcome, 2 Kings 2:1-12, and Prayer
J.P. Conway: Psalm 50:1-6 and Prayer
J.P. Conway: Sermon on Mark 9:2-9 (begins at 7:30)
Paul Prill: Table Talk (begins at 28:58)
DJ Church: 2 Corinthians 4:3-6 and Prayer
J.P. Conway: Announcements
Order of Worship:
Davie Wagner: Welcome, Isaiah 40:21-31, and Prayer
Isaiah Wagner: Psalm 147:1-11 and Prayer
J.P. Conway: Sermon on Mark 1:39-39
Nigel Fontenot: Table Talk
Clay Jones: 1 Corinthians 9:16-23 and Prayer
Chris Church: Announcements
On this episode, Paul Spivey explores the creation references in 1 Timothy 2:13-15. How do these references shed light on a situation going on in Ephesus? Do these references ground the commands of verses 11-12 as timeless or particular for that time? If you have any questions or comments, shoot JP an email. We'll discuss this episode on our Wednesday February 10 Zoom.
Order of Worship:
Paul Spivey: Welcome, Deuteronomy 18:15-20, and Prayer
J.P. Conway: Psalm 111 and Prayer
J.P. Conway: Sermon on Mark 1:21-28 (begins 4:46)
Ryan Sullenberger: Table Talk (begins 27:32)
Jack Sternberg: 1 Corinthians 8:1-13 and Prayer
Chris Church: Announcements
J.P. looks at reading biblical letters as reading someone else's mail. He explores the difference between context based commands and timeless principles. Also, he touches on cultural realities and expectations for women and men in the first century Greco-Roman world. We'll discuss this together on our February 3 Zoom.
Order of Worship:
John Delony: Welcome, Jonah 3:1-10, and Prayer
Prentice Ashford: Psalm 62:5-12 and Prayer
J.P. Conway: Sermon on Mark 1:14-20 (begins 3:47)
Bryan Thornton: Table Talk (begins 18:40)
Tim Spivey: 1 Corinthians 7:29-31 and Prayer
Brad Knapp: Announcements
In this episode of Checking in with the Family, I chatted with Acklen’s favorite historian, Neal Allison. We talked history, the philosopher Aristotle, the 1970s movie Poseidon Adventure, the hymn O Sacred Head, and the nursery rhyme Ring around the Rosie. Here you go.
Order of Worship:
Justin Myrick: Welcome, 1 Samuel 3:1-10, and Prayer
Jonah Perkins: Psalm 139 and Prayer
J.P. Conway: Sermon on John 1:43-51 (begins 6:43)
Randy Spivey: Table Talk (begins 25:08)
Nigel Fontenot: 1 Corinthians 6:12-20 and Prayer
Paul Spivey: Announcements
Matt Perkins: Welcome, Genesis 1:1-5, and Prayer
Neal Allison: Psalm 29 and Prayer
J.P. Conway: Sermon on Mark 1:4-11
Eric Simon: Table Talk
Bob Hoskins: Acts 19:1-7 and Prayer
Spencer Porter: Announcements
Order of Worship:
Justin Myrick: Welcome, Jeremiah 31:7-14, and Prayer
Charlie Perkins: Psalm 147:12-20 and Prayer
J.P. Conway: Sermon on John 1:1-18 (begins at 5:46)
Danny Ray Martin: Table Talk (begins at 22:54)
Jeremy Martin: Ephesians 1:3-14 and Prayer
Chris Church: Announcements
In this episode of Checking in with the Family, I talk with Sabrina Sullenberger and Paul Spivey about ministry to the unhoused during this COVID winter. Sabrina serves on the board of Open Table Nashville, and Paul serves as the finance director for Room in the Inn. Both of these groups have wish lists on Amazon if you'd like to donate. This interview was recorded on Sunday December 13.
Ryan Sullenberger: Welcome, Isaiah 61:10-62:3, and Prayer
Jonathan Gibson: Psalm 148 and Prayer
JP Conway: Sermon on Luke 2:22-40 (begins 6:43)
Spencer Porter: Table Talk (begins 28:03)
Lake Porter: Galatians 4:4-7 and Prayer
Brad Knapp: Announcements
Our Redeemer is born!
You can find the Pentatonix cover of "Little Drummer Boy" at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qJ_MGWio-vc
Charlie Perkins: Welcome, 2 Samuel 7:1-11, 16, and Prayer
Bob Hoskins: Luke 1:46-55 and Prayer
JP Conway: Sermon on Luke 1:26-38 (begins at 6:01)
Chris Church: Table Talk (begins at 25:16)
DJ Church: Romans 16:25-27 and Prayer
Paul Spivey: Announcements
John the Baptist is predicted to turn hearts to God. The Redeemer is coming. But first, we must wait . . .
The insignificant town of Bethlehem became the birthplace of the King of Kings. God loves taking something small and making it great.
Jesus was with the three friends in the fiery furnace. He is with us today, no matter what fires we may go though.
Job suffered horribly, but through it all, he knew that he had a Redeemer he would someday meet face to face. We can have the same hope.
Mordecai knew that deliverance for his people was sure for his people. Esther helped deliver them for a time. Jesus delivers us for eternity.
God is mighty and powerful. Someday all will bow down to the Son of God, just like the worshippers of Baal.
Once a shepherd, but now a King, David is the one God promises will have a descendent on the throne forever. Jesus is that shep- herd-king.
Paul Prill: Welcome, Isaiah 61:1-11, and Prayer
Clay Jones: Luke 1:46-55 and Prayer
JP Conway: Sermon on John 1:6-8, 19-28 (begins at 5:50)
Ryan Sullenberger: Table Talk (begins at 22:19)
Jack Sternberg: 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24 and Prayer
Spencer Porter: Announcements (begins at 24:52)
Through Rahab, God showed that He can use anyone in His re- demption story. No one is beyond the reach of His saving arms.
Boaz was the kinsman redeemer of two destitute and lost women. God is still in the business of redeeming the lost.
The commandments were given to us directly from God to show us just how much we need a Savior.
The blood of the lamb saved the Israelites from the 10th plague. The blood of the Lamb of God saves us still.
Joseph’s brothers sought to harm him – but God used it for good. The cross is the ultimate example of God creating good out of the evil plans of man.
The ladder Jacob saw in his dream connected earth and heaven. Thousands of years later, a wooden cross did the same.
Through Abraham’s obedience, God’s plan of redemption begins to take shape.
Steena mentions the song "Where is the Lamb" by Wendy Francisco. You can find it at this link: https://cutt.ly/the_lamb
Just like God provided a substitute for Isaac, He has provide a substitute for us – the very Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.
Clark Christian: Welcome, Isaiah 40:1-11, and Prayer
Jonah Perkins: Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13, Prayer
JP Conway: Sermon on Mark 1:1-8 (begins at 5:35)
Ryan Sullenberger: Table Talk (begins at 24:30)
Matt Perkins: 2 Peter 3:8-15 and Prayer
Chris Church: announcements
God keeps His promises no matter how far-fetched they may seem. The God who gave a son to a 90 year old woman is the same God who gave His Son for us.
The waters that covered the earth cleansed it from its sin, but it was only temporary. Jesus’ blood washed away our sins – once and for all.
Jesus was part of the godhead from the beginning. It was always God’s plan to send His Son.
"Oh Come, Oh Come Immanuel" recorded by Beth, Jackie, J.P., and Tim.
Jesus is the Branch that grows from lifeless stump of a world, sent by God to redeem what has been lost.
"Oh Come, Oh Come Immanuel" recorded by Beth, Jackie, J.P., and Tim.
Paul Spivey: Welcome, Isaiah 64:1-9, and Prayer
Neal Allison: Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19, Prayer
JP Conway: Sermon on Mark 13:24-37
Eric Simon: Table Talk
Matt Perkins: 1 Corinthians 1:3-9 and Prayer
Brad Knapp: Announcements
Justin Myrick: Welcome, Ezekiel 34:11-24, and Prayer
Brian Batey: Psalm 100 Prayer
JP Conway: Sermon on Matthew 25:31-46
John Delony: Table Talk (begins at 25:27)
Spencer Porter: Ephesians 1:15-23 and Prayer
Chris Church: announcements
In this episode, we check in with Paul Prill, who served Acklen for 30 years as the preacher and many years as well as an elder. He discusses what it’s like to retire during a pandemic, his growing interest in gardening, and how much he misses taking communion in person with all of you.
Order of Worship:
Bryan Thornton: Welcome, Judges 4:1-7, and Prayer
Paul Prill: Psalm 123 Prayer
J.P. Conway: Sermon on Matthew 25:14-30 (begins at 6:22)
Matt Bauer: Table Talk (begins at 25:27)
Nigel Fontenot: 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11 and Prayer
Spencer Porter: announcements (begins at 30:58)
In this episode, our minister, J.P. Conway, explores the implications of head coverings and "head" talk in 1 Corinthians 11. Is there a sex hierarchy at creation and in the church? Is there a hierarchy between God the Father and Christ the Son? We'll be discussing this episode on our Wednesday November 18 Zoom. If you have questions or feedback, let us know.
Danny Ray Martin: Welcome, Joshua 24:1-3a, 14-25, and Prayer
Andrew Sternberg: Psalm 78:1-7 and Prayer
Ryan Sullenberger: Sermon on Matthew 25:1-13
Tim Spivey: Table Talk
Matt Perkins: 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 and Prayer
Paul Spivey: announcements
In this episode, one of our elders, Bryan Thornton explores the Corinthian church in an attempt to picture who is doing what and when. He asks what you may have asked before, "If women are praying and prophesying in chapter 11, why are they being silenced in chapter 14?" We'll be discussing this episode on our Wednesday November 11 Zoom. If you have questions or feedback, let us know.
Dave Wagner: Welcome, Joshua 3:7-17, and Prayer
Bob Hoskins: Psalm 107:1-7, 33-37 and Prayer
JP Conway: Sermon on Matthew 23:1-12 (begins at 6:31)
Bodhi Dark: Table Talk (begins at 23:54)
Clay Jones: 1 Thessalonians 2:9-13 and Prayer
Brad Knapp: announcements
The elders have asked us to join them in a day of prayer and fasting on Monday November 2, the day before the election. May we have the spiritual strength required to offer a mature, Christ-like witness in these days.
In this episode, one of our elders, Matt Perkins, takes us through the second part of “Women in the New Testament.” We’ll look at Euodia, Syntyche, Chloe, Philip’s four daughters, Lydia, and Priscilla. We’ll be discussing this episode on our Wednesday November 4 Zoom. If you have any comments, questions, or feedback, let us know. Thanks for being a part of this.
JP Conway: Welcome, Deuteronomy 34:1-12, and Prayer
Spencer Porter: Psalm 90:1-6, 13-17 and Prayer
JP Conway: Sermon on Matthew 22:34-46 (begins at 6:25)
Ryan Sullenberger: Table Talk (begins at 26:01)
Jack Sternberg: 1 Thessalonians 2:1-8 and Prayer
Chris Church: announcements
In this episode, one of our elders, Paul Spivey begins a two-week theme on “Women in the New Testament” by specifically looking at Phoebe and Junia. This episode will be discussed on our Wednesday October 28 Zoom. If you have any questions or feedback, reach out. Thank you for your prayer and support.
In today’s episode, guest host Elsie Spivey poses four quarantine questions to a few Acklen friends. Listen in as they discuss virtual learning, new hobbies, what they miss most about normal life, and share some book recommendations. Here you go.
Matt Perkins: Welcome, Exodus 33:12-23, and Prayer
Justin Myrick: Psalm 99 and Prayer
JP Conway: Sermon on Matthew 22:15-22 (begins at 9:08)
Prentice Ashford: Table Talk (begins at 25:20)
Jonah Perkins: 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10 and Prayer
Spencer Porter: Announcements
In this episode of Male and Female in Genesis through Revelation, one of our elders, Bryan Thornton, explores the Day of Pentecost. We’ll be discussing this episode during our Wednesday night Zoom on October 21. If you have any comments or questions you’d like to see discussed, please reach out. Thanks for listening and participating in this discernment.
In this episode, we sit down with Dot Eubanks, an Acklen member for 61 years. She shares how she’s been spending Sundays, what it’s like to sail across the Atlantic, why she did the church bulletin for so many years, and some encouraging words (3 words to be exact and I bet you can guess). This was my first time to use two microphones outside with masks on, and the audio quality is subpar. It’s totally my fault, and I’m grateful to Matt Perkins for improving it as much as he did. Enjoy this conversation with Acklen’s honorary mother and grandmother, Miss Dot.
Order of Worship - Recorded on October 4, 2020
William Carothers: Podcast Welcome (begins at 1:40)
Glenn McLain: In Person Welcome (begins at 6:00)
J.P. Conway: Sermon (begins at 30:20)
Corey Spivey: Sermon (begins at 54:28)
Tyrone Moore: Communion (begins at 1:36:30)
Acklen Specific Announcements: (begins at 1:41:33)
In this episode of Male and Female in Genesis through Revelation, one of our elders, Matt Perkins, looks at likely the most important woman in the entire bible, Mary the mother of Jesus. We’ll be discussing this episode during our Wednesday night Zoom on October 14. If you have any comments or questions you’d like to see discussed, please reach out. Thanks for listening and participating in this discernment.
Clark Christian: Welcome, Exodus 20:1-20, and Prayer
Randy Spivey: Psalm 19 and Prayer
J.P. Conway: Sermon on Matthew 21:33-46 (begins at 6:06)
Chris Church: Table Talk (begins at 25:27)
DJ Church: Philippians 3:4-14 and Prayer
Brad Knapp: announcements (begins at 29:33)
You’re listening to our third episode on “Male and Female in Genesis through Revelation.” In this episode, our preacher, J.P. Conway, looks at the Old Testament and asks, “What Did Women Do?” While most of the Old Testament leaders and prophets are male, the female examples deserve mention. Let’s explore the meaning of what God did through Miriam, Deborah, Huldah, Ruth, Esther, and others. We’ll discuss this episode on our October 7 midweek Zoom.
Paul Prill: Welcome, Exodus 17:1-7, and Prayer
Justin Myrick: Psalm 78:1-4, 12-16 and Prayer
JP Conway: Sermon on Matthew 21:23-32 (begins at 7:19)
Nigel Fontenot: Table Talk (begins at 24:30)
Bryan Thornton: Philippians 2:1-13 and Prayer
Spencer Porter: announcements (begins at 31:20)
You’re listening to our second episode on “Male and Female in Genesis through Revelation.” In this episode, one of our elders, Paul Spivey, explores what it’s like to live between Genesis 1-2 and Revelation 21-22. When it comes to how we understand our sex and role as a man or woman, what is a created good in Genesis 1-2 and what is part of the fall in Genesis 3? What does it mean to see Jesus as the answer to curse of Genesis 3 and the path back to the Tree of Life? What does it mean to see our future in the new heavens and new earth of Revelation as a place of no curse and no sorrow? What does it mean to say that this kingdom has already come but not yet come? What does it meant to be curse reversal people? We’ll be discussing this episode on our September 30 midweek Zoom. If you have any questions or thoughts, please shoot me an email or text. We appreciate your prayers on this discernment.
Chris Church: Welcome, Exodus 16:2-15, and Opening Prayer
Isaiah Wagner: Psalm 105:1-6, 37-45 and Prayer
J.P. Conway: Sermon on Matthew 20:1-16 (begins at 5:18)
Dave Wagner: Table Talk (begins at 19:08)
Lake Porter: Philippians 1:21-30 and Closing Prayer
Paul Spivey: Announcements (begins at 22:44)
Guess what church? In the midst of the pandemic, Daniel and Leighann Copeland, along with their girls, moved back to middle Tennessee after 3 years away from us. In this episode, we discuss building the Eiffel Tower, playing cards with grandparents, going back home as an adult, and learning how to be grateful. Enjoy.
Last August, our elders announced a year of discernment. A central part of this focused on a reflection of how we use our spiritual gifts, especially the gifts of women. As you know, we were a few short months from completion when the pandemic hit. This fall on our Wednesday night zooms, we'll continue the conversation. This episode will be discussed on Wednesday September 23.
Paul Spivey: Welcome, Exodus 14:19-31, and prayer
Bodhi Dark: Matthew 18:21-35 and prayer
J.P. Conway: Psalm 137 Sermon (begins at 7:35)
Ryan Sullenberger: Communion Meditation (begins at 26:11)
Jonah Perkins: Romans 14:1-12 and prayer
Brad Knapp: Announcements (begins at 30:05)
Welcome to this special episode of Checking in with the Family. Guest Host Sarah Edwards interviews one of our beloved second graders, Penny Hoskins. They discuss the joy of chocolate sauce, the solid charity work done by Barbie and friends, pandemic fashion, and backyard mermaids. Here you go.
Bryan Thornton: Welcome, Exodus 12:1-14, and prayer
Eric Simon: Matthew 18:15-20 and Prayer
J.P. Conway: Lamentations part two (begins at 5:16)
Clark Christian: Communion meditation (begins at 25:25)
Andrew Sternberg: Romans 13:8-14 and Closing Prayer
Chris Church: announcements (begins at 30:20)
Check out the latest episode of “Checking in with the Family.” Today, I chatted with my honorary grandmother and maybe yours as well, Fran Crouch. She’s been an Acklen fixture since 1956. In the episode, she shares how she and Bill have coped with quarantine, her interpretation of taking “the long way home,” the value of blind dates, and the meaning of living up to your vows. Towards the end, she offers some wisdom on how to survive these times. Sit down, relax, and enjoy the conversation.
Bryan Thornton: Welcome/Exodus 3:1-15/prayer
John Delony: Matthew 16:21-28/Prayer
JP Conway: Sermon on Lamentations-part one (begins at 7:30)
Justin Myrick: Table Talk/Meditation (begins at 28:05)
Eric Simon: Romans 12:9-21/Prayer
Chris Church: announcements (begins at 35:32)
Brad Knapp: Welcome/Exodus 1:8-2:10/Prayer
Clay Jones: Matthew 16:13-20/Prayer
JP Conway: Sermon on Psalm 22 (begins at 7:29)
Matt Bauer: Communion Meditation (begins at 28:23)
DJ Church: Romans 12:1-8/Prayer
Spencer Porter: Announcements (begins at 31:02)
Matt Perkins: Welcome/Genesis 45:1-15/Prayer
Charlie Perkins: Psalm 133/Prayer
JP Conway: Sermon on Matthew 27:45-54 (begins at 7:26)
Danny Ray Martin: Communion Meditation (begins at 24:39)
JP Conway: Romans 11:1-2, 29-32/Prayer
Paul Spivey: Announcements (begins at 30:37)
In this season, staying connected with each other has been complicated. To help in a small way, we're continuing a new feature on the Acklen podcast feed-"Checking in with the family." A few times a month, I'll interview an Acklen family member. We'll keep it light and relatively short. Our goal is to smile and maybe even laugh a bit.
Today, I checked in with Bodhi Dark. He shares how many cows he’s milked on his family’s dairy farm, what it was like to sing in an empty LAX airport, and his new enchilada recipe. He reveals the source of some recent inspiration as well as the backstory of where he got his name. And he leaves us with some hope in the God who makes and keeps promises. Enjoy this conversation with Acklen’s favorite New Zealander.
Over the last five months, I’ve had countless conversations, read countless articles, and listened to countless podcasts all on this theme, “How Should Christians Respond to the reality of 2020?” To the loss of life and pain caused by the COVID-19 virus, to the persistent evil of racism, to the fractured relationships and seeming inability to have constructive, reconciling conversations in our society-how should people of Jesus respond?
Lament. I think our response begins with the biblical category of lament, seen specifically in the Psalms, Job, Lamentations, and Jesus. Lament is honest hope.
As people of the resurrection, we are not without hope. At the same time, as people of truth, we are honest. How do we do both? Ryan Sullenberger says, “lament is the language which truth makes possible.” We tell the truth about the devastation of death, disease, abuse, racism, poverty, immorality, and alienation. But we also tell the truth about the Jesus who is making all things new. The author Marilynne Robinson describes biblical hope as “constantly and intensely vulnerable.” The author G.K. Chesterton calls biblical hope as “unreasonable as it is indispensable.”
Over the next five weeks, our sermons will focus on the theme of lament. You’ll want to have an open Bible as we study, because we’ll closely read the scriptures to see the movements of lament. I pray that lament can become more of a practice in our common life together, as well as our individual discipleship.
To lay some groundwork for this conversation, Ryan Sullenberger offers this meditation on lament flowing out of some of Jemar Tisby’s thoughts in The Color of Compromise, our Wednesday night book study.
Spencer Porter: Genesis 37:1-4,12-28 and prayer
Jeremy Martin: Psalm 105:1-6, 16-22, 45 and prayer
JP Conway: Sermon on Mark 13:1-5 (begins at 7:43)
Chris Church: Communion (begins at 28:53)
Jonah Perkins: Romans 10:5-15 and prayer
Brad Knapp: announcements (begins at 35:39)
In this season, staying connected with each other has been complicated. To help in a small way, we're continuing a new feature on the Acklen podcast feed-"Checking in with the family." A few times a month, I'll interview an Acklen family member. We'll keep it light and relatively short. Our goal is to smile and maybe even laugh a bit.
Today, I checked in with Judy Jackson. She weighs in on Vanderbilt football and whether or not Michael Jordan is the greatest basketball player of all time. She shares an update on her dog Pixie and tells us about the best milkshake she’s ever had. And no, she does not miss cooking. Enjoy this conversation with an Acklen veteran of 57 years!
Prayer of Blessing - J.P. Conway
Youth Ministry Values - Spencer Porter
Water Bottle - Lily Batey
Flashlight - D.J. Church
Bible - Nancy Martin
In this episode, with school beginning this week, we pray over our students and teachers. We also welcome 5 new 5th graders into our Youth Ministry. Per our tradition, they receive 3 gifts-a water bottle, flashlight, and Bible.
Order of Worship
Ryan Sullenberger: Gen 32:22-31 and prayer
Nigel Fontenot: Psalm 17:1-7, 15 and prayer
JP Conway: Sermon Luke 10:25-28
Tim Spivey: Table Talk
Jack Sternberg: Rom 9:1-5 and prayer
Chris Church: Announcements
Order of Worship
Brad Knapp: Genesis 29:15-28 and prayer
Jonathan Gibson: Psalm 119:129-136 and prayer
Paul Spivey: Sermon on Mark 2:21-22
Bryan Thornton: Table Talk
Clay Jones: Romans 8:26-39 and prayer
Spencer Porter: Announcements
Welcome to our inaugural episode of “Checking in with the Family.” Today, I checked in with Justin Myrick. He reveals that 900 Acklen Avenue still stands, shares his discovery of 160-year-old family letters, explains why he only goes once daily to Twice Daily, and gives advice on how to throw out the first pitch at a baseball game.
Bodhi Dark: Genesis 28:10-19 and prayer
Neal Allison: Psalm 139:1-24 and prayer
JP Conway: Sermon on Matthew 16:21-28
Spencer Porter: Table Talk
Lake Porter: Romans 8:12-25 and prayer
Paul Spivey: announcements
Prayer and Genesis 25:19-34: Paul Prill
Prayer and Psalm 119:105-112: Tim Spivey
Sermon from Philippians 4:4-9: JP Conway
Communion: Paul Spivey
Prayer and Matthew 13:1-23: Bryan Thornton
Announcements: Chris Church
Welcome, Opening Prayer, and Genesis 24:34-67 – Justin Myrick
Song of Solomon 2:8-13 and Prayer – Brian Batey
Sermon on Matthew 14:22-36 – J.P. Conway
Communion Prayer – Randy Spivey
Romans 7:15-25 and Prayer – Dave Wagner
Announcements – Brad Knapp
Order of Worship:
Welcome, Opening Prayer, and Genesis 22:1-14 – Danny Ray Martin
Psalm 13 and Prayer – Jeremy Martin
Sermon - Galatians 6:1-10 – J.P. Conway
Communion Prayer – Chris Church
Matthew 10:40-42 and Prayer – Paul Prill
Announcements – Spencer Porter
Order of Worship:
Welcome and Opening Prayer, Gen. 21:8-21 - Prentice Ashford
Psalm 86:1-17 and Prayer - Matt Sullivan
Sermon - JP Conway - Mark 3:20-35
Communion Prayer - Andrew Sternberg
Romans 6:1-11 - Charlie Perkins
Announcements - Chris Church
Order of Worship:
Welcome, Gen 18:1-15 and Opening Prayer - Ryan Sullenberger
Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19 and Prayer - Isaiah Wagner
Sermon - JP Conway - Mark 12:28-34
Communion Meditation and Prayer - Eric Simon
Romans 5:1-8 and Prayer - DJ Church
Announcements - Paul Spivey
Order of Worship:
Welcome, Gen 1:1-2:4a and Opening Prayer - Spencer Porter
Psalm 8 and Prayer - Jonah Perkins
Sermon - JP Conway - Revelation 7:9-10
Communion Meditation and Prayer - Tim Spivey
2 Corinthians 13:11-13 and Prayer - Jack Sternberg
Announcements - Brad Knapp
Order of Worship:
Welcome, John 20:19-23, and Opening Prayer: Chris Church
Psalm 104:24-35 and Prayer: Clay Jones
Sermon: JP Conway - Acts 2:1-21
Communion Meditation and Prayer: Justin Myrick
1 Corinthians 12:3-13 and Closing Prayer: Andrew Sternberg
Announcements: Spencer Porter
Order of Worship:
Welcome, Acts 1:6-14, and Opening Prayer: Eric Simon
Psalm 68:1-10, 32-35 and Prayer: Brian Batey
Sermon: JP Conway - John 17:1-11
Communion Meditation and Prayer: Ryan Sullenburger
1 Peter 4:12-14; 5:6-11 and Closing Prayer: Danny Ray Martin
Announcements: Paul Spivey
Welcome scripture (Psalm 66:8-20) and prayer: Matt @ Stallworth Dr
Scripture reading (John 14:15-21) and prayer: Paul @ Ashley Dr
Sermon on Acts 17:22-31: JP @ Trousdale Dr
Communion: Ryan @ Birch Bark Dr
Closing scripture (1 Peter 3:13-22) and prayer: Charlie @ Stallworth Dr
Announcement: Chris @ Lakeview Dr
Welcome scripture and prayer: Matt Sullivan John 14:1-14
Scripture reading and prayer: Jeremy Martin Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16
Sermon: JP Conway Acts 7:55-60
Communion: Clark Christian
Closing scripture and prayer: Randy Spivey 1 Peter 2:2-10
Announcement: Brad Knapp
The sermon was on Matthew 28:1-15.
Matthew 28:1-15 After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to look at the tomb. 2 There was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and, going to the tomb, rolled back the stone and sat on it. 3 His appearance was like lightning, and his clothes were white as snow. 4 The guards were so afraid of him that they shook and became like dead men. 5 The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. 6 He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. 7 Then go quickly and tell his disciples: ‘He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.’ Now I have told you.” 8 So the women hurried away from the tomb, afraid yet filled with joy, and ran to tell his disciples. 9 Suddenly Jesus met them. “Greetings,” he said. They came to him, clasped his feet and worshiped him. 10 Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid. Go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me.” 11 While the women were on their way, some of the guards went into the city and reported to the chief priests everything that had happened. 12 When the chief priests had met with the elders and devised a plan, they gave the soldiers a large sum of money, 13 telling them, “You are to say, ‘His disciples came during the night and stole him away while we were asleep.’ 14 If this report gets to the governor, we will satisfy him and keep you out of trouble.” 15 So the soldiers took the money and did as they were instructed. And this story has been widely circulated among the Jews to this very day.
This episode includes a prayer, scripture John 9:1-41, a message by JP Conway, a communion meditation, closing scripture Psalm 23, and a closing prayer.
JP Conway was out of town so Ryan Sullenberger filled in and preached from Jeremiah 29:1-7.
JP Conway was out of town so Spencer Porter filled in preaching from Hebrews 11:29-12:2.
JP Conway started off our series on 1st Corinthians. He preached on 1 Corinthians 1:1-18. Thanks for joining us!