Heritage Baptist Church: Recent Episodes
Heritage Baptist Church
Welcome to the podcast of Heritage Baptist Church in Lynchburg, VA. This podcast includes teaching from our senior pastor, Dr. Nathan Smith.
Temptation is a reality in this fallen world, but at what point does a temptation become sin? Where does temptation come from and how are we do deal with it when it comes. In this teaching, Pastor Jeff walks through the pathway of #sin seen in James 1 in order to best understand how to respond to to #temptation.
Marriage is not a trivial thing, but rather a holy image of Jesus and his bride, the church. Therefore, marriage should be understood in light of this imagery and the love that Jesus has for us. In this teaching, Pastor Mike looks at the eternality of love and it's impact on the marital union in order to deconstruct the world's view for what is far more profound and glorious.
marriage #relationship #wife #husband #love
Love is often misunderstood in terms of personal feelings or happiness, yet Christ-like love is far more profound and difficult. In this teaching, Pastor Mike looks at 1 Corinthians 13 in order to define Christ-like love and it's power in the church. True love is not simple or easy, but it is life changing.
love #scripture #marriage #family
The book of judges stands as a stark reminder of man depravity and God's patience. In this teaching, Pastor Kent walks through the cycle of sin in the book in order that we may heed a warning against small concessions that lead to major sin.
The end of 2 Timothy includes the final words of Paul who points Timothy to the importance of the Word of God and the reality of suffering for Christ. In this teaching Pastor Nathan finishes up our series on the pastoral epistles with a call to be people of the scriptures.
Watch as Pastor Nathan looks at further evidences pointing to the trustworthiness of the Bible. In this teaching he looks at the historical manuscripts and the confidence we can have in our current copies of the Bible.
How do we know that the #bible is true? Are there any evidences outside the Bible that demonstrate it's veracity? How does the Bible describe itself and what #authority does it claim to hold? This is the first of Pastor Nathan's 3 part #teaching on the Bible. In this teaching, Nathan looks at the some key reasons we can place out trust in the Word of God.
In Psalm 19, David is moved by two distict creations that point to the glory and power of God. The first is the natural world, but the greater is the Word of God. In this teaching, Pastor Mike walks through this well known Psalm so that we may grow in our understanding of and affection for the Word. #bible #jesus #gospel #scripture #psalms
The Word of God is the foundation of our faith the means for understanding life and the world around us. In this teaching, Pastor Nathan looks at the importance of the Word in living for Christ.
2 Timothy 3 begins with a list of vices that characterize people in the last days. What are the last days and why is it importaqnt to define what sin is in our world today? Pastor Nathan unpacks the first part of chapter 3 with an examination of ourselves as well as an examination of false teachers and those far from God.
Throughout the Bible we see that we are secured in salvation by grace through faith in the person and work of Christ - yet so many struggle to feel close to Christ. In this teaching, Pastor Nathan unpacks the difference between our union with Jesus and our communion with him. What is the difference and how does this relate to the instructions given to Timothy?#bible #jesus #church #christianity #salvation #grace #security #eternallife
The Bible speaks of those who trust in Jesus as being "in Christ" but what does this mean? In this two-part teaching, Pastor Nathan unpacks theprofound and life-changing truth about a believers union with Jesus. In this second part, Nathan looks at dozens of scriptures to see how we are united in the resurrection of Jesus.
The Bible speaks of those who trust in Jesus as being "in Christ" but what does this mean? In this two-part teaching, Pastor Nathan unpacks theprofound and life-changing truth about a believers union with Jesus. In this first part, Nathan looks at the death of Christ and how followers of Christ share in the death of Jesus on the cross.
In 2 Timothy, Paul described the Christian life as a soldier, an athlete, and a farmer. What do these images have to do with following Christ? In this teaching, Pastor Nathan considers each of the these and challenges all believers to count the cost of following Jesus.
In Matthew 28 Jesus says that "all authority...has been given to me" - but what does that look like? In this teaching, Pastor Nathan looks at the authority Jesus has over the seen, the unseen, and our redemption as he walks through the story of Jesus in the storm and his interaction with the demon posssessed man.
Have you every thought about why you attend church? Is church attendance a means of gaining God's favor, an experience for us as individuals, or is it something far more beautiful and profound. In this teaching, Dr. David Croteau from Columbia International University looks at the admonitions of Hebrews chapter 10 so that we better understand God's desire for the people of God.
The church is made up of people who have been redeemed by Christ, yet so often we find division and bitterness among them. Why do we fight against one another and how does the Gospel transform the way we approach our brothers and sisters in Christ. In this message, Pastor Mike looks to Romans 12 to help us understand how we allow the Gospel to influence our church communities. #jesus #bible #church #forgiveness #grace #hypocrites #anger #gossip #churchhurt
To live in obedience to Jesus is to live in a countercultural way. To follow Jesus is to follow the way of suffering and rejection, yet many who claim Christ are confused by this idea. How can we live unashamed lives, grounded in the truth of Jesus Christ?
Dr. Gnanakan provides a look at the church of Corinth and the elements that caused this early church mover way off course.
In this introduction to the book of 2 Timothy, Pastor Nathan looks at the themes of Paul's letter to a discouraged and exhausted elder.
The book of Colossians was written to a people wrestling with fear over evil spirits and human philosophies. Into this fear, Paul reminds believers of the completed work of Christ and their transference from the kingdom of darkness into the kingdom of light.
How does being redeemed by Jesus change our lives? What is our guiding truth and instruction for dealing with governing authorities, relationships, and other issues in life? In Titus 3, the Apostle Paul provides crucial instructions for those who follow Christ. This is especially challenging in a world that celebrates rebellion and revolution. What role, if any, do our rights play in the living a life like Jesus?#gospel #church #rights #government #submission #authority #jesus #christianity
Do you beautify the gospel with your life or do you make the gospel of Christ unappealing to those around you? In this teaching, Pastor Nathan looks at Paul's description of the gospel in Titus 2 and how it's impact transforms the lives of those submitted to it.
What makes a godly leader? Is it good communication and a dynamic personality or is there something more? Pastor Nathan provides an overview of the book of Titus and a rundown of what makes a godly leader so important to the local church.
In 1 Corinthians 10, Paul writes to instruct the church by pointing to the history of Israel. In this teaching, Pastor Kent walks through the instructions and warnings of 1 Corinthians 10 as well as the narratives that help illuminate the text even more.
Why is the virgin birth so crucial to the story of Jesus? Why is the incarnation of Jesus so important to our salvation? In this teaching pastor Nathan helps us to see the crucial reason we celebrate the birth of Jesus during Christmas.
The incarnation of Jesus Christ is the greatest miracle recorded in the scriptures. The perfect, holy, omnipotent God of all creation taking the form of man is too glorious for us to fully comprehend. It is this amazing reality that we celebrate at Christmas and it is worth the time to unpack what the incarnation means for us today.
The story of Zechariah from Luke 1 provides a glimpse into the redemptive history of Israel. Why was the promise of a child to Zechariah a means of worship and celebration? As we consider the Christmas story, let us consider the historic tapestry from which Jesus came. In this teaching, Pastor Nathan Smith highlights a curious message of a God who loves to come near.
Dr. Conrad Mbewe shares about the glories of God as seen in Psalm 8. Who is this God who reigns above the heavens? What is our relation to his transcendence and majesty?
Jeremiah 29:11 is a popular verse but do you know the full context? Pastor Jeff Scott looks at this passage in order that we may better understand what this passage means for us today.
What does a church on mission look like? What are we supposed to be doing as united followers of Jesus? Pastor Nathan walks through the mission statement of HBC to help paint a picture of the church's purpose in the world. Heritage Baptist Church Mission Statement:"We exist to make disciples of Jesus Christ by living the gospel life among the nations."
The central theme to all of scripture is the glory of God. How is this the case? What about Jesus? In this teaching, Pastor Nathan examines the glory of God through the redemption narrative and what it means for us today. What does it mean for us to bear God's glory? How can this truth unleash the church for the exaltation of God among the nations?
God has a purpose and desire to redeem people from all nations, tribes, and tongues. This is not a minor theme or the Bible but one that is found throughout all of the scriptures. Our God is too glorious to be limited to one nation - He desires them all. What does this mean for the world and for us today?
Did you know that Satan is a key character in the book of Timothy? The everyday means of following Christ, establishing elders, and other actions of the church are acts of spiritual warfare. In this teaching, Pastor Nathan points to the realities of this fight and then to the One who is able to empower us within it.
spiritualwarfare #angels #demons #Satan #devil #hope #Bible #Jesus
What comes to mind when you think "submission." Have you ever considered submission as a means to joy and comfort? In this teaching, Pastor Kent walks through Psalm 40 in order to see how David interacted with the Lord. It's inside of this Psalm that we see the peace that can be found in person submission to God and also towards one another (especially inside the family).
Contentment is the means by which we can find rest and peace in this world, but what is contentment? How do we live content lives? What are the inherent dangers of money, wealth, and the accumulation of stuff? In this teaching, Nathan unpacks what it means to be content and how our eternal perspective helps provide power of anxiety, fear, and covetousness.
wealth #money #hope #anxiety #fear #jesus #bible #godliness
Are you increasing in wisdom or foolishness? What does it mean to be a fool and how does that relate to our understanding about authority? Pastor Nathan looks at 1 Timothy 6 in order that we would understand the truth about employment, pride, and what to look for in a false teacher. Nathan also takes time to teach about slavery in the Bible and how we should look at it in light of the evils of slavery seen in our country and around the world.
This week Pastor Nathan begins 1 Timothy 5 by looking at some of the practical outworkings of church life, including the care of widows in the church. What are the responsibilities and qualifications of a widow as described by Paul, and how is the community supposed to help them?
Pastor Nathan continues our study through 1 Timothy with a look at the practical instructions for elders in the church. What does it mean to honor an elder? How should we deal with accusations against elders? #church #bible #elders #governance #leadership
Dr. Croteau is the dean of the seminary and the school of ministry at Columbia International University. In this teaching, Dr. Croteau helps us to recognize the lenses we often view the Bible and then provides helpful guidelines for reading through the New Testament.
You can find a copy of his helpful resource for reading the New Testament HERE.
What is godliness? Why is it important to the Christian life? How is it connected to our salvation? Pastor Nathan continues our study in the book of 1 Timothy with a look at the elements of the godly life and why is it crucial for us to pursue godliness in all we do.
At the end of chapter 3, Paul expresses what the church declares to be true in regards to Jesus Christ - yet moments later he warns of the demonic entities that desire to pervert this important truth. In this teaching, Pastor Nathan exposes the truth about the normal work of demons that is far more insidious than Hollywood movies would make you think.
demons #hell #spirits #spiritualwarfare #falseteaching #Bible #Jesus #power
1 Tim 3:16 provides a powerful statement about the church's doctrine on Jesus, yet so many today seem to think doctrine is a bad word. In this teaching, Pastor Nathan looks at the 6 statements written by Paul that are helpful for defining the foundational truths of the church. #church #bible #jesus #doctrine #doctrineofchrist #incarnation
The church is made of people who have been redeemed by Christ and set apart for living the gospel life among the nations, but does our life reflect that reality? Is the body of Christ really important to us or just something we come to each week? Do we seek to guard this precious gift or take it for granted?
church #Jesus #Bible #hope #bodyofChrist #elders #deacons
What is the role of a deacon? Who can serve as a deacon? What is the difference between an elder and a deacon? There are many questions about the role of deacons in the #church. Pastor Nathan walks through the qualifications of the deacons in 1 Timothy 3 to help illuminate Paul's thoughts on this important role in the church. He also takes time to discuss the controversial topic of women serving as deacons. Does the text allow for this or is this only for men?
leadership #elders #women #men #deacon
What matters most when it comes to elders in the church? Should a church be more interested in their style, effectiveness, or their holiness? In this teaching from Pastor Nathan Smith, he unpacks the qualifications of an elder to see that character is of primary importance when considering an elder. Why is this the case and why are elders so important for the local church?
In the New Testament, we learn about the roles of overseer, elder, and shepherd. Are these different roles or a description of one primary role? What is the purpose of that role and how is it practically worked out in the context of the local church? These are some of the questions that pastor Nathan answers from the book of 1 Timothy.
How is your walk with God? Do you enjoy time with him on a regular basis or is He is the last thing on your mind throughout the day? These are important questions for anyone claiming to follow Jesus.
What you behold you will become, so what are you beholding? In this teaching, Pastor Kent looks at the process of sanctification in the life of the believer. How does this process work and how much of it depends on us?
Pastor Nathan Fox shares how our right understanding of God leads to increased worship and obedience.
With Deut 4:9 in clear view, Pastor Joshua walks through the story of Gideon from victory with God to the abandonment of God for other things. What is the warning in this tragic story and how does this directly connect with out influence over our children and the future generations?
Welcome to a special prayer service featuring various scripture readings and times of prayer for unity among the body of Christ at Heritage. You can find the full video of this service, including the times of worship on our youtube page here - https://youtube.com/live/CNQo3g_Lko0?feature=share.
In this conclusion of a mini-series on women in the church, Pastor Nathan looks at 1 Tim 2:15. This difficult verse has caused confusion for men and women alike as it seems to indicate salvation by way of childbirth. Is this the case, or is there something else going on in Paul's writing? How does this verse relate the overall flow of his argument and what encouragement can be gleaned from this seemingly troublesome verse?
If you have not already, please take time to listen to the previous teaching for full context of this controversial passage. Those other teachings may help answer questions that you have about this section of scripture.
Final Mini-Series
- Part 1 - Let a Woman Learn and Exercise Her Role Rightly
- Part 2 - A Needed Confession Concerning Male Roles Exercised Unjustly
- Part 3 - A Needed Understanding Concerning Females Roles Exercised in Dissatisfaction
- Part 4 - The Great Debate: What Can a Woman Do in the Church?
- Part 5 - Sisters -Persevere for Your Complete Salvation is Coming
women #ministry #church #Bible #men #Genesis #love #grace
There is much confusion and struggle with the words of Paul in 1 Timothy 2. Are we to understand that God is commanding women to not speak at all? Is this a cultural condition or something else? Are women scripturally allowed to be pastors? Pastor Nathan Smith continues unpacking this often misunderstood to scripture in order to understand some of the specifics of Paul's argument. This teaching is the 4th in a series, therefore full context is found in the previous teachings.
women #church #Jesus #headship #Genesis #marriage #love
Last week Pastor Nathan taught on the Bible's description on men's struggle with sin as it pertains to roles in marriage and the church. This week he unpacks the struggles women face in exercising their God-given roles. This is the 3rd teaching in this miniseries on men and women roles.
In the discussion of male and female roles inside the local church, it's important for men to recognize their own intrinsic fallenness. In this teaching, Pastor Nathan looks specifically at the #struggles of men that have caused harm to women in the church. This teaching will look at the nature of the fall in Genesis 3 and it's impact on men today. This is the second teaching in a series on the roles of #men and #women in the #church.
Series Titles:
- May 14 - Let a Woman Learn and Exercise Her Role Rightly
- May 21 - A Needed Confession Concerning Male Roles Exercised Unjustly
- May 28 - A Needed Understanding Concerning Females Roles Exercised in Dissatisfaction
- June 4 - The Great Debate: What Can a Woman Do in the Church?
- June 11 - Sisters...Persevere for Your Complete Salvation is Coming
Bible #Jesus #1Timothy #gender
This teaching is the first in a 5 part series on 1 Timothy 2:11-15, discussing the role of #women and #men in the church. This controversial passage has led to divisions in the #church, yet can be a means of encouragement when understood correctly. Over the next few weeks, Pastor Nathan will unpack many of the questions that arise from this passage in hopes to bring clarity and encouragement to brothers and sisters in Christ.
Upcoming Series Titles:
- May 14 - Let a Woman Learn and Exercise Her Role Rightly
- May 21 - A Needed Confession Concerning Male Roles Exercised Unjustly
- May 28 - A Needed Understanding Concerning Females Roles Exercised in Dissatisfaction
- June 4 - The Great Debate: What Can a Woman Do in the Church?
- June 11 - Sisters...Persevere for Your Complete Salvation is Coming
When the church comes together to #worship it does so in the midst of a #spiritualbattle. 1 Timothy 2 speaks directly to some of those battles in the hearts of #men and #women specifically. While this passage about #modesty and #anger is often misunderstood - the Lord desires that it would help His people guard against our pride and walk in humility and love for one another in how we speak, act, and even dress.
We all love to enjoy the blessings of God in this life, yet is there more to our #blessed life than our enjoyment? Are the blessings of God motivating us towards obedience or do they just terminate on our person enjoyment? Aubrey Sequeria is the pastor of Evangelical Community Church in Abu Dhabi and in this teaching, he unpacks Psalm 67 and looks at 3 petitions and 4 purposes for God's blessings.
A confession is a statement that sets out essential religious doctrines that then impact our lives in profound ways. Pastor Nathan Fox looks at one of these confessions in Matthew 16 and it's implications for our life in Christ.
confession #Jesus #church #doctrine #theology #trinity
What does Jesus mean to you? Have you ever truly considered that question? Are you just aware of his name or do you love and value Christ enough to pursue Him fully? These are crucial questions for each of us and in this teaching Pastor Nathan walks through the beginning of 1 Timothy 2 so that we can understand the marks of a life that love Jesus.
Jesus #discipleship #love #eternallife #gospel #Christ #obedience #worship
On this Easter Sunday service, Pastor Nathan asks the question "what does the resurrection tell us about Jesus" and also "what does the resurrection mean for us?" Listen as Nathan shares God's word about the glories of the resurrection of Jesus and God's heart for the beautification of his bride.
easter #resurrection #hope #joy #sunday #church
Why did God come into the world to save us? What was his motivation? In this teaching, Pastor Nathan walks through Ezekiel 19 in order to properly provide a picture of God's heart for his people, which ultimately leads back to the entrance of Christ into Jerusalem.
During the passion week of Christ, the people of Jerusalem go from being a people cheering the entrance of Jesus to crying for his crucifixion. What caused such a drastic change?
Warfare has been part of the human experience since the fall of man. For the Christian, warfare is very real and often intense. This is why Paul encourages Timothy to "wage the good warfare", because he knew that there was a world and an enemy who were systematically seeking to destroy. So how does a follower of Jesus battle in this war? What is the sphere of our involvement and who should be the focus of our assault? Pastor Nathan shares details on this battle by looking at 1 Timothy and other texts in the scriptures.
warfare #spiritual #Christian #Jesus #Bible #battle
During this special prayer service you will hear from Pastors Joshua Hankins and Mike Crump as well as Jim Vernon, who serves as a deacon at Heritage. The purpose of this service is to meditate on the heart Jesus has for his Father, for his people, and for the church. We pray this is an encouragement for you as you listen.
Pastor Rob and Tyler share about the current state of missions and Heritage's role in the great commission.
We have heard the word before, but do we really grasp what "grace" really means? Is it just God bypassing our sin or being nice because of his love or is it something much more profound? In this teaching, Pastor Nathan Smith looks at the life of Paul as an example of God's grace as he answers 3 key questions.
- What does grace look like?
- How does grace work?
- What does a grace-weighted church look like?
grace #love #hope #church #Bible #Jesus #apostlePaul
What is the purpose of the Old Testament law for the New Testament church? Pastor Nathan continues in 1 Timothy by teaching on the different aspects of the Old Testament law and how it applies to us today. There is a correct way to approach God law that brings great joy to the Christian.
oldtestament #lawofGod #torah #1Timothy #Bible #Jesus
Early in 1 Timothy the apostle Paul gives a warning against false teachers and the vanity of chasing conspiracies and myths. In this teaching Pastor Nathan unpacks how we can discern false teachers, how we can disagree with others well, and how we can be an undistracted people.
"Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the command of God our Savior and of Christ Jesus our hope,To Timothy my true son in the faith: Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord." 1 Timothy 1:1-2
What does it mean to be the church? Who are we to be as people of God? Is being part of a local body important? In this series Pastor Nathan seeks to help us understand the glorious reality of Christ's church. This teaching serves as an introduction and background to our upcoming series in 1 & 2 Timothy entitled, "Living Out the Living Christ."
church #Jesus #localchurch #bodyofchrist #purpose #Acts
How is the church an expression of Jesus? Pastor Nathan has us consider 7 ways that we see the living Christ in the life of the church.
In Acts 2 we see the beginning of a new era as the church is formed and empowered by the Holy Spirit. This moment in the history of the church is also the beginning of the great reversal. How is the church a great reversal? Pastor Nathan opens up Acts 2 and shares 5 ways that the church is part becomes a primary part of the great reversal.
Vernon Smith, a global worker in Tanzania, shares from Acts 1 and how the people of God are to be proclaimers to the nation.
Pastor Nathan concludes the series on the book of Hebrews with a look at the author's prayer of benediction. The book of Hebrews calls believers to a great high and holy life, but how is that possible given our frailty? This prayer provides an answer to this question.
We often give thanks for the many blessings of God, yet how often have we stopped to express thanksgiving for His holiness? Pastor Kent encourages us to thank God for His holiness by looking at the importance of this attribute in our life.
What does it mean to bring acceptable worship to God? What should a life of sacrificial worship look like? Pastor Nathan looks at Hebrew 13 and brings out 15 descriptions of a Christ-focused life of worship.
Do you worship God on your terms or on His? How do we live a life of worship in the midst of a sinful world? Pastor Nathan continues in Hebrews 13 with a passionate plea to consider your life in light of all Christ has done.
Have you considered the all-consuming holiness of God? No unclean thing can enter the fullness of His presence and survive, yet He welcomes us in through the blood of Jesus. In this teaching, Pastor Nathan continues our study in the book of Hebrews, considering our God has consuming fire.
Striving means pursuing something with great passion. It brings about images of a marathon runner who is pushing through pain and struggle to get to the finish line. We see the same call for striving in regard to our pursuit of holiness in Christ. Salvation is a free gift of God through Jesus, yet the process of becoming more like Jesus takes intentional striving. So what are we striving to do? Join Pastor Nathan as he looks at Hebrews to uncover how we can strive to be more like Jesus.
Discipline is not a popular word, because we do not like the idea of being corrected or reproofed for our actions. Yet, correction is not only good for us - it is a grace of God in our lives.
This week we welcomed Conrad Mbewe to Heritage. He shared with us from Isaiah 52, both the reality of Christ's suffering and His exaltation.
Pastor Mbewe has served as pastor of Kabwata Baptist Church in Lusaka, Zambia since 1987. Conrad is also working with African Christian University. For more on ACU visit http://acu-usa.com.
Are you running the race of faith? Are you weary from the run or frustrated by the struggle to keep pace? Do not set your eyes on your circumstances other lanes, but look first to Christ who calls us to run and strengthens us to endure.
Pastor Nathan Fox looks at the parable of the talents in Matthew 5 in order that we can see the stories within this important illustration.
The life of faith is not a life filled constantly with happiness and victory. There are seasons of life that are a struggle, whether because of personal failures, abuse from others, or tragic circumstances. It's often in these times that we ask the question, "where is God?"
If you have ever asked that question, you are not alone. Even men of God, like David, asked similar questions as he wrestled through the hardships of life. In this teaching, Pastor Nathan finishes Hebrews 11 with a look between the moments of faith expressed in Hebrews to the seasons of waiting and struggle.
Join Pastor Nathan and the people of Heritage as they pray through the mission of the church to make disciples by living the gospel life among the nations.
Moses was a man who spoke with God and walked in His presence. From his very birth, his life has been marked by acts of faith and is worthy to consider. In this teaching, Pastor Nathan looks at 4 "by faith" statements about Moses that are found in Hebrews 11. Each statement points to a faith that believed God, even in the midst of oppression, opposition, and fear.
Death is an inescapable reality of this sin-cursed world. It plagues our existence in this world, and for those who die apart from Christ, it will continue to be felt in the next. For the man or woman who has placed their faith in the person and work of Jesus Christ there is hope. While physical death may still be experienced, it does not have to cause us to fear for our Savior and King has defeated the full power of death. Therefore, we can look forward to the life we have after death. A life of eternal joy and pleasure in the presence of our glorious God.
Sarah, the wife of Abraham, is a complex character in the Bible. She is the wife of the great patriarch of the faith, yet laughed at the promised child and also attempted to use her own wisdom to produce that same child. While these are part of her story, the book of Hebrews still mentions her by name when recalling those who have faithfully believed the Lord.
How can this be? Join Pastor Nathan as he unpacks the life of Sarah and helps us see how this faithful woman came to be in Hebrews 11.
Nothing that God told Abraham to do seemed to make any sense to a man who was well established in his own city, yet the Lord had a much larger plan in place. While Abraham never got to see the final result of his faithful steps towards Cannan, we are evidence of God's mighty work in the life of this man of God. Join Pastor Nathan as he continues our walk through the Hall of Faith in Hebrews 11 with a teaching on the faith of Abraham.
What we believe about God is crucial to our life, especially for those who claim to be of Christ. In this teaching, Harvey Hartman opens up Exodus to share what God has to say about Himself and why that is so important for us today.
We all feel the struggle of living in a broken world, and for the Christian, we understand that there is coming a day when we will be freed of this brokenness. Pastor Jeff wrestles with this tension between the now and not yet as he shares 4 ways we can live in light of this reality.
Guest Teacher Dr. Chris Gnanakan opens up the book of Lamentations and shares about the importance of understanding the faithfulness of God in the midst of suffering. Hardship and pain are part of life, yet there is hope in Christ who is with us in the struggle.
In the book of Philippians, Paul calls on the church to stand firm in the truth of Christ and His Word. This same steadfastness brings about a changed life as we form our life around these eternal truths. In this teaching, Pastor Kent opens up the text of Philippians so that we can understand 4 ways in which we are to conduct our lives as Christ followers.
"And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him. By faith Noah, being warned by God concerning events as yet unseen, in reverent fear constructed an ark for the saving of his household. By this he condemned the world and became an heir of the righteousness that comes by faith." Hebrews 11:6-7
Hebrews 11 illustrates faith by providing stories of real men and women who have demonstrated trust in God. In today's teaching, Pastor Nathan begins our walk through these character studies by looking at the faith of Abel and Enoch.
Many people in church know of Hebrews 11 as the "Hall of Faith", yet in order for us to understand the significance of this passage, we need to first understand the context.
Pastor Nathan continues a deep dive into Hebrews chapter 10 so that we can better understand the confidence we can have in our salvation, which has been established by Christ Himself. If you have ever wrestled with the security of your salvation, please listen to this week and last for a clearer understanding of this important passage.
Hebrews 10:26-27 is a commonly debated passage because it seems to indicate that we can lose our salvation, and yet how could that be the case given some of the other passages in Hebrews and other scriptures? In this important teaching, Pastor Nathan walks through this controversial passage to help us better understand both the warning it issues and the security we ultimately have in Jesus.
In Hebrews 10 we are told not to neglect meeting together as a church. What does this mean for us today? Is attending a church really that important? Pastor Nathan again walks through God's instruction for His church in Hebrews 10 so that we may thrive as a local body of Christ.
What is the purpose of the church? While churches can look different all over the world, does the Bible give us any direction as to what is supposed to happen when we meet together? In this teaching, Pastor Nathan looks at the larger purpose of the church and the instructions given to us in Hebrews 10.
Pastor Jeff teaches from Philippians chapters 3 & 4 and encourages the church of Christ to be united in our work together as Gospel partners.
In this teaching Pastor Nathan begins chapter 10 of Hebrews with the question, "what is a Christian?"
The resurrection of Jesus secured for us an eternity with the Father that brings hope in this life. Pastor Nathan opens up the scriptures to consider the first words of Christ after His resurrection and what they mean for us today.
As we begin holy week, we take time to consider the glorious work of Jesus and His ongoing work in our lives.
Why was a blood sacrifice necessary for our salvation? Couldn't good works or religious ceremonies do enough? In this teaching, Pastor Nathan traces the necessity of a blood sacrifice to the pages of Romans 1 and the heart of sin that is in each of us at birth. It's when we see the depths of our sinfulness clearly that we can truly understand the incredible sacrifice of Jesus Christ, which leads us into greater worship of our amazing Savior.
The blood of Jesus provides for us eternal security and perfection that can never be revoked. As our Great High Priest, Jesus endured the cross so that we can enjoy the glories of God in heaven.
In Hebrews 9, the author provides a tour of the tabernacle which is rich is filled with imagery pointing to God's holiness. In this teaching Pastor Nathan walks through this passage as well as others to illuminate the holiness of Christ in the Old and New Testament.
While the world around us seems to erupt in greater levels of chaos, Jesus speaks to us from Matthew 24 with these words, "do not be led astray...do not be alarmed." In this teaching Pastor Nathan opens this crucial passage to encourage followers of Christ with these words and challenge those who do not know Jesus to trust in Him today.
The story of Mary & Martha in Luke 10 is a favorite among many because it reflects a common struggle between our need to sit at the feet of Jesus and our desire to care for needs around us. In this teaching, Dr. Gnanankan shares helpful truth from this important passage.
What do you think of when you think of Lot? The narrative of the Bible does not hold any punches about this man and his life of compromise and ungodly decisions, yet in 2 Peter he is referred to as righteous. How is this so? In this teaching, Pastor Nathan Fox walks through the life of Lot and examines the corrosion of his life and how it compares to the grace of God.
What is the Holy Spirit's role in your life? In this teaching Pastor Nathan walks through several key passages in Galatians 4 and 5 so that we can have a better understanding of the Spirit's work in our life as believers and also our responsibility to walk in the new life we have been given in Christ.
Have you ever considered what actually happens when someone puts their trust in Jesus? What does that transaction look like? How does it occur? Pastor Nathan continues our study in Hebrews 8 with a look at the power of regeneration found in the New Covenant.
But as it is, Christ has obtained a ministry that is as much more excellent than the old as the covenant he mediates is better, since it is enacted on better promises. For if that first covenant had been faultless, there would have been no occasion to look for a second.
For he finds fault with them when he says:
“Behold, the days are coming, declares the Lord,
when I will establish a new covenant with the house of Israel
and with the house of Judah,
not like the covenant that I made with their fathers
on the day when I took them by the hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt.
For they did not continue in my covenant,
and so I showed no concern for them, declares the Lord.
"Now the point in what we are saying is this: we have such a high priest, one who is seated at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in heaven," Hebrews 8:1
Pastor Vernon Smith shares an update about he and his wife, Mary's, work in Tanzania and then opens up 2 Timothy to encourage us to endure in our walk with Christ no matter what stage of life we may find ourselves.
Pastor Kent Gregory walks through the book of Daniel in order to trance the resolution of Daniel and other godly men whose faithful obedience stood the test of time. He ends with 4 biblical and practical insights on how to approach this upcoming year.
In this final teaching of our Christmas Series, Pastor Nathan looks at the Christmas story to see a peace that transcends all time and cultures because it's found in the eternal Son of God, Jesus.
"You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord God is an everlasting rock." Isaiah 26:3-4
Peace for the Christian is not a fleeting moment but a promised eternal state. Today Pastor Nathan continues looking at Isaiah 9 and shares about the eternality of the peace we have in Christ.
Often we view peace as the absence of all tension, yet the peace offered by Jesus Christ is far more incredible than that. In this teaching Pastor Nathan looks at the description of Jesus as the "Prince of Peace" and how the wholeness that is found in His presence is far greater than anything we could ever comprehend.
Pastor Nathan Smith continues our study of Hebrews with the conclusion of chapter 7 and the imaging of Melchizedek and Jesus.
There are elements of Hebrews 7 that are confusing or seem pointless for modern readers, yet the truth of this text is life-giving. Pastor Nathan continues his teaching through Hebrews with a further study of the image of Melkizadek.
What do the tithes given to Melchizadek have to do with modern-day followers of Christ? The author of Hebrews is not making an appeal for giving, so what is the purpose of this narrative? Why even bring it up? In this teaching, Pastor Nathan points again to the image of Jesus seen in the person of Melchizedek. Watch and be encouraged by the truth of a glorious Priest and King who is so good to His children.
Note: This was a brief teaching that was paired with a testimonial time in the service. Watch the full service here - https://youtu.be/M8iCUUNGpos
With so much worldly confusion and frustration over identity, Pastor Kent opens the scriptures to see what God has to say about who were are in Christ.
In the book of Hebrews we catch a glimpse of Jesus in the shadow of an Old Testament man named Melchizadek. What does this man have to do with us and our relationship with Christ?
Life is hard and often can cause us to doubt the very goodness of God. In this teaching, Dr. Gnanakan opens to Psalm 73 and shares about the goodness of God that is evident despite the realities of our broken world.
Dr. Conrad Mbewe was our special guest at Heritage GOES where he taught on the power of the gospel. This was the first session shared at our morning worship on October 17, 2021.
For more details on GOES or for all the sessions visit www.hbclynchburg.com/goes
Hebrews 6:19 tells us that "We have this as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul" who is our Great High Priest, Jesus Christ. Because of Christ alone, we can have a deep assurance of our eternal salvation that ignites in us a hunger for righteousness and a desire to share this truth with the world.
Hebrews 6 provides strong warnings against those who refuse to truly trust in the Gospel, yet the author also desires to assure true believers of the security of their salvation in Christ. In this teaching, Pastor Nathan walks through the incredible assurance that we can have of our salvation that is not based on our performance but on the very character and nature of God Himself.
In Hebrews 6 the author provides a vivid picture of two soils in order that we may better understand the nature of true salvation versus a false faith. This week Pastor Nathan continues to unpack this difficult yet important passage by considering the soils seen throughout the scriptures and also the lives of King Saul and David.
Can you lose your salvation? This question has plagued many Christians and much of it stems from a misunderstanding of Hebrews 6:4-6. In this teaching, Pastor Nathan begins unpacking the truth behind this controversial teaching and how the warnings are real but not in the way many people think they are. Listen to understand and be encouraged in the truth of this powerful text.
This week Pastor Nathan walks through the mission of Heritage Baptist Church and encourages the body to lay down temporal arguments and preferences for the unified purpose that Christ has given us. At Heritage, "we exists tomake followers of Jesus Christ by living the Gospel life among the nations". Will you join us?
Throughout the scriptures, we see the significance of God's presence in relation to His people. To be near God is to be near life, blessing, and joy. To be far from God is to experience great loss and suffering. In this teaching Pastor Nathan provides an overview of the book of Hebrews with an eye on the presence of God that is only found in Christ.
This week Pastor Nathan continues our study of Hebrews with a New Testament survey. This survey will help provide greater context for understanding our coming study of Hebrews chapter 6.
Pastor Nathan Smith continues in the book of Hebrews and a survey of the Old Testament and it's testimony of who God is for our great blessing.
Pastor Nathan Fox opens up Romans chapter 8 to consider the victory that has been given to us in Christ for all of life's battles.
Spiritual maturity is not a matter of age but of submission to Christ and obedience to His Word. In this teaching Pastor Nathan challenges us to consider our spiritual maturity in light of the book of Hebrews.
"God's will is not just conversion. God's will is maturity." - Pastor Nathan Smith
This Sunday Pastoral Assistant, Isaiah Griffith, shares from Isaiah 55. Join with Isaiah as he opens up the Word of God so that we may see the wonders of this great invitation to know God through His son, Jesus.
Are you intentionally pursuing the deeper things of God? Pastor Nathan continues with Hebrews 5 and the bold admonition for followers of Christ to not be content with the simplicity of milk but to hunger after the more substantial parts of the scriptures.
Jesus is a proven and qualified High Priest. What proves his qualifications for this high office? In today's teaching, Pastor Nathan continues in Hebrews 5 to share the five key elements that proved Jesus' credentials.
In Hebrews 5 we see a picture of Jesus as selfless and humble. This reality is also seen throughout the entirety of the Bible. In today's teaching Pastor Nathan opens in Hebrews 5 and other scriptures to help us grasp the beautiful picture of our humble High Priest.
While many of us may see God has harsh and distant, the Bible reveals our Heavenly Father as gentle and near to the broken. This is teaching, Pastor Nathan unpacks the gentleness of God as seen in Hebrews chapter 5.
The role of priestly mediator is found in Christ yet is also given to those who follow Him. In Christ we are made a royal priesthood with the responsibility to stand in the gap for those around us. Today Pastor Nathan continues in Hebrews 5 and also opens up 1 Peter 2 in order to look at our role as priests.
Today Pastor Nathan opens up Hebrews 5 and shares about the role of Christ our Priest who mediates blessings to His children.
Open to 2 Timothy 3 as Pastor Jeff shares about running the race of faith and the importance of passing the baton to others.
Pastor Nathan continues his teachings from the book of Hebrews with a continued look into chapter 4 and the priestly role of Christ.
The book of Jonah is the raw account of a prophet's struggle in obeying God. Kenyan Pastor, Kenneth Mbugua, helps us understand the story of Jonah and what it means to truly be submitted to Christ.
Today Pastor Nathan discusses the power of God's Word to transform our lives. Used by the Holy Spirit, the Word of God plunges deep into our very life to destroy sin and bring life everlasting. Open up to Hebrews and join Nathan as he considers the life-changing realities of the scriptures.
Pastor Nathan opens up the book of Hebrews so that we can see the reality of Jesus as our Sabbath rest
Hebrews 3:5-19 is a controversial passage, yet should not be avoided because it holds a serious warning to those who experience the warmth of the fire of faith without truly obtaining it. May God prepare our hearts and minds to truly understand this important passage.
Like Moses interceded between the Lord and the people of Israel, Jesus intercedes between His Father and those who have become children of God. What does it mean for Christ to be our intercessor? Join Pastor Nathan as he continues our study of Hebrews and considers the role of Jesus Christ as our intercessor.
The power and work of the resurrection of Christ did not just occur 2000 years ago, but continues today in the hearts and lives of the people of God.
We have a great Harbor Master, Jesus Christ, who is able to guide us through the rough waters of this life and safely into eternity, yet what are His qualifications? How do we know He is truly able to accomplish what He promises? Here is Pastor Nathan with the answer from our study in the book of Hebrews.
In Christ, we are royalty who have been placed above the angels. Pastor Nathan encourages us with this powerful truth from the book of Hebrews.
Pastor Nathan opens up Hebrews chapter 2 with a challenge for us to continue steadfast in the faith by keeping our eyes on Christ.
Today Pastor Nathan opens up Genesis 1 and helps us see the character and nature of God in creation.
Pastor Nathan Fox opens up Psalm 1 to talk about the importance of "delighting in the dig."
Today Dr. Gnanakan takes us through Psalm 62 to consider how David responded to the difficulty of his life and how we can ultimately find peace in Christ.
Speaker: Dr. Nathan Smith
Topic: Today Pastor Nathan revisits Joshua 7 to look deeper at the stark contrast found between the life of Achan and the life of Rahab.
How are we to be imitators of Christ in our lives? Open up the book of Ephesians and join Pastor Nathan as he continues our study.
What does corrupting talk look like and how do we guard against it? What about forums like Facebook and Twitter? Today Pastor Nathan continues to unpack Ephesians to help us understand how to live like Christ.
What does it mean to put off our old self? How do we deal with the temptations and sinful desires that present themselves every day? Pastor Nathan shares about these things and more on today's Lunch with Nathan.
You've heard it said that we are to "speak the truth in love", but what does that mean? Also, what does the unity of the church have to do with experiencing the fullness of Christ? Today Pastor Nathan answers these questions and more by looking deeper at Ephesians 4. Find past episodes and other content from Pastor Nathan at www.watchhbclynchburg.com.
In Ephesians 4, Paul speaks of apostles, prophets, evangelists, shepherds, and teachers. What is the purpose of these roles and how do they impact the church today?
What does it mean to live in the unity of the Spirit? Today Pastor Nathan discusses this crucial part of the Christian life in today's study in Ephesians 4.
What does it mean to "walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called"? Today Pastor Nathan considers this as he continues our study in Ephesians 4.
How are we to live as Christians? The book of Ephesians provides a practical look at our life as Christians and also an incredible encouragement about who we are in Jesus.
Today Pastor Nathan finishes our study in the book of Ruth with a look at the final genealogy listed at the end. Why end this short story with a genealogy? What does that have to do with us? Open to Ruth 4:18 for the conclusion of this wonderful short story.
Ruth and Boaz are married, a son is born, and Naomi is blessed. What do the closing moments of this biblical short story mean for us? Join Pastor Nathan today and tomorrow for the conclusion of Ruth.
Today's study considers the transactions of Boaz at the city gate. Why does he take off his sandal? Why all the purchasing and what does this have to do with Naomi and Ruth. Open up to Ruth 4 and follow with Pastor Nathan.
Today we begin chapter 4 of Ruth and look at the discussion between Boaz and the other potential redeemer. Who will be the final kinsman redeemer? What will happen to Ruth an Naomi? Open up to Ruth 4:1 and follow along.
Ruth has approached Boaz for marriage and redemption and in our study today she heads back to tell Noami. Open your Bible to Ruth 3 and follow along as Pastor Nathan continues our study.
Why would Ruth lay at Boaz's feet? Why does she refer to him as a redeemer? Grab your sandwich and open your Bible for today's lesson from the book of Ruth.
Today we begin chapter 3 and look at the bold plan of Naomi and the beginnings of the love story between Ruth and Boaz.
Today we take a moment to consider what we have learned about God in Ruth and also in the Psalms.
Today Pastor Nathan finishes up Ruth 2 and encourages us about the faithfulness of God as seen in the life of Ruth and Noami.
In Ruth 2, we see Boaz and Ruth eating together as a new relationship forms. What does this mean for this couple and what does their relationship have to do with us today?
Today in our study we look at the first interaction between Boaz and Ruth and how God's graciousness is closer than you think. Open up to Ruth 2 and enjoy another Lunch with Nathan.
In today's study, Boaz comes on the scene with blessed words and questions about the young woman, Ruth, who is gleaning in his field. Open your Bible to Ruth 2 and join Pastor Nathan for another encouraging word from this beautiful story.
Today we continue our study of Ruth and consider God's divine sovereignty over the life of Ruth. Be encouraged, our God is in control.
Ruth and Naomi have both experienced great loss and suffering. How does God enter into this dark time in their life? Join us again for our continued study in the book of Ruth to see how God brings life from the ashes.
Today we hear these famous words, "where you go I will go," from the mouth of Ruth. What is the significance of this bold declaration to Naomi?
In today's study, we see the first mention of the name of God in the book of Ruth. What is the significance of this and how does it help us understand how He deals with His people.
Join Pastor Nathan as he begins a regular study in the book of Ruth. This week provides an introduction to this important, historical short story.