Grace Fellowship Church: Recent Episodes
Closing Thought: The world may tempt us, pressure us, wound us, and even kill us, but it cannot conquer those who have been born of God. Jesus Christ has overcome the world, and everyone united to Him by faith shares in His victory. Therefore, believe in the Son of God, love His children, obey His commands, and remain faithful to the end. We overcome by the blood of the Lamb, by the word of our testimony, and by treasuring Christ above life itself. This is the victory that has overcome the world, our faith.
The only time a Christian fails in evangelism, presuming he or she is so biblically engaged and is motivated by obedience and faithfulness to Christ and love for Christ and people, is when the Christian fails to evangelize. But what is the most effective evangelism method? After more than 20 yyou ears of full-time street evangelism ministry, Tony Miano believes he has finally learned the answer to the question.
Closing Thought: There is a day coming when every one of us will stand before Jesus Christ. For those outside of Christ, it will be a day of righteous judgment. For those in Christ, it will be a day of joyful vindication, because the verdict was secured at the cross. Therefore, do not live in fear. Rest in the perfect love of God displayed in His Son and let that confidence free you to love one another. God's perfected love produces both confidence before Christ and a life that increasingly resembles Christ in how we love the brethren.
Closing Thought: Beloved, the greatest evidence that God has loved you is not merely that you can explain the gospel, but that the gospel is changing the way you love His people. God's love did not stop at the cross; it continues through the lives of those who have been united to Christ. So let the love that came down from heaven flow through you to the brethren. Loved By God, Loving One Another.
controversy over last 12 verses followed by individual command to go forth and make disciples
Three different fools: a rich fool, a group of foolish virgins, and an arrogant fool. Three parables of Jesus about the folly of persuing this world rather then the next.
Are you externally motivated by circumstance or internally motivated by a desire to please God
Closing Thought: Beloved, the main thing is this: Jesus' suffering had great purpose, for in it He triumphed over sin and death and made a way to bring us to God. Because of His suffering, we have been saved by our baptism into Him. Now that we are in Christ, we have been called to be prepared to suffer for doing good, just as Jesus did. Our suffering shapes us to be more like Him and, while it will not save others, it will affirm the Gospel we proclaim and may bring them to salvation.
Closing Thought: As we live faithfully, being zealous for what is good, we will often avoid harm from others. But when we do suffer for the sake of holy living, we are blessed, for Christ our Captain also suffered at the hands of men. So Peter instructs us: do good, fear not, and be ready to give a reasoned defense for the hope within us. And we are to do this with gentleness and reverent fear of Christ, letting our faithful conduct silence and put to shame those who would seek to harm us.
The sermon emphasizes the Christian responsibility to pray for national leaders and the nation, rooted in 1 Timothy 2. It highlights prayer as a central act of worship, encompassing entreaties, petitions, and thanksgiving, particularly for the spread of the gospel and societal tranquility. The message underscores God's desire for all types of people to be saved, emphasizing Jesus Christ as the sole mediator and calling men to lead in public prayer, conducted with humility, unity, and a commitment to God's will, ultimately seeking peace and the advancement of the gospel.
The sermon emphasizes the blessedness of persevering through trials, asserting that enduring hardship with faith leads to spiritual maturity and ultimately, the crown of life. Drawing from passages in James and referencing biblical examples like Peter, the message underscores the importance of rejoicing in God's goodness, submitting to His plan, seeking wisdom through prayer, and boasting in His sufficiency rather than worldly possessions. By focusing on the promised reward—eternal life—believers can maintain hope and steadfastness amidst challenges, recognizing that trials serve to prove the genuineness of their faith and demonstrate God's faithfulness.
The sermon explores the present manifestation of God's wrath upon the nation, rooted in the suppression of truth and the rejection of divine revelation found in creation. Drawing from Romans 1, it defines wrath not as a future judgment alone, but as a current reality evidenced by societal decline, moral corruption, and the embrace of unrighteousness. The message emphasizes the importance of prayer, proclaiming the gospel, preparing for persecution, and persevering in holiness amidst a world increasingly hostile to biblical truth, ultimately offering the hope of salvation through Jesus Christ as a refuge from God's righteous judgment.
The sermon explores the parable of the prodigal son to critique religious pride and celebrate God's boundless mercy, revealing a theological key found in verses one and two. Through the narrative of a rebellious son, a forgiving father, and a resentful older brother, the message highlights the transformative power of repentance, the joy of restoration, and the importance of recognizing one's own sinfulness in contrast to a transactional relationship with God. Ultimately, the sermon calls listeners to embrace God's grace and to avoid the pitfalls of legalism and self-righteousness, emphasizing that true faith leads to a heartfelt response and a life of joyful obedience.
This sermon explores how believers can persevere through trials by responding with faith and trust in God, rather than relying on external circumstances. It emphasizes rejoicing in God's goodness, submitting to His plan, seeking wisdom through prayer, and ultimately, boasting in God's sufficiency regardless of one's economic status. The message encourages both the materially poor and the wealthy to fix their focus on divine grace and eternal hope, recognizing the transient nature of earthly possessions and the enduring promise of a crown of life for those who remain steadfast under trial.
Closing Thought: One of the clearest evidences of true salvation is a sincere and earnest love for fellow believers. This love does not arise from fleeting emotion or mere human affection, but from the truth of the gospel that has purified our souls and the power of the Holy Spirit who now dwells within us. Since we have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and abiding Word of God, we are called to love one another with intensity, sincerity, and sacrifice. A cold or loveless heart is evidence of a soul untouched by grace, but a heart that loves the brethren earnestly reveals a life transformed by Christ
I. The Intermediate State2 Corinthians 5:1-10Philippians 1:21-23Luke 16:22-23II. The Second ComingRevelation 1:12-18Revelation 19:11-16Matthew 24:36-41Acts 1:9-112 Thessalonians 1:7-81 Thessalonians 4:13-5:11Luke 9:23-26Luke 12:8-10Luke 23:30John 5:22-32John 14:1-41 Corinthians 13:8-13III. The Resurrection of the DeadLuke 20:34-361 Corinthians 15:23-24, 43-44, 51-55Colossians 3:41 Thessalonians 4:13-5:11John 5:25-29IV. The Great White Throne JudgementMatthew 10:26-36Matthew 12:33-37Matthew 16:26-27Matthew 25:31-46Acts 10:42Romans 2:3-16Romans 14:10-12Philippians 2:9-111 Corinthians 4:52 Corinthians 11:152 Peter 3:1-13Jude 6-7 Revelation 20:10-15V. The Saints JudgedLuke 14:7-24Luke 22:28-30Romans 8:11 Corinthians 3:10-161 Corinthians 6:1-32 Timothy 4:6-81 Peter 5:4James 2:12-13Revelation 7:9-17Revelation 11:15-19 VI. The Wicked Judged Matthew 7:21-23Matthew 25:11-12Matthew 11:20-24Mark 12:40Luke 13:22-30John 12:44-50VII. The Lake of FireMatthew 13:36-43, 47-50Romans 9:22-24Revelation 20:10-15Matthew 22:13Matthew 24:50-51Matthew 25:30Mark 9:48Luke 3:17Luke 6:20-26Luke 16:19-312 Thessalonians 1:5-12Revelation 14:9-13Revelation 21:8, 27Revelation 22:15VIII. The New Heavens and New EarthMatthew 26:29Luke 6:20-26Luke 22:28-30John 14:1-4Romans 8:18-251 John 3:2Revelation 1:12-18Revelation 2:11, 26-28Revelation 3:4-5, 12, 21Revelation 7:9-17Revelation 14:9-13Revelation 21-22
Closing Thought- We can see that it is useless to try and argue with God by asking -gotcha- questions. We can also see that the end of those who deny Jesus and His Gospel is their destruction. Be warned not to be like these leaders of Judaism, who wanting to keep their life, they lost it. Jesus is the only way into the Kingdom of God, have you-will you believe into Him today--
Closing Thought- Jesus did not come to establish the Kingdom of God on earth, He came to seek and save the lost. And for those He saves, we have business to conduct that will have us to be rewarded when Jesus returns. For those who call Jesus Lord and not do what He says, there will be no reward and probable punishment on that Day. And when the forever King returns to rule those who have not submitted to His Lordship will be destroyed with great intensity by this vengeful King.
Closing Thought- The story of this blind beggar reminds us that Jesus is ready to save anyone who would cry out to Him for mercy, knowing that they are without hope of being saved without the healing power of Jesus of Nazareth. Just as it was for this blind beggar, this moment is urgent for those who still have not confessed Jesus as Lord.
Closing Thought- Jesus told the twelve exactly what was going to happen to Him when they arrived in Jerusalem. Describing to them the eternal plan of God for establishing His Kingdom on earth. They did not believe Him until later. Do you believe-will you believe that Jesus suffered many things for your sake--
Closing Thought- Being saved, inheriting eternal life, entering the Kingdom of God will bring an eternity of no want and perfect relationship. And even now, in this time, anyone who enters into God's family will receive many times more provisions and relationships than they lose by forsaking the things of this world. The rich young ruler did not inherit eternal life because he was tied to his earthly possessions. -For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul--- Have you-will you lose your life and follow Jesus and enter into the Kingdom of God--
Closing Thought- I have a question for everyone listening to me today. Are you sinner-- If so, there is only one way to have those sins atoned for before God, the Person Jesus Christ. Have you believed into Him-- If so, you will be eternally thankful. If not, will you today--
Main Points---1. Spiritual gifts are important--2. There's no such thing as an ungifted Christian--3. Your gifts are not about you- they are about the church--4. You don't pick your gifts- God does--5. God arranges the members of the Body, not us
Closing Thought- The second coming of Jesus will usher in the eternal Kingdom of God. While it will be a great day for His people, it is going to be a day of unthinkable judgment for those who haven't entered into the Kingdom of God via faith in Him as their Lord and Savior. Do not be caught by surprise, loving and clinging to the things of this world, receiving the wrath of God for your sins against Him. REMEMBER LOT'S WIFE-
Closing Thought- God is King, ruling over all His creation -His material and temporal world- with complete sovereignty and authority. God also rules over His spiritual and eternal world, which He rules by recreation, the souls of those that belong to Him eternally via the salvation He provided through His Son. Since the Fall, the temporal kingdom has been in rebellion against its King, led by Satan. and is headed for utter destruction. The Kingdom of God -eternal in its nature- is growing and expanding and will continue that growth until The Lord Jesus returns. The Kingdom of God that Jesus brought to this earth is the eternal Kingdom of God and is not material in its substance and is entered into by faith in Jesus Christ. The Pharisees were wanting their temporal reality to improve with the entrance of a King and His earthly Kingdom that they were part of. Jesus was letting them know that He is the only way to God the Father, His eternal Kingdom, and that He wasn't here to make their temporal reality any better. We must always remember that Jesus did not come to change His material creation, but rather to save the eternal souls of His people, that they would call Him Lord, and rule and reign with Him for all eternity.
Closing Thought- Ten lepers were healed of their incurable disease by the power of Jesus. One knew he was a sinner, who had been shown mercy by God Himself via Jesus of Nazareth. He worshipped the God Who had made him whole, body and soul. Nine of the men simply wanted relief from their temporal malady and cared nothing about their leprous souls. Are you one of the few who will trust in the Messiah for the healing of your incurable disease of sin, or will you trust in Him only for His temporal provision--
Closing Thought- As Christian's, who have been given faith enough to do what Jesus commands, we have a duty to obey said commands. These commands require both ordinary and extraordinary action. When we do obey, we ought not expect any praise for having obeyed, because that is the obvious reaction of a slave to his Master. Even more so, the reaction of the saved to their Savior.
Closing Thought- Jesus was teaching the Apostles that they did have faith and that that faith would empower them to live their lives consistent with His teachings. Beloved, since we too have been given the gift of faith, we know that we can do all that Christ Jesus commands of us. Let us pray that the Spirit of God may cause us to access the faith we've all been given, in order that we might obey and bring glory to God with our surrendered lives.
Closing Thought- Jesus was teaching the Apostles that they did have faith and that that faith would empower them to live their lives consistent with His teachings. Beloved, since we too have been given the gift of faith, we know that we can do all that Christ Jesus commands of us. Let us pray that the Spirit of God may cause us to access the faith we've all been given, in order that we might obey and bring glory to God with our surrendered lives.
God regulates the worship of His name -The Regulative Principle of Worship-. Images of God -Father, Son, or Holy Spirit- are unworthy of Him and degrade, diminish, dishonor, and defame His glory. This includes images of Jesus.
The way of the Lord, salvation from the wrath of -God, is repentance and faith that brings forth good fruit. There is no excuse that will take the axe from the root of the tree other than the Person and work of Christ Jesus. Hell is real, the wrath of God is sure, removal of that wrath is impossible for any person on their own, repentance and faith in Jesus Christ is every person's only hope. This is the Gospel we are to proclaim as there is no other Gospel that can save.
John the Baptist was the fulfillment of the 700-year-old prophecy of Isaiah concerning the lone voice who would herald the coming of God's salvation. He taught of the need for repentance -a change of mind concerning sin and righteousness- leading to salvation. He announced that soon all types of people would see this salvation of God in the flesh. His message was one of understanding one's hopelessness leading to hope.
There is no salvation without repentance. John the Baptist proclaimed the necessity of repentance and so must we. Any Gospel message that does not expose the sinfulness and the need for an alien righteousness is no Gospel at all.
In God's perfect providence, the spirit of the age is attempting to suppress the truth in unrighteousness in extraordinary wicked ways. God has instructed us clearly on how to live and what to expect as walk by faith, contending for souls. Let us be resolved to stand on the side of Truth, no matter the consequences for the cause of King Jesus.
As Jesus was approaching His Bar-Mitzvah -becoming a son of the law-, He already understood He was the Son of God, and He was incarnate for a purpose. That purpose was to be -about the things of His Father- in heaven. Things that are above, not things of this earth, as to what He was to be about. We too Beloved, ought to be imitating Jesus being about our heavenly Father's business, loving and serving Him.
Simeon and Anna, full of faith, were waiting for the salvation of God when Jesus of Nazareth found them. Simeon was then ready to die, and Anna thanked God and pointed her fellow believers to Jesus, the 40-day old son of Joseph and Mary of Nazareth. It is the testimony of those of us with faith that we too are waiting to see this same Savior, Jesus, and while waiting we are pointing others who have faith to him as well. Is this your testimony-
God the Son, Jesus of Nazareth, was born under the Law to parents who were righteous. And so, from the time of His birth to the time of His death He perfectly lived out of the Law of God, that He might be able to save us from the curse of the Law that we too are all born under.
Jesus, truly man and truly God, the anointed one promised from the beginning, has come into the world to save us from our sins. This is good news for all to be received with joy, believed for salvation, and proclaimed to the nations.
The humble birth of the eternal God as He took on flesh so as to redeem His elect is worthy of our celebration and praise all year round. The reality of His condescension is more than we can fully comprehend and appreciate, and yet we can know that it is the manifestation of the love of God for us. Beloved, that is a source of our overwhelming gratitude and inexpressible joy.
Zechariah, filled with the Holy Spirit, praised God that His promised redemption had come. The Davidic Covenant, the Abrahamic Covenant, and the New Covenant all fulfilled by the baby in Mary's womb, heralded by Zechariah's newborn son, John. Future events spoke in past tense because God's promises are that sure. God help our unbelief.
Brethren, let us follow the examples we see in this passage of- rejoicing together over the kindness God shows us, believing god and obeying His commands, and praising Him with our voices for His mighty works in our lives.
Mary is so full of praise and joy toward God for His gift of salvation in the person of her Son Jesus, who is living in her womb, that she bursts out with these words or worship. Brothers and sisters, that we would believe God for His promised salvation in our lives, so that the joyful exaltation toward our Triune god would be heard from our lips by those who are nearby. For those who have not yet feared god and seen your need for salvation, know that God has reached out with His Son, the Son of Mary, to provide mercy and forgiveness for your sins. Humble yourselves and be lifted up with Christ Jesus.
God was very kind to Mary after Gabriel appeared to her, by providing a sister to hurry to see to be edified by. Elizabeth like Zachariah and john, was filled with the Holy Spirit and with that filling she prophesied to Mary a message of hope and assurance. We too, because of God's kindness to us, have brethren filled with the Holy Spirit to go to and hear prophetic words of hope and assurance. May we too believe in the fulfillment of what we have been promised.
The humility and faith of Mary should cause us to marvel at our great God who redeemed woman, by whom the fruit was given to Adam that brought sin to mankind, and now through whose fruit the Son of God will come to redeem mankind. Our triune God is powerful and mighty enough to unite His divine nature to our flesh in the person of Jesus Christ by causing a virgin to conceive by the Holy Spirit. He is a kind and loving Father who encourages us by His own works and calls us to rest our faith on His Omnipotence. Let us respond in obedience to the Word of God that has been revealed to us even when we know not the How, nor the Why, nor the When. Can we respond like Mary- Let us test ourselves in sincerity- Do you have Genuine Faith-
The angel Gabriel tells Mary that she would have a son named Jesus and that her son would be great, the Son of God, and the forever King, the promised Messiah from the line of David. That He would be fully man born of her womb, and fully God, the Son of the Most high. And that this god-Man would be the salvation of god on this earth and the eternal Ruler of God's forever Kingdom.
Mary was an ordinary Jewish woman, from an ordinary town, that God used for an extraordinary purpose. She found favor with God and was used by God to bring His Son into His creation, to bring salvation to His elect people. All glory be to Christ-
Zechariah, who was faithful, doubted what the angel of God had said. god, who is faithful and loved Zechariah, disciplined him for his unbelief. Beloved, let us be spurred on to greater faith and obedience to what He has said, and let us know we are loved by His discipline.
God broke His 400 year silence by sending his angel, the first to come in over 500 years, to announce the birth of John the Baptist to his father Zechariah. John the Baptist was a man set apart by God for the purpose of preparing god's people for the coming of God's salvation, Jesus Christ of Nazareth. Zechariah's son was the greatest man ever born, not because of his holiness, but rather because of the role he was given to point people to Jesus. May we be great in the role given to us to do the same, as God providentially gives us those opportunities to point people to Jesus.
After over 400 years of silence God speaks. During a dark time in Israel, under a wicked king, with a very small remnant of God's people, we see a righteous and blameless couple used by God to birth the herald of the long-awaited Messiah, the Lamb of God, the king of kings, Jesus of Nazareth. the greatest story ever told continues.
God uses all types of people for His purposes for the growth of His Church. Brothers and Sisters, it is my prayer that we would be eager to be used by God for the benefit of his Church as well. And may we too remember Paul's chains.
Beloved, as we begin our journey through the most thorough accounting of the greatest story ever told, may we have our hearts set on growing in our knowledge of, trusting in, and loving God more and more as we go.
It is our Christian duty to be devoted to prayer and to be witnessing to all persons. And, because it matters the way we carry out these duties, God has instructed us in His Word. May we trust in the sufficiency of Christ to instruct us and empower us and grow in holiness and obedience to the glory of God.
The rule in the workplace for a Christian employee, is that they obey their bosses for Christ's sake. And, for the Christian boss to remember they are slaves of Christ, and therefore to treat their workers rightly and justly.
During our time in the Word this morning, we are going to consider the apostle Paul's words to the Church in Corinth, which are found in 2 Corinthians 1-3-4. In doing so, we will consider God as the God of all comfort, how He comforts us in all our afflictions, and how our afflictions prepare us to minister to other afflicted people.
Living out god's design in our homes will differentiate us from the world around us and bring glory to His Holy Name. The reality is that we are not capable of living in these ways in our flesh. However, for Christians, Christ is sufficient to empower the holy living that He commands. Christian wives, husbands, children, and fathers, let us trust in the sufficiency of Christ to live by His rules in our homes.--Christ is also sufficient to bring forgiveness to those who are under the rightful wrath of God due to their sins against Him. Unbelieving fathers, will you believe on Christ right now for the forgiveness of your sins and reconciliation to our vengeful and gracious God-
Living out God's design in our homes will differentiate us from the world around us and bring glory to His Holy Name. While it is true that as Christians, we are not capable of living in these ways in our flesh. However, Christ is sufficient to bring forgiveness to those who are under the rightful wrath of God due to their sins against Him. Unbelieving children and fathers, will you believe on Christ right now for the forgiveness of your sins and reconciliation to our vengeful and gracious God-
Living Out God's design in our homes will differentiate us from the world around us and bring glory to His Holy Name. While it is true we are not capable of living in these ways, Christ is sufficient, the author and perfecter of our faith.
Church Discipline is one of the things that God works together for the good of His people. It is His means of grace in our lives. He uses it to purify His church- to make it holy, as He is holy. He uses it to keep us His. Because of this, we should embrace it -and those who bring it- when it comes to us.
Beloved, we are to be living loving, peaceful, wise lives among each other, giving thanks to God by living in, through, and to our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen and amen-
Everyone is equal at the foot of the cross and is dressed in the same garment, Christ Jesus the Lord.
A young woman had stopped at the gas station along with friends in another car. As her friend pumpted the gas, she walked over to where Tony was standing with his cross and said, -I'm getting gas, but I'm getting prayer, too.- Her name was Watina.--Before Tony could finish communicating the gospel to Watina, her impatient friend convinced her it was time to leave. However, in God's Providence, Watina came back just a few minutes later and the conversation picked up where the two had left off.--By conversation's end, Watina tearfully said there was no reason why she wouldn't repent and believe the gospel.
Worldly, godless constructs such as Critical Race Theory, the Social Justice Movement, neo-Marxism, and Intersectionality have captivated the minds of many rendering them fools as they worship the creature rather than the Creator who is blessed forever.--I highly recommend Voddie Baucham's book, -Fault Lines- The Social Justice Movement and Evangelicalism's Looming Catastrophe,- for a wonderfully understandable and detailed treatment of these current issues.--People around the world, saved and unsaved, are buying into these worldly, anti-intellectual constructs to varying degrees. Yes, sadly, all of the things I've mentioned thus far are infiltrating so-called -evangelical churches- to one degree or another.--I see three primary groups of people who have been captivated by the present zeitgeists-these spirits of the age- the doubting -those who may simply be ignorant and unable to discern truth from error-, the insistent -those seemingly willfully hurling themselves headlong into the flames of falsehood and who need to be snatched from them-, and the immovable -those wholly given over to the zeitgeists and committed to propagating false teachings and worldviews, as well as demanding submission to them-.--Jude's New Testament letter written to unspecified Jewish Christians addresses these three categories of people-all of whom desperately need to hear the gospel and to receive Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior.--While Jude addresses unspecified false teachers-teachings that had already infiltrated the church, I see the text having a wider application to the many false teachings infiltrating the church today -i.e. LGBTQ, CRT, Social Justice, Intersectionality,
Beloved, we must be killing sin, and putting off our old practices. For the glory of God, and for the love of Christ in whom we stand, let us walk in the newness of life.
We are changed by the Gospel. Salvation is not a -get out of jail free- card that we play and go on living as we did before. It starts by changing our thinking and goes on to change every area of our living. Dearly beloved, be constantly seeking and setting your minds on the things above.
As Tony was finishing up a conversation with a lady named Diane, a young girl named Arancha sat on the low retaining wall next to them. Once Tony said goodbye to Diane, he addressed Arancha.--Arancha believed herself to be a Christian because she believed in God and she believed that God helps everyone. As Tony began to communicate the gospel to Arancha, who was maybe 12 years old, her Aunt Grace and her younger sister Mackenna sat down and joined the conversation.--All three ladies heard the gospel and received bibles. In return, Tony received hugs.--Whether 12 years old, 22, 52, or 82, it the same gospel for everyone.--Grace excused herself but soon returned with a bottle of cold water. She told Tony that she recently found a dollar bill in her car and knew she should do something good with it. So, she decided to run into the nearby convenience store and bought Tony the bottle of water.
Diane stopped to talk to Tony while he was crosswalking on the corner of Harrison and Locust, in Davenport, Iowa. She wanted to know if Donald Trump was being used by God. Tony answered by giving a brief explanation of God's sovereignty over the affairs of men, including human governments.--What Diane, a professing Christian, needed more than an answer to her spiritual civics question was contact with another Christian.--Diane began to weep as she described the loneliness she felt as the only Christian in her family.
No sooner had Tony arrived at the corner of Harrison and Locust for an afternoon of crosswalking than Daniel arrived. Disheveled and dirty from a long day of hard work, Daniel wanted information about Tony's church.--Daniel, having arrived in Iowa from California only a few months ago, found himself hanging out with the wrong crowd, drinking heavily, and doing cocaine. He thought -getting back into church- would help him.--As Tony began to explain the truths of the gospel, Daniel interrupted, as if he was going to finish Tony's thought, and said, -You can't get to heaven on faith alone.- Tony assured him that the opposite was true.--This began a short but profitable gospel conversation with a young man who needed Christ.
Brethren, don't allow those who flaunt their humility, and honor beings other than Christ, to disqualify you from running the Christian race. There are many who are looking to the things they can see, their experiences, and their feelings, to guide their self-made religion's actions and obedience. Let us be a body that folds fast to Christ, our head, with confidence, as we maintain a tight bond with one another by which we will receive nourishment from Christ and growth from God.
Do not allow yourself or one another to pass judgement on the brethren concerning the OT laws about food and drink, festivals, new moons, and sabbaths. These are shadows which began from the promised Son and ended with Jesus Christ. Pursue Christ as we see Him fully revealed not forgetting those principals foreshadowed that still serve to instruct and guide us to Christ today.
Melissa walked by while Tony was crosswalking on the corner of Harrison and Locust, in Davenport, Iowa. She lingered at the corner after Tony gave her a gospel tract.--Melissa said she attends a home Bible study in town. This opened a wonderful gospel conversation during which Tony showed Melissa that there is no hope in her efforts to be a good person.
We have been circumcised in Christ, buried with Him in baptism, forgiven due to His sacrifice, and made alive with Him. The victory has been won by Him, His cross was His triumph. We are truly complete in Christ Jesus the lord. And so may we love Him, cling to him, and make much of Him to all the world-
Beloved, we must be on guard as to not be taken captive by the philosophies and bankrupt fraud that men put forth against our Lord. Nor are we to sit by and watch that happen to our children-grandchildren. All truth is contained in Christ Jesus, and any philosophy that seeks to attack or reject Him or His truths, is to be contradicted and rejected for what it is... a lie of Satan, being perpetrated by his minions.
Tony was crosswalking at Davenport intersection called -Five Points- when he turned to see an older woman sitting in her car, in the parking lot. She waved for Tony to come to her car.--Her name was Rhonda.--Rhonda has been a member of a Southern Baptist Church for many years, but she's become disillusioned as of late because she doesn't find the people in the church to be loving.---I want to find an apostolic church,- she explained.--Rhonda proceeded to tell me about the -teachers- who have convinced her she needs to find an apostolic church- Dutch Sheets, Chuck Pierce, and Jesse Duplantis--some of the who's who of the false N.A.R. and the Word of Faith movements.--I opted not to attack her -teachers,- to not lose an opportunity to communicate the gospel to her. As I often do with professing Christians, I took Rhonda through a role-playing scenario. While she said some true things, she did not communicate the gospel to me. We switched roles and I proclaimed the gospel to her.--Rhonda asserted that she agreed with everything I said and that the gospel I shared with her is the gospel she believes.--Giving Rhonda the benefit of the doubt...---Rhonda, at the risk of offending you, can I share some hard truths with you-- I asked.---You won't offend me,- she insisted.---Okay,- I thought. -Here we go.---I proceed to explain to her why her favorite -teachers- are men she should avoid.---I think this is why I was supposed to stop and talk to you today,- Rhonda said.
A spate of shootings in Davenport had Tony once again crosswalking at a crime scene. Two people were shot and wounded at the corner of Locust and Iowa--an area known as being a rough part of town.--A young man stopped for a Bible. He said he was released from prison in February. While incarcerated, he -found Jesus.---Did he-
Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving.
Late at night, on Thursday, May 20, 2021, another shooting occurred in a rough neighborhood, in Davenport, IA. Initial reports in the neighborhood was that one person was killed and several others were wounded. However, when the dust settled, it now appears that one person was shot and wounded. The yet-unidentified man is expected to recover.--This morning Tony set up on the corner of 13th and Gaines, just a stone's throw from where the shooting took place. With cross in hand and with -Free Bibles- and -Stop for Prayer- signs posted along the curb, Tony waved at passing motorists with the hope that someone would stop and talk.--Before getting started, Tony notified people via text and social media, asking them to pray. Mahria prayed. Donnie and Michelle prayed. Karen B, Pat H, Beth C, Cathy A, Amanda C, Alan J, and others prayed.--God answered.--During the three hours Tony stood on the corner, here's a synopsis of what God did---- A couple who recently lost their home in a fire asked for bibles to replace the ones they lost.--- Frederick, a landscaper, asked for bibles for him and his co-worker and asked for prayer.--- Ted stopped for a Bible.--- Ken stopped to thank me for being in the neighborhood and received a gospel tract.---Barbara, who Tony met previously while crosswalking, stopped to encourage Tony and let him know that she had prayed for him this morning before seeing him in the neighborhood.--- A motorist stopped for a couple of bibles.--- Cyleigh, on her way home from her grandfather's deathbed stopped for prayer.--This audio is a compilation of some of Tony's interactions on the corner.
Therefore, as you receieved Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving.
Paul battled in prayer for the saints to have their hearts strengthened, to be united in love, and to be sure they knew Christ. That what they had positionally, they would be living out practically. May we too be living this way and praying this way.
-What would you like to talk about, good sir----Tony was still setting up his signs for an afternoon of crosswalking when he heard the man's voice behind him. The man's name was Jameson--a man who professed to be a 13-year military veteran who returned to civilian life two years ago.--The tragic death of his wife, PTSD, a lost wallet, and finding himself stranded in Davenport, Iowa, had Jameson asking -why- questions of God. Jameson's story and his willingness to stop and talk, allowed Tony to have a meaningful gospel conversation with Jameson, as well as the opportunity to bless Jameson in other ways.
Like Paul, we are all ministers of the Church. We are ministers of the Gospel to the elect. Both to those who are already regenerate -saints-, and to those who are yet to be born from above. To all people we are to be proclaiming the hope of glory, Christ in you-
Christ Jesus died, so that those who are at enmity with God could be reconciled to Him. And, in Him is where our hope lies, and our assurance found.
Jesus Christ is God. He is the Creator and Sustainer of all things, visible and invisible. He is the Head of the Church, and for all eternity, He is the supreme King over all His creation. Every knee will bow, and every tongue confess He is Lord, either now or at Judgement Day. Have you confessed Jesus as Lord- If you have, then love Him and serve Him even more knowing more deeply who He is. If not, today is the day of salvation, believe in your heart and confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord.
Paul makes a habit of praying for the saints who are faithful and bearing fruit. He asks God in a demanding way to cause them to know His will, to live lives that please Him, that they know Him even better, as they are strengthened by His grace to endure their walk with joy, and that they be thankful to Him for His gift of salvation.
Zabeer, a Pakistani young man who attends the local Roman Catholic University stopped to talk to Tony and Allen as they crosswalked on the corner of Marquett and Locust.--Zabeer believed he would stand before God to be judged when he dies.
Tony was crosswalking and engaging in sign evangelism with Allen, Sarah, Eden, and Caleb when they heard the unmistakable sound of screeching tires. Tony looked in the direction of the sound and saw a car almost rearend the car in front of it. The car in front contained two occupants.--A closer look revealed that the two occupants of the car were fighting. The driver jumped out of the car and cried for help. Tony made his way into the intersection, stopped traffic, and directed the driver to follow him into the parking lot, which she did.--Allen called 9-1-1. Tony and Allen separated the two occupants and worked to calm them down as they waited for the police to arrive.--When the dust settled, Kiki -who had been driving the car- was standing alone in the rain. We offered her a ride home. Eden joined us so that another lady would be present.--Kiki claimed to be a Christian.--It was a short drive to Kiki's destination, but not too short to prevent Tony from sharing the gospel with her.--As Tony turned down the street for the house where he would drop-off Kiki, he asked her if she still thought she had put her trust in Christ alone for her salvation.--Listen for Kiki's answer.
Tony and Allen were crosswalking on the corner of 4th and Brady in downtown Davenport, when Kiara happened by with her dog Theo. Kiara professed to be a Christian. By conversation's end, and having given Kiara the benefit of the doubt regarding her profession of faith, Tony encouraged her to love God and love people enough to communicate the gospel to others.
While Tony was crosswalking at the corner of Harrison and Locust, in Davenport -IA-, Jake came by and asked for a free Bible. Jake said he only had a minute to chat. That minute turned into a half-hour conversation about the things of God and the gospel of Jesus Christ.--Jake, who was raised in Lutheranism, described himself as agnostic. By conversation's end, Jake's agnosticism was a thing of the past.
Paul makes a habit of praying for saints who are faithful and bearing fruit. He asks God in a demanding way to cause them to know His will, to live lives that please Him, that they know Him even better, as they are strengthened by His grace to endure their walk with joy, and that they be thankful to Him for His gift of salvation.
On April 1, 2021, officers with the Rock Island Police Department -IL-, while attempting to arrest a suspect trying to flee in a stolen car, had to use deadly force to stop the suspect's attack. Two officers received minor injuries during the incident.--On April 2, Tony stood outside the Rock Island Police Department holding a sign that read- -Law Enforcement Lives Matter -Romans 13-1-5- Acts 10-1-48-.- About an hour into Tony's time there, a man arrived with his own large sign, which read- -Murderers Work Here.---This caught the attention of a local news station -WQAD, an ABC affiliate-. A reporter and cameraman arrived to interview both Tony and the man holding the other sign.--The interview afforded Tony the opportunity to communicate the gospel to the news crew, while expressing support for the law enforcement community.
While crosswalking on the corner of Harrison and Locust, in Davenport, IA, Tony was approached by a woman. We will call her -Jane.---The -bleeps- in this audio represent the times Tony referred to her by her real name.--Jane was very troubled. She believed she was being tormented by -Satan and his minions- and that she was being -gang-stalked- by unknown people.--Jane professed to be a Christian, yet she had not read any of the apostle Paul's letters for 15 years because she did not believe, as a man, he could be trusted.--Jane spent many years in the Roman Catholic Church until she became troubled by the practice of the Mass.--Throughout the half-hour conversation, Tony worked to fill Jane's mind with the truth, communicate the gospel to her, and encourage her to examine herself to see if she was even in the faith.--Not one to find Satan and his demons under every rock, there was a moment during the conversation -9-00-minute mark- when Tony wondered to what extent the forces of darkness were plaguing Jane's mind and were present on the corner of Harrison and Locust. Jane said, -More of these ---- demons are going to come after us because I'm standing here with you.- At about the same time, four men, none of whom were together and coming from different directions, arrived on the corner. It was very unusual for so many pedestrians to be on the corner at one time. The men all seemed -sketchy- to Tony. None of them said a word, but just seemed to stare at Tony and Jane. As quick as they arrived, they were gone.--There is a war raging in the heavenlies. To what extent that was happening while Tony talked to Jane we won't know this side of heaven.
Let us be thankful to God for His work in the saints we know. And may our faith, love, and hope be a cause for others to thank God for His work in and through us. Like Epaphras, let's encourage other saints with the testimonies of the brethren that we know. All to the praise of God's glorious grace that has been poured out through Christ Jesus-
Tony was crosswalking in an area of Davenport, IA, called -Five Points- when Steven pulled into the parking lot and said, -I'll stop and talk to ya----Steven -31- is a pastor's kid. According to Steven, he came to genuine faith in Christ when he hit -rock bottom,- after a divorce.--Tony role-played a witnessing encounter with Steven to given him an opportunity to communicate the gospel. What Steven shared was more akin to Mormonism or Catholicism than the biblical gospel.--The two switched roles, which gave Tony the opportunity to communicate the gospel to Steven. Steven said he believed the gospel he heard from Tony, but had his eyes opened to the reality that what he had shared with Tony wasn't the gospel.
Paul's greeting to the church at Colossae is a gift from God meant to exhort and encourage them in the faith. But not only for them, but for the saints here today as well. To the saints and faithful brothers in Christ as Grace Fellowship Davenport- Grace to you and peace form God our Father.
Tony was crosswalking with his daughter and son-in-law -Michelle and Donnie- when he was approached by Tyler.--Tony had seen Tyler many times over the last couple of years when he would drive by waving, hooting, hollering, and seeming to be engaged in worship in his car. But this would mark the first time they met in-person.--After sharing a Reader's Digest version of a camp experience when Tyler made a profession of faith in Christ, he launched into the subject of reincarnation. When Tony challenged Tyler's views, Tyler insisted that he was Abel -as in Cain and Abel- reincarnate.--Whether Tyler was simply delusional or demon-possessed or both, only God knows. Regardless, Tony tried to communicate truth to Tyler, including the truth of the gospel.
May it be the desire of our hearts that the proclamation of the kingdom of God and the teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ would go forth with all boldness and without hindrance.
In this sermon, Tony presents a biographical sketch of his favorite open-air preacher, Robert Annan of 1860s Dundee, Scotland.
Tony preached this sermon during Liberty Baptist Church's Sunday morning service. In this message, Tony encourages listeners to get in the fight, understand God's purpose for suffering, and expect to be persecuted for your faith.
Following the Evangelism Conference at Liberty Baptist Church, in Norwalk, CA, Tony joined the church family for an afternoon of evangelism in Little India -Artesia, CA-.--This is the open-air message Tony preached that day.
In this fourth of four messages Tony preached during the Liberty Baptist Church Evangelism Conference, in Norwalk, CA, Tony addresses the roles and responsibilities of the local church in public evangelism.--This message is followed by a time of Q-A.
This is the third of four messages Tony preached during the Liberty Baptist Church Evangelism Conference in Norwalk, CA. In this message, Tony addresses the essential elements of a biblical presentation of the gospel.--The message is followed by a time of Q-A.
This is the first of four messages Tony preached during the Liberty Baptist Church Evangelism Conference, in Norwalk, CA. In this message, Tony addresses developing, keeping, and repairing the heart of the evangelist.--This sermon is followed by a time of Q-A.
This is the second of four sermons Tony preached during the Liberty Baptist Church Evangelism Conference, in Norwalk, CA. In this sermon, Tony focuses on the spirit -demeanor- of the evangelist.--This sermon is followed by a time of Q-A.
There are many lessons to learn from Paul's perilous journey from Caesarea to Rome, not the least off which is God's providential care in giving Paul the desires of his heart, and then providentially providing for the fulfillment of those desires. What are the desires of your heart that God has given you that you can believe Him for and actively live toward.
While crosswalkintg on the corner of Harrison and Locust, in Davenport, Iowa, Tony met a man named Jesse. Jesse was walking home from the local chiropractic college. As Jesse approached the corner, he told Tony he appreciated what he was doing. Tony asked him if he worshiped locally. Jesse said he did. When Tony asked what church he attended, Jesse replied, -The Church of Jesus Christ.----Of Latter-Day Saints-- Tony asked.--Jesse hesitantly affirmed what Tony suspected.--What followed was a 40-minute conversation at the end of which Tony called Jesse to repent of his belief in the heresy of -eternal progression.- Tony also tried to assure Jesse that the Jesus in whom he professes faith cannot save him for the same reason his Jesus cannot condemn him. Jesse's Jesus doesn't exist outside of his mind.
God's providential care for Paul in delivering him to Rome is such a great comfort. Beloved, we will make it to our promised destination, heaven, through all the storms of life that may come our way. So, let us serve the One who owns us by proclaiming this same hope to others.
While crosswalking on the corner of Harrison and Locust, Tony was approached by a college student named Jacob. The reason Jacob stopped to talk was because he had recently experienced the loss of a relationship. Jacob hoped that his efforts to be a kind person would merit him something with God. He seemed to hang on every word as Tony communicate the law and the gospel to him. This was the second conversation of the afternoon that left Tony wondering if God saved the person standing in front of him.
While crosswalking at Harrison and Locust, in Davenport, IA, Tony met a college student named Elijah. Elijah saw Tony holding his -Stop and Talk- cross and decided to stop and talk. Elijah admitted he was seeking for something, for someone, but wasn't sure for what or for who. He thought it was probably God. By the end of the conversation, Elijah affirmed he had no reason not to repent and believe the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Tony preached this evangelistic message during Unity Christian School's -Fulton, IL- chapel service. About 50 secondary school students, teachers, and staff gathered in the school's gym to hear the message.--I this message, Tony challenges the students to consider if they are legitimately wearing the armor of God as truly, born-again Christians and, if so, are they boldly wearing that armor as they communicate the gospel to the lost people they know.
God's providential care for Paul in delivering him to Rome is such a great comfort. Beloved, we will make it to our promised destination, heaven, through all the storms of life that may come our way. So, let us serve the One who owns us by proclaiming this same hope to others.
The Apostle Paul stood before Agrippa giving testimony of God's work in his life. With the intention of persuading Agrippa, and all the others present, to become a Christian. Beloved, let's be ready to do the same in front of whoever we may stand before.
God providentially brought Paul before King Agrippa with an opportunity to make a defense of himself. Paul had every reason to fear this examination by men, and yet he did not waver from his calling as Christ's ambassador. When God providentially gives us opportunities to do the same Beloved., I pray we too will be ready.
Brothers and Sisters, let us tell unbelievers of faith in Christ Jesus, of righteousness, self-control, and judgement. Praying and trusting that the Holy Spirit would move, convicting and regenerating His elect. Unrepentant sinners let not the tragedy of Felix's ambivalence be your story and longer. Today is the day of salvation, look to Christ for the forgiveness of your sins and live.