Living Hope Church: Recent Episodes
Pastor Doug McConnell
The sermon explores the profound unity between God the Father and Jesus Christ, using the idiom 'like father, like son' to illustrate their shared nature and purpose. It examines John 14:7-14 to demonstrate that knowing Jesus is equivalent to knowing the Father, affirming Jesus as the incarnate God and the final revelation of divine truth. The preacher contrasts this biblical reality with various cultural examples and opposing religious views to emphasize the necessity of believing in Christ's divinity. Additionally, the message highlights the promise of 'greater works' performed by believers through the Holy Spirit and encourages persistent prayer in Jesus' name. Ultimately, the text calls listeners to trust in Christ alone for salvation and to recognize that true knowledge of God is found exclusively in Him.
This sermon addresses the challenge of presenting exclusive Christian truth in a modern pluralistic and postmodern culture that denies absolute moral standards. The preacher argues that while society embraces relativism to justify personal lifestyles, Jesus Christ uniquely claims to be the only path to God through His identity as the way, the truth, and the life. By contrasting historical shifts from pre-modern to post-modern worldviews, the text highlights how contemporary objections to Christianity stem from a rejection of objective truth rather than logical error. The message emphasizes that believers must proclaim this exclusive claim not out of self-righteousness, but as a necessary response to the reality of sin and the offer of salvation by grace alone. Ultimately, the sermon calls listeners to trust in Christ for eternal life before time runs out.
The sermon addresses the rising rates of depression and loneliness in modern society by offering biblical comfort through Jesus' words in John 14. It identifies three key promises from Christ: calming troubled hearts through faith, preparing eternal dwelling places in heaven, and providing the exclusive way to the Father through Himself. The preacher contrasts contemporary spiritual emptiness with the sufficiency of trusting in Jesus as the ultimate truth and Savior. Emphasizing that true peace comes only from a relationship with God, the message challenges listeners to examine their faith and find hope in Christ's return. Ultimately, it calls believers to rest in these healing words while inviting others to trust in Jesus for salvation.
The sermon explores Jesus' final instructions to his disciples before his crucifixion, emphasizing the glorification of God through the cross and the new commandment to love one another. It contrasts the profound spiritual reality of Christ's sacrifice with human anxiety about leaving, using travel preparation as a metaphor for readiness. The message highlights that true Christian identity is marked by self-sacrificing love rather than mere profession. It warns against self-reliance, illustrated by Peter's failed confidence, and urges believers to place their complete trust in Jesus. Ultimately, the text offers comfort regarding death, assuring believers of eternal union with Christ.
This sermon examines the biblical account of Judas Iscariot's betrayal of Jesus in John 13, using historical examples like Stella Goldschlag to illustrate the profound pain of treachery by trusted associates. The preacher outlines four key elements of the narrative: scriptural prediction, the shocking announcement, the identification of the suspect, and the criminal's departure into darkness. Central theological themes include God's sovereignty in fulfilling prophecy despite human evil, the danger of false profession of faith, and the reality that one can be surrounded by truth yet remain spiritually unconverted. The message serves as a solemn warning against greed and sin, emphasizing that while humans make moral choices accountable to God, His redemptive plan remains secure. Ultimately, the sermon urges listeners to examine their own hearts for genuine faith and to trust in Christ rather than risking eternal tragedy.
This sermon examines the moral trajectory of the United States on its 250th anniversary through the lens of Proverbs 14:34, arguing that national prosperity is inextricably linked to collective righteousness. The preacher contrasts historical cycles of imperial rise and decline with biblical principles, asserting that God judges nations based on their adherence to divine law rather than mere political or economic power. By analyzing contemporary cultural shifts against the Ten Commandments, the text highlights a pervasive moral decay characterized by idolatry, violence, and selfishness. The central message calls for national healing through personal and corporate repentance, echoing Abraham Lincoln's plea for humility before God. Ultimately, the sermon urges the audience to return to biblical faith as the only path to restoring unity and divine favor to the nation.
The sermon explores the practical application of Jesus' command to serve one another, using John 13:12-17 as the primary text. It contrasts worldly power and self-centeredness with the humility demonstrated by Christ washing the disciples' feet. The message emphasizes that true love is not merely a feeling but an active, self-sacrificing deed performed for others. Believers are challenged to adopt this servant attitude, recognizing that serving others brings spiritual blessing and reflects the character of Jesus. Ultimately, the teaching calls Christians to move beyond theory into tangible acts of kindness and support within their community.
This sermon explores the vital role of fathers in family stability and national prosperity, contrasting biblical mandates with modern cultural attacks on patriarchy. Drawing from Malachi 4:5-6, the speaker argues that God intends for fathers to restore relational harmony and provide spiritual leadership. The message outlines three primary responsibilities for men: providing physically, protecting emotionally, and leading spiritually as prophets, priests, and kings within the home. It critiques feminist ideologies and secular trends that undermine male headship, asserting that fatherlessness correlates with significant social and moral decline. Ultimately, the sermon calls fathers to embrace their God-given high calling through diligent teaching, prayer, and steadfast leadership.
In John 13:1–17, Jesus, knowing His hour had come and that He would soon die on the cross, demonstrates His sacrificial love by washing His disciples' feet—a humble act that symbolizes both the cleansing of sin through His blood and the call to selfless service among believers. Though He is the Lord and Creator, He models servant leadership, teaching that true greatness lies not in being served but in serving others, as He has done. The passage reveals that believers are spiritually clean through Christ's sacrifice, yet still need ongoing cleansing from daily sin through repentance, emphasizing that forgiveness is available only through His atoning death. Jesus' command to follow His example is rooted in the truth that discipleship is not measured by status or power, but by humble, sacrificial love. The sermon underscores the urgency of personal repentance and faith in Christ's atonement, while calling believers to live out their faith in practical, loving service to one another.
In these final public words of Jesus, He is portrayed as the divine ambassador from heaven, sent with full authority to reveal the Father, bring light into spiritual darkness, and offer salvation rather than judgment. His identity as the incarnate Son of God is affirmed through His claim that seeing Him is equivalent to seeing the Father, and His mission is defined by His role as the light of the world, calling all to believe so they may escape the blindness and condemnation of sin. Though He came not to judge but to save, His words carry eternal weight, for rejection of His message will result in judgment by the very truth He proclaimed. Jesus' authority is rooted in His perfect alignment with the Father's will, as He speaks only what He has been commanded, making His teachings the ultimate standard for eternal accountability. The urgent call of the sermon is clear: believe in Jesus as the divine Son, the Savior of sinners, and receive the gift of eternal life before it is too late.
The sermon explores the biblical doctrines of judicial hardening and reprobation, affirming that God sovereignly hardens hearts and blinds eyes—not arbitrarily, but as a just response to humanity's pre-existing rebellion and suppression of truth. Drawing from passages in Isaiah, John, Romans, and Acts, it argues that God's hardening is not unjust, but a judicial ratification of human sinfulness, where those already hostile to God are permitted to persist in their unbelief. While some, like Paul, experience temporary hardening followed by divine mercy, others face permanent reprobation, underscoring God's sovereign right to show mercy to some and justice to others without injustice. The preacher emphasizes that these truths, though difficult and often rejected, are foundational to the gospel, revealing God's grace as unearned and sovereign, and calls believers to respond not with anger, but with worship and gratitude for the grace that saves.
The sermon explores the profound mystery of Israel's unbelief in Jesus as the Messiah, drawing from John 12:36–41 to reveal that despite overwhelming evidence through miracles and divine revelation, the nation rejected Christ due to a divine judicial hardening foretold in Isaiah. It contrasts the human tendency to seek signs and explanations with the biblical reality that God's sovereignty and human responsibility coexist, as seen in Isaiah's vision where God intentionally hardened hearts to fulfill judgment. The passage underscores the tragic irony of a people prepared for centuries to receive their Savior yet failing to recognize Him, a failure both foreseen and ordained in Scripture. The sermon calls listeners to reflect on their own hearts, warning against the danger of spiritual blindness and emphasizing that God's hidden purposes are not arbitrary but rooted in His holy justice and redemptive plan. Ultimately, the mystery is not in God's inability to be known, but in the depth of human resistance to His light, which only faith in Christ can overcome.
The sermon centers on the vital spiritual role of mothers in shaping their children's faith, drawing from 2 Timothy 1:3–5 and 3:10–17 to emphasize the enduring impact of godly heritage, particularly through the faith of mothers and grandmothers like Lois and Eunice. It affirms God's design for women as nurturers and caretakers, rooted in creation and Scripture, while confronting modern cultural attacks on traditional gender roles that undermine the sacredness of motherhood. The preacher calls mothers to three essential duties: teaching Scripture from childhood, praying fervently for their children's salvation, and modeling a genuine Christian life, all of which are essential for spiritual formation. Though the primary responsibility lies with parents, the sermon underscores that spiritual transformation is ultimately God's work, accomplished through faithful parenting and the power of the Holy Spirit. The message is both a challenge and a comfort, urging mothers to persevere in their calling with hope, knowing that their faithfulness can lead generations to Christ.
Jesus, in John 12:35–36, urgently calls His listeners to walk in the light while it is still available, emphasizing that the time for response is fleeting and that spiritual darkness inevitably overtakes those who fail to embrace the truth. Drawing from the creation account and the metaphor of light as truth, moral purity, and divine revelation, He presents Himself as the true light of the world, urging belief in Him as the only means of becoming children of light and escaping eternal darkness. The sermon underscores the peril of spiritual complacency, illustrating how neglecting the light—through apathy, distraction, or unbelief—leads to moral confusion and eternal separation, while faithful engagement with Scripture and Christ's revelation results in transformation, moral clarity, and eternal hope. It concludes with a call to action: to actively pursue the light now, for the day of salvation is not guaranteed, and the future of every soul depends on whether they walk in the light or drift into darkness.
In this powerful sermon, Jesus declares a pivotal crisis moment in history, where divine judgment has begun and the ruler of this world—Satan—will be cast out through His impending crucifixion, transforming the cross from a symbol of shame into the ultimate instrument of salvation. The sermon highlights the dual nature of crisis: danger for those who reject Christ, yet profound opportunity for all who respond in faith, as the cross draws people from every nation to Himself through the foolishness of God's wisdom. The crowd's perplexity—struggling to reconcile Jesus' death with the Messiah's eternal reign—reveals the tension between Old Testament expectations of a conquering king and the reality of a suffering servant, fulfilled in Christ's sacrifice. Ultimately, the message calls listeners to recognize the present moment of grace, urging immediate faith before the window of mercy closes, for today is the day of salvation.
The resurrection of Jesus, as revealed in Luke 24:36–49, is presented not merely as a historical event but as a transformative encounter that demands faith and action. Through physical evidence—his wounds, his ability to eat, and his bodily presence—Jesus dispels fear and doubt, affirming his identity as the risen Lord and validating the Old Testament prophecies that foretold his suffering, death, and resurrection. The sermon emphasizes that these prophecies, spanning the Law, the Prophets, and the Psalms, collectively point to Christ's divine mission, demonstrating that his resurrection was not an accident but the fulfillment of God's eternal plan. Having been given divine understanding, the disciples are commissioned to proclaim repentance and forgiveness of sins in Jesus' name to all nations, beginning in Jerusalem, thus fulfilling the Great Commission. The message calls believers today to recognize the compelling reality of the resurrection, embrace their role as witnesses, and boldly share the gospel with confidence, knowing that the same power that raised Christ now empowers the Church to carry out its mission.
The sermon presents Peter's Pentecost sermon as a model of bold, truth-centered proclamation, rooted in Scripture and empowered by the Holy Spirit. It centers on the resurrection of Jesus, demonstrating through Old Testament prophecy—particularly Psalm 16 and Psalm 110—that Jesus' death and resurrection were divinely ordained, not accidental, and fulfill God's eternal plan. Peter confronts his audience with the dual reality of divine sovereignty and human responsibility, declaring that Jesus, whom they crucified, is both Lord and Christ, the exalted Messiah. The message is both convicting and hopeful: it pierces hearts with the weight of sin and guilt, yet offers forgiveness and the gift of the Holy Spirit through repentance and faith. Ultimately, the sermon calls all people to recognize Jesus as the risen Savior and to respond with urgent faith, emphasizing that the gospel is the only message capable of saving souls.
In John 12:20–26, Jesus declares that 'the hour has come' for His glorification, marking the pivotal moment when His impending death on the cross becomes the necessary means of salvation and spiritual fruitfulness. Drawing a powerful analogy from the life cycle of a grain of wheat, Jesus teaches that true life and lasting impact come only through self-sacrifice and death to the flesh, a principle that applies not only to His own mission but to every follower who must 'lose' their life in this world to gain eternal life. The sermon emphasizes that while the world seeks entertainment, self-fulfillment, or temporary pleasures, the Christian calling is to prioritize Christ above all, embracing a life of discipleship, suffering, and service that mirrors His path. This journey, though marked by trials and the cost of renouncing worldly values, leads to true joy, divine honor, and eternal reward, as Jesus promises that those who follow Him will be with Him where He is, and the Father will honor them.
The sermon centers on Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday, presenting a profound reflection on the nature of kingship, messianic expectation, and personal faith. Drawing from John's Gospel, it highlights the crowd's enthusiastic acclamation of Jesus as the Messiah and King, rooted in Old Testament prophecy and the hope for national deliverance, yet underscores the deeper spiritual reality that Jesus came not as a political liberator but as the sacrificial Lamb of God to atone for sin. The sermon emphasizes the irony of the religious leaders' rejection of Jesus, revealing their spiritual blindness and fulfilling divine prophecy, while affirming that true faith involves recognizing Jesus as both Savior and King. Through the testimony of those who witnessed miracles like Lazarus's resurrection, the sermon calls believers to bear witness to Christ's transformative power, and ultimately challenges listeners to examine their own hearts, asking whether they have truly welcomed Jesus as Lord and Savior, with the promise that one day all will acknowledge Him in truth.
The sermon centers on the profound spiritual significance of Mary's anointing of Jesus in Bethany, a moment rich with theological depth and personal application. Through the contrasting responses of Martha, Lazarus, Mary, Judas, and the religious leaders, the narrative reveals the true nature of worship, sacrifice, and faith—highlighting how genuine devotion honors Christ above all else. Martha's diligent service, Lazarus's resurrection as a testimony to God's power, and Mary's extravagant offering of costly perfume exemplify different forms of faithful response, while Judas's hypocrisy exposes the danger of misplaced priorities and hidden greed. Jesus' affirmation of Mary's act as a preparation for His burial underscores the fleeting nature of His earthly presence and the eternal value of worship offered in love. Ultimately, the story calls believers to examine their own hearts, to serve with humility, to rejoice in resurrection, and to offer their lives as a fragrant sacrifice to God, knowing that true honor comes not from human acclaim but from divine approval.
The passage reveals the religious leaders' growing fear and hostility toward Jesus, not because of His moral failings, but because His miracles and growing influence threatened their authority and the status quo, leading them to conspire against Him. Though their motives were rooted in self-preservation and political expediency, God sovereignly used even their evil intentions—particularly Caiaphas's call for one man to die for the nation—to fulfill His redemptive plan: the atoning death of Jesus as the Passover Lamb, who would gather all God's scattered children into one people. The narrative underscores the irony that while the leaders sought to eliminate Jesus, their actions unwittingly advanced the very salvation they opposed, demonstrating that God's purposes transcend human conspiracy and political manipulation. Ultimately, the text calls believers to trust in Christ alone, not in the shifting schemes of men, for He is the true sanctuary and the only source of eternal life.
The sermon centers on Jesus' miraculous raising of Lazarus from the dead, presenting it as a definitive demonstration of His divine authority over life and death, fulfilling His claim to be the resurrection and the life. Through a narrative analysis of John 11:38–46, the preacher emphasizes the boldness of Jesus' command, the significance of His prayer of thanksgiving for public affirmation, and the awe-inspiring nature of the resurrection as a sign of God's glory. The message confronts skepticism—particularly from Enlightenment thinkers like Hume and theologians like William Barclay—by affirming the historical reality of the miracle and challenging unbelief rooted in pride and resistance to divine authority. Ultimately, the sermon calls listeners to personal faith, warning that all humanity will one day stand before Christ at the final resurrection, with eternal destiny determined by one's response to Him, urging repentance and trust in Jesus as the only source of true life.
Can a Christian lose his salvation? If not, what do we do with all the passages warning believers not to fall away? In this sermon we consider Jesus' words of promise which touch on this issue.
This was the message given at the funeral of Jeff McConnell Pastor Doug's brother. The sermon presents a powerful, pastoral exploration of the gospel message through the lens of personal loss and divine truth, using the story of a dying man's journey to illustrate the necessity of confronting the bad news of human sin before embracing the good news of salvation in Christ. It begins with a sobering examination of humanity's fallen condition, rooted in Adam and Eve's rebellion, emphasizing that all people are guilty before God due to sin in thought, word, and deed, and that no amount of good works can atone for this guilt. The central message then unfolds with the joyful proclamation that Jesus, the sinless Son of God, lived a perfect life, died as a substitute on the cross, and offers His righteousness as a free gift to all who repent, believe, and trust in Him alone. The sermon underscores that true faith involves not just intellectual agreement but personal surrender—acknowledging one's sin, believing in Christ's atoning death and resurrection, and committing to Him as Savior. It concludes with a solemn yet hopeful call to choose eternal life through faith in Jesus, contrasting the final moments of a defiant dictator with a believer's peaceful departure, and urging every listener to prepare for eternity by receiving the gospel as the only true hope for salvation.
The sermon, titled 'How the Dragon Almost Stole Christmas,' uses Revelation 12 to reveal the cosmic conflict between God's redemptive plan and Satan's relentless opposition, centered on the birth of Christ. The woman symbolizes Israel, portrayed as a nation in labor, enduring millennia of suffering and persecution as Satan, depicted as a great red dragon, seeks to destroy the Messiah at every turn. Despite relentless attacks—from Cain to Herod, from Pharaoh to Hitler—Christ's birth, crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension fulfill God's promise, defeating death and securing salvation. The sermon emphasizes that Israel's enduring existence and the persistence of anti-Semitism are not coincidental but part of a divine drama in which God remains faithful to His covenant, and the ultimate fulfillment of His promises to both Israel and the Church is certain. The message concludes with a call to trust in God's unwavering faithfulness, knowing that no power—human or demonic—can thwart His eternal plan.
The sermon centers on the transformative encounter between Jesus and a man born blind, highlighting the contrast between spiritual sight and spiritual blindness. After being excommunicated by the religious leaders for confessing Jesus as the Son of Man, the man is found by Jesus, who reveals Himself as the Messiah, leading the man to faith and worship—a profound moment of spiritual revelation. In contrast, the Pharisees, despite their claim to see, are condemned for their pride and refusal to acknowledge their spiritual blindness, illustrating that true salvation comes only through humble recognition of one's need for Christ. The passage underscores that Jesus came not to condemn but to reveal, offering sight to the blind and exposing the blindness of those who insist they see. Ultimately, the sermon calls listeners to examine their own spiritual condition, urging them to repent, receive Christ's healing, and worship Him as Lord, for only through His grace can true sight be restored.
The sermon centers on the transformative encounter of a man born blind who gains sight through Jesus, highlighting the contrast between physical and spiritual blindness. Through the man's testimony—'I was blind, but now I see'—the narrative reveals the nature of unbelief as not merely ignorance but active resistance to truth, rooted in pride and fear of losing status. The religious leaders, despite witnessing a miracle, reject Jesus due to their rigid adherence to tradition and fear of social ostracism, ultimately expelling the healed man, who becomes a symbol of genuine faith. The sermon underscores God's sovereign use of the humble and marginalized to expose the spiritual blindness of the self-righteous, affirming that true sight comes not from human wisdom but from divine revelation. Ultimately, it calls listeners to recognize their own spiritual condition and embrace the grace of Christ, echoing the enduring truth that salvation is not earned but received through faith in a great Savior.
In this powerful passage from John 8, Jesus confronts the religious leaders' slander and spiritual blindness with a series of profound claims that reveal His divine identity. He refutes their accusations of being a Samaritan and demon-possessed by affirming His perfect obedience to the Father and His role as the one who will judge all humanity. Jesus then makes a stunning promise: those who keep His word will never experience the second death, pointing to eternal life through faith in Him. When the Jews, unable to comprehend His claim, challenge His authority by referencing Abraham's death, Jesus responds with the ultimate declaration—'Before Abraham was born, I am'—echoing God's self-revelation to Moses and asserting His preexistence and divine nature. This claim, which the Jews recognized as blasphemy, provokes their violent reaction, yet Jesus remains in control, withdrawing from the temple. The sermon underscores that Jesus is not merely a historical figure or a moral teacher, but the eternal I AM, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and the only one who can bridge the chasm between humanity and God, demanding a response of faith that transforms both life and death.
In this powerful exposition of John 8:21–34, the central message is that Jesus, the divine Son of God, is an alien from above—distinct from the world, sent from heaven to reveal the Father and offer salvation. The passage confronts the religious leaders with their spiritual blindness, emphasizing that without faith in Jesus as the divine 'I am,' they will die in their sins, both in the singular sense of rejecting the Messiah and in the plural sense of facing judgment for every transgression. Through vivid illustrations—from UFO culture to the crucifixion's cosmic significance—the sermon underscores that Jesus' identity as the incarnate Son of God, sent by the Father and united with Him in purpose and power, is the only way to eternal life. The call is urgent and personal: to recognize Jesus not as a mere teacher or prophet, but as the divine Savior whose crucifixion reveals His true nature, and to respond in faith before it is too late.
All of us had a father whether he was present in our lives or absent, loving or harsh, good or bad. But even the best father falls short of our heavenly Father. In this sermon, we consider three different attributes of God and how they are blessings to us and uphold us as the children of God.
What happens after we die? Do we cease to exist? Come back in some other form? Turn into angels? In this sermon we shine the light of Biblical truth on this weighty and sobering topic.
All Evangelicals affirm that we are justified by faith and faith alone. But does that mean that obedience in the life of the Christian is optional? We should obey Christ, but if we won't and don't will still go to heaven go to heaven? In this sermon we consider the connection between faith and obedience in the Chrisitan life.
We are justified by faith and faith alone. buit how do we know that are faith is geniune saving faith? Is it possible to "believe" but not have that belief lead to salvation? In this sermon we explore the nature of true faith.
Jesus cleansed the temple by driving out the animals and money changers. That was a shocking act, but did it indicate that he was a radical political revolutionary? In this excursus from John's gospel we are contrasting the "Jesus" presented by those who would co-opt him for their own purposes with the real Jesus, the one John presents in his gospel.
The bible prophesies of a coming world leader empowered by Satan who will deceive the world and bring in a reign of terror. The world will ask: "Who can wage war against the beast?" The answer is Jesus the returning King of kings and Lord or lords.
The Bible lays out terrifying prophecies regarding the end times before Jesus returns. But whatever the chaos of those days, God is still in control, sovereign over the events of history. This is the confidence and comfort of Christ's followers. In this section of Revelation John is brought up into the throne room of God where he hears the heavenly host praise God as Creator, and Christ as Redeemer.
Jesus said that right before his return many would fall away from the faith. Paul said that before the coming of the Lord there will be a great apostasy. Here in week 3 of the End-times seminar we look at this coming defection from the Christian faith and some present-day evidence in the church that this process is already under way.
Henry Ford said -History is bunk.- He was wrong. History has meaning and significance because it is the canvas on which God paints the drama of redemption. In this session we look at Nebuchadnezzar's dream where God revealed to him the kingdoms to come and the Kingdom of Christ which shall bring all others to an end. We will also contrast a Christian view of history with that of pagan and secular understandings of history.
Jesus' disciples ask about the time of his return and the signs that will accompany it.
Paul's arrival in Jerusalem brought consternation for the Jewish believers there. Because it was widely believed that through his teaching he was actually undermining the Judaism, James and the elders in the city asked Paul to engage in some very -Jewish- acts to make it clear that Paul himself was a Torah observant Jew. Were these leaders right to ask Paul to do this-- Was Paul right to agree--
Paul felt compelled to go to Jerusalem but was that conviction from the Spirit or just his own desires-- He was warned again and again that going there would end in his arrest. Were Paul's friends right in trying to dissuade him-- Was Paul right or wrong in going to the city-- What relevance does this passage have in determining the will of God for our lives--
In Miletus Paul challenges the elders of Ephesus to faithfully discharged their duty of shepherding the flock of Christ.
God has not called us to be -successful- but faithful. In this part of Acts Paul defends his ministry among the Christians in Ephesus.
Many unbelievers simply ignore the truth of Christianity. But what happens when the preaching of the gospel threatens the financial interests and the political agenda of the elite-- The reaction is sometimes swift and even violent. In this story we see that a riot broke out instigated by those upset that many were abandoning their idolatry after coming to faith in Christ.
There is a growing fascination in the Western world with the occult- astrology, fortune-telling, the power of crystals. Go to any bookstore and see how many books deal with magic and witchcraft. Rather than harmless pastimes, these practices open people up to the demonic. In this portion of the book of Acts, we see the reality of the occult and the power of God over the forces of evil.
The grace of God through Christ came to the Jews and then to the Samaritans. Now, to the shock and surprise of the church, grace was extended even to Gentiles.
The first followers of Jesus were all Jewish. They believed that Gentiles could be saved but only by first becoming Jews. But with the conversion of Cornelius and his household God made it clear that Gentiles as Gentiles also were welcome through faith in Christ.
In the Old Testament the division between Jew and Gentile was sharp but God's intent for the church was for Jews and Gentiles to be one in Christ. To begin the process of making them one God gave both Peter and Cornelius visions that led to the conversion of Cornelius, his family and his friends.
Peter follows Jesus example in healing a bed-ridden man and raising a woman from the dead. As a result many to faith.
Paul's life was radically transformed very suddenly. --Has your life been transformed by Christ--
Ananias played a smaller role in the story of the Church, but an important one. Every Christian plays a role in the story of the Church.
Knowing Jesus, who he is, and what he's done for us, makes us free. --Knowing Jesus, who he is, and what he's done for us, keeps us free.
Unfortunately, church history has not been without scandal. What can we learn from this first example--
The results of Peter's sermon make it more powerful and more impactful than any speech given by man since.
Peter closes his letter to the churches in Asia Minor with instructions. --1. The Christians Instructions--2. The Christians Exhortations
Few of us will ever give a sermon in a formal service setting. However, every time we witness to someone we know, every time we deliver the Gospel, we are preaching a sermon. --What can we learn from Peter's first sermon--
The Coming of the Holy Spirit is one of the most important events in history, second only to the coming of Christ.
John the Baptist was called for the purpose of preparing the people's hearts for the arrival of the son of God on Earth.
- A Godly Couple-2. A Ministering Priest-3. The Angel's Message-4. Zacharias' Unbelief-5. God's Faithfulness
God promises that despite their sin, he will never ultimately and utterly forsake the Jews. --In the end, he will save them and deal with Israel's enemies.
How will God keep his promises to Israel----What will he do when they turn back to him--
What is the nature of true repentance----What are the incentives for true repentance----What are the results of true repentance--
The Cross divides men.-The Cross destroys human wisdom.-The Cross displays God's Wisdom.-The Cross removes all human boasting.
Do you believe Satan is real----Does it matter----What is his origin----What is his goal----What is his destiny--
One purpose of God's church is to do the work of his kingdom here on earth. Everyone in the church has a role. --What is your part--
Who was Phoebe----What role did she play in her church----What role are women supposed to play in the church--
God's work must be done in God's way, by God's power, which comes to the Christian in answer to prayer.
When a person becomes a Believer, there are three conversions that take place---The conversion of the heart. --The conversion of the head. --The conversion of the hip pocket.
Paul risked much and endured much to spread the gospel.--What are you willing to risk----What are you willing to endure--
Christians have been freed from the Law of Moses. --But how are we to exercise that freedom- Are there no limits-
What issues are worth defending to the point of splitting a church---What issues aren't worth division and conflict---How do we know the difference-
Why should Christians obey their government---When is it biblical to disobey government-
Christians are called to love those who wrong them rather than seek revenge. --Does this mean Christians should not defend themselves- What is meant by this passage-
In this passage, Paul calls us to unite with other Christians that we interact with by showing mutual concern, by having a common mindset, and by demonstrating genuine humility.
In a world that is increasingly hostile toward God and his people, how are Christians called to help one another endure until the end-
What member of the Body of Christ are you---In other words, what spiritual gifts has God granted you, and how are you putting them to use to serve him and his Church-
The moment a person is born again they become a new creature. --That person then begins a lifelong process of transformation, becoming more like Christ as their mind is renewed. --How is the mind of believers renewed during this process----Spoiler- Read your Bible--
What does it mean to conform to the world around you---Should the Christian be conformed to the World---Or should the Christian be transformed-
How are we as Gentile Christians supposed to view Jews today---Why did God alternate the outpouring of his mercy on the Jews, then the Gentiles and one day back to the Jews---How are we supposed to respond to this demonstration of God's mercy-
Paul tells us here, that Israel will be saved be their deliverer Jesus Christ. --But how does that actually unfold---Look at how Old Testament prophecy describes this event.
What does Paul mean when he says Israel has been partially hardened---What is the Fullness of the Gentiles---What does he mean when he says that all Israel will be saved-
Why were the Jews cut off from God's favor---Did gentiles replace them---Were they cut off forever-
Unbelievers may be physically alive, but they are spiritually dead. --This is true for Gentiles and Jews alike. However all can be made alive through the Gospel of the Living Christ. --One day, what is true for the Jews on the individual level will also be true on the National level.
What is the relationship between modern Christians and Jews---How are we called to interact with them-
What blessings await the World during Israel's Golden Age to come---What will the world look like when Jesus returns to Reign-
It's clear that our nation is in a state of apostasy. --Is there no hope for us then- Is there nothing that can be done-
Israel has rejected their Messiah, and so they are under judgement and rejected by God. --Are they rejected forever- Or is there a comeback in their future-
God has not rejected his people. He has always maintained a faithful remnant chosen in his sovereign grace.
The Gospel has the power to change lives. However it must be heard in order to have an impact. --If it must be heard, it must be proclaimed. Who's job is that-
It is true that God elects who will ultimately be saved. All of the Elect will be saved, and only the Elect will be saved. However, nobody knows who the Elect are. --Is the Gospel message for anyone- Is there anyone who is undeserving, or not ready to hear the Gospel and respond---Is the Gospel message only for the Elect-
Which is worse---Shame suffered in this life as a result of standing for Christ, or standing before Christ in shame on Judgement Day-
Righteousness is required to spend eternity with God. --The religions of the World generally agree that this is the case, though it may be worded differently. --Christianity disagrees with every other religion on one critical point- How is this righteousness acquired-
Righteousness is required to spend eternity with God. --The religions of the World generally agree that this is the case, though it may be worded differently. --Christianity disagrees with every other religion on one critical point- How is this righteousness acquired-
Are the Jews the only ones who have tripped on the stumbling stone that is Jesus Christ-
Jesus has not fulfilled all of the prophecies about the Messiah that we find in the Old Testament. --Is Jesus a failed Messiah-
How did the Gentiles attain the righteousness that the Jews had sought for centuries- Why did the Jews fail---Why does it matter-
The fact that the Jewish people still exist at all is evidence for a God who has a plan or them.--How do we reconcile that with the fact that the overwhelming majority of ethnic Jews have not accepted God's son Jesus as their messiah and become Christians- Have God's plans and promises failed-
So few Jewish people have accepted the Gospel and become part of God's church. Has God failed to keep any of his promises to them-
What is the purpose of the Gospel preached from God's word---Is it meant to enlighten everyone- Is it meant to soften every heart and open every mind---What does God's word teach about understanding God's word-
What can the modern church learn from the revival that took place under the reign of King Josiah-
Just as God chooses those who he will save into eternal life before they have ever taken breath, so he chooses who will be judged forever. --How is God glorified by this truth-
Does what we believe about how God saves people determine how we go about doing evangelism-
The biblical truth that offends more people than any other is the doctrine of Election. --Many who sit in churches have not even heard of it, because many churches do not study Gods word in depth. --Still, many of those who have studied scripture still find Election to be heretical and even an insult to the character of God. --Is it-
Does God love everybody equally---Does God love people unconditionally---Does God hate the sin but love the sinner-
If Jesus is who he claims to be, he cannot be ignored. --If Jesus rose from the dead, what are the consequences---Have you encountered the Living Christ-
There is strong disagreement among Christians about the meaning of this text. --Are we simply not reading it carefully---Are we not thinking clearly---Or are we refusing to accept the truth-
Paul teaches us that Jews will not be saved simply because they are Jews. They must come to the Kingdom of God through the Cross just as gentiles must. --How is this reconciled with God's promises to Israel- Could it be that God has failed them-
Do Christians feel compassion for the unsaved- Do our hearts break for those we love and care about, whom are headed for an eternity apart from God-
Romans 8-28 is loaded with truth which is sometimes controversial and difficult to comprehend. --In these following verses, Paul begins to unpack 8-28 and explain it. --Specifically Paul begins to answer the question- How can we be so sure that all things will work out for good for those he calls-
Why do good things happen to good people---Why do bad things happen at all- Don't we have an all powerful all loving God---How do we reconcile the fact that evil exists, when God has the power to abolish evil-
This passage is loaded with truth. It is encouraging, but also challenging and even controversial. --If God works everything out for the good of his people, he must be in control of all things. If that is so, how do we explain evil and suffering-
Can a believer know God's will- --How do we know what God wants us to do in the very specific circumstances that come up in our lives-
Some believe that the power of human beings to accomplish anything they desire is only limited by their imagination. In other words, our limitations exist only in our minds and we can do anything if we just envision it. --In truth, the power of human beings is limited. However, God's power is supreme. How is God's limitless power accessed by those he loves and has called-
What happens to our bodies when Christ returns---Scripture tells us that both the believer and unbeliever are resurrected, though for different purposes and to different destinations. --What will that look like- Are we given new bodies or are our old bodies restored. How will those bodies be different than the ones we live in today-
-Joy to the World- may be the most well know and most popular Christmas hymn. Only, it's not about Christmas. It's not about Christ's first coming to Earth, but his second. --Why should we be so joyful at his second coming- What is it that Christians expect to happen that day and in the days to follow-
No one can predict what will happen tomorrow. We are not in control. Only God knows and dictates what the future holds. --Does that mean it is wrong to plan for the future- Why does James seemingly chastise those who do in these passages-
Humans naturally want to avoid pain and suffering. --Should the Christian have a different view---Is pain and suffering a requirement of salvation-
What is the nature of the relationship between Christian and God---What does it mean that Christians are called -Children of God--
The Christian is at war. --We are at war with evil in the world, in our flesh and with Satan himself. --There is no substitute for victory. How does God equip us to fight and win-
God gave every person life. Scripture is clear on this, and it is evident to everyone who ponders the question of our origin, whether they admit it or not. --These passages talk about life in a different sense. Paul speaks of a life that is given through the Spirit of God. What is the difference between the life that every person is granted, and the life that only God's chosen believers receive-
Paul describes for us in this passage the differences that can be observed between and individual that is born of the flesh versus one who is born of the Spirit.--Which one are you- Why does it matter-
Christ has liberated the Christian in regards to sin. Does this mean we are free to sin- Scripture clearly says this is not the case. --The Christian is freed from sins power, this means the Christian can, must and will resist sin.
Who is Paul describing in these passages- A Hebrew of Hebrews- Or is he describing the life of every believing Christian-
Who is speaking in these passages---The answer may seem obvious at first, obviously the inspired author of these passages is the Apostle Paul. --However, like all Christians, Paul lived two lives on Earth. There is the unregenerate Paul, the Jewish Zealot who kept the Mosaic Law better than any other man but still failed to attain righteousness. There is the Paul who was born into new life in Christ, inhabited by the Holy Spirit and empowered to live life free from the influence of Sin. --So which one is speaking here- The answer has serious implications for Christians today.
Scripture teaches us that the Mosaic law cannot save us from the guilt of our sins. In fact, the purpose of the law is to highlight our guilt. --Does that make the law a bad thing-
There is a fascinating connection between marriage and the trinity. The relationship between the Father, Son and Holy spirit is pictured in the human family as God designed it. This often discussed by Pastors and Bible scholars. --Did you know that divorce is a picture of the Gospel- More specifically, divorce and remarriage is an illustration of the relationship between the Christian, the Law and Christ.
Most people don't know it, but we are all slaves. We are either slaves to God or slaves to the enemy Satan. --So everyone must ask themselves- Am I a slave to obedience or to sin-
Does Gods grace allow us to keep sinning---Careful study of the scriptures makes it clear- The believer should not, must not, cannot and will not continue in sin. --Why not-
In the Declaration of Independence our country's founding fathers declared that the Kingdom of Great Britain would no longer dominate our new nation. --When Christians put their trust in Christ and are born again, we effectively declare our independence from sin. Sin is still a powerful influence in the world and remains a danger to the Christian. However, if sin is dominant in the life of the believer it is not because they are powerless to resist, but because they allow sin to rule them. --The Christian is free from the slavery of sin, but the fight is not over.
In these passages, Luke chronicles Jesus' parable of the sower.--In this parable, Jesus gives us a picture of the four ways that a person can respond to his gospel. The seed is the Gospel, and the soil is your heart. --How have you, or how will you respond to the Gospel- Which soil represents your heart-
Jesus is like an old west bounty hunter. Unlike bounty hunters, Jesus seeks to bring back lawbreakers dead AND alive. --In what sense is the Christian dead, and in what sense is he made alive-
Are you a slave---Most of us would answer no, believing that because we are not in physical bondage under man that we are free. --Only the Christian can truly say no, for until we are freed by Christ we are slaves to Sin. The new life that is promised to the believer can only begin when we get out of the prison of Sin.
The Apostle Paul tells us in the book of Romans that our old self was crucified with Christ. He says we died with Christ, and now have new lives in his resurrection where we are no longer slaves to sin. --But what does mean- Does the Christian never sin again- What does this new life in Christ look like-
Scripture is clear that Christ has won his people their freedom from Sin. What shall we do with this freedom---God is glorified in the forgiveness of sins, does that mean our sin is a good thing- Should we then continue to sin because we are now forgiven- Should we even increase our sin to increase Gods glory-
Why did God give the Law- --We cannot be saved by the Law of Moses. Only by Gods grace and the work of Christ may we enter the Kingdom of God.--So what is the purpose of the Law-
12 Therefore, just as through one man sin entered into the world, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men, because all sinned-- 13 for until the Law sin was in the world, but sin is not imputed when there is no law.- 14 Nevertheless death reigned from Adam until Moses, even over those who had not sinned in the likeness of the offense of Adam, who is a type of Him who was to come.
14 Nevertheless death reigned from Adam until Moses, even over those who had not sinned in the likeness of the offense of Adam, who is a type of Him who was to come.- 15 But the free gift is not like the transgression. For if by the transgression of the one the many died, much more did the grace of God and the gift by the grace of the one Man, Jesus Christ, abound to the many.- 16 The gift is not like that which came through the one who sinned- for on the one hand the judgment arose from one transgression resulting in condemnation, but on the other hand the free gift arose from many transgressions resulting in justification.- 17 For if by the transgression of the one, death reigned through the one, much more those who receive the abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness will reign in life through the One, Jesus Christ.
When it comes to our identity, Paul tells us we have to answer this question- Are we identifying with Adam or Christ---But how does the Law of Moses relate to the grace of Christ-
16 The gift is not like that which came through the one who sinned- for on the one hand the judgment arose from one transgression resulting in condemnation, but on the other hand the free gift arose from many transgressions resulting in justification.-17 For if by the transgression of the one, death reigned through the one, much more those who receive the abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness will reign in life through the One, Jesus Christ.-18 So then as through one transgression there resulted condemnation to all men, even so through one act of righteousness there resulted justification of life to all men.-19 For as through the one man's disobedience the many were made sinners, even so through the obedience of the One the many will be made righteous.
There is a number of phrases surrounding death that have become common in our culture. Some are close to truth, but many don't even come close to the mark when it comes to truth and thus are not helpful for the survivors. We do not know why God takes any one person at any given time, but we do know why- SIN.
When it comes to religion there are 4 questions any religion needs to answer- How did we get here- What is our purpose- Why is there evil- What is our destiny- The Greeks answered the question about evil with a myth, Pandora's box. This myth is strikingly similar to the Biblical account of the Fall of man. Pandora finds the Spirit of Hope while Adam is granted the gift of Hope in glory. It is said no one can survive without hope. In this passage Paul expounds on this hope.
Negotiation peace between 2 nations can be difficult to broach. Issues to peace can b filled with emotional historical scars and open wounds not yet healed with divides that cannot willingly be torn down. Yet if reconciliation can indeed be accomplished it is an awesome marvel to behold. We as sinners stand in need of an even greater reconciliation with our God. Paul leads us through this marvelous truth in this section.
Security these days, concerns of personal safety and financial security fills most people's daily thoughts and drives ambitions. However, few people are concerned about the security of their soul. Paul argues in this text, that for the believer this is most important. If we are Justified by faith in Christ, our salvation is completely secure. Therefore believers have peace with God, we stand in confidence in Grace and exult in the hope of God.
Attempting to convert a Jew to Christianity has come under fire by both Jews and some Christians. However, Paul shows us that from the example of Abraham the doctrine of justification by faith alone is not a new invention. Paul demonstrates that the Christian faith connects to and compares with the faith of Abraham.
George Washington is lovingly referred to as the father of America. There are many myths that have been passed on about this influential man in history, but also was instrumental in establishing the country and its policies. He also was a role-model. Like Washington, Abraham was a role model for the Jewish people throughout the centuries. But Abraham was a spiritual model for saving faith.
Descendants of the offspring of Abraham, Jews, Arabs, Palestinians, all contend over the same holy sites and land claiming ownership by virtue of their ancestry. But who is correct- Paul addresses this in this passage of Romans.
Most Americans believe they are sinners, buy most Americans also believe this can be out-weighed by their own good deeds or religious practices. They believe they are basically good at heart...and so is everyone else. They trust in their own works to get them a place in heaven. Paul here shows that this is a false system to trust in, rather we must trust in Christ alone.
Both Jew and Gentile must stand as righteous in order to be accepted by God in the final Judgment. How is that righteousness obtained- By keeping the law or trusting the Messiah- Are we justified by grace rather than works- How can a sinful human being stand before the Judgment seat of the Creator and receive a verdict of -NOT GUILTY--
For Jews the law of Moses functioned as their moral and political constitution and compass. If any practice could not be reconciled to the Law it needed to be condemned. The Old covenant or testament has now been replaced and fulfilled by a newer covenant ushered in by the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, the last Adam.
The World War 2 holocaust in Europe caused much soul searching on the part of both Jews and Christians and traditional belief systems were challenged. On theological point of doctrine on the table was justification by faith. Paul tells us for both Jew and Christian it is absolutely essential.
Logos for businesses need to be eye-catching, easily remembered and recognizable for the organizations they represent. For Christianity, the Cross in its infamy and glory has become the -logo- for all eternity. But what is the meaning of this symbol and why is it necessary- What exactly did it accomplish-
Words in language come and go, are re-invented and become obsolete. What happens when biblical words are dropped from the vocabulary of the Church- Can we substitute or change their meaning- When we lose important biblical words or change their meaning or their importance we lose the ultimate message of the Gospel.
In 1980 at Lake Placid, New York, the greatest upset in Olympic history took place on the hockey ice between the Soviet Union and the U.S. Against all odds the American youngsters, the underdog, won the gold medal. Their story became known as the Miracle on Ice. An even greater miracle happened which upset the universe, an earthshaking event significant and supernatural, some 2000 years ago in Judah. Jesus really rose from the dead.
Wouldn't it be nice if we had someone who could give us what we needed everyday- At the end of our lives, in the final days, we will need something extraordinary that only God can supply. We will need righteousness. That righteousness must come apart from the Law, found only in Christ, to all who believe and it is given as a free gift.